Baluarte de San Diego

This ancient fort has survived natural and man-made adversity to become one of Manila’s best-loved beauty spots.

Baluarte de San Diego dates from the end of the 16th century, when it was constructed as part of the fortifications of the walled city of Intramuros by a Jesuit priest, Antonio Sedeno. Originally named Nuestra Senora de Guia (Our Lady of Guidance), the bastion was primarily designed to repel invasion. Its sturdy structure is testament to its purpose and has helped it to survive wars, earthquakes and the ravages of time. During the 1980s it was substantially restored and today is a popular tourist attraction.

Before you begin your exploration, stop to read the information panel at the bottom of the stone staircase leading up to the fort. This brief introduction to the history of the site will greatly enhance your visit. Walkways lead you around the bastion itself, offering close-up views of the ancient moss-covered stone structure. Although it is not possible to walk among the ruins, you can get a good impression of its size and strategic importance.

Look out for the three large rings of stone connected by crossways, which are thought to have been the base of a tower, now destroyed. There are also several original cannons bearing fascinating inscriptions with details of when and where they were made. The lookout post is a reminder of the vital part the fort played in warning the city of approaching enemies in the past. Nowadays it provides a peaceful photo-opportunity, with impressive views across the Manila skyline.

The bastion is surrounded by beautiful gardens, criss-crossed with pathways and adorned with lush plants, fountains and an attractive pergola. Not surprisingly, this is a popular place for weddings, family parties and other special occasions, so it’s worth checking before you visit to make sure the gardens are not closed for a private function. As you stroll around, pay heed to the notice warning of flying golf balls, as stray balls from the nearby golf course have been known to catch people unawares!

Baluarte de San Diego is south of Intramuros, opposite Rizal Park. Take the light rail to Central station, from where it is only a short walk. The fort and gardens are open daily for a modest admission charge.

Guide to Exploring Baluarte de San Diego

Rizal Park

Discover the uplifting story of the Philippines’ national hero in this lovely park renamed in his honour.

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Fort Santiago

This former military base hides some dark secrets, but is now enjoying happier times as a memorial to a national hero.

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Baluarte de San Andres

Step back in time on a walking tour of this historic fortification with impressive views over Manila.

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Paco Park

Take a walk, enjoy a free concert or pack up a picnic for a relaxing day out in this popular park.

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National Museum of the Filipino People

A visit to Manila will be greatly enriched by a trip to this informative museum of history and heritage.

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Casa Manila Museum

This lavishly appointed mansion offers an intriguing glimpse of 19th-century domestic life in Manila.

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Baywalk

Work out, chill out and dine out at Manila’s popular panoramic playground.

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Quiapo Church

Pilgrims come here from far and wide to worship the Black Nazarene, reputed to have miraculous powers.

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Manila Cathedral

This important centre of worship has remained at the spiritual heart of Manila for over five centuries.

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Manila Bay Vacation Packages

Drift around the tranquil waters of a sheltered bay and watch a colorful sunset from the shores of Manila city.

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The Manila Hotel Rs7,439

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26 Jan-27 Jan

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The Manila Hotel

One Rizal Park, Manila

5.0 out of 5.0 Stars

This family-friendly Manila hotel is located in the historical district, within a 10-minute walk of Rizal Park, Manila Ocean Park and Manila Bay. U.S. Embassy and Manila Doctors Hospital are also within 1 mile (2 km). United Nations LRT Station is 17 minutes by foot and Central LRT Station is 20 minutes.

Hotel H2O Rs5,279

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26 Jan-27 Jan

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Hotel H2O

Luneta, (Behind the Quirino Grandstand), Manila

4.0 out of 5.0 Stars

This family-friendly Manila hotel is located on the waterfront, within a 5-minute walk of Manila Ocean Park and Manila Bay. Rizal Park and U.S. Embassy are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 19 minutes by foot and Central LRT Station is 25 minutes.

Hotel Jen Manila by Shangri-La Rs4,026

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16 Feb-17 Feb

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Hotel Jen Manila by Shangri-La

3001 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay, Manila

4.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Brgy. 719, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila Yacht Club and Star City. Harrison Plaza and Philippine International Convention Center are also within 15 minutes. Vito Cruz LRT Station is 12 minutes by foot and Gil Puyat LRT Station is 19 minutes.

Bayview Park Hotel Manila Rs4,132

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26 Jan-27 Jan

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Bayview Park Hotel Manila

1118 Roxas Boulevard, corner United Nations Avenue, Manila, Manila

3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Ermita, this hotel is steps away from U.S. Embassy and Rizal Park. Manila Bay and Manila Ocean Park are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 10 minutes by foot and Pedro Gil LRT Station is 18 minutes.

The Bayleaf Intramuros Rs4,347

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29 Jan-30 Jan

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The Bayleaf Intramuros

Muralla Corner Victoria Streets, Intramuros, Manila, Manila

3.5 out of 5.0 Stars

Situated in the historical district, this boutique hotel is within a 10-minute walk of San Agustin Church, Fort Santiago, and Manila Cathedral. Rizal Park and Manila Ocean Park are also within 1 mile (2 km). United Nations LRT Station is 17 minutes by foot and Central LRT Station is 23 minutes.

Red Planet Manila Bay Rs2,044

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24 Feb-25 Feb

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Red Planet Manila Bay

Arquiza St. cor Alhambra St., Ermita, Manila

3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Ermita, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Rizal Park, U.S. Embassy and Manila Bay. Robinson's Place and Manila Doctors Hospital are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 12 minutes by foot and Pedro Gil LRT Station is 16 minutes.

City Garden Suites Manila Rs3,295

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26 Jan-27 Jan

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City Garden Suites Manila

1158 A. Mabini St. Ermita, Manila, Manila

3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Ermita, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Rizal Park, U.S. Embassy and Manila Bay. Manila Doctors Hospital and Robinson's Place are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 8 minutes by foot and Pedro Gil LRT Station is 15 minutes.

White Knight Hotel Intramuros Rs3,100

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26 Jan-27 Jan

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White Knight Hotel Intramuros

Plaza San Luis Complex General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, Manila

3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Situated in the historical district, this hotel is steps away from San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago. Rizal Park and Manila Cathedral are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 17 minutes by foot and Carriedo LRT Station is 20 minutes.

Baluarte de San Diego

Baluarte de San Diego