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Things to Do in Manila

Rizal Park
Spread over 60 hectares, Rizal Park is a renowned national landmark and one of the best places to visit in Manila. Famous for around forty worth visiting places in the park from ornamental gardens, ponds, monuments and more.

It is one of the most visited tourist places. Visit the Rizal Monument which is an epitome of nationalism, or the drinking fountain known as the place where Rizal studied. You can also visit the Central Lagoon and Chess Plaza as it will leave an indelible imprint in your mind.

Location: Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Rizal Monument
- Drinking Fountain
- Central Lagoon
- Open Air Auditorium
- Chess Plaza.
Manila Ocean Park
One of the most famous marine parks in Manila, this ocean park is a remarkable and fascinating holiday destination. Offering enchanting views of the vivid marine life, this park is a spectacle of diverse attractions.

From various activities like the augmented reality encounter, sea lion show to the world of creepy crawlies, neon rides and super toy collection, the park is a treasure of joy and happiness and makes for one of the perfect places to see in Manila.

Location: Quirino Grandstand, 666 Behind, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- All Star Bird Show
- Jellies Exhibit
- Oceanarium
- Penguin Talk Show
- Trails to Antarctica.
San Agustin Church
Known as one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, the colossal semblance enshrouds the embellished interiors replete with objects of historical and cultural importance. The embowed roof showcases the frescoes and you can also witness the tropical cloisters along with the gardens.

San Agustin Church is one of the buildings that was not completely destroyed in World War II and also has a San Agustin Museum which is worth a visit as you can catch a sight of illustrious valuables of Old Manila.

Location: General Luna St, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Objects of historical and cultural significance
- Frescoes
- Tropical Cloisters
- Gardens
- San agustin Museum.
Fort Santiago
Dating back to the 1500s, Fort Santiago holds a significant history and is also known for the imprisonment of Philippines national hero Jose Rizal.

It is one of the most historical places to visit in Manila and is also home to Statuary Park which is a garden with massive statuaries and the Military Nerve Center that possesses a statue of Rizal and is a tribute to him. This fort also has some of the other major places worth visiting.

Location: Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Military Nerve Center
- Statuary Park
- Rizal Shrine
- Bateria de Santa Barbara.
Manila Zoo
Step into the nature’s abode surrounded by lush greenery and a variety of wildlife from Bengal Tiger, Malayan Civet, goose, Asian elephant, peafowl, storks etc. If you love the flora and fauna and like being close to nature, this is one of the best places to visit in Manila.

You can also witness the Wildlife Rescue Centre and Botanical Arboretum rich in diverse flora. You can explore the zoo at your own pace with boat rentals and also visit the souvenir shop to take memories back home.

Location: M. Adriatico St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Innumerable Wildlife
- Wildlife Rescue Centre
- Botanical Arboretum
- Boat Rentals
- Souvenir Shops.
National Museum Of The Philippines
The National Museum of the Philippines can be considered as the most sought after places to visit in Manila that takes care of various national museums located in the Philippines. It is a centre of ethnographic, archaeological, anthropological, and visual arts collection.

The National Museum is also known as Pambansang Museo in the local dialect. The museum was constructed in the year 1901 and is a major agency for research and conservation programs in Manila. 

Location: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

Highlights:
- An educational, scientific and cultural institution
- Preserves, exhibits, documents and scholarly study materials
Intramuros
Intramuros, which is also called the Walled City, happens to be a bustling tourist place in Manila that nestles around the South Bank of Pasig River. The walled city was constructed in the year 1571  by Spaniards mainly Migual Lopez de legaspi. This place is popular for its historical heritage and has been standing tall dealing with a number of natural calamities strongly and steadily.

It is home to some of the beautiful churches, ancient monuments and gorgeous gardens. This place has also served as the seat of the Spanish power in the past. Heading over to this beautiful place, you will be able to learn a lot about the historical timelines. 

Location: National Capital Region, Manila, 

Highlights:
- Center of the Spanish occupation
- Residence for Spanish government officials and their families
Arroceros Forest Park
Arroceros Forest Park is nothing less than a hidden gem in the beautiful city of Manila and is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Manila. The forest park is surrounded by dense green trees providing an intimidating yet peaceful experience topped with stunning brooks and is one of the most clean and green places amidst the chaotic city. You can also witness the ornamental plants including avifauna which is a rare breed.

