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

Ermita is a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. The area is steeped in history and culture and has a lot to offer visitors. From historical landmarks and museums to natural attractions and outdoor activities, Ermita has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll help you plan your trip to Ermita with a list of top attractions, activities, food, and more.

Introduction to Ermita

Ermita is located in Manila, in Metro Manila, in the Luzon region of the Philippines. The neighborhood is situated near Manila Bay and is home to several important landmarks and institutions, including the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Manila Ocean Park, and the Manila Hotel. Ermita is also a hub for business, commerce, and nightlife in Manila.

List of Places to Visit in Ermita

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ermita is home to several important museums and historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into Philippine history and culture. Here are some of the top attractions:

National Museum of Fine Arts: The National Museum of Fine Arts is home to an extensive collection of Filipino art, including paintings, sculptures, and other visual artworks. The museum also houses works by foreign artists, including Juan Luna’s “Spoliarium,” which is considered to be one of the most iconic works of Philippine art.
Manila Cathedral: The Manila Cathedral is a historical landmark that dates back to the Spanish colonial period. The cathedral has undergone several renovations and reconstructions over the years, but its iconic dome remains a recognizable feature of Manila’s skyline.
Rizal Park: Rizal Park is a vast public park that honors Philippine national hero Jose Rizal. The park is home to several monuments and landmarks, including the Rizal Monument, which features a bronze statue of Rizal on a pedestal.
Intramuros: Intramuros is a walled city that was built during the Spanish colonial period. The city was damaged during World War II but has since been restored to its former glory. Visitors can explore Intramuros on foot or by horse-drawn carriage, known as a kalesa.

Natural Attractions of Ermita: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ermita is not just about museums and historical landmarks. The neighborhood also offers several natural attractions and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top things to do:

Manila Bay Sunset Cruise: Sunset cruises along Manila Bay are a popular tourist activity in Ermita. These cruises offer stunning views of the Manila Bay skyline and the sunset over the water.
Corregidor Island: Corregidor Island is a historic island fortress located in the mouth of Manila Bay. The island played a vital role in the defense of Manila during World War II and is now a popular tourist destination for history buffs.
Mount Samat National Shrine: Mount Samat National Shrine is a historical monument that honors Filipino soldiers who fought in World War II. The shrine is located on a hill overlooking Bataan and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ermita

Ermita is not known for hiking or biking, but there are several great destinations nearby. Here are some of the top hiking and biking destinations near Ermita:

Mount Pinatubo: Mount Pinatubo is a popular hiking destination located about 100 km north of Ermita. The hike to the summit takes about 3-4 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
La Mesa Nature Reserve: La Mesa Nature Reserve is a vast park located north of Manila. The park features several hiking and biking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Best Things to Do in Ermita: Activities and Tours

In addition to museums, historical landmarks, and natural attractions, Ermita also offers several activities and tours. Here are some of the top things to do in Ermita:

Manila Ocean Park: Manila Ocean Park is a popular aquarium and marine theme park located in Ermita. The park features several exhibits and attractions, including a shark and ray encounter, a marine life show, and a penguin exhibit.
Binondo Food Tour: Binondo is Manila’s Chinatown and is known for its excellent food. A Binondo food tour is a great way to sample local delicacies and learn about Filipino-Chinese culture.
Walking Tour of Intramuros: A walking tour of Intramuros is a great way to explore the walled city and learn about its history and culture. Several tour companies offer guided tours of the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ermita

If you’re planning to spend a week in Ermita, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: National Museum of Fine Arts, Manila Cathedral, Rizal Park
Day 2: Intramuros, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church
Day 3: Manila Ocean Park, Quirino Grandstand
Day 4: Binondo Food Tour, Escolta Street
Day 5: Corregidor Island Day Trip
Day 6: Mount Samat National Shrine, Bataan
Day 7: Manila Bay Sunset Cruise, Roxas Boulevard

Food and Drink Scene of Ermita

Ermita offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects the multicultural influences of the area. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Adobo: Adobo is a classic Filipino dish made with meat (usually pork or chicken) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices. It is often served with rice and is a staple of Filipino cuisine.
Sinigang: Sinigang is a popular Filipino soup made with meat (usually pork or fish), vegetables, and tamarind broth. It is sour and savory and is often served with rice.
Lumpia: Lumpia is a Filipino version of the spring rolls. These crispy rolls are filled with meat, vegetables, or seafood and are often served as an appetizer.

Local Beverages

San Miguel Beer: San Miguel Beer is the most famous beer in the Philippines. It is a light lager that pairs well with Filipino cuisine.
Taho: Taho is a sweet and creamy soy milk beverage that is often sold by street vendors in the morning. It is a popular breakfast food in the Philippines.
Calamansi Juice: Calamansi Juice is a refreshing citrus drink made with calamansi, a small citrus fruit that is native to the Philippines. It is often served cold and is a great thirst quencher in the hot and humid weather.

