Top 19 Things to Do and Places to Visit in Manila

1. Travel Back in Time at Intramuros      

Intramuros, known as the "Walled City," is the oldest district and historic core of Manila. Intramuros tours are a must-try for history buffs because there are so many things to do in Intramuros. 

This iconic Manila landmark is actually a walled area within the modern city. It was the seat of government and political power when the Philippines was still under Spanish rule. 

Intramuros is Manila's only district where travelers can see complete architectural remnants of the Spanish Era.  A day trip to Intramuros is enough for you to go sightseeing in this well-preserved historical attraction.

Wander along paved roads and visit historical monuments and sculptures. You can even join a bambike tour (bamboo bike), try riding a kalesa, or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage experience. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Intramuros:

 

Fort Santiago

This is one of the country's oldest Hispanic stone castles. In 1951, Fort Santiago became a national historical monument. You can join a sightseeing and walking trip to explore this attraction.

Manila Cathedral

This is the religious center of the Archdiocese of Manila. It was the location of the Spanish Archbishop of Manila, who had jurisdiction over the whole archipelago during the Spanish colonial period.

San Agustin Church

It's one of the Philippines’ four Baroque Churches recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many locals visit here daily to pray and contemplate. 

Plaza de Roma

It's one of two significant squares in Intramuros. The plaza is regarded as the area's center of trade during the colonial past. 

Casa Manila

It's a rebuilding of a 19th-century Spanish colonial house that dates back to 1981. Each chamber at Casa Manila is furnished in ancient style with wooden furniture, ornaments, and works of art. It's a tourist spot often included in a walking tour of Manila.

Baluarte de San Diego

This was built from a circular tower that was initially intended to protect Manila during the Spanish times. This spot is where you can revel in nature, surrounded by colorful flowers and tiny trees.

Bahay Tsinoy

This building houses the Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage Center, a museum that documents the history, lives, and contributions of Chinese ethnicity in Philippine life and history.

2. Visit Rizal Park

Located in the heart of Manila is Rizal Park, a landmark full of historical significance. The park is a homage to the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal.

He was a doctor and novelist who was shot by firing squad at this site on December 30, 1896, on charges of fostering local rebellion against the Spanish government. 

Rizal Park features monuments, squares and gardens, large stadiums, observatories, an open-air concert hall, sound and light theaters, shops, food kiosks, playgrounds, and many fountains.

The park is split into three areas, starting with the 16-hectare Agrifina Circle adjacent to Taft Avenue. It's where the Department of Tourism and the National Museum of Anthropology are situated.

Then there's the northeastern segment; followed by the 22-hectare park extending down to Roxas Boulevard. Lastly, the central section finishing at the southwestern part contains Burnham Green. Join a Rizal Park tour with Intramuros to get a full experience of this destination.

3. Explore the National Museum Complex

The National Museum of the Philippines has several sections included in National Museum trips: Art, Anthropology, Natural History, and the Planetarium.

All are within the same building complex and are home to permanent collections representing the various facets of art, culture, and history of the country. Joining a National Museum tour will take you around the best museums in the area.

National Museum of Fine Arts

The collection here contains both classical and contemporary Filipino paintings and sculptures. The famous paintings by the Philippine revolutionary artist Juan Luna, including The Spoliarium, are a must-see. 

National Museum of Anthropology

It features collections of artifacts of Anthropology and Archaeology. You can also have a look at the old Philippine script called "Baybayin," as well as a collection of cultural memories from native people throughout the nation.

National Museum of Natural History

This museum presents the rich biodiversity of the country, including Lolong's skeleton, which used to be the world's largest caught crocodile and placed in captivity. Another highlight is The Tree of Life, a glass elevator and a canopy-inspired roof.

National Planetarium

It contains astronomic displays of celestial bodies and their real-life projections. They also offer displays, presentations, and demonstrations for travelers who would like to have a unique planetarium experience.

 

4. Have a Food Trip at Binondo        

Image by Moneymax

Binondo is a lively and historic Manila site. It was founded in 1594 and is considered to be the world's first Chinatown. Like the other Chinatowns, tours to Binondo restaurants are fun as the town is made up of tight and vibrant alleys with must-try foodie spots. 

It is packed with hole-in-the-wall joints, traditional bakeries, and budget-friendly streetside shops. One of the best ways to see its beauty is by trying out a guided tour in Binondo.

 

 

Binondo Church 

Since its construction in 1596, it has been an iconic location in Chinatown. It was built for Chinese colonists who became Christians. Its sponsor is the Philippine martyr of Chinese origin, San Lorenzo Ruiz.

