Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, is a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse culture, and a mix of colonial and modern attractions. This guide will help you explore the top 20 tourist spots in Manila with all the essential details for your visit.

1. Intramuros (The Walled City)

Description: Intramuros, also known as the “Walled City,” is a historical district in Manila. It features colonial-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.
History: Built in 1571 by the Spanish colonizers, Intramuros served as the center of political, religious, and military power during the Spanish colonial period.
Google Maps Link: Intramuros
Official Website: Intramuros Official Website
Ticket Prices:
– Entry to Intramuros: Free.
– Fort Santiago: ₱75 (adults), ₱50 (students).
Opening Hours:
– Intramuros: Open 24/7.
– Fort Santiago: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Intramuros.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ilustrado Restaurant – Serves Spanish-Filipino cuisine, including paella and callos.
– Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant – Offers traditional Filipino dishes with cultural shows.
Additional Tips: Join a guided walking or bamboo bike tour to learn more about Intramuros’ history and architecture.

2. Rizal Park (Luneta Park)

Description: Rizal Park is a vast urban park dedicated to Dr. José Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero. It features gardens, fountains, and historical monuments.
History: Established in 1820, the park was the execution site of Dr. Rizal in 1896, sparking the Philippine Revolution.
Google Maps Link: Rizal Park
Official Website: Rizal Park Info
Ticket Prices: Free entry (some attractions within the park may charge fees).
Opening Hours:
– Park: Open 24/7.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Luneta.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ristorante Delle Mitre – Known for its Filipino-European fusion menu.
– Café Adriatico – Offers classic Filipino comfort food.
Additional Tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Don’t miss the evening light and sound show at the fountain.

3. Fort Santiago

Description: A historical fortress within Intramuros, Fort Santiago is a well-preserved relic of Manila’s colonial past, featuring dungeons, gardens, and a museum dedicated to Dr. José Rizal.
History: Built in 1571, Fort Santiago served as a defense fortress during the Spanish era. It later became a prison where Dr. Rizal was held before his execution.
Google Maps Link: Fort Santiago
Official Website: Intramuros Administration
Ticket Prices: ₱75 (adults), ₱50 (students).
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Intramuros.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ilustrado Restaurant – Serves classic Spanish-Filipino cuisine.
– 9Spoons – Located nearby with stunning views and Filipino dishes.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes as there’s a lot to explore. Don’t miss the Rizal Shrine museum inside the fort.

4. San Agustin Church and Museum

Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Agustin Church is the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Its museum houses a collection of religious artifacts and artworks.
History: Built in 1607, the church survived numerous earthquakes and wars, making it a symbol of resilience and faith.
Google Maps Link: San Agustin Church
Official Website: San Agustin Church Info
Ticket Prices: ₱200 (adults), ₱100 (students).
Opening Hours:
– Church: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Museum: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed on holidays).
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Intramuros.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant – Offers traditional Filipino meals with live cultural performances.
– Café Ilang-Ilang – Features a diverse buffet of Filipino and international cuisines.
Additional Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. Photography is allowed inside the museum.

5. Manila Cathedral

Description: A grand Roman Catholic basilica located in Intramuros, the Manila Cathedral is a symbol of faith and history with its Neo-Romanesque architecture.
History: Originally built in 1581, the cathedral has been rebuilt multiple times due to earthquakes and war. The current structure was completed in 1958.
Google Maps Link: Manila Cathedral
Official Website: Manila Cathedral Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Intramuros.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ilustrado Restaurant – Known for its elegant Spanish-Filipino dishes.
– Ristorante delle Mitre – Offers a variety of Filipino-European comfort food.
Additional Tips: Visit during mass services for a spiritual experience, but be respectful of the ceremonies.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Mornings are ideal for exploring Intramuros and its landmarks to avoid the midday heat.
Local Cuisine to Try: Sample Filipino favorites like adobo, sinigang, and leche flan at nearby restaurants.
Transportation: Jeepneys and taxis are the most convenient ways to get around Manila’s attractions.