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

Ermita offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the top choices:

Manila Hotel: The Manila Hotel is a luxurious hotel that is known for its historic charm and elegant decor. The hotel features several restaurants, a swimming pool, and a spa.
Red Planet Manila Bay: Red Planet Manila Bay is a budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. The hotel is conveniently located near several top attractions in Ermita.
Melbourne Suites: Melbourne Suites is a boutique hotel that offers modern rooms and amenities. The hotel features a rooftop pool and a fitness center.

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

Ermita offers several options for shopping, including malls, markets, and specialty shops. Here are some of the best places to shop for souvenirs and local products:

Robinsons Place Manila: Robinsons Place Manila is a modern shopping mall that offers several international and local brands. The mall features several restaurants, cinemas, and a supermarket.
168 Shopping Mall: 168 Shopping Mall is a popular mall that is known for its affordable prices. The mall features several shops that sell clothes, accessories, and gadgets.
Quiapo Market: Quiapo Market is a bustling market that sells everything from clothes to fruits and vegetables. The market is known for its affordable prices and is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local products.

Local Culture and Customs of Ermita

Ermita is a multicultural neighborhood that is home to several ethnic communities, including Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino. The area is known for its lively festivals and celebrations, including the Feast of the Black Nazarene and the Chinese New Year.

Best Time to Visit Ermita

The best time to visit Ermita is between November and April when the weather is dry and pleasant. The months of December and January are peak tourist season, so expect prices to be higher and crowds to be larger.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ermita

Do:

Explore Intramuros on foot: Intramuros is best explored on foot or by kalesa. This will allow you to see more of the area and appreciate its history and culture.
Try local dishes: Filipino cuisine is diverse and flavorful. Make sure to try some of the local dishes, including adobo and sinigang.
Take a sunset cruise along Manila Bay: A sunset cruise along Manila Bay offers stunning views of the city and is a great way to relax and unwind.

Don’t:

Wear revealing clothing in religious sites: When visiting religious sites, such as the Manila Cathedral or San Agustin Church, make sure to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing.
Drink tap water: Tap water in the Philippines is not safe for drinking. Make sure to drink bottled water or water that has been boiled.
Forget to haggle: Haggling is common in markets and small shops in the Philippines. Make sure to haggle to get the best price for your purchases.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ermita

Ermita is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always important to take common-sense precautions. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

Stay vigilant: Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Avoid traveling alone at night: It’s always safer to travel in a group at night, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.
Book taxis from reputable companies: Book taxis from reputable companies and never accept rides from strangers.

Health in Ermita

Ermita is a relatively clean and hygienic area, but it’s still important to take precautions to avoid getting sick. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy:

Drink bottled water: Tap water in the Philippines is not safe for drinking. Make sure to drink bottled water or water that has been boiled.
Wear mosquito repellent: Mosquitoes are common in the Philippines and can spread diseases such as dengue fever. Make sure to wear mosquito repellent, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season.
Wash your hands regularly: Washing your hands regularly is an effective way to avoid getting sick.

Getting to Ermita: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ermita is located in the heart of Manila and is easy to access by several modes of transportation. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Ermita

Manila International Airport (MNL): Manila International Airport is the main airport in the Philippines and is located about 7 km north of Ermita. The airport is served by several international and domestic airlines.

Bus Stations Near Ermita

Pasay Bus Terminal: Pasay Bus Terminal is located about 4 km north of Ermita and is the main bus terminal in Manila. The terminal serves several destinations in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Cubao Bus Terminal: Cubao Bus Terminal is located about 12 km north of Ermita and is another major bus terminal in Manila. The terminal serves several destinations in Luzon.

Other Options

Jeepneys: Jeepneys are a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines. They are cheap and are a great way to get around Ermita and other parts of Manila.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Ermita and are a safe and convenient way to get around the area.
Grab: Grab is a ride-hailing app that is popular in the Philippines. It’s a convenient and reliable way to get around Manila.

How to Get Around in Ermita

Ermita is a relatively small and walkable neighborhood, but there are several other modes of transportation available, including jeepneys, taxis, and Grab.

Where to Go Next from Ermita: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ermita is a great base for exploring other parts of Manila and the Philippines. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

Makati: Makati is a bustling commercial and financial district that is known for its upscale shopping malls, restaurants, and nightlife. It is located about 6 km north of Ermita.
Tagaytay: Tagaytay is a popular tourist destination located about 50 km south of Manila. The area is known for its scenic views of Taal Lake and Volcano.
Batangas: Batangas is a province located south of Manila that is known for its beaches, diving spots, and historical landmarks.

Conclusion

Ermita, Manila, is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historical landmarks or trying local cuisine and experiencing the nightlife, Ermita has it all. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this exciting part of Manila.

Ermita Image Gallery

Rizal Park and the Ermita skyline

The Rizal Monument in Rizal Park (Luneta)

The Department of Tourism building (Rizal Park, Manila)

Manila Central Post Office Building