tourist spots near metro manila

15 CHEAP BUT AWESOME Destinations Near MANILA

The rise of low-cost carriers had made this world a lot smaller and interesting destinations closer. The distant islands north and south have become easily accessible to Manila-dwellers, who are eager to escape the heat of the city to a paradise that can give them a relaxing and exciting affair with nature. (Or, in some cases, just an affair.) Flying is relatively cheap now. But with all the surcharges, taxes, terminal fees, and the cost of land or boat transfers, the trip that is opened at an airport can still be quite heavy on the pocket.

Foreign travelers aiming for an island getaway in the Philippines most likely find themselves spending a day or two in Manila, whether they like it or not. Many of them are faced with the question: what is there to do in Manila ? Well, there’s always Binondo, Intramuros, churches, and museums, of course. But if you’re not interested in doing a mall tour, sampling street food, or getting yourself squished inside the sauna that is the MRT, then heading for the countryside is a good alternative. We love Manila, yes, but when it comes to adventures for the nature-lovers and beach bums — let’s face it — she will break your heart.

If you’re looking for great vacation spots that are just within proximity of the capital, here are some of my recommendations.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

MT. PINATUBO

Be blown away! Figuratively, of course! Take a bus to Tarlac, ride a 4×4 jeep, and trek to the crater of Mt. Pinatubo! It’s a long way but the view is definitely worth the time and effort. See the rim of the crater slope up from a lakeful of rainwater, accumulated over the years! You can even boat across the crater lake and camp overnight.

On your way back, pass by Angeles City to sample Pampanga’s rich and irresistible cuisine!

Day trip suggested budget : P1500-P2000/person (Group of 5)

More info : Mt. Pinatubo Travel Guide

✅ WHERE TO STAY: CLARK HOTELS

ANAWANGIN AND NAGSASA COVES, ZAMBALES

One of the provinces at the base of Mt. Pinatubo, Zambales was terribly buried when the sleeping volcano awakened two decades ago. But the disaster dumped a good amount of ash onto its the rocky shores, breathing a new life to its otherwise ordinary beaches. Today, Anawangin and Nagsasa Coves have risen as popular tourist destinations for its ashen sand and agoho trees (resembling pine trees) that foster a unique Baguio-meets-Boracay vibe. Capones and Camara Islands are also waiting!

How to get there: Take a Victory Liner bus to Iba or Sta. Cruz, Zambales and tell the conductor to drop you off at San Antonio public market. Take a tricycle to Pundaquit. From here, you may rent a boat to get to Anawangin or Nagsasa.

Day trip suggested budget : P1200-P1500/person (Group of 4)

More info : Anawangin and Nagsasa Travel Guide .

✅ WHERE TO STAY: ZAMBALES HOTELS

TAAL VOLCANO

UPDATE: The Taal Volcano has been closed to the public.

If you love admiring it from afar, you’re gonna love it even more when you’re actually on the volcano. It only takes two to three hours to get to the jump off point in Talisay, Batangas. From there, you can rent a small boat to take you to the volcano island. Prep for a rigorous trek because its slopes, while not as steep, can still drain all your energy especially when the sun is harsh. (And unless you’re trekking at night, I’m telling you: clouds or no clouds, the sun is harsh!) If long treks aren’t on your favorites list, there’s always the horse option, for a fee of course.

How to get there:  From Manila, take the bus to Batangas and get off at Tanauan City Proper. If you’re renting a boat from Taal Lake Yacht Club, ride a jeepney to Sampaloc and get off in front of TLYC. It’s on your right side. You can also take a jeepney at Tanauan City to Talisay Town Proper.

Day trip suggested budget : P1000-P1500/person (Group of 5)

More info : Taal Volcano Trek

✅ WHERE TO STAY: TAGAYTAY HOTELS

TAGAYTAY CITY

Tagaytay offers the best views of the Taal Volcano, with a lovely, cool atmosphere to boot. Visit the newly opened Sky Ranch and get into one of the coaches of their giant Ferris wheel, overlooking the lake. Not into rotating wheels? Spend a morning in one of the city’s parks and gardens. The People’s Park in the Sky has not been maintained well but you might still want to stay a 360-degree view of the city. Or just enter a coffee shop, order a latte, and just ponder on whatever!

How to get there : From Manila, take a bus bound for Tagaytay or Nasugbu or you can also take a shuttle/van to Lemery at Starmall Alabang or Shaw. (Don’t take the bus to Lemery; it doesn’t pass through Tagaytay.) Either way, get off at Tagaytay Rotonda and take a trike or jeepney to your target destination from here.

Day trip suggested budget : P850-P1500/person

ANILAO, BATANGAS

Anilao in Mabini, Batangas is just three hours away, making it a favorite among Manila-based divers and future divers. One-day beginner courses are available to those who wish to learn how to, well, dive. Batangas waters host a wide array of marine wildlife that will blow you away.

If diving isn’t your thing, you may also opt to climb Mt. Gulugod Baboy, an easy climb for professionals (probably the climb of my life if that were me) or take a boat to Sombrero Island and make love with the sun while flaunting your brand new bikini!

How to get there : Board a bus going to Batangas City and alight at Bolbok, just before Batangas pier under the flyover. Then take a jeepney to Anilao (Mabini).

More info : Anilao Travel Guide

✅ WHERE TO STAY: ANILAO RESORTS

LIPA & TAAL, BATANGAS

From the petal shower site at Carmel Church to the sacred well of Sta. Lucia, from the magnificent Lipa Cathedral to the massive Taal Basilica, the biggest in Asia — the road from the city of Lipa to the heritage town of Taal is milestoned by grand churches and miraculous sites. Whether you’re a believer or not, make a stop at these places and see what the fuss is about. If you have more time, roll out a bit more of your map and continue your journey to Calaca and Balayan, which also boast old, majestic churches.

Don’t forget to dig in to some of the most delectable Batangueno dishes along the way! Missing bulalo, tapang Taal, lomi, and kapeng barako is a mortal sin!

How to get there : Take a bus going to Batangas City or Lemery and get off at Lipa bus stop. Most points of interest in Lipa are accessible by trike. To get to Taal Town, take the bus again or a jeepney going to Lemery and ask the driver to drop you off in Taal. 

Day trip suggested budget : P800-P1200/person

More info : Batangas Heritage Tour .

✅ WHERE TO STAY: BATANGAS HOTELS

BATANGAS BEACHES

And there are a lot to choose from. The towns of San Juan, Lobo, Mabini, Tingloy, Nasugbu, and Calatagan are all laced with ivory shores.

San Juan harbors the province’s most popular beaches today but if it’s too crowded for you, drive to the other side of Batangas. Nasugbu is starting to be a great alternative, too, and the sight of Mt. Batulao is a constant invitation to awaken the dormant mountaineer in you. Fortune Island is a good choice, too! Lobo has Malabrigo Beach. Tingloy has Masasa Beach and Oscar Island. Matabungkay used to be the “it” destination decades ago but it might still be a good place for a respite. The barely touched shores of Calatagan offer front row seats to watch a spectacular Batangas sunrise. The Punta de Santiago Lighthouse is another point of interest. Read my Batangas posts here .

How to get there: To get to Nasugbu, take a bus to Nasugbu. From here you can take a jeepney going to Lian or Calatagan.

Day trip suggested budget : P900-P1500/person

BORAWAN AND DAMPALITAN ISLANDS, QUEZON

They say that Borawan is a portmanteau, Boracay and Palawan. The more believable origin of the name however is bulawan, which means gold. But screw etymology, just get yourself to this paradise on your next holiday break!

The towering karst cliffs hug the white shores of Borawan, reminiscent of many islands in El Nido and Coron (but don’t expect them to match them). Borawan is only four to five hours away. It is one of the many islands off the coast of Padre Burgos and Pagbilao, Quezon, that nestle gorgeous white sand beaches! Other places to visit: Dampalitan Island and Puting Buhangin. There are no resorts here so camping is the way to go!

Warning though: It can get really crowded during peak season, which leaves the water murky.

How to get there : Ride a bus to Lucena City and alight at Lucena Grand Terminal. Take another bus to Unisan, get off at QCRB Bank (Padre Burgos), then take a tricycle to Aplaya, where you can hire boats to take you on an island hopping tour.

Overnight suggested budget : P1600-P2500/person (Group of 5)

More info : Borawan Island Travel Guide .

✅ WHERE TO STAY: QUEZON HOTELS

FESTIVALS NEAR MANILA

Mark your calendars! Here are some of the most energetic and most interesting festivals near Manila:

• Pahiyas Festival – May 15 in Lucban, Quezon
• Parada ng Lechon – June 24 in Balayan, Batangas
• Higantes Festival – November 23 in Angono, Rizal
• Giant Lantern Festival – Saturday before Christmas, San Fernando, Pampanga
• Hot Air Balloon Fiesta – 3rd Week of February, Clark, Pampanga

Pahiyas Festival is my absolute favorite. It is a celebration of the good harvest, in honor of San Isidro de Labrador. A parade roams around town passing by houses that are creatively decorated with vegetables and kiping, a colorful ornament made from rice (and yes, they’re edible)! If you get hungry, there’s always longganisang Lucban and pansit habhab! Traffic can be as dense as your former boss so you might also consider staying overnight in Lucban or neighboring town.

More info : Pahiyas Festival for Less than P1000 !

ANGONO, RIZAL and PAETE, LAGUNA

Appreciate art and get cultured in Angono, Rizal and Paete, Laguna!

Known as the art capital of the Philippines, Angono is as interesting as it is accessible. See the Angono-Binangonan petroglyphs, a prehistoric artwork that is considered the oldest in the country. Pay a visit to the house of Carlos “Botong” Francisco and get to know the national artist better. For the adventurous eater, try Soup No. 5 and fried itik in some of the more famous restaurants in the area!

One of the most underrated destinations in the country, Laguna holds a number of surprises for those who will take a step into its overlooked territory. Learn the art of sculpture and witness how this craft has become the center of the lives of the people of Paete! Go on a bakya shopping spree in Liliw! Overcome your fears and descend into the Underground Cemetery in Nagcarlan. The province is also dotted with several historic churches, ancestral houses, and unique restaurants!

✅ WHERE TO STAY: RIZAL HOTELS

✅ WHERE TO STAY: LAGUNA HOTELS

LAGUNA WATERFALLS

Chase waterfalls! Cavinti Falls (Pagsanjan Falls) may be just another waterfall to many but it is the getting there that makes a visit an unforgettable experience. Board a small boat and be amazed with how the boatmen masterfully conquer the rapids and the rocky stream on the way to the waterfall! Buntot Palos Falls is another best-kept secret of Laguna that may be attractive to the thrill-seeking adventurer!

And then there’s the spectacular Hulugan Falls in Luisiana that cascades near two other waterfalls.

Tired of chasing waterfalls? Choose one of the seven lakes of San Pablo!

FREEDOM ISLANDS

This one is not near Metro Manila, it is in it! Freedom Island and Long Island, collectively called  Freedom Islands , lie off the coast of Paranaque and Las Pinas. More formally known as  Las Pinas-Paranaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area , the Freedom Islands have a huge ecological role in the area. It is the last remaining mangrove forest and salt marsh frontier in Metro Manila.  These two islands also serve as a sanctuary for many marine lifeforms and a refuge for more than 80 species of birds, both local and migratory.

However, the Freedom Islands are under threat. The garbage the city produces — an awful lot of them! — has found its way to the islands. Environmental groups often organize clean up drives that you can join.

You cannot swim here but if birdwatching makes your day, you don’t need to travel to Pampanga or Batangas for it. The closest site is within Metro Manila.

✅ WHERE TO STAY: MANILA HOTELS

CORREGIDOR ISLAND

Brush Up on History! Corregidor is just a ferry ride away from Manila. You’ll be surprised that while many city dwellers have visited many islands in the far corners of the country, a good lot of them have never set foot on Corregidor. This tadpole-shaped island lies at the mouth of Manila Bay and was a strategic military base during World War II.

The remnants of the past remain standing and are just waiting for curious, open minds to come take a look. If ghost-haunting is right up your alley, they say it is also the place to be but maybe that’s too extreme.

How to get there: From One Esplanade (beside SM Mall of Asia), take a ferry to Corregidor.

Day trip suggested budget : P2500/person

Retrace the Death March! Sounds like an emotional torture but this activity can be very enlightening and rewarding to history buffs! And since you’re already in Bataan, don’t miss the chance to visit Mt. Samat and some of the province’s beaches.

If you can also visit in November, take part in Pawikan Festival and witness the turtle hatchlings’ return to the sea.

PUERTO GALERA

A bus and a ferry ride away, Puerto Galera has been the go-to summer destination among city-dwellers for beach activities such as swimming and beach bumming. (Ha, I know what you’re thinking!) But there’s more to this Mindoro paradise than what’s on the surface! Puerto Galera is a great diving destination. Declared a Man and Biosphere Reserve of UNESCO in 1973, it is one of the destinations with the richest marine biodiversity in the world.

When doors open, we tend to overlook what’s right in our own front lawn. Manila itself is blessed with many culturally and historically rich sites but if you want more, the surrounding provinces can definitely deliver.

✅ WHERE TO STAY: PUERTO GALERA HOTELS

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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where and cheaper private beach in batangas or pool in antipolo?i was planning to have a outing with my relatives hope you can help me thank you

Look up Acuatico, you and your relatives might find that place very relaxing, EXCELLENT buffet food selection, friendly staff, very clean accommodation. You have beautiful pool & private access to beach as well.

if you’re going to Batangas, i suggest go to Laiya (fine white sand) . theres a lot of cheap hotels/resorts available there :)

ang daming pwedeng puntahan pala sa Luzon ;)

lovely deeds for bakasyonistas

Where is Puerto Galleria, how to get there?

Puerto galera is in mindoro. Go to batangas pier and ride a banca/ferry going to puerto galera. There are lots of affordable acccommodation there.

Great stuff! I’ve seen the Basilica in Taal, and yes it is grand. Trekking in PInatubo is actually recommended as it is fairly easy (although I guess that is a relative thing hehe.) Oh and for Corregidor, try joining those Amazing Race-like contests they usually have. It will allow you access to some of the more unusual places like this very small duckwalk tunnel filled with some creepy crawlies :P

Glad to have stumbled on another site from people who just love to see the world and share it. Will keep on reading more stuff. Thanks for sharing!

– Ray for Lynne-Enroute.com

where in puerto galera is that?

a lot. You can also see that in one of the surrounding beaches, that you can go into with a friend bangkero. Here, look at my pic

boquete island near barangay sto niño…

I’d want to know as well. Didn’t see something like this the last time I went to Galera. :D

Haligi Beach is normally part of island hopping tours. :)

ganda ng pilipinas hnding hindi ko pagpapalit s ibang lugar. mpp wow phil k tlg!

how bout the prices?? :)

great list… :D

Is there a place to stay when one gets to this island near mauban, Quezon.

You can try Sampitan Beach Resort Kubo hut for 1000 to 1500 and hotel rooms for 2500 search on FB Sampitan Beach Resort for further info

you can stay in hotel in the downtown…

[…] 15 great destinations near Manila.  […]

I never realized there were so many worthwhile places nearby Manila worth visiting. I think it’s time I finally my way over to the Philippines now that I’m based in SE Asia.

Did they bring back boating in Pinatubo crater lake? When I was there in May 2013, boating wasn’t allowed :(

You forgot Cagbalete Island! It’s the Boracay of Quezon! Just 3-4 hours drive from Manila.

how to get there?

Cannot be compared to Boracay.

If you want to get wild and abuse yourself, the place is bora. If you just want the fresh breeze of the pacific ocean with white sandbars, cagbalete is the place.

One of the best (if not the best) resort in Cagbalete Island is Joven’s Blue Sea Resort… They’ve got the perfect location amongst other resorts there… and yeah, fresh breeze that can last for 30-45 mins.!

boracay sucks…..no real history…just an overpriced pretty beach surrounded by an architectural disaster… now Palawan….that is a beautiful place…real nature

How much is the suggested budget for a day trip? Thanks! :)

went to Cagbalete last weekend. We were 4. Our budget per person was 1500-2,100 (inclusive of activities).

Food ang cottages or room to stay? Included in 2000???

I wish to visit all these places someday!

The last time I went to Matabungkay beach, it wasn’t pleasant. The water was dirty cause people on the rafts were throwing their left overs on the water. :( Some plastic cups and paper plates were on the sand underwater and it’s pretty dirty.

We used to go there for vacation when I was younger and I remember it being beautiful. I hope they clean/cleaned it …

Hi Laine! Same sentiments. I actually wrote a separate entry about Matabungkay here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2013/03/matabungkay-beach-lian-batangas-philippines/

Wow. This is amazing and very informative. Most of the travel blogs nowadays just describe the place but doesn’t tell you how to get there. If they do tell you, it’s not as detailed. It would be better though if you also give an estimate of the cost of the commute, entrance fees, etc… Of course, those prices change without prior notice, but it’s good to get at least an idea.

enough for faraway places….i will visit these nearby during summer…thanks

If I may make a suggestion, the writer should also put in this list the Sierra Madre Mountains of Rizal and Quezon. Just take Marcos Hwy from Marikina going East and in less than 2.5 hours, you are in majestic and sweater cool Luzon Highland country.. Its like u went to the Sacada’s but much much closer. Go a little bit further and you hit Lamon Bay, Quezon off the Pacific Coast. Take the round about going South, you will hit Real, Quezon and Famy, Rizal back to Manila going by Laguna de Bay and Antipolo, Rizal.

I fully agree. Visit the mountain ranges of Marikina-Infanta road passing thru Tanay …you’ll be amazed with fantastic views of nature.. just 1.5hours from SM Masinag, Antipolo straight along Marcos hiway.. you will be in paradise like destination.

Hi Pio! Thanks for your input! We’ve been receiving a lot more suggestions that we’re starting to consider a Part 2. :)

You can include the Windmills of Pililla, Rizal along with Daranak Falls, and Regina Ricca Church in Tanay, Rizal. :D To go to Pililla Windmills, ride a bus at Ortigas Ave. Going to Infanta, Quezon. Then tell the conductor to drop you at Brgy. Halayhayin, Pililla, Rizal – to the windmills. You can walk inside the Mahabang Sapa Feeder Road, where the windmills are erected. Going to Daranak, you can ride a jeep going to Sampaloc, Tanay at Tanay Intersection. The entrance to Daranak Falls is along the Road. Same as with the Regina Ricca Church which is around 7 km ahead of Daranak Falls.

Cost of travel? 500-1,000 pesos. But it will be cheaper if you have a car.

Please include Caleruega Church, were people can do picnic as well (entrance fee Php50) and bring some feeds for the koi. Take NASUGBU bus at Coastal Mall and drop off at Evercrest then ride a tricycle (don’t forget to get driver’s mobile number for pick up) Transpo budget less than Php500.00 roundtrip.

Please add lake hopping in San Pablo City, Laguna.

Hi Jen! I actually mentioned it in the article. :D

best package for a tour near manila for 6 person :( can you refer someone? :(

Hi Pam! You might want to contact Harry Balais of 7107 Islands Tours. Email: [email protected] Mobile No.: +639176274945

very informative and great blog! thumbs up!!

Thank you! :)

Anu ang feel m puntahan angela?? Haha

Alam mo na yan Teh! Haha

ang ganda nman

Hahaha.. sa zambales punta kami bukas..sabihan ko kayo kung maganda

Hi Dobie Ann Onato. Try to visit Casa San Miguel in brgy san miguel,San Antonio zambales.

Tara na! :)

pwede na ba ulit magboating sa pinatubo? kasi last week di pa rin pwede?

pano ung sa taal crest…..interested aq

Among the places listed above, its Angono I really wanted to visit. They have preserved their art and culture despite the modernization.

wala bang manila lang? driving in the philippines pa lang kasi mastress ka na agad

Great post . And i had no idea that there is hot balloon fiesta happening in Philippines in February ! Cant wait . Always wanted to see one ! Awesome .

waw! the color of water in Mount Pinatubo or i say the lake is awesome. Nice shot. and the boat is the same as the fiber boats used in Puerto Prinsesa Underground River. Right ? hehe ..

Regards, Lester Moore http://phptourism.blogspot.com/2014/10/hotspots-in-the-philippines.html

that boat ride almost gave me nightmares

haha .. cool !

Whoever made this, thank you very much. kindly have time to do more. and please tell me how to get to Haligi beach, please? Thanks! :)

I love to travel..looking forward to visit these awesome places! ^_^

oh wow I am definitely bookmarking this post! great suggestions! thanks for sharing

styleandchocolates.blogspot.com

Pandin Lake also starts to carve its name in the list of Tourist Spots in the Philippines. The lunch in the raft in the middle of the lake makes it a must-place to visit in the Philippines. http://phptourism.blogspot.com/2014/12/lake-pandin-tourist-spots-in-laguna-philippines.html

I really disdain the practice of some businessmen puting raft in the middle of clean water. I was in Matabungcay beach and you cant apreciate anymore the beach because of those kubo looking raft. This kubol is tied to a an anchor near the shore and posed danger to swimmer. Plus th practice of most filipinos of throwing anything on the water.

This will be a great help for me. i’ll try these places this year.

great blog. I already added all the 15 to my list of destination.

8 of 15….Done!!!

of course you call that cheap

Mount Pinatubo is amazing, It is safe to swim there? :D http://touristspotsfinder.com/

Last I heard swimming is not allowed….

Yes. BUt there’s a part where you cant swim because the water is beyond BOILING POINT

Dear, water cannot go beyond boiling point. It can only turn to steam.

:) Images here ► http://touristspotsfinder.com/2015/01/mount-pinatubo-lake-trekking/

Baler, Hundred Islands in Pangasinan, Vigan and the rest of Ilocos Tourists destinations should be on the list.

Bakit nga kaya wala sa listahan ang Baler? It is just 5-6 hours by bus from Manila (3.5-4 hrs by car). Beautiful beach, fantastic surf, verdant forests, amazing waterfalls, crystal clear rivers, etc. etc. Comparatively cheap accommodation and good food too..

Boat ride in the mt. Pinatubo lake?

try one laiya beach resort in san juan batangas very nice and affordable

I did #3…need to come back to Philippines to explore more…so many beautiful places.

thanks for the info on travel destination..

try calaguas island in camarines norte-bikol..

the blog is about destinations NEAR Manila.

Its about time to revise your list… include in your list the cavinti underground river and cave complex in cavinti, laguna..its only 3 hours away from manila..its rock formations are at par with the more famous Puerto Princesa Underground River and sumaguing cave in Sagada..what makes it better than the PPUR and Sumaguing cave is that it has 98 chambers though only 2 are open to the public and of course its nearer to manila and definitely cheaper!

