Malabon Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Malabon with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Malabon, a city in Metro Manila, is one of the hidden gems of the Philippines that is often overlooked by tourists. Despite its small size, Malabon offers an array of exciting activities, historical sites, and delicious food that make it a must-visit destination in the country. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Malabon.

Introduction to Malabon

Malabon is a city north of Metro Manila and is well-known for its delicious food, historic sites, and natural attractions. The city sits along the coast of Manila Bay, and it is a significant fishing port that is also famous for its crispy fried fish and shrimp paste.

List of Places to Visit in Malabon

Here are some of the must-visit places in Malabon:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Malabon City Museum: a small museum that showcases the city’s history, culture, and heritage.
  • San Bartolome Church: a 400-year-old church that is a popular pilgrimage site among Catholics.

Natural Attractions of Malabon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Malabon Zoo: a small zoo that houses various animals, including tigers, monkeys, and birds.
  • Capitol Park and Lagoon: a scenic park with beautiful greenery, a lagoon, and a fountain.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Malabon

Malabon might not be known for its hiking or biking routes, but there are a few hidden gems worth checking out:

  • Tawiran Trail: a scenic bike trail that runs along the coast of Malabon Bay and offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset.
  • Pulong Buli Trail: a hiking trail that takes you through a small fishing village and ends at a beautiful hilltop viewpoint.

Best Things to Do in Malabon: Activities and Tours

  • Food Tour: Malabon is famous for its local food, so make sure to join a food tour and taste some of the city’s most iconic dishes.
  • Sunset Cruise: sunset cruises are a great way to enjoy the stunning views of Manila Bay.

Week-Long Itinerary for Malabon

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Malabon, here’s our suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Malabon City Museum and take a guided tour of San Bartolome Church.

Day 2: Explore the beautiful Capitol Park and Lagoon and take a sunset cruise on Manila Bay.

Day 3: Take a bike ride along the Tawiran Trail and sample some of the local food on a food tour.

Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby Navotas city and visit the Tullahan River.

Day 5: Enjoy a hike along the Pulong Buli Trail and visit the Malabon Zoo.

Day 6: Take a leisurely stroll along the Malabon Baywalk and experience the local street food scene.

Day 7: Spend a day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of nearby Bataan or Zambales.

Food and Drink Scene of Malabon

Malabon is famous for its seafood dishes, and here are some must-try dishes and local beverages that you should not miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pancit Malabon: a local noodle dish made with seafood and rice noodles.
  • Fried Crispy Pata: a crispy fried pork dish that is a local favorite.

Local Beverages

  • Sago’t Gulaman: a sweet drink made with sago pearls and agar jelly.

Where to Stay in Malabon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay in Malabon:

  • Hotel Sogo: a budget-friendly hotel that offers clean rooms and basic amenities.
  • Luxent Hotel: a luxury hotel that offers beautiful views and excellent service.

What to Buy in Malabon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the local products and souvenirs that you should consider bringing back home from Malabon:

  • Kakanin: a local delicacy made from rice that comes in various flavors like ube, pandan, and mango.
  • Shrimp Paste: a savory condiment that is widely used in Filipino cuisine.

Local Culture and Customs of Malabon

Malabon has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its local festivals like the “Bakood Festival” celebrated each June. The festival pays homage to the city’s fishing community.

Best Time to Visit Malabon

The best time to visit Malabon is from November to February when the weather is cooler and drier.

Do’s and Don’ts of Malabon

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Learn about the city’s history and culture by visiting museums and historical sites.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing or provocative clothing in public places as it is frowned upon in the local culture.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions of the people.

Safety and Health

Safety in Malabon

Malabon is relatively safe, but it’s always important to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions, such as not displaying valuables in public and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Malabon

Drinking tap water in the Philippines is not advisable, so make sure to stick to bottled or boiled water during your trip to Malabon.

Getting to Malabon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Malabon

The nearest airport to Malabon is Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which is approximately 30 minutes away from the city.

Bus Stations Near Malabon

Several bus companies operate in Metro Manila, and you can easily get a ride to Malabon from popular bus stations like Cubao and Pasay.

Other Options

Malabon is also accessible via taxis, ride-sharing services, and jeepneys.

How to Get Around in Malabon

The most convenient way to get around Malabon is by tricycle, which is a motorbike with an attached sidecar. Alternatively, you can take a jeepney or a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Malabon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some popular nearby destinations and excursions that you can explore during your trip to Malabon:

  • Manila: the bustling capital city of the Philippines, known for its rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Bataan: a scenic province that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure.

Conclusion

Malabon might be a small city, but it offers an array of exciting activities, experiences, and delicious food that make it a must-visit destination in the Philippines. Plan your trip now and discover all the wonders that the city has to offer!