manila half day tour with hotel pick up

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Manila Half Day Tour with Hotel Pick-up

Overall rating.

Overall is a good experience, meet new people and the tour guide is friendly.

Very good program

The booking was easy. The pickup was smooth and efficient. The company van was comfortable and spacious. Except for a slight confusion at Fairmont Hotel, the trip went very well. The guide was very good. She knew the places well and was also funny!! The last part of the tour in and around the old walled city was the best! All in all a very nice way to spend half a day in Manila.

Tour guide and driver very nice. Program boring.

Agency should do better training tour guide to provide more context and significance about the sightseeing attractions. The way it is now, they take you to a site, tell you the name of the place and very short intro of what it is, and let you walk around. So you don’t really learn much. The staff are very nice and professional though.

We had a really lovely afternoon, our guide was very enthusiastic and funny. A lot of knowledge of Manila, would highly recommend the tour to anyone

I only had a few hours to see a bit of Manila, and this worked great. Got to see Intramuros (which was the major place I wanted to see) but the cemetery was also rather pretty.

An Efficient Way to See Manila's Best Sights

I got to see the American Cemetery and Memorial, Rizal Park, Fort Santiago and the Manila Cathedral in half a day. The guide's English was also pretty easy to understand. (Translated by VELTRA.com)

With only a few free hours in Manila to explore a bit more of the city, this was a great compact tour. Intramuros was very interesting, and the American Cemetary was much prettier than I expected. It was also kinda cool to zip around the main streets, to get a feel for just how large the city is!

it really showed how vast a city Manilla is whilst only seeing a small portion. Guide was very knowledgeable

Tour guide is experiencesnDrives tried his best to serve and take care the guest

We were lucky to get a private tour since nobody else signed up and the minimum is 2. So we got to ask the guide all the questions we want and he was very knowledgeable. It would have been nice if he joined us inside Fort Bonifacio though.

very copoerative in my pick up

A very nice and informative tour and we highly recommend it!

Nice tour guide! Taught us everything about Manila and it´s history. A tour to go on an incredible ride! Widely rommend!

It was very interesting and comfortable to see the whole city in couple of hours!

the whole trip was good. the only dissapointing this was that there are clearly open and cl;o sinhg times for the churches, that the guide should know yet he took us to San Agustin when it was closing. also the cathedral is closed at present. As local tour gudes this should be known and then told to the participants,. it was not.

The tour from start to finish was highly enjoyed. We simply loved the way Richard (our tour guide) introduced the places as we get there and added history with a twist of his own humor that made the experience a wholesome one. I will definitely go on another tour with City Discovery and would highly recommend CD to my friends at home. Keep it up Richard! You're knowledge of the places in the tour is remarkably outsanding!!

I join Manila city tour during December 2015. the tour was very nice. Tour guide and the driver was very polite to us. Group tour only 6-7 people not too many. We visit many interesting place. Next time if I visit Manila I will try another trip for this company. Great!!!

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• Manila Tours
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Top Manila Half-day Tours

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Immerse yourself in Manilas past and present as you travel by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle through the City of Makati and on to Old Manila. Step back in time as you stroll t...

Explore Old Manila on this private half-day tour. Visit famous highlights such as Rizal park, St. Agustin Church, among others. This tour is perfect to see the old city's highlight...

See the main highlights of Manila on this half-day private city tour. Hotel pickup and guide services are included as you venture out and see the famous American Cemetery, St Agust...

Explore Old Manila on this private half-day tour! After pickup from your Metro Manila/Makati hotel, you and your party will visit famous highlights such as Rizal park, St. Agustin ...

Join travelers from around the world in exploring Manila with an English-speaking tour guide. Visit the city's most popular attractions and experience a bit of local culture.

Spend a day out on the clear waters of the beautiful islands of Boracay in this budget-friendly tour. This is perfect for anyone wanting to explore the beaches and see different ki...

See the main highlights of Manila on this half-day private city tour. Venture out and see the famous American Cemetery, St Agustin Church and other famous city landmarks.

Going around Manila is already an adventure in itself but Filipinos are known to be diverse, reflecting other cultures that were adapted from the countrys colonizers.  The tou...

See the main highlights of Manila with other tourists on this half-day private city tour. Venture out and see the famous American Cemetery, St Agustin Church and other famous city ...

Explore the City of Manila and discovery what's with the City of the old time. Join travelers from around the world in exploring Manila with an English-speaking tour guide. Visit t...

Visit some of the most picturesque locations in Manila and fill your Instagram feed with postcard-worthy photos of you! The first stop is to Venice Grand Canal, popularly known as ...

Intramuros was the heart of the archipelago for hundreds of years, here we begin a crash course in Philippine history.A glimpse at the Philippines' colonial past and how the events...

See the main highlights of Manila by Calesa. Venture out and see St Agustin Church and other famous city landmarks.

This is a half-day historical tour of Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. Our tour is in storytelling format that talks about the important events that shaped the Philippines. I...

Get a chance to learn Philippine history, culture and can be flexible in arranging special requests (slum visits, walking at local markets)

Retrace Anthony Bourdains footsteps on his first gastronomic journey into country and discover the variety of street food that made this famous American chef and international TV p...

This walking tour takes you to Intramuros, the historic walled city within the modern City of Manila build by the Spanish in 1571.

Visit some of the popular and interesting museums of the Philippines and observe the artistic styles and craftsmanship of modern artists.

