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What to Do In Manila

Food, Travel, Shopping, and Culture 

The capital of the Philippines is a megacity, comprising 16 cities with three main hubs: Manila, one of the world’s most densely populated city centres; Quezon City, the government centre and home to world-class universities; and Makati, the business district.

This metropolis offers top-notch shopping, performing and visual arts, cultural immersion, and rest and recreation. It is also conveniently located near other popular destinations, such as the lakeshore towns of Laguna de Bai , known for exquisite arts and crafts.

• The Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and the Light Rail Transit (LRT) are a good way to traverse the main Epifanio de los Santos highway. In some districts of the city,  riding the jeepney , a popular and affordable public transit for locals,  is a good option as well. Rental cars are a good option for those who like to drive and avoid public transit. The mobile app, GrabTaxi allows you to book a taxi with your smartphone, and avoid waiting hailing waiting to hail one on the street. Or you can use a chauffeured car rental, so you can relax and enjoy moving to your destinations without any worries.
• The capital of the Philippines is a megacity, comprising 16 cities with three main hubs: Manila, one of the world’s most densely populated city centers; Quezon City, the government center and home to world-class universities; and Makati, the business district.
• In this metropolis offers top-notch shopping, performing and visual arts, cultural immersion, and rest and recreation. It is also a convenient jump-off point to nearby destinations — such as the lakeshore towns of Laguna de Bai known for their exquisite arts and crafts — and, as the country’s transport hub, to the rest of the archipelago.

PLACES TO VISIT IN MANILA

• Intramuros is the oldest and most historic place in Manila. It is encircled by high, thick, stone walls and contains moats, reminiscent of an old castle. In fact the name Intramuros translates to “within the walls,” which is where you will find the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Rizal Park is a social hub for the elite of Manila society. Walk through its lush gardens and take in the beautiful sculptures, visit event venues hosting a range of entertainment, and admire the work of artists featured in photo and art exhibits. 
• Manila’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in the world. The area, referred to as Binondo, used to be the centre of commerce, business, and finance. Its flea markets offer great shopping bargains, and the exotic delicacies are a must-try. The historic Binondo Church is also situated here.
• Manila has several museums that are worth visiting, including the National Museum of the Philippines, the Museum of the Filipino People, and the Metropolitan Art Museum. If you prefer something more interactive, go to Art in Island, where you can photograph yourself to appear in the featured artwork. For something more science-focused, visit the Mind Museum and interact with the displays. And to learn more about Manila’s social history, visit the Quezon City Experience.
• If you love the arts and would like to catch a musical, theatrical or dance performance, the Cultural Center of The Philippines has year-round programming that will suit everyone’s tastes.

WHERE TO ENJOY MANILA NIGHTLIFE

• If you enjoy being out after dark you’ll love Manila’s vibrant nightlife. The quality of these nocturnal hot spots is so good that they are consistently recognized in yearly Top 100 Clubs Lists worldwide. In Manila you will find exclusive clubs, lounges and premium bars in Bonifacio Global City, Makati, and in the integrated resorts in Paranaque and Pasay.
• Explore the many shops and boutiques, restaurants and diners, and the urban amphitheater found in the Bonifacio High Street, a one-kilometer stretch of road filled with things to see and do. 
• Enjoy the Kultura Filipino Dinner and Cultural show at Barbara’s, while drinking wine and craft beer served with Filipino street food.
• The Philippines has its own unique gastronomy and in Manila, you can sample all of it at its many restaurants. Traditional Filipino dishes include lechon (roasted pig), adobo (meats stewed in vinegar and spices), sinigang (sour soup), kare (oxtail stew), kinilaw (raw fish salad) and halo halo (dessert).
• Filipino street food, which includes balut (duck embryo), fishballs, and isaw (grilled chicken innards), is an alternative to dining indoors.
• Binondo Food Wok in Manila ’s Chinatown and the Makati Food Walking Tour offer great places to discover new food.
• Metro Manila’s 16 supermalls offer a variety of local and international brands. Inside,you will find everything that you would find back home: piña fabric, chocolate coated dried mango, Barako coffee, wood carvings, pearls. In addition to the usual grocery stores and cinemas you’ll find karaoke bars, gyms, clinics and maybe even a chapel.
• Greenbelt in Makati and Bonifacio Highstreet in Bonifacio Global City are the perfect places to spend an entire day shopping.
• Greenhills Shopping Center, Tiendesitas, and Market! Market! Malls are where you will find many bargains and even some unique crafts.
• World Trade Center and the SMX Convention Center host seasonal grand bazaars, so be on the lookout for the dates when they will be held.
• Manila’s weekend markets are great places to find homegrown produce and delicacies.

HOW TO GET HERE

• Fly from Canada (Non-stop from  Vancouver (YVR) and Toronto (YYZ) to Manila (MNL) via Philippine Airlines
• Fly from Canada (One-stop from YVR and YYZ) to Manila (MNL) via North America’s  Air Canada, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines; Asia’s All Nippon Airways, Air China, Asiana Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, EVA Air, Emirates Airline, Hong Kong Airlines, JAL – Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines; Middle East’s Qantas Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways; and more
• Layover in Korea, China, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan and other Asian countries

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Banaue sagada.

SEE THE BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF BANAUE AND SAGADA Get ready to traverse mountains at Banaue and Sagada, where two stunning destinations await you: the UNESCO World Heritage – listed Banaue Rice Terraces, said by legend to have been made as a stairway to the heavens, and the charming mountain town of Sagada, home to the hanging coffins and burial caves. This chilly part of the Philippines will make you forget our tropical climate for a while; have your thermal.

Departure: Check-out and depart from Banaue to Manila, or to another exciting Philippine destination.

Note: Rates are available upon request Refer to list of hotel options*

Embrace Manila’s Old-World Charm

Experience the colorful fusion of history and modern Filipino life in the bustling financial, economic, commercial and natonal capital of the Philippines. It is the best start-off point to getting anywhere in the country, and a great introducton to the naton’s historical roots.

Manila American Cemetery or Ayala Museum

Visit the largest cemetery for the fallen American military of World War II, which overlooks Laguna de Bay and distant mountains, in Fort Bonifacio. Proceed to the ayala Museumin makati, where pre-colonial treasures of the philippines and indigenous Philippines textiles are in display along with a variety of cultural and contemporary art exhibitions and workshops. Head back to your hotel and relax with a foot spa treatment and relaxing massage.

Stroll or ride a calesa round the walled city of Intramuros, the former heart of 16th century Spanish rule in Manila, and observe the well-preserved Spanish-style buildings and cobblestone streets.

Fort Santiago

Visit the centuries-old structures and the legendary holding-cell of Jose Rizal before he was sentenced to death and made to walk from Fort Santiago to Luneta, now Rizal Park, to be put to death. Look for his footsteps embossed in the pavement. Dine at Romulo Café, a restaurant created in honor of Philippine diplomat and statesman Carlos P. Romulo by his grandchildren. Unwind at the posh Salon de Ning for wine and cocktails.

Taal Lake and Volcano

Let the pilot take you across the Southern Tagalog coastline to see the majestic Taal volcano and lake as you descend to the tail-end of Cavite province.

Enjoy the lush organic flora and a luxurious healthy meal at Sonya’s Garden and take the scenic route back to Manila via a private van.

Departure: Check-out and depart from Manila homeward, or to another exciting Philippine destination.

Note: Rates are available upon request Refer to list of hotels for other accommodation options* Museums are closed on Mondays**

ADMIRE NATURE’S HANDIWORK IN PALAWAN

Accessible only from Manila or Cebu and not from island to island, Palawan is an elongated island you should not miss. With two UNESCO World Heritage sites, lush forests, breathtaking views, spectacular beaches and stunning marine wildlife under its belt, it’s no surprise that everyone says the islands of Palawan have the makings of an adventure like no other. Choose one of these three main islands of Palawan and get your sunscreen, swimsuits, and stamina ready: you’ve never seen the water this blue.

Meet-up and transfer to resort for check-in and refreshments. Afterwards, explore the exquisite Lagen island.

Departure: Check-out and depart from El Nido homeward, or to another exciting Philippine destination.

Note: Rates available upon request. Refer to list of hotel options*

Puerto Princesa

Departure: Check-out and depart from Coron homeward, or to another exciting Philippine destination.

CHASE THE SUNSETS OF BORACAY

Not only a beach capital but also a cultural experience, the most-visited island in the Philippines is only four miles long and two miles wide, but bury your feet in its powder-fine white sand beaches, swim in the crystalline blue waters, try a watersport and explore the whole strip of it and find out why everyone who’s ever gone to Boracay would want to visit again and again.

Note: • Rates are available upon request • Refer to list of hotel options*

Coming soon

LIVE LIKE LOCALS IN CEBU

Right in the middle of Visayas is Cebu, the second interna9onal gateway to the Philippines. Culturally and biologically rich, it is the country’s secondary. Although more popular as a diving and snorkeling site, Cebu is an exci9ng place to experience authen9c Filipino culture and everyday life.

Option 1: Bohol

Just one ferry ride away is the scenic island of Bohol, where a variety of natural and cultural landmarks as the Chocolate Hills, Loboc River, and the famous Philippine tarsier await you. Hop on a motorized tricycle, the Philippine version of an auto rickshaw, which someYmes is designed like a miniature jeepney, and breathe in the salty air of the seaside as you explore the city’s perimeter in the open-air transport.

Option 2: Oslob

Spend your day in Oslob, more than two hours’ drive from Cebu City. Proceed to Brgy. Tan-awan and watch the friendly whale-sharks swim among humans from your banca, an indigenous boat. Visit the heritage spots in its Municipal Heritage Park, which overlooks the brilliant blue sea: Calle Aragones, the old Spanish cuartel, baluarte and its walls and gates are a fascinaYng sight.

Relax and dine at the Bluewater Sumilon Island resort.

Option 1: Snorkel in Mactan

Put on your snorkeling gear and aqua shoes for a fun and informative snorkeling experience with a marine biologist guide who will fill you in on the diverse marine life you see underwater.

Option 2: Ralfe Gourmet Chocolate Boutique

Tablea, or unsweetened chocolate tablets, are a Philippine breakfast and snack staple. Used mainly for hot chocolate and chocolate rice porridge, tablea is distinct Filipino treat. Learn the art of traditional Philippine chocolate making at the Ralfe Gourmet Chocolate Boutique, where fermented and sun-dried Philippine cacao beans are roasted, ground and molded to create 100% cacao tablea chocolate, liquor, and other decadent products.

Option 3: Relax at the Shangri-la Mactan

Departure: Check-out and depart from Cebu homeward, or to another exciting Philippine destination.

ECO-ADVENTURE CAPITAL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Experience the best of both worlds in the Philippine’s largest city outside of Metro Manila and Luzon.

Immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature and feel at ease at the some of the most popular amenities Davao has to offer.

Get a taste of the freshest produce on the island, as it is known for being the leading exporter of fruits such as mangoes, pomeloes, bananas, coconut products, pineapples, papayas, mangosteens and cacao.

Departure: Check-out and depart from Davao homeward, or to another exciting Philippine destination.

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• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Tourist information
• 5.1 By train
• 5.2 By bus or jeepney
• 5.3 By taxi
• 5.4 By tricycle or pedicab
• 5.5 By calesa
• 6.1 Landmarks
• 6.2 Museums
• 6.4 Nature and wildlife
• 6.5.1 Spanish colonial churches
• 6.5.2 Iglesia ni Cristo Churches
• 6.6 Saint days
• 7.2 Fiestas & festivals
• 9.1 Public markets
• 9.2 Shopping centers
• 9.3 Ukay-ukay
• 10.1 Street food
• 10.2 Comfort food
• 10.3 Ambulant food
• 10.4 Breakfast
• 10.5 Restaurants
• 10.6 Fast food
• 10.7 Desserts
• 10.8 Pulutan
• 15.3 Bars and nightclubs
• 15.4 Slums and rough areas
• 15.5 Public demonstrations
• 16 Stay healthy
• 17.1 Within the metro
• 17.2 South Luzon
• 17.3 North Luzon
• 17.4 Routes

Manila ( Tagalog : Maynila ) is the capital of the Philippines and a major attraction in terms of culture and heritage in the country. Sprawling, congested and polluted will likely be the first words to enter your mind when you think of Manila but don't let that impression stop you from exploring its places of interests: its churches; its diverse and complicated culture; colonial history; gigantic malls; bustling markets; hidden architectural gems and vibrant nightlife. Take the opportunity to explore Manila and make your own personal connection with the city.

Manila is part of the huge Metro Manila metropolis which has many attractions beyond those in Manila's administrative boundaries. This article covers only the city proper.

Districts [ edit ]

Manila is distributed into 16 territorial districts , which are all original towns except one, the Port Area District. Each district is glorified through its history, culture and cuisine. This guide provides 9 districts instead for the traveller's interest.

Understand [ edit ]

The City of Manila is in the western part of Metro Manila , facing the Manila Bay. It is bordered on the west by Manila Bay, to the north by Navotas , Quezon City and Caloocan City , to the east by San Juan and Mandaluyong City and to the south by Pasay and Makati . It is the oldest part of Metro Manila and the seat of the government of the Philippines .

However, despite its historical and administrative importance, the City of Manila is not effectively the "Downtown" or "City center" of Metro Manila in the traditional sense. Metro Manila is a multipolar city, with other cities of the urban area such as Quezon City , Makati , Taguig and Parañaque rivalling or exceeding Manila in business, education, shopping, entertainment and tourism.

In contrast to other parts of the Metro area, the City of Manila is a place for travellers rather than for tourists. Even the so-called "tourist areas", such as Intramuros , Binondo , Ermita and Malate , may feel a bit gritty and chaotic, and the beauty of the city is not obvious, as World War II has wiped out much of Manila's historical architecture.

However, there's much more to Manila than meets the eye. The immaterial heritage, the unique blend of Spanish, American, Chinese and native Filipino culture, remains present, and can be felt even without going to the Intramuros historical district. The City of Manila remains the cultural centre of the Philippines, containing many of the country's best museums and cultural performances. And there are many hidden gems to be discovered, such as the colonial churches, the intricate mausoleums of the Manila Chinese Cemetery , the stunning modernist architecture of the Cultural Center of the Philippines , the fantastic food of Binondo , making Manila an "off the beaten path destination" despite being a country's capital.

History [ edit ]

For over three centuries Manila was colonized and administered by Spain which left an enduring architectural heritage throughout the Philippines, especially with respect to churches, forts and other colonial buildings which can still be seen in the ruins of Intramuros, built in the late 16th century. Manila began as a settlement on the banks of the Pasig River, and its name originates from "Maynilad," referring to the mangrove plant known as nilad , which was abundant in the area. Prior to the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, Manila was home to Muslim-Malays. In 1571, 50 years after Magellan 's visit to the islands, Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi claimed the Philippines as a colony and established Manila as its capital. Manila was also colonized by the British for two years. Manila was part of the Spanish East Indies until 1898, when the U.S. took over the Philippines after the Spanish-American War.

