Places to Visit in Manila, Philippines

Brief Summary

Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, is a city where old meets new. It’s home to centuries-old Spanish architecture, lively street markets, and one of Asia’s most vibrant nightlife scenes. Whether you’re exploring Intramuros’ historic walls, indulging in local cuisine at Binondo, or relaxing in a rooftop bar overlooking the bay, Manila offers travelers a unique blend of history, culture, and urban energy. This guide highlights the city’s must-visit attractions, practical travel tips, and how to stay connected while you explore with Circles.Life’s roaming add-ons.

About Manila, Philippines

Manila is a vibrant coastal city located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay, serving as the Philippines’ economic, political, and cultural center. Known for its warm hospitality and dynamic mix of colonial heritage and modern attractions, Manila appeals to travelers who enjoy exploring history while staying close to cosmopolitan comforts.

For Singaporean travelers, it’s one of the most accessible destinations in Southeast Asia with just under four hours by flight. Visitors can explore diverse neighborhoods, from the historical Intramuros district to the luxurious shopping centers of Makati and Bonifacio Global City.

Quick Facts Table

Stay Connected While Travelling to Manila

Staying connected in Manila is essential for navigating traffic, booking rides, or finding the best restaurants and attractions. With Circles.Life SIM plans, travelers can skip the hassle of buying a local SIM card and enjoy high-speed data coverage across the Philippines the moment they land by purchasing roaming add-ons as needed.

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Roaming Add-ons for Manila

Steps to Activate Circles.Life Roaming for Manila

1. Open the Circles.Life app.

2. Tap Roaming.

3. Choose your preferred roaming add-on and ensure that the Philippines is included in the list of countries. 

4. Confirm payment.

5. Enable data roaming upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL).

Top Attractions in Manila You Shouldn’t Miss

Manila offers a blend of colonial history, vibrant street life, and modern city energy. Whether you’re exploring centuries-old landmarks, relaxing by the bay, or dining in one of Asia’s most exciting culinary scenes, there’s something for every type of traveler. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in the city:

Intramuros (The Walled City)

Intramuros is Manila’s oldest district and a living reminder of its Spanish colonial past. Cobblestone streets, restored fortresses, and centuries-old churches make it one of the most picturesque parts of the city. A walking or bamboo bike tour is one of the best ways to explore its narrow lanes and historical landmarks.

• Location: Central Manila

• Entry Fee: Free (some sites like Fort Santiago charge a small fee)

• Timings: Open daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: A step back in time to Manila’s Spanish-era architecture and heritage

Rizal Park (Luneta)

Rizal Park is a sprawling urban park dedicated to the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. José Rizal. It’s a peaceful green space in the heart of Manila, ideal for morning walks, picnics, and cultural performances. The park also features fountains, monuments, and a view of Manila Bay.

• Location: Roxas Boulevard, Ermita, Manila

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Why Visit: A historic landmark symbolizing Filipino pride and freedom

Fort Santiago

One of Manila’s most important historical landmarks, Fort Santiago was built during the Spanish colonial era as part of the defense system of Intramuros. It later served as a military base and prison during World War II, where national hero Dr. José Rizal was held before his execution. The site now features museums, gardens, and scenic river views.

• Location: Intramuros, Manila

• Entry Fee: ~₱75 (SGD 1.80)

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: A must-see for history lovers, offering insights into Manila’s colonial and wartime past

Manila Ocean Park

An oceanarium and marine-themed park located near Rizal Park, Manila Ocean Park is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. It features large viewing tunnels, fish-feeding experiences, and even animal shows. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s modern attractions like the Sea Lion Show and indoor snow village.

• Location: Behind Quirino Grandstand, Manila Bay area

• Entry Fee: ~₱600–₱1,000 (SGD 15–25), depending on package

• Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: Great for families and kids who want both fun and educational experiences

National Museum Complex

This cultural hub includes the National Museum of Fine Arts, Natural History, and Anthropology. Visitors can explore everything from centuries-old Filipino art to preserved wildlife and archaeological artifacts. The museum grounds are beautifully designed and free to enter, making them a must for culture lovers.

