Planning to visit the Philippines? In this page, I’ve listed the top and 25 best places to go and visit Manila, Philippines. Actually, I made them more than 25 since I added some more after I first published this. They are the updated and latest hot spots in the capital of the country. They are considered as the favorite hangouts in the metro, the best and popular tourist spots in Manila, Philippines, too.
Before you plan your itinerary, you must know the most visited landmarks in Manila because you will be in the place once your plane landed. List all your target attractions prior to your plans to visit the remaining parts of the country such as Cebu, Palawan, Bohol, Boracay and much more. Start your adventure in Manila.
Best Places to Go Visit Manila Philippines
The best places to go and visit Manila, Philippines are easy to reach. If you have maps or related apps installed on your gadgets and phones, you’ll know their directions and information of each tourist attraction easily. Taxis are cheap too so transportation is not a problem.
Many foreigners visit the country for its stunning beaches and hospitable culture. Visiting the Pearl of the Orient is a sure unforgettable experience. Many tourists stay in Manila upon arrival for few more days to explore the heart of Manila, the business district of Makati, Manila Ocean Park, the historical places such as the Rizal Park, Intramuros and the National Museum, one of the biggest Mall in the world (Mall of Asia), the nightlife in the pubs of Eastwood, The Fort and Ortigas.
After Manila, it’s cool to visit the rest of the islands (like Cebu, Bohol, Palawan, Boracay, Vigan and many more) up to the length of your stay.
Rizal Park
Rizal Park or Luneta Park is the most famous landmark in Manila. The country’s national hero and genius, Jose Rizal’s monument stands in the facade of the park across the Roxas Boulevard and the Manila Bay. Many tourists and locals go there every day to have some photos taken in the famous statue and park. No entrance fee in the park so chillax.
Fort Santiago and Intramuros
One of my favorite places to visit in Manila is Fort Santiago, also part of the famous Intramuros. If you love visiting historical places and seeing vintage stuffs, you’ll surely enjoy this place. Fort Santiago was where Jose Rizal spent his last days before his execution. He also had written some of his writings here. Seeing Fort Santiago mirrors the life and culture of the country during the Spanish times and the sixteenth century.
You’ll see here some Rizal’s anecdotes, novels, attire, the room where he was a prisoner, the room where he used to write, his table, his pens, lamps, and yeah I remember seeing a part of Rizal’s spinal bone preserved in the museum there. I think the entrance fee in Fort Santiago and Intramuros cost around 75 pesos. There are also Kalesa or carriage around the area in case you want to tour around riding it. Only 250 for 30 minutes I think. I made a virtual fieldtrip of it in this page.
The National Museum
The National Museum is also an extraordinary place to visit in Manila. Juan Luna’s famous and stunning masterpiece, The Spoliarium will greet you at the entrance. The painting is superb, huge and enigmatic. Of course, that’s only a warm up. Walking through the museum, you’ll see more of Philippines’ archives and treasures. I think it’s free to take pictures, just don’t touch a thing. The entrance fee for groups is much cheaper, for adults it’ll cost you 80 pesos and 25 for children. Regular price for individuals are 100 and 30 for children when not in groups. (Price may increase after I posted this article)
Mall of Asia
Of course, don’t miss going to one of the biggest malls in Asia (yeah dude, not only in the Philippines), the Mall of Asia a.k.a. MOA. The huge mall is owned by the SM supermalls group. Big concerts and events are usually held here. Just recently, the popular Justin Bieber had his first concert in the country in MOA.
Known celebrities and icons also performed here like Beyonce, Rihanna, Mariah Carey, Miley Cyrus, Maroon 5, Bruno Mars, and many more. Fantastic fireworks displays are seen every Saturday night and during some special occasions in MOA. International Pyro Musical Competition is also held every year. Experience the best IMAX theater here as well. Totally one of the best tourists spots and places to visit in Manila.
Manila Ocean Park
This one is one of the most favorite hotspots in the metro. The Manila Ocean Park shows amazing aquatic and marine life in awesome facilities and high technology tools to let children and marine lovers experience the best trip and see other aquatic species. Some activities are also available for visitors – dive and swim with the sharks, fishes and cute adorable creatures into the deep…
Manila Bay or Baywalk
In line with the Manila Ocean Park and the US embassy, is the Manila Bay, usually called as Baywalk, too. Perfect venue to chill and watch the ships, yachts and the sunset.
Star City
Spend the night in the popular amusement park in the heart of Manila, the Star City. With only few hundred of pesos, you’ll have the pass to ride all the rides you can and want. Roller Coasters, Wild River and xtreme fun are available to everyone.
