Top Things to Do in Manila

About the City

Manila: A City of Contrasts and Charisma Enveloped in a shroud of bustling streets and skyscrapers, Manila, the heart of the Philippines, pulsates with a rhythm unique to its captivating soul. In this city, history and modernity dance in a harmonious yet chaotic ballet. Revel in the juxtaposition of centuries-old churches like the iconic San Agustin standing amid the urban landscape. Sizzle your taste buds with a symphony of flavors from street food stalls serving up delectable treats such as balut and isaw to high-end restaurants offering gastronomic delights. Amidst its enticing scents, hear the constant hum of jeepneys and tricycles weaving their way through the traffic tapestry that adorns Manila's roads. However, be prepared for a dalliance with the city's less charming facets—traffic that tests the limits of patience, an embrace with the humid air that lingers year-round, and the stark reality of poverty that underscores the resilience of its people. Nonetheless, Manila's allure lies in its raw, unfiltered experiences and the warmth of locals who navigate life with a smile. From the frenetic markets of Divisoria to the tranquil greenery of Rizal Park, Manila is a city that never fails to surprise, constantly inviting the intrepid traveler to delve deeper beyond its initial impressions.

Things to Do in Manila

Guzzle down Taho

Food & Drink

Start your morning with a sweet, savory sip of Taho, the silky soya sensation that's the talk of the town! This warm tofu treat is drizzled with sugary syrup and sago pearls, and hawked by friendly ve...

Chase Waterfalls at the Heart of the City

Outdoors

Didn't think you could find a waterfall in the city? Think again! Get ready for a refreshing surprise as you discover this hidden gem. Perfect for those looking to dip their toes into some natural bea...

Craft Your Own Halo-Halo Masterpiece

The Unexpected

Get creative in the ultimate DIY dessert experience! Find a Halo-Halo station where you're the artist and the ingredients are your palette. Pile on the sweet beans, jellies, fruits, and ice like a sug...

Score a Goal at a Local Futkal Field

The Unexpected

Unleash your sporty side in the urban jungle! Try Futkal (Filipino Street Football), where the streets are your pitch, and every goal is a beauty. It’s the beautiful game with a Manila twist, and you’...

Be an Art Connoisseur at Underground Galleries

The Unexpected

Go beyond the mainstream and find the edgy heart of Manila's art scene! Discover hidden galleries where local indie artists unleash their full, unabashed creativity. It’s art without the velvet ropes,...

Join an Open-Mic Poetry Night

The Unexpected

Get in touch with your inner poet and let those heartfelt or hilariously wacky rhymes flow! Be the star at an open-mic night and let the crowd snap their fingers to your original spoken word. Who know...

Unwind at Ayala Triangle Gardens

Outdoors

Escape the urban jungle and find your peace in the green oasis of Ayala Triangle Gardens. Jog, relax, or just enjoy people-watching in this little patch of greenery amidst the skyscrapers. Perfect for...

Catch Thrills on a Wakeboard

Outdoors

Ready to make a splash and test your balance? Wakeboarding in the city is the perfect blend of water sports and urban vibes. Suit up in those life vests, grab the towline, and show us your best tricks...

Picnic with a Panoramic View

Outdoors

Let's talk picnics with perks. Imagine savoring your snacks with a killer cityscape at your feet; now that's a Manila must-do! Bring your best foodie finds, a mat, and a camera to capture those 'wish ...

Zip Through the City on a Kalesa Tour

Outdoors

Who needs a time machine when you can hop on a kalesa, am I right? Trot back in time on this charming horse-drawn carriage and clip-clop your way around the historic streets. Feel like a colonial VIP ...

Nibble on Pancit Malabon

Food & Drink

Twirl your fork into the world of Pancit Malabon, where every bite is a fiesta! This vibrant noodle dish comes loaded with a seafood bonanza, hard-boiled eggs, and veggies, all drenched in a flavorful...

Explore the Eclectic Escolta Street

Sights

Time travel to Manila's former business district where Art Deco buildings meet modern-day artsy vibes. Stroll through Escolta Street, once the queen of Manila's commercial streets, now a hub for cool ...

Conquer the Colors of Binondo, Manila's Chinatown

Sights

Step into Binondo and feel the vibe of the oldest Chinatown in the world! Noodle on over to try legit Chinese cuisine, uncover hidden temples, and experience a cultural mélange like no other. It's a f...

Bargain Like a Boss at Divisoria Market

Sights

Flex those haggling muscles and dive into the madness of Divisoria Market! It's the kingdom of cheap finds, from fashionable threads to homeware hauls. Get those comfy shoes on, practice your poker fa...

Dive into the Depths of Manila Ocean Park

Sights

Ready for an underwater escapade? Manila Ocean Park is your go-to spot for meeting sea creatures without getting wet! Walk through the oceanarium, be dazzled by the jellyfish, and say 'hello' to the p...

Jazz Up Your Journey at Rizal Park

Sights

Get ready for some green scene drama at Rizal Park, aka Luneta! Stroll through ornamental gardens, get misty with the musical fountain show, and pay homage to the Philippine hero Jose Rizal. It's rela...

Feast on Halo-Halo

Food & Drink

Beat the tropical heat with Halo-Halo, a kaleidoscope of sweet treats topped with shaved ice and purple yam! This refreshing dessert mixes up everything from beans to jellies and creamy milk. A spoonf...

Munch on Kwek-Kwek

Food & Drink

Dive into the colorful world of Kwek-Kwek, the quirky quail egg snack that's a street food sensation! These deep-fried delights are coated in an orange batter that's both crispy and chewy. Dip 'em in ...

Chomp on Chicken Inasal

Food & Drink

Prepare your taste buds for the zesty char of Chicken Inasal, Bacolod's barbeque delight that's grilled to perfection! This marinated chicken specialty is basted with a delightful mix of calamansi, pe...

Master the Art of Bayanihan

The Unexpected

Get a real taste of Filipino community spirit with Bayanihan! Join locals in a 'Bayanihan' activity, like community cleaning or local charity events. It's all about pitching in and feeling the warmth ...