Manila
Philippines
Attractions & Events in Manila
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Manila, Philippines
Top Attractions
Baywalk
A scenic promenade along Manila Bay, popular for its sunset views, street performances, and open-air dining.
Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to catch the sunset; be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
Binondo (Chinatown)
Established in 1594, it's the world's oldest Chinatown, known for its vibrant streets, traditional shops, and authentic Chinese-Filipino cuisine.
Tips: Join a food tour to sample a variety of dishes; visit during the Lunar New Year for festive celebrations.
Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)
The premier venue for performing arts in the country, hosting theater productions, concerts, and art exhibitions.
Tips: Check the CCP's official website for event schedules and ticket bookings; dress appropriately for performances.
Fort Santiago
A 16th-century citadel within Intramuros, known for its historical significance and as the site where José Rizal was imprisoned before his execution.
Tips: Explore the Rizal Shrine museum inside the fort to learn more about the national hero's life and works.
Intramuros
The historic walled city of Manila, featuring Spanish-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours and consider hiring a guide to fully appreciate the rich history.
Malacañang Palace
The official residence and workplace of the President of the Philippines, showcasing Spanish colonial architecture and historical artifacts.
Tips: Public tours are limited and require prior arrangement; check the official website for booking details.
Manila Ocean Park
A marine-themed park and oceanarium offering interactive exhibits, marine life shows, and an underwater tunnel experience.
Tips: Ideal for families; purchase tickets online to avoid long queues, and check show schedules in advance.
Rizal Park
A 58-hectare urban park dedicated to national hero José Rizal, featuring gardens, monuments, and open spaces for leisure activities.
Tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat; don't miss the Rizal Monument and the musical fountain show in the evening.
San Agustin Church
The oldest stone church in the Philippines, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Baroque architecture and historical artifacts.
Tips: Check the church's schedule for mass times if you wish to attend; the adjacent museum offers a deeper insight into its history.
SM Mall of Asia
One of the largest shopping malls globally, offering a vast array of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.
Tips: Allocate a full day to explore; don't miss the sunset view along the Seaside Boulevard and the evening fireworks display.
Events & Festivals
Manila International Auto Show
The largest motor show in the Philippines, showcasing the latest car models and automotive innovations.
When: April
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance; allocate a full day to explore all exhibits.
Aliwan Fiesta
A grand festival gathering various cultural festivals from across the Philippines, featuring dance parades and float competitions.
When: April or May
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot; stay hydrated during the festivities.
Intramuros Grand Marian Procession
A grand religious procession featuring over 100 images of the Blessed Virgin Mary from various parts of the country.
When: December
Tips: Arrive early to find a good viewing spot; respect the solemnity of the event.
Metro Manila Film Festival
An annual film festival showcasing exclusively Filipino-made films across all genres.
When: December
Tips: Check the schedule for film screenings; purchase tickets in advance due to high demand.
Feast of the Black Nazarene
A grand religious procession honoring the Black Nazarene, attracting millions of devotees who believe in its miraculous powers.
When: January
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot; wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for large crowds.
Chinese New Year in Binondo
Celebration of the Lunar New Year in Manila's historic Chinatown, featuring dragon and lion dances, fireworks, and traditional Chinese-Filipino foods.
When: January or February
Tips: Check the lunar calendar for exact dates; explore local eateries for authentic cuisine.
Fête de la Musique
A music festival offering free performances around the city, featuring local and international artists across various genres.
When: June
Tips: Explore different venues to experience a variety of musical styles; plan your route in advance.
Manila Day
Celebration of Manila's founding anniversary with parades, performances, and various cultural activities.
When: June
Tips: Check local schedules for specific events; be prepared for road closures during parades.
Metro Manila Pride March
The largest Pride event in the Philippines, promoting LGBTQ+ rights and awareness with parades and festivities.
When: June
Tips: Wear colorful attire; be respectful and supportive of all participants.
Flores de Mayo
A month-long celebration honoring the Virgin Mary, featuring daily processions, flower offerings, and cultural performances.
When: May
Tips: Participate in local community events; wear light clothing suitable for warm weather.
Feast of La Naval de Manila
A festival revolving around the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary of La Naval, featuring processions and religious activities.
When: October
Tips: Attend the procession for a spiritual experience; be mindful of local customs and traditions.
Kalesa Festival
A cultural festival paying tribute to the preservation of traditional horse-drawn carriages, featuring musical performances and parades.
When: September
Tips: Bring a camera to capture the decorated kalesas; enjoy local food stalls during the event.