Manila was first sought by the Spaniards, then the Americans. The Spaniards wanted a counterbalance to the expanding Portuguese empire which had almost taken a big slice of the pie in the lucrative Spice Trade. They got it through Manila, so strategically placed between China together with the rest of Asia, and Mexico - the next closest transit point for goods from Asia to Europe.

Its location seemed a well thought out choice. Legazpi took five years after arriving in the Philippines and settling in Cebu in 1565 to mull over before deciding to finally move up north to Manila in 1571 and make it the capital of the new territory. By numbers, it shortened the traveling distance to the other side of the empire in Acapulco. Manila is also in a much easy and straighter drafting reach for sailing ships to catch the Pacific Trade Winds as they blow northeastward to Japan for Acapulco and blow precisely at San Bernardino Strait for the westward-bound return trip without being diverted any farther. Most importantly, Manila is much closer than Cebu to China.

When Mexico pushed for its independence from Spain and finally shoved her out, the Philippines' glittering importance began to dwindle due to the discontinuance of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade, cutting off the Acapulco to Vera Cruz segment and it accelerated more when the Suez Canal was opened enabling the Chinese exports to go in the opposite direction and making Singapore the most important transit hub to Europe in the region. Just a token administration was maintained in Manila since the Philippines had been confined to the doldrums as one of the unreachable and hard to maintain colonies of Spain. That obscurity lasted until a new imperialist era dawned, with countries embarked on a new competition for raw materials and market.

Netherlands, Britain, and France were already there now with Germany, lurking somewhere and ready to fill in the voids about to be vacated by waning superpowers. Germany was already sniffing its way around the Pacific Ocean like a shark smelling a kill when the US, spurred by the windfall of acquiring Hawaii and which desperately wanted a toehold in Asia for her trade, notably with Japan and China, grabbed the first opportunity of grabbing the Philippines. The Philippines once more, so strategically placed as the soon-to-be-linchpin of American imperialism, extended her colonial servitude to the US.

With dynamic geo-politics working, the Philippines, and Manila in particular, proved to be manna from heaven as Japan began to flex her muscles. The result was that the Philippines served as first line of defense for Australia and the mainland US to buy time and it really proves more beneficial as another realignment was in force after World War II when communism comes into the scene and is threatening to swallow the whole of East Asia except Japan, putting the Philippines as a buffer zone for whatever adverse contingency and as long as the Manila leadership sides with the US, things will be OK.

Now that communism is under control and every country on both sides of the Pacific seemed to be embracing free market economy, all of Southeast Asia are grinding strong and busy buzzing. The factors of time, location, and distance are not a consideration anymore and what needs to be important is that Manila is as peaceful, orderly, productive, and creative as all her neighbors to win visitors' attention.

Being a city with its ears and antennae acutely tuned in to American and some European trends, and in the forefront of modernization and constant cultural refinement more than any other city in Southeast Asia or Asia as a whole, Manila witnessed or hosted innovations - political, cultural, civic etc.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Manila tourism information from Philippines Tourism website

Talk [ edit ]

Tagalog is the main language spoken in Manila, though most educated locals are able to speak English as well. A localized variant of Hokkien with strong Tagalog influences is spoken by the ethnic Chinese community.

Get in [ edit ]

For more information check the section on airports in the Metro Manila article.

For travel by ferry, mainly from other parts of the Philippines but also from a few other ports, see the section on boats .

Get around [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

Manila is served by LRT Line 1 (the green, or formerly, yellow line on maps), operated by Light Rail Manila Corporation, and LRT Line 2 (the blue, or formerly, purple line on maps), operated by the Light Rail Transit Authority; both cross through Manila city proper, converging at the intersection of Rizal Avenue and C.M. Recto Avenue. Line 1 uses light-rail type rolling stock and serves Malate , Ermita , Quiapo , Binondo and Santa Cruz , while Line 2 uses longer commuter-grade rolling stock and serves Quiapo, Sampaloc and Santa Mesa. Most tourist sites are along the Yellow Line.

Metro Manila's main regional passenger train station is Tutuban in Tondo. From Tutuban station, the Philippine National Railways (PNR) operates the Metro South Commuter line, mostly using ex-Japanese equipment. Fifty trains serve the commuter service daily, with the line crossing through Tondo, Sampaloc, Santa Mesa, Paco and San Andres before extending to southern Metro Manila. There is an interchange with the Line 1 at Blumentritt station, and with the Line 2 at Santa Mesa station (the latter, however, is an indirect connection).

The metro is insanely packed during rush hour and should be avoided if possible. On the metro, partly due to space constraints and partly due to safety, everyone wears their backpacks/bags on the front.

By bus or jeepney [ edit ]

Several city and provincial bus routes either cross through or terminate in Manila. Most buses which serve Manila proper will cross through the Lawton Bus Terminal, which is in front of the LRT-1 Central Terminal station. Routes include points in Metro Manila, Laguna, Cavite and Bulacan ; bus fares normally begin at ₱16 for city buses and ₱12 for provincial buses (as of 2019).

The bus routes in Manila are not numbered. However, the bus route is prominently displayed on the side of the bus and on the dashboard, listing both the route's endpoints and major points in between which will be served by that particular route. When in doubt, ask the bus conductor if a particular bus will go to a particular destination.

Manila is also served by several jeepney routes, some of which ply the routes previously served by Manila's pre-World War II tram system. The Lawton Bus Terminal is also a major jeepney terminal, with several jeepneys either crossing through, terminating or originating here. Fares begin at ₱10 (as of 2019) for the first 4 km (2.5 mi). Like buses, jeepney routes are not numbered, but the route is prominently displayed on the sides of the jeepney and on the dashboard, and drivers, or specialized barkers announce their destination and departure at route origins.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis (usually marked by the words 'taxi' on the sides of sedan cars) are plentiful and easy to find. During peak hours, it will be difficult to find an empty one, so find a taxi-stand where people form orderly lines and wait for empty taxis to pull up. Have a general idea of how much your trip would cost, and ask the taxi driver as you board how much will it cost (approximately) to get to your destination. Taxi drivers have been known to not switch on their meters as the journey starts, only to tell passengers to pay a fare that is two or three times the normal rate. And beware of taxis with dishonest drivers, especially those using a device that allow the driver to double the fare through the meter, such as in some airport taxis.

In general, be prepared with the name of your destination, a rough map with landmarks and an estimate of the fare before attempting to board a taxi on Manila roads.

Taxi apps include Grab, Angkas, Gojek, OWTO, Joyride and MyTaxi.PH.

By tricycle or pedicab [ edit ]

Tricycles and pedicabs are, in the City of Manila, limited to short distances as it can access hard-to-reach areas. Tricycle and pedicab terminals are found throughout the city: major points for taking tricycles and pedicabs within the downtown area include the Lawton Bus Terminal, the area around LRT-1 Doroteo Jose and MRT-2 Recto Stations, Tutuban Railway Station, Plaza Lacson in Sta. Cruz, and Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo. Tricycle and pedicab terminals are normally beside jeepney terminals and railway stations.

By law, tricycles and pedicabs must display a fare matrix which displays fares to areas served by the vehicle, and is normally adhered to for short distances. For longer distances, it is not uncommon to negotiate the fare beforehand with the driver.

By calesa [ edit ]

In Ermita, Intramuros and Binondo, it is still possible to ride a calesa , traditional horse-drawn carriage. While no longer used as a meaningful form of transport by most locals, calesas are useful for navigating through narrow streets (similar to tricycles and pedicabs), and for getting a feel of transport in colonial Manila. Fares are negotiated beforehand with the cochero (driver), and a one-hour ride for two people normally costs around ₱50-70 .

See [ edit ]

The main tourist sites of Manila are mostly along Manila Bay.

Landmarks [ edit ]

• Bonifacio Shrine - A shrine in honor of Andres Bonifacio who was one of the Filipinos who struggled and fought for freedom for the country against the Spanish forces.
• Chinatown - Manila has one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in the world, where one can find exotic Chinese goods and delicious cuisine.
• Coconut Palace - a residence commissioned and built along the waterfront by First Lady Imelda Marcos for Pope John Paul II's visit in 1981. It is occupied by the Vice President and open for public visits (by appointment by calling the Office of the Vice President, leaving a return call number and waiting for a confirmation).
• Intramuros - At the northern end of the bay lies the remnants of the old walled Spanish settlement of Manila, Intramuros (Spanish for 'within the walls'). Intramuros contains some of the city's most interesting museums, ruins, and churches including the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church one of the most finest churches in the city.
• Mabini Shrine - Apolinario Mabini's former home. Mabini was a Lawyer and fought for Philippine Independence. During the American Occupation, this home became the first intellectual headquarters of the First Philippine Republic.
• Malacañang Palace - Manila is the host of the official residence of the president of the Philippines. While heading your way here, you will see wonderful places. People can roam the garden afterward.
• Manila Hotel - Just outside Intramuros and on the edge of Manila Bay is the beautiful and historic Manila Hotel, a legacy of the American colonial era and the place where General Douglas MacArthur made his home before World War II.
• Plaza San Luis - A commercial complex consisting five house; Casa Manila, Casa Urdaneta, Casa Blanca, Los Hidalgos and El Hogar Filipino. Plaza San Luis showcases Filipino-Hispanic Architecture. Other than Souvenir shops there is a museum in Casa Manila.
• Roxas Boulevard - A wide boulevard which runs along the shores of Manila Bay, it is known for its view of Manila's famous sunsets and stretch of coconut trees. The boulevard offers a wide selection of hotels, restaurants and significant cultural landmarks.
• University of Santo Tomas ( Universidad de Santo Tomas (UST) ). This university is oldest and first university in Asia and the Philippines. It was used as a camp by the Japanese during their occupation where the imprisoned about 10,000 people even though it only can hold 4,000. ( updated Jul 2016 )
• Manila Metropolitan Theater - The Manila Metropolitan Theatre or MET is an art deco building designed by the Filipino architect Juan M. de Guzman Arellano, and inaugurated on December 10, 1931, with a capacity of 1670. The theater is on Padre Burgos Avenue, near the Manila Central Post Office. Renovated under the auspices of Imelda Marcos, it now falls back under the management of neglect and decadence.
• Manila Central Post Office - Designed by Filipino architect Juan Marcos de Guzman Arellano, in a very prominent visual and commanding spot of the first Civic Center in Manila and could have been perfect location for a Senate building, the Post Office building was built in neoclassical architecture in 1926. It was severely damaged in World War II, and rebuilt in 1946 preserving most of its original design. It is in the Intramuros district of the city, at the bank of the Pasig River. The front of the building faces the Liwasang Bonifacio plaza (now known as Plaza Lawton).

Museums [ edit ]

Manila's museum offerings have improved dramatically with the renovation of old favorites such as the National Museum of the Filipino People and the Ayala Museum . Other must-see museums in the city are the Bahay Chinoy (Chinese House), Casa Manila , San Agustin Museum , the Museum of Filipino Political History , and the Museo Pambata (Children's Museum).

• National Museum of the Philippines ( Pambansang Museo ng Pilipinas ), P. Burgos Ave , ☏ +63 2 527-1209 . Built and opened in the 1900s, the museum showcases significant collections from archaeology, arts, cultural properties, zoology, botany and many more. The National Museum of the Philippines is a government institution in the Philippines and serves as an educational, scientific and cultural institution in preserving the various permanent national collections featuring the ethnographic, anthropological, archaeological and visual artistry of the Philippines. Since 1998, the National Museum has been the regulatory and enforcement agency of the National Government in the restoring and safeguarding of important cultural properties, sites and reservations throughout the Philippines. The National Museum operates the National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Anthropology, National Museum of Natural History, and National Planetarium, all in the vicinity of Rizal Park. Free . ( updated Jul 2016 )
• The National Art Gallery is the repository of works by Filipino masters. The more than life-sized painting of Juan Luna titled "Spolarium", a powerful image in the mould of classical themes and Romanticist in style, is the museum's version of "Mona Lisa", meaning the most prized Philippines artwork.
• Museum of Philippine Political History ( National Historical Institute Museum ), T.M. Kalaw Ave . Includes documents such as the signing of Independence displayed in a holy grail-like showcase.  
• Metropolitan Museum of Manila ( Met Museum ), Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex, Roxas Blvd ( along Roxas boulevard, across from the Manila Yacht club. ), ☏ +63 2 521-1517 . M-Sa 9AM-6PM . Inaugurated during Imelda's heyday, it used to display works by Caravaggio. This, the premier art museum of Manila, showcases both traditional, Hispanic and modern art with its exhibits.  
• Bahay Tsinoy . One of Manila's well-known museums; see Chinese biographies and their contributions in the history of the Philippines.  
• Museo Pambata , Roxas Boulevard cnr South Drive ( From EDSA, turn right on Roxas Boulevard then take a U-turn on T.M. Kalaw Street. From Quiapo, take Quezon Bridge going to Padre Burgos Street then turn left on Roxas Boulevard. Or you may take the LRT-1 or a jeepney (A. Mabini route), get off on United Nations Avenue, and walk to Roxas Boulevard. Museo Pambata is right beside the U.S. Embassy ), ☏ +63 2 523-1797 . Aug-Mar: 8AM-5PM, Apr-Jul 9AM-5PM . A children's interactive museum, the first of its kind in the Philippines. Opened in 1994, Museo Pambata is the dream come true of Nina Lim-Yuson, who was inspired by the Boston Children’s Museum to open up a similar facility in Manila. ₱100 .  

Parks [ edit ]

• Rizal Park Right outside the walled city is Rizal Park more widely known as the Luneta . The Luneta is the venue for the national museums, bayside restaurants, an open-air theater featuring free classical music concerts and acclaimed international films, a planetarium, an open gym for early morning jogging and tai chi enthusiasts, or a night ballroom. It offers Japanese, Chinese, Filipino gardens, an orchidarium, an aquarium, and a children's museum. It is a popular meeting spot for family picnics and lovers' trysts, and was the site of the execution of Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, and the inaugural grandstand for the incoming President.
• Paco Park was built as a final resting place for Spanish families residing in Manila. After Jose Rizal's execution, his remains were sent and buried here, which is today commemorated by a monument in the park. It is now a public park with jogging lanes and open air concerts, and is also a popular venue for weddings. It is accessible by taxi and bus, or by a 10-minute walk from the LRT-1 United Nations Station.
• Arroceros Forest Park In the heart of downtown Manila, Arroceros Forest Park is a 2.2-hectare piece of land behind the old art deco Metropolitan Theater. Arroceros got its name, which means “rice dealers,” from the rice trade along the Pasig riverbank during the early colonial period.