6. Binondo (Manila Chinatown)

Description: Known as the oldest Chinatown in the world, Binondo is a bustling district filled with traditional shops, temples, and iconic food establishments serving authentic Chinese-Filipino cuisine.
History: Established in 1594 by Spanish Governor-General Luis Pérez Dasmariñas, Binondo was initially a settlement for Chinese immigrants converted to Catholicism.
Google Maps Link: Binondo
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free to explore.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7, but shops and restaurants typically operate between 8:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or LRT to Carriedo Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Eng Bee Tin – Famous for hopia (bean-filled pastries) and tikoy (glutinous rice cake).
– Sincerity Café & Restaurant – Known for its fried chicken and oyster omelet.
Additional Tips: Visit during Chinese New Year to witness colorful celebrations, dragon dances, and festive food.

7. National Museum Complex

Description: A cluster of museums showcasing the Philippines’ rich art, culture, and history. It includes the National Museum of Fine Arts, Natural History, and Anthropology.
History: The museum complex was established in 1901 to preserve the Philippines’ cultural and natural heritage.
Google Maps Link: National Museum Complex
Official Website: National Museum Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Rizal Park.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Hizon’s Cakes & Pastries – Serves traditional Filipino desserts and coffee.
– Ristorante Delle Mitre – Known for its Filipino-European fusion menu.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 2–3 hours for each museum. Photography is allowed but without flash.

8. Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)

Description: The CCP is the premier venue for performing arts in the Philippines, hosting ballet, theater, music, and art exhibitions. Its Brutalist architecture is iconic.
History: Established in 1969 under the Marcos administration, CCP has been a cultural hub for both local and international artists.
Google Maps Link: Cultural Center of the Philippines
Official Website: CCP Official
Ticket Prices: Prices vary depending on performances and events.
Opening Hours:
– Galleries: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Performances: Scheduled in the evenings.
Travel Options:
– By bus or jeepney to Roxas Boulevard.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Harbor View Restaurant – Offers seafood dishes with scenic views of Manila Bay.
– My Kitchen by Chef Chris – Known for its Italian-inspired menu.
Additional Tips: Check their website for performance schedules. Arrive early for evening shows to secure parking.

9. Manila Ocean Park

Description: A marine-themed park offering a range of attractions, including an oceanarium, penguin exhibits, and thrilling water activities. It’s a great spot for families.
History: Opened in 2008, Manila Ocean Park is the first marine park in the Philippines and remains one of the most popular attractions in the city.
Google Maps Link: Manila Ocean Park
Official Website: Manila Ocean Park Official
Ticket Prices:
– Oceanarium entry: ₱620 per person.
– Packages for multiple attractions start at ₱1,000.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By bus or jeepney to Luneta Park, then a short walk.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ristorante La Scala – Offers Italian dishes near the park.
– Gerry’s Grill – Serves Filipino favorites like sisig and grilled seafood.
Additional Tips: Book tickets online for discounts and avoid weekends to beat the crowds.

10. Malacañang Palace Museum (Presidential Museum and Library)

Description: A museum showcasing the history of Philippine presidents, located within the grounds of the official residence of the President of the Philippines.
History: Built in the mid-18th century as a summer house for Spanish aristocrats, it became the presidential residence in the 1930s.
Google Maps Link: Malacañang Palace Museum
Official Website: Malacañang Palace Info
Ticket Prices: Free, but prior booking is required.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (by appointment only).
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Mendiola.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Casa Roces – Offers heritage-inspired Filipino-Spanish dishes.
– La Cocina de Tita Moning – Known for its nostalgic dining experience and traditional Filipino food.
Additional Tips: Ensure to book your visit weeks in advance, as security measures are strict. Bring a valid ID.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Mornings are ideal for museums and cultural sites to maximize time and avoid the midday heat.
Local Cuisine to Try: Enjoy classic Filipino dishes like kare-kare (oxtail stew), pancit (noodles), and halo-halo (dessert).
Transportation: Public transport options are abundant in Manila, but taxis and rideshare services offer more convenience.

