Top 20 Things To Do in Manila

Why Manila Surprised Me

When I first touched down in Manila, I expected traffic, heat, and chaos. And yes, those things are real. But what I didn’t expect? A city bursting with contrast! Gritty streets leading to rooftop bars, Spanish colonial walls sheltering modern coworking spaces, and street food that rivals what I had in Bangkok. Well…almost. ☺️

I’m a software engineer working remotely for a San Francisco-based startup, and I’ve been living a nomadic lifestyle for the past two years. After stints in Bali, Ho Chi Minh, and Chiang Mai, I landed in the Philippine capital out of curiosity. What started as a two-week experiment turned into a three-month stay.

This guide is for anyone visiting Manila: tourists, backpackers, foodies, and fellow nomads. Whether you’re here for a week or a few months, here are the top 20 things to do in Manila – backed by experience, local tips, and hours spent on foot, ferry, and laptop.

Things To Do in Manila: A Curated List of City Highlights

I know Manila can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but give it a chance and you’ll find it has so much to offer! Historic landmarks and local food spots to chill cafes and creative corners… Here’s a list of things I genuinely enjoyed and think you might too.

1. Intramuros: History on Cobblestones

Why go?

Intramuros is Manila’s oldest district and a time capsule of Spanish colonial rule. The cobbled streets, stone churches, and quiet plazas offer a tranquil contrast to the city’s usual buzz.

What to Do:

• Visit Fort Santiago: A fortress dating back to the 1500s. The museum inside offers a deep dive into Filipino resistance and national hero Jose Rizal.
• San Agustin Church: The oldest stone church in the country. The attached museum has antique religious relics and paintings.
• Ride a Bambike: Eco-friendly bamboo bikes are available for guided tours.

2. The National Museum Complex: Where Art Meets Story

Why go?

Three massive museums: Fine Arts, Anthropology, and Natural History, and they’re all free. Located near Rizal Park, this is a must-do for a deeper understanding of Filipino identity.

Highlights:

• Spoliarium by Juan Luna: An iconic painting on display in the Fine Arts wing.
• Natural History’s Atrium: Instagram heaven with a DNA helix-inspired structure.
• Anthropology: Great for learning about indigenous tribes and pre-colonial life.

3. Manila Baywalk: Sunset and Street Life

Why go?

Manila Bay has one of the most dramatic sunsets in Asia. The Baywalk is a seaside promenade perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Best Time: Sunset (5:30 PM to 6:30 PM)

What to Expect:

• Local musicians, street vendors, and joggers
• Dolomite Beach: A controversial but photogenic man-made white sand beach
• Views of ships silhouetted against an orange sky

Local Tip: Bring mosquito repellent and stay cautious after dark.

4. Rizal Park (Luneta): Heart of the Nation

Why go?

It’s not just a park, it’s a symbol of Filipino independence and resilience. Locals flock here on weekends for picnics, dances, and yoga.

Don’t Miss:

• Rizal Monument: Guarded 24/7 by ceremonial soldiers
• Musical fountain at night
• Open-air theater with weekend performances

Pro Tip: Visit on Sundays for free entertainment and people-watching.

5. Pinto Art Museum: Modern Art in the Hills

Location: Antipolo (30-60 min from Manila)

Why go?

A haven of art and greenery, Pinto Art Museum sprawls over a Mediterranean-style compound filled with contemporary Filipino art.

Must-See:

• Whitewashed villas with large-scale modern paintings
• Outdoor sculptures
• Café Rizal for scenic dining

Getting There: Ride-hailing apps or van from Cubao terminal.Traveler Vibe: Instagrammable, relaxing, creative

6. Binondo Food Crawl: Chinatown Adventures

Why go?

Welcome to the world’s oldest Chinatown. This is where Filipino and Chinese flavors collide.

