Manila Travel Guide (Metro Manila/Luzon/Philippines/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Manila

Manila is the vibrant capital city of the Philippines located at the heart of Metro Manila in Luzon. Known for its rich history and cultural sites, Manila also offers breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey around Manila - from its cultural attractions to its hiking and biking trails, food and drinks, accommodations, cultural customs, and logistics.

List of Places to Visit in Manila

Make sure to include these sites on your itinerary when exploring Manila:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fort Santiago - This historical site was used as a military defense fortress during the Spanish colonial period and now serves as a museum that recounts the events of the Philippine Revolution and the heroism of national hero Jose Rizal.
Intramuros - The oldest district and the “Walled City” of Manila, Intramuros offers a walk down memory lane and picturesque Spanish colonial-era landmarks such as the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, and Rizal Park.
National Museum of Fine Arts - The museum showcases the works of Filipino artists such as Juan Luna, Fernando Amorsolo, and Felix Hidalgo.
National Museum of Anthropology - The museum displays the rich ethnographic collections of the Philippines dating back to the pre-colonial era.
Quiapo Church - The shrine of the Black Nazarene, Quiapo Church is one of the most popular religious sites in the Philippines where many devotees come to pray and light candles.

Natural Attractions of Manila: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Pinatubo - A popular hiking destination, Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano that offers breathtaking views from the summit.
Pagsanjan Falls - Located 2.5 hours away from Manila, Pagsanjan Falls is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. You can enjoy a bamboo raft ride that leads you to the foot of the thundering waterfall.
Corregidor Island - Just a short ferry ride away from Manila, Corregidor Island served as a fortress during WWII, and now houses museums, ruins, and war memorials that offer visitors a glimpse into the Philippines’ history.
Manila Bay Sunset - At the end of a busy day of exploring, head to Manila Bay for breathtaking sunset views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Manila

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love these hiking and biking routes in and around Manila:

Mount Pamitinan - A popular hiking destination in Rizal Province, Mount Pamitinan offers a challenging ascent with stunning views of the countryside.
BGC (Bonifacio Global City) Cycling Path - This 4.5 km cycling path is a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts and families who are looking for safe, scenic routes to ride.
Marikina River Park - The 11-kilometer bike trail in Marikina River Park is a great option for cycling enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Masungi Georeserve - Located just outside of Manila, Masungi Georeserve is a must-visit for adventure seekers. The conservation park features various hiking and biking trails, rope courses, and rock formations.

Best Things to Do in Manila: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, Manila has something for everyone. Here are some of our top picks for things to do in the city:

Food Tour - Get a taste of the local cuisine by taking a food tour that takes you to some of the best restaurants and street food vendors in the city.
Sunset Cruise - Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise around Manila Bay, complete with a dinner buffet and live music.
Manila Walking Tour - Experience the city like a local by taking a guided walking tour to some of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
Museum Tours - Learn about Filipino history and culture by taking a guided tour at the National Museum of Fine Arts and Anthropology.

Week-Long Itinerary for Manila

Day 1: Intramuros Walking Tour and Fort Santiago Day 2: National Museum of the Philippines and Rizal Park Day 3: Mount Pinatubo Day Hike Day 4: Pagsanjan Falls Day Trip Day 5: Manila Bay Cruise and Quiapo Church Day 6: Marikina River Park Biking and Masungi Georeserve Day 7: Shopping and Local Dishes at Divisoria Market

Food and Drink Scene of Manila

No trip to Manila is complete without trying the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Adobo - The Philippines’ national dish - a savory dish made of chicken or pork marinated in soy sauce and vinegar.
Lechon - Spit-roasted pig that is crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside.
Tapsilog - A popular Filipino breakfast dish made with beef, garlic rice, and fried egg.
Sisig - A sizzling pork dish commonly served with rice.

Local Beverages

San Miguel Beer - The Philippines’ most popular beer brand.
Halo-Halo - A refreshing dessert made of shaved ice, milk, and various fruits and sweets.
Calamansi Juice - A refreshing tart juice made of calamansi fruit.

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

Whether you’re a budget traveler or looking for a luxury stay, Manila has a variety of accommodation options:

The Bayleaf Intramuros - A boutique hotel located in a historic building in Intramuros.
Herald Suites Solana - A budget-friendly hotel with modern amenities located in Makati City.
The Henry Hotel Manila - A chic and stylish boutique hotel in Pasay City.
Z Hostel - A popular modern hostel located in the heart of the Makati district.

