Manila-7-day-itinerary

August 30, 2024

7-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Manila

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Intramuros

Morning: Arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and take a taxi or Grab car to your hotel.
Afternoon: Check-in at The Bayleaf Hotel in Intramuros, a historic walled city within Manila.
Evening: Visit the Fort Santiago, a Spanish-era fortress and explore the surrounding area. For dinner, head to Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant for traditional Filipino cuisine.

Day 2: National Museums and Parks

Morning: Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts to learn about Philippine art and history.
Afternoon: Explore the Rizal Park (Luneta Park), a historic urban park with gardens, monuments, and scenic views. For lunch, try Jollibee, a popular Filipino fast food chain.
Evening: Head to the Malate Night Market for a fun evening of shopping, food, and drinks.

Day 3: Manila’s Chinatown and Shopping

Morning: Visit Binondo, Manila’s historic Chinatown, and explore its streets, markets, and temples.
Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs or try some street food at the Divisoria Market.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Wai Ying Fast Food, a popular Chinese restaurant in Chinatown.

Day 4: Manila’s Modern Side

Morning: Visit the Bonifacio Global City (BGC), a modern urban hub with trendy restaurants, shops, and parks.
Afternoon: Explore the Mind Museum, an interactive science museum with unique exhibits. For lunch, try Wild Flour Cafe + Bakery for artisanal bread and sandwiches.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Poblacion, a trendy food park with international cuisine.

Day 5: Day Trip to Tagaytay

Morning: Take a day trip to Tagaytay, a scenic town known for its stunning views of Taal Lake and Volcano.
Afternoon: Visit the Sky Ranch theme park for panoramic views and thrilling rides. For lunch, try Leslie’s for classic Filipino dishes with a view.
Evening: Return to Manila and enjoy dinner at Terry’s Selection, a popular restaurant serving international cuisine.

Day 6: Manila’s Coastal Attractions

Morning: Visit the Manila Ocean Park, an aquarium featuring marine life and interactive exhibits.
Afternoon: Explore the CCP Complex, a waterfront area with cultural attractions, parks, and restaurants. For lunch, try Sebastian’s Ice Cream for unique flavors.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Wharf Seafood Restaurant, a seafood restaurant with waterfront views.

Day 7: Departure

Morning: Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
Afternoon: Check-out of your hotel and head to NAIA for your departure flight.

Things to Know

The Philippines has a tropical climate, so pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection.
Traffic in Manila can be heavy, plan your itinerary accordingly and consider using ride-hailing apps like Grab.
Filipino cuisine is a fusion of different cultures, be adventurous and try new dishes!
Learn some basic Tagalog phrases to show respect for the local culture.

Transportation

Taxi: Available at airports and around the city, but be prepared for heavy traffic.
Ride-hailing Apps: Grab and Angkas are popular options for getting around Manila.
Jeepneys: Colorful public transportation that can be a fun experience, but not always efficient.
Walking: Explore Intramuros and other areas on foot to discover hidden gems.

Tips

Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Bargain at markets, it’s part of the Filipino culture!
Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am, 4-7 pm) to minimize traffic congestion.
Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen to protect yourself from the tropical sun.

Accommodation

The Bayleaf Hotel: A historic hotel in Intramuros with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.
Other options: Consider staying in Makati or Bonifacio Global City for modern amenities and easy access to attractions.

Budget Breakdown

Note: Exchange rates may vary, and prices are estimates.

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, food, and modern attractions that showcase the best of Manila. Enjoy your trip!