Mganda sa calatagan..kitang kita mga coral reefs linaw kc tubig..

thank you , you don’t know where my paradise yet and I wont tell I don’t want it to be discovered

thank you my paradise is not on the list i dont wanna it to be discovered

sobra maningil ang mahal ng bangka per head pa grabe mabuti pa mag hongkong mura na ticket maganda pa

I agree with Yen. You forgot Cagbalete Island. We’ve been to Nilandingan Cove (resort in Cagbalete Island) and the owners were very hands on and they treated us like family. We will definitely be back there this coming April.

You should checkout STELLAMARIS BEACH in BAGAC ,BATAAN

Vsit my hometown La union #sanjuan surfing capital of the north

Oh, to be young and adventurous! What a wonderful way to see the sights!

one day I’m gonna go to those beautiful places

Wer is this in the picture…??

Baka walang pumunta dyan, kasi yong iba nagkukunwari na mayaman sila.

This place is Angat Dam in Norzagaray Bulacan, about 2 hrs away from SM Fairview in Quezon city. It is called Little Baguio because of beautiful view and cool wind. It is in the Sierra Madre mountain range.

Another photo of Angat Dam

how to get there po?

It’s summer time na!swimming na yan^-*

Alam ko yan s may San Antonio zambales yan ANAWANGIN ganda dyan fresh air ang beautiful water

poor traveler? LOL the poor dont do travels like that hahaha

Im done with all these places. Sometimes we get so busy making money that we tend to forget to make memories…

Dear Admin, your kindly correct your picture caption “Other side of Anawangin” as it is not Anawangin but Agnaem Cove.

[…] this (Travel Goals!) to check places worth visiting if on a tight budget. Have fun! […]

sad kasi bawal na magboat sa Pinatubo crater :(

Try the hot springs in Laguna pansol swimming falls jjust one bus ride from Cubao, Quezon City. Overnight swim in the warm water will surely refresh and ease your tension and stress.

ok sana mt.pinatubo.kaso andmi ng bawal gwin.

Madlum, Bulacan is also a beautiful place just two hours away from Manila. Spelunking in Bayukbok cave, hiking in Mt. Manalmon, and zipline can be done (but just be careful of the river). The people are very nice and accommodating, and star gazing is perfect as the skies look too beautiful to look at, even without telescopes. Also, at the shallow parts of the river we were able to see small shirmps. Just search images in google and you’ll find the place breathtaking.

This is awesome.i like to travel but am poor.hehe

Boat Rental

800.00 – Borawan Island 1,200.00 – Borawan + Dampalitan Island 1,800.00 – Borawan + Dampalitan Island + Puting Buhangin/Kwebang Lampas

Contact Person : Nonoy 09122056993

[…] Here’s some beautiful places to put on your list with you limited budget Poor Traveler. […]

reading this makes me wanna go to tagaytay , alone :)

Wow on #12!!! My parents and I moved to Parañaque even before I entered school and left only when I got married. Yet, I’ve never heard of Freedom Islands until now. Thanks for writing this, Yoshke.

We always visit Clark Pampanga to watch and ride hot air balloons! :)

[…] Here’s the link: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2013/03/15-great-destinations-near-manila-philippines/# […]

I got a private island I go there every year november hunting and fishing staying there for 8 days more of survivalist its 4 hrs from manila

[…] 15 CHEAP BUT AWESOME Destinations Near MANILA, Philippines […]

Thanks for this. These look really interesting. Our next destination is the Phillipines – we’ll be there in February.

I want pero wala kasama at wala pa budget. Keynis

Guys.. i am spending 3 nights in AC and am looking for an place to spend 2 nights… not far from manila… please help

THANK YOU FOR SHARING

I want to go at those places right now! Lol missin Philippines so much… I really will go to these places when I go home at the of this year ^_^ anyone who’s up for adventure? ^_^

[…] “15 Cheap but Awesome Place to Visit near Metro Manila”  – I am so excited for my annual leave that I keep on looking for things to do when I go back in Manila. Of course researching is the best way to get the best deals right? So here I am working it out and noting each place that would be a great place for me to spend my vacation! […]

how about masungi georeserve in tanay?

Hi.. M fllying to las pinas city. Can someone guide me to travel destinations near to las pinas?Will b my frst time in Philippines.

I loved visiting the Philippines and all you great vacation spots and beaches! I loved getting a good tan while enjoying a fresh buko :)

that mt. Pinatubo photo is stunningly beautiful! A lot of beautiful places in the Philippines indeed.

im going to manila with my fiance in november. we are looking for a quiet place to stay not to far of a trip from manila. even a short flight is ok. not to touristy. a nice beach and some authentic phillipines culture. any ideas?

thank you in advance

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Weekend Getaways Near Manila: Top 15 Destinations For Your Next Road or Day Trip (Philippines)

by Aileen Adalid Philippines , Road Trips 12 comments

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There are plenty of activities to try within Metro Manila — a food trip to Binondo’s Chinatown , a window-shopping spree in Taguig’s Bonifacio High Street, a leisurely walk through the historic Fort Santiago in Intramuros , a night of fun in Makati’s Poblacion, and so much more! After all, it is a melting pot of various urban delights; however , there are times that it wouldn’t be enough, especially if you’re looking for the allure of the Philippines’ beaches and natural beauty. (Weekend Getaways from Manila)

So if you need t o take a break from the hustle and bustle of the busy metropolis, there are several nearby destinations that you can try in North and South Luzon as a road trip itinerary. They make for great weekend getaways from Manila due to the close proximity as well as the efficient expressways. So without further ado, here are some of the best weekend getaways or day tours from Manila that you can try for exciting adventures or simple relaxation!

Best Tours in Manila?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in Manila which features the best activities in the metro and more!

Top photo by: Shutterstock

Table of Contents

Photo by: Shutterstock

With its cool climate and vibrant scenery,  Tagaytay  city is a popular go-to-place for quick weekend getaways from Manila. It’s near enough the metro to make it easily accessible, but far enough to make each visit feel like a vacation.

To date, there are plenty of places to see and things to do in Tagaytay City and you can visit them all in a weekend — if not in just one day , depending on your planned itinerary. To list a few of them…

Wanna take it up a notch ? Try hiking to Taal Volcano !

• People’s Park in the Sky: Another favorite attraction as it is the highest point in the city where visitors can enjoy the chilly weather as well as the incredible views of Taal volcano along with the cityscape. .
• Calaruega Church & Pink Sister’s Convent : A basic itinerary to Tagaytay City includes these two famous churches, known for their beautiful architecture, if not a perfect place for devotion. .
• Skyranch: A leisure area with its own mini amusement park. It has become a go-to destination for the barkada , friends, and families, with the Sky Eye being one of the biggest Ferris wheels in the country. .
• Mahogany Market: Tagaytay Mahogany Beef Market is a famous go-to place for both locals and visitors when buying fresh beef meat. Along with this, eating bulalo is a must when you’re in Tagaytay so head on over here and try a scrumptious bowl at an affordable price! .

Aside from these tourist attractions, Tagaytay is also well-known as one of the best weekend getaways from Manila for staycations and spa treatments . Various hotels and accommodations offer packages for families, couples, and groups of friends who want to relax, enjoy the cold weather and bask in the scenic views of the city. .

Where to stay?  See the top Tagaytay hotels What else to do? Check out these best Tagaytay tours How far from Manila? About 1.5 hours, see Google Maps for options

Due to its close proximity, a visit to Batangas is usually combined with Tagaytay as one of the options for weekend getaways from Manila. Besides, with its varying pristine beaches, delicious food, and stunning views, there are tons of things to do that can fill up your itinerary.

Batangas is a huge province and towns like Calatagan, Nasugbu, Mabini, San Juan, and Tingloy are just one of the many places where you can enjoy its delightful shores and local delights such as lomi, kapeng barako, tapa, etc . To start with, consider any of the below…

Related read : First-Timer’s Guide to Anilao Diving

• Tingloy: An island near Mt. Gulugod Baboy that is known for its laid-back Masasa beach — perfect for those who want to escape the bustle of nearby Anilao. The path that leads to the shore is also a sight to behold what with its rice fields and friendly residents. Another option is Sepoc beach on the western tip which has a great viewpoint. If you want to take it a step further, ride over to Sombrero Island to do diving or snorkeling since the marine life is part of the ecosystem that is around Anilao and Verde Island . .
• TIP: For some thrill, drop by nearby Maragondon’s Mt. Palay-Palay or Mataas na Gulod Protected Landscape in order to climb the iconic ‘ Pico de Loro ‘ which is a tall protruding rock. .
• San Juan: The most well-known barangay will have to be Laiya ! Due to the white sands and clear waters, the area has since been laced with a number of resorts and guesthouses. .
• Lian: Notable is Matabungkay Beach that was originally discovered in the early 50s by sun-starved Germans who were living in Manila. You will absolutely love its white shores! .
• Lobo: If you’re still up for some more beaches to check off your list, head over to this southernmost tip of Batangas to visit Malabrigo Beach . It’s a different kind of scene though given that the shore is carpeted with pebbles — but it still makes for quite a sight to see! Nearby you can also check out the Malabrigo Lighthouse. .
• Calatagan: Facing Verde Island, Calatagan enjoys being a part of the ‘Coral Triangle’; therefore, visitors can enjoy the rich marine life in its waters. A lot of people also seek out Manuel Uy Beach Resort for its camping scene as they go about their day exploring local highlights such as Starfish Island that has a magnificent sandbar. There is also the Cape Santiago Lighthouse which is said to be one of the oldest in the Philippines. For families who have kids though, head on over for some water fun at Aquaria Water Park — though there are also other activities for adults to enjoy such as jet skiing and others. .
• Lipa & Taal: Once you’ve had your fill of Batangas’ natural beauty, it’s time to explore the cities of Lipa and Taal that are both laden with historic sites like Taal Heritage Town , as well as grand churches like Lipa Cathedral . If I may add, there is also a unique Bali-inspired resort nearby that you can visit for a day called Cintai Corito’s Garden . .

Where to stay?  See the top Batangas hotels What else to do? Check out these best Batangas tours How far from Manila? About 2 hours, see Google Maps for options

Located in Central Luzon, Zambales is a region that is known for its sandy beaches and coral reefs — much like Batangas. Nevertheless, there are a number of key sights that separates it from the rest of the weekend getaways from Manila, namely…

• ★ Anawangin Cove and Nagsasa Cove: Wanna enjoy crescent-shaped beaches of cerulean waters that are uniquely speckled with grayish volcanic sand from Mt. Pinatubo’s eruption years ago? If so, these coves are a must to see! The surrounding cliffs that rise several feet up high also make for great viewpoints, if not great locations for nice drone shots. .
• Capones and Camara Islands: From Pundaquit Beach , go on an island-hopping spree to Camara (15-minute boat ride) followed by Capones (additional 10 minutes). The latter is bigger than the former and with more sights to see such as a lighthouse that offers 360-degree views of the island. All and the same, both places feature scenic rock formations and boulders that are set against high cliffs. .
• Potipot Island: Found off the coast of Zambales in Candelaria is this island that literally translates to “small white sand”. This oval-shaped expanse prides itself on its powdery sand beach — add the tranquility that it offers and it definitely makes for an attractive getaway. Visitors can even choose to do a camping experience on-site. .
• Liwaliwa Beach: Found in San Felipe, its gray sand might not seem attractive at first but its sweeping shoreline gives enough space for everyone — especially during low tide. Plus, if you’re into surfing, the powerful waves will make any surfer the time of their life. .
• Otherwise, you can book a guided packaged tour from Manila . For other options i n the area, you can do a volcanic ash massage, apply a mud pack at Pinatubo Spa Town, or visit and interact with the Aetas in a nearby Aeta village . If you still have time after exploring the crater of Mount Pinatubo, you can also visit other attractions such as Capas Shrine , Japanese caves and tunnels, and ancestral houses in Zambales. .

Where to stay?  See the top Zambales hotels What else to do? Check out these best Zambales tours How far from Manila? About 4 hours, see Google Maps for options

» SUBIC: Technically a part of Zambales, I decided to separate this into a sub-section since it is a municipality that holds quite a range of beach getaways and recreational activities. As a former US Navy facility, it sure has a lot to offer for visitors — from beach resorts, recreational places, theme parks, and even shopping centers!

A one-day road trip is actually possible to explore the best of Subic Bay, but to make it one of your weekend getaways from Manila is a better choice! Some of the things to do in Subic are…

Related read: Inflatable Island Travel Guide

• Ocean Adventure : Considered the best Subic tourist spot, Ocean Adventure is the first to open a marine theme park in Southeast Asia. It offers tourists an extensive list of water activities such as swimming and interacting with sea animals, as well as a large collection of marine life. The highlight attraction is the up-close encounter with sea lions and dolphins through animal shows. To avail of affordable Ocean Adventure passes, book online . .
• Zoobic Safari: A 20-hectare safari where visitors can see wild and exotic animals in their natural habitat. The park has areas made especially for different kinds of creatures such as bearcats, camels, wild cats, birds, reptile species, and many more. A must-try experience in Zoobic Safari is feeding the tigers from a protected vehicle — you’re sure to see their sharp teeth and hear their loud roars up close! .
• Treetop Adventure: Yes, Subic Bay definitely has it all; from animal encounters and beach getaways to thrilling activities for adrenaline junkie travelers. This theme park offers thrilling experiences such as ziplines, Canopy Ride, Superman Ride, interactive free fall, and many more. .
• Duty-Free Shopping: Aside from visiting attractions, shopping for pasalubong (souvenirs/gifts) is a must when visiting a new destination. Lucky for you, Subic Bay is known as a haven of Duty-Free Shops where travelers can score cheap items, especially imported chocolates, chips, and even liquors. .

Where to stay?  See the top Subic hotels What else to do? Check out these best Subic tours How far from Manila? About 2.5 hours, see Google Maps for options

Just 2 hours away, Pampanga is a great choice for weekend getaways from Manila not only because of its theme parks and history but also for its local cuisine. Some key highlights are…

• The Sandbox: This attraction is located in the town of Porac and it offers different outdoor activities for every kind of traveler looking to try roller coaster zip line, rappelling, wall climbing, free-falling, ATV rides, giant swing, and aerial walk challenge! These are just some of the must-try activities that will challenge your balance and flexibility. .
• Aqua Planet: A 10,000-hectare resort that features about 38 thrilling water slides and attractions including Aqua Loop, Superbowl, and Tornado. To purchase admission tickets, book online . .
• Old churches: The province of Pampanga is also home to several historic churches and most are considered as national treasures because of their intricate designs and unique beauty. Some of the churches to visit includes Betis Church of Guagua , Metropolitan Cathedral of San Fernando, and San Guillermo Church of Bacolor . Catholic devotees not only visit these churches in Pampanga, but it’s also known for doing Visita Iglesia every Holy Week. .
• Culinary Heritage Tour: Pampanga is dubbed as the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines” because most of the all-time favorite Pinoy food including sisig, tusino, and kare-kare originated here. Naturally, Kapampangans are known as good cooks given that every household and restaurant can whip up great-tasting dishes. So when visiting Pampanga, don’t miss the chance to try their exotic and traditional delicacies. Visit some of the well-known ‘Old Kitchens of Pampanga’ that includes Atching Lilian Borromeo’s Kitchen , Kabigting’s Halo-Halo , Susie’s Cuisine, and Everybody’s Café . .
• ★ Hot Air Balloon Festival: This exciting and colorful festival is one of the most celebrated Pampanga tourist activities. Simply head to Lubao during the month of March to witness hundreds of hot-air balloons ascend to the sky. You can even get the chance to ride one of those balloons! The event also offers activities such as kite flying, skydiving, and even paragliding. .

Where to stay? See the top Pampanga hotels What else to do? Check out these best Pampanga tours How far from Manila? About 1.5 hours, see Google Maps for options

Bataan is one of the weekend getaways from Manila that is gaining popularity among travelers. There are several ways to reach the province and visitors can either board a ferry from Manila to Bataan that will take almost an hour of travel time, or ride a bus from Manila with almost 3-4 hours of travel time depending on the destination.

So why Bataan? Top of mind answer would be the fact that it is a top heritage and eco-tourism destination with many places and activities to offer, not limited to…

• Mt. Samat Nationa Shrine: Start your exploration of Bataan province by hiking the historic Mt. Samat, a place where the famous Dambana ng Kagitingan or Shrine of Valor can be seen on its summit. The huge memorial cross has a wall-engraved narrative of the Battle of the Bataan, and along with it is a memorial of fallen soldiers of World War II. Aside from history, the summit also offers a breath-taking view of the Bataan Peninsula. .

TIP : You can get a discounted ticket if you book online . ALTERNATIVE: Vigan , one of the few Spanish colonial towns left in the Philippines and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site — but it’s a bit far, about 6 hours from Manila. If you’ve got time, it’s a great place to visit though!

• Morong Beaches: Bataan also has exciting beaches that even offer fun water activities that are ideal for families and groups of friends. Banana boat rides, Jet Ski, and others, for instance, are offered by different resorts within the town of Morong. .
• Tarak Ridge, Mt. Mariveles: If you want to get up-close with nature and experience a different kind of adventure, hike, and camp at the Tarak Ridge in Mt. Mariveles. Majestic views and incredible sunsets await every traveler there who wishes to explore the highest peak in Bataan.

Other sights to visit in Bataan include Pawikan Conservation Center , where sea turtles are protected in a facility — or if you want to know more about the history of the province as well as the unfortunate story of the Bataan Death March, visit the Bataan World War II Museum . .

Where to stay?  See the top Bataan hotels What else to do? Check out these best Bataan tours How far from Manila? About 2 hours, see Google Maps for options

Tarlac is an emerging tourist destination in Luzon that will give travelers a different perspective on travel. The province is most often a pit stop for visitors going further north (e.g. Baguio ), so its beauty is sometimes less explored, making it one of the best weekend getaways from Manila.

Tarlac offers a wide variety of sights and adventures, and they are…

• KCT Kart City: An entertainment hub known for go-kart hustling! This place is ideal for visitors who are seeking thrills. The price range of go-kart rental is around P250 for 5 minutes. .
• Monasterio de Tarlac: Inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christo Redentor, this is a standout amongst the best spots to visit in Tarlac. The 30-foot statue of Jesus Christ stands and stretches along the serene and vibrant mountains of the province. .
• Goshen Resort: Located in Bamban, this place will give visitors a glimpse of Rome because of several structures that are inspired by Roman architecture. The main highlight of the site is a coliseum that resembles the famous Colosseum in Rome, making it an ideal place for photo opportunities. .
• ★ Isdaan Floating Restaurant: If you want to experience a unique eating experience, dine here and indulge in delicious local delicacies while being serenaded by local folk singers or walk in a pond full of coy fish for a relaxing fish spa.

Aside from these top tourist attractions, there are also natural wonders that you can visit such as Bulsa River , ANZAP Twin Falls, and Ubod Falls . .

Where to stay?  See the top Tarlac hotels What else to do? Check out these best Tarlac tours How far from Manila? About 2 hours, see Google Maps for options

Found in Calabarzon region, the province of Quezon has a rich heritage, a number of natural wonders, and some unique sights to entice you in making it one of your weekend getaways from Manila!

• ★ Borawan & Dampalitan Islands: Wanna feel like you’re in Palawan ‘s famed limestone cliffs, but not in the mood to fly too far? Head over to these islands that boast towering cliffs reminiscent of the ones that you’ll see in Coron and El Nido. In a way, it’s a ‘cuter’ copy but you’ll love how it’s coupled with its white beaches. So arm yourself with your camping gear and have some fun with friends and family! The island is equipped with stores, bath, toilets, and even rock climbing services. .
• Jomalig Island: It’s not easy to reach this place since you will have to do a 4 to 6-hour boat ride from Ungos Port — but if you want a vacation that’s unique and undisturbed, this is the place for you. Once you get to camp or stay in a hut accommodation, you can take your time exploring the various stretches on the island such as Kanaway Beach, Golden Sand Beach, Little Batanes, and many others. .

Tip: Join an organized tour by booking online .

• Mauban: This is a quaint town that you can consider if you want to explore black sand beaches, waterfalls, caves, and hills. For one thing, don’t forget to make a trip to Cagbalete Island which is great for its creamy sand that gets perfectly exposed during low tide. When it comes to waterfalls, check off Dahoyhoy Falls which is a layered beauty with a shallow pool, as well as Hagdan-Hagdan Falls that is a series of wide cascades ranging from 3 to 6 feet (hence the name that roughly translates to ‘terraces’). .

Where to stay?  See the top Quezon hotels What else to do? Check out these best Quezon tours How far from Manila? About 5 hours, see Google Maps for options

If you’re looking for a place for relaxation, art appreciation, nature activities, and nightlife — you don’t need to travel far either. After all, Rizal is one of the best getaways from Manila with the city Antipolo topping the list as the most sought after destination.

• Pinto Art Museum : A haven for art-lovers. The museum holds unique works of art from local artists and visitors can have their Instagram-perfect shot on the aesthetic corners and vibrant gardens of the museum.
• Hinulugang Taktak : This waterfall is considered as the icon of Antipolo City for so many years; but unfortunately, it became polluted and it underwent years of rehabilitation. Last 2018, it has once again opened its doors to the public and almost recovered its natural beauty.
• Antipolo Cathedral : This is one of the major pilgrimage churches in the Philippines. It is also known as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, making it a favorite amongst Filipinos when they want their newly-bought cars to be blessed. Pay a visit and grab some suman and kasoy (Antipolo’s local delicacies) outside the church for your snacks and as pasalubong , too.
• Cloud 9’s Hanging Bridge : Get a 360-view of Antipolo city when you cross this famous hanging bridge that’s found at Cloud 9 Hotel and Resort.
• Bar Hopping in Sumulong Highway : Another thing that Antipolo City is famous for? It’s the lively nightlife along Sumulong Highway! Several bars and karaoke hubs are aligned along this zigzag highway and these hang-out places don’t only offer good drinks but also a relaxing night view of the busy Metro Manila city’s skyscrapers.

Not a fan of DIY travel? You can book an organized Antipolo day tour that covers all the highlights of the city!

• You will love the spectacular view of Laguna de Bay on Sapot , a web-style viewing platform — or try the suspended bridge above a rainforest on a large Duyan (hammock).
• The best way to get to Masungi is via a private vehicle since there are available parking slots within the area. Visitors can also commute via jeep from Araneta Center, Cubao to Cogeo. Ride another jeepney bound to Sampaloc and alight at the Kilometer 47 Masungi Entrance. Expect a lot of walking and hiking that requires a lot of physical endurance so it is advisable to eat before the start of the hike.
• Tickets to Masungi Geo Reserve can also be purchased online . .
• Tanay: A popular combination that is made when visitors come by Tanay is the Mt. Daraitan and Tinipak River . The former is at the heart of the Sierra Madre mountain range with a 600-meter ascent, and only 300 people are allowed on the summit per day (so it’s best to come early to register for the hike). Meanwhile, the latter is an interesting trek in itself with the option to explore the Tinipak Cave. .
• Avilon Zoo: Said to be the largest zoological institution in the country, you can gain access here at a discount if you book online . Come roam around the 7.5-hectare facility that houses more than 3,000 exotic wildlife and learn their practices on how they strive to do conservation efforts. .

