5-Day Manila Discovery: Experience the Heart of the Philippines

Manila, Philippines

5 days

The Rizal Monument in Rizal Park
Spanish Colonial house fountain in Casa Manila
Andres Bonifacio Shrine
Manila bay waterfront
Makati city as business and financial district

About Manila, Philippines

Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. This bustling metropolis offers a unique blend of Spanish colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. Visit the historic walled city of Intramuros, explore the diverse exhibits at the National Museum, or shop at the bustling markets of Divisoria and Quiapo. Savor the local cuisine, with its Spanish, Chinese, and Malay influences. Enjoy Manila's lively nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Take a relaxing stroll along Manila Bay's sunset-lit promenade or explore the city's numerous parks and gardens. With its warm, friendly locals and a plethora of attractions, Manila is a captivating destination that offers something for every traveler.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Rizal Park and the National Museum

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Rizal Park, a historical urban park located in the heart of Manila. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Filipino lunch in a local restaurant. Try the famous Adobo or Sinigang.

Afternoon

Visit the National Museum of the Philippines, where you can learn about the country's rich history and culture.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the Manila skyline.

Evening

Take a relaxing stroll along the Manila Baywalk and enjoy the stunning sunset views.

Morning

Explore Intramuros, the oldest district and historic core of Manila. Don't miss Fort Santiago, a citadel first built by Spanish conquistador.

Lunch

Have lunch in a cozy restaurant within Intramuros. Try some local delicacies.

Afternoon

Visit San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the oldest stone church in the Philippines.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in a restaurant offering a fusion of Filipino and international cuisine.

Evening

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Manila in one of the city's popular entertainment districts.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Manila Ocean Park, a marine-themed park and oceanarium.

Lunch

Enjoy a seafood lunch in a restaurant near the ocean park.

Afternoon

Visit the Manila Zoo and Botanical Garden, home to numerous species of animals and plants.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a variety of Asian cuisines.

Evening

Take a leisurely walk in one of Manila's bustling shopping districts.

Morning

Visit the Cultural Center of the Philippines, a hub of Filipino arts and culture.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant offering a variety of Filipino dishes.

Afternoon

Explore the Ayala Museum, which showcases the art, history, and culture of the Philippines.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in a restaurant offering a fusion of Filipino and international cuisine.

Evening

Watch a cultural show or concert at one of the city's renowned theaters.

Morning

Visit the Quiapo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, a prominent Catholic Church in Manila.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try the famous Lechon or Pancit.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs and local products in one of Manila's popular markets.

Dinner

Have your farewell dinner in a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the Manila skyline.

Evening

Take a final stroll along the Manila Baywalk, reflecting on your wonderful journey.

Attractions in Itinerary (11)

Rizal Park

1
Rizal Park

One of the largest urban parks in Asia, featuring monuments, gardens, and a central lagoon.

Attractions
Parks
Landmarks
National Museum of the Philippines

2
National Museum of the Philippines

Home to the country's important artifacts and works of art.

Attractions
Museums
Manila Baywalk

3
Manila Baywalk

A popular promenade offering stunning views of Manila Bay, especially during sunset.

Attractions
Parks
Landmarks
Intramuros

4
Intramuros

A historic walled area within the modern city of Manila.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Fort Santiago

5
Fort Santiago

A citadel used by Spanish and American military, now a historical site.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
San Agustin Church

6
San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church is a Roman Catholic church under the auspices of The Order of St. Augustine, located inside the historic walled city of Intramuros in Manila.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Manila Ocean Park

7
Manila Ocean Park

An oceanarium in Manila, featuring a 25-meter underwater acrylic tunnel.

Attractions
Entertainment
Manila Zoo and Botanical Garden

8
Manila Zoo and Botanical Garden

Manila Zoo and Botanical Garden is a 5.5-hectare zoo located in Manila, Philippines that houses several species of animals. The botanical garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts, with a collection of local and exotic plants.

Parks
Gardens
Attractions
Cultural Center of the Philippines

9
Cultural Center of the Philippines

A performance venue and an exhibition center, home to the country's premier artistic events.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Ayala Museum

10
Ayala Museum

A museum in Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines. It is located in Ayala Center adjacent to Greenbelt mall and is run privately by the Ayala Foundation.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Quiapo Church

11
Quiapo Church

A Roman Catholic church located in the District of Quiapo, Manila, and is one of the most popular churches in the Philippines.

Religious Sites
Cultural Experiences
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Adobo

Adobo

Adobo is a popular Filipino dish and cooking process that involves meat, seafood, or vegetables marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. It's a staple in Manila and a must-try for tourists.

Sinigang

Sinigang

Sinigang is a sour soup native to the Philippines. This tamarind-based soup is a favorite in Manila and is often served with pork, beef, shrimp, or fish.

