25 Best Places To Visit In Manila In 2023 You Should Not Miss!
Metropolitan Manila or Manila is the capital of Philippines and a burgeoning Asian Metropolis. The city carries a legacy dating back centuries and was ruled by many countries including Spain, America, and Japan, all of which left behind a part of their culture in the city. Owing to the various places to visit in Manila like churches and historical monuments, the city is also called the ‘Rome of the East’. But the city has more than just history; there are beautiful parks, amusement parks, and other tourist attractions just waiting to be explored. Here are some amazing places to visit in Manila you must explore.
25 Tourist Places To Visit In Manila
There are a plethora of places to visit in Manila. We have shortlisted 25 of them based on popularity and taking into account the preferences of a variety of travelers such as solo backpackers, couples, and more. Take a look:
- Rizal Park:Pay Ode To The National Hero
- Fort Santiago:Imposing Structure
- Manila Ocean Park:Meet The Marine Life
- San Agustin Church:Spectacular Baroque Architecture
- National Museum Complex:Place For History Lovers
- Malacanang Palace:Incredibly Beautiful
- Manila Zoo:Watch The Wildlife
- Manila Cathedral:Intricate Woodwork
- Arroceros Forest Park:Adore The Beauty
- Star City Amusement Park:Try The Adventurous Rides
- Republiq:Buzzing Nightlife
- Manila Baywalk:Witness The Skyscrapers
- Divisoria Market:Bargain Like A Pro
- Casa Manila:Explore The fascinating Facts
- Robinsons Place Mall:For All The Shopaholics
- Greenbelt Chapel:Attractive Tourist Spot
- Paco Park:Relax Around
- Chinese Cemetery: Architectural Marevl
- Bahay Tsinoy:Tour Around
- Money Museum:Treasure Trove
- Binondo:Oldest Chinatown
- Ayala Museum:Know The History
- Bonifacio Global City:Entertaining Fusion
- Mall Of Asia:Shop Around
- San Agustin Museum:A Place For History Enthusiasts
1. Rizal Park: Pay Ode To The National Hero
Rizal Park is the city’s biggest public park and is very dear to the Filipinos due to its historical significance. It is one of the best places to visit in Manila, Philippines. The Park is the location where their national hero, Jose Rizal, was executed. Today, the park is spread over 140 acres and has beautiful ornamental gardens, statues of historical figures, a Central Lagoon with musical fountains, as well as an Orchidarium. Also locally known as Luneta Park, is one of the top tourist spots in Manila for couples who love to stroll in its pretty avenues and lawns. For the best Manila attractions and tours, take a free guided walk tour. A lot of them start from the park.
Location: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
Entry fee: INR 26
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
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2. Fort Santiago: Imposing Structure
Fort Santiago is one of the first places to visit Metro Manila. The fort was completed in 1593 and is located in the ancient walled city of Intramuros. The stone walls of the fort have many structures including the famous Rizal Shrine which is dedicated to Rizal. The fort has seen history shape the city right from the Spanish conquest to World War II. It is one of the best tourist places in Manila with friends as not only is the area full of history but its ancient architecture make for great photography spots and is also included in the Manila sightseeing of every traveler. This is one of the toptourist spots in Manila.
Location: Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Entry fee: INR 100
Timings: 8 AM – 9 PM
3. Manila Ocean Park: Meet The Marine Life
One of the best places to visit in Manila is the Manila Ocean Park. The park has so many attractions that even a day at the park won’t be enough! The highlight is the Oceanarium which has more than 14,000 animals across 270 marine species, making it one of the biggest aquariums in the world. There are also exciting animal shows like the Seal Lion Show, Penguin Show, and the All the Bird Show which will amaze you! Some other interesting exhibits include the World of Creepy Crawlies, Birds of the Prey Kingdom, and the Sharks and Ray Encounter. This is among the best places to visit in Manila with friends.
Location: 666 Behind Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
Entry fee: INR 526 onwards
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
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4. San Agustin Church:Spectacular Baroque Architecture
The San Agustin Church is one of the most important tourist spots in Manila. The Church is the oldest church in the Philippines, and though initially built-in 1586, it has seen many renovations including the latest one in 2013. The church is a National Landmark as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its striking Baroque architecture. The church is still in use and if lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of a traditional mass or wedding in progress! it is indeed one of the most visited tourist spots in Manila.