A tour of Intramuros can easily be done individually, but for an immersive experience, having a professional guide is an advantage. We are a team of Department of Tourism Trained G...

Travelers will learn a lot about the culture and the history of the Philippines and they will experience the hospitality of the filipino.

Share your tour with other guest around the world as you experience the Culture of Philippines with servings of special delicacies from every province in the country.

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About manila Half-day Tours

Traverse the city of Manila with these wholesome Half-day tours in Manila. What makes these Half-day tours in Manila more interesting are the helpful guides, who walk you through the details of the place adding value to your visit.

Some of the Manila Half-day tours have a dining option available. The city has a plethora of activities and on your visit, don't forget to explore the best things to do in Manila , even if you are visiting for a short-span.

Who would prefer rock-solid time schedules on vacation? Keeping this in mind, Half-day tours are designed with flexible timings. These tours mostly cover the transfer between your hotel and the starting point of the tour.

Half-day tours are crafted to suit all travel plans are hence are available in multiple options like small group tours and private tours. All the tours emphasize on the safety and convenience of the passengers.

Another suggested similar tours for Manila are bus & minivan tours , photography tours . Here's a list of the best Manila Half-day tours.

The tickets for Manila Half-day tours are filling fast, book early! Treat yourself with the best Manila Vacation Packages on the web! Make it flawless, for consolidating your travel information, use Manila trip planner to create your plan.

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Things to Do

Half-day old and new manila tour with transfer services.

What You'll Experience

Revisit Philippine history as you join this fully guided tour of Manila’s past and present. This sightseeing tour of Manila starts at the American Cemetery and Memorial, a resting place of the soldiers who lost their lives during the WWII. Continue to the Old City of Manila as you drive via the scenic Roxas Boulevard, one of the best locations to see the beautiful Manila Bay sunset. This tour stops at Luneta Park (also called Rizal Park), one of the most significant tourist spots located in the heart of Manila. The next place to visit is Intramuros, known as the “Walled City”. Inside the city fortress are ancient walls, church ruins, and other relics of the Spanish Conquistadors era. Pass through the cobblestone streets to San Agustin Church, a Roman Catholic Church located inside the historic Walled City of Intramuros in Manila. End your tour at Fort Santiago, one of the oldest Hispanic stone fortresses in the Philippines.

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Manila Half Day City Tour - SPECIAL DEAL

• Entrance fees to Intramuros (PHP75)
• Join in tour
• Dept. of Tourism Accredited English speaking guide
• Hotel pick up and drop off
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Entry/Admission - Intramuros
• Gratuities (recommended)
• Roundtrip transfers are limited to the following areas in Manila: Makati, Ortigas and Manila Bay Areas Other areas for transfers will incur additional charges of US$10 per person to be paid directly to the operator: Quezon City and Alabang Please arrive in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before scheduled departure
• Infants must sit on laps
• Near public transportation
• Stroller accessible
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• Child ticket: Age 2-11
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Children under the age of 2 are free of charge
• Other areas for transfers will incur additional charges of US$10 per person to be paid directly to the operator: Quezon City and Alabang
• Roundtrip transfers are limited to the following areas in Manila: Makati, Ortigas and Manila Bay Areas
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travellers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Asia Advisor by Asni Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 2 Landmark Makati Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 3 Manila American Cemetery and Memorial Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 4 Intramuros Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 5 Fort Santiago Stop: 45 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

More to explore in Luzon

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Manila Half Day City Tour - SPECIAL DEAL - with unbiased reviews

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Tagaytay Full Day Tour from Manila with Hotel Pick-Up - Get Local Tour

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Tagaytay Full Day Tour from Manila with Hotel Pick-Up

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Description

Drive up to Tagaytay City and enjoy panoramic views of the Taal Volcano. See the world-famous 19th-century bamboo organ in Las Pinas & observe the assembly of the country's iconic "Jeepney". Complete the experience with a taste of Filipino cuisines!

Cancellation Policy

• Any cancellations made after 09:00 local time, 1 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.

Activity Detail

Pricing details.

• General admission (all attractions included)
• Transportation fee
• English-speaking guide

Min/Max Quantity To Book

• Max Qty: 10 (Maximum tickets can be booked)

Start Timings

Check in/pickup location details.

• Pick-up times are approximate. You will receive a precise pick-up time upon calling to reconfirm your tour 24 hours before departure. Please be ready at the lobby of your hotel at least 20 minutes prior to the scheduled pick-up time. Approximate pick-up times: Makati Area Hotels : 08:30 to 08:45 Manila Bay Hotels/Taguig/Ortigas Area Hotels : 08:00 to 08:15

Restrictions

• Children must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Additional Notes

• Drinks are not included in the tour fee.

Requirement(s) - other

• Please register your accommodation information at the time of booking.
• Precise pick-up time will be given upon reconfirmation so make sure to call the activity provider 24 hours before your activity. Your voucher has the necessary contact information listed.

Contact Details

Supplier contact details, local contact details, emergency contact details.

You will receive an email containing a link allowing you to reset your password to a new preferred one.

MANILA TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

It’s easy to dismiss Manila as a tourist destination. Most travelers see it only as a jump-off point to the country’s stunning islands. Outsiders may find it inexplicable, but I love Manila. It’s not perfect — far from it — but it is my home. It has been for 15 years now. Even when most of my friends have moved on to other places, I stay. Even now that I work online and I can choose to be anywhere else, I stay . Why? Because there’s much to love about Manila and its surrounding provinces.

