Exploring Manila, the capital of the Philippines, over three days offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modernity. This guide is designed to help you navigate through the city’s most significant attractions, providing a balanced experience of its rich heritage and contemporary life.
Day 1: Historical and Cultural Immersion
Morning – Intramuros (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Description: Begin your Manila adventure in Intramuros, the historic walled city from the Spanish colonial period. Visit Fort Santiago, a citadel used by Spanish and American military, and explore San Agustin Church and Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Baroque architecture.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Fort Santiago (PHP 75), San Agustin Museum (PHP 200)
Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
- Enjoy traditional Filipino cuisine at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant located within Intramuros.
Afternoon – National Museum Complex (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
- Description: Spend your afternoon at the National Museum Complex, which includes the National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Anthropology, and National Museum of Natural History. Dive into the Philippines’ rich history, art, and culture.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Free admission
Evening – Manila Baywalk (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
- Description: End your day with a relaxing walk along the Manila Baywalk. Enjoy the famous Manila Bay sunset and maybe even catch some street performers or grab a bite from the local vendors.
- Time Allocation: 2 hours
- Cost: Free
Day 2: Modern Manila and Shopping
Morning – Makati City (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- Description: Experience the modern side of Manila by visiting Makati, the country’s financial hub. Explore the Ayala Museum for its collection of Filipino culture and history, and then enjoy shopping or browsing through the Greenbelt malls.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Ayala Museum (PHP 425), Shopping (varies)
Lunch Break (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
- Dine at the Greenbelt mall, where a variety of restaurants offer both local and international cuisine.
Afternoon – Bonifacio Global City (BGC) (2:30 PM – 5:30 PM)
- Description: Head to BGC, a modern and stylish district known for its outdoor art installations, shopping, and dining options. Don’t miss the chance to visit The Mind Museum for a dose of science and innovation.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: The Mind Museum (PHP 625)
Evening – Poblacion, Makati (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- Description: Explore Poblacion, Makati’s lively entertainment district, known for its trendy bars, unique restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. It’s the perfect spot to experience Manila’s contemporary culture.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Varies
Day 3: Nature and Relaxation
Morning – Rizal Park (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
- Description: Start your day at Rizal Park, one of the largest urban parks in Asia, dedicated to the national hero, José Rizal. Enjoy leisurely walks, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and the National Museum of Natural History nearby.
- Time Allocation: 2 hours
- Cost: Free (Gardens may have minimal fees)
Late Morning to Afternoon – Manila Ocean Park (11:30 AM – 3:30 PM)
- Description: Adjacent to Rizal Park, visit Manila Ocean Park, the country’s first world-class marine theme park and oceanarium. It’s a great experience for families and anyone interested in marine life.
- Time Allocation: 4 hours
- Cost: PHP 590 (basic package)
Late Afternoon – Mall of Asia (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
- Description: Conclude your Manila visit at the SM Mall of Asia, one of the largest malls in the world. Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment options, or simply marvel at the vastness of this shopping complex.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Varies
General Tips:
- Transportation: Manila traffic can be unpredictable; plan extra time for travel between destinations. Consider using the LRT and MRT for faster transit.
- Safety: While Manila is generally safe for tourists, always be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places.
- Weather: Manila is hot and humid year-round, with a rainy season from June to November. Dress accordingly and stay hydrated.
This guide ensures you experience the essence of Manila, capturing its historical depth, cultural richness, and modern vibrancy, all within a three-day visit.
