Thrilla in Manila: The bustling metropolitan region of the Philippines blends heritage, modern city life & local charm.
Metro Manila is the Philippines’ capital region, shaped by centuries of history and home to over 15 million people. Once a Spanish colony, the National Capital Region (NCR) boasts a wealth of cultural and historical landmarks, while modern city life thrives alongside everyday local charm. As the country’s main international gateway, it offers a wide range of neighbourhoods and experiences across 16 highly urbanised cities.
Visiting here soon and wondering what to do? Born and educated in Manila, I’ve put together this guide to the best things to do in the capital region over a 3–4 day itinerary.
Table of Contents
A local’s guide to the best things to do in Metro Manila
1. Go back in time in Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled city
A visit to Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila. Photo: Jake Nuqui
Let’s kick off this list with one of my favourite places – Intramuros, the oldest district of Manila. This historic enclave is filled with centuries-old churches, Spanish colonial architecture, and fortifications, including Fort Santiago, where Dr. José Rizal was imprisoned before his execution. To explore the area, visitors can join guided walking tours, bike tours, or even ride electric chariots for an easy introduction to the Philippines’ rich past.
The façade of Manila Cathedral in Intramuros. Photo: Lord Acuña
Beyond its landmarks, Intramuros is also home to institutions such as Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Mapúa University and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, and one of the country’s oldest secondary schools, Manila High School.
What to see: Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Casa Manila
Cost: From ₱75
The memories of my university days in Manila are some of the best. The capital region of the Philippines is rich in culture and tradition, with so much to offer. I still hope it will one day become one of Southeast Asia’s top cities. Maynila, mahal kita!
2. Visit Rizal Park, a significant historical site
The Chinese Garden at Rizal Park. Photo: Lord Acuña
Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, is a 58-hectare urban park in Manila featuring gardens, monuments, and museums. It’s the site where José Rizal, our national hero, was executed – now marked by a monument in his honour. The memorial is guarded by Marine Corps personnel around the clock, with a daily Changing of the Guard ceremony at 16:00. Free to enter, the park is a favourite spot for local families to relax, fly kites, and enjoy picnics, especially on weekends. Fun fact: The Philippines’ Kilometre Zero marker is also located here.
Location: Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
Cost: Free
3. Immerse yourself in Chinese culture in Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown
Entrance to Manila Chinatown. Photo: Lord Acuña
Known for its rich Filipino-Chinese heritage, Binondo is a lively district filled with bustling street markets and one of Manila’s best food scenes. Established in 1594, it is the world’s oldest Chinatown and a living testament to centuries of Chinese influence in the Philippines.
(L) Murals on the ceiling of Binondo Church. (R) A Sto. Niño statue in the church. Photo: Lord Acuña
For a true foodie experience, you can join a 3-hour Binondo food tour, with Binondo Church as the meeting point. It features local staples such as fresh lumpia, handmade dumplings, mami (noodle soup), classic dim sum, and flaky hopia. The best part? Joining this tour supports local communities through sustainable tourism.
Duration: 3 hours (09:00 – 12:00)
Cost: ₱4,010
4. Get cultured at our National Museums
Photo: National Museum of the Philippines
The National Museum comprises three institutions: the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of Natural History. Admission to all three is free.
Fine Arts showcases works by 19th-century Filipino masters, National Artists, and more. The undisputed highlight here is Spoliarium, Juan Luna’s iconic masterpiece. Anthropology features ethnographic, terrestrial and underwater archaeological collections that trace the Philippines’ story through artefacts. Lastly, Natural History highlights the Philippines’ biological and geological diversity. At its centre stands the “Tree of Life”, symbolically linking ecosystems from mountain ranges to marine reefs.
Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00
Cost: Free
5. Explore the beautiful Bonifacio Global City
Photo: Bonifacio Global City
Another favourite of mine is Bonifacio Global City, where I worked for six years before moving to Singapore. Located in Taguig, BGC is a modern financial and lifestyle district known for its walkable streets, organised layout, and lively urban vibe. This area blends offices, residences, shopping, and dining seamlessly. Key spots include Bonifacio High Street, Burgos Circle, SM Aura Premier, Mitsukoshi, and Uptown Mall.
There’s plenty to see and do here, and I’ll be putting together a dedicated BGC guide very soon.
6. Party the night away in Makati
Photo: Monarch Manila
Looking for a lively nightlife scene? Head to Poblacion in Makati, often considered the city’s cultural hub. This neighbourhood is packed with buzzing bars, cosy cafés, creative spaces, and hidden gems, making it a go-to spot for dining, drinks, and late-night exploring. Some of the crowd-favourite clubs and bars include Royal Club Makati, Secret Door, and Monarch Manila.
