The Philippines is known for its beautiful islands and Manila serves as a gateway to such paradise. But Manila itself is a complicated melting pot of culture, tradition, and religion. It shares a profound history, one that is both colourful and poignant. Manila’s irresistible yet flawed charm may not be for everybody – crazy traffic jam, humid weather, crowded streets, and more. But if you’re an adventurous old soul, Manila can be a promising destination to you – rich heritage, warm people, and distinctive food.
Manila is the cradle, the graveyard, the memory. The Mecca, the Cathedral, the bordello. The shopping mall, the urinal, the discotheque. I’m hardly speaking in metaphor. It’s the most impermeable of cities. How does one convey all that?”― Miguel Syjuco, Ilustrado
Manila came from the two words “may” (there is) and “nilà” (Sanskrit word for indigo, a plant used to extract natural indigo dye) meaning “where indigo is found”. Today, people often confuse Metro Manila and Manila. The City of Manila is actually the capital of the Philippines. On the other hand, Metro Manila, also known as the National Capital Region, is short for Metropolitan Manila that houses 16 cities (including the City of Manila) and one municipality. Most of the time, the term Manila is both used to refer to the metropolitan area and the capital city. This guide covers information and things you can do both in the City of Manila and the rest of the metropolitan area.
For mode of transportation around Manila, you have the following options: buses, cabs, trains (MRT and LRT), and jeepneys. Tricycles and motorcycles are also available. Depending on where you are going, you might take a combination of these rides.
Manila currently does not have an efficient transportation system (no schedule for buses and trains) and traffic is common. It is best to always leave early or ahead of your schedule.
Manila Weather – Best Time to Visit
Manila has to major seasons – dry and wet season. The wet season is from June to November while the dry season is from December to May. It can get extremely hot from March to May. By June, the weather starts to get cooler but rain also starts pouring in (although few rain showers can already be experienced around May).
Generally, you would want to avoid the wet season because some areas can be flooded and transportation can be harder. But it’s not all heavy rain during these times so you just have to plan wisely. Best time to visit is from December to February as these are the colder, dry months.
Language and Useful Filipino Phrases
Filipino is the official language. English is also widely spoken as it is included in the country’s system of education. This makes getting around Manila easier, the locals are not only friendly but is able to communicate well.
Even so, you can use the following Filipino phrases:
- Good Morning – Magandang Umaga
- Good Afternoon – Magandang Hapon (use Magandang Tanghali if it’s around noon)
- Good Evening – Magandang Gabi
- How are you? – Kumusta?
- Thank you/thank you very much – Salamat / Maraming Salamat
- You’re Welcome – Walang Anuman
- How much? – Magkano?
- Stop – Para (This is commonly used when you ride a jeepney and you want to alight/go down already because you have reached your destination.)
- Where is [INSERT LOCATION]? – Saan ang [INSERT LOCATION]?
- I’m sorry – Pasensya na po / Paumanhin
What to Do in Manila
1. Visit historical places.
Intramuros
If history is your thing, then the first thing you have to visit in Manila is Intramuros also known as the Walled City. It was built by the Spaniards in 1571 and used it as their seat of government during their colonization in the country. The walls served as protection from calamities and foreign invasion. Intramuros houses significant and beautiful structures such as Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, Baluarte De San Diego, Casa Manila, and San Agustin Church.
Community quarantine guideline: Last September 16, 2021, Fort Santiago, Plaza San Luis, and Baluarte De San Diego have re-opened to the public. Please check @OfficialIntramurosAdministration on Facebook for the detailed guidelines and requirements.
Binondo Chinatown
Also established by the Spaniards in 1594, Binondo Chinatown is regarded as the oldest Chinatown in the world. It is located near Intramuros so you can do a day tour covering both places. With many affordable, hole-in-the-wall restaurants here, going on a Binondo food trip is recommended. Some worth trying are Ying Ying Tea House, Shanghai Fried Siopao, Dong Bei Dumplings, and The Original Salido Restaurant. There are also important structures here like Binondo Church and Seng Guan temple. Head over to Ongpin St. if you’re interested in jewelry shops. There are a lot of charm bracelets and accessories being sold around as well, even along the streets. There is also nothing like the celebration of Chinese New Year in Binondo Chinatown.
