Asia Pacific · Philippines
Manila Travel Guide
Last updated March 29, 2026
Manila is a sprawling capital with Spanish colonial churches, the walled city of Intramuros, vibrant street food, and legendary Filipino warmth.
How Do You Get to Intramuros?
Grab from port (10-15 min). Intramuros and Rizal Park are close and avoid worst traffic.
What Can You See?
Intramuros — Spanish walled city. Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral. Walk or horse carriage.
San Agustin Church — UNESCO baroque church from 1607.
Rizal Park — Large public park honouring national hero.
Binondo — World's oldest Chinatown (1594). Excellent food.
Where Should You Eat?
Adobo: National dish — chicken/pork in vinegar, soy, garlic.
Halo-halo: Shaved ice with beans, jelly, ube ice cream.
Worth Exploring Independently?
Intramuros is close to port. Grab is reliable and cheap.
Useful Local Phrases
Kumusta?
How are you?
(koo-moo-STAH)
Salamat po
Thank you (polite)
(sah-LAH-maht poh)
Local Tips
- •Intramuros is the historic heart — Fort Santiago, churches, carriages.
- •Stick to Intramuros and Rizal Park to avoid traffic.
- •Filipino hospitality is genuine and warm.
- •Cash important for smaller places.