Where to stay?  See the top Rizal hotels What else to do? Check out these best Rizal tours How far from Manila? About 5 hours, see Google Maps for options

Laguna , as one of the near weekend getaways from Manila, is often the top go-to choice for quick swimming trips and out of town road trip vacations. It’s the perfect place to take a short break without having to go too far from Manila, given that it has a number of recreational resorts. From hot springs, lakes, and private resorts, the province has a wide range of options for the entire family or barkada .

• If you’re rather looking for a resort with exciting amenities and recreational activities, Caliraya Resort Club has swimming pools, wave pools, and fun water games. It’s only an hour away from Splash Island and you can purchase day tickets online too. .
• Found nearby is Nuvali in Sta. Rosa, an area packed with outlet malls and restaurants; thus, it has become a popular ‘stopover’ whenever you’re coming to Enchanted Kingdom or Tagaytay, or before you come back to Manila. Don’t forget to check out the Republic Wakepark is you’re up for wakeboarding with your friends. .
• ★ Pagsanjan Falls : Go and chase waterfalls by starting with Pagsanjan. It’s a known 300-feet roaring waterfall for locals as it is mentioned a lot in school (and also featured in the movie ‘Apocalypse Now’). Getting there is a bit of an adventure though since you will be hopping on a canoe or ‘bangka’, and I’m sure you’ll be awed by the skillful maneuvering of the boatmen as they move you upstream. .
• Mt. Makiling : This is the ‘crown jewel’ of the province, a dormant volcano that plays a popular role in a lot of Filipino mythologies and legends (it is named after a guardian spirit named Makiling ). As a visitor, you won’t regret taking the hike up especially since it’s not too difficult for beginners with an option to take a guide. .

Where to stay?  See the top Laguna hotels What else to do? Check out these best Laguna tours How far from Manila? About 5 hours, see Google Maps for options[

Photo from Shutterstock Corregidor is an island situated west of Manila near Manila Bay, and it is part of the municipality of Cavite . It is best known for its huge role back during WWII because given its rocky landscape (earning it the name “The Rock”) and strategic location, it helped form a line of defense against enemy forces to the country.

As such, a lot of visitors who are interested in history (which is akin to a trip to, let’s say, Normandy) would often make this one of their b est weekend getaways from Manila. After all, there are several ruins and memorials set up all over the island in order to brush up your knowledge of World War II — the Malinta Tunnel ‘s 1000-bed hospital area, Japanese Garden of Peace , Mile-Long Barracks , Pacific War Memorial Museum , Filipino Heroes Memorial , and more.

Beyond this, however, you can also enjoy the natural beauty of Corregidor by partaking in a biking trail that will lead you to scenic spots and then end your day afterward with a sunset experience at Battery Grubbs which is one of the 23 batteries on the island that has ‘disappearing’ guns perched on a hill (another option is at the Corregidor Island Lighthouse ). If you rather want to go on foot, you can trek through the Cadena de Amor; it will lead you to the tail of the island that grants you sweeping views of Manila Bay. .

Where to stay?  See the top hotels near Corregidor What else to do? Check out these best Corregidor tours How far from Manila? About 1 hour by ferry

Found on the southwest coast of Luzon, the island of Mindoro — which is sectioned into Oriental Mindoro (east) and Occidental Mindoro (west) — has a variety of unspoiled beaches and natural wonders to fill up anyone’s itinerary for weekend getaways from Manila. In fact, it’s a tranquil escape from the metro that is often not too crowded and the top things to do are as follows…

• ★ Puerto Galera: This is a popular beach town on the island wherein you can find a myriad of resorts, restaurants, and shops — and for a good reason, because the region has great white sandy beaches and marine life, making it a favorite among divers too (besides, it has been declared as a ‘Man and Biosphere Reserve of UNESCO’) . Don’t forget to drop by White Beach on the west of Puerto Galera for lesser crowds. .
• ★ Apo Reef National Park: Since I’ve already mentioned diving, this is the spot that you must NOT miss if you’re a diver. This is the Philippines’ largest coral reef system, as well as the world’s 2nd largest (next to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef). You will love the huge variety of marine species but fret not if you’re not an experienced diver because snorkeling is also an activity that you can do here (as well as dolphin-watching and lagoon-rafting). It is even possible to camp here for the night. .
• If you want to venture more to the south and see its remote places, check the Islands Of Bulalacao : Target, Aslom, Suguicay, Liawagao, Tambaron, Maasin, Pocanil, Sibalat, and Buyayao. .
• Alternatively, you can hike Mt. Iglit-Baco National Park and reach Mt. Iglit’s summit at 2,364 meters. Other than that, this ASEAN Heritage Park has a huge expanse of 75,445 hectares so you’ll have lots of fun crossing its rivers, meeting the Mangyans (an indigenous tribe in Mindoro), camping on the grounds, and more. .

Where to stay?  See the top Mindoro hotels What else to do? Check out these best Mindoro tours How far from Manila? About 1 hour by plane or 3 hours from Batangas — book a hassle-free bus + ferry transfer from Manila tours

Grab a car and venture out to the coastal province of Pangasinan , a hidden gem that will grant you adventures of sorts, notable of which are…

• Want a hassle-free day trip tour to these islands from Manila? Book online! .
• Patar Beach: Often dubbed as the ‘ Boracay of Pangasinan’, visitors love the long shoreline and white sand by the waters thereby making the province a common choice for weekend getaways from Manila. .
• Sunflower Maze: Found in Tayug, this 2,100sqm flower farm is a hit amongst locals and as the name implies, it’s a bit of a maze with a capacity of over 100 people and a tour that lasts up to 30 minutes. .
• Bolinao Falls: A mesmerizing set of 3 waterfalls by the Bolinao river, with the first one being the most popular as visitors love to dive from its jump-off point. .

Where to stay?  See the top Pangasinan hotels What else to do? Check out these best Pangasinan tours How far from Manila? About 3 hours, see Google Maps for options

Mention La Union to locals and they will instantly tell you that it is known for surfing — after all, it is the surfing capital of North Luzon. Rest assured, if you’re not a surfer, the province has lots to offer you if you ever choose it as one of your weekend getaways from Manila (if not a day trip from Manila!).

For starters, head on over to San Juan. The coastline has great swells that will thrill any surfer and the peak season starts from October to March. The most popular beach will be Urbiztondo , but there are other places too like Bacnotan , Taboc , and Darigayos . Once you’re done with some water fun, don’t miss out on the incredible sunset views on the beach and then capping it off with some good local food from the various beach bars and restaurants like Surf Shack , Mad Monkeys , etc.

TIP : Book discounted surfer lessons online !

If you want to venture out, go north to Luna and visit Pebble Beach for its unique landscape. Nearby, you can make a stop at Bahay na Bato which has interesting stone and wooden sculptures — or if you’re religious, visit the Spanish colonial church of St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish which is also listed as a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines.

Want a different scene? Drive to San Gabriel’s Tangadan Falls which has a beautiful pool that locals love to swim in. You can even ride a bamboo raft to get closer to the falls, if not do cliff diving. .

Where to stay?  See the top La Union hotels What else to do? Check out these best La Union tours How far from Manila? About 4 hours, see Google Maps for options

Yet another famous surfing town, but Baler in Aurora also boasts a range of attractions. Plus, you will love the winding yet scenic drive that leads to this town. To fill up your weekend, consider the following activities…

• When you’re up for some food grub, check out Kubli Bistro, Bayler View, or Myrtle Park. .
• Chase waterfalls: First up, jot down Ditumabo Falls for its grand cascades. Reaching it will take a 20-minute trek, but you will love the cool waters as you wash away the sweat from the hike. Another option is Caunayan Falls ; it may not be as grand as the former, but it’s a good option if you don’t want to hike. .
• Visit other beaches: Top of the list would be Dicasalarin Cove , a private beach but quite scenic due to its white beach and rock formations. Or you can also jump to Dicasalarin Bay for some snorkeling since it holds quite a lot of colorful corals. Other options would be Cemento Beach , Anlao Islets , or Diguisit Beac h. .
• Walk around town: Make a stop at Balete Park to witness its ‘Millenium Tree’ — a famous 600-year old balete tree that towers at 213 feet and with a diameter of 197 feet. Other landmarks to check out would be Baler Church, Museo de Baler , and Doña Aurora House . .

Where to stay?  See the top Baler hotels What else to do? Check out these best Baler tours How far from Manila? About 4.5 hours, see Google Maps for options

Much like Tagaytay , Baguio is a favorite amongst locals when they want a chilly escape from Manila. It was originally built as a hill station in 1900 during the American Colonial Period — which will explain why a lot of the key locations’ names below are western in nature. Nevertheless, its high altitude warrants you to pack a jacket but it will be one of those weekend getaways from Manila that you will never forget!

TIP: Want to do a day trip to Baguio from Manila instead? You can join this tour ! ADDITIONAL STOP: If you don’t mind going a bit further (about 5 hours more from Baguio), you can drop by the famed Banaue Rice Terraces !

• Treetop Adventures : Where you can try a zipline ride or a Tree Drop (harnessed free fall).
• Yellow Trail : An easy 1.5-kilometer path that will make you go around the pine tree forest.
• Butterfly Garden : A fun stop for families or kids. .
• Burnham Park: Yet another typical stop made by visitors, with families loving the option to rent a swan boat and paddle if not pedal through the Burnham Lagoon. Other activities that you can do is to try a Go-Kart or bike rental, if not just lounge around the grounds. .
• You can also drop by the nearby Wright Park if you want to try some horseback riding for a fee of Php200. .
• Strawberry Farm: Found in La Trinidad, this is a common must-do of tourists where you can basically pick strawberries yourself from the plots for an added fee. Otherwise, you can just buy fresh strawberries per kilo at a price that starts at Php250. .
• Colors of Stobosa: Just near the strawberry farm is this community project wherein you can find hillside mural houses painted in various colors — a bit similar to the Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan , Korea, but in more vibrant colors. .

Where to stay?  See the top Baguio hotels What else to do? Check out these best Baguio tours How far from Manila? About 3.5 hours, see Google Maps for options

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

Looking for more travel tips for the Philippines?

Check out my other detailed Philippine travel guides !

The Philippines’ capital may not have white sand beaches or picturesque hills, but it sure has a ton of nearby towns that can be turned into weekend getaways from Manila (if not day trips) to make the most of your stay!

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How to start a successful blog, 12 comments.

I love La Union, I’ve been there and it’s a great place. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Your article is very great in detail and recommendation. Can’t wait to go back here. I miss La Union

This is very informative! Please make about beach camping spot here in the Philippines :) thanks :)

Beautiful places! Good for relaxing. Can’t wait for this pandemic to be over and we can start exploring the beauty of our country.

What a great blog! Thanks for sharing. I really wanna explore those places when everything’s back to normal.

Thank you so much! I hope you get to soon!

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10 road trip destinations near metro manila + road trip tips for 2023.

Looking for places to go on a road trip near Manila this 2023?

10 road trip destinations near metro manila 2023, are you ready for your next road trip adventure let's get started.

1. Chill Tagaytay Road Trip

2. Laguna Historical and Adventure Road Trip

3. La Union Surfing and Foodie Road Trip

Looking for sample la union itineraries check our my post sample la union itineraries for 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 days tour or more.

4. Bataan Historical and Beach Road Trip

5. Pampanga Adventure, Historical, and Gastronomical Road Trip

Some of the must-do activities in pampanga for kids.

• Enjoy a day at Dinosaurs Island in Clark
• Visit Zoocobia Fun Zoo in Clark
• Fun day at Sky Ranch Pampanga

6. Batangas Beaches and Adventure Road Trip

Recommended island hopping tours in batangas:.

• Kay Ukno Beach in Batangas
• Island Hopping in Masasa Beach in Tingloy Island
• Bituin Cove Island Day Tour in Nasugbu
• Sepoc Beach with Sombrero Island Tour in Anilao
• Island Hopping at Secret Beach in Batangas

RECOMMENDED HOTELS & RESORTS IN BATANGAS:

• Pico Sands Hotel in Nasugbu
• Crusoe Cabins in Calatagan
• Palm Beach Resort in Laiya San Juan
• Matabungkay Beach Hotel in Lian
• Aquaria Water Park in Calatagan
• The Farm at San Benito in Lipa City
• Cintai Corito's Garden in Balete
• Buceo Anilao Beach Resort in Mabini
• The Stilts Resort in Calatagan

7. Quezon Beaches Road Trip

8. Bulacan Food and Adventure Road Trips

Recommended things to do in bulacan:.

• Mt. Manalmon Day Hike - an ideal getaway to any outdoor enthusiasts looking for an easy day-trip!
• Tila Pilon Hills and Falls Day Trek - go trekking on this fun day tour coming from Manila, bringing you to Tila Pilon Hills, the "Chocolate Hills" of Bulacan!

9. Zambales Adventure Road Trip

Recommended things to do in subic & zambales:.

• Inflatable Island in Subic
• Glamping Experience by Zoobic Glampz
• Yangil Tribe Experience and Hike in Zambales
• Zambales Beach Trip
• Kwentong Dagat Stay with Full-Board Meal & Vegan Cooking Class

10. Baler, Aurora Road Trip

Please watch my latest baler video:.

Planning a road trip? Here are some tips!

Plot your route, use navigation apps.

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Rest well before the trip, prepare for the worst, the great outdoors is waiting for you whether you’re planning a solo road trip or a long weekend getaway with your family and friends, a good vehicle is needed for that much-awaited road trip adventure. what are you waiting for plan now and go on an amazing and memorable road trip to one of these awesome road trip destinations near metro manila, follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 0 comments :, post a comment.

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Manila

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Anietra Hamper has traveled throughout Manila and the Philippines experiencing many of the top attractions and things to do off the beaten path.

The busy city of Manila, the capital of the Philippines , is an exciting and energetic metropolis. Hop on board any of the colorful and kitschy jeepneys to get around town. The iconic buses that usually pack in more people than they can hold are the main form of transportation and worth at least one ride during your visit, just for the experience.

Manila has an eclectic mix of modern attractions and rich history , as evidenced by the many cathedrals and tributes to the city's 16th-century establishment alongside modern-day malls and amenities.

Some of the best places to visit in Manila are the churches, monuments, and impeccably landscaped public parks. Manila is full of restaurants that serve up local fare, including fresh seafood.

The city is a regular target for typhoons, so the best time to visit the Philippines is outside of the rainy season, which is May through November.

For other sightseeing ideas, read our list of the top attractions and things to do in Manila.

Experience Manila's Oldest Section in Intramuros

Dive deep at manila ocean park, san agustin church and museum, stroll through rizal park, walk the grounds at fort santiago, admire quiapo church and public square, view the skyline from manila bay, discover filipino history at the national museum of the philippines, robinsons place mall, tour manila on bambike ecotours, shop for bargains at divisoria market, spend a day at the sm city manila super mall, where to stay for sightseeing in manila, map of tourist attractions & things to do in manila, manila, philippines - climate chart.

You will likely pass through the Intramuros whether you know it or not as you explore Manila. It is the oldest section of the city and characterized by its walled fortress. This section of Manila was once a walled city during Spanish Colonial times in the 1500s to the 1800s.

Walk around inside the three-mile-long stone wall that surrounds the district. While you can walk the grounds on your own, you might want to take a guided walking tour to learn more about the walled city and its significance to Manila.

Address: Bonifacio Drive & Padre Burgos Street, Manila, Luzon

The Manila Ocean Park is one of the most unique adventures in the city and one of the top things to do for families visiting Manila. Get interactive with marine life with the Sharks and Rays Encounter; Trails to Antarctica exhibit; or the fish spa, where fish clean your feet in a small pool of water.

The park easily fills several hours depending on how many encounters you try. In addition to the state-of-the-art aquatic facility, you will see exhibits of birds and other animals.

The Manila Ocean Park is billed as a marine theme park . Besides the educational aquatic attractions, there is shopping, dining, and HOTEL H20 , where you can sleep surrounded by an aquarium.

Address: Manila Ocean Park Luneta, Manila

As a designated UNESCO World Heritage site , the San Agustin Church is a national treasure and one of the most popular places to visit in the Philippines .

This Catholic church has a unique history that is reflected in the details of the building. If you look closely, you will see both Chinese and Spanish influences in the design. The church has been rebuilt several times after battles and natural disasters.

Pay close attention to the carvings on the large wooden doors that open to the chapel. If you have an interest in history or architecture, it would be worth your time to hire a local guide who can take you on a walking tour of the area and describe intricate details of the church that you may not notice on your own.

Address: Gen Luna & Real Streets, Intramuros, Manila, Luzon 1002

One of your first stops in Manila should be Rizal Park. Sometimes referred to as Luneta Park , this is a peaceful and manicured outdoor garden located in the heart of the city. The park is a social gathering place in Manila known for its open-air concerts and chess plaza .

The paved pathways through the park guide you through a lush landscape of blooming flowers, ponds, and more than 40 points of interest that range from statues to historical dedications. Of note is the century-old Monument of Rizal , which houses the remains of one of the Philippines' most celebrated heroes, Dr. Jose Rizal.

Be sure to stroll through the park to learn about the local flora and fauna. Keep your eyes open for the Narra tree, the national tree of the Philippines, and the small lake with an artistically raised archipelago structure in the middle.

The site of Fort Santiago is an impressive stop if you are visiting the city and it is one of the most important historical sites in Manila . This 16th-century fortress was key in protecting the Intramuros, which is the oldest district in Manila, known historically as the Walled City.

You can explore the grounds at a leisurely pace. Be sure to take note of bullet markings that are still visible in the fortress walls and stop by the visitor center for more detailed information about the fort.

Address: Gen Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, Luzon

The Quiapo Church is one of the oldest and most admired Catholic churches in Manila. The more formal name of the church is the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene .

Depending on the time of day, the plaza surrounding the century-old church can be quite congested, which makes it an interesting place to visit to admire the devotion of the Filipino people.

Fridays are the busiest days, when thousands of people pile into the square and pray at the church for novena. Despite the large gatherings of church devotees, this is one of the top attractions in the city.

Take time to see the inside of the church, and stroll through the market stands outside to buy fresh peanuts, mangoes, or necklaces from local vendors.

Address: Plaza Miranda & Quezon Blvd., Quiapo, Manila, Luzon

Strolling along the Manila Bay waterfront is one of the most enjoyable and scenic things to do in the city, and it does not cost anything to enjoy. The natural harbor is always bustling with activity. Take a walk along the Manila Baywalk at sunset for a great view of the city skyline.

The bayfront is accented by yachts and smaller boats anchored in the harbor, and open-air cafés where you can stop for a bite to eat. The bay front is also a popular place for locals taking in a morning jog.

Another relaxing way to enjoy Manila Bay is to book a sunset dinner cruise that will take you past local landmarks and includes dinner and live entertainment for an evening.

For a true exploration into the culture of the country, the National Museum of the Philippines is one of the best places to visit.

This museum has four main complexes including extensive collections and artifacts relating to art, archaeology, anthropology, zoology, biology, and natural history. The museum galleries help offer a sense of place, telling the cultural story beyond what you will find on your own visiting the city's many historical attractions.

Address: Padre Burgos Street, Manila, Luzon 2004

While a mall might not be on the top of your list for exploring the culture of Manila, Robinsons Place Mall has a surprising number of unique stores where you can find local items . While locals shop here, it's also a popular spot for tourists.

Be on the lookout for clothing, cosmetics, bags, and food that are unique to the Philippines. The mall is extensive, so plan time to walk the interior and explore the stores.

The mall's modern building is a stark contrast to the rustic and historic landmarks that surround it.

Address: Pedro Gil Corner Adriatico Street, Manila, Luzon

Manila is a pedestrian-friendly city , but if you want to explore the culture and history more efficiently, consider the Intramuros Bamboo Bicycle Ecotours .

These tours provide a unique, eco-friendly way to see urban Manila. By taking an ecotour, you are also supporting environmental sustainability efforts of local businesses.

Bambikes are locally hand-made bicycles custom-built from bamboo. The company has a social welfare initiative that employs villagers for the production of the bikes.

Address: Real Street, corner General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila

If you are in the mood to shop for a bargain, head to the lively Divisoria Market in Manila. It is located in the heart of Chinatown, where you will discover overflowing vendor stalls selling everything from fruit and spices to flip-flops and beads.

This is the best place to people-watch and take in the local flavor. The bustling atmosphere is like a flea market, and bargaining is the name of the game. You should only pay about 50 percent of the price of an item, and often you can get souvenirs for much lower.

Address: Claro M. Recto Avenue, Divisoria, Manila, Luzon

There's no shortage of places to shop in Manila, so if you want to fill your suitcase with treasures, plan a half day or full day at the SM City Manila Super Mall . It is like one-stop shopping for something to do in the city because the huge complex has retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment.

The SM City Manila is easy to spot. It has a mega globe structure on the grounds, which makes for a great selfie spot. This retail complex is popular with the locals, so it can get quite crowded.

If you are looking for more unique souvenirs, you might want to hit the smaller local markets but if you are after mainstream items, you are sure to find them at the super mall.

Manila hotels are quite affordable, even the high-end hotels. You will have no problem finding something in your budget on any side of town.

Luxury Hotels:

• One of the top luxury hotels in Manila is the Sheraton Manila Bay , which even provides all guests with butler service. It is a preferred choice for business travelers, but if you want a little extra pampering during your visit, the hotel offers top-of-the-line amenities.
• The luxury New Coast Hotel Manila sits on Manila Bay , so you have some of the best views in the city, and it is centrally located for easy walking downtown and to local restaurants.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• One of the most unique lodging experiences in Manila is Hotel H20 located at the Manila Ocean Park. Go to sleep in an aquarium-walled room and wake up next to marine life.
• The historic Manila Hotel is another mid-range lodging situated on Manila Bay close to many of Manila's attractions.

Budget Hotels :

• The affordable Red Planet Manila Binondo is highly rated and located close to Chinatown in Manila. The hotel is just a few blocks from several historic churches and the Divisoria Market .
• For a centrally located budget hotel the Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central is a good option. The Ramada is located close to many of the cultural sites and local transportation access points.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More of the Philippines: Manila is just one of the many great places to visit in the Philippines . There are so many additional side trips that you can add to your itinerary, from stunning beaches to other islands in the archipelago. Traveling throughout the Philippines is easy, so you can play it by ear as you review some of the top things to do in the country, from diving to exploring natural attractions like the Chocolate Hills on the island of Bohol.

16 Things to do in Manila + Tourist Spots

Manila is the Philippines’ main international gateway. But, let me tell you, Manila is more than just a jumpoff point to the Philippines’s vast tourist destinations.

As the country’s capital city, it is a bustling, bayside metropolis filled with modern-day attractions for all ages and interests. Manila’s cityscape is also perfectly blended with heritage sites from the Spanish colonial period, including the famous walled city of Intramuros, and the iconic citadel of Fort San Pedro.  There is so much to experience in Manila, and exploring it may seem a bit overwhelming, especially for first-time travelers, but with a well-planned itinerary, there is so much you can discover that you’ll love traveling here over and over again.

