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What to see in Manila
Manila Attractions
Tourists will find an enticing range of shops, restaurants, art galleries and performing venues in Manila, which is easily among the region's most exciting capitals. History buffs should certainly visit the National Museum, where they'll find exhibitions of sunken treasure dating back to 1600, and the Ayala Museum, which covers the history of the Philippines. They will also enjoy exploring the ruins in Intramuros. Located on the Pasig Rivers south bank, it was founded in 1571 and was originally the capital of the Spanish East Indies.
Travellers will see many ornate churches across the largely Catholic city. A prime example is the San Agustin Church. It dates back to 1606 and has survived wars, earthquakes and invasions. Manila also has one of the largest Chinatowns in the world. Visitors can dine on delicious cuisine and purchase exotic Chinese goods. The Malacañan Palace, which is the residence of the Head of State, is well worth a visit too, while the peaceful American Cemetery and Memorial honours those who died during WWII.
American Cemetery and Memorial
Located near the Makati commercial centre, the American Cemetery is a quiet oasis in bustling Manila. The hillside burial ground contains thousands of white marble crosses, which mark the graves of…
Binondo (Chinatown)
Binondo is the world's oldest 'Chinatown', and remains one of its largest, most authentic and culturally intriguing. The Spanish established it at the end of the 16th century, when they gave tax-free…
Intramuros
Intramuros is one of the oldest parts of Manila. Located on the southern bank of the Pasig River, the walled Spanish enclave is a feast of historic buildings and churches, many of which are being or…
Las Pinas
Las Pinas neighbours Manila on Luzon Island, and is a popular stop among visitors to the Philippines. Its bamboo organ is one of its best attractions. Housed in the charming San Jose Church, its unique…
Malacañan Palace
The Malacañan Palace is the seat of government and official residence of the Philippines head of state. Situated on the north bank of the Pasig River, the villa has been a noble residence since…
National Museum of the Philippines
The National Museum and Art Gallery of the Philippines showcases the cultural, natural and historical heritage of the islands. The large and comprehensive institution categorises its exhibits in five…
Rizal Park
Rizal Park is named for the Philippine writer, philosopher and anti-colonialist, Dr Jose Rizal, whose execution is 1896 sparked the Philippine Revolution. The country held its Declaration of Philippine…
San Agustin Church
San Agustin is Manila's oldest church and stands within Intramuros. Completed in 1607, it has survived the ravages of time and successive invasions. In fact, it was the only public building left standing…
Subic Bay Freeport Zone
Subic Bay is located on the site of a former United States Naval base. The eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 buried the area in ash, and it has since been transformed into a buzzing eco-tourism and…
Tagaytay City
Tagaytay is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in the Philippines. Located just south of Manila, the town's most famous attraction is the Taal Volcano, which sits on an island in a lake.…
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