Information about Escolta Street

Escolta Street

Escolta Street in Binondo, Manila, has a long tradition of being the Philippines' market and cultural center. It began in the late 16th century as a concentration of immigrant traders, mostly from Fujian, China, during the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade.

Binondo, especially its main thoroughfare, Calle Escolta, eventually became a place of people and cultures, with Chinese apothecaries coexisting with international drugstores, and Hispanic-led businesses establishing their headquarters there in the 1800s. From its beginnings, it expanded over the years, eventually becoming the country's premier central business, art, culture, and lifestyle district from the turn of the twentieth century to the 1960s.

Escolta is now surrounded with a combination of pop-up stores, craft beer cafés, street festivals, and a lot of artistic spirit. 

How to get there

Aside from taking a jeepney or a taxi, the quickest route to Escolta Street is to take the LRT 1 Central Station. Drop off at Carriedo station, then walk along the old BPI building to Sta. Cruz Church. Escolta Street is on the right, opposite the main entrance of Sta. Cruz Church.

Best time to visit

You can visit Escolta Street anytime of day.