Lechon

Lechon

Lechon is a whole roasted pig, and is often served at festive occasions in Manila. It's known for its crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat.

Halo-Halo

Halo-Halo

Halo-Halo is a popular Filipino cold dessert-drink made from crushed ice, evaporated milk, and various ingredients like sweetened beans, jello, fruits, and topped with leche flan and ube ice cream. It's a refreshing treat to beat the Manila heat.

Pancit

Pancit

Pancit is a noodle dish often served on birthdays and special occasions in Manila. There are many variations, but most include meat, vegetables, and sometimes seafood.

Balut

Balut

Balut is a developing bird embryo that is boiled and eaten from the shell. It's a common street food in Manila and is considered a delicacy by many Filipinos.

Kare-Kare

Kare-Kare

Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino stew complimented with a thick savory peanut sauce. It is made from a variation base of stewed oxtail, pork hocks, calves feet, pig feet, beef stew meat, and occasionally offal or tripe.

Bibingka

Bibingka

Bibingka is a type of baked rice cake from the Philippines. It's traditionally made from galapong, baked in a special clay pot, lined with a piece of banana leaf, and topped with salted duck egg and cheese.

Taho

Taho

Taho is a Philippine street food made of fresh soft/silken tofu, arnibal (sweetener and flavoring), and sago pearl (similar to tapioca pearls). This staple comfort food is a must-try for anyone visiting Manila.

Jollibee Chickenjoy

Jollibee Chickenjoy

Jollibee Chickenjoy is a popular fast-food fried chicken meal in the Philippines. It's crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and is often served with a side of spaghetti.

Sisig

Sisig

Sisig is a Filipino dish made from parts of pig head and liver, usually seasoned with calamansi and chili peppers. It's a popular dish in Manila and is often served sizzling in a cast iron plate.

San Miguel Beer

San Miguel Beer

San Miguel Beer is the most popular beer in the Philippines. It's a pale lager that pairs well with many Filipino dishes. It's a must-try for beer lovers visiting Manila.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Manila, Philippines is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, you can expect less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. Among these months, January to February is particularly pleasant due to cooler temperatures. However, if you're planning to attend local festivals, January and April are the best months. Please note that December to February is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds during this period.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 10

Sat

Lunar New Year's Day

February 25

Sun

People Power Anniversary

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 30

Sat

Black Saturday

April 9

Tue

The Day of Valor

April 10

Wed

Eidul-Fitar

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

June 12

Wed

Independence Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)

August 21

Wed

Ninoy Aquino Day

August 26

Mon

National Heroes Day

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 30

Sat

Bonifacio Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 30

Mon

Rizal Day

December 31

Tue

New Year's Eve

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Jeepneys are the most popular means of public transportation in Manila. They are known for their crowded seating and kitsch decorations, which have become a ubiquitous symbol of Philippine culture and art.

Tricycles are a common means of public transportation in the Philippines. They are basically motorbikes with sidecars, catering for up to two passengers at a time.

Buses are a common form of public transportation in Manila. They operate on many routes and can be a cheap way of getting around. However, they can be crowded and the traffic can be heavy.

Taxis are widely available in Manila. They are metered and can be hailed down on the street or booked in advance. They offer a convenient way to travel around the city.

Ridesharing services such as Grab are available in Manila. They can be booked via a smartphone app and offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis.

Manila has two light rail networks: the Manila Light Rail Transit System (LRT) and the Manila Metro Rail Transit System (MRT). They are a fast and efficient way to get around the city, avoiding the heavy traffic.

The Pasig River Ferry Service operates in Manila, providing an alternative way to get around. It is the only water-based transportation in Manila that cruises along the Pasig River.

Pedicabs are human-powered tricycles, a common means of transportation in small neighborhoods and short distances in Manila.

Kalesa is a horse-drawn carriage that was introduced during the Spanish colonial period. It is used in some parts of Manila, particularly in the tourist areas, for a more traditional and leisurely way of getting around.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₱ PHP

Time zoneUTC+8

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone166117

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type BPower socket type C

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Manila, Philippines as a first time visitor

1

Manila is the capital city of the Philippines and is very populated.

2

The official language is Filipino, but English is widely spoken and understood.

3

The currency used is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

4

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. A 10% tip is usually sufficient in restaurants and taxis.

5

Public transportation is widely available, including jeepneys, tricycles, buses, and the Light Rail Transit (LRT).

6

Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour. Be prepared for possible delays.

7

The weather is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It's hot and humid most of the year, with a rainy season from June to November.

8

Typhoons can occur between June and November. Stay updated with the weather forecast during your visit.

9

Dress is generally casual, but some establishments may require a more formal attire.

10

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure at all times.