Location: 659 A Antonio Villegas St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Brooks
- Sceneries
- Ornamental Plants.
Manila Cathedral
Dating back to 1581, Manila Cathedral is an epitome of robustness and has passed the test of time and fortitude. Destroyed and damaged multiple times by fire, earthquakes and World War II, the cathedral still stands tall and is one of the most important heritage highlights.

The Bronze Panel provides you insights into the history of this cathedral and the fascinating and intricate interiors possess one of the largest pipe organs and other intriguing features.

Location: Beaterio St, Cabildo St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Bronze Panels
- Pipe Organs.
Robinsons Place Mall
One of the finest malls in the Philippines, Robinsons Place has seven storeys with the most premium and luxury brands of apparels, cosmetics, merchandise and more.

With a plethora of entertainment options along with numerous retail stores and gaming zones, this place makes for a perfect day outing with family. You can also choose from a variety of meals from the dining outlets after you are tired and done with your shopping.

Location: Pedro Gil St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Entertainment Facilities
- Gaming Zone
- Dining Outlets
- Premium Brands.
Divisoria Market
Located in the heart of Manila, Divisoria Market is always crowded and bustling with vendors, eateries and people on a shopping spree. With everything available at the market, you can buy gadgets, vivid fabrics, textiles, accessories, electronics, home decor and more at cheap prices. Do not miss out on the delicious local street food here along with paying a visit to the malls.

Location: 557 M. De Santos St, San Nicolas, Manila, 1010 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Malls
- Cheap Goods
- Eateries
- All Merchandise.
Paco Park And Cemetery
Built for the colonial elite in 1807, this park was open for the burial of cholera victims and then later was the burial ground for the people who belonged to Spanish high society.

There is also a chapel at the centre of the park which is dedicated to St Pancratius and is visited by the people. Paco Park is also a popular venue for weddings, concerts, photo shoots and artists. It is a quiet and romantic place reminding us about the history of Manila.

Location: Belen, Paco, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Roman Catholic Chapel
- Repositories of Governor.
National Museum Of Fine Arts
Possessing numerous beautiful paintings and sculptures of some of the famous classical artists of the Philippines including Juan Luna, Félix Resurrección Hidalgo and Guillermo Tolentino and more.

Every painting and every masterpiece in the National Museum of Fine Arts evokes emotion and depicts a story of the past. The four floors of the museum are worth seeing and makes for one of the most insightful places to visit in Manila.

Location: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- The Sandigan Reception Hall
- Planting of the First Cross
- The Art of Claude Tayag
- Spolarium.
Ayala Museum
Explore the culture, art and history of the Philippines through the Ayala Museum which is one of the best places to go in Manila. The four floors of the museum displays the dioramas depicting the history, captivating textile collection and graceful pieces of Pre-Hispanic gold jewelry.

The rotating arts are one of the highlights of the museum showing the Luna and Amorsolo and it is recommended to visit the museum with guides to ensure an insightful experience.

Location: Greenbelt Park, Makati Avenue, corner Dela Rosa Street, Ayala Center, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Luna
- Amorsolo
- Textile Collection
- Dioramas
- Pre-Hispanic Gold Jewelry.
Greenbelt Chapel
Also popular as the Chapel of Santo Niño de Paz, this church is one of the best places to see in Manila. Embraced by lush greenery, this church is well appreciated for its architecture and allures the tourists from around the world because of its beauty, open air and a beautiful walkway.

The roof resembles a soldier’s cap and the church is encapsulated by serene ponds and sculptures offering a peaceful experience away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Location: Makati Ave, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Architecture
- Walkway
- Roof in the shape of Soldier's Cap.
Binondo Church
One of the oldest places of worship, Binondo has been constructed thrice and still retains remnants of its original structure and is one of the beautiful places to go in Manila. The church is usually bustling with people from different religions, nationalities and caste. The church was initially known as Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish.

Location: Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, Binondo, 1006 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Octagonal Bell Tower
- Architecture
- Facade.
Manila City Hall
Manila City Hall is one of the must places to see in Manila and is shaped like a coffin to honour the brave who died during the Battle of Manila. The city hall narrates tales from the spanish settlement and is also one of the most significant landmarks in the city. The offices are held here by the Mayor and chambers of Manila city council. It also provides riveting views from the balcony of the city hall.

