Manila

Manila Travel Guide

The Philippine capital, where Spanish colonial Intramuros and gleaming modern malls sit side by side. Fort Santiago and Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, the historic atmosphere of Rizal Park, and the modern skyline of Bonifacio Global City (BGC) show Manila's many facets. Manila Bay sunsets and the rich flavors of traditional adobo are travel highlights. Recommended for travelers who want to experience Philippine history and urban culture together.

Essential Manila Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Manila

★ 4.5

Intramuros

Intramuros is a walled city built in the 16th century during Spanish colonial rule, forming the historic heart of Manila. Major landmarks crowd its streets, including Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and the UNESCO-listed San Agustín Church. Heavily damaged during World War II, it has since been restored, and bamboo-bike tours along the walls are a popular way to explore. Fort Santiago admission PHP 75. Walkable within Intramuros.

HoursFort 08:00-18:00; walled area open 24 hours

LocationIntramuros, Manila

TipsA bamboo-bike tour or kalesa (horse carriage) ride makes touring easy. Sunset views over Manila Bay from atop the walls are stunning.

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★ 4.4

Rizal Park (Luneta Park)

Rizal Park (Luneta Park) is a 58-hectare urban park in central Manila, marking the historic site where independence hero Jose Rizal was executed in 1896. An honor guard stands at the Rizal Monument around the clock. Within the park are a Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, the National Museum complex, and a planetarium. Sunday mornings fill with locals exercising and families picnicking. Park entry free (some facilities charge). A 10-minute walk from Intramuros.

HoursDaily 05:00-21:00 (free park entry)

LocationErmita, Manila

TipsCombine with Intramuros for an efficient half-day itinerary. Don't miss the National Museum (free entry) right next to the park.

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★ 4.4

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is Manila's newest business and commercial district, redeveloped from a former military base. Clean streets and sleek skyscrapers set it apart. High Street and Bonifacio High Street are packed with international restaurants, rooftop bars, and trendy cafes, while large murals and street art dot the area for a walkable vibe. The Mind Museum (science museum) and Venice Grand Canal Mall are also nearby. About 15 minutes by Grab from Makati.

HoursOpen 24 hours (individual shop hours vary)

LocationTaguig, Metro Manila

TipsVisit on weekend evenings for outdoor markets and live music. Easily combined with a half-day trip to Makati's Greenbelt Mall.

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★ 4.5

Fort Santiago

Built in 1593 by Spain to guard Manila Bay, Fort Santiago sits within Intramuros at the mouth of the Pasig River. The cell where Jose Rizal spent his final hours before his 1896 execution is preserved, and bronze footprints trace his last walk to the firing ground. The Rizal Museum displays his belongings and original manuscripts, offering insight into the Philippine independence movement. Admission PHP 75. At the northern tip of Intramuros.

HoursDaily 08:00-22:00

LocationIntramuros, Manila

TipsRead Rizal's poem 'Mi último adiós' at the museum. It's the entry point of Intramuros — a great start to a walking tour.

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★ 4.6

Manila Cathedral

First built in 1581 and rebuilt eight times after earthquakes and wars, Manila Cathedral (the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception) is a symbol of Philippine Catholicism. The current eighth incarnation, completed in 1958, features a grand Romanesque facade, stained glass, and a 4,500-pipe organ. At the heart of Intramuros, it forms a key pilgrimage circuit with Fort Santiago and San Agustín Church. Free admission (outside Mass times). In central Intramuros.

HoursDaily 07:00-18:00 (except during Mass)

LocationIntramuros, Manila

TipsEntry is limited during Mass — check the schedule. Pair with nearby San Agustín Church (UNESCO World Heritage).

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★ 4.7

San Agustin Church

Begun in 1571 and completed in 1607, San Agustín is the Philippines' oldest stone church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1993). The Baroque interior dazzles with elaborate trompe-l'œil ceiling paintings and 14 side chapels, while the attached monastery operates as a museum of religious art and colonial-era artifacts. The only Intramuros church to survive earthquakes and wars intact, it embodies the essence of Philippine Catholic heritage. Museum admission PHP 200. Inside Intramuros, a 5-minute walk from Manila Cathedral.

HoursDaily 08:00-18:00

LocationIntramuros, Manila

TipsDon't miss the colonial religious art in the museum. Weddings are frequent here — you might get lucky with exterior photos.

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★ 4.3

Binondo Chinatown

Established in 1594 by the Spanish colonial government for Catholic-converted Chinese residents, Binondo is the world's oldest Chinatown. Narrow alleys hide 400-year-old Chinese bakeries, hopia shops, siomai noodle houses, and the Binondo Church (Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz), making it Manila's top destination for food tours. Lunar New Year fills the streets with dragon dances and firecrackers. Free to roam. About 15 minutes by kalesa from Intramuros.