Mass generally takes place in English, Tagalog, and Chinese in this church. The church is also called the San Lorenzo Ruiz Basilica Minor.

Escolta 

This used to house the stores of Chinese merchants during the galleon trade in Manila.

Food Trip 

You can't leave without feasting on authentic Chinese delicacies such as dumplings, frozen scallions, lumpia, oyster cake, kiampong, and stir fry tofu via a Binondo food trip. 

5. Shop Until You Drop in Manila Stores

Shopping is one of the most enjoyable activities in Manila because of the multitude of malls here. Here are some of the best places to shop in the metro: 

Divisoria

This is a shopping mall in Tondo, Manila. It is renowned for its low-price stores and its various manufacturing facilities. It's often combined with a shopping tour in Binondo Chinatown.

Quiapo

There are a lot of shops in Quiapo. For gadgets, you can go to Raon and Hidalgo Street. For arts and handicrafts, you can go to Palanca Street and Plaza Miranda. Go to Quinta Market and Carriedo Street for other necessities.

Baclaran

They have a big market. You can look through so many shops and stores. The stores have a variety of products, from very affordable to more costly.

Greenhills Shopping Center

It's a charming shopping mall and has a mix of thrift stalls and significant shops. There are also excellent restaurants around.

Tiendesitas

Photo by Tiendesitas

This place in Pasig City has it all, from indigenous cuisine and fashion to furniture, antiquities, arts and crafts. Tiendesitas has shops from over 450 merchants, most of whom offer specialty goods, mainly from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

SM Mall of Asia

SM Mall of Asia or MOA is particularly famous for both domestic and international visitors. It is the biggest shopping center in the Philippines and has several establishments. It's often part of a bargain shopping experience in Manila.

SM Megamall

It's the third-largest shopping mall in the Philippines. Aside from their various stores in the different buildings, they have their own Mega Fashion Hall.

Greenbelt

The establishment combines high-end boutiques, restaurants, shopping amenities, leisure areas, and entertainment halls.

6. Pray at Quiapo Church

One of the top religious and historic landmarks in Manila is Quiapo Church. The church is home to the Black Nazarene, a miraculous image of Christ, and one of the most known monuments in Manila. In 1767, Quiapo was the first to bring the life-size model sculpted from ebony.

The façade of Quiapo Church, built in the baroque style, stands out from both sides with its rolling towers. A third of its column twists close to the foundation, while the bottom part has a soft surface.

The top of the four-story bell towers is adorned with balustrades and enormous scrolls. It’s a popular church included in most pilgrimage tours in the country.

In the early 1980s, a four-foil window in the center of the front of the church was screened, and a picture of the pope's crossed keys and tiara was substituted. Only the facade and the transept dome maintained the classic architecture with its latest refurbishment.

7. Hop-On Board the Unique Modes of Transport   

There are distinctive transport modes that you can use to discover Manila. Jeepneys and tricycles are two of the most common transportation vehicles used by locals. 

Jeepney

The jeepneys or jeeps were initially produced from U.S. military jeeps left over from the Second World War. These are renowned for their colorful ornaments that showcase Pinoy architecture and pop culture.

Tricycle

The tricycles are built with the construction of a sidecar and a motorcycle. These public utility vehicles either follow a specific route or are like taxis available for rent. Passenger tricycles may accommodate up to six or more passengers except for the driver.

MRT/LRT

There are three train routes in Manila. LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3 also reach nearby cities, including Quezon City and Pasay.

8. Enjoy a Visit to The Ocean Park

Photo by Manila Ocean Park

Inaugurated in March 2008, the park is famous for the Oceanarium, which has around 14,000 creatures belonging to around 277 different species native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

The park is also highly informative and instructional, especially for sightseeing activities.

9. Spend a Day at Roxas Boulevard

Roxas Boulevard in Manila is a famous street. The boulevard, which extends along Manila Bay's coasts, is well-known for its landscapes and coconut trees.

It has become famous for its country club, restaurants, eateries, commercial properties, parks, and gardens. It's also the location of the CCP Complex, Baywalk, Star City, and the BSP Money Museum.

Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex

The CCP Complex is an 88-hectare sport, cultural, and art playground. The National Theater, Folk Arts Theater, CCP Library and Archive, Philippine International Convention Center, and Manila Film Center, can be found in the complex.

Baywalk

It's a promenade facing Manila Bay. The Baywalk is a two-kilometer path that starts at the US Embassy,  and is close to Rizal Park and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, just past Manila Yacht Club.

BSP Money Museum

The BSP Money Museum, located in central Bangko in the Philippines, shows the development of the Filipino economy and its past.