Top Eats:

• Sincerity Restaurant: Try the fried chicken.
• Dong Bei Dumplings: Handmade in front of you.
• Wai Ying: Budget-friendly dim sum.

7. Bonifacio High Street: Modern Manila

Why go?

In the heart of BGC (Bonifacio Global City), this open-air strip is home to international brands, art installations, coffee shops, and startup offices.

Best For:

• Casual strolls
• Dog walking and people watching
• Premium dining and shopping

Nomad Tip: Great place to test mobile data speed. 5G is solid here.

8. San Agustin Church: Spiritual Heritage

Why go?

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Agustin is not only the oldest church in the country, but also a historical treasure trove.

Details:

• Constructed in 1607
• Survived earthquakes and World War II
• Museum displays religious art and artifacts

When to Go: Weekdays, right before sunset for a quiet visit.

9. Coworking in Manila: Where Hustle Meets Community

Top Spots:

• KMC Solutions: Multiple branches, reliable internet, great for networking
• Weremote: Chill vibe, free coffee
• Clock In: Affordable day passes, great location

What Nomads Want to Know:

• Most have fast Wi-Fi (70-200 Mbps)
• Day passes: PHP 500-900
• Good mix of locals and expats
• Zoom call-friendly

Pro Tip: Use coworker.com to find ratings and reviews.

10. Cafés to Work From: Manila’s Coffee and Wi-Fi Culture

Why go?

Whether you’re a digital nomad hunting for strong Wi-Fi or a traveler looking to sip local brews, Manila’s café scene delivers. Many coffee shops are laptop-friendly, and some even double as remote work hubs.

Top Picks:

• Toby’s Estate (Salcedo Village): Specialty coffee, open space, reliable outlets.
• Commune Café + Bar: A creative hub in Poblacion. It hosts open mic nights too.
• Caravan Black (BGC): Sleek interiors and steady fiber connection.
• Habitual Coffee (Ortigas & BGC): Aeropress pros; minimalist vibes.
• The Curator (Legazpi Village): Hidden cocktail bar by night, intimate coffee lab by day.

What People Want to Know:

• Wi-Fi speeds usually range from 30–100 Mbps.
• Outlets are common but can be limited, so come early.
• Coffee prices: PHP 150–250 ($3–$5 USD).
• Good etiquette: Buy a drink or snack per 2-hour stay.

Nomad Tip: Use cafés in Makati or BGC during the week to avoid weekend crowds. Most baristas are fluent in English and can recommend less-busy hours.

11. Nightlife in Poblacion: Indie Bars, Rooftops, and Creative Vibes

Why go?

If Makati’s Central Business District is Manila’s corporate face, Poblacion is its wild, artsy alter ego. Once a red-light district, this neighborhood has evolved into the capital’s go-to for indie bars, rooftop hangouts, speakeasies, and all-night fun.

Top Spots:

• Agimat Foraging Bar: Ethno-botanical cocktails with wild Filipino ingredients.
• Run Rabbit Run: Hidden cocktail bar with a classy but relaxed vibe.
• Z Hostel Rooftop: Sunset views, DJ sets, and backpacker-friendly energy.
• Dr. Wine: Wine bar with balcony seating and expat crowd.

What People Want to Know:

• Crowd: A mix of locals, expats, digital nomads, and creative types.
• Safety: Stick to main streets, especially at night. Grab rides home.
• Costs: Cocktails range from PHP 250–500. Happy hour deals are common.
• Dress code: Casual-smart. Leave the flip-flops at home for nicer spots.

Tip: Z Hostel’s rooftop is one of the best places to meet other remote workers and startup folks, especially on weekends.

12. Take a Ferry Ride on Pasig River

Why go?
The Pasig River Ferry Service is an underrated way to see the city. It’s more scenic than taking a jeepney or MRT, and avoids traffic completely.

