8 Top Things To Do In Manila: Experience the Best of Philippines’ Culture

Manila, the capital city of Phillippines is famously perceived to be “Rome of the East” due to the rich cultural heritage and history that the city holds which can be experienced in every corner. Once ruled by many countries such as Spain, America, and Japan, who all left behind a part of their culture hence Manila’s historic legacy dates back many centuries. Get a taste of the magnificent culture of the Philippines with this list of 8 top things to do in Manila that we have curated for you.

Top Things To Do In Manila

1. Manila Baywalk Visit

One of the top things to do in Manila is to take a romantic stroll along the Manila Baywalk while watching the sun go down. The Baywalk starts from the American Embassy and stretches down to the Cultural Center of the Philippines measuring about 2 km along the shore where you can get a view of skyscrapers across the road and at the Manila Yacht Club, one can unwind given numerous options on cafes, restaurants, and also witness live street music performances.

2. The Rizal Park Visit

Titled after Philippines national hero Jose Rizal, the Rizal Park is known to be the city’s largest public park which is spread over 140 acres of land, this park has lovely ornamental gardens, statues of historical personalities, a Central Lagoon with pleasing fountains, as well as an Orchidarium so exploring this park will never have a dull moment due to the numerous attractions it holds inside. Also known as the Luneta Park by the locals, walking in the park with your better half is definitely one of the best things Manila offers for couples.

Address: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
Entry charge: INR 25 per person
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM

3. National Museum Complex Visit

Organising a trip to Manila at the time of Christmas? Do not forget to hit the popular National Museum Complex which is certainly among several top attractions to not miss in Manila. The deep history and heritage of this country are exhibited in this museum. The museum complex is a combination of the National Art Gallery, Museum of the Filipino People, and the Planetarium.

Address: P. Burgos Drive, Rizal Park, Manila
Entry Charge: Free
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM and is shut on Mondays

4. Try Out Food At Pasay Seafood Market

If you are a food enthusiast then a visit to the Pasay Seafood Market is mandatory during your holiday. Positioned near the Mall of Asia in Manila, one can find numerous stalls being installed and filed with the different kinds of seafood like shrimp, lobster, langoustine, crab, mussels and all kinds of fish from tuna to blue marlin at this bustling market. For a foodie, this is positively one of the top activities to do in Manila where they can pick and choose your favoured seafood and they will take it to the eateries outside the market to prepare it for consumption.

5. Shopping At The Greenbelt Mall

Shopping till you drop at Greenbelt Mall is one of the top things to do in Manila for couples. Though window shopping prevails as one of the free activities to do in Manila and in the rest of the world, the mall is interconnected by elevated walkways and it is also home to more than 300 stores. Be it Calvin Klein, Gucci, or Prada, one will find all their beloved labels under one roof.

6. Sing-Along On Videoke Nights

Questioning about top things to do at night in Manila? Go to one of the many videoke or karaoke bars in the nights and spend a fun night. This is also one of the most enjoyable tours to do in Manila with friends. Such bars are found more around Greenbelt. If you are a gifted singer, you can go forward and take charge of the microphone and spotlight to present in front of a crowd and if you are not skilled at music but would like to, there is always a choice to attend one of the group rooms to sing beside your friends.

7. Enjoy a Jeepney Ride

Out of the many top things to do in Manila during your trip, Jeepney Rides is going to be the most fun one which was inspired by America during the 20th century, these jeepneys are usually packed and decorated in bright colours and is one of the most affordable means of transportation in the city. These Jeepneys have become a part of Manila’s individuality over the decades. Don’t miss out on this ride!

8. Manila Ocean Park Visit

One of the best attractions in Manila with kids is to tour the famous Manila Ocean Park. This park has an oceanarium that is home to more than 14,000 aquatic animals and over 270 marine varieties and it is also recognised to be one of the largest aquariums in the world. Families with kids can experience different animal presentations arranged in the park-like the Seal Lion Show, Penguin Show and the All the Bird Show.

Address: 666 Behind Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
Entry charge: INR 526 onwards
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM

Frequently Asked Questions about Manila Travel

1. What is the importance of the name ‘Manila’?

Answer: The name Manila is derived from two Tagalog words ‘May’ which means ‘There is’ and ‘Nilad’ which is the name of a shrub that was produced profusely along Manila Bay.

2. Is Manila a safe place to tour?

Answer: Yes, usually Manila is a secure place to visit. Yet, crimes still occur there and one needs to be careful at all times.

3. What is the most suitable time to visit Manila?

Answer: The most suitable time to tour Manila is January to April as the weather is comfortable during that time and you will be able to explore the country conveniently. However, temperatures might be somewhat on the higher in March and April but you won’t have rains to ruin the vacation.

Excited to visit Manila and enjoy its culture and heritage? Book your trip to Philippines with Pickyourtrail to tailor-make your itinerary to get to experience Philippines at its best.