• Location: Padre Burgos Avenue, Ermita, Manila

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: Showcases the Philippines’ rich artistic, historical, and scientific heritage

Binondo (Manila Chinatown)

Founded in 1594, Binondo is the world’s oldest Chinatown and remains one of the city’s busiest districts. It’s a food lover’s paradise, offering authentic Chinese-Filipino dishes like dumplings, noodle soups, and hopia. A walking food tour is highly recommended to experience its bustling energy and culinary treasures.

• Location: Binondo, Manila

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: Open all day, best visited from 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

• Why Visit: A cultural and gastronomic adventure through centuries of Chinese influence in the Philippines

Mall of Asia (MOA)

One of Asia’s largest malls, SM Mall of Asia offers much more than shopping — it’s a full entertainment complex with restaurants, cinemas, an ice-skating rink, and seaside promenades. The MOA Eye Ferris wheel gives visitors a panoramic view of Manila Bay, especially stunning at sunset.

• Location: Bay City, Pasay (near Manila Bay)

• Entry Fee: Free (charges apply for rides and attractions)

• Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Why Visit: Perfect for leisure, dining, and sunset views by the bay

Manila: What to Know Before You Go!

How to Get to Manila

Manila is served by Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), one of Southeast Asia’s busiest gateways. Direct flights from Singapore take just under 4 hours, making it an easy and affordable weekend or short getaway destination. Most major airlines — including Singapore Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Scoot, and Philippine Airlines — offer daily flights. From the airport, travelers can easily reach the city center via taxi, Grab, or airport transfer services.

Getting Around Manila

Manila’s transport system is diverse, combining traditional and modern options. Grab is the most reliable ride-hailing app for visitors, while taxis and jeepneys offer budget-friendly alternatives. The city’s LRT and MRT train lines connect major districts, though they can be crowded during peak hours. For convenience, it’s best to plan routes in advance and use apps like Google Maps or Move It for real-time updates. Circles.Life users can also look out for lifestyle offers or ride-hailing discounts when available.

Best Time to Visit Manila

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May, when the weather is warm and skies are clear. The cooler months of December to February are ideal for sightseeing, while March to May offers perfect beach weather for nearby destinations like Batangas or Zambales. Avoid visiting from June to October, as this is the rainy season with higher chances of typhoons and flooding.

Where to Stay in Manila

• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in Ermita or Malate offer affordable stays close to major attractions.

• Mid-range: Business hotels and serviced apartments in Makati or Ortigas provide comfort and convenience.

• Luxury: Upscale resorts and five-star hotels in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and Pasay feature rooftop pools, fine dining, and bay views.

Book your accommodation with Agoda through Circles Zerofy in the Circles.Life app to enjoy cashback on top-rated hotels and seamless booking experiences.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Traveling in Manila can be fun and rewarding when you’re prepared. Here are a few practical tips to make your trip smoother:

• Stay connected with a local SIM, eSIM or roaming add-ons. Reliable data makes navigation, bookings, and translations easier, especially when moving between districts.

• Bring a power bank. Between long days out and heavy smartphone use, having backup power is a must.

• Cash vs. card usage. Credit cards are accepted in malls and restaurants, but you’ll need cash for taxis, small eateries, and local markets. ATMs are easy to find across the city.

• Download useful apps. Grab for rides, Klook for activities, Google Maps for directions, and FoodPanda for deliveries can make your trip effortless.

• Be mindful of traffic. Manila’s rush hours (7–10 AM and 4–8 PM) can be intense, so plan sightseeing and airport trips outside these windows.

Travel Smart – Get Roaming Plans Before Travel

Many travelers underestimate how much they rely on mobile data while abroad. Without a roaming plan, you could face expensive SIM purchases, slow Wi-Fi, or unexpected data charges. With Circles.Life, you can stay connected across multiple countries without having to switch between SIMs. 

When preparing for your trip, consider:

• Planning ahead. Activate your plan before you fly so you’re connected as soon as you land.

• Choosing flexibility. eSIMs are ideal for travelers who want instant activation and don’t want to swap SIM cards.

• Avoiding surprises. Fixed roaming add-ons give you predictable costs and hassle-free connectivity, avoiding any bill shocks.

With your roaming plan ready, you can spend less time stressing about Wi-Fi and more time exploring Manila’s street food, heritage districts, and lively bayfront views.