Location: General Luna St, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Entry fee: INR 132
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
5. National Museum Complex: Place For History Lovers
It is one of the top places to visit in Manila for kids. The Filipinos are incredibly proud of their history and heritage, and you can see that all on display at the National Museum Complex in Manila. The museum complex has no entry fees because the government wants everyone from across the world to see the history of the Philippines in one of the best places to visit in Manila alone without being bored! The complex includes the National Art Gallery, Museum of the Filipino People and the Planetarium.
Location: P. Burgos Drive, Rizal Park, Manila
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
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6. Malacanang Palace:Incredibly Beautiful
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It is one of the best places to visit in Manila for couples. Officially the residence of the President of Philippines, the Malacanang Palace does not often feature among the top tourist spots in Manila. Yet, it is an incredibly beautiful place steeped in history, and it is definitely among the best places to visit in Manila for free! The Palace was built in the 18th century in the Bahay na Bato and Neoclassical style. The palace is well-maintained, and visitors can visit the Presidential Museum and Library for a better understanding of Manila since its independence.
Location: Malacañan Palace, JP Laurel Street, San Miguel, Manila
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
7. Manila Zoo:Watch The Wildlife
Hippopotamus, Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Malayan Civet, Monitor Lizard, and many more animals can be seen at the Manila Zoo. The zoo is among the best places to see in Manila if you are traveling with kids. There are over 500 animals from over 100 species. Within the campus of the zoo, there is also a Botanical Garden and Arboretum to see a variety of plants that belong to the local ecology of the Philippines. It is an interesting stop, and you can easily spend an hour seeing all the animals.
Location: Adriatico St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila
Entry fee: INR 132
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
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8. Manila Cathedral: Intricate Woodwork
The Manila Cathedral has survived earthquakes and conquests for more than 400 years now! The Basilica was originally built in 1571 but has evolved, and the current structure is the eighth building! The cathedral is a stellar example of Neo-Romanesque architecture and is admired by architecture buffs from around the world and features among the Manila attractions for the top 10 list. The highlight of the cathedral is the enormous pipe organ and the high-vaulted ceiling with intricate woodwork. It is one of the best places to visit in Manila alone.
Location: Sto. Tomas, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
9. Arroceros Forest Park: Adore The Beauty
Manila is notorious for its traffic jams and constant hustle bustle, but visitors can find refuge for a few hours in one of the most beautiful places in Manila – the Arroceros Forest Park. The Park is a small but dense forest and provides the much needed green lung space in the busy city. It has more than 60 tree species and over 8,000 plants that are now home to over ten different bird species. It is also one of the most romantic places in Manila, and you can find many couples take wedding photo shoots in the park! This is definitely one of thegreat places to visit in Manila.
Location: Antonio Villegas St, 659 A Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
Timings: 7:30 AM – 6 PM
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10. Star City Amusement Park: Try The Adventurous Rides
The best thing to do after all the historical sightseeing is to let your hair down and enjoy the Star City, Amusement Park. The biggest amusement park in the country, it is also one of the best places to visit in Manila at night. The twinkly lights of the Ferris Wheel and the crazy lights and sounds of the rides and attractions make it one of the most interesting places in Manila. The park has attractions for all ages, but the best ones are the extreme rides including Star Frisbee. It also has a unique attraction, the Snow World where visitors can enjoy the experience of playing in the snow!
Location: Vicente Sotto St, Pasay, Metro Manila
Entry fee: INR 645
Timings: 2 PM – 10:30 PM
11. Republiq:Buzzing Nightlife
Visit one of the biggest and most popular clubs in Manilla for an extraordinary nightlife experience. Republiq is a Las Vegas-styled club and is known to host various extravagant events involving EDM and House genre music with DJs from around the world. It is the best place in Manila to hang out at night. If you’re looking for good places to visit in Manila for partying, then this is where you should come.
