Things to do in Manila
Manila is a chaotic, vibrant megacity where your dollar stretches remarkably far, street food costs cents, jeepney rides cost less than a quarter, and world-class malls, historic Spanish colonial sites, and buzzing nightlife are all within reach on a shoestring.
Why go to Manila
Intramuros (Walled City)
Explore the 16th-century Spanish fortified district with cobblestone streets, cannons, and Fort Santiago's haunting history.
National Museum of Fine Arts
Home to Juan Luna's masterpiece 'Spoliarium' inside a stunning Neoclassical building, and completely free to enter.
Rizal Park (Luneta)
Massive urban park where the national hero José Rizal was executed, featuring monuments, gardens, and a nightly sound-and-light show.
BGC Street Art & Bonifacio Global City
An open-air gallery of world-class murals across a walkable modern district with rooftop bars and weekend markets.
Binondo Chinatown Food Crawl
The world's oldest Chinatown is a sensory explosion of pork dumplings, hopia, and fried siopao eaten elbow-to-elbow with locals.
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Good to know in Manila
- Transit: Jeepneys and e-jeepneys cost $0.10-0.25 per ride; the MRT-3 and LRT lines cover major corridors for under $0.50, avoid taxis and use Grab (ride-hail) for fair metered fares.
- Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated, round up or leave 10% at sit-down restaurants; bellhops and hotel staff expect $0.50-1 per bag.
- Tap water: Do not drink tap water in Manila; buy large 5-gallon refill jugs from water stations for $0.30 or stick to sealed bottled water at $0.25-0.50.
- Free-entry days: The National Museum Complex is free every day; Rizal Park and Paco Park are always free, no special day needed.
Trip essentials
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