Nature and wildlife [ edit ]

• [dead link] Manila Zoo . Rather decrepit, and in need of drastic renovations. The Manila Zoo covers an area of 0.055 km². Accessible via LRT-1 Quirino station.  
• Manila Ocean Park is a much better maintained marine wildlife facility which is behind the Quirino Grandstand at Rizal Park. The 8,000 m² (86,000 sq ft) oceanarium is larger than the Sentosa Underwater World oceanarium in Singapore, and features a 25-m (82-ft) underwater acrylic tunnel. Mostly accessible by taxi, but can be walked if you are in the vicinity of Rizal Park.
• Balara Grounds

Churches [ edit ]

Spanish colonial churches [ edit ]

Baroque colonial churches where once proud showcases of the past especially before World War II but the wanton destruction of the Japanese and the equally guilty American soldiers during the Battle of Manila in 1945 dissolved all that except for a handful remaining. Lack of maintenance, vandalism, theft, and no proper awareness, guidance, or education by administering priests and architects who undertook renovation blunders (multiplied more incidents in the provinces) complicated the already pathetic state of remaining churches.

• San Agustin Church
• Manila Cathedral
• Malate Church
• Santa Ana Church
• Binondo Church
• Santa Cruz Church
• San Nicolas Church
• Tondo Church
• Basilica of San Sebastian - The only all steel church of the Asia, the Europeans were tired of building the church over and over again after fires and earthquakes, they finally decided to build the cathedral in solid steel. The materials were ordered from Europe while the architect is Gustav Eiffel; the architect of the Eiffel tower in France. Its Gothic architecture might make you think you're somewhere in the middle of Europe.

Iglesia ni Cristo Churches [ edit ]

Aside from the interesting Spanish colonial churches, there is one group of church-structures belonging to the Iglesia ni Cristo , a homegrown reformist church established by a Manileño named Felix Manalo in 1914 that is uniquely Filipino somewhat parallels with the Latter-Day-Saints Mormons (its cultish-ness and disciplined regimen demanded from its congregation), that merit some curiosities. These unique churches have two outstanding features: that they are kept in pristine white condition (with some little color highlights), and they soar to the sky like those gothic cathedrals, or Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, or the Salt Lake Temple in Utah. In some cases, they jot out in the middle of a green countryside off the suburbs of Metro Manila. But even in the midst of urban jungle in Manila, one can't help but notice its towers and spires projecting through the clouds among the busy skyline.

No name yet is given to this architectural style but it may safely be called Philippine Gothic Revival and the churches show the usual suspects of Gothic tracery, lacework, and rosettas, with the emphasis of verticality and noticeable indigenous geometric motifs as substitute. The detailing is tasteful and awesome.

Its "Vatican" is in the New Era District of Quezon City and can be easily seen from about two to three miles away from all directions heralding in a Cinderella-like castle fashion, their main shrine and headquarters.

Saint days [ edit ]

Manileños are mostly very pious Catholic people. On a different angle, being afflicted with problems and ailments, Manileños may not have much alternative and feel that some things are just out of their control and the best way is to ask for answers and solutions to their favorite saints. Some streets leading to a patron saint's home church are extra tight during their special days.

For the anthropologically curious, it also provides a good peek into the daily life of the locals, young and old, men or women.

• St. Jude Thaddeus Shrine , San Miguel District, Manila - Near Malacañan Palace, this church is the busiest on Thursdays.
• Our Lady of Perpetual Help Shrine , Baclaran District, Pasay City. - Near the border of Parañaque and served by LRT Line 1, this Church is the liveliest on Wednesdays much more especially so because the surrounding area is carpeted by a flea market.
• The Black Nazarene Minor Basilica , Quiapo District, Manila - Its feast day is on January 9 but its special day of the week falls on Fridays.

Do [ edit ]

Tours [ edit ]

Tour Manila's historical heart in a historical fashion. Watch out for touts, especially around Rizal Park, and negotiate prices with the cochero to avoid being ripped off.

Manila's most populated district, Tondo, can be explored with a guided tour. There are no organized tour agencies, but you can ask many locals who know the life inside this giant slum. Beware of the hassles like gangs and thugs though, but your tour can go well if you don't provoke suspicious men in this .

Fiestas & festivals [ edit ]

Manila is just a bit of experiencing the Philippine fiestas, and if you have time to waste, it can help you connect with the diversity of the Philippine's cultural capital.

New Year celebrations are marked with noise, and it's celebrated twice. The traditional New Year based on the Gregorian calendar is celebrated almost anywhere, from earsplitting firecrackers on the streets to glamorous fireworks displays on Rizal Park. January 1 is a nightmare though to many locals, with all the smoke, trash and the worse, injured merrymakers coming around, as well as a lot of drunk locals and expats. New Year comes again in Binondo, and the streets become alive with the popping of firecrackers and the Dragon and Lion dances.

The second week of January is highlighted by the Feast of the Black Nazarene , drawing a huge crowd swarming the old city streets from Binondo to Quiapo. The festivities last about a week, beginning with moving the black wooden image of Jesus to the Quirino Grandstand, where the ritual of kissing and wiping towels on the image ( pahalik ) begins, followed by the procession of replica Nazarenes and the climactic Traslación . Security becomes a major concern, and it can be a hassle for some opportunistic tourists who want to join the crowd in this sacred festivity, as all space is occupied. If the crowd on January 9 is not enough, there are the Santo Niño festivals in the worker-class districts of Tondo and Pandacan. Streets of the mentioned districts become venues for dance parades and the procession of an image of the child Jesus. All Saints' Day in Manila is a solemn celebration, with families visiting the graves of their loved ones in the city's main cemetery, the Manila North Cemetery, but it's not advisable to join the crowds of Manila folks to visit some graves of historical figures.

Learn [ edit ]

Manila is an educational center, and is home to many of the Philippines' prestigious universities. Most of the well-known tertiary education institutions in the city are found within the University Belt , or the U-Belt , like the University of Santo Tomas, Far East University, University of the East, National University and San Beda University, while some are found inside Intramuros (e.g. Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Lyceum Philippines University) or along the Taft Avenue corridor between Ermita and Malate (e.g. Adamson University, De La Salle University). Manila's universities have significant numbers of foreign students; tuition fees are much lower and the educational system is much like of the United States.

Buy [ edit ]

Public markets [ edit ].

Public markets are one microcosm of Manila. Practically, Manileños from all walks of life come here to buy their everyday needs. They are as lively and colorful as any market in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, or Vietnam. Generally, they are divided into wet and dry sections and another section for dining. Dining is very cheap and can be wholesomely hygienic. Just look out for the huge block of ice dragged along the floor on its way from the delivery truck to a stall. If you see one delivered in that manner, never mind, don't eat there, ever. Joking aside, a filling meal will cost you as little as ₱65 .

Shopping centers [ edit ]

One of the experiences that you must try in Manila is shopping and the best way to get a feel for Manila shopping is to go to a ‘tiangge’, a market of stalls where everything can be bargained. There are a lot of flea markets scattered around the city catering to handicrafts, clothes, antiques, and curio souvenirs. These flea markets offers almost everything: gadgets, clothes, bags, shoes, food, furniture, antiques, jewelry and even books which are all often sold at cheaper prices.

Aside from flea markets and bazaars, Manila is also home to modern and western-type shopping malls which offers branded products, these are mostly in the commercial, financial and cultural districts of Ermita and Malate which are known for being a premier shopping destination in Manila. Robinsons Place Manila is the largest shopping mall in the city, it is a modern shopping mall in the district of Ermita and is home to a wide collection of international and local retail shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities. Harrison Plaza is also in the district of Malate , it is considered to be the first and oldest shopping mall in the country.

Other major shopping malls in the city are SM City Manila , SM City San Lazaro , Robinsons Otis and Lucky Chinatown Mall . Manila is known for being a major shopping hub of the Philippines, from modern shopping malls to colorful and traditional markets, its all here in Manila.

Ukay-ukay [ edit ]

If you happen to see just about every Tom, Dick, and Harry in a blighted neighborhood in Manila wearing an Abercrombie & Fitch get-up and Levi's jeans, chances are its original and bought at ukay-ukays . How can they afford it? Ukay-ukay is the answer. It's the Philippines' answer to Salvation Army. Nowadays, they are everywhere and Manileños love them. It's actually a contraction of the Tagalog word "Hukay" meaning to dig, the description for the exact action done while rummaging through the bins of clothes. But there are actually no bins installed in those stores, only clothes neatly hung on the racks. For less than ₱100 , you can find hand-me-down qualities of labeled apparel. The more enterprising provide home delivery and roaming services by hanging them on racks installed on pedicabs, as they make the run on neighborhoods. Judging by the high cost of living to most of the middle class and the soaring gasoline prices, they may be here to stay.

It's also great for the budget tourist who would not want to have the hassle of packing and carrying tons of clothes by simply buying them here, then discarding them somewhere as his piles of souvenirs accumulate.

Eat [ edit ]

Street food [ edit ].

Street food is often described as " pantawid gutom " or food to tide over, something to temporarily hush a stomach growl, sold at small food stalls, food stands, or food carts set up in places with high amount of pedestrian traffic. Cheap and rushed, it could be something commuters can chew and swallow, or gulp in seconds while transferring from one route to another, or from station-to-station, with a quick standing stop at a sushi, siomai, barbecue, or hotdog stall.

The variety of street food available is tremendous and may reward the truly adventurous traveler. Some notable examples are balut (boiled duck embryo), fish ball , kwek-kwek (boiled duck, chicken or quail egg covered in an orangy batter and deep fried in hot oil) , isaw (grilled chicken intestines), and banana cue (Philippine plantain fried in hot oil coated with caramelized brown sugar).

Low-income workers and students patronize them the most as they commute to their homes, often taking two-hour trips. These are noted in the open streets where they are the cheapest and these are what most bloggers and media immediately see. But there are ones that are as even cleaner as those found in Bangkok or at par with those in hawker centers in Taiwan , Singapore and Malaysia , or Japan and Korea . Mall walkways and Food Courts also offer a wide selection of Street Food menu and that is some notches less in worrying about hygiene. Expect the cost to be a little bit higher, although that would just come up to be in cents difference. For a taste of street food without the accompanying risk, try out Balut Eggspress , which serves balut , kwek kwek and one day old chicks , which are quite literally day old chicks marinated and fried in hot oil; and Nanay Q which serves special pork and chicken BBQ, liempo, grilled fish and shrimps

Comfort food [ edit ]

Carinderias sound like Spanish style cooking but there is no relation to it. It's simply a collective term for a working class type of eating stall, now with table and seats for sit-in meals, more as a hole-in-the-wall or a makeshift school canteen (some may have wheels) for the lowly construction worker, the jeepney driver, or the student low and tight on budget. The style of presenting the food (no menus but some have posted menus) is laid out on a glass-covered or open counter in pots or deep square aluminum platters (for the more classy ones) and where the customer can just scan his eyes and choose what he wants. Panaderias are bakeries dispensing bread and pastries. But the line is not clear if they are a separate class of their own or as Street Food. Goldilock's Bakeshop operate as a full-time restaurant but they can have some presence in malls as food stand types. Dunkin' Donuts or Mister Donut also establish their presence as either a shop with dining tables or as a stand-alone stalls.

Ambulant food [ edit ]

This is a special class of street food distinguished from the stationary ones. Vendors roam around in their carts in a certain route and a specific time, as some food that are sold are time sensitive, meaning they can only be eaten say, in the morning, or as afternoon snack. Some of their itineraries are neighborhoods, where their target clientele are pre-school or school age children, and some are office blocks, where their prime targets are lady workers. There are only a few types of these food that are mobile.

• Taho - this ubiquitous mushy tofu, found in the whole Southeast Asia has this Philippine version topped with sugar syrup and tapioca balls. It's patronized by everyone, like children in the morning.
• Mais - boiled corn-on-the-cob sold in the early to late afternoon.
• Binatog - boiled glutinous corn topped with coconut milk, sugar, and fresh coconut gratings.
• Bola-bola - fried fish balls, small hotdogs, etc.
• Assorted Fruits
• Dirty ice cream - sold in folksy carts, it announces its presence with a bell that looks more like a collector's item. Flavors are as native themed as its cart - mango, carabao cheese, pandan, and violet yam ( ube ).

Breakfast [ edit ]

Breakfast in the city is described as dry - meaning not wet as in noodle and soup or porridge like what is taken in the morning in most Southeast Asian cities. More like an amalgam of the East and the West, specifically the American, Hispanic, and Malay, somehow as if McDonald's and Cuban entrees collided with nasi lemak to form these creations that are very catchy to begin with for they all end with " silog ".

First, these are the key words in Tagalog: Si nangag for fried garlic rice and It log for egg more often sunny side up and rarely scrambled. They combine to form the portmanteau "SILOG". Along with these is the main item - meat or fish plus the given mainstays - Set A : lettuce, sliced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, Set B : carrots and peas toppings over sinangag, Set C : achara or pickled unripe papaya and carrots, Set D : fried garlic or shallots over sinangag, or Set E: onion rings.

Of course, this is assisted with hot coffee, tea, or juice and a couple of morning bread called Pan de Sal (salted bread).There are stalls or carinderias that specialize in this breakfast "silog" fare called "tapsihan" named for the first type of these combo ever concocted, the tapsilog .

Restaurants [ edit ]

Filipino food is safe to say more as a comfort food, a peasant food concocted at a time when all Filipinos were all living on agricultural-fishing existence, contented to eat simply on rice and one or two-dish meal - one dry and the other wet or soupy. Even if Filipinos have attained a higher degree of sophistication, the same ingredients are used and the same flavor is maintained.

Most sit-down and casual dining restaurants in Manila would fall under the mid-range category. But there are budget ones as well. For budget dining, just follow the office workers making a beeline to building basements, canteens, or carinderias (road side stalls) during lunchbreak almost everywhere in the city and even in high class Makati area. The men usually wear short sleeved Barong Tagalog and the ladies, like bank teller attires. These are not lowly workers but they pay lunch as cheap as ₱45 complete with a clear broth, a dish, and a cup of rice enough to energize the office worker for the rest of the day. University canteens open to the public offer student meals and have resident nutritionists too. Along Recto and Nicanor Reyes Sts., the epicenter of downtown university belt cosmos, there are dime a dozen shops that offer complete and filling budget meals as low as ₱35 .

Manila as a national hub of regional cooking, has almost all its regions represented in eating establishments either exclusively or featured with the others. General restaurants, either catering for the working class or the elite, can offer varied dishes coming from every region and have assimilated in every one's palette taste. For example the northern region called Ilocos has its favorite fare called pinakbet approved by practically everyone and has melted in every local's daily diet although it still sticks to be identified as an Ilocano fare.