Sure, Metro Manila is big, dense, and crazy. Just when you have just started exploring, you get lost in the crowd, choke in the pollution, or drown in her constant nagging. But those who make it past her sins are rewarded with an opportunity to appreciate her virtues. So here’s a travel guide to help you get close and personal with this underrated city.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING MANILA

Manila is the capital of the Philippines. But it is just one of the many cities that make up the National Capital Region , which is more commonly called Metro Manila . Outside this hub, what people refer to when they say “Manila” isn’t just Manila City but the region as a whole.

Metro Manila is composed of 16 individual cities and one municipality. It is the political, economic, academic and transportation center of the country. Its registered population is at 12 million, but the reality is, because many workers from surrounding provinces also study or work here, there are way more people moving around at any given time. The problem is, there is no reliable transportation system in place. This is a big problem.

Metro Manila is vast, and there is so much to see in many of its corners. However, getting from point A to B often proves challenging if you don’t know your way around. But what it lacks in this aspect, it makes up for with its people. Like most Filipinos, Manila residents are friendly, helpful, and hospitable. Language barrier isn’t a concern because almost everyone understands and speaks English.

Manila has been trading with the Chinese and Indians way before Western colonization. Because of its strategic location, it has been invaded many times: by the Spaniards, the British, the Americans, and the Japanese. It became the most heavily destroyed city after World War II, next only to Warsaw. Today, influences from all these groups are still visible. The city is still predominantly Roman Catholic, which is Spain’s doing. Chinese and Indian elements are engraved in the language and cuisine. Give yourself a minute here and you’ll find that the American influence is all around, from the educational system to pop culture.

Here’s more info about Manila:

• Language : Tagalog and English are the most widely spoken.
• Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time). Same time as Singapore and Malaysia; one hour behind Japan.
• Currency : Philippine Peso (PHP, ₱). PHP100 = USD 2, EUR 1.75, SGD 2.75, MYR 8.25, IDR 28,200 (as of March 2020).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Many restaurants, hotels, and stores accept credit cards, but public transportation and smaller establishments accept only cash.

WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA

Best area to stay in manila.

As mentioned earlier, Metro Manila is huge! And key attractions are a bit far apart, which makes it even harder to choose where to stay.

But let’s narrow it down to four ideal options:

• Manila , the capital city and seat of government. It’s where historic sites, like Intramuros, can be found. Most cheap accommodations are concentrated in Malate and Ermita areas.
• Makati , where the central business district is located. Makati is always my top recommendation to those traveling to Manila for the first time. It’s close to the airport and is not too far from Manila’s historical core. Its streets are lined with awesome dining selections, from fancy restaurants to weekend markets. Its mall strips make it a great shopping destination, too. And best of all, a wide array of accommodations, from hostels to luxury hotels.
• Mall of Asia and Bay Area , along Manila Bay and near the airport.
• Bonifacio Global City , another business district in Taguig.

Most affordable non-BnB accommodations, however, are in Makati and Manila. Although there are a few exceptions, the Mall of Asia area and Bonifacio Global City are generally pricey.

If I were to pick a specific area, I would say Poblacion in Makati would be great for backpackers and budget travelers. A backpacking culture is also starting to flourish here, near the streets of Burgos/Jupiter/Kalayaan. Lots of lodging and dining options. And drinking options too. Haha. I always find myself in this area for the booze and food.

Best Budget Hotels in Metro Manila

• Hotel Durban (Makati). Check Rates and Availability Here
• OYO 103 Artina Suites Hotel (Makati). Check Rates and Availability Here
• Red Planet Makati . Check Rates and Availability Here
• Red Planet Amorsolo . Check Rates and Availability Here
• Rothman Hotel (Manila). Check Rates and Availability Here
• Red Planet Binondo . Check Rates and Availability Here
• Regency Grand Suites . Check Rates and Availability Here
• Oasis Paco Park Hotel . Check Rates and Availability Here

Best Hostels in Metro Manila

• Z Hostel (Makati). Check Rates and Availability Here
• Lokal Hostel (Makati). Check Rates and Availability Here
• Tambayan Capsule Hostel & Bar (Malate, Manila). Check Rates and Availability Here
• Urban Hostel Makati . Check Rates and Availability Here

Search for more Metro Manila Hotels!

How to get to manila.

Manila has one busy airport — the Ninoy Aquino International Airport , more commonly called NAIA (Nah-eeh-yah). Almost every commercial airport in the Philippines is directly connected to NAIA, which is why even when your destination is the islands, you’re most probably still gonna find yourself in Manila.

NAIA has four commercial passenger terminals:

• NAIA Terminal 1 . Used by foreign carriers except All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, KLM, and Singapore Airlines. A few Philippine Airlines (PAL) flights also use this.
• NAIA Terminal 2 . Used exclusively by Philippine Airlines and PAL Express. (Note that some PAL/PAL Express flights operate in other terminals too.)
• NAIA Terminal 3 . Used by Cebu Pacific Air (most flights), AirAsia (international), All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific, Delta Air, Emirates, KLM, and Singapore Airlines. PAL Express flights operate here too. Some Cebu Pacific flights also use Terminal 4.
• NAIA Terminal 4 . aka Domestic Terminal. Air Asia (domestic), Skyjet, and a few Cebu Pacific flights use this terminal.