Just across the Star City, another amusement park (Boom na Boom) awaits everyone to add some thrills and adventure. Your night will be totally exciting and magical.
Cultural Center of the Philippines
You can watch plays, concerts, theater arts and other presentations in the Cultural center of the Philippines (CCP) Spend the night watching a concert or music event, CCP is just along Star City and Boom na Boom.
Resorts World Manila
Want more fun and games? Visit some casinos and entertainment clubs in the Resorts World Manila. This elegant place has been developed to compliment the entertainment, leisure, and other events. Republiq, a famous elite club is here too. If you love the Sentosa in Singapore, you’ll love the Resorts World Manila. Maxims and Marriott Hotel are in this area also.
The Malacanang Palace
Why not drop by and visit the Malacanang Palace. It’s where the many ex-presidents of the Philippines lived.
Makati Business District
The business and finance district of the Philippines is Makati. Visit the country’s skyscrapers and famous malls along the streets. The Philippine Stock Exchange, Manila Peninsula, Shangri-la Hotel, Dusit Thani and other high class hotels can be found along the Ayala and Makati avenue. A worldclass residential tower is also here – Trump Tower. Go shopping and visit fashion shops like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Banana Republic, Hermes and many more in Greenbelt and Glorietta. Everything else is in Makati.
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
Turn around the loop and visit The Fort in Bonifacio Gloabal City in Taguig. It’s like Makati, but BGC is a newly developed business and high-class business and residential city. Who knows you’ll love to buy your won condo or unit somewhere here. Be my neighbor. 🙂
Eastwood City, Libis
Have a little Hollywood experience in Eastwood City, Libis. Another elite place in the metro, here you’ll find business and commercial buildings, malls, restaurants, and cozy atmosphere. There’s a place there similar to Hollywood’s stars walk of fame. Check it out.
Churches in Manila
- Manila Cathedral
- Quiapo Church
Hotels and Residential Buildings in Manila
- Manila Hotel
- Shangri-La
- Hotel H2O (just beside Manila Ocean Park)
- Manila Peninsula
- Maxims Hotel
- Marriott Hotel
- Trump Tower at Century City
Restaurants in Manila
- The Red Crab
- Aubergine
- Old Manila (in Manila Peninsula Hotel)
- Restaurants in The Fort, Greenbelt and other business hubs
Nightlife – Best Bars and Clubs in Manila
- Republiq (at Resorts World Manila)
- Hard Rock Café
- Encore Superclub
Shopping Malls
- Greenbelt
- Resorts World Manila
- Eastwood
- SM and Robinsons Malls
- Mall of Asia
- Trump Tower at Century City
Hope you enjoyed the best places to go and visit here in the Philippines. Some from the list are also my favorite hangouts and spots to go in Manila. Stay tuned, subscribe for free to receive newsletters and latest articles from Philpad.
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Hi Fehl,
how are you today. Pwede humingi ng suggestions from you. Me and my daughter will be in Philippines on the 3rd week of June this year. I have 6 other family member that are coming to pick us up from the airport and planning in staying for like a couple of days In Manila. Any suggestion which hotel is affordable for all of us, but I’m sure at least I need two room and hopefully that is close enough to one of the mall/s in Manila. Thank you very much in advance. 🙂
Maricar
Hi Maricar 🙂 I recommend booking an AirBnb that can accommodate 8 people. It’s more affordable and so many to choose from 🙂 Check out https://www.airbnb.com/c/fehld1
Hi, thank you for the information. What are the best restaurants in Ortigas? We will be going to Manila and exactly near Ortigas but I don’t know where to dine, I have foreigners with me so I want to treat them to a nice place. Can you recommend some beautiful restaurants near Ortigas? Thanks!
I recommend you to visit Asia, is magic! And you can find a “motorbikes sharing” website with which you can rent its and so explore Manila city. 😉
hello fehl, when is the best month to visit manila
Any time of the year except June, July and August because those months are usually rainy 🙂
There will be another mixed-used township very soon in Manila near Balintawak Market and Trinoma Mall where you can spend your vacation and relax. It will be called Cloverleaf which consists of residential towers shopping, dining, and healthcare establishments organized in a way to support the urban lifestyle. I’m pretty sure this mall will be an ideal place for travelers since it is highly accessible via public transportation.
I belive the national museum is free now. Also, suggest the tourists to use grab/uber instead of regular taxis.
hi fehl,
nice article , helped a lot.
I am staying near makati ave, and want to go for near by “diving”.
can you guide.
thanks
Hi Fehl,
I am travelling mid of this november and i am coneceiving and currently running my 3rd month .I am gonna stay in makati for 3 months along with my husband.