Fast food [ edit ]

Even while the 'enlightened' world hates McDonald's and Pizza Hut, Filipinos are great lovers of its dining style and menus - hotdogs on stick, hotdogs on bun, hamburgers, or cheeseburgers, pizzas, and spaghettis. Their pictures proliferate everywhere, be it as street food or sit-in meal. Manileños also love donuts in the personification of which began with Dunkin' Donuts and Mister Donut, which were dethroned by the J. COs and Krispy Kremes. Philippine-style spaghettis are made sweeter than usual.

Manila has most of the usual American fast food chains such as McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Pizza Hut, Subway, Dairy Queen, Shakey's Pizza, Taco Bell, Dunkin' Donuts, TGIF, Italianni's, Outback, and KFC. Jollibee, the Filipino counterpart of McDonald's who now eclipses it's once held dominant position, is very common in Manila. It started out as a spoof spin-off of McDonald's, copying its menu and business model but substituting it with local ingredients (ex. mango pie for apple pie) and taking consideration of the local palate, now has become a billion dollar peso-franchise business empire. Another spin-off of this business is Chowking , the same business model and packaging (styrofoam, plastics, and cardboard) but with Chinese influenced menus and has become as ubiquitous as Jollibee and McDonald's. Another spin-off to the spin-off is Mang Inasal , this time the theme is country or provincial style menu with packaging this time using banana leaf and cane and bamboo baskets as plates, and claypots as serving plates catering to native food lovers.

Coffee shops such as Starbucks and Seattle's Best are quite common in malls and commercial centers. Meals could be as low as US$2 to US$3 in most fast food joints. A typical burger meal with fries and a drink would fall under this range.

Desserts [ edit ]

Some of the food offered by these dessert establishments may also be on restaurant menus (since these are categorically dessert items), those that specialize in local cuisine. But these parlors are also a separate category of their own. Goldilocks and Red Ribbon, super hygienic Americanized establishments stand out from the rest usually found in malls, and from the humble food stalls in the public markets where they originated. These two are basically bakeshops but they function as native ice cream parlors, serving more or less the following which are authentically or adaptively Filipino desserts such as sago parfait , halo-halo (the queen of Philippine desserts), leche flan , mais con yelo (iced sweet corn porridge in syrup), saba con yelo (iced stewed plantain in syrup) and polvoron

Pulutan [ edit ]

The Philippines has its own version of the Spanish Tapas but little is known about it outside the country even if Filipinos have invaded almost all corners of the globe, employed and even permanently residing in their host countries. Anyway, it's more or less the same kind of presentation - as a finger, toothpick, or fork food, and relevance - to accompany any alcoholic drink, mostly beer, on a social gathering between neighbors, relatives, work colleagues, peers, and clients and mostly fall under male-bonding or camaraderie social dining. It comes from the root word " pulot " meaning "to pick up".

It is always served in a communal plate or bowl with plenty of forks (if it needs to pick up the food, otherwise finger is OK) arrayed on a plate like oars on a boat. If there's a need for a dipping sauce, then a bowl is also served with it to be used communally.

Drink [ edit ]

A very local drinking experience in Manila meant going to beer gardens or beerhouses as is commonly called. They are scattered mostly around the working districts of Sampaloc, Santa Mesa, Quiapo and even the tourist belt areas of Ermita and Malate. Every city in the metropolis has practically its own adult entertainment strip, block, or district where these establishments can be found. These are heavily sexualized. It's mostly working class men and those working in the military and police establishments who are the clientele with young sexy and provocatively dressed waitresses or euphemistically called GROs (Guest Relations Officers) serving the customers. Some beer gardens take it up a level higher and have entertainment on the sides with scantily two-piece suit dancers taking turns on the stage. The kind of food served somewhat resemble the Spanish Tapas style ranging from the simple such as peanuts, corn, and peas - boiled or deep fried to mundane such as fried pork, beef, chicken to the adventurous such as other body parts - ears, gizzards, livers, hearts, intestines, brains, balls, blood, and what have you. They are categorized under the subject Pulutan .

For establishments resembling the Western version of a pub, these establishments are concentrated in Remedios Circle in Malate district, a very important hub of nightlife. Bohemian Malate , the older Ermita neighborhood that stretches between them contains a variety of venues serving a combination of food, comedy, alcohol, and live music.

Karaoke and videoke bars are also very common as majority of Manileños are American Idol fans as one's living room can be easily converted into one.

Work [ edit ]

The workforce in Manila covers everything from daily, minimum wage earners to expats being driven in BMWs. Standard working time varies, especially with the proliferation of contact centers, but the usual working hours are 8AM-5PM. Given that the traffic within the Manila escalates exponentially as the day begins, it's always better to leave early for meetings.

Punctuality is formerly less valued on business meetings; things go by "Filipino time" – in contrast to the more punctual "American time", and it was expected that the attendee would be late by up to one hour. However, this has been significantly reduced through the years, although the bad traffic is usually (and realistically) cited as the main cause for missing one's appointment.

Makati City is the country's main Central Business District, and, on every given weekday, it seems that all roads lead here. Multinational firms and big businesses hold offices here.

Ortigas Center, which cuts across the borders of Mandaluyong City, Pasig City and Quezon City, act as to be the alternative business districts with companies such as the Asian Development Bank headquarters and the World Bank Manila office in this vicinity.

Sleep [ edit ]

Check for hotel listings in the appropriate districts

Prior to asking where to sleep in Manila one should ask whether to sleep in Manila. Manila is the government center of the Philippines, but not necessarily the most central location for business travellers or tourists inside Metro Manila , neither the most safe or pleasant area of the city. Check the Metro Manila article for other options on where to stay in the city.

On the other hand, staying in Manila is definitely an affordable choice, more so than in affluent business areas of the 4th District. You can sleep in a Manila Hotel for as cheap as ₱500 per night if you wish. Don't expect many luxuries at this price though!

Manila has a lot of hotels, inns and apartelles. Most of these accommodations can be found within Roxas Boulevard overlooking Manila Bay, or in the districts of Ermita and Malate. Manila's hotel accommodations are 20 to 30 minutes away from the international and domestic airport.

There are many major international hotel chains which have a presence in Metro Manila. Rates are still generally cheaper here compared to the same class of hotels in western cities. A stay in these hotels however, would be considered a luxury by Philippine standards particularly since the cost is a month's income for some Filipinos.

Connect [ edit ]

Payphones are very common in the city center. The use of mobile phones is also very extensive. To use your mobile phone, it has to be at least a dualband GSM phone. Globe and Smart are the Philippine's largest mobile carriers and they invite you to use them as a roaming partner (inquire from your home carrier if they have Globe and Smart as a roaming partner).

To call anywhere within Metro Manila, simply dial the 7-digit telephone number from a payphone or a landline. If you need to call anywhere else within the Philippines, dial 0 + area code + telephone number. To make an international phone call, dial 00 + country code + area code + telephone number.

Internet cafes have become a common sight in Metro Manila. Most malls would have at least one internet cafe. Most internet cafes provide broadband speeds. Netopia and Pacific Internet are common chains. Netopia also has a branch at the MRT-3 Ayala Station. Cheap overseas calls can be made at Netopia branches via their VOIP service.

Most coffee shops now also have WiFi services available so you can surf the net while sipping a cuppa. Airborneaccess.net and WIZ are the most common WiFi providers. Ask around if usage is free of charge, otherwise, as the case is often, you will have to buy an internet access card at the counter.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Despite a reputation for crimes and congestion, Manila is relatively safe if you follow basic precautions. Touristy areas are well patrolled by police or private security, and most trips are done by public transport. Driving is surely the worse way to get around if you do not know large city driving.

Crime [ edit ]

Petty crimes are one risk, but you may get around without any hassle if you maintain common sense. Drugs, generally shabu and marijuana, are rife on crowded residential communities, but drug dealers generally hide inside homes while police and anti-drug agents are routinely searching houses for suspected drugs.

Theft is common, especially pickpocketing. You should act cautiously as you would in any other developing country, especially considering if you do not look Filipino. Thieves and con artists are likely to see you as an easy target. However, most travelers from other Asian nations, especially from southeast Asia, should have no problem blending in with the crowd.

Violent crimes are just another story; locals are more likely to be targeted by robbery at gunpoint. Bag snatchers can turn violent: some women are dragged on the streets with leg injuries when attempting to take back the bags from motorcycle thieves. Tondo is notorious for the most violent crimes as a gang capital.

Get away from slums to avoid becoming targets of impulsive attacks by drunk thugs and drug addicts, though locals generally fall victim. Dressing like a local can help, but avoid wearing clothes that may cause unwanted attention, like sleeveless shirts and shorts that lowlifes often wear.

During rush hour, watch out for pickpockets on the crowded trains. Be vigilant when taking jeepneys; the next passenger beside you can be a pickpocket, but students in uniform are the most common victims. Groping is also another issue, especially during rush hour.

Scams [ edit ]

Watch out for people who approach you and pretend they recognize you. They will say they work at your hotel (such as room service or security) and that they know you from there. They then say it is their day off and since they just happened to bump into you they want to show you something nice that is nearby. They may be very convincing even to experienced travelers. It is always a scam.

Another popular scam is for a con artist to befriend a tourist and offer to show them around, hang out, etc. After gaining the tourist's trust, the con artist then slips drugs into the tourist's food or drinks. The con artist then leads the drugged, groggy victim to an ATM and watches while he/she enters her pin. The con artist is then free to withdraw all the money from the account.

Get into a car or go anywhere with people only if you know them (even if they say that have helped you at the hotel on a previous occasion). They are best fended off if you just ignore them. If they persist, say, "Are you going to leave me alone or should I call the police?" That makes them leave quickly.

Bars and nightclubs [ edit ]

The Ermita and Malate areas are popular for its bars and nightclubs, particularly the girlie bar aimed to foreigners, and some aspects of prostitution (e.g. stripping, pimping) that follows them. But the nightlife goes beyond the tourist zone; even the University Belt around Sampaloc has a vibrant nightlife scene with an abundance of beer houses, clearly targeted to students despite zoning restrictions that prohibit their establishment within the 400-meter (1,300 ft) radius of schools and universities, and it is not uncommon for some groups of uniformed students, commonly boys, to sneak out of campus and hang out during class hours along with grown-ups seeking a drink and scantily clad women.

The legal drinking age is 18, the age of consent is 12 as of 2017, and students in uniform, even those already at the legal drinking age, are prohibited from going to any bar and nightclub during school days. Manila police raid watering holes for routine checks for prostitutes (in girliebars), and young patrons and uniformed students (in beer houses and night clubs). Adult locals must present an identity card or any other valid government-issued photo ID, while foreign travellers must always bring a passport (or a photocopy of it) as police raid drinking establishments to check for expired visas. Students in uniform must risk disciplinary hot water if caught.

Slums and rough areas [ edit ]

Manila has its notoriety for slums and seedy communities.

Tondo, while it has a diverse culture, can be just as dangerous, with its history of violent crimes led by gangs; it is considered the gang capital of the Philippines . Many residential areas are just as rough as Tondo, of note is the San Andres Bukid district to the southeast. Both are some of the largest slum communities in the Philippines.

A walking tour can just lead you to a rough area. Nuisances that impedes a pleasurable walking tour are dirty and malnourished children who freely use the streets as their playground, manholes that were left open (or probably its cover stolen to be sold as metal scrap), dog feces, uncollected garbage, undisciplined cars and mostly jeepneys weaving in and out of the lanes as they pick up passengers, and political billboards.

Public demonstrations [ edit ]

Areas of Manila, the Mendiola Bridge in San Miguel and the US Embassy in Ermita, are hotbeds for public unrest, and they are frequent venues for large public demonstrations. Leftist groups are the most notorious for causing public unrest; peaceful protests in those place can turn violent, with protesters clashing with anti-riot police. Always be informed by tuning into the local news and avoid joining demonstrations. Philippine immigration laws prohibits foreigners from joining any protests, and there is the risk of getting injured when demonstrations turn violent.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

• Manila Social Hygiene Clinic . 208 Quiricada Street Santa Cruz (in front of San Lazaro Hospital). Free STD and HIV testing and treatment. Monday - Thursday 8am - 3pm.

Go next [ edit ]

Within the metro [ edit ].

You may take day trips to Manila's neighbors next door.

• Makati – Bustling skyline, classy shopping and a vibrant nightlife.
• Pasay – While it is just another chaotic suburban neighbor, Manila's "tourist belt" extends to areas built on land reclaimed from Manila Bay. It houses Ninoy Aquino International Airport , so you can take some time before going onto an onward flight.

South Luzon [ edit ]

• Tagaytay — is a city on a ridge overlooking Taal Lake. The spectacular view of the Taal volcano in the middle of the lake, combined with the exquisite cuisine from the numerous ridge-side restaurants has made this a favorite weekend excursion for Manila residents (roughly 1 hour from Ninoy Aquino International Airport).
• Mount Batulao is a popular trekking destination near Tagaytay, with the same nice views and cool weather, making for a nice dayhike. Other nearby dayhikes include Pico de Loro and Mount Maculot (which has nice views of Taal Lake).
• Taal — is a heritage town containing many Spanish period homes that were built from the spoils of coffee, sugar and other 19th century export crops. A number of these homes have been turned into heritage museums that allow one to imagine what life was like during those times.
• Antipolo — Manilans make their annual summertime pilgrimage to the shrine of the Nuestra Senora dela Paz y Buenviaje (Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage) in this hilltop town. Once there, you can partake of the delicacies such as roasted cashew nuts and kalamay (glutinuous rice pudding). The Hinulugang Taktak Falls are nearby and prove a welcome respite to the city's hustle and bustle. On the way up to Antipolo via the Sumulong Highway are restaurants and bars which provide an excellent view of the Metro skyline. (around 1½ hours from airport)

North Luzon [ edit ]

• Subic Freeport Zone — This former American military base has been converted into an industrial park and ironically, an eco-tourism zone. Within the confines of the freeport one can partake of practically all of the activities that most tourists generally experience in the Philippines: sun-tanning on white sand beaches, bay side dining, studying English, forest canopy walking, wreck diving, casino gaming, survival trekking with native Aeta guides, bar hopping, golfing, getting a massage (one spa even offers synchronized massage with two masseuses) and other spa treatments, outlet shopping, you name it (around 3½ hours from airport).
• Corregidor Island
• Bataan – Historic province with memories of World War II.
• Baguio — lies further north and up in the mountains of the Cordilleras. With its cool climate and pine trees, Baguio is said to be the summer capital of the Philippines (around 8 hours from airport).

Routes [ edit ]

For rapid transit routes, consult the district guides. More detailed routes of numbered highways can be found on the district pages.

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Manila Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Best Time to Go to Manila

• Holiday Season  | September to December
• Dry Season | January to April

Climate and Weather

• What to Wear
• How to Get to Manila
• Getting Around Manila

From the Airport

• Public Transportation
• Where to Stay in Manila

Types of Accommodations

Neighborhoods and areas, accommodation highlights in manila, what to see and do in manila, explore intramuros.