What to Expect:

• 12 stations along the Pasig River
• Key stops: Escolta (Old Manila), Guadalupe (Makati), Lawton (near Intramuros)
• Travel time: 25–45 minutes between major stops What People Want to Know:
• Fare: PHP 20–50 depending on distance
• Runs Monday–Saturday, 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
• Not luxurious, more of a hidden gem for local flavor

Tip: Sit on the open deck and bring a small fan or hat for airflow.

13. Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)

Why go?

For travelers into performance art, theater, film, or classical music, the CCP hosts a rotating calendar of events that highlight both traditional and modern Filipino culture.

Highlights:

• Ballet Philippines and Philharmonic Orchestra shows
• Cinemalaya (indie film fest)
• Art galleries and installations

What People Want to Know:

• Tickets range from PHP 300–1,500
• Events mostly in English or Tagalog with subtitles
• Check the CCP website or Facebook for showtimes

Visit for update cultural events: https://culturalcenter.gov.ph/ 

Tip: Pair your visit with a sunset dinner at Harbour Square nearby.

14. Day Trip to Tagaytay

Why go?

Just 2 hours from Manila, Tagaytay offers a cool climate, scenic views, and a break from urban intensity. Ideal for couples, foodies, and nature lovers.

What to Do:

• View Taal Volcano from People’s Park or Starbucks Twin Lakes
• Eat at Balay Dako or Breakfast at Antonio’s
• Visit Sky Ranch for rides, or Puzzle Mansion for quirky charm

Getting There:

• Bus from Buendia or van from PITX terminal
• Private car with friends is fastest (rent via Grab or car hire apps)

Weather Tip: Bring a light jacket, especially during the rainy season (June–October).

15. Try Filipino Street Food

Why go?

No trip to Manila is complete without trying its bold, flavorful, and sometimes wild street eats.

Must-Try Items:

• Balut: Fertilized duck egg (try it with salt and vinegar)
• Isaw: Grilled chicken/pork intestines
• Kwek-kwek: Deep-fried orange quail eggs
• Taho: Silken tofu with syrup and sago, sold from aluminum buckets

Where to Find It:

• UP Diliman campus
• Quiapo area
• Side streets of Makati and Poblacion

Is It Safe? Stick to stalls with high turnover. Ask locals for their favorite vendor.

16. Ayala Museum: Art, Gold, and Filipino Innovation

Why go?

This newly renovated museum in Makati is modern, well-curated, and highly interactive.

Highlights:

• Gold of Ancestors Exhibit: 1,000-year-old gold artifacts
• Diorama Experience: 60 scenes from Philippine history
• Digital exhibits and art installations

Visitor Info:

• Entrance: Around PHP 650 ($11)
• Open Tuesday–Sunday
• Located next to Greenbelt Mall

Pro Tip: Combine this with lunch at Milky Way Café or Sentro 1771 nearby.

17. Rooftop Dining: Food with a View

Why go?

Manila’s rooftop scene is perfect for a breezy escape from ground-level chaos.

Top Picks:

• Sky Deck at The Bayleaf (Intramuros): Sunset and city lights
• The Penthouse 8747 (Makati): Gatsby-themed with a view
• Antidote at I’M Hotel: Jellyfish bar, fun cocktails

What People Want to Know:

• Reservations recommended, especially weekends
• Prices: PHP 400–1,500 per dish
• Dress smart-casual for most rooftop venues

Tip: Aim for golden hour to get the best ambiance.

18. Greenhills and Divisoria: Shopping on a Budget

Why go?

Whether you’re after bargain electronics, clothes, or souvenirs, these two shopping centers offer an adventure in itself.

What to Buy:

• Greenhills: Cell phone accessories, knock-off gadgets, pearls
• Divisoria: Bulk clothes, fabric, toys, bags

19. Spa Day: Hilot and Healing

Why go?

Hilot is a traditional Filipino healing massage that blends deep tissue techniques with intuitive pressure.