There’s a lot of interesting spots you can visit near the airport as well as places near Manila for day trips. So whether you’re in for just a short layover or have a few days to spare, there’s definitely something for you.

Here’s a list of beautiful places to visit in Manila including top things to do & the best Manila tourist spots.

To make your trip planning easy, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app. Seeing all your saved locations on the map will help you get started on planning your Manila itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

See also: Best Travel Apps .

View all travel tips on: Manila .

1. Intramuros

Marcos at Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila City, Philippines

Location : Near Central LRT Station. Taft Avenue/Bonifacio Drive, Manila City, Metro Manila . Save on Google Maps .

A welcome sight against peaking skyscrapers, Intramuros is a walled city that is often dubbed as the heart of Old Manila. It’s the oldest part of the city and dates back to the Spanish colonization period. Its thick walls have stood through time and entering them will take you on a trip back in history.

Intramuros was the seat of political power during the Spanish regime and its churches, courtyards, and buildings boast of the era’s finest architecture. You can easily enjoy the picturesque sites strolling throughout the area or while riding a “bambike” through a bamboo bike tour. You can even experience the scenic routes while riding a horse-driven carriage called a “kalesa”. The kalesa guided tour is a cultural immersion through the past as you pass by the beautiful and iconic historical sites such as Manila Cathedral, Palacio del Gobernador, Casa Manila, and the baroque-styled San Agustin Church, the Philippines’ oldest stone-built church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

When in Intramuros, do not forget to visit Fort San Pedro. It’s one of the country’s oldest stone citadel and a historic national monument that has been preserved through time. Other places to see in Intramuros include the Baluarte de San Diego, Plaza de Roma, Bahay Tsinoy, and the Ayuntamiento building. Intramuros is also packed with historic sculptures and statues, and you can easily spend a day reveling in its beauty. If you’re a bit pressed on time though, there are numerous tours you can choose from that will take you through the walled city’s cultural highlights.

Intramuros Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

See rates & book online

Intramuros Bambike Tour

Old Manila – Heritage Full Day Tour

White Knight Electric Chariot Intramuros Day Tour

Book your trip to Manila

Before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip! Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Manila Hotels Tours + discounts Flights Airport transfers WIFI Internet/Data SIM

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

Manila Airport-NAIA Shuttle Bus

The Mind Museum All Day Pass

COVID-19 RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen – Manila Drive Thru & Home Testing

Tagaytay Day Tour

Manila Private Car Charter

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2. Bonifacio Global City

Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines

Location : Metro Manila . Save on Google Maps .

Commonly called as BGC by locals, Bonifacio Global City is a financial and lifestyle hub in the city of Taguig. It is also often referred to as The Fort or simply Global City. This area teeming with multinational corporations, malls, luxury hotels, and high-end residential buildings. BGC is also quite popular for its nightlife as it is also home to the hottest clubs, bars, and restaurants.

A visit to BGC is also never complete without stopping over at Bonifacio High Street. Boasting of open-air, high-end stores, and diverse restaurants in the numerous shopping blocks, Bonifacio High Street is BGC’s retail and entertainment core. Also, if you want to shop with an interesting twist, I suggest you try the Venice Grand Canal Mall, where you can relax on a gondola ride on open canals and enjoy a great view of Venetian-inspired architecture. Other malls in BGC include SM Aura, Uptown Mall, and Market! Market!.

Bonifacio Global City is also a cultural hotspot. Colorful and gigantic murals painted by international and local artists line BGC, making the area a popular site for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Here, you can also visit the Mind Museum, a world-class museum of science that has over 250 collections that range from interactive exhibits, experiment demonstrations, exciting and unique programs, planetarium shows, and so much more. The Manila American Cemetery & Memorial is also located in Bonifacio Global City. It comprises 152 acres of land and is the largest US military cemetery. It was built to honor American and Filipino WWII soldiers and houses more than 17 thousand gravestones that are perfectly aligned in 11 plots to form a circular pattern. A white chapel stands on the cemetery’s far end, and on each side stands a hemicycle whose tablet walls are inscribed with the names of the missing. The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial is open to the public and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

BGC Travel Essentials

3. Okada Manila & Manila Bay Entertainment City

Location : New Seaside Dr, Tambo, Parañaque City . Save on Google Maps .

Okada Manila, formerly named as Manila Bay Resorts, is one of the premier destinations in Manila Bay Entertainment City. Its crowning jewel and Manila’s modern-day icon is The Fountain – an expansive multi-colored dancing fountain rivaling that of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and Vegas’ Bellagio. The fountain show starts at 6 PM and is free for public viewing.

Aside from The Foundation, Okada Manila’s unique architecture and picturesque interiors is also a sight to behold. The complex’s five-star hotel has 993 lavish suites and villas that have spectacular views of either The Fountain or of Manila Bay’s spectacular sunset. Another sought-after attraction here is Cove Manila – an indoor beach club that turns into a nightclub at night. It is equipped with highly advanced climate control, visual, sound, and lighting tech that provides perfect summer weather all year long, and an unparalleled multisensory nightclub experience. This day-to-night party experience is unique to Cove Manila in the metro.

Okada Manila is part of the Manila Bay Entertainment City project, an ongoing Vegas-inspired gaming strip that stretches up to 8 km along the famed Manila Bay. The project’s official name is the “Bagong Nayong Pilipino-Entertainment City” but is more commonly referred to as Entertainment City Manila. It includes integrated resorts that feature upscale hotels, casinos, dining, and entertainment centers including Okada Manila, Solaire Resort & Casino, City of Dreams & more

Okada Manila

See rates & reviews

Manila Bay Travel Essentials

Where to stay

Okada Manila Sunset Experience

Okada Manila Daytime Pass with Lunch Buffet

Okada Manila Tour and Dine (Guided Tour + Dining Gift Certificates)

4. National Museum of Natural History & the National Museum Complex

National Museum of Natural History in Manila City, Philippines

Location : Teodoro F. Valencia Circle, Ermita, Manila City . Save on Google Maps .

If you love the arts or prefer a relaxed trip exploring history and heritage, then the National Museum Complex is for you. You can even take a private museum tour that’s tailored to your interests. The museum houses collections in archaeology, natural history, ethnography, and fine arts that showcase the Filipino’s artistry and talents throughout time.

The complex includes four sections – natural history, fine arts, anthropology, and the planetarium. The National Museum of Natural History displays the biodiversity of the Philippines’ ecosystem with over 10 galleries on plants and animals. You can check out the actual skeletal remains and a real-life replica of Lolong — previously the world’s largest saltwater crocodile held in captivity. The “tree of life” is also a popular attraction. It’s a glass elevator with an intricate canopy that offers a bird’s eye view of the museum. The museum encourages interaction through hands-on activities, like drawing tables for children.

Another section is the National Museum of Fine Arts houses different works of national artists, including the famous Spoliarium by Juan Luna. It’s the largest painting in the Philippines. The National Museum of Anthropology features collections in anthropology and archeology. Here you can learn more about the culture of native people throughout time along with the Philippines’ ancient script – the “Baybayin”. The last section is the National Planetarium, where you can view real-life projections of celestial bodies. They also have different shows featuring wonders of astronomy through a full-dome Planetarium projector.

Manila Heritage Museum Crawl

5. Binondo (Manila Chinatown)

Carriedo Fountain in Binondo (Manila Chinatown), Manila City, Philippines

Location : Near Carriedo LRT Station. Manila City . Save on Google Maps .

You might not think that Binondo is a tourist destination because of its tight streets and old buildings, but it’s a cultural hotspot and one of the best places for a gastronomic adventure. The dim sum here is one you wouldn’t want to miss. There’s even a guided food tour that showcases Binondo’s best dishes and iconic churches.

Binondo or Manila’s Chinatown is buzzing with vibrant streetside shops that sell just about everything. It was established in 1594 and is considered the oldest Chinatown in the world. When in Binondo, you should visit Binondo Church (also known as the San Lorenzo Ruiz Basilica Minor). Built in 1596, the church is an iconic landmark that was built for Chinese traders that were converted to Christianism during the Spanish rule. The church holds masses in English, Filipino and Chinese. Aside from it, Binondo’s main streets, Escolta and Ongpin Street are other places you will enjoy exploring.

Binondo Travel Essentials

The Big Binondo Food Wok

Old Manila Filipino Food Crawl

Makati is the financial capital of the Philippines, and one of the countries’ biggest business districts. If you’re looking for a world-class hotel, then there’s no better place than its central business district located along Ayala Avenue. Makati is also famous for its shopping hub – Ayala Center. If you’re into shopping then you wouldn’t want to miss Greenbelt Mall which houses many international brands, luxurious boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment amenities. Jumping from one mall to the next is also quite easy on foot.

Another great place to stay and visit is Makati Poblacion. It’s known for its upbeat nightlife and is one of the best places for dining, drinking, and shopping. The area around Kalayaan Avenue is packed with dive-bars, street foods, and live music events. Makati Poblacion is also home to the high-end lifestyle hub, Rockwell Center, and avant-garde art galleries like the Pineapple Lab. What’s even better is that there are accommodations available for any budget – from backpacker hostels to lucrative hotels.

If you’re in Makati on a Saturday, a visit to the Salcedo Market is a great way to kill some time. They open from 7:00 AM and close at noon, and if you want to get first dibs on the best local produce, then I suggest you go there early. Aside from fresh fruits and vegetables, you can also get beverages, cooked foods, delicacies, and other interesting finds.

Makati Travel Essentials

7. Newport City & Resorts Word Manila

Marcos at Maxims Hotel in Newport City, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines

Location : In front of NAIA-Manila Airport Terminal 3. Newport Blvd, Pasay City . Save on Google Maps .

Just on the outskirts of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Villamor Golf Club, Newport City is a well-developed township complete with ritzy hotels, upscale residential condos, and business establishments. All these are integrated with the impressive Resorts World Manila and is a short walking distance from the NAIA Airport Terminal 3 via the Runway Manila FootBridge.

Aside from its proximity to the airport, Newport Mall is another reason that makes Newport City the best spot to kill time if you’re in for a layover. The mall is a four-story commercial center that includes luxury shops, a wide range of dining options, salons, a full-service spa, a play center, and a 3D cinema. Traveling with your family? A trip to the GameZoo will keep the kids entertained with arcades and thrilling 6D rides. You can also watch a live stage show in the Newport Performing Arts Theater here.

Spend a night (or more) & enjoy Newport City and Resorts World Manila’s many world-class entertainment & dining options. With world-class hotels, such as Marriott Hotel, Sheraton Manila, Maxims Hotel, Hilton Hotel Hotel, Belmont Hotel, Savoy Hotel & Holiday Inn Express integrated within the resort, you will want to stay here.

Resorts Word Manila Travel Essentials

8. SM Mall of Asia

Location : 123 Seaside Blvd, Pasay City . Save on Google Maps .

The SM Mall of Asia, often dubbed by locals as SM MoA or simply MoA, is not your average mall. It is one of the largest malls in the world, and aside from shopping, dining, and the usual amenities, it has a whole host of entertainment features that include an Olympic-sized skating rink, an amusement park, concert grounds, the Science Center, and the SMX Convention Center. The 65th Miss Universe was even held at the Mall of Asia Arena that can hold up to 20,000 guests.

The bayside grounds and amusement park cooled by the sea breeze, together with the mall’s extensive dining options make SM Mall of Asia a great place to visit over and over again. You can even enjoy a fireworks show on weekends. But it can get pretty crowded since SM Mall of Asia is extremely popular among locals and tourists. If you’re not into crowds, try visiting during weekdays during office hours.

SM by the Bay Amusement Park Ride-All-You-Can Day Pass

Where to go near Manila

9. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Bataan

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan

Location : Bagac, Bataan province . Save on Google Maps .

A historical and heritage haven, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan is a complex of beautifully restored Spanish-Filipino ancestral houses. The resort’s intricate architecture, landscape, and immersive tours will take you back to the glory days of Old Manila. Whether you take the Tramvia or a kalesa through its cobblestone roads or ride a balsa along the waterway, you will fall in love with the resort’s unique appeal. Stay a night in their Spanish styled, upscale hotel rooms or in your very own lucrative private casa that perfectly blends old world charm with modern amenities, and you’ll feel like you’re living in the shoes of the country’s elites during the colonial era.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Travel Essentials

10. Tagaytay & Taal Lake

Taal Volcano view from Tagaytay, Cavite, Philippines

Location : Cavite-Batangas province . Save on Google Maps .

Tagaytay’s cool weather, good food, outdoor parks, and family-friendly attractions make it a favorite weekend getaway from Manila’s busy and fast-paced lifestyle. Tagaytay is most known for its scenic view of the world-famous Taal Lake. The lake, or caldera to be more accurate, holds the iconic Taal Volcano – the smallest active volcano in the world. It’s a rare wonder, with the confusing description “a lake within an island on a lake on an island within a lake” that you would have to see for yourself. You will enjoy this view from different angles all over Tagaytay Ridge. What’s even better is that the ridge is speckled with numerous outdoor attractions such as People’s Park in the Sky, Tagaytay Picnic Grove, Sky Ranch, and many more.

When it comes to good food, Tagaytay won’t disappoint. For early travelers, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast at Antonio’s Garden or at the restaurants and cafes along Tagaytay ridge. You can also check out Sonya’s Secret Garden on the outskirts of the city for a great meal and for photo-ops. Tagaytay is also popular for their steaming bowl of “bulalo” or beef marrow stew – a perfect meal for the cool weather. Try getting some at Bulalo Point, Balay Dako, Leslies, and in the stalls of Mahogany Market.

Tagaytay Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Sky Ranch Tagaytay Ride-All-You-Can Day Pass

Paradizoo Admission Ticket in Tagaytay

Tagaytay Day Tour from Manila

11. Cavinti Falls (Pagsanjan Falls)

Location : Cavinti, Laguna . Save on Google Maps .

Pagsanjan Falls is one of the Philippines’ most well-known waterfalls and Laguna’s major tourist attractions. It’s a majestic three-drop wonder that can be reached via an exhilarating banca ride, popularly known as Shooting the Rapids. You can also reach the falls by hiking Pueblo El Salvador Nature’s Park and Picnic Grove. They also have view decks that allow you to see the fall’s different levels. But if you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience I highly suggest the banca ride. It’s a thrilling and scenic adventure where skilled boatmen navigate through turbulent crystal clear waters as you pass by magnificent greenery, rock formations, gorges, and smaller waterfalls. Once at the base of Pagsanjan Falls, you can also ride a bamboo raft that will take you behind its rushing waters towards Devil’s cave. Don’t forget to bring some extra clothes!

Laguna Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Pagsanjan Falls Private Day Tour from Manila by Vina Tour

12. Villa Escudero

Location : Tiaong, Quezon province . Save on Google Maps .

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience a relaxing time at Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort with its alluring blend of nature with rustic country life appeal. The place was founded in 1880 as a sugarcane plantation and was converted to a coconut plantation in the early 1900s. It houses the country’s first-ever hydroelectric power plant. Both the powerplant and the plantation are running smoothly to this day.

Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort is perfect for a day trip, or even an overnight stay. Eating at their world-renowned Labasin Waterfalls Restaurant is a must-try experience. Other activities here include exploring the Escudero’s private museum which houses one of the Philippines’ largest private collection of antiquities, bamboo rafting, and touring the resort on a carabao cart ride. They also have cultural shows and other recreational amenities.

Villa Escudero Travel Essentials

Villa Escudero Tour from Manila

13. Enchanted Kingdom

Location : Santa Rosa, Laguna . Save on Google Maps .

Located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Enchanted Kingdom is the Philippines’ first and only theme park. With seven themed zones, the park boasts of 20 major attractions that range from thrilling rides like the Space Shuttle and Disk O Magic to interactive 7D and 4D motion theaters, live attractions, and family-friendly activities. Their newest attraction, Agila: EKsperience is unique to the Philippines and showcases the country’s wonders through a flight simulation ride.

The park can also cater to up to 25,000 guests and accommodates in-group reservations. It’s a choice venue for events including birthdays, weddings, conferences, corporate team building activities, school programs, and even more. The park’s magical appeal continues to enchant visitors of all ages to keep coming back, that they even offer an “EKsperience the Magic Card” – a one-time purchase card that allows unlimited admissions for an entire year.

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

14. Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake

Location : Botolan, Zambales . Save on Google Maps .

Despite the tragedy brought upon its eruption in 1991, Mount Pinatubo continues to attract more and more people. The turquoise waters of its massive crater is a marvelous sight to behold, and trekking towards it is a scenic adventure that also involves 4×4 rides on lahar fields. You can DIY a day trip for it from Capas, Tarlac or Botolan, Zambales. You can also get a hassle-free package tour in Manila. If you are doing a DIY trip, you have to be at Sta. Juliana Tourism by 10 AM to book a 4×4 ride. Traveling through the mountain beyond that time is not allowed, because it takes about an hour for the 4×4 ride and at least 2 more for the trek on foot.

A trip to Mount Pinatubo can easily be done in a day, but since you have to travel very early to get there, staying near the area is also a great option. There are plenty of hotels and inns here, plus there are fun activities you can try before or after your trek to the volcano. You can try the relaxing volcanic ash massage at Pinatubo Spa Town, or bask in the rejuvenating Dolores and Bueno Hot Springs. You can also visit historical sites such as Campo Santo Município, O’Donnell Church, and Capas Shrine, or see some of the Japanese war tunnels and caves.

15. Hundred Islands & Pangasinan

Location : Alaminos Pangasinan . Save on Google Maps .

If you love beaches and tropical islands, then a trip to the Hundred Island is just what you’re looking for. Located in Alaminos, Pangasinan, it’s a national park that totals to over a hundred islands flowing with white sand beaches, caves, rock cliffs, and diverse marine life. Four of these islands have been developed for tourism – Children’s Island, Governor Island, Marcos Island, and Quezon Island.

There are tons to do in the Hundred Islands – from zip-lining and climbing the view deck in Governor Island, snorkeling in Quezon Island to cliff diving at Marcos Island. You can also go cave exploring, fishing, or try your hand at the numerous watersports available. If you have kids, they have plenty of family-friendly activities at Children Island as well.

There’s so much to do in the Hundred Islands that you will want to spend more than just a day here, and fortunately, there are several resorts on the island that you can stay at. You can even go camping for free along the beautiful beaches of the islands. If you’re planning a day trip, you will have to leave Manila by 2:00 AM because the Hundred Island National Park is about five hours from Manila so that you can maximize your time here. I suggest you get a tour so that you won’t have to worry about transport, and you can catch up on some sleep while you travel.

Pangasinan Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts Check Fares

Hundred Islands Day Trip from Manila

16. Corregidor Island

World War II Barracks Ruins in Corregidor, Cavite City, Philippines

Location : Cavite City . Save on Google Maps .

See more near Manila

Clark & Angeles City

Location : Clark Freeport, Angeles City, Pampanga province . Save on Google Maps .

Clark Travel Essentials

Dinosaurs Island Clark Admission Ticket

Zoocobia Admission Ticket in Clark

Clark Safari and Adventure Park Ticket

See more : Clark & Angeles City travel tips

Wright Park in Baguio, Benguet, Philippines

Location : Benguet province . Save on Google Maps .

Baguio Travel Essentials

Manila-Luzon Shuttle – Tagaytay, Baguio, Laguna, La Union & more

Baguio Day Tour from Manila

The Manor at Camp John Hay (Overnight Stay) with Breakfast

See more : Baguio travel tips

San Juan, La Union

Location : La Union province, Ilocos region . Save on Google Maps .

San Juan Travel Essentials

Philippines Unlimited Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

Philippines 4G Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

See more : San Juan, La Union travel tips

Puerto Galera

Location : Oriental Mindoro province . Save on Google Maps .

Puerto Galera Travel Essentials

Puerto Galera-Manila Si-Kat FerryBus Tickets (Round Trip and One Way)

Surfers at Sabang Beach, in Baler, Aurora, Philippines

Location : Aurora province . Save on Google Maps .

Baler Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

See more : Baler travel tips

Anawangin & Nagsasa Cove, Zambales

Location : San Antonio, Zambales province . Save on Google Maps .

Hulugan Falls & Laguna Province

Hulugan Falls in Luisiana, Laguna, Philippines

Location : Luisiana, Laguna . Save on Google Maps .

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Manila that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Manila

Manila tourist spots, things to do in Manila, where to go in Manila & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Manila

Click below & search recommended Manila hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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September 30, 2021 at 11:33 pm

I really like your article, especially the part about the Intramuros because I really want to explore that place:)

9 Day Tour Destinations Near Manila the Philippine Capital

9. The Seven Lakes of San Pablo in Laguna

8. minalungao national park in nueva ecija, 7. masungi georeserve in baras, rizal, 6. mount sawi, nueva ecija + dingalan view hill, aurora, 5. artists village and the petroglyphs in angono, rizal.

• 4. Mount Daraitan and Tinipak River in Tanay, Rizal​
• 3. Corregidor Island​
• 2. Taal Town / Mount Gulugud Baboy / Anilao Beach in Batangas​

1. Tagaytay City

Discover day trips from Manila for a quick weekend getaway. Metro Manila, the biggest metropolitan area in the Philippines, has a lot of tourist spots, but more await you when you travel outside the urban centers. You don’t even have to travel too far, as some of these destinations can be reached in a little over an hour or even less.

Day trips or weekend tours from bustling cities like Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is as easy as riding a bus or a private car for a couple of hours. The capital is surrounded by many provinces dotted with scenic countryside, rolling mountains, and other tourist spots near Manila . Of course, there are also many  beach resorts near Manila . You can never run out of day trip destinations to choose from for your rent a car in Manila adventures.

• Book day trips from Manila
• See recommended resorts for a weekend getaway near Manila
• Check our family vacation packages in the Philippines

If you want to travel outside the city or take a breather from your busy urban life, here are some ideas for day trips from Manila aside from the usual Manila tours  that you can add to your plans for the weekend.

See our popular Day Trips from Manila

2-day trip to buscalan village, home of legendary tattoo artist apo whang-od, tagaytay palace in the sky taal view & farms shared day tour with lunch & transfers from manila, private manila airport transfer to cities of makati, pasay, bgc taguig, or alabang.

The seven crater lakes of San Pablo City in Laguna namely Lake Bunot, Lake Calibato, Lake Palakpakin, Lake Muhikap, Lake Sampaloc and the twin lakes of Yambo and Pandin, can all be visited in a day.

• Check our list of Laguna tours
• See other destinations for a road trip near Manila
• Book an Enchanted Kingdom ride all you can day pass
• Check out our other Philippine theme park ride-all-day passes

While you cannot swim in all seven lakes, Lake Pandin is where you can spend the most time in. Visitors here can take a 2-3 hour raft tour inclusive of lunch.

