Spend A Whole Day In Intramuros: Where To Go And What To Do In Old Manila

If you want to know about Manila's rich history, there's no better place to be but in Intramuros. Also known as Old Manila, Intramuros is home to the city's iconic and historic landmarks that have been built during the Spanish occupation in the Philippines. Because of its old-world appeal, many locals and foreigners frequent Intramuros to revisit the past and see centuries-old establishments. Likewise, many touristy activities have emerged inside the "Walled City." It has become a travel destination for anyone who would like to learn, have fun, and even fall in love.

If you are looking for an Intramuros day trip itinerary, we got you covered from morning 'till night! You will witness many picturesque spots as we go along so don’t forget to bring your trusty cam and take awesome shots. Also, it's going to be a food adventure so prepare your tummies as well!

Start your day by offering a prayer at the San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the country. Founded in 1571 with its current structure completed in 1607, this church witnessed and survived wars and natural calamities like earthquakes and floods. A famous Intramuros tourist spot, it was hailed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Address: General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Contact information: (02) 8527 2746

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Did you know that you could rent a bamboo bike that you could use to sightsee around the Walled City? Yes! You could choose whether to join a small guided group tour or bike on your own to Intramuros tourist spots such as the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and the Aduana. Depending on the kind of tour that you booked, it usually starts at 9:30AM and would last for at least an hour and a half or more. Your meeting place is at the Bambike headquarters in Plaza San Luis Complex, which is just across the San Agustin Church.

Address: Bambike HQ, Plaza San Luis Complex. Real St .cor, M General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Contact information: 0977 781 5322

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Your Bambike activity will end where it started - at their headquarters in Plaza San Luis Complex. With only a few steps, you'll reach the new Cafe Intramuros. This al fresco cafe restaurant by Chef Christopher Tamayo offers hot and cold beverages, mains, snacks, and desserts. Indulge in classic Pinoy favorites like the Beef Caldereta and Pork Sisig for lunch, and cap off your meal with tasty slices of the Mango Coconut cake and the unique Olive Oil and Orange cake.

Address: Stall 1-C, Plaza San Luis Complex, General Luna cor. Real St., Intramuros, Manila, Manila, Philippines

Contact information: 0969 425 9294

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Before you head out of the Plaza San Luis Complex, make a side trip to the Casa Manila. An Intramuros tourist spot, this museum depicts life during the Spanish occupation in the country. It's a three-floor Filipino colonial mansion that was inspired from a house in the 1850s.

Address: Plaza San Luis Complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Contact information: (02) 8527 4084

This museum may be 40 years in the making but it was only officially opened back in May 2019 so it's a fairly new museum to explore. A must-try Intramuros tourist spot, this 2-building museum complex houses the San Ignacio Church and The Mission House of the Jesuits in the country. Different exhibits of artworks and artifacts are found here, featuring our country's religion and history.

Address: Corner Arzobispo, Anda St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002

Contact information: 5272961

From the Museo de Intramuros, head to the nearby Belfry Cafe. This new Intramuros cafe only opened last year but has already gained attention online for its unique set up. After all, it's a cafe at the historical bell of the famous Manila Cathedral. This Intramuros cafe has become a tourist spot in its own right. For an afternoon delight, grab a delicious hot cup of their signature Belfry Cafe Latte. Relish it with a slice of their Pistachio Sansrival cake. Delightful, indeed!

Address: Building, 1002 Sto. Tomas, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

Contact information: 0926 628 7133

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Have you ever rode on a kalesa or a horse carriage? If you haven't experienced it yet, then this is the perfect opportunity! Enjoy a late afternoon stroll on the streets and alleys of Intramuros onboard a kalesa, a traditional mode of transportation in the Philippines. There are many kalesa rides around the Walled City. A 30-minute ride may cost around Php350 to Php500, but it's so worth it!

Think you're fearless? Then a guided walking tour at night might interest you! The Walls of Intramuros have many interesting stories to tell. Stories of both struggles and successes. And then there are stories that haunt. It's not a secret that Intramuros, because of its age and history, have told countless ghost stories and witnessed supernatural sightings. And as you dig deeper into some of Intramuros' tourist spots, you never know what you might chance upon.

Address: Plaza Roma, Calle Postigo, Intramuros 1002 Manila, Philippines

Contact information: 0920 879 0695

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Finally, finish your Intramuros day trip with dinner at the La Cathedral Cafe. Located near the Manila Cathedral, dine under the stars at this much-raved Intramuros cafe. Some of their rice meals include Chicken Afritada, Bicol Express, Pork Adobo, Pork Ribs in Barbecue Sauce, and Special Laing, among others. They also have pasta dishes, sandwiches, and salads. Time to satisfy your food cravings after a long day of walking!

Address: Beaterio St 1002 Manila, Philippines

Contact information: 0915 512 3317

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So there you have it! It's time to plan your Intramuros trip soon!