Where to Go:

• The Spa (BGC, Greenbelt): Luxury feel, clean and reliable
• Mont Albo: Affordable, authentic hilot treatments
• Nuat Thai: Good mid-range massage chain
• I’m Onsen: Japanese-style Spa

What People Want to Know:

• Hilot often includes warm coconut oil and banana leaves
• Session rates: PHP 350–1,500 depending on place
• Tips are appreciated: PHP 50–150 is standard

Pro Tip: Book in advance during rainy season weekends, it gets busy fast!

20. Explore SM Mall of Asia (MOA)

Why go?

SM Mall of Asia isn’t just one of the largest malls in the world. It’s an entertainment complex, shopping haven, and food lover’s playground rolled into one. Located along Manila Bay, it draws tourists, families, and even locals looking for weekend fun.

What to Do:

• Shop from global brands and local boutiques across four massive buildings
• Dine along the MOA Seaside Strip with a view of the bay
• Catch the evening light and fireworks show on weekends
• Ride the MOA Eye, a giant Ferris wheel with panoramic coastal views
• Visit the SM By the Bay Amusement Park or go ice skating indoors

Why It’s Interesting for Tourists: MOA blends leisure with local life. It’s where you’ll see a slice of modern Filipino culture – from families bonding over buffet dinners to couples enjoying sunset dates. For international tourists, it’s a great place to understand how Manila merges consumerism, recreation, and community in one vibrant space. Plus, its location makes it a perfect stop after a day of touring or en route to the airport.

Tip: Come late afternoon, shop indoors to avoid the heat, then head out for sunset and seaside dinner.

Additional Things to do to Expand Your Manila Adventure

If you’re looking to go beyond the basics, this section is for you. I’ve pulled together extra tips, guides, and local insights to help you shape a Manila experience that fits your style – whether you’re into food, family-friendly fun, budget travel, or remote work. 

These add-ons are meant to give your adventure more depth, more flavor, and maybe a few surprises along the way.

Make the Most of Your Time in Manila: 3-Day and 7-Day Itineraries

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick weekend or planning to stay for a full week, these sample itineraries are here to help. I’ve put together a 3-day plan for first-timers who want to hit the highlights, and a 7-day version for those with more time to explore Manila at a slower, more local pace.

3-Day Itinerary in Manila for First-Time Visitors

This quick-start itinerary is perfect for tourists who want to see Manila’s essentials without getting overwhelmed. It’s designed to balance cultural immersion, food discovery, and iconic landmarks.

• Day 1: Dive into history with an Intramuros walking tour, then relax in Rizal Park and catch the famous Manila Bay sunset.
• Day 2: Eat your way through Binondo (the world’s oldest Chinatown), visit the National Museum, then enjoy a rooftop dinner in BGC.
• Day 3: Escape the city with a day trip to Tagaytay for lake views, volcano panoramas, and fresh air.

7-Day Itinerary in Manila with Day Trips

For travelers with more time, this itinerary introduces Manila’s rhythms while allowing for deeper cultural exploration and relaxing escapes.

• Day 1–2: Explore the walled city of Intramuros, the National Museum Complex, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
• Day 3: Discover Manila’s shopping scene and recharge with a spa day.
• Day 4: Visit Tagaytay or Antipolo for art and nature.
• Day 5: Get productive or inspired in coworking cafes.
• Day 6: Dive into local nightlife with a guided bar hop in Poblacion.
• Day 7: Cruise the Pasig River for a scenic farewell.

Where to Stay in Manila: Neighborhood Guide

Tourists often underestimate how varied Manila’s neighborhoods are. Where you stay can shape your entire experience.

• Backpackers love Poblacion for its hostels, nightlife, and edgy charm.
• Digital nomads prefer Makati and BGC for reliable Wi-Fi, coworking spaces, and creature comforts.
• Families gravitate toward Ortigas and New Manila for safety, malls, and quieter nights.
• Culture lovers should stay in or near Intramuros to soak up history and architecture.

