Intramuros Travel Guide

Intramuros is a cultural heritage site located in Manila, Philippines, with a rich history that dates back to the Spanish colonization in the 16th century. Read this comprehensive guide to plan your visit to the walled city.


Introduction to Intramuros

Intramuros, which means “within the walls” in Latin, is a cultural heritage site located in Manila, Philippines. The site has a rich history that dates back to the Spanish colonization in the 16th century. The walled city, which was built as a fortress to protect the Spanish colonial government in the Philippines, is now a popular tourist destination that combines historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Intramuros

Intramuros is a magical place that offers a combination of historical landmarks, cultural sites and natural attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Intramuros is home to numerous museums and historic landmarks that will transport you back in time. Here are some of the must-visit sites in the walled city:

  • San Agustin Church
  • The Manila Cathedral
  • Casa Manila Museum
  • The National Museum of the Philippines
  • Fort Santiago
  • Baluarte de San Diego
  • The Rizal Shrine

Natural Attractions of Intramuros: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Intramuros is not just a cultural and historical hub, it is also a place of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions of the walled city:

  • The Pasig River Ferry
  • The bamboo bike tour of Intramuros
  • The Paco Park and Cemetery
  • The Manila Bay Sunset Cruise

Hiking/Biking Routes of Intramuros

Intramuros is a perfect place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The city offers various routes that you can take and enjoy the scenic views that the city has to offer. Some of the popular trails include:

  • Paco Park and Cemetery Loop
  • Parola Loop
  • Intramuros Walls Loop

Best Things to Do in Intramuros: Activities and Tours

Intramuros has a lot of activities and tours to choose from, including:

  • City walking tours
  • Bamboo bike tours
  • Horse-drawn carriage tours
  • Intramuros Light and Sound Show

Week-Long Itinerary for Intramuros

If you are planning to explore Intramuros for a week, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Itinerary
1 San Agustin Church, Casa Manila Museum, and Fort Santiago
2 The National Museum of the Philippines and The Manila Cathedral
3 The Rizal Shrine, Baluarte de San Diego, and Paco Park and Cemetery
4 Pasig River Ferry, The Intramuros Walls Loop, and The Manila Bay Sunset Cruise
5 The Paco Park and Cemetery Loop and City Walking Tour
6 Bamboo Bike Tour and Horse-drawn Carriage Tour
7 Intramuros Light and Sound Show

Food and Drink Scene of Intramuros

Intramuros also has a lot to offer when it comes to food and drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Adobo
  • Pancit
  • Tocino
  • Bibingka
  • Halo-halo

Local Beverages

  • San Miguel Beer
  • Tanduay Rum
  • Buko Juice

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

Intramuros offers various options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the popular places to stay include:

  • The Bayleaf Intramuros
  • White Knight Hotel Intramuros
  • Pension Natividad

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

Intramuros has a lot of souvenir shops where you can buy local products and souvenirs. Some of the must-buy items include:

  • Barong Tagalog
  • Tarsier figurines
  • Jeepney models

Local Culture and Customs of Intramuros

Intramuros has a unique culture and customs that are worth exploring. The locals are known for their friendly and hospitable nature.

Best Time to Visit Intramuros

The best time to visit Intramuros is between November and February when the climate is cooler and drier. However, the city is accessible to tourists all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Intramuros

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when exploring Intramuros:

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches and other religious sites
  • Learn some basic Tagalog phrases and greet locals in their language
  • Respect the locals and their customs

Don’t:

  • Wander off alone in the dark alleys of Intramuros
  • Litter or damage any historical or cultural sites

Safety and Health

Intramuros is generally a safe place to visit. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and ensure your safety.

Safety in Intramuros

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables
  • Be cautious when using ATMs, particularly at night

Health in Intramuros

  • It is advisable to get vaccinated for typhoid and hepatitis A before travelling to the Philippines

Getting to Intramuros: Transportation Options and Logistics

Intramuros is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some of the options to consider:

Airports Near Intramuros

  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport

Bus Stations Near Intramuros

  • Metro Manila Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Taxi

How to Get Around in Intramuros

Getting around Intramuros is easy and convenient. You can hire a bicycle or take a walking tour of the city.

Where to Go Next from Intramuros: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Intramuros is surrounded by various tourist destinations that you can explore. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Rizal Park
  • Manila Ocean Park
  • Corregidor Island
  • Taal Volcano

Conclusion

Intramuros is a cultural hub that offers everything a traveller could ask for - historical landmarks, cultural sites, natural attractions, and delicious local cuisine. Explore this walled city and immerse yourself in rich Philippine history and culture.

Manila Cathedral, facing the main square of Intramuros Manila Cathedral, facing the main square of Intramuros San Agustín Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site San Agustín Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Map of Intramuros and the surrounding area Map of Intramuros and the surrounding area A ''calesa'' parked in front of Manila Cathedral A ''calesa'' parked in front of Manila Cathedral Main gate of Fort Santiago Main gate of Fort Santiago Statue of King Carlos IV of Spain in Plaza de Roma Statue of King Carlos IV of Spain in Plaza de Roma Manila Cathedral (interior) Manila Cathedral (interior) San Agustín Church (interior) San Agustín Church (interior) Casa Manila (courtyard) Casa Manila (courtyard)