• Go Museum-Hopping
• Go on a Food Trip in Binondo
• Shop in the Malls
• Experience the Nightlife in Poblacion
• What to Eat and Drink in Manila

Practical Information and Tips

Safety tips, what to pack, commuting tip, sample itinerary in manila, day 1: intramuros + food tour + museums, day 2: modern manila tour + modern museums + mall of asia + pub crawl.

Visit the bustling metropolitan center of the Philippines, Manila! Read about how to get around, top tourist spots that you should visit, the best places to stay in, and where to eat in this guide. 

Manila serves as the center of culture, economy, education, and government in the Philippines . It is the most populous region of the country and one of the most densely populated in the world. It is also the main gateway for international travelers going to the Philippines by flight. 

• Find the best Manila trips and experiences
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When you say “Manila,” it can mean two things. First, it can refer to the City of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Manila is made up of 16 administrative districts, including Binondo, Ermita, Intramuros, Malate, and Quiapo, among others.  

Second, the greater Metropolitan Manila area is also referred to as Manila. It is officially known as the National Capital Region (NCR) or Metro Manila. It is made up of the City of Manila, Makati , Quezon City , Parañaque, Pasay, and Taguig, to name a few.

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Manila intramuros historical express 90-minute tour in eco-friendly bamboo bike + optional upgrades, manila binondo shared walking food tour with guide, manila intramuros shared half-day walking tour with guide.

It can be a bit confusing. Make sure to do your research beforehand, so you don't end up staying in an area far from the main attractions you want to visit.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll refer to Manila as not just the City of Manila but also Metro Manila and the other big cities in the Philippines' bustling urban center. You’ll learn about Manila’s top tourist spots , the best way to get around, where to stay,  and where to eat.

But if you want to experience Manila's outdoor attractions fully, take note of the months with the sunniest days. 

Holiday Season  | September to December

The best months to go to Manila are during the -ber months of September, October, November, and December, when the city is full of festive lights and Christmas decorations.

It is also cooler during these months, which is great if you’re planning to do a lot of walking around. However, traffic can get worse than usual during the Christmas season. It is also during this time when a lot of people flock to the malls for their holiday shopping.

Dry Season | January to April 

If you have a lot of outdoor destinations included in your Manila itinerary, it's best to explore during the dry months of January to April.

While there is rainfall throughout the year in Manila, January to April has the least chance of rain. Make sure to bring water bottles, caps, and an umbrella with you if you're planning to do a lot of walking in Manila.

During the dry season, the temperature in Manila is warm. Take note that the hottest months in Manila, are typically from April to May, with an average daily high temperature above 33°C. 

If you plan to visit during these months, always bring a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated while exploring Manila. Additionally, make sure to check for  weather updates and the forecast on the days of your trip.

Here's an overview of the average monthly Manila temperature and rainfall

Source: NOAA

Source: Weather Spark

What to Wear 

When visiting Manila, expect a tropical climate. So dress in casual breathable clothes, especially during the dry months. If you're in the malls or outdoors at night, especially during the holiday season or rainy season, it's best to bring a light jacket with you to keep you warm.

How to Get to Manila 

Manila is accessible from both international and local destinations by flight. You will be landing in one of the four terminals of  Manila Airport , depending on the airline.

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• Read our guide on airports in the Philippines

Note that there are four terminals in Manila, which are not connected by subway systems. It can be confusing for many first-time visitors, so make sure to find out which airport you're landing in before making transfer arrangements.

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Ninoy aquino international airport (naia) to hotel in pasay | private manila airport transfer (mnl), private manila airport transfer to manila city hotel from ninoy aquino international airport (naia), ninoy aquino international airport (naia) to hotel in taguig | private manila airport transfer (mnl), getting around manila .

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 is located in Parañaque City, while Terminals 2, 3, and 4 are in the neighboring Pasay City.

The metro or subway system does not connect these airport terminals at the moment. The only way to get there and out is via private transport, shuttle buses, or taxis. 

There is a free shuttle bus going to all terminals that runs every 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Given the heavy traffic in Manila during the day and early evening, it may not be the best idea if you are pressed for time (e.g., if you have a connecting flight with a layover of less than 4 hours).

You can also take the Airport Loop buses from all terminals. It will take you from the airport to Baclaran, Pasay Rotonda, Taft Avenue station of the Manila Metro Rail Transit System (MRT), and Manila Light Rail Transit System (LRT) in Pasay. Taft Avenue is the closest light rail station to the airport. Both MRT and LRT1 have a Taft Station and are connected with each other by a walkway.

Another option is the P2P (Point-to-Point) buses called the UBE Express. Fares vary depending on your destination. These buses run on four fixed routes, stopping at selected hotels and shopping malls, while other buses stop at big bus terminals. Check the  P2P bus schedules here .

By Taxi/Cabs

All Manila airports have taxi stands. You can ride the following: 

Regular Taxi - White metered taxi/cabs with a fixed flag down rate and per kilometer fee.

Coupon Taxi- Blue-marked white taxi/cabs that are dispatched by airport personnel and charge a fixed price

Yellow Airport Taxi - Metered taxi with a fixed flag down rate and per kilometer fee, but almost double than the regular taxis.

Taxi scams at the airport are common. If the driver shows you a printed list of destinations and their corresponding prices, be warned that those rates are most probably overpriced.

Another red flag is when the driver doesn't use a meter and charges you ridiculous prices. To avoid the headache of getting scammed, use the official taxis (coupon taxis and yellow airport taxis).

When someone outside the arrival area offers you a ride, say no. Often, these drivers (or their middlemen) will overcharge you. They might offer to help you with your bags, keep a tight grip on your belongings and say no, or ignore them.  

By Car Booking App

Another recommended way to get out of the airport and into the city is through Grab, a ride-hailing app similar to Uber (Uber is no longer operating in the Philippines).

Grab offers GrabTaxi (accredited regular metered taxi), GrabCar (private), and GrabShare (carpooling).  Download the Grab App before arriving in the Philippines in case the airport WiFi fails.

By Car Rental

There are car rental services in Manila that you can avail of, including Manila van rentals ,  SUV rental in the Philippines , and  luxury car rentals in the Philippines . Self-drive car rentals in the Philippines  like budget car rental in the Philippines  are also available in all Manila airports (except Terminal 4). Just make sure you have the requirements to rent a car in the Philippines . You can book a  car rental in Manila in advance so you can pick up the car at the airport or their designated pick-up points in Manila.

If you're driving in Manila, we highly recommend using GPS navigation apps like  Google Maps and  Waze . Traffic in Manila needs a lot of patience and excellent driving skills, so make sure to prepare yourself if you're driving here for the first time. 

Public Transportation    

The fastest way of getting around is via train. Three lines are operating in Manila: Manila Metro Rail Transit (MRT), Light Rail Transit 1 (LRT1), and Light Rail Transit 2(LRT2). The other modes of transportation are the tricycle and jeepney, both unique to the Philippines.

You can also hail a taxi or use car booking apps or a motorcycle booking app if you want to explore Manila.

MRT and LRT

The Manila Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) run across major roads in Manila and connect Manila's north and south areas. The MRT traverses Epifanio de Los Santos Avenue (EDSA), while LRT1 and LRT2 have routes crossing Pasay, Manila, Caloocan, and Quezon City. 

If your hotel is somewhere in the city of Manila, Makati, Pasay, or even Quezon city, you can ride the MRT or LRT. Be warned though, that the MRT and LRT are very crowded during rush hour (7 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 9 PM on weekdays).

However, if you travel during the off-peak hours, the MRT and LRT offer the quickest way to slice through Manila's notorious traffic jams. 

You can purchase single-journey tickets/cards (one way) or stored value cards (reloadable BEEP cards) in any station in MRT, LRT1, and LRT2. Reloading can be done at any station, as well.

The single-journey tickets are exclusively used in each line where you purchased them, while the reloadable BEEP cards can be used in all three lines. If you'll be riding the MRT and LRT a lot while in Manila, purchasing a BEEP card is highly recommended. 

Source: Light Rail Transit Authority

MRT runs along EDSA, from Taft Avenue to North Avenue in Quezon City. This line gives travelers access to Roxas Boulevard, Makati, Mandaluyong, San Juan, and Quezon City. You can take this line if you want to explore  Makati tourist spots and Quezon City attractions. 

LRT1 and LRT2

There are two LRT routes, LRT1 and LRT2. LRT1 is the first among the three light rails in the Philippines, while LRT2 is the newest. A walkway in Doroteo Jose station connects LRT1 and LRT2. 

LRT1 runs from Baclaran to Monumento. It lets you explore areas in Roxas Boulevard or Pasay area, Makati, Manila, and Caloocan. Beyond Caloocan are mainly residential areas not frequented by travelers.

LRT1 cuts through most of the city of Manila, which makes it the best transit to ride to get to popular Manila attractions such as Binondo, Intramuros, and Rizal Park. 

LRT 2 has the shortest route. It runs through Metro Manila's East to West areas. It starts in Manila and ends in Marikina City, with stops along Quezon City and San Juan City. LRT 2 may be the shortest line, but it can still take you to Manila tourist spots. You can ride the LRT 2 to get to Binondo and San Sebastian Church in Intramuros, which is the only all-metal building in the country.

Jeepneys have become an iconic symbol of Philippine culture and art. These can accommodate up to 20 passengers, depending on the size of the jeepney. Riding these open-aired vehicles in the streets of Manila offers an interesting experience for first-time visitors. 

You can hail these anywhere on most Manila roads, but take note if there are designated loading and unloading stations in the area. Each jeepney has a sign on its windshield that indicates its last stop and 1 or 2 other significant stops along its route. Find out first which route you need to take before riding a jeepney. 

Payments are handed to the driver at the front during the ride. If you're seated at the far end of the jeepney, the other passengers can pass it to the driver for you.

Locals say "Bayad po, " (Here's my payment) when handing the money to the driver. It is so the driver can compute how much your fare is since it varies on your pick-up point and destination.

When you're about 5 to 10 meters away from your stop, locals will say "Para po!" (Please stop) to notify the driver to slow down and stop at the nearest unloading station.

Motorized tricycles, or simply tricycles, are the local form of the auto-rickshaw similar to Thailand’s tuk-tuk. These public utility vehicles ply a set route in inner roads. They are usually found in terminals where passengers line up to wait for their turn to board one.

These can also be hired like taxis in some areas if their route allows it. Built in a variety of styles that differ from city to city, these are usually made locally by building a sidecar affixed to a motorcycle. These can usually accommodate 2 to 4 passengers only.

Taxi or Car Booking App

For those who only have a short time in the city and want a hassle-free journey, the best option is to take a taxi or book Grab using the  Grab App .

While Grab is usually more expensive than riding jeepneys or buses, these can ensure you can get around safely and in comfort. You don't have to do multiple transfers, which is convenient for travelers coming from and going to the airport.

Motorcycle Booking App

More adventurous travelers can choose to book with the  Angkas app , which is similar to Grab Motorbike in other countries like Vietnam.

If you are traveling solo, you can use the app to hire a rider to pick you up and take you to your desired location. It is especially significant if you are in a hurry since motorcycles can navigate through heavy traffic easily.

Where to Stay in Manila  

Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism

Manila is made up of multiple cities, and traveling from one city to another can be time-consuming, especially during rush hour. It's important to plan where your home base will be in Manila so you can easily go to the attractions included in your itinerary.

This section will run you through the common types of accommodations you'll find in Manila for your staycation in the Philippines . Whether you're on a tight budget or you're someone who prefers to spend more on luxurious accommodations, it's always better to plan before traveling. Whichever you prefer, you're bound to find what you're looking for in a metropolis as big as this one.

It's essential to research Manila hotels and other types of accommodations before your visit. Be sure to check if the property accommodates the number of people you are traveling with. If you're looking for budget hotels in Manila, vacation rentals, or luxury accommodation, Manila has them all.

Whether you're staying for work or leisure, there are various hotels in Manila , ranging from budget to luxury. Luxury hotels in Manila offer amenities such as a swimming pool and a spa, while budget hotels in Manila provide basic amenities and furnishings. Make sure to follow the check-in procedure to avoid getting an extra charge.   

• Crimson Hotel Manila package
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Vacation Rentals

If you're looking for privacy, renting a private condominium or house within Manila will work best. There are several vacation rentals throughout Manila, from Pasay City, Makati City, Mandaluyong City to Quezon City. It's better if you're in a group so you can share the expenses. 

Perfect for solo backpackers, hostels in Manila usually offers dorm-type rooms and single rooms but with shared bathrooms. You can find several hostels in Makati. Hostel common areas are ideal for meeting new people, and some even have rooftop bars where you can chill at night.

Location is a significant factor when booking your hotel in Manila. The ideal location would either be one nearest to the airport or where most of the activities you plan will be concentrated around. 

However, if you are planning to stay a little longer, then you should have ample time to explore Manila thoroughly. Your choice of where to book your accommodation depends on your budget and itinerary. 

For business and leisure travelers who want modern conveniences, creature comforts, and luxury hotels, the best place to stay would be in the central business districts or CBDs. Manila has several central business districts to choose from, including Makati, Bonifacio Global City, and Ortigas Center. 

Aside from the CBDs, cities like Quezon City, Mandaluyong City, Pasay City, and the city of Manila also offer an excellent selection of quality accommodations. 

There are luxury hotels and budget hotels in Manila that are near the attractions mentioned above. The best views are in the hotels lined up at Roxas Boulevard, where you are treated to breathtaking sunset views of Manila Bay. 

Pasay City in itself also offers fascinating attractions like The Dessert Museum, Lakbay Museo, and the Upside Down Museum. It also has entertainment hubs like Resorts World Manila, and the amusement park, Star City. If you want to go shopping, you can find the Mall of Asia, the fourth largest shopping mall in the Philippines, in Pasay City.

• Book a 2-hour Dessert Museum Ticket to 8 Themed Rooms & Complimentary Dessert

Makati CBD 

Makati is a melting pot of international affairs and is quite famous for its multicultural lifestyle. Makati It is also known for its array of Makati hotels and luxury malls, most of which can be found in Makati's prime shopping and entertainment hub, Ayala Center.

Many international retail brands have made their home in department stores in Makati, located in Glorietta Malls and Greenbelt Malls. 

Makati Poblacion

The hotels in Makati aren't just centralized in the CBD. You can also find accommodations in the revitalized hip neighborhood of Poblacion. This area boasts a  vibrant nightlife that attracts the millennial workforce of Manila.

• Book a  Sentro Spa massage in Manila

It is also where most backpacker hostels in Makati are located. A few minutes walk or drive from Poblacion will take you to Rockwell Center, most known for being the location of the Powerplant Mall. 

It is reputed to be the best area in Manila for first-time visitors, since shops, nightlife, and sights are easily accessible. It also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to upscale hotels in Makati .

