Manila, the bustling metropolitan of the Philippines, is a city to visit first to learn more about the country's history. Traces of Spanish influences are noticeable when you explore the Walled City of Intramuros or visit the many museums. The city provides a combination of Spanish culture and contemporary activities, making it a perfect destination for travelers. Check out more things to do in Metro Manila below!
Located near Manila Bay, Rizal Park or also known as Luneta Park, is one of the city’s key attractions where tourists and locals frequent. Adjacent to the Walled City of Intramuros, this historical place plays an important role in shaping the Philippines – from the execution of national hero of the Philippines, Jose Rizal to other major political events throughout the years. Major city museums are also located within the complex of the park such as the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.
One of the best things to do in Manila is to visit Fort Santiago. Located within the Walled City, this area in Intramuros was built as a defense fortress for the Spanish government during its reign over the country. Marvel at beautiful Spanish architecture as you walk down the cobblestone pavement. Make sure to check the dungeon cell blocks where many Filipinos and Americans were imprisoned, as well the Rizal Shrine museum to learn about Philippine National hero Jose Rizal’s final hours before his execution.
When it comes to intricate historical churches, the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila doesn't disappoint. This grand Spanish colonial church is the oldest and longest standing Catholic church in the country and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has undergone a great deal of reconstruction as a result of many devastating destructions, such as the WWII bombing of Intramuros and a few significant earthquakes. You can purchase tickets to see the museum inside and find antique artifacts from the Spanish era.
The National Museum of the Philippines is a government organization that oversees the country’s national museums. These museums are the top tourist spots in Manila which include the National Museum of Natural History, Anthropology, Planetarium, as well as the National Museum of Fine Arts where it houses the collection of many artworks of Filipino artists, including Juan Luna’s Spoliarium. Located within the Rizal Park complex, get to visit these major museums and discover more about the history of the Philippines.
Take a unique marine experience when you visit Manila Ocean Park, the first marine-themed ocean park in the country. Located at the end of Luneta Park, by the Quirino Grandstand, you can have an amazing ocean adventure with your family and friends. Walk through the amazing 360-degree Oceanarium filled with a variety of marine creatures such as sharks, stingrays, and more. Get a chance to encounter a few friendly creatures such as sea lions, stingrays, or penguins.
Similar to the San Agustin Church, the Manila Cathedral is also an intricately beautiful Catholic church located inside the Walled City. The church, built in 1571, had also undergone several renovations due to damages from the Second World War and natural calamities. The cathedral still holds daily mass, weddings, and other religious celebrations. With its beautiful Romanesque-Byzantine architectural design, stained glass windows, and grand columns, it is no wonder why the church continues to be one of the most admired in the country.
If you want to have a feel of what it was like to live a wealthy life during the Spanish colonial period, Casa Manila is the place to experience it. This traditional Filipino mansion offers a window into the wealthy and lavish lifestyle of significant Filipino families. Although Casa Manila is a replica, a step inside will instantly take you back into the Spanish history, with the house’s shiny wooden floors, high intricate ceiling, beautiful wooden furniture adorned with capiz and China.
Located along the seaside of Roxas Boulevard is the Manila Baywalk. This two-kilometer baywalk stretches all the way from the US Embassy to the Cultural Center of the Philippines. It’s a favorite spot for locals to go walking or jogging, exercising, or to view the beautiful Manila Bay sunset. It used to host many street performances and open-air restaurants but the baywalk has since been undergoing rehabilitation after storm surges have destroyed the seawall overtime.
Spend the day with some gentle animals at the Manila Zoo. Formerly called Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden, this 5.5-hectare is home to a number of various animal breeds from reptiles, mammals, birds, and amphibians. See some tigers, hippos, or get to interact with Mali, the gentle elephant, and the many exotic birds the zoo has in store. The zoo is undergoing some major renovations so get ready to be welcomed by a new and improved experience when it opens next year!
Behind the layers of stone walls, in the middle of a busy street in Manila, lies the peaceful Paco Park and Cemetery. Built in 1807, the park was designed as a cemetery for the colonial elites. Some of the more famous residents were Jose Rizal (although his body was moved near Rizal Park) and three Filipino priests known collectively as GomBurZa, who were executed for allegedly inciting mutiny against the Spanish government. Today, the cemetery is an attraction for visitors and a popular wedding venue inside the small church.
Manila is best known for its remnants of Spanish colonial history, a showcase of Filipino art and culture, as well as a variety of classic yet delicious Filipino food. It is a city that provides a combination of Spanish culture and contemporary activities, making it a perfect destination for travelers.
The country only has both dry and wet seasons, so the best time to visit is during the dry months between December and May. Rainy season starts from June to October. The busiest time of the year is during the Christmas season and on Christian holidays in March/April.
If you want to be in the thick of things, look for accommodations in the Malate district, which is close to the Manila Baywalk and a plethora of bars and restaurants. If you want to stay in a Spanish colonial-style area, go to Intramuros or Ermita. It is the neighborhood where most of the top attractions are located.