HOW TO GET FROM NAIA TO CITY CENTER

“City center” isn’t really the best phrase for this because the airport is also in the city center. Your points of interest, however, are most likely in Makati and Manila City.

To get out of the airport, you have plenty of options: taxis, buses, and Uber/Grab. You might also be approached by those offering private transfer services, but the rates are so infuriatingly high, I won’t even bother.

The past couple of years saw the launch of P2P buses. Genesis Transport operates the buses to Clark (via Resorts World and Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas) and UBE Express runs the rest. Here are the routes, fares, and operating hours.

There are four routes that are clearly illustrated on this map.

Operating Hours:

• NAIA Terminal 1 : 8am-11pm, 30 mins interval
• NAIA Terminal 2 : 5am-11pm, 30 mins interval
• NAIA Terminal 3 , available 24 hours, 30 mins interval

The fare is fixed at P150 ($3) .

If you’re headed to Clark, ride the Genesis P2P Bus. Fare: P350. More info about that here: Manila-Clark P2P Bus Schedule

NAIA has allowed Grab vehicles to pick up passengers within the airport vicinity. If you’re a group or your hotel/destination is not anywhere close to any P2P stop, this is a good option. This has been a reliable transportation option for many travelers and locals alike. Although there’s still price surge every now and then, these apps are generally safe and convenient.

Without the price surge/traffic (early morning or around noon), expect to pay between P130 and P150 if your destination is in Makati or Mandaluyong. But if there is surge, it should be around P250 , unless the traffic is on a standstill, which can push the price even higher.

There are three types of taxis operating around the airport:

• Airport Taxi . These are the yellow cabs that you’ll see immediately after exiting any of the terminals. Hard to miss. These are a bit pricier than the regular white cabs, but generally in better condition. Flag-down rate is P70, plus P4 every 300 meters. If your hotel is in Makati, the could would probably be P200-300 ($4-6). If you’re going much farther, say Quezon City, it will set you back around P450 ($9).
• Regular Taxi . The white ones. Flag-down rate: P40, plus P3.50 every 300m and every 2-minute waiting time. Many of the taxi units roaming Manila have seen better days, and drivers do not have a sterling reputation. Because of the traffic conditions, many cab drivers would try to ask for more pesos on top of the meter.
• Fixed Rate Taxi (Coupon Taxi) . I haven’t tried this because every time I consider this, I get enraged at the prices. Maybe there are situations wherein it makes sense but I don’t know yet, so let’s pretend this isn’t even an option.

HOW TO GET AROUND MANILA

Taking public transportation within Metro Manila is unpredictable, to say the least. For first-timers, commuting requires a great deal of planning.  You have plenty of options — MRT, LRT, cab, bus, jeepney — but none of them guarantee a hassle-free journey. Manila has so much to offer to tourists, but the problem is getting from one destination to another. The simple truth is, Manila’s transportation system is highly disorganized. Except for outbound buses, none of these options work around a fixed, reliable schedule.

Here’s the thing, if it’s your first time in Manila and you’re spending only a few days, taking public transportation might not be a good idea. It’s complicated and it might eat up much of your time and derail your plans. If you’re on tight schedule or you’re a group of two or more, the most comfortable and convenient options are commuter apps like Uber and Grab . Locals have relied on these two apps too.

But if you insist on taking public transpo, I previously wrote a guide to that here:

✅ GETTING AROUND MANILA BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

PLACES TO VISIT IN MANILA

Here are some of the tourist spots around Metro Manila that are worth your time. Many of these can be explored on your own so I provided links to DIY guides. But if you want to join group tours instead, I also added links to Klook tours.

If you have a local friend who is very familiar with the history of these sites, the most cost-efficient way is to have them tag along and do the tour on your own. But if you don’t, joining tours is great too. Either way, I highly recommend that you have someone explaining to you the background and significance of each attraction so you won’t be just looking at buildings that mean nothing to you. Local insight could make all the difference.

If Manila had a soul, you’d find it hiding inside any ancient structure in Intramuros. The historic core of the capital, it was built in 1571, making it the oldest district in the city. It has survived waves of foreign invasions, a world war, and even booming, unrelenting threats of overdevelopment. But it continues to stand silently amidst the roaring metropolis outside its fortified walls.

You can explore Intramuros on your own, but if you want to appreciate it better, it’s best to join a guided tour. Klook has two Intramuros offers: a walking tour and a bamboo bicycle tour.

Binondo (Manila Chinatown)

Almost every major city in the world has a Chinatown. But the one in Binondo is worth a visit for two reasons. First, it is the first Chinatown in the world . It was established in 1594 by Governor Luis Perez Dasmarinas for Chinese settlers who were converted into Catholicism. Second, unlike many Chinatowns which became more of a tourist attraction, Binondo is as real as it gets . You’ll see Filipino-Chinese continue to live and work here, with all the joys, the sounds, and the dirt of a typical third-world district.

But one thing that most local tourists come here over and over again for is the food. Binondo is a giant food court. A walk along its streets isn’t complete without filling your face with authentic Filipino-Chinese dishes.

