6 best places to visit in Manila
Last updated on February 10th, 2026.
During a 2-week trip to the Philippines I got to spend a few days in the country's capital.
A city I was keen to explore, I managed to discover some beautiful places to visit in Manila.
The city usually receives (negative) attention for being overcrowded and for its horrendous traffic. But I was determined to see, and report, another side of the Philippine capital.
Signs of improvement
I’ll be the first to say that Manila is overcrowded and the traffic lives up to its bad reputation.
But, signs of improvement are popping up around the city, hinting towards signs of a brighter future.
Development in roads and infrastructure married with a boost in foreign tourism is changing Manila's landscape.
And what the city lacks in its dreadful traffic system, it more than makes up for in its character. Add the exceptional warmth, friendliness and hospitality of the Filipino people and you've a destination with great travel potential.
If you're ready to explore the capital, make a note of these 6 beautiful places to visit in Manila.
6 places to visit in Manila
1. Explore the historic walled city of Intramuros
The mark of the Spanish colonial rule that lasted for over 300 years is still very prevalent around Manila.
You only have to look at the architectural style of churches like San Agustin but also at the street names. Paseo de Roxas in the Makati district area and Villalobos Street in Quiapo are 2 such examples.
However, there's no more compelling architectural symbol of the Spanish rule in Manila, than the walled city of Intramuros.
The city's Spanish roots
Intramuros, meaning 'within the walls' was the seat of government and political power during the time of the Spanish Empire.
The Manila Galleons that sailed for 250 years, brought goods from Intramuros in the Philippines to Acapulco, Mexico.
The walls were built to ward off foreign invasions. Any other towns outside the structure were known as extramuros.
Towards the river is the grand Fort Santiago, the fortress protecting the city. Within the compound, you'll also come across the beautiful Baroque church of San Agustin.
La Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción de María de San Agustín dates back to the 14th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Map: 6 top places to visit in Manila
2. Stop by Manila Cathedral
I can't write a post about Manila, and not mention Manila Cathedral. Built in 1581, it was originally a parish church under the Archdiocese of Mexico.
It's undergone a few renovations, and draws in worshipers and visitors alike. The cathedral's also been the site of 3 Papal visits to the capital.
To see the best of Manila, consider booking a local tour. The people are incredibly friendly, warm and welcoming. It's a good way to spend a few hours.
3. Stroll along Manila Bay
The bay area of Manila gives you an idea of life in the city. Different types of industry, like shipping, tourism and commercial, co-exist in one space.
Manila Bay is mainly known for being an area of economic activity, but it offers visitors so much more. For one, its promenade makes it a popular spot for couples passing by to watch the sun set over the sea.
Look out for the locals who arrive early in the morning to set up their stalls along the promenade. They sell everything from freshly cut mangoes to sodas and potato chips. Many are friendly, helpful, and make the atmosphere that bit more welcoming.
4. Indulge in the local food scene
Manila is one city that's also cottoned on to the trend of fusion-style restaurants.
Filipino cuisine isn't as well known as neighboring countries in the region, so curious foodies will really have a taste experience.
The cuisine has Filipino, Spanish, and American influences, which is evident from the dishes. Take the dish Embutido. It's Spanish in heritage, and is essentially a pork meatloaf with a boiled egg in the middle.
Must-try Manila picks
Mesa Filipino Moderne is one choice that offers fusion dining.
Try their delicious appetizers, like Tawilis with mangga on a spoon (fried fish with mango). You may also want to sample the pomelo salad with latik (coconut milk residue) and salt crusted sea bass.
Abe Restaurant also offers distinctive dishes like mutton adobo (a soy sauce, vinegar and garlic-based sauce) with popped garlic.
For dessert, try the Chocolate Eh Fondue with fried suman. It's glutinous rice wrapped in palm leaves, and is something different from the standard. Filipino desserts are plentiful and with an immense variety that'll satisfy any sweet tooth.
5. Visit the 2 'M's: the malls and the markets
The majority of Filipinos share a fondness for 2 things: food and shopping.
Filipinos may not have the deepest pockets, but this has little bearing on their fondness for the malls.
Shopping malls rule the Manila landscape. From the monstrous Mall of Asia, to the upmarket Greenbelt in the business district of Makati, malls are everywhere.
A little more authentic
I really enjoyed visiting a mall called Market! Market!
Technically it's a shopping mall, but it also has a market stall area which sells regional Filipino produce. It's less garish than the other malls and is also close to Serendra in Bonifacio Global City (BGC).
This developed green area is popular with expat professionals living in Manila. It combines residential living with plenty of bars, restaurants and of course shopping.
6. Discover the all-night bars and clubs
I had the best time partying in Manila. For someone who's not big on nightclubs, nightlife in the capital is seriously good fun, and reasonably priced too.