11. Quiapo Church (Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene)

Description: Quiapo Church is a renowned Catholic basilica famous for housing the Black Nazarene, a dark wooden statue of Jesus Christ believed to grant miracles.
History: Established in 1586, the church has been rebuilt several times due to fires and earthquakes. The Black Nazarene, brought to the Philippines from Mexico in 1606, is the highlight of the church.
Google Maps Link: Quiapo Church
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 5:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or LRT to Carriedo Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Quik Snack – Known for its Filipino-Chinese comfort food like lumpia and pancit.
– Ramon Lee’s Panciteria – Serves old-school Filipino dishes, including pancit canton.
Additional Tips: Visit on regular weekdays to avoid the massive crowds that gather during the Feast of the Black Nazarene in January.

12. Paco Park

Description: A serene, circular park that was once a cemetery during the Spanish colonial era. Paco Park is now a peaceful retreat and a popular venue for weddings and cultural events.
History: Built in the early 1800s, it originally served as a burial site for wealthy families. Dr. José Rizal’s remains were interred here before being transferred to Rizal Park.
Google Maps Link: Paco Park
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: ₱10 for entry.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney to United Nations Avenue.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Café Adriatico – Offers Filipino and Spanish-inspired dishes.
– Purple Yam – Known for its creative takes on traditional Filipino food.
Additional Tips: Bring a book or a picnic mat for a relaxing afternoon amidst lush greenery.

13. SM Mall of Asia (MOA)

Description: One of the largest malls in the Philippines, SM Mall of Asia offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including an IMAX theater and an ice skating rink.
History: Opened in 2006, MOA has become a symbol of modern Manila and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Google Maps Link: SM Mall of Asia
Official Website: SM MOA Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry (activity costs vary).
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By bus or jeepney to the Mall of Asia complex.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Vikings Buffet – Offers a wide range of Filipino and international dishes.
– Ramen Nagi – Famous for its customizable Japanese ramen bowls.
Additional Tips: Don’t miss the MOA Eye (ferris wheel) for stunning views of Manila Bay, especially at sunset.

14. Star City

Description: A family-friendly amusement park offering a variety of rides, games, and attractions, including an indoor snow world.
History: Opened in 1991, Star City has been a go-to destination for locals seeking entertainment and thrilling rides. It underwent major renovations after a fire in 2019.
Google Maps Link: Star City
Official Website: Star City Official
Ticket Prices:
– Entrance fee: ₱80.
– Ride-all-you-can tickets: ₱490.
Opening Hours:
– Thursday to Sunday: 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By bus or jeepney to CCP Complex.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Aristocrat Restaurant – Famous for its chicken barbecue and kare-kare.
– Dampa Seafood Market – Offers fresh seafood cooked to your preference.
Additional Tips: Arrive early to avoid long queues for popular rides.

15. Malate Church (Our Lady of Remedies Parish)

Description: A historical Baroque-style church dedicated to Nuestra Señora de los Remedios (Our Lady of Remedies), the patroness of childbirth and mothers.
History: Built in the late 16th century, Malate Church has endured centuries of natural disasters and wars, making it a testament to Manila’s resilient faith.
Google Maps Link: Malate Church
Official Website: Malate Church Info
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Roxas Boulevard.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Café Adriatico – A historic café serving Spanish-Filipino dishes.
– Dakota Cabin Café Bar and Bistro – Offers comfort food and drinks with a cozy ambiance.
Additional Tips: Visit on Sundays to witness traditional Filipino mass services.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Mornings are ideal for visiting churches and parks, while afternoons and evenings are better for malls and amusement parks.
Local Cuisine to Try: Enjoy Filipino classics like arroz caldo (rice porridge), halo-halo (mixed dessert), and pancit palabok (noodles with shrimp sauce).
Transportation: Public transport such as jeepneys, buses, and taxis are readily available, but rideshare apps like Grab are more convenient for tourists.

16. Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Description: BGC, also known as The Fort, is a modern commercial district filled with high-rise buildings, luxury boutiques, art installations, and trendy dining spots. It’s a hub for shopping, nightlife, and entertainment.
History: Originally a military camp, BGC was developed into a premier business and lifestyle district in the late 1990s.
Google Maps Link: Bonifacio Global City
Official Website: BGC Official
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; activity costs vary.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7, but shops and restaurants operate between 10:00 am – 10:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By BGC bus or taxi.
– By rideshare apps like Grab.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Manam Comfort Filipino – Known for its sisig and sinigang.
– Wildflour Café + Bakery – Offers artisan pastries and gourmet brunches.
Additional Tips: Visit BGC at night to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and illuminated streets.

17. Ayala Museum

Description: A premier cultural institution showcasing Filipino history, art, and heritage through dioramas, archaeological artifacts, and rotating contemporary art exhibits.
History: Established in 1967 by the Ayala Foundation, the museum aims to promote the Philippines’ rich cultural identity.
Google Maps Link: Ayala Museum
Official Website: Ayala Museum Official
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: ₱450.
– Students: ₱225.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By MRT to Ayala Station, then a short walk.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– M Café – Serves Filipino-Asian fusion dishes.
– Kabila Filipino Bistro – Offers elevated traditional Filipino cuisine.
Additional Tips: Check their website for temporary exhibitions and book tickets online to skip the queue.

18. Divisoria Market

Description: A bustling marketplace famous for its wholesale and bargain goods, from textiles and clothing to food and electronics. It’s a haven for shoppers and budget travelers.
History: Divisoria has been a trading hub since the Spanish colonial era, catering to both locals and merchants.
Google Maps Link: Divisoria Market
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free to explore.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By jeepney or bus to Recto Avenue.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Quick Snack – Serves delicious Filipino-Chinese dishes like lumpia and siomai.
– Eng Bee Tin – Famous for its hopia and tikoy.
Additional Tips: Bring cash and wear comfortable shoes for navigating the crowded stalls.

19. Greenbelt Mall

Description: A high-end shopping complex featuring luxury boutiques, global brands, and a lush garden at its center. It’s a blend of retail therapy and relaxation.
History: Opened in 1988, Greenbelt has evolved into one of Manila’s premier shopping destinations.
Google Maps Link: Greenbelt Mall
Official Website: Greenbelt Official
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; activity costs vary.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By MRT to Ayala Station, then a short walk.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– People’s Palace – Offers modern Thai cuisine.
– Milky Way Café – Known for its classic Filipino dishes and desserts.
Additional Tips: Visit Greenbelt Chapel for a moment of serenity amidst the bustling mall.

20. Nayong Pilipino

Description: Nayong Pilipino is a cultural park showcasing miniature replicas of the Philippines’ famous landmarks and cultural exhibits.
History: Established in 1970, the park was created to promote Filipino heritage and educate visitors about the country’s diverse traditions.
Google Maps Link: Nayong Pilipino
Official Website: Nayong Pilipino Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₱150.
– Children: ₱100.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By bus or jeepney to the area.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Jollibee – Enjoy the iconic Filipino fast food.
– Cabalen Buffet – A budget-friendly buffet of Filipino comfort food.
Additional Tips: Perfect for families with kids who want to learn about Philippine history and geography.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Morning is ideal for Nayong Pilipino and Divisoria Market, while the evening is perfect for exploring BGC or relaxing at Greenbelt Mall.
Local Cuisine to Try: Sample Filipino favorites like kare-kare, lumpia, and halo-halo at nearby restaurants.
Transportation: Taxis and rideshare apps like Grab offer convenience, but public transport options like jeepneys and MRT are budget-friendly.