The displays are chronologically arranged from the Pre-Hispanic Period, Spanish and Revolutionary Periods to the American, Japanese, and present-day Republics.

The museum is full of elegant barter coats, gold rocks, gold barter chains, old paper money, envelope bills, and silver banknotes.

10. Marvel at the Malacañang Palace

Malacañang Palace is the official building and principal department of the President of the Philippines. It's connected to Mendiola Street in San Miguel, Manila. 

Malacañang includes many mansions and departments, primarily built in a neoclassical style. Among the many heritage trips in the country, visiting Malacañang Palace is one of the most recommended.

Originally built as a private household home, Malacañang has been transformed into a magnificent Spanish colonial home. It consists primarily of wooden buildings complete with courtyards and azoteas.

Visiting Malacañang Palace is a great opportunity to learn more about its contribution to the country’s history.

11. Explore the Modern Cities of Manila

One of the most exciting things to do in Manila is to visit its modern business districts. What better way to discover its relevance than joining a modern Manila trip? 

There's much to learn from the remnants of the past and how it's incorporated into the present, which is why it's also great to join a Manila tour with modern and historical attractions. After all, the Philippines is a progressive country. Here are some of the modern cities of Manila you can visit during your trip:

Makati

In addition to being one of the significant financial, academic, and business institutions in all of Asia, it is the economic core of the Philippines.

Bonifacio Global City

More known as BGC, it's a leisure district in Metro Manila. Besides the tall buildings, you'll also see high-end retail stores here. You can dine in world-class hotels and restaurants and be amused by several activities.

Taft Avenue

It's primarily considered to be a component of the University Belt, with several of Manila's leading colleges and universities nearby.

This, plus its closeness to primary forms of travel, provides Taft Avenue, the youthful atmosphere and accessibility it is known for.

12. Get Artsy at Cubao Expo

Cubao Expo has housed aesthetic institutions, art galleries, thrift stores, and shoe shops for several years. One may lose oneself among vintage comics, knick-knacks, and unique finds in this place.

Cubao Expo also serves as a lifestyle center. Here you will discover a handful of options for lunch or dinner. The place also hosts events such as poetry reading, book sales, concerts, and different kinds of conventions.

13. Visit Paco Park and Cemetery

Paco Park is a leisure and nature park that was constructed by Dominicans in the Spanish colonial era. It is on the main street of General Luna in Paco, Manila and the eastern part of Padre Faura Street.

During the reign of President Diosdado Macapagal, the reserve was transformed into a national park in 1966. Since then, the park has been progressively rebuilt and has been a government beach and community promenade.

14. Enjoy the Nightlife 

Filipinos love to party! With their passion for singing and dancing coupled with excellent humor, you're bound to encounter some exciting and enjoyable events when visiting Manila's hot nightspots.

There are various places throughout Manila, Makati, and Quezon City, where you can encounter all types of bars and restaurants to eat, drink, and chill at. Naturally, it's based on whether you want something lowkey or a full-on club scene. Here are some locations you should visit:

Poblacion

Photo by Kartel Rooftop Bar

This is Makati's famous nightlife district, with a wide variety of beautiful hotels and bars to let individuals unwind from stress. Visiting this area is one of the fun activities in Makati.

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

BGC is a region renowned for its high-quality lounges and cocktail clubs. Whether you spend the evening in one of the super bars in the area or want to relax after a hard day at your job, you will undoubtedly discover one that suits your plan.

Tomas Morato

Photo by Taggo Bar

This is a famous place for amusement. There are many fine establishments and cafes along this street, including discotheques, karaoke joints, and comedy clubs. 

15. Have a Gastronomic Food trip

One of the best things to do in Manila is to have a gastronomic adventure, and what better way try local cuisine than going on food trips! Try street food such as the infamous balut.

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• Read our article on the best buffets in Manila

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There are also fish balls, kwek-kwek, kikiam, taho, and sorbetes that are generally marketed in tiny shops.

Try halo-halo, a famous Filipino dessert of shaved ice and evaporated milk, with several other components, for a delicious snack. Aside from Binondo, you can have a local food trip here:

Maginhawa Street

Several local restaurants started on this 2.2-kilometer road as hole-in-the-wall food places before becoming increasingly popular due to locals loving the vibrant and trendy atmosphere.

Jolly Jeep

This is the name of Makati's famous food trucks. They're affordable and found within area points in Makati. Local favorites are Sisig from Rada Street, Mang Lirio's from Palanca Street, and Bulalo and Pares from Esteban Street.

