Vast and sprawling, Manila at first sight can be daunting. One of the largest cities in the world and still growing, this metropolis of sixteen towns seems impossible to navigate. With no obvious centre, the new visitor can find themselves bewildered by the crowded streets, dense traffic and frantic pace. But spend a little time among its friendly people, learn a little of its fascinating but volatile history, and its charms will soon get under your skin.
Manila has been under occupation by the Spanish, British, Japanese and Americans, and has been destroyed many times by natural disasters including fires and earthquakes. More recently, the tragic devastation wrought by bombing raids during the Second World War brought the city to its knees. Now, thanks to an ambitious programme of reconstruction, many of the city’s historic buildings have been preserved for posterity.
Intramuros is the oldest area and one of the main focuses for tourism. This ancient walled city is surrounded by sturdy fortifications built by the Spanish in the 16th century to repel hostile invaders. Most of the walls were left in ruins by wartime bombing, but the remaining parts have been sympathetically restored. Follow the walkways to the Baluarte de San Andres and the Baluarte de San Diego to appreciate their strategic position overlooking Manila Bay and the Pasig river. Nearby Fort Santiago houses the Rizal Shrine, dedicated to national hero Dr José Rizal, who lost his life in the struggle for independence. See the place of his execution in Rizal Park, one of the largest recreational spaces in Asia.
Learn about the fascinating archaeology and anthropology of the region in the National Museum of the Filipino People, or visit Casa Manila Museum for a close-up view of the domestic life of an affluent Filipino family during the colonial era. Believers and non-believers alike can’t fail to be moved by the sight of faithful pilgrims flocking to Quiapo Church to pray to the Black Nazarene, one of the most important icons in the country. Take time to visit Manila Cathedral, still proudly serving the Catholic community despite being destroyed many times.
Getting around on foot is hard in this huge metropolis, but taxis are cheap and plentiful and the light rail links most of the main sites. For the authentic Manila experience, hop on a colourful jeepney and hold on tight!
Manila
Where to stay in Manila
Bonifacio Global City
If you're spending some time in Bonifacio Global City, BGC Arts Center and The Mind Museum are top sights worth seeing.
Malate
Travelers choose Malate for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Quirino Avenue LRT Station or Vito Cruz LRT Station and check out top sights like Manila Bay.
Makati Central Business District
The fantastic nightlife and popular shops are just a few highlights of Makati Central Business District. Make a stop by Ayala Triangle Gardens or Greenbelt Shopping Mall while you're exploring the area.
Ortigas Center
Ortigas Center is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Robinsons Galleria Mall and Ayala Malls The 30th, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Pasig.
Alabang
Travelers come to Alabang for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Festival Supermall and Alabang Town Center while you're in town.
Ermita
Ermita is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Manila Bay and National Museum of the Philippines. See more of Manila by jumping on the metro at United Nations LRT Station or Central LRT Station.
Reviewed on Apr 18, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 17, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 17, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 15, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 18, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 15, 2024
Popular places to visit
SM Mall of Asia
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit SM Mall of Asia, a popular shopping spot in Pasay. Check out the churches and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Venice Grand Canal Mall
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit Venice Grand Canal Mall, a favorite shopping spot in Taguig. Check out the churches and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.
SM North EDSA
During your visit to Quezon City, you can search for that perfect souvenir at SM North EDSA. Discover the great live music and churches in this culturally rich area.
Manila Ocean Park
Make time in your itinerary to visit the sea life who live at Manila Ocean Park during your visit to Manila. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Fort Bonifacio
Fort Bonifacio is just one of the places to see in Taguig, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Make time to visit the area's shops, or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
City of Dreams Manila
Why not roll the dice with a visit to City of Dreams Manila during your visit to Parañaque? Check out the churches and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Things to do
Nagpatong Rock Day hike + Tungtong Falls(with transfers**) 2023
Santa Inez Waterfalls Mountain Bike Tour from Manila
12-Day Philippines Honeymoon Private Tour
Reviews of Manila
4/5 - Good
Our purposes in going to Manila were all achieved; US visa granted, attended an international conference, visited an imprisoned senator, went to Supreme Court, & toured Fort Santiago.
4/5 - Good
It's walking distance to Rizal Park which is a must to visit esp. during night time: fountain show, cool breeze to walk around the area, snacks are available. You may also dine in Harbor View for fresh seafood options. Go to Intramuros.
4/5 - Good
Manila is quite crowded and heavy traffic. However if you plan to visit manila you must choose a better hotel to stay that’s near to the place you want to visit for a hassle free and time saving trip. Manila has so much to offer and to showcase views
4/5 - Good
hope that the reservation open's early on weekend as we check in we want to get tickets but it's close at 9am
5/5 - Excellent
All
5/5 - Excellent
Very friendly people.
Other places like Manila
- SM Mall of Asia
- Venice Grand Canal Mall
- SM North EDSA
- U.S. Embassy
- Newport World Resorts
- Manila Ocean Park
- Fort Bonifacio
- City of Dreams Manila
- Greenbelt Shopping Mall
- Alabang Town Center
- Rizal Park
- SM Megamall
- St. Luke's Medical Center
- Smart Araneta Coliseum
- SM City BF Parañaque
- Bonifacio High Street
- SM Aura Premier
- St Luke's Medical Center Global City
- Manila Cathedral
- Robinson's Place
- SMX Convention Center
- Greenhills Shopping Center
- BGC Arts Center
- SM City Fairview
- Newport Mall
- Glorietta Mall
- Baywalk
- Star City
- Philippine General Hospital
- Philippine International Convention Center
- Ayala Center
- Tomas Morato Ave