Manila has a rich, diverse history with its combination of Malay, Japanese, Spanish and Chinese influences. The key neighborhood to visit to get a glimpse of old Manila is Intramuros. Intramuros is where the Spanish government was located during the Spanish colonial period, it and has some of the city’s oldest structures, including Fort Santiago, the Spanish citadel; San Agustin Church, the oldest church in the Philippines; and Manila Cathedral, one of the city’s biggest tourist sites. Be sure to stop at Casa Manila, a museum in Intramuros that houses relics and artifacts from the colonial period. Also worth visiting within Manila’s city limits is Rizal Park, the execution grounds for the Spaniards, and Malacanang Palace, the official residence of the president of the Philippines.
Besides the wonderful sights and sounds of historic Manila, there are plenty of eating, shopping and entertainment possibilities for almost every kind of traveler. If you’re looking for a bit of shopping madness, then head over to SM Mall of Asia, the continent’s third largest shopping mall. For an incredible feast of street foods, wander through the Midnight Mercato. A mecca of authentic Filipino foods, you’ll find all the Filipino food classics, such as sisig, adobo, lechon, and crispy pata, that reflect the Malay, Spanish and Chinese influences.
Manila is surrounded by tourist sites outside of the city that make for excellent day trips away from the turbulence of a metropolis. Corregidor Island, just an hour ferry ride away, is a must-see, especially for history buffs, as the island was significant during the Spanish colonial period and World War II. Taal Volcano and Lake is the place to go if you’re looking for a lovely hike and breathtaking scenery. If you’re looking for more adventure, then make the short trip to Batangas City, two hours from Manila, for the best snorkeling and diving spots.
The best time to travel to Manila is from November to March, when the weather is cooler. During the summer, the crowds and congestion make the Manila metro area suffocating. While Manila is a relatively safe city, keep an eye out for tourist scams and pickpockets. Getting around the city is extremely easy. The network of trains and buses can get you to every corner of the city, and taxis are quite inexpensive for foreign travelers.