11

The city is generally safe, but it's always wise to take standard precautions, especially at night.

12

The tap water is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.

13

Manila operates on Philippine Standard Time, which is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8).

14

The electrical standard is 220 volts at 60 hertz. Plugs are typically Type A or Type B.

15

Internet access is widely available, with free WiFi often offered in hotels, cafes, and some public areas.

16

Manila has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants open late.

17

Shopping is a popular activity, with a range of options from high-end malls to local markets.

18

Street food is a must-try. Be adventurous but also cautious about hygiene.

19

Manila has a rich history and culture. Respect local customs and traditions.

20

Healthcare facilities are generally good in Manila, but travel insurance is recommended for any unexpected medical expenses.

Basic Filipino to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Kamusta

ka-mus-ta

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Paalam

pa-a-lam

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

Salamat

sa-la-mat

Expressing gratitude

Please

Pakisuyo

pa-ki-su-yo

Making a request

Yes

Oo

o-o

Agreeing or affirming

No

Hindi

hin-di

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Paumanhin

pa-u-man-hin

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Pasensya na

pa-sen-ya na

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Nagsasalita ka ba ng Ingles?

nag-sa-sa-li-ta ka ba ng in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Hindi ko maintindihan

hin-di ko mai-n-tin-di-han

Not understanding what was said

Where is the bathroom?

Saan ang banyo?

sa-an ang ban-yo

Asking for the bathroom

How much is this?

Magkano ito?

mag-ka-no i-to

Asking the price of something

I need a doctor

Kailangan ko ng doktor

kai-lan-gan ko ng dok-tor

In case of medical emergency

Can you help me?

Maaari mo ba akong tulungan?

ma-aari mo ba a-kong tu-lun-gan

Asking for help

Food

Pagkain

pag-kain

Talking about food

Water

Tubig

tu-big

Asking for water

Beer

Beer

beer

Ordering a beer

Cheers

Tagay

ta-gay

Toasting

I love you

Mahal kita

ma-hal ki-ta

Expressing love

Beautiful

Maganda

ma-gan-da

Complimenting someone

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Swimwear

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops

  • Hat or cap

  • Sunglasses

  • Raincoat or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour reservations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and power bank

  • Universal power adapter

  • Camera

  • Memory cards

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Laptop or tablet

  • E-reader or books

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Travel-size wet wipes

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Travel laundry line and pegs

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Manila, Philippines, it's crucial to consider the city's tropical climate, which is characterized by high humidity, abundant rainfall, and relatively high temperatures. The year in Manila is divided into two main seasons: the dry season, which typically runs from November to April, and the wet season, which spans from May to October. If you prefer warm, dry weather, the best time to visit would be during the dry season. During this period, temperatures can range from 79°F to 95°F (26°C to 35°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, if you're planning to visit during the wet season, be prepared for frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall. The temperatures during this season range from 77°F to 90°F (25°C to 32°C). Despite the rain, the wet season also has its charm, with lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing due to the high humidity. Don't forget your sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong, especially during the dry season. Lastly, always keep an eye on the weather forecast during your stay. This is particularly important during the wet season, as the city can experience typhoons. Stay safe and enjoy your trip to Manila!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

30° / 22°

January is the coolest month in Manila, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February

31° / 22°

February is still relatively cool in Manila, with temperatures slightly increasing. It's a good time to visit before the heat of summer sets in.

March

33° / 24°

March marks the start of summer in Manila, with temperatures starting to rise. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather.

April

34° / 25°

April is the hottest month in Manila, with temperatures peaking at 34 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the heat and want to hit the beaches.

May

34° / 25°

May continues the summer heat in Manila, with temperatures similar to April. It's a good time to visit if you want to experience the city's vibrant summer festivals.

June

32° / 24°

June marks the start of the rainy season in Manila, but temperatures remain high. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind occasional rain showers.

July

31° / 24°

July is in the middle of the rainy season in Manila, with temperatures slightly dropping. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather and don't mind the rain.

August

31° / 24°

August continues the rainy season in Manila, with similar temperatures to July. It's a good time to visit if you want to experience the city's lush greenery after the rain.

September

31° / 24°

September is the end of the rainy season in Manila, with temperatures remaining steady. It's a good time to visit if you want to catch the end of the rainy season.

October

31° / 24°

October marks the start of the cooler season in Manila, with temperatures starting to drop. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

November

31° / 24°

November continues the cooler season in Manila, with temperatures remaining steady. It's a good time to visit if you want to experience the city's vibrant holiday season.

December

30° / 22°

December is one of the coolest months in Manila, with temperatures dropping to as low as 22 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you want to experience a tropical Christmas.

Did you know?

Did you know that Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is the most densely populated city in the world?

1 of 10

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