Explore the walled city of Intramuros filled with historic sites and structures endorsed by the Spanish during their colonial period. Immerse yourself while walking on the cobbled streets and feel the life during the early days of Manila. Check out the ancestral home turned museum of the national hero, Jose Rizal, at Casa Manila.
Experience the tranquility inside Rizal Park, a 60-hectare urban park named after Jose Rizal with its ornamental gardens and sculpted historical pieces. Within walking distance is the National Museum of the Philippines, where collections of the country’s significant artifacts, artworks, and cultural heritage are found.
Visit the oldest church in the Philippines, San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, see the grand display of colonial art and religious artifacts in the attached museum.
Join millions of devotees in Quiapo Church, home of the Black Nazarene, where miracles were believed to have happened. Aside from the church, experience the lively and colorful scene of the Quiapo Market, where you can find a variety of Philippine products from souvenirs to local delicacies.
Visit the Bonifacio Global City where modern shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences can be found. Know about the diverse heritage of the Philippines through The Mind Museum, the first world-class science museum.
Discover the wonders of the Philippines' flora and fauna through the National Museum of Natural History, located in the compound of the National Museum complex. Throwback to the Romantics era at the National Library of the Philippines, with over millions of materials in its vast collection.
Experience the glorious performances of the Philippines’ talented performers and artists from various fields of arts at The Cultural Center of The Philippines (CCP). The CCP houses various theaters like the Main Theater and Little Theater, galleries, and the Philippine Cultural Training Institute.
Travel to Pagsanjan, Laguna, and experience the exhilarating boat ride to the majestic Pagsanjan Falls. Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Falls and savor the local delicacies offered in the area.
Join the locals and enjoy a food and shopping spree at Legazpi Sunday Market that features local and organic products. Afterward, take your retail therapy to the next level at Greenbelt Malls, where you will find local and international fashion retail brands and global restaurants and cafes.
Discover and appreciate the Filipino culture and heritage through the Ayala Museum’s vast collection of art, history, and natural science. Afterward, take a stroll at the nearby Ayala Triangle Gardens and experience the relaxing ambiance and scenic view of the city center.
Experience the Chinese community’s lively culture and history in Chinatown, where authentic Chinese dishes can be found at affordable prices. Visit the Binondo Church, the oldest church in Manila, and admire its ancient and distinct Baroque-style façade.
Experience the breathtaking sunset at Manila Bay while enjoying an array of delightful seafood or watching street performers at the baywalk. Afterward, shop and dine to your heart’s content at the biggest shopping mall in Asia, the Mall of Asia.
Immerse in the prestigious community in Makati, where luxurious hotels, restaurants, high-end fashion brands, and corporate offices gather. Visit the Ayala Commercial Centers, which include Glorietta, Greenbelt, and Ayala Center, offering a world-class shopping and dining experience.
Shop at affordable prices at Divisoria, a vast market area where various goods can be found, from retail to wholesale. Then, see the colorful marine life at Manila Ocean Park, featuring different species, and experience the sea lion and mermaid shows.
End your 15-day immersion by visiting the Antipolo Cathedral, famous for its picturesque view, marking the end of the journey for the annual pilgrimage to the Virgin Mary. Within the area, have a refreshing experience in Hinulugang Taktak, a historical waterfall often recounted in novels and movies.
Consider taking public transportation such as the Light Rail Transit (LRT) or Metro Rail Transit (MRT), which is faster and cost-effective. Applying for a Filipino sim card is recommended to have access to online map applications such as Waze or Google Maps that can provide accurate directions and real-time traffic updates. Taxis and grab cars are also available but can be more expensive than public transportation. The estimated cost of transportation for 15 days is around PHP 3,000 - PHP 5,000.
If you have more time, visit Tagaytay and Batangas to experience nature and beach destinations or travel north to visit the Banaue Rice Terraces and Sagada. If you have less time, prioritize visiting Intramuros, National Museum of the Philippines, and Bonifacio Global City to learn about the city's history and culture. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as tours involve walking and outdoor activities. Be cautious when avoiding pickpockets and street vendors selling low-quality products at high prices.
The main airport in Manila is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which is located in Pasay City, Metro Manila. The airport code is MNL. It is the primary international gateway to the Philippines and is situated around six km from the central district of Manila. You can reach Manila through airport taxis, buses, and train services.