Casa Manila
Located in the heart of Intramuros in Manila City, Casa Manila is a museum and heritage house that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Filipino elite during the Spanish colonial period. While it is a faithful replica, not an original structure, Casa Manila authentically re-creates a 19th-century bahay na bato (stone house), complete with period furniture and architectural details.
This well-preserved attraction is part of the Intramuros tours and Manila City tours, making it a favorite among history buffs and first-time visitors alike. It’s also included in Guided Walking Tours of Intramuros Old Town and shore excursions such as Manila heritage tour for cruise passengers.
What to Expect
Casa Manila is housed within the Plaza San Luis Complex, just across from San Agustin Church, another Intramuros landmark. It has three floors filled with antique furniture and period décor sourced from Chinese, European, and Filipino traditions.
Ground Floor: Visitors enter through the Puerta Principal into the Zaguan, where horse-drawn carruajes once dropped off guests. The Patio is a granite courtyard with a fountain surrounded by flowering plants and open windows. The Caballeriza (carriage house) reflects the status of colonial-era elites.
Second Floor: This level features the Oficina (office), Biblioteca (library), and Caja de Hierro (safe), along with Dormitorios (bedrooms) for daytime siestas. The layout showcases the importance of work, leisure, and rest in colonial Filipino households.
Third Floor: The Antesala (anteroom) leads to the Sala (living room), a spacious, hardwood-floored area for entertaining guests, enjoying snacks, or playing music. The floor also houses a Comedor (dining room) with lavish glassware and porcelain, a family Oratorio (prayer room), and additional bedrooms.
How to Get There
Casa Manila is located at Plaza San Luis Complex, corner of Real and General Luna Streets in Intramuros, Manila City. Visitors can get there via jeepney, taxi, or ride-hailing apps. The site is also included in many layover tours for travelers who want a quick dive into Philippine history.
Most Intramuros tours begin or pass through Casa Manila, and it’s one of the stops on the popular bamboo bike tours that explore the walled city. For those arriving by cruise, you can book a Manila heritage tour with cruise port pickup that includes Casa Manila along with other top Manila tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
Casa Manila is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Plan your visit during weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Weekdays also offer cooler weather for walking around the walled city of Intramuros.
Entrance Fee
A small entrance fee is required to access Casa Manila. Discounts are available for students, teachers, and senior citizens. Tickets can be purchased on-site or as part of Intramuros tours.
