Top Things to do in Manila, Philippines

Imagine standing atop a centuries-old fortress wall, the setting sun painting Manila bay in brilliant oranges and purples while the bustline metropolis hums with energy below. That’s Manila for you - a city where Spanish colonial charm collides with gleaming skyscrapers, where street food vendors serve up mouthwatering delicacies next to Michelin-starred restaurants and where every corner tells a story spanning 400 years of fascinating history.

Looking for things to do in Manila, Philippines? You are in for a treat! Whether you are wandering through the cobblestone streets of Intramuros, hunting for bargains in the organized chaos of Divisoria, or sipping sundowners at a rooftop bar overlooking the world’s oldest Chinatown - Manila knows how to keep you entertained.

So, grab your comfortable walking shoes, and let’s explore this city that Anthony Bourdain once called “the most underrated food city in Asia.”

10 Things to Do in Manila

So, are you looking for things to do in Manila? From ancient Spanish Fortresses to thrilling modern attractions, the Philippine capital offers an amazing mix of experiences. Here is your curated guide to the city’s must-do activities -

1. Explore The Walled City of Intramuros

When it comes to essential things to do in Manila, Philippines, exploring Intramuros tops the list. This 16th-century Spanish Fortress city feels like stepping into a time machine. Hop on a bamboo bike tour or join a walking guide to discover Fort Santigo, where national hero Jose Rizal spent his final days. Don't miss San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning baroque architecture and a fascinating museum. For an immersive experience,  dine at Barbara’s housed in a colonial building serving traditional Filipino cuisine with a side of cultural performances.

2. Take a Sunset Cruise on Manila Bay

Among the most interesting things to do in Manila, a sunset cruise offering unparalleled views of the city’s famous golden hour is unbeatable. You need to board a traditional-style boat from the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex and sail past the city’s skyline. Many cruises also include dinner featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies. You will get stunning photos of the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in spectacular colors. The cool evening breeze and live acoustic music create the perfect backdrop for a memorable Manila experience.

3. Experience Thrills at Star City

Located in the Cultural Center Complex, Star City is Manila’s answer to year-round adrenaline rushes. The park features over 30 rides and attractions, including the Star Flyer, which is the country’s highest swing ride; the Viking, which is a massive ship that swings 90 degrees; and the inverted rollercoaster Star Froster. What makes this one of the best adventurous things to do in Manila is that it is a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. This means that you can enjoy the thrills regardless of Manila’s unpredictable weather. Don't miss out on the Snow World attraction, where you can experience winter in the tropical Philippines.

4. Food Crawl Through Binondo

The world’s oldest Chinatown delivers an unforgettable culinary adventure. Join a food tour or create your own path through this delicious wonderland. You can taste traditional hole-in-the-wall favorites like lumpia (spring rolls), mami (noodle soup), and Kuchar dumplings. Visit Dong Bei for their famous dumplings, Cafe Mezzanine for their unique firefighter theme and excellent Chinese cuisine, and New Po Heng for their iconic bicho-bicho (twisted donuts). These narrow streets are packed with temples to add to the authentic experience.

5. Shop at Mall of Asia

For those staying near the Airport near Manila, the Mall of Asia offers retail therapy on a grand scale. One of the world’s largest malls, it features over 800 shops, an IMAX theater, and an Olympic-sized ice skating rink. The mall’s bayside location provides stunning sunset views, especially from the iconic MOA Eye Ferris Wheel. After shopping, enjoy dinner at any of the numerous restaurants offering everything from local Filipino cuisine to international favorites. The weekend fireworks display over Manila Bay makes for a perfect evening finale.

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6. Visit Manila Ocean Park

Located behind the Quirino Grandstand, near Rizal Park, Manila Ocean Park combines education with entertainment. You can walk through the underwater tunnels surrounded by marine life, enjoy interactive shows with sea lions, or try unique experiences like the fish spa. The park’s signature attraction, the Oceanarium, houses over 14,000 marine creatures across 277 species. For the truly adventurous, try their Swim with the Sharks program or the Sea Trek experience, where you can walk underwater while wearing a special helmet.

7. Explore The National Museum Complex

History lovers seeking interesting things to do in Manila should not miss this world-class museum complex. The National Museum of Fine Arts houses Juan Luna’s famous Spoliarium painting, while the National History Museum showcases the Philippines’ incredible biodiversity. The Anthropology Museum tells the story of Filipino people through artifacts and interactive exhibits. Best of all? The entry fee is Free, which makes it the perfect activity for budget travelers. The museums are housed in beautiful historical buildings offering great photo backdrops.