Location: Unit 8, Second Level, Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila
Timings: Opened on Wed, Thurs, Fri
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12. Manila Baywalk:Witness The Skyscrapers
Witnessing a romantic sunset at the Manila Baywalk should not be missed at all when you are in the Philippines. Stretching from the American Embassy down to the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Baywalk measure around 2 kms along the shore. You can find skyscrapers across the road, and at the Manila Yacht Club, one can relax at cafes, restaurants, and enjoy live street music performances too. You will have the time of your life here with friends and family.
Location: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila
Entry fee: None
Timings: 5 AM – 12:30 AM
13. Divisoria Market: Bargain Like A Pro
This is considered to be the Mother of all Markets in the city of Manila. This flea market lies exactly in the city’s heart, that is Chinatown. The bustling market has everything you’re looking for. The best part about this market is that you’ll get everything at really cheap prices. From shopping to eating, you’ll be overwhelmed by the variety that you’ll find here. When looking for souvenirs, do make a visit to this place.
Location: plaza sans luis complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
Timings:7:00 am – 9:00 pm
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14. Casa Manila: Explore The Fascinating Facts
Image Credit: Jorge Láscar from Melbourne, Australia
This is a museum in the city of Intramuros that was built in the year 1980 by the architect, Imelda Marcos. The museum has been constructed in exquisite Spanish colonial architecture. This museum has been constructed as a replica to San Nicolas House that signified the colonial way of living of the Filipinos. There are awe-striking elements from the past that have been put on display here. If you’re a history buff, this place is a must-visit!
Location: plaza sans Luis complex, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
15. Robinsons Place Mall:For All The Shopaholics
Image Credit: RioHondo
If you want to go on a shopping spree, then this mall is the place for you! Located just behind the well-known Philippine General Hospital, this mall is considered to be one of the most-visited places in the city of Manila. There’s a huge variety of branded showrooms in this mall where you can buy clothes and accessories. After a vigorous shopping session, you can go to the food court to satiate your cravings.
Location:Pedro Gil St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
Timings: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
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16. Greenbelt Chapel:Attractive Tourist Spot
Located in Makati District, this place is for those who’d love to know about the religious aspects of Manila city. The construction of this chapel was completed in the year 1983. Apart from being one of the most religiously rich places, Greenbelt Chapel is also renowned for its architecture and is therefore counted amongst the most attractive buildings in the city.
Location: Ayala Center, Greenbelt Park, Legazpi Village, Makati, 1228 Metro Manila, Philippines
17. Paco Park:Relax Around
This park is known for its lush greenery and is one of the best places you can come to if you’re seeking peace. The park was formerly called Cementerio General de Dilao when it was a cemetery built during the Spanish colonial period by the Dominicans. The park is not only a recreational spot for locals as well as tourists, it even holds major historical significance.
Location: Belen, Paco, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Timings: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
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18. Chinese Cemetery: Architectural Marvel
Image Credit: David Stanley Wikimedia
Popular as “Millionaires’ Row”, the Chinese Cemetery is flanked by luxurious villas and stunning houses on a two-way street. The two or three-storeyed villas are actually mausoleums but they are also completely functional households. All adorned with gorgeous chandeliers, running water, kitchens, and toilets. Tour this place for cultural, architectural, and historical enlightenment.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Entry Fee: NA
Timings: Open 24/7
19. Bahay Tsinoy: Tour Around
Image Credit: Bahnfrend for Wikimedia
Find this on the Cabildo Streets in the City of Intramuros. This is an age-old museum housed within the insides of the Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage center building, that holds the history and contributions of the Chinese in the past life. Tour this place to know more about porcelain collections.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Entry Fee: NA
Timings: Open 24/7
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20. Money Museum: Treasure Trove
Image Credit: Vavaniada for Wikimedia
The Museum is a literal treasure trove of ancient coins, banknotes, barter exchanges, bills, etc. Owned and run by the Central Bank of the Philippines. A favorite tourist hotspot of the city. The museum basically traces the history of the Philippines’ economy.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Entry Fee: NA
Timings: Open 24/7
21. Binondo: Oldest Chinatown
Image Credit: patrickroque001 for Wikimedia
Famous as the world’s oldest Chinatown, Binondo is a district in Manila. It bustles with markets loaded with cozy shops of goldsmiths, bakeries, incense sticks, tea houses. It used to be a hub for Chinese trade and commerce governed by the Filipino-Chinese in the olden years.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Entry Fee: NA
Timings: Open 24/7
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22. Ayala Museum: Know The History
Image Credit: Ayala Museum for Wikimedia
The Ayala Museum is a famous museum in Metro Manila that exhibits four floors of contemporary relics of Filipino culture, history, art & majestic museums. The major highlight of the repository is the portrayal of the 60 different magnificent dioramas, all trace the country’s historical facts. The place is ideal for history enthusiasts, and those who love the explore ancient facts & stories. When here you can also attend workshops, lectures, exhibitions on photography, writing, and art.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Entry Fee: Free.