Bonifacio Global City

Additionally, BGC has several malls like the Market! Market!, SM Aura, and Uptown Mall. Bonifacio High Street is BGC's central retail and entertainment hub. It boasts open-air shopping blocks with several high-end retail outlets and features a diverse array of restaurants that offer international and local cuisine.

BGC is also home to upscale residential condominiums. So, if you’re looking for plush vacation rentals or luxury hotels in Manila that are close to restaurants, clubs, and shopping malls, then look no further than BGC.

Quezon City

Additionally, restaurants in Quezon City have become favorite eating spots for food lovers everywhere. Maginhawa Street is a well-known street where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Manila . It has become a food haven that offers various delicious meals; from local cuisine to international gastronomical treats. If you’re into food trips, then book your accommodation in Quezon City.

Depending on your budget and preference, it's essential to note the following: location, price, and service. While it's okay to stay in a cheaper place, one should consider the number of people staying. If you're in a group, it might be better to rent a private house or stay at Manila hotels that offer family rooms. 

Budget Accommodations

Manila has many options to fit the needs of backpackers or travelers who’d rather spend more on the sights than on the hotel. These two come highly recommended among budget-conscious travelers.

Lub D Hostel (Makati City)

Lub D Hostel in Makati Avenue is the largest hostel in Manila. This hostel prides itself on its casual and friendly vibe that inspires you to mingle with its local and international guests.

They offer mixed dorms, ladies' dorms, private rooms, and family or group rooms. Lub D Makati also boasts a stunning rooftop restaurant, a deli bar, a cafe, and even a co-working space. Other facilities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, a TV room, and meeting rooms. 

Red Planet (Binondo, Manila and Poblacion, Makati)

Photo by Red Planet Hotels Philippines

Red Planet is a hotel chain with branches all over Manila. Red Planet Binondo and Poblacion are strategically located in the tourist hotspots in Manila. Red Planet Binondo in Manila is situated near the famous Chinatown and other historical places in Manila.

Red Planet Makati is right in the center of Poblacion, Makati’s lively nightlife hub. Red Planet boasts minimalist and modern private rooms at affordable prices.  Although their rooms have basic amenities, you can expect maximum comfort during your stay.

Mid-range Accommodations

Manila is home to several 4-star and 5-star hotels offering world-class facilities and services. If you're looking for all the creature comforts of a hotel but still want bang for your buck, you should stay in this type of accommodations.

The Manila Hotel (Manila)

The Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park is a historic 5-star hotel that was built in 1912. This hotel showcases the elegance of authentic Filipino interior design in its 570 rooms and suites.

The Manila Hotel boasts a posh deli, an outdoor pool bar, a lobby lounge, and five high-end restaurants, including Cafe Ilang-Ilang, one of the best buffets in Manila , that offer a wide array of local and international cuisine. They also have a swimming pool, a garden area, a spa and sauna, and a gym equipped with state-of-the-art technology. 

Luxury Accommodations

The Entertainment City, an area in Parañaque, is a gaming and entertainment complex. It is a top choice for business or luxury travelers as it is also near the airports. Here are two highly-recommended hotels in the area.

Okada Manila (Parañaque City)

Photo by Okada Manila

Okada Manila is a 5-star casino resort and hotel complex that offers a world-class luxury experience. Aside from their stunning private rooms and suites, they also have an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and wellness center, restaurants, an in-house casino, an indoor beach club, a day-to-night club, art galleries, meeting facilities, and retail shops. 

City of Dreams - Nobu Hotel Manila (Parañaque City)

City of Dreams is the first-of-its-kind boutique Nobu Hotel in Asia. This top-notch hotel offers world-class facilities and luxurious amenities. They have an in-house casino, a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and top-notch rooms and suites. The City of Dreams also boasts an excellent selection of Japanese cuisine. 

For first-time visitors in the Philippines, the best thing to do is zero in on the famous historical places in Manila. Going on a museum tour and a food tour should be on top of your list of things to do in Manila. Whether it's history, food, culture, shopping, or nightlife you're interested in, you're sure to find something fun and unique to do in the metro. Here are a few of our top picks:

Video by the Philippine Department of Tourism

Intramuros is the oldest district and historic core of Manila. Known as the "Walled City," this landmark walled area within the modern city was the seat of government and political power when the Philippines was still under Spanish rule. What makes Intramuros fascinating is that it is the only remaining district in Manila where visitors can even see Spanish-era architecture.  

• Book Intramuros tours
• Check out this San Agustin Church to Manila Cathedral tour

You will also get to visit the historic Manila Cathedral, which is the very first cathedral in the Philippines. You will also get to see Fort Santiago, one of the oldest Hispanic stone fortresses in the country, and the San Agustin Church, which has been rebuilt three times due to war and natural disasters and is part of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines that are collectively deemed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . You won't run out of  things to do in Intramuros .

Another option is to  ride a horse-drawn carriage that will take you around the highlights of Intramuros. 

See our popular Intramuros Tours

Manila intramuros half-day shared walking tour with guide, go museum-hopping              .

It is divided into several sections: Fine Arts, Anthropology, Natural History, and a Planetarium, all located within the same complex in Rizal Park or Luneta Park. In the same area is where you can also find the Rizal Monument, a memorial for the Philippines' National Hero, Jose Rizal.

You can also check out The Metropolitan Museum of Manila. It is located in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. The Metropolitan Museum boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary visual arts by local and international artists.

Besides historical museums and art galleries, Manila also offers unique exhibits such as The Dessert Museum, Lakbay Museo, and the Upside Down Museum in Pasay.

• Read more about the best museums in Manila  

Go on a Food Trip in Binondo            

Join a Binondo tour and get ready to chow down on Chinese and Filipino delicacies like dumplings, pork chop noodles, xiao long bao, lumpia, oyster cake, kampong, stir-fried tofu, and Wintermelon tea. 

See our popular Binondo Tours

Manila binondo & intramuros full-day tour with guide & transfers, binondo manila basic photography lessons with light snacks | binondo church, dong bei dumplings, shop in the malls              .

If you’re looking for a place where you shop, dine, and find entertainment in air-conditioned comfort, malls are the best places to go to in Manila. The SM Mall of Asia (MOA), in particular, a shopping mall in Pasay, is the most popular spot for foreign and domestic travelers who like to go on a retail spree.

MOA is the fourth largest shopping mall in the country, and it is home to numerous restaurants, bars, boutiques, cinemas, and an IMAX theater.

There's also a seaside esplanade and baywalk that offers a stunning view of Manila Bay during sunset. The Mall of Asia Eye, a 55-meter (180-foot) tall Ferris wheel by the bay, offers a spectacular view.

Another must-visit mall in Manila is the Venice Grand Canal Mall, also known as the Venice Piazza in McKinley Hill. Aside from being in an upscale neighborhood and having an impressive array of retail shops, the Venice Piazza is famous for its replica of the Venice Grand Canal.

The mall even has the signature turquoise water and gondolas of the iconic Venetian waterway. If you're looking for beautiful scenery to pose in for an Instagram photo, Venice Piazza is the perfect spot!

Experience the Nightlife in Poblacion              

Poblacion, the old downtown area of Makati, has been revitalized into one of the hippest districts in the city. This trendy neighborhood is one of the top places to visit in Makati and is the cultural and entertainment heart of the city, catering to international travelers, ex-pats, and locals.

• Poblacion Makati rooftop hopping
• Poblacion Makati street party
• BGC game night
• Binondo Manila basic photography lessons
• Korean culture experience in Quezon City

Poblacion is also very popular with the backpacker crowd. It is home to many hostels and artsy boutique establishments like Z Hostel, Lokal Hostel, Junction Hostel, and MNL Boutique Hostel.

After sunset, Poblacion transforms into a vibrant club scene where you can do a pub crawl tour. The streetside restaurants, bars, and clubs in the area come to life.  Within the vicinity, you can also find high-end shopping retail centers and venues for concerts and special events. 

What to Eat and Drink in Manila   

One of the best things to do for first-time travelers in Manila is to enjoy traditional Filipino cuisine and culture by patronizing dining establishments that offer a cultural experience. Manila is a foodie haven.

There's no one cuisine that best represents it as a whole since the region is such a melting pot of multicultural lifestyles. Thanks to its diverse community, you can find  cuisine from various areas of the Philippines .

Barbara’s Restaurant

Guests can enjoy classic Filipino dishes like kare-kare (peanut sauce-based stew), caldereta (tomato-based meat stew), adobo, lechon (roasted pig), gulaman (grass jelly drink), and palitaw (rice cake). To make your experience more immersive, you will be dining in a beautifully restored 18th-century building that reflects the Spanish colonial period's best architectural design. 

While dining, visitors are treated to dance performances from the Spanish era to the folkloric Philippines, including tinikling. The live music makes use of all local Filipino Instruments like rondalla and guitars. 

Photo by Locavore Kitchen & Drinks

Locavore serves locally grown and produced Filipino dishes with a unique twist for those who want a more modern take on traditional Filipino dishes. With bestsellers like sizzling sinigang, lechon oyster sisig, and kare-kare wings, this modern and innovative restaurant is an excellent choice for adventurous foodies.

Locavore has several branches around Manila, including in Kapitolyo, Pasig, Taguig, Makati, and SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Islas Pinas

Another place to check out is Islas Pinas, a fiesta-inspired Food Hall in the Double Dragon Plaza in Pasay City near Mall of Asia that features dishes from all over the Philippines. 

It aims to bring Filipino cuisine to global prominence by showcasing regional specialties, local home-cooked dishes, and elevated street food in a unique cultural setting.

For a destination as comprehensive as Manila, it can get overwhelming with all the information you need to digest. Before you start planning your Manila trip, take note of these essential practical travel and safety tips for a hassle-free and safe vacation: 

Major establishments in Manila accept credit cards. There are also several money changers and ATM throughout Manila. However, it's better to bring enough Philippine Peso (PHP) with you, in smaller bills in 20, 50, and 100 denominations for faster transactions.

Additionally, always carry loose change. They will come in handy when you are riding public transportation or buying food and small items from vendors.

Most Manila locals use Filipino when communicating. The majority of locals can speak and understand English. Make sure to greet the locals with a simple "Hello" to initiate a conversation. Don’t worry, they’re friendly and can accommodate most of your questions.

Watch out for pickpockets when commuting and keep your valuables safe, especially in crowded areas like Cubao, Binondo, and Makati Avenue. If you’re planning to walk alone at night, make sure to keep your bags close to you. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Wear light clothing when going to nature parks, and bring lots of water. It's best to bring a jacket or umbrella with you in case of rain. Don’t forget to bring a small bag when you’re going on a sightseeing trip! It will be more comfortable when you're walking along minor roads, especially if you plan to shop.

The weather in Manila can get quite hot and humid, so be sure to bring drinking water while going around. Although vendors are selling bottled water everywhere, it is best to bring your water bottle to stay hydrated and minimize plastic waste.

Like in most big cities, it’s best not to wear fancy jewelry and carry all your valuables with you when doing  sightseeing trips in Manila . Secure all your essential items and money in anti-theft bags.

Make sure to do some research as well on standard costs of fares and other items. Most Filipinos can speak English. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from locals if you need information on the amount paid for jeepney fares or directions if you get lost.

06:00 AM - Arrival at Manila airport

06:30 AM - Taxi ride to the hotel

07:00 AM - Early check-in at the hotel

07:30 AM - Breakfast

09:00 AM -  Explore Intramuros

10:00 AM - Intramuros Bike Tour

12:30 NN -  Food tour in Binondo

02:00 PM -  Museum-hopping at National Museums

05:30 PM - Watch the sunset by Manila Bay

06:00 PM- Dinner at Barbara’s Restaurant in Intramuros

07:00 AM - Breakfast

08:00 AM -  Modern Manila tour  

11:00 AM - Tour of  Dessert Museum and  Lakbay Museo  

12:30 NN - Lunch at Isla Pinas

02:00 PM - Shop at the Mall of Asia

06:00 PM - Dinner at Locavore

08:00 PM - Pub crawl in Poblacion

Don’t Skip Manila!

Discover the many tourist attractions and activities in Manila . Start planning your trip by looking into  Manila tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary.

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10 reasons to visit Manila

Oct 13, 2014 • 6 min read

Despite being one of Southeast Asia's best capital cities for sightseeing and culture, Manila continues to (unfairly) get a bad rap. Crime, pollution, poverty, corruption, overpopulation and horrendous traffic jams are all typically associated with the city, but this paints an unbalanced picture. Sure, it’s not without its faults, but with a booming economy and buzz generated by a hip new wave of restaurants, nightlife and galleries, Manila has renewed vitality and self-confidence. Here are just 10 good reasons to give it a chance – you'll discover it's one of Asia's absolute gems.

Spanish heritage in Intramuros

As Asia’s only former Spanish colony, the Philippines offers an intriguing point of difference to its neighbouring countries. Intramuros  is the nucleus of Spanish life in Manila and the best place to soak up this history. After having been destroyed during WWII, this walled city has been faithfully restored and provides a great escape from Manila’s chaos. Here you can enjoy the laidback atmosphere and stroll leafy residential streets that are lined with colonial architecture.

Intramuros’ centrepiece is Fort Santiago – a citadel used by Spanish and American military, with its arched gateways, barracks and cell blocks offset by a sanctuary of gardens, fountains and plazas. Other highlights in Intramuros include San Agustin Church (the only building left intact following the Battle of Manila in WWII) and  Casa Manila , a lavish reproduction of a colonial Spanish house that was a project of Imelda Marcos.

World-class museums

Manila has a number of must-visit museums covering a range of themes. For wonderful pre-Hispanic artefacts, head to the National Museum of the Filipino People , located within an imposing neoclassical building and showing exquisite pieces from across the Philippines. Nearby in Intramuros is the Rizal Shrine museum, which highlights the extraordinary life of national hero Dr José Rizal – from his last days before being executed for standing up against the Spanish, to documenting his genius as a modern-day Renaissance man.

A more offbeat attraction is Imelda Marcos’ infamous shoe collection at the Marikina Shoe Museum , where some 800 pairs of her shoes are displayed. Or check out the ultra-modern Ayala Museum , with four floors showcasing a superb collection of gleaming pre-Hispanic gold artefacts, quality art shows, and impressive dioramas detailing the country’s history.

Walking and cycling tours

A great way to get some locals insights is to join a Manila walking tour. Most well known is Walk This Way ( http://celdrantours.blogspot.co.uk ), run by local identity Carlos Celdran. These theatrical tours tell it like it is, mixing in history, comedy and a healthy dose of cynicism while exploring Intramuros. Another stalwart on Manila’s walking-tour scene is Ivan Man Dy, who runs Old Manila Walks ( oldmanilawalks.com ), known for his foodie tours of Chinatown – these are worth loosening your belt for. For something different, jump on a bamboo bike designed by local entrepreneur Bryan McClelland, who’ll take you to less visited parts of Intramuros with his Bambike tours ( http://bambike.com ).