Escolta St.
Still part of Binondo, you can stroll along Escolta, also regarded as one of the oldest streets in Manila. Derived from the Spanish word escoltar that means “to escort”, Escolta is home to a number of old buildings with iconic architectural styles like art deco and neo-classical designs. If you can only see one, go to Calvo building and be surprised by the museum inside showcasing a fantastic memorabilia of old Manila. It also has one of the oldest elevators in the country.
Quiapo
Quiapo is referred to as the old downtown of Manila. You can find here Quiapo Church that shelters the Black Nazarene whose feast is celebrated by millions of Filipinos yearly. Even famous personalities have their share of success, if not miracle, stories being faithful devotees of the Black Nazarene. On the other hand, there is also a thriving Muslim community here that is why you can also see the Golden Mosque. Walk around Plaza Miranda where you can buy affordable souvenirs. If you want to get cameras and accessories for a cheaper price, go to the famous Hidalgo St.
2. Explore museums.
National Museum of the Philippines
The National Museum of the Philippines is actually comprised of a number of museums including the National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Anthropology, National Museum of Natural History, and National Planetarium. The National Museum of Fine Arts alone can take half of your day because of the immense collection it has. You can find here the famous Spoliarium made by Juan Luna in 1884 that won First Gold Medal in the Madrid Art Exposition.
Community quarantine guideline: As of July 29, 2021, the National Museum of the Philippines Complex in Manila, including the National Planetarium, will remain closed to the public until further notice. Please check @nationalmuseumofthephilippines on Facebook for updates.
Art in Island
With around 200 masterpieces, Art in Island is claimed to be the largest 3D museum in Asia. Founded by Yun Jae Kyoung, the paintings are also made by Korean artists. It’s like the Trick Eye Museum in Seoul but definitely so much bigger! You will have fun interacting and being part of the paintings.
Community quarantine guideline: As of July 24, 2021, Art In Island Museum is still temporarily closed to the public until further notice. Please check @artinisland on Facebook for updates.
Book Museum Cum Ethnology Center
Book lovers rejoice! The Book Museum Cum Ethnology Center tucked away in the quiet neighborhood in Marikina has a wide assortment of books from over 200 countries as its founder, Mr. Dominador Buhain, is a travel aficionado. You can see here some rare books like the Doctrina Christiana that is said to be one of the first books printed in the Philippines which tackles Roman Catholic Catechism. You might also be interested in the museum’s well-preserved artifacts from the Cordillera Region.
Community quarantine guideline: As of August 2, 2021, Book Museum Cum Ethnology Center is closed to the public until further notice. Please check @BookMuseum on Facebook for updates.
Ayala Museum
One of the elegant museums in town, the Ayala Museum showcases among its collection handcrafted dioramas depicting Philippine culture and history, golds and Asian ceramics, and art works. There is always something to look forward at the museum because they hold different exhibitions every now and then. They also offer classes like writing, photography, and drawing workshops.
Note: Ayala Museum has been closed for renovation. Please check @ayalamuseum on Facebook for updates.
Escolta Museum
For a fantastic memorabilia of old Manila, Escolta Museum is one of the best places to explore. From old newspapers to vintage bottles, the museum is also located in one of the oldest buildings along one of the oldest streets in Manila. Prepare to be transported in a different era when you do visit.
The Mind Museum
As they claim it, The Mind Museum is a place where Science comes alive. Aside from displaying galleries that features fascinating information about the earth, the universe, and technology among others, there are a lot of interactive activities that even adults can enjoy. They also have the first permanent T. rex exhibit in the country.
Community quarantine guideline: The museum is closed until further notice.
3. Watch Manila Bay sunset.
They say the best things in life are free and Manila Bay sunset is one of them. Stroll across the famous Manila Baywalk along Roxas Boulevard and catch a glimpse of that magical sunset.
4. Stroll around parks and open spaces.
Rizal Park (also called Luneta Park)
Originally known as Bagumbayan during the Spanish occupation, Rizal Park is one of the largest urban parks in Asia named after the national hero Jose Rizal. Though it historically served as a public execution place (Rizal and the three Filipino priests known as Gomburza were executed here), the park today is a cool hangout spot that is a favorite even among locals.Make sure to see the Rizal Monument when you walk around the park (the remains of Rizal was laid underneath the monument).