If nightclubs really aren't your thing, the capital's bar scene is just as lively. The drinks are flowing, the cocktails are potent, and the prices are low.
Manila hotspots
The main areas people tend to flock to include Makati, Bonifacio Global City and Pasay City.
Here, you’ll find the Hard Rock Café and nightclub Black Market. Close by in neighboring Malate is another popular hotspot, Club ZZYZX .
Even if you don't drink alcohol, the bar scene's worth checking out, and the mocktails are also pretty tasty.
Where to stay in Manila
Coming from Europe, I love staying in luxury hotels when visiting South-east Asia. As well as being ridiculously affordable, the quality of a 3-star hotel is closer to 5.
In Manila, you're spoiled for choice when it comes to luxury and boutique hotel accommodation. A few top choices include Edsa Shangri-La, Manila and Fairmont Makati.
However, my personal favorites for location, style and comfort are The Peninsula Manila and City of Dreams - Nobu Hotel Manila.
The 5-star Peninsula offers guests old-school charm in an incredibly comfortable setting.
With rooms ranging from Deluxe to Suites, you won't be disappointed with a few nights here. Be sure to swing by The Peninsula Boutique to try some of the capital's finest patisserie and handmade chocolates.
City of Dreams - Nobu Hotel Manila
Following in the footsteps of its range of excellent Japanese restaurants, City of Dreams - Nobu Hotel Manila is a dream to step into. Which is fitting, seeing as the hotel's full name is 'City of Dreams.'
Naturally, you can expect the same elegance and understated design you associate with the Nobu brand, along with plenty of fine dining.
If you love a spa as much as I do, be sure to book in some time at the Nobu Spa. They also use a range of premium natural products, that'll leave you feeling rejuvenated and full of zen.
How to get around Manila
While the traffic's a nightmare, getting around the city costs very little.
If you want to experience life as a local, hop on board a jeepney. These colorful open-door jeeps are cheap and a unique form of transport you can only find in the Philippines.
The meaning
Some designs reflect the family name, or more commonly, that of a religious nature.
A cross between a jeep and minibus, a short ride will set you around price of PHP7 (£0.10p; $0.02)*.
The big downside to jeepneys for me, is the pollution. With no doors or windows on the vehicle, you get the full force of the Manila fumes.
Try a tricycle
Off the main roads, you'll also see small motorbikes with carriages attached.
These are tricycles, and they take passengers on short distances only — motorway rides are off limits. It costs even less to ride in one, and you're sure to have an authentic experience.
Other alternatives include the bus and the Light Rail Transit System, which only services the Metro Manila area. There are also FX cabs (an air-conditioned less brash version of the jeepney) and the yellow taxi cab.
I left Manila for Boracay with the feeling I'd really enjoyed my time in the city. If the government can clean up the traffic problem, I can see more visitors coming in the future.
What do you think of these places to visit in Manila? Is it somewhere you'd be interested to visit, if just for a few nights? Let me know in the comments.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
Like this post? Pin it!
You Might Also Like
1. The walled city of Intramuros
2. Manila Cathedral
3. Manila Bay
4. The Mall of Asia
5. Luneta Park
6. National Museum of the Philippines
Manila is famous for its Spanish colonial architecture, Manila Bay and its unique street food scene.
I love visiting big Asian cities, but I have not been to Manila yet. Reading your post, I ask myself why? It looks like an amazing city where you can have everything. Interesting sightseeing, good food, and raving night life. I will have to look into it.
It's chaotic at times like other Asian cities but lots of potential 😀
Your photos were absolutely stunning! I would love to go and visit and see all of the gorgeous architecture. Especially the churches and cathedrals.
There are some photogenic spots in the city 🙂
It looks so beautiful out there. I would love to try out all the food for sure. But I would definitely be taking a stroll through the churches. They look amazing.
They really are, and historic too
It looks insanely beautiful over there. I wish it wasn't so far away!
There are some incredible sunsets over the bay!
Philippines is really a great place to visit, especially Manila. And there are lots of hotels and malls that are also worth of visit.
I only managed to see one, and it was humongous!!
Looks so beautiful! I would very much enjoy being there as well. Oh I can't wait to be able to travel again
You and me both!!
Those are amazing photos. I would love to visit one day.
It's not bad for a stopover!
This is absolutely gorgeous and that food looks so amazing!
The food was delicious!
Wow, look at those sights! It looks like you have so much to see and do!
It has potential!
Your pictures are breathtaking! I don't know if I could stand the humidity in Manila.
It was tough I'll be honest. But for a stopover, it's doable 🙂
I would love to go to Manila one day and try riding a tricycle and got to malls and markets. The one thing I dislike about Manila is traffic. Being from Mumbai, I know how tiresome excessive traffic can be.
