Manila Travel Guide

1. Rizal Park: Rizal Park is an oasis in central Manila, named after the national hero José Rizal, featuring expansive gardens, lakes, and fountains. Monuments and museums within the park highlight the history of the independence movement, while shaded pathways are ideal for strolls. At night, vibrant lights attract couples and families.

2. Manila Cathedral: Built in 1581 and reconstructed multiple times, Manila Cathedral showcases neo-Baroque architecture. Its grand stone walls and stained glass narrate the history of Catholicism, with a serene and solemn interior. The surrounding plaza is perfect for photos, evoking a Spanish colonial ambiance. Attending a Mass is recommended to experience local faith.

3. Intramuros: Intramuros is Manila’s historic core, preserving 16th-century Spanish colonial relics. Stone walls enclose San Agustin Church and ancient streets exuding nostalgia. Rent a horse-drawn carriage to explore forts and museums, immersing in colonial-era charm. Comfortable shoes are advised for wandering cobblestone paths.

4. San Agustin Church: The oldest stone church in the Philippines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Agustin Church boasts Baroque architecture and exquisite murals. Its museum displays religious artifacts, and the tranquil courtyard is ideal for reflection, offering a deep sense of history.

5. Manila Bay: Famous for its romantic sunsets, Manila Bay’s lively promenade is perfect for walking or cycling. Nighttime lights and sea breezes draw locals and tourists alike, with nearby restaurants serving seafood delicacies. Visit in the evening to capture stunning sunset views.

6. National Museum of the Philippines: This museum showcases the country’s rich history and culture, with collections of archaeological artifacts and colonial-era art. Free admission and modern exhibit designs make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The neoclassical building itself is grand and imposing.

7. Binondo (Chinatown): One of the world’s oldest Chinatowns, Binondo blends Chinese and Filipino cultures, with a bustling food street. Enjoy siomai, dumplings, and noodles, soaking in the vibrant Chinese atmosphere. Historic churches and red lanterns add charm, appealing to food and culture lovers.

8. SM Mall of Asia: One of Asia’s largest shopping malls, SM Mall of Asia combines shopping, dining, and entertainment. It offers international brands, local eats, a cinema, and an ice-skating rink, ensuring endless fun.

9. Malacañang Palace: The official residence of the Philippine president, with select areas open for tours showcasing colonial-era furniture and historical artifacts. Its elegant gardens and architecture reflect a blend of power and culture. Advance reservations are required, ideal for those interested in political history. Formal attire is recommended.

10. Coconut Palace: Constructed using coconut materials, this palace highlights unique Filipino craftsmanship with ornate, tropical-inspired interiors. Once a VIP guesthouse, it’s now open for tours, appealing to architecture and culture enthusiasts. Pair with a Manila Bay visit to embrace tropical allure.

1. Adobo : The national dish of the Philippines, featuring chicken or pork stewed in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, yielding a tangy-salty, rich flavor with tender meat, perfect with rice. Blending Spanish and local influences, each household has its unique recipe. (Recommended: “Café Ilang-Ilang” in Intramuros)

2. Lechon (Roast Pig): A festive staple, with golden, crispy skin and juicy meat, served with liver sauce, bursting with aroma. Slow-roasted over charcoal, it showcases the Philippines’ bold culinary culture. (Recommended: “Lydia’s Lechon” in Quezon City)

3. Lumpia (Filipino Spring Rolls): Thin wrappers filled with pork, shrimp, and vegetables, fried to crispy perfection and served with sweet-spicy sauce, offering rich textures. A Chinese-influenced snack, ideal as an appetizer. (Recommended: “Eng Bee Tin” in Binondo Chinatown)

3. Sinigang: A sour soup flavored with tamarind, featuring shrimp, pork, or fish with vegetables, delivering a refreshing, tangy taste. Its light broth suits the tropical climate. (Recommended: “Sarsa Kitchen + Bar” in Makati)

5. Turon (Banana Fritters): A street food favorite, with bananas wrapped in sugar and fried to a caramelized, sweet, and soft texture. Simple yet delicious, loved by locals. (Recommended: Roadside stalls at Quezon City night markets)

6. Salted Egg Ice Cream: A fusion of sweet and salty flavors, with rich egg yolk aroma and creamy texture, a surprising treat for adventurous foodies. (Recommended: “Wildflour Café” at Manila Bay)

7. Kare-Kare: A rich oxtail stew with peanut sauce, paired with vegetables and shrimp paste, offering a unique, robust flavor. A traditional banquet dish with layered textures. (Recommended: “Café Ilang-Ilang” at Manila Hotel)

8. Filipino Breakfast (Silog): A classic breakfast of garlic fried rice (sinangag) and fried egg (itlog), paired with beef or sausage, simple yet satisfying, reflecting local food culture.  (Recommended: “Wildflour Café” in Pasay City)

9. Halo-Halo: A vibrant Filipino dessert with shaved ice, coconut milk, jelly, and red beans, colorful and refreshing, a summer must-have. (Recommended: “Razon’s of Guagua” in Manila City)

10. Biko: A sticky rice cake steamed with coconut milk and brown sugar, topped with a caramelized layer, sweet and chewy. A traditional dessert common at festivals and family gatherings. (Recommended: “Manila Chinatown Bakery” in Binondo Chinatown)

1. Dried Mangoes

Philippine dried mangoes, made from Irwin mangoes, offer a tangy-sweet flavor and chewy texture, retaining tropical fruit aroma. Vacuum-packed for convenience, they’re ideal as snacks or souvenirs, popular among international travelers.