8. Experience Rizal Park

Known locally as Luneta, this park is spread over 58-hectare which makes Manila a green heart and a historical soul. Here, you can watch locals practicing tai chi in the morning, view the changing of guards at the Rizal Monument, or join families picking in the afternoon. The park houses several gardens, which include Chinese gardens and Japanese gardens, as well, perfect for peaceful walks. Don't miss the daily musical fountain show or the Light and Sound show that tells the story of Dr. Jose Rizal, who was the Philippine national hero.

9. Take a Food Tour in Bonifacio Global City

For those looking for things to do near Manila Airport, BGC offers a modern take on Filipino cuisine. This contemporary district hosts some of Manila’s best restaurants, from street food-inspired cafes to fine dining venues. You can join a food tour to sample innovative takes on Filipino classics like ube desserts, sisig, and adobo.

10. Visit Resorts World Manila

Located just across from Terminal 3 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Resorts World Manila is perfect for travelers with limited time. This integrated resort features high-end shopping, international dining options, a casino, and regular theatrical performances at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. The complex also houses several hotels which makes it a convenient base for exploring the city. When you are in this capital city, you cannot miss their regular live entertainment events and seasonal festivals that showcase Filipino culture.

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Best Places to visit in Manila

Beyond the popular tourist spots covered in our things to do, the city also hosts lesser-known but equally fascinating best places to visit in Manila. Here is your guide to the city’s hidden treasures:

1. Paco Park

Once a municipal cemetery during the Spanish colonial period, Paco Park has transformed into a serene circular garden. The park’s unique architecture features thick walls made of adobe stones and a beautiful chapel, St. Pancratius Chapel, which now hosts weddings and classical music concerts. The well-maintained gardens and historic atmosphere make it a perfect escape from the city’s bustle and a favorite spot for local photographers.

2. Malate Church ( Our Lady of Remedies Parish Church)

This baroque-style church showcases different Filipino-Spanish architecture with its intricate facade and ornate interiors. Dating back to 1588 the church has survived numerous natural disasters and wars standing as a testament to Manila’s resilience. The surrounding Malate district offers you a glimpse into the city’s artistic side with its bohemian cafes and art galleries.

3. Metropolitan Museum of Manila

Located in the Bangko Sentral Pilipinas Complex, this museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary Filipino art alongside international exhibitions. The museums' Gold and Pottery Galleries showcase pre-colonial Filipino craftsmanship while rotating exhibitions feature works by emerging local artists.

4. Arroceros Forest Park

Known as Manila’s “Last Lung,” this urban forest park along the Pasig River contains over 3,000 trees and 8,000 ornamental plants. The park serves as a sanctuary for various bird species and provides a refreshing green space in the heart of the city. Walking trails and small meditation areas make it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity.

5. Museo Pambata

While primarily designed for children, this interactive museum offers fascinating insights into Filipino culture and history. The museum features hands-on exhibits about the environment, culture, professionals, and the human body. Its location in a historic building that once housed the Manila Elks Clubs adds architectural interest.

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Best Time To Visit Manila

If you are planning to visit this amazing capital and wondering about when is the best time to visit Manila? Then, you are at the right place! The best time to visit Manila falls between November and February but let’s break this down with some insider tips

• Late November to early December offers a sweet spot - temperatures hover around 26 to 28C with relatively low humidity, and you will beat the Christmas tourist rush that sends hotel pricing soaring.

• January brings the Feast of the Black Nazarene (January 9th) when millions of devotees flood Qaiapo District. While it's a spectacular cultural event, the whole city gets crowded. Early February hosts the Chinese New Year Celebrations in Binondo featuring dragon dances and food festivals - a cultural feast worth timing your visit for.

• You can avoid March to May unless you enjoy extreme heat; temperatures regularly hit 35C with stifling humidity. The metropolis turns into an urban heat island and afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt sightseeing plans.
  
  

Local tip: book your visit for early December to catch the start of Simbang Gabi which is a series of dawn masses leading up to Christmas. The morning air is cool, markets serve traditional holiday delicacies like puto bumbong (purple rice cakes) and the city sparkles with Christmas lights without the peak-season crowds and prices of late December.

Wrapping Up

From the centuries-old stones of Intramuros to the glittering skyline of Makati, the best things to do in Manila are as diverse as the city’s rich history. Pack your sense of adventure, embrace the organized chaos and let Manila’s infectious energy sweep you away. Trust us when we say that beneath the Metropolitan hustle lies a city of warm smiles, incredible flavours and stories waiting to be discovered.

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