Art galleries

Art lovers will adore Manila's beautiful galleries, which exhibit everything from Filipino masters to modern art. The National Gallery of Art is the best place for classic 19th-century Filipino painters (most notably Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo), while the fantastic Metropolitan Museum of Manila is the place to go for contemporary works. Across the road from here is the Cultural Center of the Philippines (established by Imelda Marcos), home to several modern art galleries; while Vargas Museum and Yuchengco Museum also have stellar permanent collections and quarterly shows.

Chinatown and unusual cemeteries

Reputedly home to the oldest Chinatown in the world, Binondo district is a great place to soak up an ‘old Manila’ atmosphere with a twist. Streets are decorated with Chinese lanterns and lined with shops selling moon cakes, Chinese medicine, Buddhist paraphernalia and, of course, delicious Hokkien food.

North of Binondo is the Chinese Cemetery , one of Manila’s most intriguing sights. Experience the eeriness of ghost-town-like streets lined with luxury tombs, many complete with running water and air-conditioning! If that’s not surreal enough for you, visit the attached North Cemetery , home to a community of several thousand residents who've remarkably set up houses and shops among the tombs.

While Filipino cuisine hasn’t exactly taken the world by storm, there are plenty of places in Manila to eat extremely well. For both quality and atmosphere, try one of the restaurants that have opened within historic Spanish colonial houses, such as Purple Yam (an offshoot from the original Brooklyn, NY restaurant), which does modern Filipino degustation menus. Or try the specialty old-world Manila dishes at La Cocina de Tita Moning . The new Blackbird restaurant by acclaimed Scottish chef Colin McKay is another worthwhile splurge, opening in an art deco former airport control tower.

Yet another reason not to skip Manila is its pumping nightlife. There’s plenty going on here with fancy rooftop cocktail bars, speakeasy bars and laid-back pubs, as well as a great clubbing and live music scene. See  why Manila is fast becoming one of Asia's coolest cities for more on the city's nightlife scene.

Heritage hotels and budget boutique

For those who like their digs with a bit of character and style, Manila's acommodation ticks the boxes. The city’s most iconic luxury hotel is the Manila Hotel , originally built in 1909 and famous not only for being where General MacArthur lived during the war, but also where everyone from the Beatles to JFK has stayed. Nearby is the newly reopened Luneta Hotel , built in 1918 French Renaissance style; while art deco buffs will not want to miss out on Miramar Hotel , a 1930s masterpiece.

Manila hostels too are good quality. Boutique hostels Red Carabao   and Pink Manila ( http://pinkmanilahotel.com/ ) both have rooftop hangouts and draw a crowd of young travellers up for a party.

Architecture

Though the city was flattened during WWII, a few architectural beauties remain standing. Escolta St near Chinatown was Manila’s ritziest strip prior to the war, and today there are still examples of art deco, Beaux Arts and neoclassical architecture; the Escolta Museum has good information on its past, plus architectural models.

The National Museum of the Filipino People , Metropolitan Theater and Manila Central Post Office are other good examples of neoclassical architecture. Or for something a bit more eccentric, check out the ostentatious Coconut Palace , made almost entirely from coconut materials and commissioned by Imelda Marcos in anticipation of Pope John Paul II’s visit (who declined the invitation on the grounds that the money could have been spent better on alleviating poverty).

Day trips and city breaks

Finally, Manila is a good base for a number of day and overnight trips in the region. Most popular are trips to several volcanoes, including Mt Pinatubo with its moonscapes and scenic crater lake; Taal Volcano at pretty foodie town Tagaytay; or Mt Banahaw, where cult groups have set up camp along its base. For non-volcanic city breaks, travel to the heritage town Taal for fine colonial architecture, Corregidor Island for WWII history, or Anilao – the most popular diving and snorkelling spot close to Manila.

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Introduction

Metro Manila serves as the country’s economic and entertainment center, as well as a significant educational hub. With a population of more than 14 million people, it is one of Southeast Asia’s largest metropolitan areas.

There are 16 cities and one municipality in Metro Manila. The City of Manila, Quezon City, Caloocan, Las Pias, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Paranaque, Pasay, Pasig, San Juan, Taguig, and Valenzuela, as well as the municipality of Pateros, make up the metropolitan area. Metro Manila is a huge and bustling metropolis, however, there are many fascinating things to see and do in this massive metropolis.

A Glimpse into Manila’s Vibrant Past

Steeped in a tapestry of cultures and influences, Manila has a captivating history that dates back centuries. Originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, it became a trading hub during the Spanish colonial era and later served as an important strategic location for American forces during World War II. Today, remnants of these periods can be explored through various historical sites scattered throughout the city.

Teaser of Breathtaking Attractions

Prepare to be amazed as we unravel some of Manila’s most breathtaking attractions. Get ready to step back in time within the ancient walls of Intramuros – a well-preserved Spanish-era district boasting cobbled streets and magnificent architecture.

Marvel at the grandeur of Fort Santiago as you walk through its imposing gateways and learn about its haunting past. For art enthusiasts, the National Museum of the Philippines awaits open doors.

Admire famous masterpieces such as “The Spoliarium” by renowned Filipino artist Juan Luna or delve into the intricate gold collection showcasing Filipino craftsmanship at its finest. Nature lovers will find solace amidst urbanity at Rizal Park (Luneta), where sprawling green spaces provide respite from bustling city life.

Immerse yourself in tranquility within this urban oasis or witness an enchanting dancing fountain show that bedazzles visitors with its colorful synchronicity. For those with a gastronomic inclination, Binondo Chinatown beckons, offering a culinary adventure like no other.

Indulge in delectable dim sum feasts at Ying Ying Tea House or savor the crispy perfection of pork belly at Sincerity Café and Restaurant. Last but not least, dare to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems like Paco Park Cemetery.

This enchanting garden cemetery holds secrets within its walls and boasts an acoustic marvel known as the Whispering Wall. Stay tuned as we embark on a journey through Manila’s breathtaking attractions, immersing ourselves in its vibrant history, cultural marvels, natural wonders, culinary delights, and hidden gems that make this city truly unforgettable.

Are you ready to explore? Let’s dive in!

Must See Attractions in Manila

Metro Manila provides all the conveniences that any traveler might want, with its dense concentration of hotels, malls, and restaurants. Some of Asia’s most well-known attractions are found in this region, including historic sites from colonial times. It also has a wealth of excellent museums and galleries featuring artwork from throughout Asia.

• Quiapo Church
• Manila Ocean Park
• National Museum of the Philippines
• San Agustin Church and Museum
• Bonifacio Global City
• Newport City and Resorts World Manila
• Okada Manila
• Greenbelt Chappel
• Money Museum
• Arroceros Park
• Yexel’s Toy House
• Poblacion Makati
• Art in Island

The Best Shopping Malls

Metro Manila is a popular shopping destination for locals, tourists, and international visitors alike. People are frequently seen walking about with shopping bags packed with clothes or other items purchased from their favorite stores. The city’s largest shopping malls include SM Malls, Ayala Malls, and Robinsons Malls.

The popularity of these shopping malls is attributed to their location and size. Most are located right in the heart of Manila and they have a wide range of shops that include international brands. This is a list of some of the largest and most popular shopping malls in metro Manila:

• Mall of Asia
• Robinsons Place Mall
• SM Megamall
• Venice Grand Canal Mall
• Greenbelt Mall
• Robinsons Galleria
• Evia Lifestyle Center
• Festival Supermall
• Alabang Town Center
• Ayala Mall Manila Bay
• Santolan Town Plaza
• Newport Mall
• Uptown Place Mall
• Century City Mall
• Shangri-La Plaza
• Commercenter Alabang
• Eastwood Mall
• SM Light Mall
• Starmall Alabang
• Glorietta Mall
• SM City Manila
• Lucky Chinatown Mall

Shopping Street and Malls for Bargains

Bargain hunters from all over the world flock to Metro Manila every year. Clothing, household goods, gadgets, and food are just a few of the items that are discounted at numerous malls and retailers. There are many bargain shops in Metro Manila that you can explore with the help of this list. These shops are known for offering good products and services at a reasonable price.

• Divisoria Mall
• 168 Shopping Mall
• Green Hills Shopping Center
• Divisoria Market
• Taytay Tiangge
• Baclaran Market
• Cartimar Shopping Center
• Makati Cinema Square
• Riverbanks Center
• Quaipo Market
• Market Market

Great Places for a Drink or a Meal

Metro Manila is a massive metropolis with a wide range of eateries to suit any occasion. There is something for everyone, whether you want a quick bite at one of the roadside kiosks or a sit-down meal at one of the many restaurants. While roaming around the streets at night, you will come across an unending number of street food stalls selling a variety of delectable and reasonably priced dishes. Here are some of the best spots to eat and drink in the city.

• Buendia Food by The Court, San Isidro, Makati
• Arkipelago Food Park, San Antonio, Makati
• The Pallet, Poblacion, Makati
• Le Village Lifestyle Park, E. Rodriguez, Quezon City
• Z Compound, Malingap St., Quezon City
• F7 Pop-Up, Quezon City 
• Sagul Food Park, Quezon City
• Maginhawa Food Park, Quezon City
• Open Kitchen, Congressional Avenue, Quezon City
• Devour Food Hub, E. Rodriguez, Quezon City
• Sapphire Bloc, Pasig City
• United Street, Kapitolyo, Pasig City
• Better Living, Parañaque City 
• Greenfield District, Mandaluyong City
• Pilar Village, Las Piñas City
• Eden Food Hall, Bonifacio Global City , Taguig
• 8 Missouri Street, San Juan City 
• Recess Food Alley, Little Baguio , San Juan

Embracing Cultural Marvels

National museum of the philippines: immerse yourself in art and history.

When it comes to experiencing the vibrant culture and rich history of Metro Manila, a visit to the National Museum of the Philippines is an absolute must. This cultural haven, located in Manila’s bustling Ermita district, offers a captivating journey through various art forms and historical periods. As you step into its grand halls, get ready to be transported to a world brimming with artistic beauty and fascinating stories.

Fine Arts Galleries: Admiring masterpieces by Filipino artists

The Fine Arts Galleries at the National Museum are a treasure trove of artistic brilliance. Here, you’ll be captivated by awe-inspiring works created by Filipino masters throughout different eras.

From Juan Luna’s masterpiece “Spoliarium” which depicts scenes from Roman gladiator contests to Fernando Amorsolo’s radiant landscapes that evoke nostalgia for rural life, these galleries showcase the diverse talent that emanates from Philippine soil. As you wander through these halls adorned with carefully curated pieces, take your time to absorb the intricate details and emotions conveyed by each stroke of the brush.

The collection spans not only renowned painters but also emerging contemporary artists who encapsulate modern Filipino perspectives. Prepare to marvel at vibrant colors, thought-provoking themes, and artistic techniques that will leave an indelible impression on your soul.

Anthropology Exhibits: Learning about indigenous cultures and traditions

Adjacent to the Fine Arts Galleries lies another captivating realm within the National Museum – the Anthropology Exhibits. Here, you’ll embark on an enlightening journey through time as you explore indigenous cultures and traditions deeply rooted in Philippine heritage.

Immerse yourself in displays showcasing ancient artifacts, traditional costumes, tribal tools, and religious artifacts that provide a window into the rich tapestry of Filipino culture . From the majestic Cordillera tribes in Northern Luzon to the vibrant ethnic groups in Mindanao , these exhibits celebrate the diversity and resilience of indigenous communities across the archipelago.

Learn about their unique belief systems, customary practices, and captivating folklore that have shaped their identities for centuries. This immersive experience will broaden your perspective and deepen your appreciation for the cultural mosaic that makes up the Philippines .

Ayala Museum: Delving into Filipino art, culture, and heritage

Nestled in the heart of Makati City, Ayala Museum offers an extraordinary exploration of Filipino art, culture, and heritage. With its modern architecture seamlessly blending with traditional design elements, this museum beckons you to embark on a journey through time to unlock the essence of what it means to be Filipino.

Diorama Displays: Witnessing key moments in Philippine history

One of Ayala Museum’s highlights is its meticulously crafted diorama displays that bring key moments in Philippine history to life. Step back in time as you witness pivotal events like Lapu-Lapu’s victorious battle against Ferdinand Magellan or Jose Rizal’s impassioned speeches during the Propaganda Movement. These miniature scenes intricately recreate historical settings with astonishing attention to detail and accuracy.

As you observe these dioramas and listen to accompanying narratives, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how these events shaped Philippine society. It’s like being transported into an immersive time capsule where you can almost feel the emotions that coursed through our ancestors’ veins during significant turning points in our nation’s story.

Gold of Ancestors Exhibit: Marveling at pre-colonial gold artifacts

Prepare to be awestruck by Ayala Museum’s mesmerizing Gold of Ancestors exhibit. This collection showcases intricate pre-colonial gold artifacts that highlight the exceptional craftsmanship and artistic skill of our ancestors.

From intricately designed jewelry to ceremonial items, each piece tells a story of ancient Filipino cultures that revered gold not only for its aesthetic value but also for its symbolism. Gaze upon golden masks, diadems, and body adornments that reflect the opulence of our forebears.

These artifacts shed light on pre-colonial trade routes and cultural exchanges that existed long before colonial powers set foot on our shores. The Gold of Ancestors exhibit serves as a reminder of the wealth, ingenuity, and sophistication inherent in Filipino civilization even before external influences shaped our history.

Immersing oneself in the cultural marvels found within Metro Manila is a truly enriching experience. Whether it’s wandering through the art-filled halls of the National Museum or delving into Philippine history at Ayala Museum, these institutions offer an opportunity to connect with Philippine heritage in meaningful ways.

From admiring masterpieces by Filipino artists to witnessing key moments in history through diorama displays or marveling at pre-colonial gold artifacts, these cultural gems provide a glimpse into what makes the Philippines truly unique. So don’t miss out on exploring these stunning attractions and unraveling the rich tapestry of Metro Manila’s hidden wonders.

Nurturing Nature’s Beauty

Batanes-inspired landscapes at la mesa eco park.

Picture yourself stepping into an oasis of tranquility right in the heart of Metro Manila. Welcome to La Mesa Eco Park, where the breathtaking landscapes inspired by the picturesque province of Batanes will leave you in awe. As you stroll through this lush green haven, your eyes will be drawn to The Grand Lagoon, a serene body of water that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Hop aboard a boat and embark on a leisurely ride across The Grand Lagoon. Feel the cool breeze caress your face as you glide through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by towering trees and vibrant foliage.

Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s embrace while appreciating the striking beauty that unfolds before your eyes. For those seeking a unique perspective, venture into the Canopy Walk at La Mesa Eco Park.

Ascend to treetop level and traverse suspended walkways that allow you to explore the park from an entirely different vantage point. As you wander through these elevated trails, you’ll feel like you’re walking among giants, with sweeping views of the park’s lush canopy stretching out beneath your feet.