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

Take home a piece of Manila with you by buying local souvenirs such as:

Barong Tagalog - A traditional Filipino shirt made of pineapple or banana fibers, often worn during formal events.
Wooden Crafts - From hand-carved furniture to trinkets, wooden crafts make for a unique souvenir.
Pearls and Jewelry - Philippine pearls are renowned for their quality, making them an ideal souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Manila

Manila and the Philippines are steeped in rich cultural customs such as:

Bowing or Taking a Bow - Filipinos show respect by bowing, or sometimes taking a whole-body bow to older people or those in higher positions.
Mano Po - This custom is a gelation where younger people grab the right hand of an older person and place it on their forehead, which shows respect and gratitude.
Respect for Elders - Filipinos are taught to show respect and obedience to their elders, as they are regarded as the heads of the family.

Best Time to Visit Manila

The best time to visit Manila is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. Expect a tropical climate with scattered rainfall during the months of June to November, with high chances of typhoons and heavy rains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Manila

Do:

Carry Cash - Many small merchants and vendors do not accept credit or debit cards, so it is wise to carry cash.
Dress Modestly in Religious Sites - When visiting religious sites such as Quiapo Church, it is important to dress modestly to show respect.
Experience the Local Culture - Manila has a rich and vibrant culture - embrace it by trying the local cuisine, attending cultural events or festivals, and learning some basic Filipino phrases.

Don’t:

Flash your Valuables - To avoid becoming a target of theft or pickpocketing, keep your valuables in a secure place and avoid flashing them around.
Dispose of Trash Incorrectly - Filipinos hold a strong belief in keeping their surroundings clean and tidy, so avoid littering and dispose of your trash responsibly.
Forget to Haggle - Haggling is a common practice in markets and some stores in Manila, so make sure to sharpen your bargaining skills to get the best deals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Manila

Like any big city, Manila has its fair share of safety concerns. Some tips to stay safe include:

Avoid Walking Alone at Night - Try to travel in groups or use transportation to get around at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
Plan your Route Ahead - Familiarize yourself with the area and plan your route ahead of time to avoid getting lost.
Take Precautions Against Mosquito Bites - The Philippines is prone to mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, so wear protective clothing and use insect repellent.

Health in Manila

When visiting Manila, it is essential to take precautions for your health:

Drink Safe Water - Tap water is not recommended for drinking, so make sure to drink bottled or purified water.
Take Precautions Against Tropical Diseases - Get vaccinated and take necessary precautions against tropical diseases such as dengue and malaria.
Pack Medications and First Aid Kit - Bring any necessary prescription medications or over-the-counter medications, and pack a basic first aid kit for emergencies.

Getting to Manila: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Manila

Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Manila’s main airport, located in Pasay City, is the busiest and most well-connected airport in the Philippines.

Bus Stations Near Manila

Cubao Bus Terminal - Located in Quezon City, Cubao Bus Terminal operates buses that connect Manila to other parts of Luzon.
Alabang Bus Station - Alabang Bus Station operates buses that connect Manila to Southern Luzon.

Other Options

Philippine National Railways - The Railway connects Manila to nearby provinces such as Laguna and Quezon.

How to Get Around in Manila

Manila is a heavily trafficked city, and navigating it on foot can be challenging. Here are some transportation options to get around Manila:

Jeepneys - Colorfully decorated and ubiquitous in Manila, jeepneys are cheap but can be challenging to use for first-time visitors.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps - Taxis and ride-sharing apps such as Grab are convenient, but be wary of scams and overcharging.
Public Transportation - The LRT and MRT are common modes of public transportation in Manila, connecting the city with other suburbs.

Where to Go Next from Manila: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Manila serves as a gateway to other beautiful destinations in the Philippines. Here are some places to consider for your next adventure:

Batangas - A province south of Manila, Batangas is home to scenic beaches, volcano trekking, and historical landmarks such as Taal Volcano and Taal Heritage Town.
Baguio - A mountainous city in Northern Luzon, Baguio offers cool temperatures, scenic views, and vibrant nightlife.
Palawan - Known as “The Last Ecological Frontier,” Palawan is a province that boasts beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving sites, breathtaking landscapes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Conclusion

Manila offers an exciting mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and history waiting to be explored. With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped for your next visit to the vibrant capital of the Philippines. Don’t forget to embrace the local culture, pack comfortable shoes, and bring a sense of adventure on your journey to Manila.