https://https://au.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/manila/best-things-to-do/100000006889
Best Things to Do
Top 10 Best Things to Do in Manila [2025]
Show All Photos
Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception - The Manila Cathedral
4.6
/5
698 reviews
6.0
1.1 km from downtown
Phone +63285273093
Address: Cabildo, 132 Beaterio St, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Highlights:
Stained glass & Neo-Gothic style
Romanesque arches & religious statues
Saved by 858 users332 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
beautiful cathedral! must see when you’re walking around Intramuros. passing by during weekends gives you an extra treat to see the cathedral dressed up for a wedding
The Manila Cathedral, officially known as the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, is a breathtaking symbol of faith, history, and architectural grace in the heart of Intramuros. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of its interiors—soaring arches, intricate stained-glass windows, and a peaceful atmosphere that invites reflection. The cathedral’s history, having risen from war and natural disasters, makes it even more awe-inspiring.Whethe
Show All Photos
Fort Santiago
4.6
/5
392 reviews
5.7
From £ 0.97
Based on 2,151 reviews
977m from downtown
Phone +63285273155
Address: Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Highlights:
Spanish gatehouse reliefs: governor's tale
Monument symbolizes national liberation
Saved by 505 users207 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Historical park with a lot of greenery. For history enthusiasts, highlights include the Rizal Museum and underground tunnels detailing Japanese atrocities during WWII. You also get a great view of the river.
If you like going to museums and historical sites then definitely Fort Santiago is worth a visit! I would recommend this place for those people visiting Manila. Worth a visit!!
Show All Photos
Manila Ocean Park
4.4
/5
360 reviews
5.5
Based on 2,269 reviews
Manila Bay | 2.4 km from downtown
Phone +63272386188
Address: Quirino Grandstand, 666 Behind, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
No.1 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Manila
Highlights:
25-yard curved underwater tunnel
Spot rare Philippine marine species
Saved by 886 users276 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
I really enjoy seeing aquariums like this. There are quite a lot of shows, including penguins, sea lions, reptiles, and jellyfish. There’s also a special aquarium for sharks. However, I recommend not going on weekends because you’ll have to compete with other visitors for photo spots.
nice and amazing performance im happy na nadala ko ang family ko sa manila ocean park na enjoy din naman nila pumasyal dahil sa ganda ng mga view.
No.
4
Show All Photos
Chinatown
4.4
/5
316 reviews
5.0
Based on 433 reviews
China Town | 265m from downtown
Phone +6322522888
Address: 864 Masangkay St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila, Philippines
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Highlights:
Traditional Chinese goods & streets
Historic Chinese district since 11th century
Saved by 439 users204 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
[View] Not far from the China-Philippine Friendship Gate is Manila Cathedral, and there are many historical attractions nearby. [Fun] There are fewer places to entertain, and try not to go out at night. [Cost-effective] Food accommodation is cost-effective, and there are Chinese restaurant shops everywhere.
absolute a must do in Manilla ❤️you will love the authentic experience, the food and the people.let grab drop you off at the lucky mall, which a really nice mall and beneath the mall there is a food market.
No.
5
Show All Photos
National Museum of Fine Arts
4.4
/5
138 reviews
4.7
Based on 74 reviews
1.7 km from downtown
Phone +63282981100
Address: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Highlights:
Witness history & cultural heritage
Philippine artists' works & bios
Saved by 381 users32% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The National Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit! I love how it preserves so much history while still feeling fresh and inspiring every time. Walking through the grand halls surrounded by masterpieces like Spoliarium always gives me chills. It’s a beautiful, nostalgic spot that reminds me of school trips, but now I appreciate it even more. A timeless gem in the heart of Manila!
This is free for everyone to see. At the entrance, Spoliarium will great you! This is an amazing piece of art. Huge! Inside, you will see all the amazing art pieces by Filipino artist. The atmosphere is good, and temperature is just okay.
No.
6
Show All Photos
Manila Bay
4.4
/5
580 reviews
4.4
Based on 1,175 reviews
25.2 km from downtown
Address: Philippines
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
No.1 of Night Attractions in Manila
Highlights:
The bay glistens under the sun
Seaside Promenade Cycling with Ocean Breeze
Saved by 200 users132 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Oh my god. That sunset. The most amazing view of my life was in Manila Bay. It was a great evening to spend the night with my Philippine friends there.
The view of Manila city can be seen from here. It’s best to visit at dusk when it’s windy and the weather is not too hot. There are many cafés, restaurants, and food vendors as well.
No.
7
Show All Photos
Rizal Park
4.3
/5
283 reviews
4.3
Manila Bay | 2.1 km from downtown
Phone +639199264413
Address: Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
No.2 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Manila
Highlights:
Free nightly concerts outdoors
Rizal statue: symbol of independence
Saved by 248 users25% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Surrounded by multiple national museums covering a wide area and close to Intramuros - two must-visit places in a Manila itinerary.
Rizal Park, or Luneta, is a chill spot in Manila where you can relax and soak in some history. It’s got green spaces, cool monuments like the Rizal Monument, and plenty of room for walks or picnics. Perfect for a break from the city hustle, whether you’re with family or just want to hang out.
1