7. Go shopping at the sprawling Mall of Asia + visit its amusement park
Mall of Asia in Pasay, the biggest mall in the Philippines and second-largest in Southeast Asia, is a shopper’s paradise. With hundreds of shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities, it’s easy to spend an entire day in MOA. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a large steel-framed globe on a roundabout. And on the other side of the mall is SM by the Bay Amusement Park, where you can catch the sunset over Manila Bay from the top of the MOA Eye.
Mall opening hours: 10:00 – 22:00
Amusement Park opening hours: 13:00 – 01:00
Cost: ₱402
8. Dine at the Michelin-starred restaurants
Photo: Helm, Hapag, Toyo Eatery, and Linamnam
Manila is now home to eight Michelin-starred restaurants, putting the city firmly on the global gastronomic map. These establishments highlight the best of local ingredients, celebrate regional recipes, and preserve traditional techniques, all while pushing culinary boundaries. The result is a fresh, inventive, and exciting take on Filipino flavours.
✿✿ 2 Michelin Stars: Helm
✿ 1 Michelin Star: Celera, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Inatô, Kasa Palma, Linamnam and Toyo Eatery
9. Try the iconic Jollibee
Photo: Jollibee
Looking for a more casual bite? Swing by your nearest Jollibee – the Philippines’ very own fast-food chain. Even if you’ve tried Jollibee abroad, the local version has a unique flavour that just hits differently. Don’t miss the classic Chickenjoy and Yumburger, perfect for a quick and tasty refuel before continuing your Manila adventure.
10. Make a side trip to the beaches
Need a break from Manila’s traffic? The good news is that some of the Philippines’ best beaches are just a short flight from Manila. In as little as one to two hours, you can swap city streets for pristine sand and turquoise waters. Popular side trips include Boracay for its powdery white sand beaches, Palawan for dramatic limestone landscapes, Siargao for laid-back island vibes and surfing, and Bohol for its rich marine life and diving spots.
Where to stay: The best hotels in Metro Manila
Some travellers value their accommodation just as much as their itinerary. If you’re the type who prefers a comfortable, hassle-free stay, here’s a curated list of top hotels spread across Metro Manila.
1. Shangri-La at The Fort, Taguig
Photo: Shangri-La at The Fort
Towering over Bonifacio Global City, Shangri-La at The Fort offers contemporary rooms and suites with panoramic city views and subtle Filipino design accents. Its location places guests right in the middle of BGC’s shopping, dining, and lifestyle scene. It is ideal for travellers who prefer a modern, walkable neighbourhood.
Type: 5-star hotel
Location: 30th Street corner 5th Ave, Taguig, Metro Manila
Average cost: ₱17,200++ / night
2. The Peninsula Manila, Makati
What an opulent lobby! Photo: The Peninsula Manila
Located in the heart of Makati’s central business district, The Peninsula Manila is a long-standing icon of luxury. Known for its refined service, elegant rooms, and excellent dining, it is popular with both discerning locals and international travellers. The hotel’s grand lobby alone makes a lasting first impression.
Type: 5-star hotel
Location: 1226 Makati Ave, Makati City, Metro Manila
Average cost: ₱14,000++ / night
3. Okada Manila, Parañaque
The muti-coloured dancing fountain. Photo: Okada Manila
Just 10–15 minutes from the airport, Okada Manila offers refined comfort across its 1,001 rooms, suites, and villas. Choose between sweeping views of Manila Bay or the mesmerising choreography of The Fountain, one of the largest in the world.
Type: 5-star integrated resort
Location: Entertainment City, New Seaside Dr, Parañaque, Metro Manila
Average cost: ₱10,200++ / night
4. Solaire Resort North, Quezon City
Photo: Solaire Resort North
Solaire Resort North is a 1.5-hectare property in the heart of Quezon City, the largest city in Metro Manila. The 38-storey tower houses 526 rooms and suites, plus 14 dining venues from casual cafés to premium bars. Its location places you close to cultural landmarks such as Quezon Memorial Circle and Bantayog ng mga Bayani.
Type: 5-star integrated resort
Location: Vertis North, 1 Solaire Way, Quezon City, 1105 Metro Manila
Average cost: ₱9,500++ / night
5. Marco Polo Ortigas, Pasig
Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge Photo: Marco Polo Ortigas
Marco Polo Ortigas features well-appointed rooms overlooking the Ortigas skyline and nearby valleys. Situated in the Ortigas business district, it’s within easy reach of shopping malls, restaurants, and public transport. One of its highlights is the rooftop bar, where you can enjoy city views alongside live entertainment and DJ sets.
Type: 5-star hotel
Location: Meralco Avenue, Sapphire Rd, Ortigas Center, Pasig, Metro Manila
Average cost: ₱6,300++ / night
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