I would like to know if there are any complications in stay and hows the medical facilities in makati.
Guide me pls.
Hi, nothing to worry. One of the topnotch hospitals in the country are located nearby: Makati Medical Center and St. Luke’s Medical Center in Global City is also just few minutes away
hey, visiting manila for the first time with my family. 3 adults and 4 kids.fro 8 days. would you advise an apartment stay? also fun things for children like roller coaster
I am willing to personally help get people to these places at minimal fees so their safety will not be compromised.
Teri C
will you be my guide in august?
Hi Fehl,
I be visiting Manila in Sept. Would like to know what are the must go places that can be reach by MRT/LRT or nearby to MRT/LRT. Which budget hotel that you recommend that close to MRT/LRT station?
Makati can be reached via MRT (Ayala Station). You’ll see Greenbelt, Ayala Malls, Ayala Museum
Rizal Park, Ocean Park, Intramuros, Fort Santiago, can be reached via LRT (UN station)
Mall of Asia can be reached either MRT or LRT. MRT (Taft Ave.) ride a taxi; LRT (Gil Puyat) ride a taxi or jeep going to MOA
Hi I am from New delhi India I want to visit Philippines specially Manila which month would be better I will be visiting for 15 days
If you don’t like the heat, better go within December – February.
hi! is there an application or something like that about transportation in Manila. Because i don’t know how to go these places
I don’t think there is an apps like in paris (paris metro subway) manila could be easily navigated using taxi, but be careful if you want to explore metro manila be with someone who knows the place otherwise you will be lost. Though language is not a problem because everyone speaks english.
You can use uber or grabcar apps to go around the city
Hi, I will be in Manila for 1 month , Can you please help to provide the list of places to visit in Manila day wise? I have 4 weekends here and what all places I can cover in Manila . I want to cover most of the places you mentioned and I do not want to leave any places. If I go some place to visit so I should cover almost every places nearby and I should not leave any place because of lack of information. Due to this reason only I am asking your help day wise so that I plan accordingly.
Thanks for you help in advance.
Corregidor Island is also one of the places that should be visited when in Manila. The ferry terminal located along SM By The Bay Mall of Asia and the boat ride is just 90 minutes! After the island tour, cap off the day with a romantic dinner cruise along Manila Bay 🙂
Thanks to provide me the information about the Manila. After reading this I can understand that the Manila is the most beautiful places for nightlife , business etc. Thank you
Hi. Can a download your picture and article for project purposes? Thanks.
Hi, sorry this article cannot be re-published
hie fehl ! may i knw d places around manila and las pinas where can we have fun and njymnt like in star city enchanted kingdom and sky ranch ??? can i knw some other excitng places like these to go vth frds… d most exciting places vth riders……
Hi Fehl, can you suggest some theme/amusement parks or any places and establishments in (or near) Manila that would be perfect for company bonding/team building (10 members)? Budget is around P400 per person. I’m thinking Enchanted Kingdom, Mystery Manila, Star City and the like. Sports/outdoor activities and food trips are welcome too! 🙂
Appreciate your response. Thank you!
MOA by the Bay has some available activities for everyone. I guess 400 is not enough for Enchanted and the others so I suggest MOA since everything (food, mall, park, bowling, fireworks etc.) you need is there.
what the enclosion?
I’ve never been to manila. I wish I can visit soon when i got a lot of money .. haha ..
Alam niyo po ba kung saang gate dederetso ang fetchers ng naia 3 passengers?
Hello po. How to get to Intramuros from MOA po? Okay lang ba ang taxi? Hindi ba masyadong mahal?
Yes 8 pesos lang sa jeep
Hello Fehl…
I’m coming to Manila next November and I wish to see Philippines cultural performance. Where do you think I can go for that particular thing? Your blog is very useful and informative. Thank u very much!!
I think nowadays, there are no regular or daily cultural shows in Manila. If you want to see them, visit some festivals from other parts of the Philippines like Sinulog Festival in Cebu (every January), Panagbenga Festival in Baguio (Feb. – March)., MassKara Festival in Bacolod (every October), and Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan (Jan.). A lot of tourists are expecting those festivals every year.
Hey! My mom and I are finally visiting they Philippines once again after 12 years! I was wondering places you would recommend in Manila, or the best hot spots. And I was wondering what the night life was like over there, where would be good places to visit. Do you know any laughing bars, or bars in general to visit?
There are bars like Punchline and Laffline Comedy bar in Timog Ave. QC.