Budget Travel Tips for Manila

Manila is a great budget destination if you know where to look. These tips help you explore the city like a savvy local:

• Ride the LRT or jeepneys for just a few pesos.
• Eat at “carinderias” (local food stalls) or mall food courts.
• Join free walking tours or visit museums on discount days.
• Stay in coliving spaces with kitchens to cut food costs.

Unique Experiences in Manila

Beyond the guidebooks, these hidden gems help visitors understand the creative and quirky side of the capital.

• Art in Island offers immersive 3D illusions for unique photos.
• Escolta’s art spaces and vintage arcades evoke Old Manila cool.
• A horse-drawn carriage ride in Intramuros feels cinematic.
• Open mic nights and indie gigs expose visitors to Filipino talent.

A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Manila 

With fast internet, affordable living, and a growing remote work scene, Manila is a rising hub for nomads.

• Coworking spaces like Weremote and Clock In provide modern setups.
• SIM cards with generous data plans are cheap and fast.
• Join digital nomad Facebook groups to connect and cowork.
• Cost of living is manageable: PHP 45,000–85,000/month for most expats.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Manila 

Manila is surprisingly accommodating to families with kids, offering educational and entertaining options.

• Manila Ocean Park is an aquarium-meets-theme-park hybrid.
• The Mind Museum is filled with hands-on science exhibits.
• Indoor playgrounds like DreamPlay provide fun even on rainy days.
• Bonifacio High Street is stroller-friendly and offers kid-focused events.

Weekend Getaways from Manila

For tourists who want to escape the city heat, these quick trips offer relaxation, nature, and adventure.

• Subic is ideal for families, with safaris and beach resorts.
• Zambales is a surfer’s retreat, known for its island hopping and camping spots.
• Batangas has coral reefs, dive resorts, and ancestral homes.
• Antipolo offers art galleries, gardens, and scenic mountain cafés.

Food Lover’s Guide to Manila

Food is a gateway to Filipino culture, and Manila delivers bold, diverse flavors.

• Local classics like adobo, sinigang, and lechon should be on every tourist’s plate.
• Trendy restaurants like Locavore and Manam put a twist on tradition.
• Vegan travelers can try Cosmic in Poblacion or Green Bar in Legazpi.
• All-you-can-eat fans will enjoy premium buffets at Spiral or Vikings.

Most Instagrammable Places in Manila 

Whether you’re a casual photographer or full-time content creator, Manila has no shortage of visual gems.

• The Venice Grand Canal Mall mimics European elegance.
• Intramuros provides colonial backdrops and cobbled streets.
• BGC’s street murals make for modern, vibrant shots.
• Pinto Art Museum’s whitewashed structures and sculpture gardens are photo-perfect.
• San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral offer architectural drama.

These expanded guides make Manila more accessible to travelers with different interests. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a family, on a budget, or with a laptop, there’s something here that will surprise and inspire you.

Final Thoughts: Your Manila Journey Starts Here

Manila may not always make a flawless first impression, but give it a little time, and the city will grow on you in unexpected ways. Beneath the traffic and noise lies a layered, living culture where centuries-old churches stand beside co-working spaces, and jeepneys rattle past Michelin-worthy street eats.

This guide was designed to help you explore Manila not just through its tourist stops, but through its neighborhoods, flavors, rhythms, and stories. Whether you’re planning a packed 3-day visit, a full remote work month, or something in between, Manila welcomes you with open arms, fast Wi-Fi, and a plate of something delicious you’ve probably never tried.

As a remote worker, Manila gave me fast internet, amazing coworkers, a thriving creative community, and enough side quests to fill my weekends. But whether you’re coding, sightseeing, or just passing through, these 20 things to do will show you why the capital of the Philippines is more than just a gateway, it’s a destination in itself.

Come for the adventure. Stay for the community. Leave with stories you’ll be telling for years.