Location: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Clock Tower Dome
- Architecture.
Star City Amusement Park
One of the best places to visit in Manila, Star city Amusement Park is bustling with people all year round and is one of the most popular amusement parks in Philippines. The theme decor is what allures the tourists here along with over 30 crazy rides and attractions.

The park is suitable for people of all age groups because of varied fun activities available and hence, makes for one of the best destinations for a family vacation. It is a wonderful break from the monotonous routine and you can enjoy the toy chest, snow world, tornado and spinning coaster here.

Location: CCP Complex, Sotto Corner Jalandoni Street, 1300 Roxas Blvd, Pasay, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Egyptian Spinning Coaster
- Toy Chest
- Art Alive Museum
- Adventure Zone
- Star Dome
- Snow World
- Tornado.
Manila Baywalk
Manila Baywalk is nothing less than the heart of the city since it is the most lively and vibrant places with a plethora of famous cafes, live bands and open air bars. Witness the most beautiful sunsets along with the surreal golden skies, refreshing breezes and calm waters.

Manila baywalk offers pure bliss and relaxation and you can also witness the yachts anchored here. Explore a variety of cuisines or visit one of the largest malls in Asia, this is one of the best places to visit in Manila.

Location: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Iconic Sunsets
- Manila Yacht Club
- Roxas Boulevard
- Cultural Centre
- Scenic Views
- Open Air Bars
- Live Bands
- SM Mall of Asia.
Casa Manila
Witness the stories of the past and step into the history through Casa Manila, one of the best museums in the city. This colonial house has an incredible architecture and takes us back to the lifestyle of the people of the 19th century.

The interior is something to be witnessed here along with some other interesting things including the double-seated toilet. This vintage house is also adorned with authentic and aesthetic artwork and furniture.

Location: Plaza sans luis complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines.

Highlights:
- Architecture
- Artworks
- Furniture.

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Manila Things To Do FAQs

What are the best things to do in Manila?

1. Go back in time at the old city of Intramuros: Intramuros dates back to almost years in the past when it happened to be the colony’s centre and walls were constructed to keep it protected from all the foregin invasions. In those times, only the elite class residents were able to stay there.

At the present times, it is certainly an old world charm that is lined up with some of the beautiful spanish houses converted into exhibition halls, beautiful churches, parks, and museums. You will get a chance to visit the historical sites like Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, San Agustin Museum, and Casa Manila.

Location: Manila.
Price: Php 75.00 per head.

2. Go on a food crawl around Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown: Manila offers wonderful food crawls in the course of your visit at some of the affordable eateries serving hot and delicious chinese delicacies. You can relish dim sums dipped in hot sauce, roasted duck, lumpiang Shanghai (egg rolls with meat, fish, and vegetables), mami (noodle soup), and hopia (bean-filled pastry).

Once you are in the city, you can make your own food itinerary and join a Big Binondo Food Wok with Ivan Man Dy to take a legendary culinary journey of Manila. Taking part in these things to do in Manila experience, you will be able to learn more about some of the historic places as well.

Location: Manila.

3. Get a breathtaking view of the Manila Bay sunset: Watching the setting sun at the Manila Bay is one of the most sought after things to see in Manila for tourists coming over from various parts of the world.

Once the sun starts to begin its process of setting down the azure blue ocean, the tourists start to gather at the Manila bay to witness the world renowned view taking a leisurely walk along the Baywalk on Roxas Boulevard.

Location: Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila.

3. Explore this urban park dedicated to Jose Rizal, the country’s national hero: Jose Rizal happens to be one of the top tourist attractions in manila that is located after a short walk from Intramuros.

This is one of the largest urban parks in Asia and is a favourite spot to relax. The park has also got some historical significance for Filipinos. The park is spread over an area of about 58 hectares and it houses the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal.

Location: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila.

4. See your aquatic dreams come to life at Manila Ocean Park: The Manila Ocean Park, Oceanarium happens to be a world class marine park that is a venue for school trips and romantic date spots.

This place is not just a place to stop and stare at the aquatic creatures, but you can indulge in a number of things to see in Manila at the amusement park.

Location: Quirino Grandstand, 666 Behind, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila.