Hours24 hours (shops 08:00-22:00)

LocationBinondo, Manila

TipsA Binondo food tour visits 8-10 spots efficiently. Don't miss the Art Deco buildings on Escolta Street.

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★ 4.5

Manila Bay Sunset

Long sung by 19th-century poets and painters, Manila Bay's sunset is celebrated as one of the world's most beautiful. Walk along Roxas Boulevard, west of Rizal Park, or the Manila Bay promenade to watch the sky burn crimson and violet — completely free. The nearby Cultural Center Complex (CCP) and MOA Baywalk are also popular vantage points. Free. A 5-minute walk from Rizal Park, or via the MOA complex.

Hours17:30-19:00 (varies seasonally)

LocationRoxas Boulevard, Manila

TipsArrive an hour before sunset to claim a spot. MOA Baywalk has food courts — dine while watching the sun go down.

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Things to Do in Manila

Tour

Bamboo Bike Intramuros Tour

Tour the 16th-century walled city of Intramuros on a bamboo bicycle. Visit Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church with a guide.

Price PHP 500-800Duration About 2-3 hours

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Tour

Manila Bay Sunset Cruise

Cruise Manila Bay on a yacht or dinner boat for the world-famous Manila Bay sunset. Drinks and snacks served while the sky turns orange over the water.

Price PHP 1,500-3,000Duration About 2-3 hours

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Culture

BGC Art Walking Tour

Walk through BGC streets admiring large-scale murals and street art by Filipino and international artists. Stop at trendy cafes along the way.

Price FreeDuration About 1.5-2 hours

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Culture

Binondo Food Tour

Walk Binondo's alleys — the world's oldest Chinatown — with a guide, sampling hopia, siomai, kuya ma, and kampang at 8-10 famous stops.

Price PHP 1,500-2,500Duration About 3-4 hours

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Tour

Kalesa (Horse Carriage) Tour

Ride a kalesa, a Spanish colonial horse carriage, through Intramuros and Binondo. The driver doubles as a guide for about 1 hour.

Price PHP 500-800/hourDuration About 1 hour

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Nature

Roxas Boulevard Walk

Walk Roxas Boulevard along Manila Bay to enjoy the world-famous sunset for free. The promenade extends to MOA Baywalk and the CCP.

Price FreeDuration About 1-2 hours

🎟️ Check prices & book →

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Must-Try Food in Manila

Adobo

🍱 Traditional

Chicken braised in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic — the national dish of the Philippines. About PHP 100-200 per serving. Try authentic versions at Filipino restaurants in the Makati and BGC areas.

Halo-Halo

🍰 Dessert

Halo-Halo: a Filipino shaved-ice dessert layered with beans, jelly, ice cream, and ube (purple yam). About PHP 80-150 per cup. Razon's is a well-known chain.

Sisig

🍱 Traditional

Sisig: chopped pork face meat sizzled on a hot plate and topped with egg - a classic Filipino bar snack. About PHP 100-200 per serving. Try the original near Intramuros.

Balut

🍢 Street Food

Balut: a Filipino street snack of a boiled, fertilized duck egg — a true test of adventurous eating. About PHP 20-30 each. Found at night markets in Quiapo and Binondo.

Pancit

🍱 Traditional

Pancit: stir-fried rice or wheat noodles with vegetables and meat — a Filipino celebration dish symbolizing long life. About PHP 80-150 per serving. Binondo's Pancit Malabon is famous.

Lechon Kawali

🍱 Traditional

Lechon Kawali: deep-fried pork belly cubes with shatteringly crispy skin. About PHP 200-350 per serving. Manam Restaurant in Makati is a top spot.

Ube Cheesecake

🍰 Dessert

Ube Cheesecake: a vivid purple cheesecake made with Philippine ube (purple yam) — Instagram-famous. About PHP 150-250 per slice. Try at BGC cafes and The Cake Club.

Manila Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Manila?

The dry season (December to May) is best. Typhoons are possible during the rainy season (June to November), so plan accordingly.

How much does it cost to travel in Manila?

Daily budget around $30-70 (lodging $15-35; food $7-15; transport and sightseeing $7-15).

How do I get around in Manila?

From Ninoy Aquino International Airport, a Grab ride to the city centre takes 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. Grab is the easiest way to get around. SIM cards (Globe/Smart) available at the airport (about PHP 300-500/week). Cash is the main payment method; malls accept cards. Tipping is customary, usually around 10%.

Do I need a visa to visit Manila?

Korean passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 30 days.

Is Manila safe for tourists?

Tourist areas are generally safe, but avoid quiet alleys and late-night walks. Keep an eye on your belongings.

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