Paco Park
Paco Park is a popular venue for events with its beautiful, circular garden but it used to be a cemetery during the Spanish rule. It was constructed because of the outbreak of a cholera epidemic in Manila and it served as a designated resting place for the rich Spaniards. The Gomburza priests were buried together here in an unmarked grave after their execution. The remains of Rizal was also interred in the place before it was transferred to Luneta Park. Paco Park later on was declared as a National Park.
Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
Referred to as the “Nature Park in City’s Heart”, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center is a protected area promoting ecotourism with biodiversity conversation. Relax amidst a busy city by discovering the park’s flora and fauna.
Community quarantine guideline: As of September 23, 2021, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center is open to the public. Please check @bmbnapwc on Facebook for detailed guidelines.
La Mesa Ecopark
A breath of fresh air in the city, La Mesa Ecopark is the only forest of its size in Metro Manila. It was rehabilitated and now offers a venue for different outdoor activities.
UP Diliman Campus
A famous state university in the country, the UP Diliman Campus serves as a good leisure place for many people. You can stroll, bike, or jog around.
Ayala Triangles Gardens
Located in Makati Central Business District, Ayala Triangles Gardens is a popular outdoor venue for the busy working peeps. It’s a favorite jogging place after a day’s work. Many events are even held here (The annual Festival of Lights during the Christmas season showcases a spectacular display of lights and sounds). A number of good restaurants are also established around the garden.
5. Do fun activities.
Archery
Ever wanted to try archery? Gandiva Archery can be a good place to experience the sport. They have lessons you can try.You can also rent or purchase equipment from them and they recently launched virtual and homebased archery program.
Indoor Target Shooting
The first toxic-free indoor shooting range in the country, Stronghand Shooting Range offers toxic-free ammunition and their facility is equipped with HEPA filter and turbine air exchanger eliminating the smoky smell after shooting. If you haven’t tried target shooting before, don’t worry because they have instructors to guide you.
Community quarantine guideline: As of September 1, 2021, Stronghand Shooting Range is open to the public by appointment basis only (limited slots per hour). Please check @stronghand on Facebook for updates.
Escape Rooms
Have you been trapped in a room and the only way out is to find clues and solve some puzzles? Escape rooms are not only challenging but extremely fun to experience with your friends or colleagues. Mystery Manila and Breakout Philippines offer different escape rooms and they now even have virtual ones.
Painting
No paining experience? No problem! Sip & Gogh offers painting lessons while you sip your favorite beverage. Time to make that artistic dream come true. You can also opt to join their online classes and they have a number of branches that you can choose from.
6. Relax with spa and massage.
ACE Water Spa
Have you heard of hydrotherapy massage? Ace Water Spa offers hydrotheraphy spa in Manila with their ultrasonic jet system that massages the body in heated water. Just like the traditional massage, you have options for pressure – soft, moderate, or hard. They even have herbal pools that will give you a therapeutic dip.
Community quarantine guideline: ACE Water Spa is temporarily closed until further notice. Please check their Facebook page for updates.
The Mandara Spa
The Mandara Spa derived its name from the sacred mountain in Hindu mythology, “Mandara” that means mind (“mana”) and single line (“dara”). With cozy ambience, they have a number of massage to choose from (you may want to try their hot stone massage).And yes, they also have amazing body scrubs!
Baan Khun Thai, House of Traditional Thai Massage
With several branches around the metro, it’s easy to find Baan Khun Thai near you. Definitely one of the best and affordable massage places in town!
7. Go shopping.
For affordable shopping, head over to Divisoria Mall, 168 Shopping Mall, Tutuban Commercial Center, or Lucky Chinatown Mall. Some small businesses even purchase their products here because you can get discounts and at times, haggle with vendors.
For bazaar style shopping, Greenhills Shopping Center is a good place. For more upscale shopping experience, you can check SM Supermalls – one of the largest mall chains in the country. They have branches at prime locations around the metro (SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM Aura Premier). Another major mall chain is Ayala Malls. Have that posh shopping experience among their numerous branches like TriNoma, Greenbelt, and Glorietta.
