Manila-3-day-itinerary

Manila 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: History and Culture

  • Morning: Start your day at the National Museum (open from 10am-5pm) to learn about the country’s rich history and culture. The museum is located in Ermita, Manila.
  • Lunch: Head to Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant (open from 11am-10pm) in Intramuros for a taste of traditional Filipino cuisine. Try their famous adobo and sinigang!
  • Afternoon: Visit Fort Santiago (open from 8am-9pm), a historic fort that served as a prison for Filipino revolutionaries during the Spanish era.
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Manila Baywalk, a scenic waterfront area with great views of the sunset. You can also visit the nearby Malate Night Market (open from 6pm-1am) for some shopping and street food.

Accommodation Suggestion: Stay at the White Knight Hotel Intramuros, which offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool with great views of the city.

Day 2: Shopping and Entertainment

  • Morning: Visit the famous Greenhills Shopping Center (open from 10am-10pm) in San Juan for some affordable shopping. You can find everything from clothes to souvenirs here.
  • Lunch: Try some international cuisine at the food court of Greenbelt Mall (open from 11am-10pm) in Makati. This mall is also a great place to shop and relax.
  • Afternoon: Catch a movie or attend an event at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), a iconic building that hosts various performances and exhibitions.
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Poblacion, Makati by visiting bars like NoKal, OTO, and Polilya.

Tip: Be mindful of your belongings when shopping at Greenhills, as it can get crowded.

Day 3: Food Trip and Leisure

  • Morning: Visit the Salcedo Saturday Market (open from 7am-2pm) in Makati for a food trip like no other. Try some artisanal bread, fresh fruits, and Filipino delicacies.
  • Lunch: Head to Jollibee (multiple locations), a popular fast-food chain that serves local favorites like chickenjoy and yumburger.
  • Afternoon: Relax at the Rizal Park (open from 5am-10pm) in Ermita, a historic park with plenty of green space. You can also visit the nearby Manila Zoo (open from 9am-6pm).
  • Evening: End your trip with a dinner cruise at the Manila Bay Cruise (departure times vary), which offers stunning views of the city skyline.

Things to Know:

  • The traffic in Manila can be heavy, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines when visiting popular attractions.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting historical sites.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9am and 4-7pm) to minimize traffic congestion.

Transportation:

  • Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Uber to get around the city.
  • Take a jeepney or bus for a more affordable option.
  • Walk or bike when possible, but be mindful of pedestrian safety.

Other Tips:

  • Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen, as the Manila sun can be intense.
  • Learn some basic Filipino phrases to show respect for the culture.
  • Be open-minded and flexible, as things don’t always go as planned in Manila!