• Address: “7D Dried Mango Counter” at SM Mall of Asia

2. Coconut Oil

A Philippine specialty, pure coconut oil is extracted naturally for cooking or skincare, with a light, pleasant aroma. Elegantly packaged, it’s perfect for health-conscious friends, showcasing tropical island charm.

• Address: “Human Nature Flagship Store” in Manila City

3. Dried Bananas

Made from local bananas, these dried snacks have a natural sweetness and crispy texture, healthy and delicious. Lightweight packaging makes them great for gifting or enjoying on the go, highlighting Philippine fruit flavors.

• Address: “Eng Bee Tin” in Binondo Chinatown

4. Papaya Soap

Crafted from natural papaya extract, this soap offers whitening and moisturizing benefits with a fresh scent. Compact packaging makes it a great gift for beauty enthusiasts, especially popular among female travelers.

• Address: “Watsons Pharmacy” in Manila City

5. Jeepney Models

Miniature models of jeepneys, the colorful icons of Philippine transport culture, are vibrant and detailed. Ideal as decor or toys, they’re perfect for kids or collectors, embodying local character.

• Address: “Intramuros Craft Shop” in Intramuros

6. Pearl Jewelry

Philippine pearls, known for their lustrous sheen, are handcrafted into elegant necklaces or earrings. Perfect for gifting, they reflect the natural beauty of this ocean nation.

• Address: “Greenhills Shopping Center” in Manila City

7. Coconut Shell Crafts

Hand-carved coconut shell items like bowls or decor pieces are rustic yet refined, showcasing Filipino craftsmanship. Lightweight and durable, they’re ideal for friends who love cultural collectibles.

• Address: “Craft Stalls” at Divisoria Market

8. OREO Milk Candy

OREO milk candies blend rich milky flavor with chocolate notes, sweet but not overwhelming, popular among young people. Cute packaging makes them a great gift for sweet-tooth friends.

• Address: “SM Supermarket” in Manila City

9. Barong Tagalog

The traditional Filipino shirt, woven from pineapple fibers, is lightweight, breathable, and adorned with intricate embroidery. A perfect gift, it showcases Philippine culture and craftsmanship.

• Address: “Rustan's Department Store” in Makati

10. Chocolate-Covered Dried Mangoes

Dried mangoes coated in rich chocolate, blending sweet-tart and creamy flavors for a unique treat. Elegantly packaged, they’re ideal for gifting, reflecting the Philippines’ tropical allure.

• Address: “Robinsons Supermarket” in Manila City

Dry Season (March to May):

Temperatures range from about 26-34°C, with May being the hottest (up to 36°C). The weather is hot and dry with minimal rainfall (monthly rainfall around 20-50mm), and strong sunlight makes it ideal for outdoor activities.

• Suggestions: Stroll through Rizal Park or Manila Bay, wearing short sleeves, shorts, sunscreen, and a hat. Participate in Easter activities and enjoy refreshing halo-halo dessert.

Rainy Season (June to August):

Temperatures range from about 25-32°C with high humidity and frequent rainfall (monthly rainfall around 300-400mm), often affected by typhoons. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, with cooler evenings.

• Suggestions: Visit indoor attractions like the National Museum of the Philippines or SM Mall of Asia, wearing lightweight clothing and carrying rain gear. Explore Binondo Chinatown at night, savoring steaming sinigang soup.

End of Rainy Season (September to November):

Temperatures range from about 25-32°C, with September still rainy (monthly rainfall around 200-300mm), transitioning to drier conditions by November, offering warm and comfortable weather as the peak tourist season begins.

• Suggestions: Wander through Intramuros or San Agustin Church, wearing light long sleeves and a lightweight jacket. Join Halloween events or the Manila Food Festival, and enjoy a night tour along Roxas Boulevard to experience tropical nightlife.

Cool Season (December to February):

Temperatures range from about 23-31°C, with January being the coolest (22-29°C). The weather is comfortable and dry with minimal rainfall (monthly rainfall around 10-30mm), filled with festive Christmas vibes.

• Suggestions: Visit Manila Cathedral or Binondo Chinatown’s Christmas market, wearing long sleeves and a light jacket. Attend New Year fireworks or Christmas Mass, and savor roast lechon to embrace the festive warmth.