I won't lie, the traffic here was awful. However, there were still some nice places to visit
I have not been to the Philippines as yet but it certainly helps to find out all the good reasons for me to visit. I have heard about its strong Spanish influence which I find very interesting. I have so many friends from the Philippines living here so I will ask them for additional tips before I go.
It's a beautiful country, and the islands are definitely worth visiting 🙂
I haven't tried lechon from Manila, but my Manila friends always ask lechon from me here in Cebu. haha. But for those who havent been to Manila, I agree all these are a must-try! <3
It was delicious!
I'm not much for bars and clubs but everything else looks absolutely amazing. The cathedral is beautiful!
It's an impressive church
It looks like such a beautiful place to visit. I'd love to see this paradise sometime in my life. Thanks for sharing!
Go for a stopover before visiting the islands 🙂
Okay I am so down, I totally want to check out Manila! Thank you so much for sharing this with all of us!
It's not bad for a day or 2!
This place sounds like a cool place. I love the bus for getting around town
It's a little bit different!
This place looks amazing. I love that you were very detailed on everything.
Thanks Jessica, it's got potential.
To be honest, i've never really done more than pass through manilla on my several visits to the city but next time I'll take a closer look.
Trust me, I understand why. However, if you've to be there a night or 2, these sights are worth seeing.
This looks like a cool place to visit! I'll have to get to Manila one day.
There are some sights to see!
These photos looks awesome... it seems like entire city is captured in these.....Manila Cathedral looks the most attractive place as it is also an worship place..... Thanks for sharing them.... it is much helpful
It's a historic but beautiful church.
Omg, this definitely made my itch to travel more intense! Those photos are beautiful! I can't wait until I can start traveling again after this quarantine lifts!
Thanks Shelly, you and me both!
Thank you for sharing. I'd love to go to Manila someday. My parents have been and loved it!
It's a city with potential 🙂
I love the Paseo de Roxas underpass! Though I’ve missed to check on the Spanish Architectural sites in the area. The food places that you have mentioned are what intrigued me the most. I had a taste of the Poblacion, Makati Gimmick scene last month. Looking forward to the ones in BGC.
I tried some delicious dishes there, especially the lechon!
I like the Philippines, second only to the USA. Thank you for sharing this mini guide about that country 🙂
You're welcome
Its a good list of things to do in Manila. I loved the Architect of Cathedral. Philippines is on my list for long and whenever I go I would prefer the beaches and water activities there.
The beaches are much more beautiful than the capital; just some things to do if you've a stopover
I have always wanted to travel to the The Philippines. I have a bunch of friends who are Filipino and reading your article has made me even more want to go visit them.It’s amazing how much the city has to offer. I’m also someone who’s not big on the partying scene but your experience has made me want to try it out in Manila.
Trust me, neither am I, but the bar scene's a lot of fun!
The urban areas look pretty neat, with all those old Spanish style cathedrals. However, I would rather head to to beaches, for total relaxation. With over 7,000 islands, I am sure it would take quite some time to explore all of them.
I completely agree. Still, if you've a stopover for a night or two, there are interesting places to see.
Truly some stunning sights! I would love to visit one day...I cannot wait until I am able to travel again. Thanks for sharing about your experience!
You're welcome! I truly can't wait for that day to come
I for sure have Manila and the Philippines on my travel bucket list and cannot wait to get there one day. The pictures are gorgeous and it loos like a fabulous vacation spot!
It's definitely got potential, and it has an interesting history 🙂
I think that Philippines is really a beautiful place to have your self-relaxed and just get lost in the beauty of the nature. It is definitely on my bucket list.
Good to know, it's a country with great potential
Omg what a neat place to visit!!! I can only hope to treble to the phillipinese one day
You and me both!
Those adventures look beautiful! Definitely a wonderful addition to the travel list!
Yes, and for destination weddings too!
Oh wow that place looks absolutely amazing. I would love to visit one day. Thanks for sharing!
You're welcome! Thanks for commenting
Manila is so beautiful. We haven't been to the Philippines but we definitely want to go there at some point!
You should! It's a very interesting place to see
Will go out night and have some fun seeing the architecture. Seems alot to be done over there. And thanks for the list.
You're welcome! I hope you visit one day
Manila, Philippines is definitely a nice place to visit. The people are so hospitable and the food are really delicious.
Yes, the people are very sweet and so friendly too
I see so many people going to manila lately. It def looks like a place worth visiting
There's definitely a reason for it!
This looks and sounds amazing! I would love to go here. On my bucket list for sure.
Wonderful to read! Let me know if you ever visit 🙂
The Philippines are in my wishlist! waiting that moment to come!
Perfect! I hope it comes soon!
Wow I bet you had a great time. Makes me want to visit even more now. Just look at the food! How delish 🙂 xo, Suzanne
It's very tasty, but not forgiving on the tummy lol!