From the raft, you can jump into the lake with the required life vest and enjoy a refreshing swim. Across the edge of Lake Pandin, you can even hike a short trail across the adjacent Lake Yambo.

This day trip can be done in the afternoon and you will still have extra time to make a side trip to the town of Liliw, also in Laguna. Famous for its slippers and shoe products, this is the place to shop for footwear of all colors and a wide variety of fascinating local designs made of indigenous materials.

Try out some  Laguna activities  after your visit to the seven lakes. Make sure to stop by the town’s famous local restaurant called Arabella, for some tasteful fusion of local and foreign cuisine. Before reaching Liliw, you can also stop by the town of Nagcarlan to visit the roadside underground cemetery.

• Check out our lists of the best farm resorts near Manila  and the best affordable resorts near Manila
• See the top tourist destinations in the Philippines

See our popular Laguna Tours and Activities

This is the reason why Minalungao has become a popular destination for day trip travelers coming from Metro Manila and nearby provinces. A relaxing dip in the river, which is often a highlight of river tours, instantly cures a tired body.

To the more adventurous souls, cliff diving from one of the massive protruding boulders makes the experience more memorable. Afterward, bond with family or friends over a picnic by the built-in wooden cottages nearby to cap a wonderful day away from the big city.

The Masungi Georeserve is the Philippines’ first-ever nature conservation project located in the Sierra Madre mountain range in the municipality of Baras, Rizal.

• Check our article on the top mountain resorts near Manila

Spread over some of the most spectacular limestone karst peak formations, visitors can walk over trail pathways made of durable materials to protect the karst formations from human movements.

Such features include the “Sapot” (Spiderweb), a platform where visitors usually drop their jaws at the striking 360-degree scenery and the hammock-like “Duyan”. Masungi Georeserve succeeds in showing to visitors the grandness and beauty of nature up close, while at the same time advocating for its conservation and proper care.

• Enjoy ATV adventures in Rizal
• See Treasure Mountain in Tanay, Rizal rates
• Try hiking and camping in Rizal

Visitors are limited per day and each small group of hikers is accompanied by a well-trained and knowledgeable park ranger who will lecture the guests about the need for more sustainable tourism practices in the country.

See our popular Rizal Tours and Activities

Rizal mt. daraitan & tinipak river minor day hike with transfers from manila | beginner-friendly, mt. daraitan rizal day hike with climb certificate, fees & transfers from manila, mt. kulis rizal day hike with climb certificate, entrance fees & transfers from manila.

Not to be mistaken as a mountain exclusively for broken-hearted people, Mount Sawi offers a relaxed trail perfect for a day hike. Sawi, a word often used to describe one who had gone through a failed relationship, is the opposite of what this mountain offers to hikers.

Reaching the top will make you feel complete and in love with Mother Nature, thanks to the striking 360-degree view of the scenic farmlands below.

• Check out other tourist spots in Luzon
• See your options for glamping resorts near Manila

A good 3 to 4 hours of hiking gives you more than enough time to partner this mountain with another location, for a maximum fun day trip. Dingalan Port is located an hour away and from here you can board a boat to the “white beach” where you can enjoy an afternoon swim. A shorter hike will take you to the lighthouse which sits atop a grassy hill.

A few meters away is the Dingalan view that dishes a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean and the massive rocks formation below best experienced when booking Dingalan Aurora tours . Most travelers compare the scenery in Dingalan to those in Batanes and Palaui Island in Cagayan Valley.

See our popular Aurora Tours and Activities

Learning about art and history for a day isn’t a bad idea. In fact, it makes up for a truly wonderful plan. Angono’s art culture is very much on display at its famed artist village where you can find the works of Angono natives and National Artists Carlos “Botong” Francisco and Lucio San Pedro.

Other artists whose works are present in the village include Jose “Pitok” Blanco, Nemi Miranda, PerdigonVocalan and many more up and coming local artists.

The places you must visit here are Carlos “Botong” Francisco Museum, Balaw-Balaw Restaurant and Art Gallery, Nemiranda Art House and Museum and the many street arts and murals on display.

Afterward, you can visit the Angono Petroglyphs where you can find some of the oldest artworks in the country. Here, you can see ancient rock graffiti believed to date back to the late Neolithic period (around 2,000 B.C.), according to expert analysis of the stone tools excavated inside the cave.

In an ironic twist, these old carvings were first discovered by Carlos “Botong” Francisco himself during a Boy Scout hiking trip in the area in 1965.

4. Mount Daraitan and Tinipak River in Tanay, Rizal​

The municipality of Tanay in the province of Rizal is gifted with an abundance of nature where rising mountains can be hiked – thanks to its high elevated jump-off areas, where one can witness a sea of clouds during the early morning. One popular day trip destination here is Mount Daraitan.

• Check our article on the best private resorts near Manila

Part of the Sierra Madre mountain range, it shares a border with Tanay, Rizal and General Nakar, Quezon, Mount Daraitan rises 739 meters above sea level and is good for a 3-4 hour hike to the top. It features a lush forested trail highlighted by stunning karst formations.​ 

What makes Daraitan an even better day trip destination is the presence of the clear freshwaters of Tinipak River which streams at the foot of the mountain.

After a successful summit of Daraitan, one can enjoy a refreshing dip at the river which is in itself, is already a spectacular location because of its surrounding magnificent boulder formations.

3. Corregidor Island ​

Visiting the place where many members of our country’s greatest generation fought bravely and died heroically should be a must for every Filipino. Corregidor Island used to be easily accessible from Metro Manila, with only a couple of hours away by Sun Cruise ferry from Manila Bay. However, the cruise operations closed during the pandemic so the only way to get to Corregidor Island is via Bataan . You can book Corregidor Island tours for a hassle-free getaway. 

Also known as “The Rock”, the island is well managed to cater to travelers wanting to experience Corregidor excursions to the fullest. Upon arriving, there is already a tram complete with a tour guide waiting for you.

Expect to be shown the important places where Filipino and American forces fought side by side. These include the ruins of the old US bases and the Malinta Tunnel where the many survivors took refuge from the constant bombing during World War II.

See our popular Corregidor Island Tours and Activities

2. taal town / mount gulugud baboy / anilao beach in batangas ​.

Batangas is a big province but it has municipalities that are only a three-hour drive away from Metro Manila. From the various  Batangas activities  in the area, the one place you shouldn’t miss out is Taal Town.

• Book a The Farm at San Benito day tour
• Check out our collection of day tours in Batangas

This is where numerous centuries-old heritage houses and the architecturally impressive Taal Basilica are located. A day trip here will give you a glimpse of our country’s storied heritage and make you learn more fascinating historical tidbits about the Basilica. 

Aside from enjoying a historical tour, you can also indulge in a gastronomic quest as nearby eateries serve the famous Batangas Lomi. Taal Town is also known for the many stores that make and sell Filipiniana gowns.

If you are up for some hiking and beach bumming, then scaling the top of Mount Gulugud Baboy in Mabini, Batangas will gift you a marvelous view of Balayan Bay and the nearby island of Sombrero. Both the three-hour drive from Metro Manila and the two-hour hike to the top of the mountain will take you half a day.​

If you move fast, you can even complete a loop composed of Mt. Gulugod Baboy, Anilao and Masasa Beach with side trips to Sepoc and Sombrero Islands.

See our popular Batangas Tours and Activities

Private taal lake tour with boat ride near volcano, guide & entrance fees, batangas canyon cove day pass with beach & main pool access, the farm at san benito batangas 1-day wellness package with lunch + treatment + activities.

This place should rank up in the all-time list of favorite quick day trips from  Manila . A two to three-hour drive from the Metro will take you to the highlands of Tagaytay , where roadside beaneries and appetizing specialty restaurants provide a wonderful place to wine, dine and relax.     

Thanks to its cool climate and the stunning view of the Taal Volcano and Lake,  Tagaytay activities  are just what one needs to recharge.

You can start your day tour in Tagaytay in the morning by having brunch at one of the many restaurants such as Bag of Beans, Antonio’s Breakfast, Mushroom Burger, just to name a few, or the iconic stalls of that serve hot bulalo (beef marrow stew) located in Mahogany Market. 

• Secure your Tagaytay hotel booking
• See our Tagaytay staycation promos
• Book a Tagaytay Taal Lake boat ride
• Read our article on the best bed and breakfast near Manila

Afterward, you can pay a visit to the hilltop chapel of Calaruega to relish in its solemn and romantic setting. To date, Calaruega remains as one of the most popular church of choice for couples tying the knot.   

See our popular Tagaytay Tours and Activities

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10 Weekend Getaways Near Metro Manila [Where To Travel from Manila?]

Been wanting to explore  Metro Manila  and its surroundings but don’t know where to start? Worried that you’ll end up on an organized tour from one tourist trap to the next? Well, fret not because you can start just a few hours outside of the corporate jungle! There are many travel destinations near Metro Manila which only require a day or two of your time, most likely your weekends (or long weekends!). So it’s time to get out of your comfort zone and live a little!

• Our Itinerary and Travel Guide to Intramuros and Binondo in Manila, Philippines
• Travel Guide to Popular Cities in the Philippines – 25 Day Trips That You Can Do in the Philippines
• List of the Best Budget Hotels and Beach Resort in Batangas, Philippines
• 15 Incredible Places You’ll Find in the Province of Laguna, Philippines
• Treat Yourself to Relaxation Heaven at I’m Onsen Spa in Makati

Whether you’re into historic buildings, beaches, adventure sports or mountains and volcanoes, this list of 10 Weekend Getaways near Metro Manila is sure to show you a side to the city that you didn’t know existed!

EXTRA TIP:  If  you’re a foreigner and planning to visit the Philippines, you’ll be asked for a full travel itinerary and a verifiable return flight ticket at the Immigration, if you don’t know when you will be leaving the country, you can just get a refundable flight itinerary from Rent a Flight Ticket.

1. Revisit Old Manila – Historic Metro Manila

Manila may get its fair share of negative press, but that wasn’t always the case, especially in its heyday. Why not start off your morning at Kilometer 0?  Rizal Park , more commonly known as Luneta, is considered to be the largest urban park in Asia. Despite being photobombed by the Torre de Manila, it is still a must-see for locals and foreigners alike.   Devote a few hours to  Intramuros , the Walled City, either on foot, by calesa (horse-drawn carriage), or by joining a Bamboo bike tour. These bikes are unique to Asia and beautifully handmade! If you’re interested in a walking tour, there are a handful of people and groups who offer informative and entertaining tours of Intramuros and Old Manila. \

Indulge your inner foodie in Binondo , the oldest Chinatown in the world. Sample delicacies from Dong Bei, Sincerity Café, Masuki Mami, Ying Ying Tea House, and LGA Fastfood Estero among many others. Don’t be afraid to try the many hole-in-the-wall restaurants!   To burn off that big lunch, visit  Binondo Church ,  Cruz Church ,  Quiapo Church,  and even  San Sebastian Church  (the only all-steel church in Asia) by walking around the area. Cap off the day by visiting the  National Museum  (free on Sundays!) to see the Spoliarium and other notable artworks up close.

If you visit just a few of the historic destinations in Metro Manila, then you’ll learn a lot about the history and cultural beginnings of the city. You can also add Manila Bay sunset cruise, Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Suggested Tour: The Big Binondo Food Wok

2. Roam around Rizal

For Antipolo, one can’t go wrong by starting the day at Antipolo Cathedral (Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage) before proceeding to the famous holy week pilgrimage site, Mystical Cave , which boasts stalactite and stalagmite formations that resemble religious figures.   One need not be a modern and contemporary art connoisseur to enjoy Pinto Art Museum, as the entire space is surely a feast for the eyes. Inside you will find a guided tour schedule as well as Bizu café (although if you’re on a budget, better eat elsewhere). It’s the best arts and culture destination in Metro Manila.

Be pampered with a view of Laguna de Bay and Manila’s skyline at Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens and Spa , Antipolo’s nature retreat. Loreland Farm Resort seems to really be the “place to be” with its wide array of offerings: accommodations, swimming pool, team building activities, and spa, all within a lovely green space.

Located inside a private school, PACEM Eco Park aims to raise awareness for the care of the environment and features a butterfly garden, wildlife sanctuary and aviary, herbal garden, organic farm, and greenhouse, as well as a mini-forest.   Roasted cashew nuts are aplenty around Antipolo, and you even have additional variants to choose from – sweet, spicy, adobo. Be sure to eat at one of the restaurants along Sumulong Highway while enjoying the Manila cityscape.

You can also go further to Tanay to take a dip in the cold and refreshing waters of the 14-meter high Daranak Falls . Trekking in Daranak and spelunking in the nearby Calinawan Cave is also recommended for adventure destinations near Metro Manila.   Adventurers can get their fix of adrenaline from trekking, spelunking, swimming, and camping at Daraitan and Tinipak River (Quezon). Check out more Extreme Activities in the Philippines here .

Suggested Tour: ATV Adventure in Antipolo Rizal

3. Antique Metro Manila – Viva Bataan!

For a military history destination near Metro Manila, visit Samat and go on up Dambana ng Kagitingan , one of the final strongholds of the Filipino and American soldiers before surrendering to the Japanese during World War II. On a clear day, enjoy a panoramic view of Bataan and Corregidor atop the shrine.   Fond of antique houses? You can avail of a day tour at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar where you can walk on cobblestone streets and go inside 50+ manually transported and renovated heritage houses. Overnight accommodation, spa, batis-inspired pool, bicycle, and calesa tours are also available.

Participate in the annual releasing of Pawikan hatchlings off to the sea together with other fun activities in this year’s Pawikan Festival 2015 (tentative November 29-30).   Lots of athletes and fitness enthusiasts go to Bataan to train in cycling because the varied terrain makes it one of the best training destinations near Metro Manila.

Suggested Tour: Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Heritage Walking Tour in Bataan

4. Scary Metro Manila – Conquering Corregidor!

This island fortress is known as “The Rock,” is a popular destination for those who only have the weekend to spare. Aside from being the last stand before the Japanese takeover during World War II, it was foremost a military paradise before becoming a seat of the Philippine Commonwealth and headquarters of the Allied Forces.   Although the most popular activity remains the historical tour, you can enjoy a host of other activities on the island such as hiking, kayaking, sunrise/sunset viewing, camping, bird watching, zipline, and night lateral visit of the tunnels.

You can also explore the island onboard an ATV or your own bike. If you’re up for dark tourism, stay overnight and go ghost-hunting with your peers at the Hospital, the site of the Jabidah massacre which took place almost five decades ago. A historical, outdoors, and horror destination near Metro Manila, all in one place – how awesome is that?!

Regular ferries and tours run from the ferry terminal in Pasay City, so if you feel like visiting the city in style, why not find yourself a  5-star hotel in Malate, Manila , where you can also visit the Cultural Center of the Philippines? The Cultural Center, an imposing, modernist, concrete structure, sits on 150 acres of land and includes the  Tanghalang Pambansa (National Theatre) and the Folk Arts Theater among other attractions.   Be sure not to miss the Light and Sound show at Malinta Tunnel.

5. Batangas, the Land of the Valiant

Batangas has long been a favorite of weekend warriors and holiday tourists, especially when it comes to beach destinations near Metro Manila. That is why more “unspoiled” beaches are gaining popularity during the past few years due to the proliferation of tourists in the more well-known areas of the province.

Burot Beach is a must-visit in Calatagan with its crystal clear waters, fine sand, and rock formations. One caveat though, is that this beach could be closed at any time, to be developed by one of the prime real estate developers in the country. Better visit soon!

Masasa Beach , located on the fish-shaped island of Maricaban, is within the municipality of Tingloy, Batangas. It is best visited together with Anilao , one of the best diving spots in the country, and Gulugod Baboy .   What was previously a famous luxury resort is now open to the public off the coast of Nasugbu.

Fortune Island is easily recognized because of the Grecian pillars and statues built atop the island. There’s also a museum commemorating the discovery of the MV San Diego Warship. Scuba diving and snorkeling are also popular activities on the island.   Make sure not to leave without sampling the province’s bulalo, lomi, tapa, and kapeng barako.

Suggested Tour: Diving Experience in Anilao

6. Livin La Vida Laguna – Lakes near Metro Manila

What’s more, to see in Laguna, you ask? It’s the best lakes destination near Metro Manila, that’s what! Well, there are the seven lakes of San Pablo City, the newly reopened Cavinti Underground River and Caves Complex, river rafting, tubing, and cliff diving in Magdalena (best from June to December), Taytay falls in Majayjay, wakeboarding in Calamba, Isdaan Floating Restaurant in Calauan, Buruwisan falls in Siniloan, as well as mud springs, Flatrocks and Peak 2 in Mt. Makiling, Los Banos.

There are also various cold and hot spring resorts available, as well as private pools for rent.   Specialty food products include kesong puti, buko pie, bibingka de macapuno, puto Binan, kinulob na itik, Mer-nel’s cake as well as espasol.

Suggested Tour: Mountain Lake Resort Day Access in Laguna

7. Bountiful Bulacan – Cave destination of Metro Manila

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by julius cesar (@itsme_juliuscesar) on Aug 23, 2020 at 2:42am PDT

Gear up for a weekend of eco-adventure at Biak na Bato National Park, aptly named because it is the place where Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo established the first Republic of the Philippines, the Biak-na-Bato Republic. The park, with its cave network and river system, is also a DENR-protected area due to its ecological importance.   Popular attractions include the Aguinaldo Cave, Bahay Paniki Cave, Madlum Cave and River, Tanggapan cave, Tilandong Falls, Hospital Cave, Imbakan Cave, Ambush Cave, Bukal Cave, Bayukbok Cave, and Mt. Manalmon.

Challenging rock formations, hanging bridges, spelunking, camping, river traverse, trekking, bird watching, swimming, and picnicking are what await the adrenaline junkie. The park is best accessed via San Miguel.   There is also an assortment of water parks with various theme attractions around the province that families can enjoy.   Bulacan is also famous for Pastillas de leche, Malolos ensaymada and inipit, sukang Paombong as well as crunchy chicharon. And it’s all only one hour away from Metro Manila!

8. Rediscovering Nueva Ecija – Nature near Metro Manila

Marvel at the towering limestone formations of Minalungao National Park in General Tinio, either by foot or by bamboo raft along Penaranda River. One can also fish, picnic, swim, camp, spelunk, and cliff dive in the park. After spending a few hours beside the river, challenge yourself to climb the 1,000 steps to the summit where a man-made cross is built overlooking the whole area.   If you would like to see more of Nueva Ecija, visit one of the largest reservoirs in Southeast Asia, Pantabangan Dam. Sport-fishing or game-fishing aficionados can get their fix in Pantabangan Lake, while others can hire a boat to tour around the lake. This is clearly your one-stop nature destination near Metro Manila.   You can also add: Gabaldon Falls and Eco Park, and Dupinga River.

9. Pampanga Adventure – Volcanoes and food near Metro Manila!

Aside from a day hike to Mt. Pinatubo’s crater, foodies will surely love going to the Culinary Capital of the Philippines. Just in Angeles alone, gastronomical delight awaits you in Historic Camalig Restaurant, Aling Lucing’s sisig, Binulo Restaurant, Didi’s Pizza, and 19 Copung Copung to name a few. It’s best to combine all the eating with some walking around Bayanihan Park, Clark Museum, Clark Memorial, and Founder’s residence.

Newbies and experienced wakeboarders alike will find exhilaration at Deca Wakeboard Park .   Try out the new outdoor fun facility at Porac and get your excitement rolling with the Giant Swing, Aerial Walk Challenge, Avatar One (first roller coaster zip line), Adventure Tower, Archery, and ATVs.

Check out the Zooc ride in Zoocobia, the first and only gravity car in the country, and be a kid for the day.   Only 2 hours from Manila, this is a destination near Metro Manila that has pretty much everything!

Suggested Tour: Mt. Pinatubo Hiking Day Tour from Manila

10. Sojourn in Quezon – Festival destination near Metro Manila

Come and celebrate one of the most famous and colorful festivals in the country on May 15th, Pahiyas!   Try spending a day in Dolores at Bangkong Kahoy, a retreat resort midway to the summit of Mt. Banahaw, the province’s sacred mountain.   Experience eating lunch with your feet partially underwater and a man-made waterfalls in front of you at Labasin Waterfalls Restaurant inside the popular plantation and resort, Villa Escudero.

Discover the “unspoiled” beaches of Cagbalete, Puting Buhangin, Borawan, and Dampalitan, and experience camping overnight by the beach.   A trip to Quezon wouldn’t be complete without Pancit Habhab, Chami, Pansit Balibag, Rodillas’ yema cake, and Longganisang Lucban.  Quezon is probably the most unique destination near Metro Manila!

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14 thoughts on “ 10 Weekend Getaways Near Metro Manila [Where To Travel from Manila?] ”

Wonderful article!! For more insider tips on the Philippines, 🙂

I will start tagging this in my planner ? for adventure ,to unwind … I’ve been in Manila for so long yet not familiar to these weekends getaway place.

Very variable information. Its time to Discover my beloved PHILIPPINE ISLANDS.

Thanks for posting this. Will visit these places soon.

Im looking forward to have a foodtrip in Pampanga next month. Been wanting to do this for a long time 🙂

There are really many beautiful places in the Philippines worth exploring. Me and my wife started talking about going to these place (one among them every time i go for vacation from my OFW job).

Awesome list! I’ve also been wanting to go to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar for the longest time. The place is so picturesque. 🙂

I will try visiting Bulacan and seenthe caves! I love this blog post. Thank you so much!

Ah, Binondo. How I’ve missed you; your traffic, your crowd, but most especially your food. I went to Fortune Island 2 years ago and I must say, it’s one trip I will never forget. Such beauty and appeal.

I need to visit these other places too. Especially Rizal. I love museums!

Happy 2016!

Great recommendations! ♡

I would definitely visit the Pinto Art museum next month together with my friends. I’ve never been into any art museum. Sana makapunta na ako this time

Thank you for this! I’m always for the lookout for quick weekend getaways from Manila. 😀 Minalungao National Park seems to be calling out to me!

These are great ideas! I wish i knew these when I was traveling to Manila every week. I wonder how long it takes to get out of the city’s horrendous traffic though. I once attempted to spend a weekend in batangas and got stuck for over two hours just trying to leave Makati 🙁

Very detailed article, thank you for the tips! Great for the weekend!

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40 Things To Do In Metro Manila For An Unforgettable Trip In The Philippines

Metro Manila attractions

Metro Manila is the Philippines’ metropolitan area with 1 municipality and 16 cities, including the capital city of Manila. But while it’s only a small speck on our country’s map, it has so much to offer, being a melting pot of cultures.

So if you don’t have time to visit the rest of the country, here are things to do in Metro Manila that’ll ensure an unforgettable vacation.

