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 Travel Guide
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
Travellers 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
Travellers to Ortigas Center praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Estancia at Capitol Commons and Robinsons Galleria Mall.
Ermita
Manila Ocean Park and Manila Bay are top sights in Ermita, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at United Nations LRT Station or Central LRT Station to see more sights in the area.
Alabang
Alabang is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Festival Supermall and Alabang Town Center while you're in town.
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 8 May 2024
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 6 May 2024
Popular places to visit
SM Mall of Asia
You can search for that perfect souvenir when you visit SM Mall of Asia, a popular shopping spot in Pasay. Visit the churches and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
SM North EDSA
You can search for that perfect souvenir with a trip to SM North EDSA, a favourite shopping spot in Quezon City. Discover the great live music and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.
Venice Grand Canal Mall
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit Venice Grand Canal Mall, a favourite shopping spot in Taguig. Visit the stunning cathedral and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Manila Ocean Park
Make time to visit the sea creatures you'll find at Manila Ocean Park, and learn why this is a favourite attraction in 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 travels in Parañaque? Visit the casinos and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Reviews of Manila
2/5 - Disappointing
Overrated. Get your money's worth elsewhere. Staff need retraining with customer service for sure esp at secuity.
4/5 - Good
Manila is a really busy city so takes a few days to adjust. Once you start to get used to it you start to uncover the quirky and interesting places to visit.
4/5 - Good
Love the Old Manila. Barbara restaurant is a must to visit
3/5 - Okay
All taxi drivers believe that you must feed their families for the whole year. They decide how much tip must be given to them! Always have change and "forget" to tip them in order to teach them that the tip is not a requirement!!!
4/5 - Good
Hectic.
2/5 - Disappointing
very dirty city, over crowded, very very conguested, beggers and homless sleeping on the streets. terrible city