Manilla looks like such a great city. It’s definitely on my list of places to visit. I could eat my way through it!
Ha, yes, it's that kind of city for sure
Wow this looks like a beautiful place to visit! My neighbor is originally from the Philippines she always tells me what an amazing place it is 🙂
Aw I'm sure she's not exaggerating either! You have to visit
What a beautiful city to visit. I love seeing the raw beauty in busy cities and finding the hidden gems
Yes, I know exactly what you mean!
What a beautiful place to visit! I hope to visit someday.
Me too, it's definitely a vibrant city!
Great article! I love the way you write about a city, it makes me feel like I'm there! Thanks so much for sharing.
Thanks so much for the compliment, I appreciate it!
Just how beautiful is the city of Manilla??? What a picturesque location for a nice getaway!
It is, and just a little bit different too
I always enjoy your posts and the pictures !! Waow so beautiful, would love to visit one day !
Aw thank you! I appreciate the feedback!
It is so beautiful there! I could spend hours lost in that city. Manila is definitely going on my bucket list.
Wonderful to read, I'm sure you'll enjoy it
Wow! I had no idea it was such an amazing country!! Your photos are beautiful. I will have to add this to my travel list.
You must, it's a fun city to visit!
The gorgeous islands and exotic beaches of the Philippines always grab the limelight. Manila is generally overlooked and overshadowed. Nice to read about the city in this post. Manila comes across as a charming city. The historical architecture is something that really appeals to us.
I agree with you. Manila needs a lot of improvement, and is overcrowded, but there are some hidden spots worth seeing!
I have to say that Manila is very low on my list of places to visit for the very reasons you stated and also because of safety. The horrendous traffic reminds me of Bangkok and Bangkok drove me crazy and I had to get out of there quick smart. I reckon I'd love the food though and affordable luxury accommodation is always good!
Yes, it's somewhere I wouldn't return to in a hurry because of the traffic. Which is a shame as there's a lot of potential to see there.
I've been looking at booking the Phillipines for Christmas so, this will come in really useful. Those jeepney's look such a cool way to travel around.
December is a great time to visit; I was there during that period and really enjoyed it. The weather's pretty amazing too.
Your photos are gorgeous and definitely highlight the city of Manila. I also love that you can experience a 5 star hotel at 3 star prices! Will you be going back to visit anytime soon?
Thanks Shay! I don't think so to be honest. There are incredible islands to see there, so if I go back, it would be to explore more there.
Manila looks amazing, and I agree with you, we shouldn't believe in everything we hear on the news, sometimes they know to show completely different picture of the places. I'm glad you shared this with us. Love the photos ?
Aw thank you! I wouldn't say it's for everyone, but if you look closely enough, there's plenty of beauty around.
I loved this post because Manila is not high on my list, but I have still always wanted to go. Do they call the see wall a Malecon like they do in other countries with a Spanish influence?
I don't think it's called the Malecon, but there's a long wall that I remember by Manila Bay. I have to find out now!
I also visited Manila not long ago on a layover to the islands. I found it super overcrowded and just way too busy. You have a good outline of this to do while you’re there!
Thanks Heather, I did the same! It's nuts, but there are some cool things to do there.
Ok, haha. You sold it to me. It is not a long post, but affordable luxury hotel sound too good. And the crafted busses oh, as an engineer I would love to make a post about them.
You would be in your element I'm sure!
I learned a lot in this blog. I didn’t know about the Spanish rule in the Philippines. The architecture is stunning, especially the Manila Cathedral. Are, I loved the Jeep yes, what fun!
That's great to read! Yes, I loved the cathedral too, and the jeepneys are interesting too!
I've visited Manila several times on work, and have, over a period of time, fallen in love with the city, particularly its food and people. While the traffic is bad, and a few places can feel crowded, I've seen worse. I really like the photos of the historical Intramuros area you've captured. This post brought back some fond memories.
It's a crowded city, and I wouldn't want to spend a long time there. Still, there are some sights of interest to see there.
You found so much more to do in Manila than I did! I think my only picture was of a colorful jeepney and the rest of the time I was recovering from nights out! The San Agustin Church looks like an interesting visit. I do remember the shopping malls were good there too. Did you try a Jollybees?
Haha, they do have a good nightlife there, but there's plenty to do if you know where to go. The church is so old and falling apart almost, just how I like it! I did try a Jollybee burger, but didn't really like it!
Manila looks beautiful. I never thought of visiting this place but reading your post convinces me to see Manila. Nightlife must be fun here. Shopping is also my favorite and I would love to shop here. Spainish architecture also makes Manila very beautiful.
You're quite right. Manila doesn't get a good mention, but it's slowly changing. One to keep an eye on!