Ayala Museum

Metro Manila has numerous private museums, but Ayala Museum is my favorite because of its GOLD. Established in 1967, the museum has been cradling important cultural and historical artifacts that will change how you look at Philippine societies in the past. Aside from countless pieces of art, its most valuable collection is the “Gold of Ancestors” exhibit, with over a thousand gold artifacts on display, an undeniable proof of our forefathers’ highly sophisticated way of life that burgeoned and flourished in the 16th century, even before the Spanish era.

Opening Hours : Tuesdays to Sundays from 9 am to 6pm Entrance Fee : P425 (Full access)

Poblacion, Makati

Makati’s Poblacion area has become the “place to be” for both tourists and locals over the past few years. It has rows of bars and restaurants that young locals frequent. It has also seen budget-friendly lodging options sprout along its streets, nurturing a backpacking culture.

In the daytime, you can explore Brgy. Poblacion and stop at the following:

• Sts. Peter and Paul Church
• La Casitas Mercedes, a heritage home
• Pasig River Park
• Salcedo Market (Saturday only)
• Legazpi Market (Sunday only)

Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Home to many corporate offices and high-end restaurants and shops, Bonifacio Global City in Taguig is Manila’s premier business and shopping district. But it’s also hip and trendy. Put on your most comfortable footwear and find 17 of the attention-grabbing works of art like wall murals and installations.

How to Get There: From EDSA Ayala, ride a bus to BGC. You can also ride a jeep from EDSA-Guadalupe. BGC is also accessible from C5.

Malacañang Palace

Malacañang is the official residence of the President of the Philippines, but some parts of it are open to visitors. This guided walking tour will take you around this historic house of power and narrate the stories (and scandals) of those who lived in it. Then, you will be taken to the other parts of Brgy. San Miguel (where Malacanang is located) including San Rafael Street and Legarda Mansion, one of the first art deco houses in Manila, for a merienda.

Important! If you’re booking this tour, you need to reply to the confirmation email with a copy of your passport and other details.

The University of the Philippines-Diliman is not just an academic institution but a completely different world, sheltered from the deafening noise and the busy jolt of the rest of the city. Take a jog and see the many old buildings that incubate some of the best young minds, coming from different parts of the country.

Watch a student film at Cine Adarna. Step into the Vargas Museum. Check out Maginhawa Street, a food-lover’s paradise dotted with countless restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines — from streetfood (balut, isaw, and kwek-kwek) to home-cooked meals to gourmet treats.

National Museum Complex

The National Museum complex is composed of four separate buildings adorning Rizal Park:

• National Museum of Fine Arts
• National Museum of Natural History
• National Museum of Anthropology
• National Planetarium

The most celebrated piece inside the National Museum of Fine Arts is Juan Luna’s Spoliarium , a painting that depicts the bodies of gladiators being pulled away while onlookers watch. The artwork won a gold medal at the Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in 1884 in Madrid, Spain.

Museum Entrance : FREE Opening Hours : Tuesdays-Sundays, 10am-5pm

Other Manila Tourist Spots

• Greenhills Shopping Center . For cheap finds.
• Salcedo Saturday Market , Makati. A community market featuring a wide range of products including artisanal treats. Open every Saturday 7am-2pm.
• Legazpi Sunday Market , Makati. Open every Sunday 7:30am-2pm.

DAY TOURS FROM MANILA

Oh there are lots! Metro Manila is surrounded by provinces blessed with natural wonders. Here are just some of them.

We’re providing links to more info on how to visit the site yourself (DIY) and to a Klook page, where you can join a guided tour. Guided tours include hotel pickup and drop-off too.

Mt. Pinatubo Hike

Ride a 4×4 jeep and trek to the crater of Mt. Pinatubo! It’s a long way but the view is definitely worth the time and effort. See the rim of the crater slope up from a lakeful of rainwater, accumulated over the years!

Corregidor Island

The historic island of Corregidor is just an hour ferry ride away from Manila. Strategically located at the mouth of Manila Bay, it is the biggest of the heavily fortified islands that make up the harbor defenses of the capital. It played a pivotal role during the Pacific War, with its fall signaling Japanese victory and the start of their occupation of the Philippines (1942-45).

More info here: Corregidor Day Tour

Anilao Dive Sites (Batangas)

Anilao is the closest dive site to Manila and is regarded by many as the birthplace of scuba diving in the Philippines. It has become an ideal destination for divers, especially to beginners. A research done in the surrounding waters in 2011 alone came back with the discovery of over 300 new species!

More Info: Anilao DIY Travel Guide

Other Day Trip Destinations Near Manila

The following are other destinations you can visit on a day tour from Manila. Everything except Anawangin Cove and Nagsasa Cove can be explored for less than P1000 ($20).

• Anawangin Cove and Nagsasa Cove , Zambales. DIY Travel Guide here.
• Taal Heritage Town , Batangas
• Pililla Wind Farm and Pinto Art Museum , Rizal.
• Mt. Daraitan and Tinipak River , Rizal
• Malabrigo Beach , Batangas
• Masasa Beach , Batangas. DIY Travel Guide here.
• Hulugan Falls , Laguna. DIY Travel Guide here.
• Magdapio Falls , Laguna.
• Tagaytay City

For more info on how to reach these places by public transportation and the breakdown of expenses, read this post: Day Tours from Manila

WHERE TO EAT FILIPINO FOOD IN MANILA

To follow! We’ll be creating a separate post for this soon! So stay tuned.