Table of Contents

– Attractions –

1. time-travel at the walled city of intramuros, 2. watch a dancing fountain at okada manila, 3. go on museum dates around rizal park, 4. go art gallery-hopping in makati, 5. ride a gondola at venice grand canal mall, 6. be mindblown at the mind museum, 7. explore different filipino cultures and food at food wanderer x lakbay museo, 8. take ig-worthy photos at the dessert museum, 9. meet fish friends and more at manila ocean park, 10. go on an art walk in bgc, 11. admire local and international contemporary art at the met museum manila, 12. learn about wine-making at destileria limtuaco museum, 13. admire escolta’s art deco buildings, – experiences –, 14. enjoy a cultural show at barbara’s heritage restaurant, 15. unleash your inner child at dreamplay, 16. take a dip in a luxurious, indoor beach at cove manila, 17. shop leather goods in marikina, 18. go bar-hopping at poblacion, makati, 19. bike or hike at the la mesa nature reserve, 20. find unique clothes and home decor at vintage stores, 21. shop new, old, and rare vinyl records, 22. join an art workshop at craft mnl, 23. go kart racing at driftito extreme, 24. get a haircut at a vintage-inspired barbershop, 25. sip wine while painting at sip & gogh, 26. jump to your heart’s content at the wiijump philippines, 27. play a game of basketball at the courtyard by nike, 28. shop for souvenirs at souvenir island, quiapo, – dining –, 29. explore local street eats at the ugbo night market, 30. taste different cuisines at the legazpi sunday market, 31. try different balut dishes in pateros, 32. go on a chinese-filipino food crawl in binondo, 33. dine with a spanish colonial vibe at las casas quezon city, 34. try jollibee in the motherland, 35. try manam’s filipino food with a twist, 36. get vegan filipino comfort food at cosmic, 37. buy fresh seafood and have it cooked in a restaurant at the dampa seaside market, 38. get mango- and ube-flavored delicacies, 39. have a fancy filipino tasting course at toyo eatery, 40. enjoy a luxurious, award-winning buffet at spiral, things t0 do in metro manila.

Intramuros in Manila is a historic walled city built around 1576 by Spanish colonizers. Over the years, it has retained several of its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, from mansions to fortresses.

Some of the most popular spots in the walled city are Fort Santiago and Baluarte de San Diego, remains of a fortress and a bastion. You can also learn about Philippine colonial history at several museums in the area such as Museo de Intramuros and Balay Tsinoy which tells of Chinese-Filipino history.

Tour the area on a kalesa or a horse-drawn carriage (from 350, ~USD 6.32 ) . Or rent a Bambike, a bike made with bamboo (from P100, ~USD 1.81 ) .

If you’re into spooky stuff, you can also join Intramuros After Dark, a nighttime walking tour where you’ll learn not only the history but also urban legends surrounding Old Metro Manila.

Admission fee: Entrance to Intramuros is free; admission to some of its attractions range from P75-P200 (~USD 1.35 ~USD 3.61 ) Address: Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: Intramuros is open 24 hours; attractions have different hours Contact: website

For a fun evening event, check out The Fountain at Okada Manila . It’s a dancing fountain that happens hourly every night starting at 6PM and lasts for about 5 minutes.

The Fountain spans 50 Olympic-size pools and shoots water higher than the hotel and casino.

Entry is free but you can opt to watch the show from the Fountain Lounge for P1,000 (~USD 18.07 ) per head and indulge in cocktails. If you arrive too early before the next show, you can shop luxury brands inside the hotel and casino.

You can catch free shuttle buses to and from Okada Manila at several locations in the metro including SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, and Binondo. Non-members can get a ride for free but they prioritize their members during boarding.

Admission fee: Free Address: New Seaside Drive, Entertainment City, Parañaque, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Thu 6pm-10pm | Fri-Sun 6pm-12pm Contact: (02) 8888 0777 | website

If you’re the type of traveler who loves to learn about the countries you visit, you can go on museum dates in Rizal Park . There are 3 museums that boast a Neoclassical facade but each contain different genres of history.

The National Museum of Natural History is where you’ll see an archive of the Philippines’ rich biodiversity in one place. Its displays include real Megalodon teeth originally found in different places of the country.

For a crash course on the prehistoric period, go to the National Museum of Anthropology . It contains artifacts from our ancestors’ time, including fossils of a butchered rhinoceros which suggests the presence of humans in the Philippines over 700,000 years ago.

If you’re into art, make sure to visit the National Museum of Fine Arts . It features colonial-era paintings and statues, Filipino modernist art, and a colorful series of murals by National Artist Carlos Francisco at the Old Senate Session Hall.

Admission fee: Free Address: Ermita, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: Tue-Sun 9am-6pm | Closed Mondays and holidays Contact: NM Natural History (02) 8298 1100 | NM Anthropology (02) 8298 1100 | NM Fine Arts (02) 8527 1215 |  website  

Go art gallery-hopping to further immerse yourself in the Filipino art scene and see the works of contemporary artists.

Makati City has areas where you’ll find many art galleries. La Fuerza Plaza has galleries such as Vinyl on Vinyl and Finale Art File , while Karrivin Plaza has Artinformal , The Drawing Room , and 1335Mabini .

Of course, there are even more art galleries within the city outside of these spaces. To enjoy drinks and art at the same time, go to Kondwi , an art gallery-slash-bar in Poblacion.

La Fuerza Plaza Address: 2241 Chino Roces Ave, Makati, Metro Manila Vinyl on Vinyl’s website Finale Art File’s website

Karrivin Plaza Address 2316 Chino Roces Ave, Makati, Metro Manila Artinformal’s website   The Drawing Room’s website 1335Mabini’s website

Kondwi Address: 6109 Albert, Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Thu 6pm-1am | Fri-Sat 6pm-3am (Closed on Sundays) Contact: 0945 557 2471 | Facebook

Venice Grand Canal Mall in Bonifacio Global City is an open-air, Venice-inspired mall with a man-made canal where you can ride gondolas (from P500/person, ~USD 9.04 ) and pretend as if you’re in Italy.

The mall’s boatmen even wear outfits similar to Venetian boatmen to fit the vibes.

The bridge and the canal railings are also IG-worthy spots. You can even have a romantic dinner at one of their restaurants with a view of the canal.

Address: McKinley Hill Drive, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9pm | Fri 11am-11pm | Sat-Sun 9am-11pm Contact: (02) 7624 1971 |  website  

If you’re coming to the metro with kids, take them to The Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City.

This science museum has more than 250 dioramas and interactive exhibits. It’s a fun way for kids to learn about everything from the atoms to the universe.

Tickets start at P190 (~USD 3.43 ) for teachers and public school students for a 3-hour time slot.

The Mind Museum also has a one-and-a-half-hour interactive exhibit, Playtales (from P150, ~USD 2.71 ) , where kids 2-6 years old can learn how to interact with other people and their environment.

Admission fee: From P190 (~USD3.43) Address: JY Campos Park, 3rd Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila Opening hours: Tue-Sun 9am-6pm  (Closed on Mondays) Contact: (02) 7796 0189 | website

Learn about various Filipino cultures and food in just 2 hours at the fun and interactive Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo .

It has colorful displays about Philippine ethnic groups, festivals, and attractions. There are even oversized figures of Filipino food such as adobo for your IG photos.

Besides displays, you also get to play Filipino games, cook Filipino delicacies, and try unique food – including worms and bugs.

Admission fee: From P699 (~USD 12.63 ) Address: 2nd Floor Filipino Village, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Parañaque, Metro Manila Opening hours: 12pm-9pm, Daily Contact: 0915 009 1032 |  website  

If you just want colorful photos for Instagram, visit The Dessert Museum .

The museum’s 8 dessert-themed rooms make great photo spots inspired by sweets including marshmallows, cake pops, and doughnuts. You’ll even get 4 dessert samples as a sweet treat.

Tickets to The Dessert Museum are priced from P699 (~USD 12.63 ) but birthday celebrants can get in for free during their birth month if they bring 1 paying friend.

Admission fee: From P699 (~USD 12.63 ) Address: G/F Conrad Hotel, Marina Way, Pasay City, Metro Manila Opening hours: 10am-10pm, Daily Contact: 0966 210 6010 |  website

Dive into the underwater realm at Manila Ocean Park , where you’ll encounter an impressive 277 species of marine creatures, all native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

For P699 (~USD 12.60 ) , enjoy access to 8 attractions, including an oceanarium with a tunnel offering a spectacular view of sea creatures swimming overhead.

Beyond the fishes, you can engage with more animal families through activities such as penguin feeding, sea lion show, and bird show.

You can even sleep close to fishes at the adjacent marine-themed resort, Hotel H20 (from P3,987/night, ~USD 71.90 ) where each room features a mesmerizing aquarium.

Admission fee: P699 (~USD 12.60 ) Address: Behind Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: 10am-6pm, Daily Contact: 0285677777 | website

BGC might seem like an imposing business district. But nestled amid its skyscrapers are  murals created by local artists.

These vibrant murals can be as large as buildings or as small as control boxes and fire hydrants. The imagery ranges from the dwarf-like mythical creature nuno sa punso to the Star Wars droid R2-D2, adding a whimsical touch to the area.

Some of the murals you shouldn’t miss are “Atin Ang Bawat Sandali” along Kalayaan Flyover , “Breathe Better” near St. Lukes Medical Center, and “Dalagang Pilipina” at the Maybank Corporate Centre.

To find out the locations of these murals and stay updated on events such as art fairs and concerts, visit Arts At BGC’s Instagram page .

Address: Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila

After a two-year hiatus, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila , also known as the MET , has found its new home in BGC. This museum showcases contemporary art from both local and international artists.

For a glimpse of what it has to offer, check out the museum’s website for its previous exhibits such as Time Tunnel , a reimagining of the histories of prominent Filipino artistic figures through painting. Another notable exhibit is Sounds of Blackness , featuring works by African artists using various mediums.

While entrance to the museum is free, you’ll need to book a reservation at least a day before your visit. As of writing, walk-ins are not allowed.

Address: MK Tan Centre, 30th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Tue-Fri 11am-5pm | Sat 10am-5pm (Closed on Sundays) Contact: 0917 160 9667 | website

Destileria Limtuaco Museum is a wine museum by the oldest distillery in the Philippines founded 1852.

Housed in this bahay na bato (stone house) in Intramuros is a small distillery that showcases the process and production of whiskeys. The space also features a collection of items and liquors dating back to the Spanish colonization.

Regular admission costs P100 (~USD 1.81 ) , and an additional P100 (~USD 1.81 ) allows you to sample their products. They offer a diverse range, including gin, vodka, rum, and whisky. Notably, they feature flavored blends and their interpretation of Vigan Basi, a sugarcane wine from the Northern Philippines.

If you find a favorite among their drinks, the museum also includes a gift shop where you can purchase bottles to enjoy at home.

Admission fee: P100 (~USD 1.81 ) Address: 482 San Juan de Letran Street, Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: Tue-Sun 9am-5pm (Closed on Mondays) Contact: (02) 485 9621| Facebook

Go on a scenic photowalk in Escolta , a once-thriving colonial-era business district peppered with beaux-arts and art deco buildings.

Among the iconic historical structures is the Don Roman Santos Building , situated between Binondo Chinatown and the religious hub Quiapo. Along the Pasig River, you’ll encounter more of these architectural gems, including the Regina, Juan Luna, and El Hogar Filipino buildings .

Escolta offers more than just sightseeing, too. Within this historic street, you’ll find museums, art hubs, and cozy coffee shops waiting to be explored.

Address: Escolta Street, Sta. Cruz, Manila, Metro Manila

One of the traditional dances performed at the restaurant. Video credit: John KIM via YouTube

To experience a Filipino fiesta in the metro, dine at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant in Intramuros.

They hold a Kultura Filipina dinner show every day at 6pm featuring different traditional dances in the Philippines. Here, you can even try your hand – or foot – at tinikling , a traditional Filipino dance that involves skipping on bamboo poles.

You can enjoy these performances as well as Filipino and Spanish fare in the restaurant’s Spanish colonial interiors. They even offer a dinner buffet (P1,500/person, ~USD 27.10 ) on Fridays to Sundays.

Address: Plaza San Luis Complex, Heneral Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: 9am-9pm, Daily Contact: (02) 8527 4083 |  website

Dreamplay is an indoor theme park where kids and kids-at-heart can meet DreamWorks animated characters and join activities inspired by movies such as Shrek and How To Train Your Dragon .

If you’re going here, make sure to put on activewear as there are rock climbing and rope courses inside. But y ou can also opt not to join and simply take photos for the ‘gram.

Tickets to Dreamplay cost P1,500 (~USD 27.10 ) for participants and P350 (~USD 6.32 ) for non-participants.

There’s also a DreamShop inside the attraction where you can buy Dreamworks movie-themed merchandise.

Admission fee: P1,500 (~USD 27.10 ) for participants; P350 (~USD 6.32 ) for non-participants Address: City of Dreams Manila, Aseana Avenue corner Roxas Boulevard, Entertainment City, Parañaque, Metro Manila Opening hours: Wed-Sun 11am-8pm (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) Contact: (02) 8808 0909 |  website  

No worries if you’re not able to visit our beautiful beaches. For a luxurious “beach” experience in the metro, go to Cove Manila . It’s an indoor beach inside a massive, airconditioned glass dome in Okada Manila.

You can stay at the open pool area and relax at one of their loungers or couches. If you’re going with a big group or just want some privacy, get a private cabana with a TV and its own washroom.

The pool is open on Saturdays and Sundays. Rates start at P1,400 (~USD 25.29 ) for 2 guests for a 3 1/2-hour timeslot, inclusive of snacks.

Pre-pandemic, the place turned into a nightclub in the evenings, which featured music by local and international DJs. However, Cove Manila has yet to relaunch its nightclub to the general public.

Admission fee: From P1,400 (~USD 25.29 ) for 2pax Address: Okada Manila, New Seaside Drive, Entertainment City, Parañaque, Metro Manila Opening hours: 8am-7.30pm Sat-Sun | Closed Mon-Fri Contact: 0917 516 0082 |  website

Buying handmade items is a great way to support local artisans in the country you’re visiting. If you’re looking for high-quality yet affordable handmade shoes in Metro Manila, go to the “Shoe Capital of the Philippines”, Marikina City .

The city has plenty of stores that sell handmade shoes and other leather goods. Valentino Shoes and Carmelletes are just 2 of the established shoe brands in the city. Marikina also hosts a shoe festival in November and a shoe bazaar during Christmastime.

But in case you don’t have time to scour Marikina, you can also find Marikina-made shoes online from local shoe brands such as andanté, Cora & Bear, and Renegade Folk.

Valentino Shoes Address: 121 Malaya Street, Malanday, Marikina City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm | Sunday 1o.30AM-5PM Contact: (02) 8942 0674 |  Facebook

Carmelletes Address: 101 E. dela Paz Street, Marikina City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays_ Contact: (02) 8645 2256 |  Facebook

Poblacion in Makati is peppered with so many bars and gastropubs that you’re sure to find a drinking spot that suits your vibe.

For a Filipino-themed gastropub, go to Alamat . It pays homage to Filipino heritage with wood and nipa (mangrove palm) interiors, Filipino food, and craft beer.

If you prefer a rooftop bar, Antidote has a splendid view of the city skyline. Meanwhile, for an LGBT+ safe space, art space, and dance club, check out Futur:st .

Make sure to visit Poblacion during the daytime too, as the neighborhood is also a hub for food and art.

Alamat Address: 2nd Floor, 5666 Don Pedro, Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: Sun, Tue-Thu 6pm-2am| Fri-Sat 6pm-4am (Closed on Mondays) Contact: 0917 306 2024 |  Facebook

Antidote Address: I’M Hotel, 7862 Makati Avenue corner Kalayaan Avenue, Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: Sun-Thu 5pm-2am | Fri-Sat 6pm-3am Contact: (02) 7755 7888 |   Facebook

Futur:st Address: 5062 Guerrero Street, Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: Wed-Sat 7pm-2am (Closed Sundays to Tuesdays) Contact: 0917 528 1003 |  website

Metro Manila can seem like a complete concrete jungle. But if you’re an avid hiker who wants to experience nature in the metro, you can visit La Mesa Nature Reserve in Quezon City.

Since it’s a protected area, nature here is largely untouched. It’s mainly a destination for hikers and bikers, with trails ranging from 3km to 10km.

La Mesa Nature Reserve also offers a peaceful view of the reservoir. Plus, it’s a great place for bird-watching.

Entrance fee starts at P1,000 (~USD 18.07 ) for up to 5 people and P200 (~USD 3.61 ) for every additional person. The fee comes with a trail guide.

Admission fee: P1,000 (~USD 18.07 ) for up to 5 people Address: Quirino Highway, Novaliches, Quezon City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Wed-Mon 6am-3pm (Closed on Tuesdays) Contact: (02) 3415 2227 |  Facebook

If you’re an avid thrifter, you might want to try your luck finding unique pieces in the Philippines.

For casual and streetwear, including Harley Davidson tees and racing jackets, It’s Vintage in Makati is the ideal thrifting spot. Meanwhile, for feminine pieces, go to Glorious Dias in Escolta, Manila.

But if you want to experience how locals thrift, Makati Cinema Square is a good place to go. It has many stalls that sell affordable vintage clothes, books, home decor, and kitchenware.

It’s Vintage Address: 195 Salcedo Street, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: 11.30am-7pm, Daily Contact:   Facebook

Glorious Dias Address: Hub Make Lab, First United Building, Escolta Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Thu 10am-6pm | Fri-Sun 10am-7pm Contact:   website

Makati Cinema Square Address: 2130 Chino Roces Avenue, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily Contact: (02) 8811 1204

Vinyl collectors might also find the rare vinyl record they’ve been looking for in the PH. You’ll find a number of shops that sell new, old, limited-edition, and rare records across Metro Manila .

For an affordable place to get records, check out Vinyl Dump in Quezon City. They sell records from the 60s to the 90s starting at P300 (~USD 5.42 ) each.

To shop vinyl records and dine at the same time , check out Treskul Records & Cafe or Satchmi – both of which are in Mandaluyong.

Vinyl Dump Address: Store #23, General Romulo Street, Cubao Expo, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City, Metro Manila Opening hours: 10am-7pm, Daily Contact: 0926 755 2755  |  Facebook

Treskul Records & Cafe Address: CIFRA Building, 641 Bonifacio Avenue, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Thu 2pm-10pm| Fri-Sat 2pm-2am| Sun 2pm-8pm Contact: 0949 542 1213 |  Facebook

Satchmi Address: 4th Floor, SM Megamall Fashion Hall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-10pm| Sat-Sun 10am-10pm Contact: 0977 061 4613  |  website  

You might want to pick up a hobby or two if you’re staying in Metro Manila for a while. To find different workshops that may interest you, check out Craft MNL .

Craft MNL holds classes on particular days that let you explore a new creative hobby, including brush calligraphy, embroidery, soap-making, and screen printing. They even have cooking classes such as pickling for adults and pasta cooking for kids.

If you’re not available on any of their class dates, you can also check out other art studios in Metro Manila such as Tahanan Pottery and Wood Academy .

Craft MNL Address: Unit 302, Pamana-Languages Building, 926 Arnaiz Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: Tue-Sat 1pm-8pm (Closed on Sundays and Mondays) Contact: 0917 124 4382 |  website

Tahanan Pottery Address: 27 Scout Tobias corner Scout Lozano, Quezon City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Fri-Wed 9am-6pm (Closed on Thursdays) Contact: 0917 127 7207 |   website

Wood Academy Address: 772 Aurora Boulevard corner Betty Go-Belmonte Street, Quezon City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Tue, Thu-Sat 9am-7pm (Closed on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays) Contact: 0965 409 3123 |   website

For an exciting group activity, challenge your friends to a race at Driftito Extreme .

Here, you can choose to ride drift karts, mini-ATVs, or mini dirt bikes (from P180, ~USD 3.25 ) . You don’t even have to be an experienced driver to ride a drift kart as they’re easier to drive than regular go-karts.

Driftito has several branches across the metro so you can choose one that’s most convenient. Most of their locations are outdoors, but you can also go-kart in a fun, neon indoor space at SM Southmall.

Admission fee: From P180(~USD 3.25 ) Contact: 0927 945 4438 |  Facebook

For a list of branches, click here .

There are plenty of good quality barbershops in Metro Manila offering haircuts for as low as P50 (~USD 0.90 ) . But if you want to get your hair done at a shop with a different vibe, go to a vintage-inspired barbershop .

Burnside Barber in Quezon City is a barbershop that welcomes you with a cup of coffee. A haircut (from P500, ~USD 9.04 )  includes a hot towel massage and styling with a pomade. To help you keep your hair healthy, they also sell hair care products including dandruff and hair loss treatments.

But for a more casual vibe and a more wallet-friendly haircut, go to Folk Barbershop in Escolta, Manila. It’s another old-school-themed barbershop that offers haircuts starting at P300 (~USD 5.42 ).

Burnside Barber Address: 50B Katipunan Ave, Quezon City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-8pm| Sat-Sun 10am-7pm Contact: 0977 836 7237 |  Facebook

Folk Barbershop Address: Hub Make Lab, First United Building, Escolta Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Sat 11am-8pm| Sundays 10am-7pm Contact: 0906 224 5496 |   Facebook  

Unwind with your friends and check out Sip & Gogh where you can enjoy wine as you paint.

They provide art materials, including a canvas, brushes, and paint as well as an apron to protect your clothes. They even offer a complimentary drink of your choice, including wine.

You don’t have to be an experienced painter to join. You can find an image to paint at the art studio or choose a photo of your own. Their staff will help you mix the paints if you need them to.

For P1,000 (~USD 18.08 ) , you can use their art materials, get a drink, and have a 2-hour painting session. Sip and Gogh has several branches across the metro.

Admission fee: P1,000 (~USD 18.08 ) Contact: website

The biggest trampoline park in the country, WiiJump Philippines , is a place that’ll surely bring out the child in you.

Besides a vast free zone, it has different areas such as the V Trampoline and the Island Zone for adventurous jumpers. You can also play dodgeball or shoot hoops while on a trampoline.

Non-trampoline activities include a sticky wall and a falling net. Of course, there’s a foam pit to launch yourself into for the laughs.

Admission to WiiJump starts at P499 (~USD 9.02 ) for one hour and an additional P399 (~USD 7.22 ) for every succeeding hour.

https://www.facebook.com/thesmartlocalph/videos/1324842778032003

Admission fee: From P499 (~USD9.02) Address: 2nd Floor Expansion Wing, Festival Supermall, Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily Contact: 0969 327 7020 |  website

It’s no secret that Filipinos love basketball. So if you want to play a game during your stay in the metro, head to The Courtyard by Nike in BGC.

This outdoor space boasts 2 full-sized courts and a half-court training area. But more than just a place to play basketball, it’s also adorned with art by local artist Kiefer Indiongco.

What’s more, the space is open for public use year-round. You only need to download the Nike app and register as a member of the Nike community to reserve the court for a game with your friends.

Beyond these, Nike also provides free pickup games and basketball camps led by their coaches. This includes women-only programs aimed at inspiring young women to actively engage in the sport.

