When you are visiting the Philippines, it is most likely that your adventure will start in the bustling capital of the country, which is Manila. Manila is a city of contrasts, a blend of Spanish colonial buildings, contemporary high-rise buildings, busy street markets, and Filipino hospitality. No matter it is a short-time vacation or a long vacation, this sightseeing guide of Manila will ensure that you discover the best of the city and its real local experience.
Do you pack your bags then make sure you are sorted out your Philippines Visa or Philippines travel visa requirements, particularly when you are traveling out of the Southeast Asia. After that, you are ready to plunge into one of the most colorful Asian capitals!
1. Intramuros: The Old Manila Walled City.
The Manila sightseeing trip must always begin with the intramuros, which is the historical center of the city. This city with walls is a living museum of the past of Manila constructed in the colonial period of the Spaniards. The cobblestone streets, horse drawn carriages and the centuries old churches give you the feeling that you are in the past.
Fort Santiago is a fort that was used historically to defend Manila against outside invaders and now is a historical park that one should not miss. Indoors, there is the Rizal Shrine which honors the national hero of the Philippines, Dr. Jose Rizal. Explore San Agustin Church which is a UNESCO world heritage site due to its magnificent baroque architecture and cool yard.
Tips: Have a local guide or go on a bamboo-bike tour so that it is an eco-friendly means to see Intramuros.
2. Rizal Park (Luneta): The Green Lung of the City.
Rizal Park or Luneta Park is one of the largest urban parks in Asia and a tourist must visit place in the life of any person having interest in Philippine history. The most important feature of the park is the Rizal Monument where the remains of Dr. Jose Rizal are buried. It is not just a historical landmark but also a tourist destination of the locals having a picnic or a sunset walk.
On the weekend, it is possible to attend cultural performances or sample local street food at local vendors. To the tourist on a sightseeing holiday in Manila, Luneta provides a peaceful green getaway in the middle of the urban commotion.
3. Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC): The contemporary Metropolis.
Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are where to go in case you want a more cosmopolitan side of Manila. These areas reflect the new face of the Philippines - full of posh hotels, shopping malls and fancy restaurants.
Makati is the business heart of the world that provides the opportunity to taste the world-famous cuisine, rooftop bars, and art galleries such as the Ayala Museum, which presents the pre-colonial artifacts, and the digital exhibition of the history of the Philippines. In the meantime, BGC is also a place with extensive walk-friendly streets and even global restaurants and upscale nightlife venues.
Makati and BGC are the best areas to stay in the case of the business traveler or on a luxury holiday.
4. Manila Bay Sunset: View You Will Never Regret.
An ordinary visit to Manila will never be complete without one seeing the famous Manila bay sunset. At night, people local and foreigners alike come together at Roxas Boulevard to see the sky turn pink and orange as the sun descends below the horizon. It is among the most photographed tourist attractions in the nation and a popular tourist destination of Manila sightseeing tourists.
This is the scenery that you can see at the Baywalk promenade or you can also book a Manila Bay dinner cruise where you will be allowed to enjoy the scenery and include local foods and music.
5. Quiapo and Binondo: Plunge into the Local life in Manila.
Experience the local culture in a real sense with Quiapo that is home to the renowned Quiapo Church that houses the miraculous Black Nazarene image. Vendors also abound in the market with all sorts of religious icons down to herbal remedies. It is pandemonium, rainbow and Manila unique.
Right across the road is Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world. Established in 1594, Binondo is a very interesting place with a combination of Filipino and Chinese cultures. Go on a food crawl of Binondo to eat dim sum, dumplings and traditional Filipino-Chinese foods such as pancit and lumpia. A visit to these neighborhood will provide you with a true experience of the cultural blend of the city.
6. Day Trips from Manila
Manila is also an ideal staging ground to the adventures around it. In a couple of hours, you get out of the city and visit marvelous natural sites like:
Tagaytay - This is where one can experience cool mountain air and the stunning view of Taal Volcano.
Pagsanjan Falls - Rafting in the green tropical surroundings along the Go river.
Corregidor Island - Tour the historical island of World War II in the Manila bay.
Such excursions are excellent complements to your Manila sightseeing programme as they will provide you with a combination of nature, history and rest.
7. Taste of Manila: Where to Eat
Manila paradise is a haven of food lovers. The new Filipino dishes as well as the foreign cuisines have something to satisfy every taste. These are the dishes that you must not pass over:
Adobo - This is the unofficial national dish that is prepared using vinegar, spices, and soy sauce.
Sinigang - A sour soup made of tamarins, it is good in a hot day.
Halo-Halo - A popular treat in the Philippines that is prepared by using shaved ice, milk, and sweet toppings.
To have a fancy meal, go to Makati or BGC, whereas Binondo and Malate are good places to have local food. You can enjoy the city of Manila through food tours and have a good time.
Philippines Visa and Entry Requirement-Travel Essentials.
The Philippines Visa process should be learned in advance before traveling. Certain nationalities have visa-free access after some specified time, but this may depend on your country of origin.
For visitors of the country that are Omani and other GCC nations, securing a Philippines travel visa is generally an easy task that can be done by visiting the closest Philippine Embassy or e-visa websites. Always remember to have a passport that is at least six months extra to your estimated stay and have documents showing where you will be going and where you will be staying after that.
Note: When you are making a booking through a tour operator, they can help in the application of your Philippines travel visa and therefore the process can be stress-free.
Conclusion
Manila is a place worth visiting on its own and not just a starting point for travelling to the stunning Philippine islands. Every area has a story to tell, from the vibrant streets of Binondo, the modern skyline of BGC, the tranquil sunset views along Manila Bay, and Intramuros' rich history.
Make sure to immerse yourself in this vibrant city for a few days, regardless of whether you are travelling for business, pleasure, or as part of a larger Philippine adventure.
With careful preparation, a current Philippine visa, and this guide to Manila's sights, you'll be ready to take in the city's unique blend of culture, history, and urban charm.
