10 Best Places to Visit in Manila 2025
Manila, as the capital of the Philippines, is not only a modern city, but also a place with rich historical and cultural heritage. In 2025, if you plan to go to Manila, here are some must-see attractions that will add brilliance to your trip, whether it is history, culture, or natural landscape.
1. Intramuros (The Walled City)
Address: Intramuros, Manila
Open Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)
Entrance Fee: Free (Some attractions charge fees)
What to Do:
- Walk or bike around the ancient walls for stunning views.
- Visit Fort Santiago (₱75 entry) – Explore the dungeon where José Rizal was held.
- Tour San Agustin Church & Museum (₱200) – Atitle UNESCO-listed Baroque church.
- Ride a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) for a vintage experience.
- Try Filipino-Spanish food at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant.
2. Manila Cathedral
Address: Cabildo St, Intramuros
Hours: 6:30AM-5:30PM (Mass schedule varies)
Entrance Fee: Free
What to Do:
- Admire the stunning Neo-Romanesque architecture
- Attend mass in this historic cathedral
- See the beautiful stained glass windows
- Visit the crypt and museum
3. Rizal Park (Luneta Park)
Address: Ermita, Manila
Open Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily)
Entrance Fee: Free
What to Do:
- See the Rizal Monument – Pay respects to the national hero.
- Watch the Musical Fountain Show (Evenings, free).
- Visit the National Museum Complex (Free entry).
- Relax in the Chinese & Japanese Gardens.
- Join a morning yoga or Zumba session (locals gather here).
4. National Museum of the Philippines
Address: P. Burgos Ave, Manila
Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
Entrance Fee: Free
What to Do:
- Explore three world-class museums in one complex:
- National Museum of Fine Arts (featuring Juan Luna's Spoliarium)
- National Museum of Anthropology (showcasing Philippine ethnography)
- National Museum of Natural History (with its stunning Tree of Life structure)
- See archaeological treasures like the Laguna Copperplate Inscription.
- Admire architectural grandeur of these historic buildings.
- Join free guided tours (check schedule for 2025).
5. Manila Ocean Park
Address: Quirino Grandstand, Manila
Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
Entrance Fee: Starts at ₱600 (~$11)
What to Do:
- Walk through the Oceanarium Tunnel with sharks & rays.
- Watch the Sea Lion & Penguin Shows.
- Try the Trails to Antarctica experience (interactive snow room).
- Dine with an ocean view at the park's restaurant.
6. Binondo (Chinatown – World's Oldest)
Address: Binondo, Manila
Open Hours: Shops & restaurants vary
Entrance Fee: Free
What to Do:
- Go on a food crawl – Try dumplings at Sincerity Café, hopia at Eng Bee Tin, and lumpia at New Po Heng.
- Visit Binondo Church – A historic Catholic church.
- Shop for cheap souvenirs & lucky charms in Ongpin Street.
- Take a Binondo food tour (guided tours available).
7. SM Mall of Asia (MOA)
Address: Bay Blvd, Pasay (Near Manila)
Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)
Entrance Fee: Free
What to Do:
- Shop at one of Asia's biggest malls (1,000+ stores).
- Watch the sunset at MOA Baywalk.
- Ride the MOA Eye (Ferris Wheel) for city views.
- Try Filipino fast food like Jollibee or Mang Inasal.
8. Makati Museum
Address: Amorsolo St, Makati
Hours: 9AM-6PM (Mon-Fri)
Entrance Fee:Free
What to Do:
- Learn about Makati's transformation
- See exhibits on local history and culture
- View vintage photographs and artifacts
9. Ayala Triangle Gardens
Address: Makati Ave, Makati
Hours: 24/7 (Best daytime/evening)
Entrance Fee:Free
What to Do:
- Enjoy the lush urban park
- Try restaurants like The Wholesome Table
- See the nightly light and sound show (Dec-Feb)
- Join yoga sessions on weekends
10. Manila Baywalk (Sunset Spot)
Address: Roxas Blvd, Manila
Open Hours: 24/7 (Best at sunset)
Entrance Fee: Free
What to Do:
- Watch the famous Manila Bay sunset.
- Dine at a seaside restaurant (try Harbor View).
- Enjoy live music & street performances.
