top of page
Writer's pictureAlmosafer

Top 7 Things to Do in Manila 2025 - Attractions and Activities

Updated: 3 days ago

Manila has many interesting and diverse historical attractions such as the National Museum of the Philippines and religious and historical sites such as the Manila Cathedral, which is stunning in its architecture. It also has a captivating energy that encourages you to walk the streets, such as Roxas Boulevard. Enjoy your trip with all the unique and fun things to do in Manila.

Top 7 Things to Do in Manila 2025
Manila Bay

1. Visit Fort Santiago

Explore Fort Santiago, one of Manila's most important historical landmarks, built by the Spanish conquistador to defend the newly created city. A prominent element of the famous walled city of Intramuros, with gardens, fountains, lily ponds, sunny plazas and the Rizal Mausoleum Museum, the fort is a highlight of any Manila city tour.


  • Type of activity: Outdoor

  •  How to Book: On-site or as part of an Intramuros tour 

  • Location: Intramuros, Manila


2. San Agustin Church and Museum

Located in the historic Old Walled City of Manila, the magnificent baroque church of San Agustin is the oldest in the country and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring it is also one of the things to do in Manila as a tourist. Highlights include the tombs of many historical figures - such as conquistadors, statesmen and artists - as well as the neighbouring San Agustin Museum.


  • Type of Activity: Indoor 

  • How to Book: On-site

  • Location: Intramuros, Manila


3. Casa Manila

Located in the historic Old Walled City of Manila, the magnificent baroque church of San Agustin is the oldest in the country and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring it is also one of the things to do in Manila as a tourist. Highlights include the tombs of many historical figures - such as conquistadors, statesmen and artists - as well as the neighbouring San Agustin Museum.


  • Type of Activity: Indoor

  • How to Book: On-site

  • Location: Intramuros, Manila


Recommended for you: Top Things to do in Bangkok


4. Visit Manila Cathedral

Manila Cathedral was originally built in 1571 by the Spanish as a modest wooden structure dedicated to the Virgin Mary, under the name ‘Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception’. Featuring Neo-Romanesque architecture, it serves as the main church of the Archbishop of Manila and is the central seat of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines. In addition to its religious significance, the Cathedral has hosted important spiritual events and is a symbol of national identity and Philippine history.


  • Type of Activity: Indoor

  • Entrance Fees: Free

  • How to Book: No booking required

  • Location: Intramuros, Manila


5. Sunset at Manila Bay

Manila Cathedral was originally built in 1571 by the Spanish as a modest wooden structure dedicated to the Virgin Mary, under the name ‘Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception’. Featuring Neo-Romanesque architecture, it serves as the main church of the Archbishop of Manila and is the central seat of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines. In addition to its religious significance, the Cathedral has hosted important spiritual events and is a symbol of national identity and Philippine history.


  • Type of Activity: Outdoor

  • Entrance Fees: Free

  • How to Book: No booking required

  • Location: Roxas Boulevard, Manila


6. Visit the National Museum of the Philippines

Founded in 1901, the National Museum of the Philippines is a sprawling museum complex and planetarium adjacent to Rizal Park. Dive into the rich artistic, historical and cultural heritage of the Philippines through the museum's vast collections that include fine arts, ethnography, anthropology, archaeology and natural history.


  • Type of Activity: Indoor

  • Entrance Fees: Free

  • How to Book: No booking is necessary for individual visits. For group tours, prior coordination with the museum administration is recommended.

  • Location: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines


7. Take a walk on Roxas Boulevard

One of Manila's most famous streets, Roxas Boulevard runs along the waterfront for most of its length and includes Rizal Park, the historic Manila Hotel and the famous Manila Bay Walk. It is bordered by the vibrant Malate neighbourhood, known for its open-air bars and restaurants. Spectacular sunset views of Manila Bay make Roxas Boulevard a popular early evening destination.


  • Type of Activity: Outdoor

  • Location: Roxas Boulevard, Manila, Philippines


FAQs


Q1: What are the things to do in Manila with kids?

  1. You can enjoy a walk on Roxas Boulevard

  2. Visit the National Museum of the Philippines

  3. Visit Manila Cathedral


Q2: What is the best time of year to visit Manila?

  • (November to January) For those interested in cultural events and festivals especially during the Christmas season

  • (December to May ) This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and outdoor activities.


Q3: How can I get around Manila using public transportation?

  1. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

  2. Tricycles: These are motorbikes with sidecars and are suitable for short distances

  3. Trains: The Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) systems are efficient in avoiding traffic

  4. Buses: Manila has both regular and air-conditioned buses.

  5. Jeepneys: These colourful, iconic vehicles are a staple of Manila's public transportation system.


    Also Read: Spark Your Adventure in Azerbaijan | Almosafer




6 views

Travel Guides

phone.jpg

Available Now

appstore.jpg
google play.jpg
huweie.jpg
barcode (2).png

GET THE ALMOSAFER APP!

Our app has all your hotel needs covered: Secure payment channels, easy 4-step booking process, and sleek user designs. What more could you ask for?

bottom of page