Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is one of the world's most densely populated cities, with over 1.9 million people living within just 43 square kilometres. The broader metropolitan area, Metro Manila, is home to nearly 15 million residents, making it a bustling urban hub central to the country's economic, political, and cultural life. Despite its compact size, Manila's dynamic energy pulses through its heritage streets, modern skyscrapers, and vibrant markets. It is a gateway to the nation's rich history, diverse cuisine, and dynamic arts scene. This thriving city is where traditional Filipino culture meets contemporary urban development, offering visitors a unique blend of experiences. From its historical sites to cosmopolitan neighbourhoods, Manila reflects both the challenges and vibrancy of a megacity shaping the 21st century in Southeast Asia.
Here's your perfect guide to Manila.
The walled city that the Spanish built in 1571 today offers a glimpse into Manila’s past and is the city’s most popular tourist attraction. At the mouth of the Pasig River is the Intramuros Visitor Centre and Fort Santiago, with its gardens and plazas. Within the fort is the Rizal Shrine, a building (now a museum) where national hero Dr. José Rizal was incarcerated as he awaited execution—an original copy of his last poem “Mi Ultimo Adios” (My Last Farewell) is preserved here along with his personal belongings.
The Manila Cathedral is known for its stone carvings and stained glass art. Outside the Cathedral is the Plaza de Roma, carved out of an earlier bullring. The San Agustin Church (don’t miss the artwork on the roof of this popular wedding venue) and the San Agustin Museum are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Casa Manila will remind you of 19th-century Spanish colonial mansions. You can take a picture with the guards and owners of the calesas (horse-drawn carriages), who go around dressed in period costumes.
The National Gallery of Art (part of the National Museum complex) showcases classical artworks by 19th-century Filipino artists, especially Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo. The Metropolitan Museum of Manila and the art galleries in the Cultural Centre of the Philippines are also known for their displays of modern art. Manila Contemporary often holds exhibitions featuring artists from home and abroad. The Intramuros area is an interesting place to study colonial architecture. The Manila Metropolitan Theatre is a fine example of the Philippines’ Art Deco style.
Manila Ocean Park is a marine theme park that features a variety of marine life attractions and an adjoining hotel. Visitors can become a mermaid and experience swimming like one at the Mermaid Swim Experience, walk through the Oceanarium to explore diverse aquatic creatures, learn about jellyfish at the Jelly Exhibit, and even take a ride on a glass-bottom boat. It offers an engaging and family-friendly way to discover the underwater world.
Manila offers a variety of museums that showcase the rich cultural heritage and history of the Philippines, ranging from traditional artifacts to unique and eclectic exhibits.
Start your journey at the National Museum of the Filipino People, located adjacent to the National Museum Building in Rizal Park. This museum is a treasure trove of Filipino heritage, featuring the skull cap of Tabon Man, who lived around 24,000 BC, one of the oldest human fossils found in the country. The museum houses extensive displays of indigenous Filipino tribes, pre-Hispanic musical instruments, and artifacts recovered from significant archeological sites. Highlights include artifacts salvaged from the Spanish galleon San Diego, which sank in 1600, such as its cannons, gold coins, and ceramics. The museum offers five permanent exhibitions covering history, anthropology, archaeology, ethnography, and natural history, including fascinating sections on rice cultivation, maritime trade, and traditional Filipino life with a reconstructed Ifugao house.
Nearby, the Escolta Museum on Escolta Street captures the architectural grandeur and lifestyle of Manila before the devastation of the Second World War, giving visitors a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past.
Other notable institutions include the National Museum of Fine Arts and the National Museum of Natural History, which feature works from celebrated Filipino artists like Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo, as well as displays about the country’s biodiversity.
Manila’s museum scene is vibrant and educational, perfect for travelers seeking to understand the depth and diversity of Filipino culture and history.
If you seek religious solace after visiting San Agustin Church, consider a visit to Quiapo Church on Quezon Boulevard. Rebuilt in 1933 after a fire destroyed the earlier building, it is famed for housing the revered statue of Christ called the Black Nazarene. This life-sized, dark-colored statue of Jesus Christ carrying the cross was brought from Mexico to Manila in 1606 and is renowned for its miraculous attributes. Every year, millions of devotees participate in the Traslación, a barefoot procession honoring the Black Nazarene’s transfer to Quiapo Church, which draws extensive crowds and is a remarkable display of Filipino Catholic faith.
Another peaceful site is the Greenbelt Chapel, located in the Greenbelt Park of Makati, a luxury shopping complex. Known for its distinctive domed architecture, the chapel stands out as a serene space for reflection amidst the bustling city.
Also known as Luneta Park, Rizal Park is one of Manila’s most iconic open spaces, enclosing wooded areas, open lawns, ornamental gardens, ponds, and a network of paved walkways. The park is filled with attractions scattered throughout its sprawling grounds. The visitor centre at the Kalaw Avenue entrance provides maps of the park and details on upcoming events.
The Central Lagoon area hosts monuments dedicated to Filipino heroes and features a popular dancing musical fountain show. The Rizal Monument, guarded by sentries in full regalia, marks the historic spot where national hero Jose Rizal was executed. Nearby, visitors can browse a display of Rizal memorabilia.
Every Sunday around 5:30 pm, the park hosts the Concert at the Park at the open-air auditorium, offering free entry to enjoy live music in a beautiful setting. Visitors can also join locals at the Chess Plaza for friendly games.
Manila Bay is world-famous for its breathtaking sunset views. The best place to catch the sun going down is along Roxas Boulevard, a waterfront promenade lined with palm trees and ornamental plants. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is often painted in vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
After sunset, the Baywalk promenade comes alive with an array of bars and restaurants, offering a lively evening atmosphere where you can dine, drink, and enjoy nightly entertainment. The area is also home to casinos for those wanting to try their luck. For a different perspective, sunset cruises are available along Manila Bay, offering scenic views of the city skyline and shimmering waters.
Nearby attractions include the SM Mall of Asia, Manila Yacht Club, and cultural spots such as the Cultural Centre of the Philippines. Roxas Boulevard and the Manila Baywalk remain essential stops for anyone seeking to experience Manila’s vibrant sunset culture.
Filipino cuisine is as intriguing and diverse as that of its neighboring countries. In Manila, you can savor authentic Filipino dishes as well as Chinese and Spanish foods, especially in the historic districts of Binondo and Intramuros respectively.
The Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, is a major dining destination offering a wide range of restaurants serving Filipino, Spanish, Chinese, and international cuisines. Whether you seek casual cafes, music lounges, or fine dining experiences, the mall caters to every palate.
For a different vibe, Manila’s Malate district overflows with numerous cafes, music lounges, and theaters, perfect for relaxing after a day's sightseeing.
To cool off, try the popular Filipino dessert halo-halo, made of shaved ice, milk, and a mix of sweetened fruits and beans—a refreshing treat appreciated by locals and visitors alike.