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Manila, Philippines

Destination Guide

Manila

Philippines

Best things to do in Manila

33 curated attractions in Manila, Philippines. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

June - September

Average temp

10°C/50°F

Budget

Budget-friendly

Safety

Very safe

About Manila

Manila, a small town in the United States, is shaped by its proximity to the Flaming Gorge Reservoir and the natural landscapes surrounding it. The scenic beauty draws visitors who want to experience outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. While the town has its cultural elements, such as the National Museum of the Philippines and the historic San Agustin Church, the real star here is the outdoors. The local attractions are scattered and lack a cohesive urban core, which means nature dominates the experience. People come for the views and access to the reservoir, not for a city atmosphere.

Who it's for

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to relax in nature. Not for those seeking a nightlife or extensive public transport options, as you may find yourself needing a car to see much of anything.

Getting around

Public transport: Minimal

  • The town is small enough to explore on foot, but key attractions are spread out
  • Minimal public transport means a car is usually necessary
  • Flaming Gorge Reservoir is about a fifteen-minute drive from downtown
  • The nearest big city is Salt Lake City, roughly a two-hour drive away
Manila American Cemetery

Manila American Cemetery

Cemeteries & tombs
SPACE & TIME CUBE+

SPACE & TIME CUBE+

Entertainment
Manila Baywalk

Manila Baywalk

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church

Churches & cathedrals
Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)

Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)

Theatres & opera houses
Malacañang Palace

Malacañang Palace

Castles & palaces
National Museum of the Philippines

National Museum of the Philippines

History museums
Mall of Asia (MOA)

Mall of Asia (MOA)

Malls & department stores
Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Streets & neighbourhoods
Paco Park

Paco Park

City parks
Ayala Triangle Gardens

Ayala Triangle Gardens

City parks
Manila Bay

Manila Bay

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Intramuros

Intramuros

Old towns & historic quarters
Philippine International Convention Center (PICC)

Philippine International Convention Center (PICC)

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
Rizal Park (Luneta)

Rizal Park (Luneta)

City parks
Roxas Boulevard

Roxas Boulevard

Streets & neighbourhoods
Manila Yacht Club

Manila Yacht Club

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago

Forts & citadels
Quezon Memorial Circle

Quezon Memorial Circle

City parks
Manila Metropolitan Theater

Manila Metropolitan Theater

Theatres & opera houses
Manila Zoo

Manila Zoo

Zoos
Manila Ocean Park

Manila Ocean Park

Aquariums
Manila Cathedral

Manila Cathedral

Churches & cathedrals
Binondo (Chinatown)

Binondo (Chinatown)

Streets & neighbourhoods
Manila City Hall

Manila City Hall

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
Sta. Ana Wharf

Sta. Ana Wharf

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Ayala Museum

Ayala Museum

History museums
Divisoria Market

Divisoria Market

Local & craft markets
Quiapo Church

Quiapo Church

Churches & cathedrals
Coconut Palace

Coconut Palace

Castles & palaces
Holy Cross Church

Holy Cross Church

Churches & cathedrals
University of Santo Tomas (UST)

University of Santo Tomas (UST)

Historic libraries & universities
Greenbelt Mall

Greenbelt Mall

Malls & department stores

Travel Tools

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