SAMPLE MANILA ITINERARY

Below is a sample 3-day 2-night Manila itinerary. This assumes the following:

• You are a group of two , sleeping in a bunk bed in a dorm room at a hostel in Makati. Let’s say, you’re staying at Z Hostel for P713/night . Free breakfast is included in the cost.
• You will be splitting transportation costs . For this itinerary, you’re using Uber for comfort and to maximize your short stay.
• Your food allowance is P200-P250 per every lunch or dinner . P250 has a big allowance, to be honest, but better overestimate than under.
• Airfare is not included .

Just make the necessary adjustments to match your needs and preferences.

Day 1: AYALA MUSEUM, MAKATI 10:00am – Arrival at NAIA 11:00am – Uber to Hostel in Makati, P125 (P250/2 pax) 11:40am – Hostel check-in 12:30pm – Uber to Ayala Museum, P60 (P120/2pax) 01:10pm – Lunch, P250 02:30pm – Ayala Museum, P425 05:30pm – Explore Greenbelt complex 08:00pm – Uber to A Venue Night Market, P150 (P300/2pax) 08:30pm – Dinner at A Venue Night Market, Budget: P250 10:30pm – Walk back to hostel

Day 2: BINONDO + INTRAMUROS TOUR 07:00am – Quick breakfast 07:30am – Uber to Binondo, P125 (P250/2pax) 08:50am – DIY Binondo Food Tour, Budget: P800 02:00pm – Walk to Fort Santiago 03:30pm – Intramuros Tour, P1300 06:30pm – End Intramuros Tour 07:00pm – Dinner in Intramuros, P250 10:30pm – Uber to hostel, P125 (P250/2pax)

Day 3, OPTION A: NATIONAL MUSEUM 07:00am – Wake up, breakfast 08:00am – Early hotel check out, leave bags 09:00am – Uber to National Museum, P125 (P250) 10:00am – National Museum, FREE 01:00pm – Lunch, P200 02:00pm – Uber to hostel, P100 (P200/2pax) 03:00pm – Pick up bags at hotel 03:30pm – Uber to airport, P100 (P200/2pax) 04:30pm – Arrival at airport 07:30pm – Flight out

Day 3, OPTION B: MALACANANG PALACE 07:00am – Quick breakfast 07:30am – Early hotel check out, leave bags 07:50am – Uber to Legarda Mansion, P125 (P250) 08:50am – San Miguel + Malacanang Tour, P1380 11:30am – End Tour 12:00nn – Lunch, P200 02:00pm – Uber to hostel, P100 (P200/2pax) 03:00pm – Pick up bags at hotel 03:30pm – Uber to airport, P100 (P200/2pax) 04:30pm – Arrival at airport 07:30pm – Flight out

If you’re staying in a Z Hostel dorm, this itinerary will cost you the following:

• Option A (with National Museum): P5900
• Option B (with Malacanang): P7500

You can still bring down the cost by taking a jeepney to get to the attractions instead of Uber . It will save you as much as P700 ! It’s quite the experience too.

The biggest chunk of the budget for this itinerary also goes to the Carlos Celdran Tour of Intramuros . If you’re traveling on a shoestring, you can skip the tour and walk around the site on your own. I’ve done both the guided tour and DIY, and the guided tour will make the experience exponentially better. It will make you understand not just Intramuros but Manila as a whole.

If you have more days, consider going on a day trip to a nearby province . If you’re a history buff or you want to learn more about the significance of Manila, pick a tour to the Corregidor Island. It’s technically not part of Manila, but it is the fortress island that protects it.

If you’re up for an adventure and you want to see the immense power of nature, choose the Mt. Pinatubo Trek.

Update: We are deeply saddened to update that Carlos Celdran passed away. He was a great guy who had overflowing love for Manila. He will be missed. This tour is no longer available.

OTHER TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Tipping is not mandatory in Manila . If dining at restaurants, check if your receipt has a service charge covered. Otherwise, leave around 10% of the bill at upscale restos if you enjoyed the service. In more budget places, I usually just leave P20-P100.
• Wear light, breathable clothes . Manila’s climate can be unforgiving especially in the summer when temperatures can reach up to 34C (93F). Make sure you’re clad in something made of light, breathable material as your day can easily get hot and sweaty. If you’re planning on entering churches, dress modestly especially during mass.
• Wear sunscreen . Because the sun. :P
• Avoid rush hours . If your route uses a major thoroughfare like EDSA, commuting during rush hours is not a good idea. These hours are from 7am-10am and 5pm-9pm, when students and workers go to work and school and come home. No, not even the MRT can save you from this. All train cars are so packed this time. As a rule of thumb, either be an early bird or go out at around noon. Lunch time is usually a great time to take public transportation. The sun may be a little too much, but there really isn’t much traffic within this period.
• If rain pours heavily, don’t go out. Manila is soaked in floodwater at least once a year, and it’s frustrating how this is still not addressed appropriately up to now. But all rants aside, citizens have learned to live with it. (Sucks, I know! Ugh, ranting again.) Here’s the bottomline, if it’s been raining heavily all day, chances are that the traffic has built up. Ergo, not a great time to hit the road. Of course, there are exceptions. But to be on the safe (and dry) side, wait it out.
• Learn the art of killing time . If the rush hour or the heavy rain catch you on the road, wait it out. There’s a lot to do in Manila, anyway. Go malling, watch a movie, or kill time at a cafe until the main roads stop behaving like a massive parking lot.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is manila safe for tourists.