Address: 25th Street corner 7th Avenue, Taguig City, Metro Manila

You’ll find souvenir shops at almost every attraction in the Philippines. But if you want to have lots of options at a wallet-friendly price, go to souvenir shops in Quiapo, Manila such as Souvenir Island .

They have everything from fridge magnets and keychains, to shirts and bags, and even home decor.

They also sell Filipino food items such as gourmet tinapa (smoked fish in oil) and dried mangoes that are popular with both locals and tourists.

Address: 135 Carlos Palanca Street, Quiapo, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm (Closed on Sundays) Contact: (02) 8735 4319 |   Facebook

If you want to try authentic Filipino street food, go to the Ugbo Night Market in Tondo, Manila.

It’s where you’ll find wallet-friendly street food such as Filipino barbecue which includes pork meat, pork ears, chicken intestines, chicken feet, and more. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, get tumbong soup made with pork bung.

You’ll also find foreign snacks such as milk tea, takoyaki, and shawarma whose flavors have been adapted to the Filipino palate.

So you can best enjoy your street food finds, there are seats in front of most stalls.

Address: Ugbo Street, Velasquez, Tondo, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: 5pm-12am, Daily

For a more upscale street market, check out the Legazpi Sunday Market amid the Makati Central Business District.

It has many stalls selling international cuisine including Thai, Indian, Turkish, and Moroccan. Of course, there’s also Filipino food such as lechon (roast pig), bibingka (rice cake), and Ilocos empanada .

You’ll even find fusion dishes such as the sinigang burrito, which incorporates the sour Filipino soup’s ingredients into the Mexican wrap.

Going early to the Legazpi Sunday Market is advised as food often gets sold out by 10am and many stalls close before noon.

Besides ready-to-eat food, there are also stalls at the market that sell fresh produce, sustainable products, and local crafts.

Address: Corinthian Carpark, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: Sun 7.30am-2pm (Closed on Mondays to Saturdays) Contact: 0 918 965 7825 |  Facebook  

Adventurous foodies shouldn’t miss out on eating balut (fertilized duck egg) in the Philippines. There’s nowhere better to try it than in Pateros , dubbed the Balut Capital of the Philippines for its many duck farms that produce the delicacy.

Balut is sold on the streets in the Philippines. Locals usually enjoy this boiled and with salt and spiced vinegar sauce.

But there are also a few restaurants that cook balut in different recipes. Dos Hermanas   Food Express in Pateros serves adobong balut (balut in a soy sauce-based stew), sweet and sour balut , and sizzling balut (P995 per dish, ~USD 17.94 ) .

While you’re in Pateros, you should also try penoy (boiled unfertilized duck eggs) and salted duck eggs.

Dos Hermanas Food Express Address: 29 B. Morcilla Street, Pateros, Metro Manila Opening hours: Wed-Mon 11am-7pm (Closed on Tuesdays) Contact: 0931 066 6690 |  Facebook

The oldest Chinatown in the world, Binondo, Manila is home to many established Chinese-Filipino restaurants and snack spots. It makes for the best place for a food crawl when you’re in the metro as food spots are in the same area.

Go to Lan Zhou La Mien for hand-pulled noodles (from P280, ~USD 5.05 ) and Sincerity Cafe & Restaurant for oriental-style fried chicken (from P215, ~USD 3.88 ) .

If you’re craving xiao long bao (soup dumplings), go to Dong Bei Dumpling  which also serves kuchay (chive) dumplings and other dim sum (from P200, ~USD 3.61 ) .

For a quick snack, go to New Po Heng Lumpia House for fresh lumpia (spring roll) (P95, ~USD 1.71 ) or Shanghai Fried Siopao for fried siopao (steamed bun) (P35, ~USD 0.63 ) . You can also buy mooncakes, hopia (filled, flaky pastry), tikoy (sticky rice cake), and Chinese deli items in the area.

Lan Zhou La Mien Address: Reina Regente Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily Contact: 0917 826 6888 |  Facebook

Sincerity Cafe & Restaurant Address: 519 Quintin Paredes Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: 9am-7pm, Daily Contact: (02) 8241 9990  |  Facebook

Dong Bei Dumpling Address: 642 Yuchengco corner V. Tytana Street, Binondo, Manila, Mero Manila Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8.30am-7pm | Sun 8.30am-6pm Contact: (02) 8903 9172 |   Facebook

New Po Heng Lumpia House Address: 621 Carvajal Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-7pm | Sun 8.30am-6pm Contact: (02) 7753 1891 |  Facebook

Shanghai Fried Siopao Address: 828 Ongpin Street corner Bahama Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila Opening hours: 7am-6pm, Daily Contact: (02) 8734 0886 |  Facebook

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Quezon City is a small compound of Spanish Colonial era structures that houses a couple of dining spots. It’s a  bite-sized version of the Spanish-Filipino-style resort Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan.

At Kusina ni Nanay Maria , you can get well-loved Filipino fare including a pre-colonial adobo (soy-based stew) pork belly (P800, ~USD 14.43 ) recipe.

Meanwhile, La Bella serves Italian cuisine, including a variety of pizzas, calzones, and paninis. Occasionally, they also offer course meals, perfect for extra special occasions.

Las Casas Quezon City also holds events such as Friday disco and offers tour-and-dine packages so check out their socials for their offerings of the month.

Address: 134 Roosevelt Avenue, San Francisco Del Monte, Quezon City, Metro Manila Opening hours: 11am-9pm, Daily Contact: 0917 136 6796 |  website

The Philippines-founded fast food chain now have stores in various countries. But those who’ve tried it in the Philippines will tell you that Jollibee in the motherland just hits different. And there are products available here that you can’t find abroad and vice-versa.

Have their famous Chickenjoy (starts at P82, ~USD 1.48 ) with rice as it was intended to be enjoyed.

Other menu items you should try are the Peach Mango Pie (from P48, ~USD 0.87 ) and Palabok (from P138, ~USD 2.49 ) , which is rice noodles with pork and shrimp-flavored sauce.

Jollibee’s website

Manam is a chain restaurant in the metro that’s popular for Filipino food with twists.

For Filipino dishes you can’t find anywhere else, try their Crispy Pancit Palabok (from P250, ~USD 4.51 ) which has fried rice noodles, and Sinigang na Beef Short Rib and Watermelon (from 300, ~USD 5.41 ) .

Of course, you can still get classic Filipino recipes such as chicken inasal (roasted chicken) (from 175, ~USD 3.16 ) and pork binagoongan (pork stewed in shrimp paste) (P260, ~USD 4.69 ) .

They offer various portions of their dishes so you can try as many of these as you can whether you’re dining alone or in a big group.

Do note that queues going into their restaurants can be quite long, so be sure to go there earlier than the time you wish to dine.

Manam’s website  

If you’re vegan or coming to the Philippines with a vegan friend, check out Cosmic , a full-fledged vegan restaurant serving plant-based versions of well-loved Filipino food.

The restaurant’s popular dishes include kare-kare (peanut stew)and sisig (stir-fry dish) which both have mock pork bagnet (deep fried, crispy mock pork) and are priced at P295 (~USD 5.32 ) .

To top off your meal, they also serve drinks and desserts including vegan chocolate cake and brownies.

Poblacion, Makati branch Address: G/F 4980, P. Guanzon Street, Poblacion, Makati City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Wed-Mon 11am-10pm (Closed on Tuesdays) Contact: 0915 365 8758

Kapitolyo, Pasig branch Address: 7 San Rafael Street, Pasig City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am-3pm, 4.30pm-8pm (Closed on Mondays) Contact: 0968 693 1344

Cosmic’s  Facebook

Get the Filipino dampa or wet market experience and go to the Dampa Seaside Market in Pasay.

Here, you get to buy fresh seafood such as fish, shrimp, and shellfish including lobsters. Some shellfish are even alive inside aquariums in the market.

Then, go to one of the restaurants in the area for paluto or cooking service. These offer different flavors and methods of cooking for your seafood buys. This way, you can get anything from baked scallops to chili crabs.

Some of the most recommended restos in the area for paluto are Huey Ying Restaurant , Aling Tonya’s Seafood Palutuan , and Hong Kong Master Cook .

Dampa Seaside Market Address: Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay 76, Pasay City, Metro Manila Opening hours: 10am-10.30pm, Daily

Huey Ying Restaurant Address: Unit 6, Lot 5-A , Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Pasay City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10.30am-11pm | Sun 10.30am-9pm Contact: (02) 8556 4541 |  Facebook

Aling Tonya’s Seafood Palutuan Address: Building 2, L0t 5, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay 76, Pasay City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm | Thu 9am-12am | Sun 9am-9pm Contact: (02) 8889 2504 |   Facebook

Hong Kong Master Cook Address: L0t 5, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay 76, Pasay City, Metro Manila Opening hours: 11am-10pm, Daily Contact: 0917 304 6284 |  Facebook

Mango and ube (purple yam) are two flavors which the Philippines is known for, so make sure to try these when you’re in the Philippines. But beyond fresh mangos and ube jam, there are other ways to enjoy these flavors.

If you can’t get enough of ube , get Conti’s Bakeshop & Restaurant ‘s Ube Custard Cake (from P345, ~USD 6.23 ) . For a sweet treat you can finish on your own, grab an Ube Langka cookie (P110 each, ~USD 1.99 ) from Scout’s Honor .

To beat the metro heat and enjoy our sweet mangoes, get a pint of Mangga’t Suman gelato (mango sticky rice gelato (P390/pint, ~USD 7.04 ) at Manila Creamery . Or get their new Mango Jasmine flavor exclusively at their SM Megamall, Vertis North, and Alabang Town Center branches.

Conti’s Bakeshop & Restaurant Contact: (02) 8580 8888 | Conti’s Bakeshop & Restaurant’s website For a list of branches, click here .

Scout’s Honor Contact: 0917 589 4547 |  website For a list of branches, click here .

Manila Creamery Contact: 0915 257 3066 |  website For a list of branches, click here .

For a fancy Filipino tasting menu, dine at Toyo Eatery . It’s a contemporary Filipino restaurant that serves unique takes on national and regional Filipino dishes made with ingredients sourced from across the country.

The restaurant offers multiple course tasting menus where you’ll get to try imaginative dishes such as homemade buro (fermented fish) and tostadong bigas (toasted black rice snack).

The dining experience follows a story that’ll make you appreciate their dishes even more. It’s no wonder that the dining spot was included in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants from 2019 to 2021 and in 2023.

Address: The Alley at Karrivin, Karrivin Plaza, 2316 Chino Roces Ave Extension, Makati, Metro Manila Opening hours: Tue-Sat 6pm-10pm (Closed on Sundays and Mondays) Contact: 0917 720 8630 |  website

Spiral at Sofitel Philippine Plaza stands out among the many buffet restaurants in the country for its vast variety of food options and cuisine offerings.

Beyond your usual Western, European, and East Asian favorites, they serve North Indian and Brazilian food. Of course, there’s also a plethora of Filipino delicacies for foreign travelers who don’t have much time to spend in the Philippines. These include lechon  (roast pig) and customizable  halo-halo  (shaved ice dessert).

Attesting to the luxuriousness of this buffet, Spiral features a temperature-controlled cheese room limited to 4 guests at a time.

This luxurious buffet starts at P2,500(~USD45.14) per person.vWhile walk-ins are allowed, securing a reservation is advisable.

Address: Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, Metro Manila Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12pm-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm | Sun 12pm-3pm, 6pm-9.30pm Contact: (02) 8573 5599 |  website

Don’t worry if you don’t have enough time to explore the Philippines. There are so many things you can do in the metro for an unforgettable vacation without having to fly off to other places in the country.

To prepare for your trip, check out these basic Filipino phrases that may come in handy. And if you want to impress your Filipino hosts, go the extra mile and read up on these Filipino etiquette tips .

Cover image adapted from: @okadamanila via Instagram, Okada Manila, David Kim via Google Maps, @thegratergood via Instagram

This article was originally published on 23 December 2022 by Kim Shelly Tan and last updated by Kim Shelly Tan on 23 November 2023.

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Places to Visit in Manila

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Tourist Places in Manila

Here is the list of best places to visit in manila:.

Manila Ocean Park

San Agustin Church

Fort Santiago

National Museum Of The Philippines

Arroceros Forest Park

Manila Cathedral

Robinsons Place Mall

National Museum Of Fine Arts

Ayala Museum

Star City Amusement Park

Paco Park And Cemetery

Greenbelt Chapel

Casa Manila

Binondo Church

Manila Baywalk

Quiapo Church

Divisoria Market

Manila City Hall

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Top 30 Best MANILA TOURIST SPOTS + Things to Do

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Manila Tourist Spots: Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Manila

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Looking for Manila Tourist Spots for your next visit? Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is a bustling metropolis that offers a plethora of tourist spots and attractions for visitors to explore. This vibrant city has something for everyone, from historical landmarks to modern attractions. Manila has plenty of things to do and see whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.

One of Manila’s most popular tourist spots is Intramuros, the walled city that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. Another must-see attraction is Rizal Park, a sprawling green space that honors the country’s national hero, Jose Rizal. Foodies will also be delighted by Manila’s diverse culinary scene, which offers a mix of local and international cuisine.

In a country with one too many beaches, sightseeing in the City of Manila is not first on many travelers’ lists. But it has a lot to offer those brave enough to venture out on its streets. Here are the Top tourist spots in Manila to get you started:

Historical and Religious Landmarks

Manila is a city rich in history and culture, with numerous landmarks and monuments that reflect its past. Here are some of the most significant historical landmarks in Manila.

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Intramuros , also known as the Walled City, is a significant historical site in Manila. It was built during the Spanish colonial period and served as the seat of the Spanish government in the Philippines.

Today, Intramuros is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination in Manila. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets, visit the museums and galleries, and take a tour of the city’s famous landmarks.

Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago is an iconic Spanish fortress in Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. Built in 1571 by Spanish navigator and governor Miguel López de Legazpi, the fort was designed to protect the newly established city of Manila from foreign invaders.

Fort Santiago has stood as a symbol of strength and resilience for centuries, making it one of the most historically significant sites in Manila. Today, the fort remains a reminder of the Philippines’ rich and tumultuous past.

Manila Cathedral

Manila Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Intramuros. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Manila and one of the most significant landmarks in the city. The cathedral has undergone numerous renovations and restorations over the years but retains its historical charm.

The Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, also known as the Manila Cathedral , is a minor basilica located in Intramuros, the historic walled city within today’s modern city of Manila, Philippines.

Located in the heart of the capital, this historical park is a must-see for any visitor. It is home to the iconic monument of national hero Jose Rizal. It offers exciting attractions such as the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the Planetarium.

It is also the perfect spot for outdoor concerts and the famous dancing fountain show. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a visit to Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, is a must!

San Agustin Church

Built in 1587, the Church of Saint Augustine is the oldest stone church in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its architecture reflects the Spanish Baroque style, with intricate carvings and paintings adorning its beautiful interior.

This majestic church stands as a testament to the history of the Philippines and an enduring symbol of the strength of faith and the resilience of the Filipino people.

Quiapo Church

The majestic Minor Basilica and National Shrine of the Black Nazarene, more commonly known as Quiapo Church, stands proudly in the bustling district of Quiapo in the city of Manila, Philippines.

This iconic landmark is renowned for its unique blend of Spanish and Filipino architectural styles and its captivating interior adorned with numerous religious artifacts and paintings. Most of all, Quiapo Church is the home of the miraculous Black Nazarene, a dark statue of Jesus Christ believed to be endowed with divine powers.

Binondo Church

Nestled in the bustling district of Binondo, Manila, lies a magnificent piece of architecture that has withstood the test of time: the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, otherwise known as Binondo Church.

Dedicated to the first Filipino saint, the church is a beautiful example of Chinese Baroque style, with intricate carvings and paintings adorning its walls and pillars. Step inside this grand structure, and you’ll immerse yourself in a rich history preserved for centuries.

University of Santo Tomas

The University of Santo Tomas is a private Catholic university in Sampaloc, Manila. It is the oldest university in the Philippines and one of the most significant landmarks in the city. The university’s architecture reflects the Spanish Baroque style, and its campus is home to numerous historical buildings and monuments.

Paco Park is a historical park located in Paco, Manila. It was built in the 18th century as a cemetery for Spanish aristocrats. Today, it is a popular destination for picnics, weddings, and other events.

The park’s architecture reflects the Spanish colonial period, and its interior is adorned with numerous sculptures and monuments.

Malate Church

The Our Lady of Remedios Parish, also known as Malate Church, is a beloved parish church located in the Malate district in Manila, Philippines. This stunning Mexican Baroque-style church overlooks Plaza Rajah Sulayman and, ultimately, the majestic Manila Bay.

Dedicated to Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, the patroness of childbirth, the church houses a revered statue of the Virgin Mary in her role as Our Lady of Remedios, which was brought from Spain in 1624 and stands at the altar. Malate is a place of rich history, formerly known as Maalat due to the saline waters of the bay, and as Laguio or Lagunoi, the name of the street separated it from Ermita.

San Sebastian Church

The magnificent Minor Basilica of San Sebastian, more commonly known as San Sebastian Church or San Sebastian Basilica, is an awe-inspiring example of Gothic Revival architecture in Manila, Philippines.

Completed in 1891, this remarkable church is the only steel-building church in the country and proudly serves as the home of the Parish of San Sebastian and a Shrine of Nuestra Senora del Monte Carmelo, or Our Lady of Mount Carmel. In recognition of its remarkable history and architecture, San Sebastian Church was designated a National Historical Landmark in 1973 and National Cultural Treasure in 2011.

Museums and Art

Manila is home to a rich cultural heritage; its museums and art galleries are some of the best places to experience it. Here are some of the top museums and art galleries in Manila.

National Museum of Fine Arts

The National Museum of Fine Arts is home to an impressive array of artworks from some of the country’s most renowned artists. Its diverse collection includes masterpieces from the likes of Juan Luna, Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo, and Fernando Amorsolo.

The most celebrated artwork in the museum is the Spoliarium, a remarkable painting by Juan Luna depicting the aftermath of Roman gladiators. This renowned art institution is an umbrella government organization that oversees several national museums in the Philippines, exhibiting ethnographic, anthropological, archaeological, and visual arts collections.

Casa Manila

Located within the walls of the historic Intramuros district, the Casa Manila Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of wealthy Filipino families during the Spanish colonial period.

From antique furniture and artwork to other artifacts from the time, the museum houses a collection of items that bring the past to life. Step into the past and explore the grandeur of the 19th-century Filipino elite at the Casa Manila Museum.

Bahay Tsinoy

Discover the rich history of Chinese-Filipino culture at Bahay Tsinoy, a museum in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines. This museum celebrates the Chinese influence on Filipino culture with its extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and other items that showcase the Chinese-Filipino community’s history and culture.

Explore a range of topics, from Chinese medicine and language to religion, and gain a deeper understanding of the significant role the Chinese have played in the Philippines. Visit Bahay Tsinoy and the Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage Center to learn more about this unique cultural heritage.

National Museum Complex

The National Museum Complex is a collection of museums located in the heart of Manila. The complex includes the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Museum of Natural History , and the National Planetarium. The National Museum of Anthropology houses artifacts and exhibits showcasing the Philippines’ pre-colonial history. The National Museum of Natural History is dedicated to the country’s flora and fauna, while the National Planetarium offers visitors a chance to learn about astronomy and space science.

Shopping and Markets

Manila is a shopper’s paradise, with a plethora of malls, markets, and souvenir shops to explore. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands or bargain finds, there’s something for everyone in the city.

SM Mall of Asia

One of the largest malls in the world, SM Mall of Asia is a must-visit for any shopping enthusiast. The mall features an extensive list of name-brand stores, high-end boutiques, and a good mix of international restaurants.

With an amusement park, cinema, ice skating rink, and a front-row seat overlooking Manila Bay, SM Mall of Asia is the perfect place to spend an entire day.

Divisoria is a bustling market district in Manila that offers a range of products at bargain prices. You can find almost anything in Divisoria, from clothing and accessories to electronics and household items. The key to shopping here is to haggle, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for a better price. Remember that the area can get crowded, so be prepared to navigate the crowds.

Quiapo is another famous market district in Manila known for its religious items and souvenirs. The Quiapo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, is a significant landmark in the area and draws many visitors.

The market stalls surrounding the church offer a variety of religious items, including statues, rosaries, and candles. Quiapo is also home to a bustling street market that sells everything from clothing to food.

Outdoor Attractions

Manila has a lot of outdoor attractions that are perfect for those who want to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Here are some of the best outdoor attractions in Manila:

Manila Baywalk

Manila Baywalk is a popular attraction among locals and tourists alike. The long promenade runs along Manila Bay and offers stunning sunset views. Visitors can take a leisurely walk, bike, or jog along the baywalk while enjoying the sea breeze. There are also several restaurants and cafes near the Baywalk where visitors can grab a bite to eat or drink while enjoying the view.

Manila Ocean Park

Manila Ocean Park is a marine-themed park located in Manila Bay. It features a variety of marine life exhibits, including a shark and ray encounter, a jellyfish exhibit, and a penguin exhibit.

Visitors can watch sea lions and dolphin shows and swim with the fish. The park also has several restaurants and souvenir shops.

Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden

The Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden is a 5.5-hectare park in the heart of Manila. It is home to over 1000 animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and monkeys.

The park also has a botanical garden that features a variety of plants and trees. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park or explore on their own.

Star City Amusement Park

Star City Amusement Park is a popular amusement park in Pasay City, just a few minutes from Manila. It features a variety of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and a haunted house. The park also has several food stalls and souvenir shops.

Arroceros Forest Park

Arroceros Forest Park is a small park located in the heart of Manila. It is a green oasis in the middle of the city and is home to various trees and plants. Visitors can take a leisurely walk or have a picnic in the park. The park also has a playground for children.

Dining and Cuisine

Manila is a food lover’s paradise, with diverse dining options catering to all tastes and budgets. From street food to high-end restaurants, Manila has it all. Here are some of the best places to eat in Manila.

Binondo Food Crawl

Binondo is the oldest Chinatown in the world, and it is a must-visit destination for foodies. The streets are lined with vendors selling all kinds of Chinese delicacies, from dim sum to roasted duck. One of the best ways to experience the food in Binondo is to go on a food crawl . This involves visiting several different restaurants and trying a few dishes at each one. Some of the must-try dishes in Binondo include:

• Dim sum: These bite-sized portions of steamed or fried food are a staple of Chinese cuisine. Popular dim sum dishes include siomai, hakaw, and radish cake.
• Roasted duck: This succulent dish is typically served with rice and a sweet sauce.
• Hopia: This sweet pastry is filled with mung bean paste and is a popular snack in Binondo.

