Manila is the bustling, vibrant, and contrasting capital of the Philippines, where colonial architecture stands alongside skyscrapers, and traditional markets coexist with luxury shopping malls. This city, with its rich history, unique cuisine, and incredible energy, is a must-include in any travel itinerary.
In this article, we will talk about the 5 most interesting places in Manila that every tourist should visit. You will learn:
Intramuros (Spanish for “within the walls”) is the oldest district of Manila, built by the Spaniards in the 16th century. It is a true open-air museum where every stone breathes history.
✔ Fort Santiago – the fortress where national hero Jose Rizal was held before his execution. His prison cell and personal belongings have been preserved.
✔ Manila Cathedral – a majestic Catholic cathedral in the Neo-Romanesque style that has survived several earthquakes and wars.
✔ Casa Manila – a museum recreating the lifestyle of the 19th-century Philippine nobility with original furniture and interiors.
✔ San Agustin Church – the only building in Intramuros that has survived since the era of Spanish rule (1607).
Address: Intramuros, Manila
How to get there: Taxi (about 150 pesos from Makati) or Metro to Central Terminal Station
Cost: Entrance to Fort Santiago — 75 pesos, combined ticket to museums — 200 pesos
This huge park (58 hectares!) in the center of Manila is the site where Philippine independence was proclaimed. It houses the mausoleum of national hero Jose Rizal.
✔ Rizal Monument – the exact site of his execution in 1896. A changing of the guard ceremony takes place daily.
✔ Giant Relief Map of the Philippines – a relief map of the entire archipelago the size of a football field.
✔ National Museum – a collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the present.
✔ Orchid and Butterfly Gardens – tropical plants and hundreds of butterfly species.
Free dance lessons – on Sundays near the main stage
“Clock of History” Fountain – a light and music show in the evenings (19:00 and 20:00)
Boat ride – a mini-cruise along the park canals (150 pesos)
The world’s oldest Chinatown outside of China (founded in 1594) is a true explosion of flavors, aromas, and cultural color. Here you can try the best Peking duck outside of China and famous Filipino-Chinese delicacies.
✔ Binondo Church – a unique synthesis of Catholicism and Chinese architecture
✔ Tiangge Market – a sea of fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and spices
✔ Dong Bei Dumplings – iconic hand-rolled dumplings since the 1930s
✔ Eng Bee Tin Bakery – home of the legendary mooncakes
Address: Ongpin St, Binondo
How to get there: Metro to Recto Station + 10 min walk
Budget: Street food from 50 pesos, restaurants from 200 pesos
Best time: Morning (8:00-11:00) for the market, evening for dinner
Tip: Take a food tour with a local guide (about 1500 pesos)
The financial center of the Philippines, featuring skyscrapers, luxury boutiques, and the liveliest nightlife. The contrast with colonial Manila is striking!
✔ Ayala Museum – an interactive history of the Philippines through art objects
✔ Greenbelt Mall – a shopping complex with a tropical garden and a chapel
✔ Bars at Poblacion – the epicenter of nightlife (try a cocktail with calamansi)
Area: Makati Central Business District
Transport: Taxi or Grab (cheaper than hailing on the street)
Prices: 2-3 times higher than in other districts
Insta-spots: Sky Deck on the 68th floor of Gramercy Residences
The largest collection of Philippine art and history in three interconnected buildings.
Address: P. Burgos Drive, Rizal Park
Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
Lifehack: Start from the 3rd floor of the Fine Arts Museum — the main masterpieces are there