Timings: Open 24/7
23. Bonifacio Global City: Entertaining Fusion
Image Credit: Mjdiamzon for Wikimedia
Popular as the Global City or The Fort is a financial, lifestyle, and business district. The city was formerly a military base that was later converted to a well-planned neighborhood. It is now a major place for shopping, entertainment, dining, tourism. Here you’ll also see rocketing skyscrapers, classic hotels, world-class museums. In all, the place is a perfect fusion of everything a tourist generally seeks for.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Timings: Open 24/7
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24. Mall Of Asia: Shop Around
Image Credit: Patrickroque001 for Wikimedia
Situated in the Pasay district of Metro Manila, The Mall of Asia is the fourth largest mall in the Philippines. The Mall has four sections- The main mall, the Entertainment Mall, the south and north parking buildings that are connected through walkways. The walkways cater to various options for entertainment, leisure, shopping, etc.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Entry Fee: Free.
Timings: Open 24/7
25. San Agustin Museum: A Place For History Enthusiasts
Image Credit: Rmdelossantos for Wikimedia
Situated near the San Augustin Church, The San Museum is a gorgeous museum that treasures religious pieces of art portraying the rich history of Catholicism. It is a UNESCO world heritage site whose stunning architecture attracts visitors. The gallery and the hallways are all filled with paintings of the saints. The tourists will also witness sculptures and other art pieces from all around the world. The most popular relics include botanical drawings, antique furniture, ceramics, liturgical goods, etc.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Entry Fee: NA
Timings: Open 24/7
Further Read: A Shopaholic’s Guide To Shopping in Philippines
Now that you know there are so many amazing and interesting places to visit in Manila, when will you book your Asia trip? Don’t linger. Plan your vacation in advance and score exciting deals and discounts. Except for offseason, accommodation and airfare are expensive in Manila. So, make your choice accordingly.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Manila
Is it safe to travel internationally in the upcoming weeks or months?
The tourism industry is slowly reopening, and you can visit most of the above-mentioned places and more if travelling in a small group while following all the guidelines released. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure.
Where can I go to Manila with friends?
You can go to Maginhawa Street, Greenhills Shopping Center, and Rizal Park with friends and even family. The places are just the right tourist spots that you must explore with your loved ones.
What is Manila famous for?
The city of the Philippines, Manila is known for its markets, parks, museums, etc. There are various places in Manila that tourists can explore.
Where can I go for free in Manila?
There are a number of free activities you can indulge yourself in when you are in the city of Manila. Some of them are visiting the National Museum, taking a language course, walking around Luneta Park, exercising in UP Diliman, and more.
Is December rainy season in Manila?
Yes. December is a dry season. The dry season starts in late November and ends in May. The rainy season starts in June and lasts till October. September and October are often the typhoons season in the Philippines.
What is the coldest month in Manila?
January happens to be the coldest month in Manila with a temperature of 78°F (26°C) with the most daily sunshine hours at 9 in April. May is the hottest month in Manila with an average temperature of 85°F (30°C) and the wettest month is August with an average of 140mm of rain.
Does it snow in Manila?
Manila does not experience snow. The Philippines is a warm region and does not have a very cold temperature or experience of snow. However, if that happens, it could be a large effect of climate change.
Is Manila safe for tourists?
Like many other countries, the Philippines has pockets where more violence tends to occur and areas that are generally considered safe. There is an active travel warning for the Philippines, but only for some regions. Most other parts of the nation are generally considered as safe as other places in Southeast Asia.
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