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.
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?
You can enjoy a walk on Roxas Boulevard
Visit the National Museum of the Philippines
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?
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Tricycles: These are motorbikes with sidecars and are suitable for short distances
Trains: The Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) systems are efficient in avoiding traffic
Buses: Manila has both regular and air-conditioned buses.
Jeepneys: These colourful, iconic vehicles are a staple of Manila's public transportation system.
Also Read: Spark Your Adventure in Azerbaijan | Almosafer