Maranao and Tausug Food in Quiapo

Quiapo is known for its vibrant street markets and religious landmarks, but it is also home to some of the best Maranao and Tausug food in Manila. These two ethnic groups are known for their flavorful dishes, often made with coconut milk and spices. Some of the must-try dishes in Quiapo include:

• Beef kulma: This hearty stew is made with beef, coconut milk, and spices. It is typically served with rice.
• Chicken piaparan: This dish contains chicken, coconut milk, and turmeric. It has a distinct yellow color and a spicy flavor.
• Satti: This popular street food in Quiapo consists of grilled meat on a stick, served with peanut sauce.

Whether you’re in the mood for Chinese cuisine or Maranao and Tausug food, Manila has something to offer every foodie. Be sure to explore the city’s diverse dining scene and try some of the local specialties.

Other Points of Interest

Manila has a rich history and culture, and many points of interest are beyond the famous tourist spots. Here are a few places to consider visiting:

Malate is an exciting neighborhood that pulses with energy day and night. From the lively Manila Baywalk to the traditional eateries of Remedios Circle, visitors will find plenty to explore. The nightlife and entertainment scene is second to none, with various bars, clubs, and restaurants. The Malate Church, one of Manila’s oldest churches, is also located here.

When the sun sets, the Baywalk is the perfect spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines is a must-see for big-name theater and orchestral performances. Art lovers will also appreciate the Metropolitan Museum, which focuses on contemporary Filipino art. Whatever you’re looking for, Malate has it all!

Plaza de Roma

Located in the heart of Intramuros, Plaza de Roma is a public square surrounded by historic buildings such as the Manila Cathedral and the Palacio del Gobernador. It’s the perfect spot for capturing breathtaking photos and taking in the stunning scenery.

During the Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1944, the plaza was known as Plaza Malaki, as American names were removed from public spaces. However, in 1960, the plaza was renamed Plaza Roma in honor of the College of Cardinals in Rome, following the elevation of Manila Archbishop Rufino Santos as the first Filipino cardinal.

Baluarte de San Diego

Explore the fascinating history of Baluarte de San Diego, a 16th-century fort located in Intramuros. Built by the Spanish to defend against invaders, this spade-shaped bulwark is a reminder of Manila’s rich history.

Take a tour of the fort and learn about its past, with an entry charge for adults and free entry for seniors. Discover the remains of the upper portion of the circular watch tower, built from 1586-1587, and marvel at its incredible architecture.

Manila City Hall

Visitors to Manila City Hall can experience a unique blend of history and beauty, as the impressive neoclassical building serves as a tribute to those who lost their lives in the Battle of Manila.

Its coffin-like shape is a reminder of the city’s past, and a visit to the city hall is an opportunity to learn about the city’s history and the role of the city government in shaping Manila. With its beautiful architecture and rich history, Manila City Hall is a must-see for anyone looking to explore the city.

Discover the history and explore the beauty of Escolta , a historic street in the heart of Manila. Once the city’s central commercial district, it now houses many of the country’s firsts and architectural gems.

Take a walking tour of the area to admire the classic Western designs, beautiful buildings, and landmarks. Enjoy the leisure, cultural, and business atmosphere of Escolta’s former years as you explore the area and learn about its rich history.

Transportation

Manila is a bustling city with various transportation options to explore the city’s tourist spots. Visitors can choose from various modes of transportation, including LRT, taxis, jeepneys, calesa, horse-drawn carriages, and airport transfers.

The LRT is a convenient option for tourists to get around Manila. It cuts through most of the city, making reaching popular tourist destinations such as Binondo, Intramuros, and Rizal Park easy. The LRT 1 has a longer route, while the LRT 2 has the shortest route, running through Metro Manila’s East to West areas. Visitors can purchase a single journey ticket or a stored value ticket to save time and money.

Taxis are also a common mode of transportation in Manila. Visitors can hail a taxi on the street or use ride-hailing apps like Grab Car . It is important to note that taxis in Manila do not have meters, so it is recommended to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

Jeepneys are a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines and are known for their colorful designs. They are affordable to get around Manila, but visitors should be prepared for crowded and uncomfortable rides.

Calesa, or horse-drawn carriages, are a unique way to explore Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled city. Visitors can take a leisurely ride and enjoy the sights while listening to the coachman’s stories about the city’s history.

There are several airport transfer options for visitors arriving at the airport. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available, but visitors can also book a private transfer in advance to avoid the hassle of negotiating fares.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top tourist destinations in manila.

Manila is a city that offers a variety of tourist destinations. Some of the top tourist destinations in Manila include Intramuros, Rizal Park, Manila Ocean Park, National Museum, and Fort Santiago. These places offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Philippines.

What are some Instagrammable places to visit in Manila?

For those looking to take Instagram-worthy photos, some of the most popular places to visit in Manila are Bonifacio Global City, Pinto Art Museum, The Dessert Museum, and Art in Island. These places offer unique and colorful backdrops that are perfect for taking photos.

Where can I find historical places to visit in Manila?

Manila is rich in history, and there are several places to visit for those interested in learning more about the city’s past. Some of the historical places to visit in Manila are Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and San Agustin Church. These places offer a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.

What are some cheap hangout places in Manila?

For those on a budget, there are several cheap hangout places in Manila. Some of the popular hangout places include UP Town Center, Circuit Makati, and Maginhawa Street. These places offer a variety of food and entertainment options that won’t break the bank.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Metro Manila?

The number one tourist attraction in Metro Manila is the Mall of Asia. This shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia and offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It is also located near Manila Bay, which offers a beautiful view of the sunset.

Are there any road trip destinations near Manila?

For those looking for a road trip adventure, there are several destinations near Manila that are worth visiting. Some of the popular road trip destinations include Tagaytay, Batangas, and Subic. These places offer scenic views and a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Manila Tourist Spots and Tour Packages

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• Shopping in Quiapo Manila
• Feast of the Black Nazarene: Festival in Quiapo

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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14 Aug 2023 - 11 min read

Exploring Metro Manila: The Best Tourist Spots and Must-See Attractions in the Philippines

Plan your trip to Metro Manila with insights into its must-visit places. Experience historical sites, vibrant culture, and breathtaking views.

Metro Manila, the bustling capital city of the Philippines, is a vibrant hub of culture because it's the center of economic activity. With so much to offer, from fascinating historical landmarks to vibrant nightlife, it's no surprise that Metro Manila, Philippines, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines.

In this article, we’ll help you make the most of your visit to this exciting city by looking at the best tourist attractions in Manila. There’s something for everyone in Metro Manila, whether you’re interested in history, art, shopping, or simply exploring new places.

So let’s dive in and discover the top tourist attractions in the Philippines.

Top 5 Must-See Tourist Spots in Metro Manila

You don’t have enough time to explore all of Manila’s excellent attraction spots within weeks. So, if you want to get the best out of your time in the City, we’ve compiled the top five places travelers enjoy. Read along if you want to know more.

Intramuros Manila

The word "Intramuros" is derived from the Latin word "intra muros," which means "within the walls." This place is a historic walled area in Manila, Philippines.

The site was established in 1571 (Spanish colonial period) and became the center of government, religion, and commerce. The stones and bricks have been excellently maintained, making it a massive artifact of Spanish colonial architecture.

Intramuros has cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and charming plazas that give visitors a glimpse of life during the Spanish colonial era. Because of this, the destination is saturated with tourists interested in the place’s history.

In recent years, efforts have been made to revitalize Intramuros and restore its historic landmarks and buildings. The Intramuros Administration, a government agency responsible for managing and preserving the area, has implemented several projects to improve the infrastructure, promote tourism, and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Intramuros is an essential cultural and historical landmark in the Philippines, serving as a testament to the country's colonial past.

Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago is a 16th-century military fortress in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines. It was built by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi in 1571 as a defensive structure to protect the city from foreign invaders.

Over the centuries, the fortress has been used as a military prison during the Spanish era and a Japanese internment camp during World War II. Furthermore, this was where the Philippine national Hero, Jose Rizal, was imprisoned before his execution in 1986.

Today, Fort Santiago is a museum offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich history. The fort’s walls, bastions, and dungeons have been restored into galleries. The gallery also shows exhibits, artifacts, and artworks.

One of the main attractions in Fort Santiago is the Rizal Shrine. The museum features a collection of memorabilia related to the national hero.

Visitors can explore the chambers where Rizal was detained and see the cell where he spent his last night before execution.

Other notable attractions in Fort Santiago are the Baluarte de Santa Barbara. A former military barracks now houses a diorama exhibit of Manila during the Spanish colonial period.

Overall, Fort Santiago is an essential landmark in Philippine history that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the country's past. It's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the country's colonial heritage.

Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, is a historical landmark in the heart of Manila. The park is named after José Rizal, the national hero whom the Spanish colonial government executed in 1896.

One of the park’s most iconic features is the Rizal Monument —the most recognizable landmark in the whole Philippines. It’s a bronze statue of the hero standing at the center designed by Swiss sculptor Richard Kissling. It was unveiled in 1913 to commemorate the 17th anniversary of the hero’s death.

Aside from the Rizal Monument, the Park also features several other notable attractions. It has the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Museum of Natural History, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and the Quirino Grandstand.

The park is also famous for locals who enjoy a relaxing stroll, picnics, jogging, biking, and many more.

Overall, Rizal Park is an important historical landmark in the Philippines that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the country's rich history. Its stunning natural beauty, iconic monuments, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Manila.

National Museum of the Philippines

The National Museum of the Philippines, a cultural institution, was established in 1901 —making it one of the oldest museums in the country. The museum preserves and promotes Filipino arts (artifacts and cultures) and history. Because of that, it’s considered the country’s premier museum and research institution.

The museum is divided into several sections, each with its own focus and theme. The Fine Arts division, for instance, houses a collection of pre-colonial, colonial, and contemporary artworks. It has paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual art showcasing the development of the Philippines' art over time.

On the other hand, the Anthropology division focuses on the country’s cultural heritage by exhibiting indigenous cultures —their traditional practices and religious beliefs. It also includes a collection of tools early Filipino used daily.

The museum also has a Natural History division that displays the country’s unique plants, animals, and minerals. It also has a Planetarium offering a peek into the universe through various multimedia presentations.

Aside from the exhibits, the museum also hosts lectures and workshops to promote public awareness and appreciation for Filipino culture.

Overall, the National Museum of the Philippines is a treasure trove of Philippine history. Its vast collection of educational programs, research activities, and artifacts make it an important institution in the country. Thus, it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the country’s heritage.

San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the country, was built in 1589 by Augustinian Friars. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a National Historical Landmark in the Philippines.

The church’s stunning Baroque architecture and ornate interior make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Manila’s rich cultural heritage.

One of the most notable features of San Agustin Church is its collection of religious and historical artifacts. One example is the first book ever printed in the Philippines, published in 1593.

The church has played a vital role to Filipinos because, throughout the decades of colonialism, the place of worship was a refuge during times of war —making the establishment a perfect symbol for the country’s Catholic faith.

Today, San Agustin Church is an active parish church hosting religious ceremonies.

Read more : Exploring the Historical and Cultural Treasures of Intramuros

Other Awesome Tourist Attractions Around Metro Manila Worth Visiting

Ocean Park Manila

Ocean Park Manila is a marine theme park and aquarium. It’s a popular tourist attraction offering visitors an immersive underwater world.

The main attraction of this park is its enormous aquarium, housing over 14,000 marine creatures from around the world —sharks, rays, and others. It has different sections that visitors can explore.

Another popular attraction at this park is the Oceanarium Tunnel. It’s a glass tunnel allowing visitors to walk through a giant aquarium with marine creatures swimming around them.

The park also features a Sea Lion Show where visitors can watch the said animals perform tricks and stunts.

The park also has a Symphony Evening Show featuring spectacular light and water shows.

The attraction site offers exciting activities for those looking for adventures, like Shark and Ray Encounters, where visitors can interact with live sharks and rays. Furthermore, there’s also a show, the Mermaid Swim Experience, where visitors can swim with mermaids in a specially designed tank.

Overall, Ocean Park Manila is an exciting destination that offers visitors a unique and immersive experience of the underwater world. Its various attractions and activities and its convenient location make it a must-visit destination for tourists of all ages.

Star City Amusement Park

Star City Amusement Park is an iconic theme park in Pasay City, Philippines. It is a popular attraction for locals and tourists, offering many exciting rides, games, and interests.

One of the park’s main attractions is its thrilling rides like roller coasters, drop towers, spinning rides, the Viking ships, wild river, and many more.

For families bringing their children, don’t worry because there are kiddie rides for them. They have mini roller coasters, bumper cars, and a carousel. Children will also win prizes at the park’s game booths.

In addition to its rides and attractions, Star City hosts various shows and entertainment events throughout the year. The park's annual Christmas-themed event, known as the Star City Winter Festival, is a particularly popular attraction that features dazzling lights, festive decorations, and holiday-themed shows and attractions.

The attraction site is also known for its delicious local and international food offerings.

Overall, Star City Amusement Park is a fun and exciting destination that offers something for visitors of all ages. Its thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and festive atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun day in Manila.

SM Mall of Asia

SM Mall of Asia Complex Central Business District (CBD) is a dynamic commercial and leisure hub in Pasay City. It is a sprawling development that covers over 60 hectares of land, making it one of the largest business districts in the country.

The CBD is anchored by the iconic SM Mall of Asia (MOA), one of the world's largest shopping centers. MOA boasts more than 600 retail stores housing popular international brands and various dining options, entertainment facilities, and leisure attractions. In addition, MOA has its arena, convention center, and massive IMAX theater that can seat up to 600 people.

The CBD also has several high-rise offices towers housing various multinational and local companies and government agencies. These buildings have modern amenities and state-of-the-art facilities, making them a prime location for businesses looking for a strategic and dynamic workplace.

Moreover, the CBD has several green spaces, such as the MOA Eye Park and the Bay Area Amusement Park. These areas provide a relaxing and enjoyable environment for people to unwind and connect with nature.

The SM Mall of Asia Complex CBD is located near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and the Philippine Entertainment City, making it easily accessible to locals and tourists.

In summary, SM Mall of Asia Complex Central Business District is a world-class commercial and leisure hub that offers visitors a dynamic and comfortable lifestyle. Its prime location, modern amenities, and diverse offerings are a testament to the Philippines' growing economy and its commitment to providing world-class services to its people.

Makati Skyline View from roof Deck Restaurant

Makati Skyline is one of Manila’s most recognizable and stunning views. It is a breathtaking panorama of high-rise buildings and skyscrapers. Many visitors and locals flock to rooftop restaurants in Makati to enjoy the view while dining.

One of the most popular rooftop restaurants in Makati is on the 31st floor of the Gramercy Residences. The restaurant boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that offer unobstructed views of the city's skyline, where diners can enjoy the city's spectacular night view while enjoying a delicious meal. The restaurant's ambiance is warm and inviting, with elegant decor and comfortable seating.

Apart from the view, the restaurant also offers various culinary delights, including international and local cuisine.

Overall, the Makati Skyline View from the rooftop restaurant is an attractive site that offers a stunning view of the city. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Manila while savoring excellent food and drinks.

Discover Authentic Local Food & Shopping Experiences in Metro Manila

Adobo is a popular Filipino dish of meat (usually chicken or pork) marinated and simmered in a flavorful sauce made with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings such as bay leaves and black peppercorns. The dish is often served over rice and can be accompanied by vegetables or other side dishes.

The combination of vinegar and soy sauce in the sauce gives the dish a unique tartness balanced by the meat's richness.

Adobo is a dish often associated with Filipino culture and is seen as representing the country's cuisine. For many foreigners, trying adobo is an opportunity to experience a new and exciting culture and to connect with people from different parts of the world.

Balut is a fertilized duck egg that is boiled and eaten as a popular delicacy in several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines.

Some may find eating an egg with a partially formed bird inside unappetizing —even to some Filipinos. In contrast, others may be more open to trying it as an exotic food experience.

This should be on your bucket list if you’re a foreigner willing to embrace local and authentic delicacy.

Bistek is made by marinating thin slices of beef in a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi juice (a citrus fruit similar to lime), and garlic. The meat is then sautéd in a pan with sliced onions until caramelized and cooked to the desired doneness.

Bistek is often served with steamed rice and vegetables such as green beans or carrots. It is a simple and flavorful dish that many Filipinos love and is often served in Filipino households and restaurants.

Some foreigners who are used to eating beef dishes may enjoy Bistek's tender and flavorful meat. However, for those not used to eating meat dishes that are heavily seasoned with soy sauce or have a tangy flavor, Bistek may be too strong or overpowering.

Additionally, the dish may be considered too simple or lacking in complexity for those who are used to more elaborate or intricate meat dishes.

Read more : Manila's Budget-Friendly Staycation Spots for an Affordable Holiday

And there you have it, fellow adventurers! From the captivating history of Intramuros to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Rizal Park, Metro Manila has a plethora of wonders waiting for you to explore. But hold on tight, because we're about to give you the ultimate tip for making the most of your travel plans!

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Imagine this: Your smartphone becomes a magic wand that lets you access a world of attractions and activities through Traveloka Xperience. From exciting theme parks to cultural shows, you can have it all at your fingertips. No more hopping from site to site - Traveloka gathers everything you need in one convenient place.

So, what's the verdict? It's time to turn those travel dreams into reality! Pack your bags, put on your explorer's hat, and let Traveloka guide you on a journey filled with memories waiting to be made. Plan your holiday, indulge in staycations, and dive into adventures with the confidence that Traveloka has your back.

Go ahead, wanderlusters, take the leap and experience Metro Manila like never before. Your next adventure starts with Traveloka - where travel dreams come true.

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12 tourist spots to visit in metro manila.

Whenever there are long weekends and vacations coming up, I’m sure most of us instantly research on where to travel and which provinces to visit. But for some of us who just can’t endure that long ride and the extreme traffic, we can also enjoy long weekends and be like a tourist right here in Manila! The Metro is just teeming with tourist spots that anyone can enjoy. There’s nothing wrong with being a tourist in your own city.

Here are 12 tourist spots in Manila you should visit at least once!

The walled city of Intramuros is home to many historical sites and churches such as Fort Santiago and Baluarte de San Diego. Travel back in time as you walk along the picturesque old streets or you can even try riding a kalesa.

Home to the world’s oldest Chinatown, strolling through Binondo will let you see the beauty of history and the diversity of culture. When in Binondo, spend your time eating and trying out some of the oldest food spots in Manila.

The famous Rizal Park is the place of many historical events in Manila. Now, it is a beautiful urban park where families enjoy strolling around the many park areas, visiting educational sites, or attending various events.

Manila Ocean Park

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoyLc6Nh_hH/

Love the sea and marine animals? The Manila Ocean Park is the country’s largest marine theme park. Experience diving with underwater creatures, swimming like a mermaid, and training sea lions!

Art in Island

Art in Island is a unique art museum featuring immersive 3-D art that lets you be part of the art itself! This selfie-friendly spot is a favorite of families from all over the country.

The Mind Museum

Exercise your brain with a visit to this educational museum. The Mind Museum features science presentations and immersive exhibits that young and old audiences will enjoy.

National Planetarium

The newly-renovated planetarium will take you out of this world! With new exhibits, new facilities, and educational shows, The Planetarium is definitely worth a visit.

National Museum

Immerse in the country’s history with a visit to the National Museum. It’s home to many historical artifacts and legendary works that will help you appreciate your cultural heritage. Plus, there are monthly cultural exhibits worth looking out for.

Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwl2f5MAn2m/

If you’re a nature-lover, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center is a must-visit spot in Metro Manila. The 22-hectare park is a refuge to animals and home to luscious trees that will give you much-needed fresh air in the heart of the city.

Manila Cathedral

The Manila Cathedral is one of the most admired Catholic churches in the country, famous for its majestic and grand design. It’s also the site of many historical religious events, such as the papal visits.

Yexel’s Toy Museum

https://www.instagram.com/p/3EDrJFSJEm/

Feel like a kid again when you visit Yexel’s Toy Museum! What started out as a toy collection by Yexel Sebastian is now a full-blown toy museum featuring action figures, life-sized statues of your favorite fictional characters, and an 18-feet tall Optimus Prime bust!

The Dessert Museum

Experience the sweetest tourist spot in Manila! The Dessert Museum features eight rooms dedicated to certain desserts. Aside from the sweet photos, you can also have your fill of sweet desserts inside the museum!

Which tourist spot in Manila are you going to visit next?

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She loves discovering new places, dragging friends to said places, and initiating gimmicks--which is a nice way of saying "pasimuno." She's a broken soul that's been saved by grace. A film graduate from UP Diliman, a music enthusiast, a musician's wife, and a follower of Jesus. Follow her on TikTok and Instagram: @viviendelvalle

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First-Timer’s Guide to Manila: Must-See Sights and Hidden Gems

Welcome to the bustling and vibrant capital of the Philippines – Manila! Whether you’re here for a quick visit or planning to immerse yourself in the local culture, our comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate the city’s must-see sights and hidden gems.

Day 1: Historical Exploration

Begin your adventure in the historic district of Intramuros, the ancient walled city within Manila. Take a leisurely stroll through its cobblestone streets, visit the iconic San Agustin Church , and explore Fort Santiago , which played a pivotal role during the Spanish colonial period.

After soaking in the history, head over to Rizal Park (also known as Luneta Park), a large urban park that honors Dr. José Rizal, a national hero. Enjoy the greenery, visit the Rizal Monument, and don’t miss watching the sunset at Manila Bay .

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Dive into the rich culture of Manila by visiting the National Museum of the Philippines . This museum showcases the artistic and historical heritage of the country. Spend a few hours exploring its various galleries, which include ancient artifacts and contemporary art.

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant district of Binondo , home to the world’s oldest Chinatown. Treat your taste buds to authentic Filipino-Chinese cuisine, visit local markets, and take a jeepney ride – a quintessential Manila experience.

Day 3: Modern Manila

On your third day, venture into Makati , the financial hub of the city. Shop at luxury malls, such as Greenbelt and Glorietta, and enjoy the culinary delights in the area. Don’t forget to check out the trendy bars and cafes for an evening of relaxation.

For a unique contrast, visit the Manila Ocean Park , an oceanarium featuring diverse marine life exhibits. It’s an excellent spot for families and those fascinated by the underwater world.

Culinary Delights

One of the most exciting aspects of Manila is its diverse culinary scene. From street food to fine dining, the city offers an array of flavors:

• Adobo – A savory dish made with pork or chicken.
• Lechon – Whole roasted pig, crispy and delicious.
• Halo-Halo – A refreshing dessert made with crushed ice, milk, and various sweet toppings.
• Sinigang – A tangy soup usually made with pork and vegetables.
• Balut – A unique and adventurous delicacy of fertilized duck egg.

Practical Information

Transportation: Manila offers multiple transportation options, including jeepneys, tricycles, buses, MRT/LRT train systems, and ride-sharing apps like Grab.

Weather: Manila has a tropical climate. The best time to visit is from November to April, avoiding the peak typhoon season.

Language: Filipino (Tagalog) is the official language, but English is widely spoken.

Currency: The currency used is the Philippine Peso (PHP).

We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable first visit to Manila. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, Manila is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

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Last Updated: September 12, 2024

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