YES , Manila is generally safe. Like most cities, there are shady places that you should avoid, but these are not touristy areas. Petty, non-violent crimes like pickpocketing and snatching can happen in some districts if you’re not careful, so make sure you keep an eye on your belongings and avoid bringing out your valuables (especially mobile phones) unless necessary.

Poverty is real and obvious in Manila. Don’t be surprised if you get approached by street children or beggars. They’re not dangerous, but they can be persistent.

Your bigger concern is the heat. Manila can get really hot and humid especially in summer months. Speaking of summer months…

When is the best time to visit Manila?

December to May, the driest months . The last thing you want to happen during your stay in Manila is a heavy downpour, so this period is ideal. December to February is the most comfortable because the temperature isn’t that high, and you get to see how locals celebrate the holidays. March to May is widely considered as the Philippine summer, and the weather can be hot and humid.

As a predominantly Catholic nation, Filipinos take their Christmas traditions seriously. The Christmas season in the Philippines begins on September 1 and ends at the Epiphany, the Feast of The Three Kings, on January 6. The Lent is also widely observed. Know that the week before Christmas and Easter can get you stranded in traffic for hours because it’s when residents leave the city to visit family in the provinces. But on the actual holidays, the city is virtually empty, and many establishments close early if they even open at all.

June to November is the wet season. Generally, the showers are mild and tolerable, so you might still give it a shot. But every now and then, a typhoon hits, which can cause flooding and worsen the traffic situation.

Where to get pesos or exchange money in Manila?

Countless ATMs everywhere; you can simply withdraw cash instead of exchanging currencies.

If you must exchange currencies, the most reputable money changers are Sanry’s and Czarina . You can also exchange at any major bank, but you will need to present documents (passport, etc.).

What is the electrical plug used in Manila?

Socket Type A. 220V, 60Hz.

Plugs have two flat pins. Type B is sometimes used but not that common.

Updated: 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ • 3️⃣ • 8️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Now I’ve got inspiration to visit Manila! I’m not really into the Metro but this blog pursuade me:) Thanks for the tips!

Thanks din for visiting, Dhea!

Helpful Info Yoshke Dimen! We are flying into the country in the last week of August!

Hope you enjoy Manila! Prepare for the traffic jams! haha

Wow, this blog is overloaded with useful information! I know Manila quite well, and I agree with the details written here. Great job!

Thanks, Princess!

You may wanna update the Intramuros tour since Carlos Celdran is no longer around. :(

Hi Stephanie,

Will update it.

We’re heartbroken. He was a great guy who had so much love for Manila. :(

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Private Half-Day Makati (Old Manila) with Intramuros

• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
• Private tour
• Entry/Admission - Intramuros
• Entry/Admission - Fort Santiago
• Entry/Admission - San Agustin Church
• Food and drinks
• Personal Expenses/Souvenirs
• Hotels located within Manila/Makati Area only
• Infants must sit on laps
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• San Agustin Church
• Fort Santiago

