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Manila, Philippines - Things to Do in Manila

Things to Do in Manila

Manila, Philippines - Complete Travel Guide

Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, is a sprawling metropolis that serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural heart. This bustling city of over 13 million people in the greater metro area offers visitors a fascinating blend of Spanish colonial heritage, American influences, and modern Filipino culture. From the cobblestone streets of historic Intramuros to the glittering skyscrapers of Makati, Manila presents a captivating contrast between old and new. The city is renowned for its warm hospitality, incredible street food scene, and rich historical significance as a former Spanish colonial stronghold. Visitors can explore centuries-old churches, world-class museums, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife districts. Despite its reputation for traffic and urban chaos, Manila rewards patient travelers with authentic cultural experiences, affordable luxury, and some of the most genuine interactions you'll find in Southeast Asia.

Top Things to Do in Manila

Explore Intramuros Historic District

Wander through Manila's walled colonial city, built by the Spanish in the 16th century. This historic district features cobblestone streets, ancient churches, museums, and well-preserved fortifications that tell the story of Philippines' colonial past. Don't miss Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and Casa Manila for a complete historical experience.

Booking Tip: Walking tours cost $15-25 per person and are best booked in the morning to avoid afternoon heat. Look for guides certified by the Department of Tourism who can provide historical context and access to restricted areas.

Take a Food Tour Through Local Markets

Immerse yourself in Manila's incredible culinary scene by exploring traditional markets and street food stalls. Sample iconic Filipino dishes like adobo, lechon, halo-halo, and balut while learning about local ingredients and cooking techniques. These tours often include visits to Binondo (Chinatown) and local neighborhood markets.

Booking Tip: Food tours range from $25-45 per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Book tours that start in the late afternoon to experience both day and evening food scenes, and ensure the operator provides bottled water and wet wipes.

Visit Rizal Park and National Museum Complex

Spend a day at this sprawling urban park dedicated to national hero Dr. José Rizal, featuring gardens, monuments, and cultural attractions. The nearby National Museum complex houses impressive collections of Filipino art, natural history, and archaeological artifacts that provide deep insights into Philippine culture and heritage.

Booking Tip: Entry to Rizal Park is free, while National Museum admission costs around $3. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and allocate 4-5 hours to properly explore both locations. Guided tours cost $20-30 and provide valuable historical context.

Experience Manila Bay Sunset

Witness one of Asia's most famous sunsets along Manila Bay's waterfront promenade or from a bay cruise. The area comes alive in the evening with street performers, food vendors, and families gathering to watch the spectacular golden hour. Consider combining this with dinner at a bayfront restaurant for the complete experience.

Booking Tip: Sunset cruises cost $15-30 per person and should be booked during dry season (November-April) for best visibility. Choose operators with good safety records and recent reviews, and arrive 30 minutes early to secure the best viewing spots.

Discover Binondo Chinatown

Explore the world's oldest Chinatown, established in 1594, where Chinese-Filipino culture thrives through traditional shops, temples, and restaurants. Walk through narrow streets filled with herbal medicine shops, gold jewelry stores, and authentic Chinese-Filipino eateries serving dishes like tikoy and siopao.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, while guided walking tours cost $20-35 per person. Visit during weekday mornings when shops are open but crowds are lighter. Look for tours that include food tastings and temple visits for the most comprehensive experience.

Getting There

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) serves as Manila's main gateway, located about 7km south of the city center. The airport has four terminals serving both international and domestic flights, with major airlines connecting Manila to cities worldwide. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center via taxi (30-60 minutes, $8-15), airport shuttle services, or the newer Airport Express bus system. The NAIA Expressway provides a faster route during peak hours, though Manila's notorious traffic can significantly extend travel times.

Getting Around

Manila's transportation system includes jeepneys (colorful public buses), tricycles, taxis, ride-sharing apps (Grab), and the MRT/LRT rail systems. The Metro Rail Transit connects major districts and is often the fastest way to travel during rush hours, costing less than $1 per ride. Jeepneys are an authentic local experience at around $0.20 per ride, while taxis and Grab rides cost $2-8 for most city trips. Traffic congestion is severe, especially during peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-8 PM), so plan extra travel time and consider the rail system for longer distances.

Where to Stay

Makati Business District
Bonifacio Global City (BGC)
Malate Tourist Belt
Ermita
Ortigas Center
Intramuros

Food & Dining

Manila's food scene ranges from world-class fine dining to incredible street food, reflecting the city's diverse cultural influences. The Poblacion district in Makati offers trendy restaurants and craft cocktails, while traditional Filipino cuisine can be found in neighborhoods like Malate and Binondo. Don't miss trying local specialties like adobo, sisig, and lechon at establishments ranging from high-end restaurants in BGC to authentic carinderias (local eateries). Street food is exceptional and safe when chosen carefully - look for busy stalls with high turnover, and try Filipino-Chinese fusion dishes in Binondo or fresh seafood at Dampa markets.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Philippines

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Manam Comfort Filipino

4.7 /5
(4395 reviews) 2

Manam Cafe

4.9 /5
(2772 reviews)

Manam Greenbelt

4.7 /5
(2513 reviews) 2

Manam | Robinsons Place

4.8 /5
(2274 reviews)

Manam

4.8 /5
(1846 reviews)

Lydia's Lechon Bucal Bypass - The Best Lechon in Manila

4.9 /5
(942 reviews)
meal_takeaway store
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When to Visit

The best time to visit Manila is during the dry season from December to April, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable. December to February offers the coolest weather (24-30°C/75-86°F) and is considered peak tourist season. March to May becomes hotter and more humid but still remains dry. The wet season (June-November) brings heavy rains, typhoons, and high humidity, though this period offers fewer crowds and lower prices. Avoid September and October when typhoon activity is highest, but consider the shoulder months of June or November for a balance of good weather and value.

Insider Tips

Download offline maps and the Grab app before arriving, as internet connectivity can be spotty and navigation challenging for first-time visitors
Always carry small bills (20 and 50 peso notes) for jeepneys, tricycles, and street vendors who rarely have change for large denominations
Visit malls during extreme heat or rain - they're air-conditioned, have clean restrooms, free WiFi, and often house excellent local restaurants and cultural exhibits

Explore Activities in Manila