Pinto Art Museum in Antipolo City

In Antipolo City, just a short distance from Metro Manila lies Pinto Art Museum – a haven for art enthusiasts and seekers of serenity alike. This remarkable museum combines Mediterranean-inspired architecture with beautiful gardens that create an atmosphere ideal for reflection and appreciation of art.

Step into Pinto Art Museum’s Mediterranean-inspired galleries and prepare to be captivated by its extensive collection of contemporary Philippine art. Meander through hallways adorned with thought-provoking paintings and sculptures created by talented Filipino artists.

Let your senses soak up every stroke, color, and texture as each artwork tells its own unique story. What sets Pinto Art Museum apart is not only its remarkable art but also its tranquil surroundings.

Take a leisurely stroll through the museum’s serene gardens, where refreshing breezes rustle the leaves of lush foliage. Find a quiet spot amidst the verdant landscape to pause and reflect, allowing the natural beauty to wash over you.

Foodie Paradise: Savoring Manila’s Culinary Delights

Binondo chinatown: embark on a gastronomic adventure through the oldest chinatown in the world.

Imagine stepping into a vibrant and bustling neighborhood that is a melting pot of flavors and cultures. Binondo Chinatown, located in the heart of Manila, is not only known for its historical significance but also for being a food lover’s paradise. As you walk through its colorful streets, you’ll be greeted with the enticing aromas of sizzling street food and the sight of locals indulging in scrumptious delicacies.

Dim Sum Feast at Ying Ying Tea House

When it comes to authentic Chinese cuisine, no trip to Binondo would be complete without experiencing a dim sum feast at Ying Ying Tea House. This renowned establishment has been serving delectable dumplings and steamed buns since 1950.

As you enter this unassuming eatery, you’ll find yourself surrounded by locals relishing their favorite bites. Start your culinary adventure with classic favorites such as siu mai (steamed pork dumplings) and har gow (shrimp dumplings).

The delicate flavors and perfectly folded wrappers will transport your taste buds to another realm. Don’t forget to try their fluffy char siu bao (barbecue pork buns) which are filled with succulent chunks of marinated pork.

Crispy Pork Belly at Sincerity Café and Restaurant

If you’re craving something more indulgent, make your way to Sincerity Café and Restaurant for their mouthwatering crispy pork belly. This beloved establishment has been satisfying meat lovers’ cravings since 1956. Their secret recipe ensures that every bite is packed with flavor while maintaining that coveted crispy skin.

Sink your teeth into tender slices of juicy pork belly, perfectly complemented by a layer of melt-in-your-mouth fat. The accompanying dipping sauce adds a tangy kick that enhances the overall experience.

Pair this decadent dish with a bowl of steaming white rice to fully savor the rich flavors. Indulging in these culinary delights is an experience that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also immerse you in the vibrant culture of Binondo Chinatown.

So, embrace the hustle and bustle, explore hidden alleyways, and let your senses guide you through this gastronomic adventure. Binondo Chinatown offers an unforgettable journey for food enthusiasts seeking exceptional flavors and authentic experiences.

From savoring delectable dim sum at Ying Ying Tea House to indulging in crispy pork belly at Sincerity Café and Restaurant, you’ll be treated to a symphony of tastes that showcases Manila’s diverse culinary heritage. So, come with an empty stomach and an open mind as you embark on this foodie paradise escapade – it’s a feast you won’t want to miss!

The best Places to Stay in Metro Manila

Book your hotels on government-accredited accommodation. The purpose of hotel accreditation is to guarantee that the establishment meets government standards. A government quality mark can serve as a seal of approval for a company, as well as a guarantee of competence and integrity and a measure of quality. Hotels benefit from having an agreement because it helps them improve client satisfaction.

• ALLOWED HOTELS FOR QUARANTINE
• DOT-ACCREDITED HOTELS IN QUEZON CITY
• DOT-ACCREDITED HOTELS IN PASAY CITY

In conclusion, Manila is a city that never fails to impress visitors with its fascinating blend of ancient and modern landmarks, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a fan of architecture, Manila has something for everyone. A visit to this bustling metropolis is truly an unforgettable experience. So, why not plan your next trip to Manila and discover this incredible city for yourself?

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Manila is the capital city of the Philippines and serves as the centre of culture, economy, education, and government in the country. It is the most populous region of the country and is one of the most densely populated cities in the world.  Manila is the main gateway for international travellers going to the Philippines by flights. 

Officially known as the National Capital Region (NCR) or Metro Manila,  it is made up of the Cities of Manila ,  Makati ,  Quezon City , Parañaque City , Pasay City,  and Taguig City , to name a few.

A cosmopolitan city, Manila perfectly encapsulates a unique blend of urban sophistication and quirky vibrance. This is partly due to the fusion of Chinese and Spanish cultural influences, which are manifested through the well-preserved colourful buildings, temples, churches and cuisine. Whether you are a history buff or a night owl, Manila has a lot to offer.  Step back in time and immerse yourself in Manila's rich history by visiting Intramuros or get into the groove and experience the nightlife and dining precinct of the Makati District - either way, Manila is a beautiful and bustling metropolis that you will enjoy day or night.

Best Time To Go

Dry season - january to april.

If you have a lot of outdoor destinations included in your Manila itinerary, it's best to explore the city during the dry months of January to April. 

​ Holiday Season - September to December

The best months to go to Manila is during the "-ber" months of the year -  September, October, November, and December. This happens to be the time when the city is adorned with festive lights and colourful and bright Christmas decorations.

Getting To Manila

Manila is accessible from both international and local destinations by flights, mainly from the two international airports, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or Clark International Airport. Airport buses and taxis are available in the airport terminals. Manila has 4 airport terminals as follows: 

NAIA Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is the primary international airport in Manila. Serves all the international flights from and to Manila except for the ones operated by airlines in NAIA Terminal 2 and NAIA Terminal 3 . 

NAIA Terminal 2

Terminal 2 serves the domestic and international flights of the flag carrier of the country, the Philippine Airlines and PAL Express . This terminal is also known as the Centennial Terminal to commemorate the centennial declaration of the Philippine Independence.

NAIA Terminal 3

Terminal 3 caters to international flights operated by Cathay Pacific Air, AirAsia, Emirates Airline, Cebu Pacific Air, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Delta Air Lines, All Nippon Air, and Singapore Airlines , as well as domestic flights of Cebu Pacific Air. It also has a transit lounge (airport lounge).

NAIA Terminal 4

Terminal 4 caters to both domestic and regional services  from CebGo, AirSwift, and SkyJet . Some AirAsia flights depart from this terminal as well, so check your tickets closely.

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 it's packed with trips to many interesting attractions. 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 the Spanish rule. Intramuros is Manila's only district where travellers can see complete architectural remnants of the Spanish Era.  A day trip in Intramuros is enough for you to take in the historical significance of this well-preserved historical attraction.

You can feel yourself stepping back in time once you set foot in Intramuros. With its cobble-stoned streets, old churches, and historical relics, Intramuros is always worth a visit to those who are history enthusiasts as well as first-time travellers to Manila. As most of Intramuros’ walls, gates and ramparts are very accessible, it is best experienced on foot as you can walk along the top of the walls for all or part of their approximately 4.5km length thus experiencing sweeping views of the surrounding streets and golf course.

Fort Santiago

Situated at the northwestern end of Intramuros,  Fort Santiago guards the entrance to the Pasig River and is considered one of Manila's premier tourist spots and is one of the country's oldest Hispanic stone castles.  The site plays a significant role in Philippine colonial history as it was once the seat of the colonial power of both Spain and the United States, a prison and torture chamber under the Spanish regime, and the centre of countless military atrocities during the Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945.

In 1951, Fort Santiago became a national historical monument and a well-kept destination frequently visited by travellers. You can join a sightseeing and walking trip to explore this attraction.

The vast area south of Intramuros is dominated by Rizal Park, Manila’s primary green space and the locals' favourite meeting place since the Spanish era. These days, Rizal Park has been known as the go-to place for early morning joggers, a refuge for lovers, and an open area where children can run around freely during the weekends.

Located in the heart of Manila , it is a landmark full of historical significance. The park pays homage to the Philippine national hero, Dr Jose Rizal. Jose Rizal 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. Often referred to by its original name "Luneta",  Rizal Park features monuments, squares and gardens, large stadiums, observatories, an open-air concert hall, sound and light theatres, shops, food kiosks, playgrounds, and many fountains.

Ayala Museum

Located in the Central Business District of Makati , this gleaming museum features four floors of superbly curated exhibits on Filipino culture, art and history. Much of the museum's collection was donated by the Ayala family in 1967. 

At the heart of the collection located on the second floor, is a brilliant exhibit consisting of 60 dioramas that succinctly, yet effectively, trace the nation’s history, from pre-history to independence which kids will also love. Also included are three audiovisual presentations that feature the postwar period, the Marcos years and People Power in 1986. On the third floor, one can find the “Pioneers of Philippine Art” which showcases the museum’s wonderful collections of Juan Luna Realism, Fernando Amorsolo Impressionism and Fernando Zobel’s more abstract work. Make your way up to the fourth floor, to see the magnificent collection of pre-Hispanic goldware and textiles, created by the islands’ indigenous cultures from the tenth and thirteenth centuries. You can also see over a thousand gold objects on display most of which from Butuan in Mindanao, including the “Surigao Treasure”.  Moving along, you will find the extraordinary Gold Regalia, which is a huge chain of pure gold weighing 4kg and is said to have been worn by a Datu (chief). There is a huge collection of porcelain and ceramics, evidence of the country's pre-Hispanic trade links with Asia, especially the Song dynasty of China. 

Mall Of Asia

Located in Pasay City , near the Manila Bay and the southern end of Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA),   SM Mall of Asia or MOA is particularly famous among both domestic and international visitors. Opened in 2006, it is the fourth largest shopping mall in the Philippines and fourteenth in the world. SM Mall of Asia has several establishments within its shopping complex. The mall features everything from hundreds of chain and independent stores to attractions like an ice-skating rink and IMAX Theatre. Occupying a total of 20 hectares (50 acres) and 1.9 million floor tiles on reclaimed land along Manila Bay, it has quite a distance to cover with ample places to rest.  MOA is open every day from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm. If you happen to be there during the December holiday season, most shops normally remain open till 12 midnight. 

More Where To Go

Kacific satellite connectivity for Palawan tourism advancement

W ELL-KNOWN for its breathtaking scenery and thriving tourism sector, Palawan has enormous growth and development potential. However, amid its allure, the region faces a significant hurdle: the lack of reliable internet connectivity.

Recognizing this challenge, Kacific Broadband Satellites Inc. took a proactive step in addressing this issue through a groundbreaking event held on March 20, 2024 at Lime Resort El Nido.

Led by Kacific and its local internet service provider (ISP) Bambunet, in collaboration with the National ICT Confederation of the Philippines (NICP), El Nido Municipal Tourism Office, and DICT Palawan, the event aimed to showcase the transformative power of satellite broadband solutions in overcoming the connectivity barriers faced by Palawan tourism sector.

Attendees gathered for two insightful sessions. The morning session, attended by Disaster Management Offices and Local Government Units representatives, focused on harnessing technology for disaster preparedness and resilience-building.

In the afternoon session, dedicated to tourism enterprises, industry experts like Arvin Acosta of El Nido Municipal Tourism Office and Emma Concepcion Quillope of DTI Palawan explored sustainable tourism strategies and municipal tourism's vision for 2024 and beyond and digital marketing techniques.

Key to the event was Kacific's demonstration of a satellite broadband solution with a live demonstration of CCTV technology via Kacific's satellite internet.

Kacific senior sales director Ferdinand Simbulan aptly summarized the significance of satellite internet.

"Satellite internet is more than just technology; it is a gateway to opportunity, education, and economic empowerment for communities around the world," he said.

Visit www.kacific.com for more information.

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Return of Davao-Manila shipping service seen to boost Davao tourism

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Currently viewed by: Marcus Rosit

• by Rudolph Ian Alama
• Apr. 1, 2024 10:03 am in News

DAVAO CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) sees more tourism opportunities with the return of a passenger shipping route from Manila to Davao.

Transportation and logistics company 2GO recently launched MV 2GO Masigla with a weekly Davao-General Santos-Iloilo-Manila route. The ship, which is touted with cruise ship-like amenities, arrived on March 25 in Sasa Port, Davao City.

“This is additional connectivity, another option especially for a different market available. It is quite convenient if you’re from Manila. It is just two days,” said DOT regional director Tanya Rabat Tan.

She said the reopening of the Davao to Manila passenger shipping route can attract tourists as the ship boasts of hotel or cruise-ship amenities such as luxurious air conditioned accommodations, restaurants, bars, arcade, KTV room, café, sundeck and souvenir shops.

“We welcome this chance kasi parang wala pa tayong ganito sea transport for tourists, ” Rabat Tan said.

She added that with the coming of these vessels and its potentials of bringing in tourists, there is a need to improve the port facilities in Davao.

“We need to touch base with our counterpart in the seaport,” Rabat Tan said.

Currently, there is a passenger terminal building in Sasa which has been fixed up in time for the resumption of the passenger shipping route. Passenger ships ceased their Davao-Manila route in 2011, was resumed in 2018 but was discontinued in 2019.

Francis Chua, marketing head of 2GO said that a bigger passenger terminal would be needed at the Sasa Port if the passenger route would grow.

“In fact, ang gusto po naming tingnan is papaano ba palalakihin ang capacity ng port para mas maraming pasahero ang mag-eenjoy,” Chua said.

(What we would like to see is how we can increase the capacity of the port so that many more passengers would enjoy.)

As for tourism potentials of the reopened passenger shipping route, Chua said that 2GO is coordinating with DOT to present a more accessible and affordable travel choice for Filipinos and tourists wanting to visit various destinations in the country.

“Hindi lahat ng lugar sa Pilipinas mayroong airport, if you travel from your home to the airport it will entail you added cost. Ang ginagawa ng 2GO is at least yung tinatawag nating door-to-door. Paglabas nila sa bahay dadalhin po sila ng bus at dadalhin sa pier, pagsakay sa barko automatic ihahatid sa next na pier,” Chua said. 

(Not all areas in the Philippines have airports,if you travel from your home to the airport it will entail you added cost. What 2GO does is at least what we call door-to-door. When they go out of the house they will be taken by bus to the pier, when they get to the ship they will be taken to the next pier.)

He added that the ships, being part of the SM group, can have more affordable fuel costs for the ships.

“We really make sure na we become very affordable sa lahat ng  klaseng gustong bumiyahe. Hindi lang po yung mg gustong magbakasyon but also even yung mga nagnenegosyo,” Chua said.

(We become very affordable to all types of people who are traveling, not just those traveling for vacation but also those with businesses). (RGA/PIA Davao)

• Department of Tourism
• MV 2GO Masigla

About the Author

Rudolph Ian Alama

Regional Editor

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