Kapitolyo

This is an area renowned for its charming and eclectic vibe. Kapitolyo has two primary roads. East Drive features cheaper, more inexpensive establishments, while West Drive offers more intimate date places and unique events.

16. Join the Weekend Markets

If you get excited about shopping for local products, an excellent activity is to join a city excursion at a weekend market in Manila!

Sample a combination of delicious meals and Philippine cuisine, observe local entrepreneurs selling products, and discover unique things visiting a weekend market, like those listed below:

Salcedo Market

This weekend market starts at 6 AM on Saturdays. There are delicacies from all over the world so that you can enjoy distinct global flavors as well as local culinary delights.

Legazpi Market

This market is available only at 7 AM on Sundays. What's unique about this market is its dry goods stalls. You can purchase many artsy items, from pictures to hand-crafted products.

Mercato Centrale

Photo by Mercato Centrale

This food night market is available during scheduled evenings in Makati, Pasig, Intramuros, and Rizal Park. You'll discover an enormous range of meals and snacks you can consume. Wash it down with your choice of drink.

17. Visit Fun Modern Museums

Modern museums should be on your list if you're the type of traveler who wants to experience something new. It's a way for curators to present artwork in a different form. Here are some museum trips you can try in Manila:

The Dessert Museum

Photo by The Dessert Museum

This is a great spot to see desserts, eat them, and take unique pictures as well. Buying an admission ticket to the Dessert Museum is worth it as it's different from other museums.

Lakbay Museo (Permanently Closed starting July 2022)

It was recognized as the first cultural interactive museum that showcased different cultures and tribes in the Philippines. A Lakbay Museo admission ticket brings you on an unforgettable journey through the island via displays and activities that catch the essence of Filipino society as a whole.

Art in Island

Art in Island, one of the world's largest animated 3D art museums, enables visitors to take beautiful photos with wall-to-floor sculptures. The employees can take your image as you give your best poses in each of the 12 areas.

Upside Down

If you like to take pictures in a unique manner, this museum will definitely surprise you. Discover creativity within yourself when you transform your pictures upside down.

Mind Museum

Find out how science works in our everyday life with a trip to The Mind Museum. The Mind Museum is ideal for children and children at heart, with more than 250 educational displays displayed in five interconnected tales of Atom, Earth, Life, the Universe, and Technology.

18. Explore University Campuses

The Philippines doesn't fall short of beautiful universities. These locations are not only home to academic institutions but are also notable Manila destinations. 

The University of the Philippines-Diliman

This campus has a vast area of 493 hectares and is wealthy in history and culture. On Sundays, the over-100-year-old State University is a place for Sunday walkers, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

The University Academic Oval is a circular street lined with buildings with different architecture and shaded by a canopy of acacia trees. The University of the Philippines also has its own UP Cine Adarna next to the UP Theater and the UP Carillon tower.

The University of Santo Tomas

Photo by the Univesity of Santo Tomas

Known as one of Asia's oldest universities, UST has a wealthy heritage visible on its campus. There is even a magnificent museum full of memorabilia and pictures here.

19. Join a Day Trip from Manila

After enjoying tours in Manila, you can venture out to nearby provinces. Whether you're a traveler wanting to discover more places beyond the metro or a local who wants to take some time off from the city, these are some great options:

Corregidor

If you want to discover the remnants of the historic past, add this to your travel list. It is a national sanctuary commemorating the struggle of US and Philippine forces during World War II against an overwhelming number of Japanese forces.

It's best to join a Corregidor experience to fully immerse yourself in this breathtaking piece of history.

Tagaytay

It is renowned for being a place for excellent restaurants and picturesque tourist spots. If you want to have a relaxing day with your friends and family, make add several activities to your Tagaytay experience.

Taal Lake

This is the Philippines' third-largest lake. Taal Volcano, one of the smallest active volcanoes in the globe, is inside it. Make sure to enjoy and take photos of this fantastic destination.

Mt. Pinatubo 

One of Manila's most breathtaking trips is walking along the picturesque Mount Pinatubo and admiring the panoramic perspective. You will see how mother nature turned a tragedy into something lovely again when you join a Mount Pinatubo excursion.

Manila hosts a fascinating culture and is one of the fast-growing tourist spots in the globe.

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• Book local flights to Manila:
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It offers so many great things for both locals and internationals alike, such as sightseeing tours, food and culinary trips, museum-hopping excursions, biking trips, historical and heritage immersions, adventure and nature park visits, and hiking excursions.

Start planning your trip to Manila now! Explore Manila tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary for a complete and hassle-free travel experience.