5. Go bargain hunting at Divisoria’s 168 Shopping Mall: Divisoria’s 168 Shopping Mall happens to be one of the top favorite shopping destinations for visitors. You can literally get anything and everything at this place at the most affordable prices. You can bargain at almost all the stores to get a great deal on products like shoes, clothes, party favours, souvenirs, tools and school supplies.

Location: 918 Soler St, Binondo, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila.

6. Immerse yourself in amazing art, history, and architecture at the National Museum: The national museum is an amazing place for art lovers as well as history buffs as it displays some of the priceless national treasures of the times gone by.

You will get to find some of the artworks of the renowned Filipino painter Juan Luna like Spoliarium and many more things to see in Manila. Visiting the Museum of natural history, you will also get to see some of the gorgeous architectural designs that houses the skeletal remains of Lolong.

Location: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila.

7. Spend the night at the Manila Hotel, Philippines’ oldest premiere hotel: In the course of your visit, you must make sure that you spend a night at the elegant five star hotel which has been serving the tourists since the year 1909.

This is one of the most loved Things to do in Manila, as this oldest premiere hotel has served a number of notable figures like Ernest Hemingway, Michael Jackson, John F. Kennedy, and The Beatles in the past. Staying at this place, you will be able to see brilliant views of the Manila bay and the old city of Intramuros. The hotel offers you a stay in the middle of impeccable interior decors, high ceiling, special designated champagne room, and a lavish multi cuisine restaurant that is just perfect for a romantic stay.

Location: One Rizal Park, Manila, Philippines, 0913.

What are the things to do in Manila at night?

1. Watch the sunset at Manila Bay: Enjoying dusk in Manila Bay could be the most loved thing to do in Manila and is a perfect way to end your day. The marvellous sight when the nightfall turns the skies, ocean and the land into gold can take your stresses away. Manila Bay is one of the finest places in the world to observe the sun go down, particularly along Roxas Boulevard.

2. Bargain shop till you drop at Tutuban Night Market: Sometimes you ought to unwind and loosen up with a great shopping spree. Tutuban Night Market, fair as the title recommends, offers a non-stop shopping experience starting at 6 pm where customers have over 330 stalls to browse in. Enjoy Tutuban Virtual Zoo and Tutuban Food Strip besides shopping.

3. Try your luck at the City of Dreams: A world-class 24/7 open casino called the City of Dreams is an ideal place to spend your free night not investing your cash but attempting your luckiness to win more. The 201,823 square feet space incorporates a 365 table diversion with an assortment of recreations like Baccarat, Poker, and Blackjack, as well as over 1,600 gaming machines.

4. Go clubbing at Black Market: Black Market may be a semi-exclusive club in Makati where you'll be able to head over for a Friday night of grooving to the city’s best DJs. They moreover have a bar and a few beautiful Instagram-worthy hangout spots and most outstandingly, Black Market has Bad Decision Wednesdays where you'll dance to the Billboard top 100 songs.

What are the romantic things to do in Manila?

1. Take a sunset or evening cruise along the bay: Appreciate the ocean breeze and the sight of the city’s horizon whereas you cruise along Manila Bay. Appreciate scrumptious dinner of Filipino cuisine over the view of palette-sky caused by the sinking sun.

2. Watch fireworks together: Each Saturday evening, Mall of Asia’s bay side usually features firecrackers. An apparent cliché but ostensibly still enjoyable activity, watching together as the sky bursts in colours has its own brand of enchantment.

3. Go on a Manila walking tour: Walk on Intramuros’ cobbled roads and take in the colonial buildings and churches to see striking heritage structures like Intramuros’ and Escolta’s or spend a lackadaisical day exploring the National Museum of Fine Art and National Museum of Anthropology.

4. Have a spa date: Enjoy a couple’s massage and unwind together as all the stretch channels away from your body. Spa dates require not just be about massages. A few spas, like Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens and Spa in Antipolo, also have massage pools and infinity pools with breathtaking views.

How to reach Manila?

- By flight: Manila happens to be connected with almost 30 countries in the world. Major international airlines like JetAirways, Singapore, AirIndia, and Thai Airways take off and land in the city. The international getaway to all the tourists coming from various parts of the world is Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

- By buses and ferries: You can also reach Manila city by buses and ferries from nearby cities. Buses and ferries mainly serve the domestic means of transport. You can easily get from one place to another conveniently as they operate in frequent intervals.