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Rizal Park Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 2 Intramuros Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 Fort Santiago Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 4 San Agustin Church Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 5 Binondo Stop: 60 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• 89maryannew 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best tour to explore Old Manila's street foods We took this tour on 2/29/24. Highly recommend this tour. This is such a great way to explore Manila and try all the amazing street foods that Binondo and Quiapo has to offer.Jen, our tour guide was knowleageable and taught us so much history, and she knew all the best places to get street foods and how to avoid the lines. She was the best! Read more Written April 4, 2024
• T9209QUdawnn 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great company We were looked after by Den… fabulous guy.. (never met him, contact my WhatsApp ). Collect to and from airports….three destinations in Palawan … A fantastic day out … Ultimate Banka and kayak tour in Coron … Whow !!!! Thank you Den we will never have that experience without you …. Read more Written March 2, 2024
• 173susanp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great way to start a tour of the Philippines giving an insight into both Manila and the Philippines We actually did a full day tour of Manila staring at 10 am and ending at Barbara’s for dinner. Our guide Jonas was absolutely brilliant. He spoke excellent English and was incredibly knowledgeable about Manila and the Philippines in general. We learnt loads about the heritage and culture. He was fun, kind and considerate. Our driver Mario was very good and always polite and pleasant. Read more Written February 3, 2024
• Nigel G 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic tour guide Pick up was on time with a tour guide and driver. We were taken to all the main points of interest. Our tour guide was the most knowledgeable ever and it was a pleasure to have jonas showing us around Read more Written December 4, 2023
• Joan M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The Joy of Private Tour Flexibility We booked /paid for a half day museum tour for two. (Note: unlike most other TripAdvisor partners this company had a no cancellation/no refund policy.) Good communication and clear meet up instructions. Timely notified of a museum closure with great suggested alternate. Morning of the tour husband unwell and I didn't want to spend that much time away. Met up with the guide, Jen, on time at the exact spot, to let her know she was free to go. We knew no refund. She expressed concern, asked if we needed medical help, and asked if I had any other plans. Just wander outside the port entrance a little and try to find a 7-11... As we walked and talked she did things like subtly switched sides to shield me from aggressive vendors, pointed out sidewalk hazards, and I realized what I most wanted was to just have a nice chat with her over a beverage in a place with AC. She was up for it, and kept notifying the driver of changing plans. I'm going to skip the rest of the details and summarize by saying Jen is one of the best private guides I've had in 40 years of traveling. She was so knowledgeable and shared information in a natural way--never sounding like she'd memorized info. Jen patiently answered a wide array of questions and we had a great conversation ranging from history to culture to current events, and beyond. She was constantly thoughtful of my comfort without being fussy. (She also kept her driver in the loop.) Though I only ended up using about half the scheduled tour time, I wrapped up the day with her because I was at that "Goldilocks moment" of feeling that everything which transpired was " just right." I could have easily found my way back to the ship but she walked me as far as she was permitted. The depth and breadth of her knowledge was impressive. I would happily seek Jen out in the future and feel confident recommending her and this tour provider without hesitation. Read more Written November 14, 2023
• Shaun B 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Poor customer service I injured myself in the gym on the day before my booking. I contacted the tour provider to reschedule due to pain. They didn’t reply and turned up anyway. I explained again that I was injured and wanted to reschedule. Sent two more messages and got no response. Complained to trip advisor requesting that I didn’t want a refund, but just to reschedule. They quoted “sorry, it’s inside of 24 hours”. Poor form since I paid a premium for this private tour that could easily have been rescheduled. I can see it’s available all week so it’s not as though people are lining up for private tours at the moment outside of high season. I would have been happy to pay a penalty fee, or just had one single response from the tour operator to address my issue instead of hiding behind Trip Advisor. Read more Written November 13, 2023
• LoveTravel100947 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles I would recommend to all that are interested in Cebu history Great itinerary very knowledgeable guide the driver was smooth and safe. Which is not easy in Cebu. The included lunch was fantastic Read more Written November 11, 2023
• Excursion344063 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private Tour with Great Guide Our driver and our guide were incredible. We were the only two people on the tour and we rode in an air conditioned van with leather seats. Our driver expertly drove through difficult traffic and made pleasant conversation. Our tour guide, Joan, was very knowledgeable and friendly and took us to many important sites. Overall, we had a wonderful time. Read more Written September 28, 2023
• MPwroclaw 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Another day to remember Excellent half day trip lead by Lorna, our tour Guide. We were able to see old and new Manila, and the schedule actually beat the description. American and Chinese cemetaries are to be remembered, as well as Fort Santiago and Casa Manila. Definitelly recommend. Good experience of Manila, we were the only passangers of extremly comfortable and airconditioned Toyota SUV. Must do if you want quickly see what the city has to offer. Read more Written September 8, 2023
• Wanderer07485722280 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Day!! First of all it was a driver a tour guide ( very knowledgeable) and the two of us. Essentially it was a private tour. The first part of the tour consisted of a lot of driving to see monkeys and chocolate hills. But the highlight of the tour was a wonderful lunch on a boat down the river. GREAT EXPERIENCE!!! WORTH THE MONEY!! Read more Written August 1, 2023
• kdcarroll2003 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles First-timers Must Do Activity Jonas was very funny, informative, entertaining! The mix between driving and walking during the tour was just right. All the places visited were very interesting. Definitely a must go-to tour for first time visitors! Read more Written June 30, 2023
• ldmian 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bohol and Panglao Island is a must see location while in the Philippines. We did the Bohol Countryside tour which included Chocolate Hills, Loboc River Cruise, Tarsier Conservatory, Blood Pact, Baclayon Church, Man-Made Forest and XZootic Snakes and Butterflies. These tours were so cool to see to see these attractions. Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers were the highlights of the trip. We stayed in Panglao Island and did island hopping in Balicasag and Virgin Island. Some of the best snorkeling for fish and coral I've ever seen. Rented a scooter for 3 days to get around the island and explore. Alona Beach was a little Boracay (less people and traffic). I prefer this setting better as I hate crowds. Read more Written May 19, 2023
• Paradise559988 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Don’t pass this tour up!’ This was an amazing experience, we loved every minute of this tour. Jonas and our driver were excellent hosts. They shared so much Philippine history and culture with us. The canoe trip was awesome!!! Definitely worth the drive! Read more Written May 5, 2023
• Becky A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing time Such an amazing tour. So much history and we had Jen for a guide, she was so knowledgable. We learnt a lot and she even helped us get on to a jeepney whilst in the city. Would highly recommend this whistle top tour of the top sights in the area! Read more Written May 3, 2023
• dazzleo 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must do while you are Panglao- Tagbilaran area 100% recommend! This trip was a last minute thing with my wife and I. It was a great experience. Although, Our hotel is not on their list for pick up. They still set up a pick up time. Kuya Elmer and Kuya Dandan arrived at our hotel 10 mins earlier to pick us up. Kuya Elmer (tour guide) is very knowledge able of the area and its History. Him and Kuya dandan are very accomodating and helpful in ensuring that my wife and enjoyed our tour. Kuya Elmer also introduce us to the Manmade Forest and the Blood compact site. We enjoyed all the locations that was offered. We even get to do the ATV ride to the Chocolate hills. This is optional and we are glad that we did it!! Since it is a private tour, we didnt have to wait for "the group" to get done. We are at our leisure to look at the sites and souvenir shop. Loboc River cruise was very enjoyable. Make sure that you bring a mask and some cash. The drinks (aside from water) are not included in the ticket. It is also great to tip the performers during the cruise. 100% recommended this trip!! Read more Written April 29, 2023

More to explore in Luzon

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Private Half-Day Makati (Old Manila) with Intramuros provided by Blue Horizons Travel and Tours, Inc