I have been in the Philippines for more than a year now, yet haven’t been to any of the places of attraction..Fehl, thanks for the awesome info… Now on, I will explore the Philippines, all the nice places in Metro Manila and its environs..Thanks a lot
Hey Fred! Those places are only in Manila. There are a lot more beautiful places in the Philippines like the amazing beaches 🙂
hi! just want to ask where to watch a dancing colorful fountain in manila? i juat saw it in the news but forgot the place.
Going to Manila. a for 2 days. Want to Stay nearby Mall of Asia. Please recommend a budget hotel or service apartment. Where r the places nearby that I can visit? Please advise me to make full use of these 2 days. Thank you.
I know Microtel by Wyndham Mall of Asia is very good and cheaper besides it’s so close to MOA
are you on Facebook Fehl..?
Yes, Fehl Dungo is my FB
i have a limited time in manila. so poor am i. i cannot visit all the places mentioned here. but it’s okay. i will come again next time.
Oh you can visit them some other time. Also I recommend you visit Boracay Island 🙂
You havent added American War Memorial which is really a good place to visit. And near by Fort Bonifacio as well….!!
Hi Fehl,
First of all thanks for the awesome information. I am reaching Manila this Sunday afternoon alone on a business trip and I have heard that Monday is a national holiday. My work only starts on Tuesday, so I have one and half days (Half Sunday + Monday) to chill out and see places in Manila.
Which all places would you recommend visiting in these one and half days? Also given that Monday is a national holiday, should I expect tourist destinations like Ocean Park, Star City, Intramuros and other malls to be open?
Thanks!
Hi Rahul! Thank you for the kind words here. Yes, it’s National Heroes Day on Monday. I suggest you start your tour along Roxas Blvd. because Rizal Park is there and other tourist attractions are close to it like Manila Hotel, Intramuros, Ocean Park, and you can also go to Mall of Asia and Resorts World Manila as they are so near. I think Ocean Park, Intramuros, Star City will be open too. Don’t visit Start City too early though, just go there around 5pm
Hey, Thank you for the information. What are the best restaurants in Ortigas? Are you a travel guide? I’m now in Manila…
Hye Fehl.tomorrow i will fly to manila.i’d like to visit exciting entertainment at night.any suggest?
71 Gramercy is the newest club out there. It’s in the tallest building in Makati
Hi…any suggestions on whc mall should i visit in makati or manila? Reasonable outlets etc etc..
I like shopping in Greenbelt Makati. It’s next to Glorietta and SM Makati. Also I like MOA (Mall of Asia) in Roxas Blvd. coz teh outlets are big and wide.
Hi fehl.nice site u got here.very informative and useful.i wanna ask if u do tour guide service to tourist around Manila.the places u mentioned here, i feel wanna go to all the places.but first time coming there it might take some time to explore all the interesting places in time.so i think it would be nice if u can do tour-guide.
Thank you Joy. I don’t do tourguide service but I can be a tourguide for a friend if I’m in Manila for a day maybe.
hi there! i will travel alone to manila end of august, i more into photography thingy. is there any suggestion, any best place for example. obviously i will take public transportation or walk. do you think that safe? or easy to get public transport for example MRT/LRT..
thanks,
Diana
Hi Diana. If you want to see almost of the places above, you can start at Rizal Park. You can take a cab or just ride the LRT (not MRT for this route) and stop by UN Avenue Station. Rizal Park (aka Luneta Park) is walking distance there. Stroll around and you will also see Manila Ocean Park, Baywalk, US Embassy etc. You will also see Manila Hotel. Since those places are along Roxas Boulevard, you can also ride a cab to go to Intramuros and Fort Santiago. Then end your day at the Mall of Asia (the biggest mall in the country and Asia) to chill and shop. By the way, check the taxis meter for your fare because some taxi drivers take advantage of foreigners in asking too much fare. I hope you enjoy your vacay in the Philippines. 🙂 If you need help, just message me or text me anytime. Cheers!
Hi fehl I will be visiting manila in September and I have no clue of the city can I please connect with you on the mail so I can take some guidance from you regarding the same if u can time your email Id , I’d be grateful
You can contact me via this link: https://philpad.com/contact-us/
I personally reply in this email
Hello po… If we go to fort santiago? How can we go from buendia to fort santiago? What transportation?
Honestly, this is just an amazing feature on the best places to visit in Manila and the Philippines. You are lucky to live in a beautiful country. I enjoyed reading this so much. Thank you.
Cathy
Thank you, Cathy. There are more beautiful places to visit in Manila and I’m sure the list will be endless heheh. Looking forward to tour you in Manila someday. There are more beautiful places to visit the whole Philippines too not just Manila. Mwaaaaaaaaaaaaah!