What is the best time to visit Manila?

The best time to visit Manila would be from the month of January to the month of April. This is the time of the year when the climatic condition remains almost dry, which makes it easy for taking part in the outdoor activities without any inconveniences. Tourists love to head out and take part in various Things to do in Manila at this time of the year as they don't need to tackle the drizzles.

Do we need a visa to visit Manila?

There is no need to have a visa to visit Manila if your stay is not going to exceed 59 days. However, as per the regulations, you need to have a valid return ticket to the country of origin or any other next country of destination. Most importantly, your passport should atleast have 6 months of expiry.

What is Manila known for?

Manila is widely popular as a wonderful tourist destination in the world that offers the tourists with some breathtaking views of nature and loads of Things to do in Manila.

You can spend time in a lively atmosphere to enjoy with your loved ones, and visit some of the places of heritage and cultural significance. In the course of your visit, you must spend time at Manila Intramuros, Divisoria Market, Manila Ocean Park, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, Binondo – Manila's Chinatown, and Ayala Museum.

Is Manila worth visiting?

Yes, Manila is definitely worth visiting with your loved ones as you will be able to enjoy a whole new way of living. This holiday destination in the world offers you all kinds of enjoyment at an affordable expense for everyone. You can visit some of the sightseeing places and attractions, take part in some adventure things to do as well as indulge in some offbeat activities.

How to reach Manila from India?

There are no direct flights from India to Manila. If you wish to travel from India to Manila, then you would need to fly via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Bangkok to reach Manila. Some of the popular flight operators to the Philippines are Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, SilkAir, GoAir, Cathay Pacific, AirAsia X, Emirates, and Air India.

How many days should I spend in Manila?

In order to make the most of your visit to Manila, you would at least need to spend 3 - 4 days.

- On the first day of your visit, you can head out on an Intramuros tour, visit the national museum, and enjoy the pristine views of the sunset at the Mall of Asia.
- On the second day of the trip, you will be heading out to visit Taal Heritage town and also get a chance to enjoy the sunset at a restaurant in Tagaytay overlooking the views of Taal Volcano.
- On the third day of the tour, you will do the Binondo Food wok and shop at the famous Greenhills shopping Center.
- On the last day of the stay, you can visit the Mind Museum and Bonifacio Global City, get a rejuvenating massage at wellness hubs, and take a Poblacion Food crawl.

What are the best things to do in Manila with family?

1. Chow down on local specialties: Relishing the local specialities along with your family members is just amazing. In the course of your visit, you can taste Adobo , Sinigang , Sisig, and Kare-Kare.

2. Hunt for street art: Street art culture is very much popular in Manila. You will get to see brilliant pieces of art in the streets, walkways, and buildings. On a trip with your art loving family, you can spend time visiting the public art galleries and be a part of the Art BGC Festival.

3. Go food-tripping around Binondo: Binondo is a very well known place for culture buffs and food lovers. You can find more than 100 restaurants and authentic food hotspots that offer traditional delicacies to the guests. You can enjoy upscale family style buffet chinese dining.

4. Go bargain-hunting: If you and your family members love shopping, then you have come over to one of the best places where you satisfy your shopaholic soul. You can visit weekend markets,bazaars, thrift stores and antique stores spread all over the city.

What are the offbeat things to do in Manila?

1. Ride a bamboo bicycle around Intramuros: You can book guided activities to do in Manila tour around Intramuros and visit Fort Santiago, the Baroque San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral. Taking this tour, you will be able to learn more about the history of the place.

2. Experience top festivals, food & iconic landmarks in one space: In the course of your visit, you will be getting a chance to take part in one of the most loved activities to do in Manila i.e., walk through the replicas of some iconic landmarks that are found all over the country. You will also relish some of the regional cuisines, see some rare handwoven textiles, and take part in traditional folk dances.

3. Go liquor-tasting on craft spirits: If you are someone who loves to drink and taste a wide range of liquor, then this tasting tour activity to do in Manila is just perfect for you. You will visit Destileria Limtaxo, which happens to be the oldest and largest distillery in the Philippines.

4. Hunt for street art: You can spend time admiring the artworks on walls of the street and at various public places. This will surely impress you and entice you to capture some snaps.

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