Manila, Philippines-2-day-itinerary

Manila, Philippines 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Intramuros: Start your day by exploring the historic walled city of Intramuros. Walk along the cobblestone streets and visit famous landmarks like Fort Santiago, a Spanish-era fortress that served as a prison for Filipino revolutionaries.
  • San Agustin Church: This stunning Baroque-style church is one of the oldest in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lunch (12:00 pm - 1:30 pm)

  • Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant: Located inside Intramuros, this restaurant serves traditional Filipino dishes like adobo and sinigang. Try their buffet lunch for a variety of options.

Afternoon (2:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

  • National Museum: Learn about the Philippines’ rich history and culture at this comprehensive museum.
  • Rizal Park: Take a stroll around this historic park, also known as Luneta Park, and visit the Rizal Monument, which honors the country’s national hero.

Dinner (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

  • Greenwich Pizza: This popular pizza chain has multiple locations in Manila. Try their Filipino-style pizza flavors like adobo chicken or sisig.

Day 2:

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Binondo (Chinatown): Explore the world’s oldest Chinatown and try some Chinese-Filipino cuisine.
  • Escolta Street: This historic street is lined with old buildings, some of which have been converted into trendy cafes and shops.

Lunch (12:00 pm - 1:30 pm)

  • Wai Ying Fast Food: Try some affordable and delicious Chinese-Filipino dishes like dim sum or congee.

Afternoon (2:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

  • Mall of Asia: This large shopping mall offers a variety of international brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • SM by the Bay: End your day with a stroll along this picturesque baywalk, which offers great views of Manila Bay.

Dinner (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

  • Dampa Seafood Market: This seafood market offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes at affordable prices. Try their grilled fish or seafood rice bowls.

Where to Stay:

  • Hostels: Z Hostel, MNL Boutique Hostel, and The Fort Budget Hotel are all centrally located and offer affordable rates.
  • Hotels: Consider staying in the Ermita or Malate areas for easy access to tourist attractions. Some popular options include City Garden Suites, Lotus Garden Hotel, and Diamond Hotel.

Transportation:

  • Jeepneys: These colorful buses are a popular mode of transportation in Manila. You can flag one down on the street, but be prepared for crowded conditions.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but make sure to use reputable companies like Grab or MNL Taxi.
  • Ride-hailing apps: Grab and Angkas are popular ride-hailing options in Manila.

Things to Know:

  • Traffic: Manila is notorious for its traffic congestion. Plan your itinerary accordingly and leave plenty of time for travel between destinations.
  • Dress modestly: When visiting churches or cultural attractions, dress modestly to show respect.
  • Bargain: Haggling is a common practice in markets and from vendors. Be prepared to bargain for prices.

Tips:

  • Stay hydrated: Manila’s tropical climate can be hot and humid. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Learn some Filipino phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “salamat” (thank you) and “kumusta” (how are you).
  • Be patient: Manila can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. Take your time, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Nightlife: The Poblacion area in Makati is known for its vibrant nightlife scene.
  • Markets: Visit the Divisoria Market or the Baclaran Market for a taste of local shopping culture.
  • Day trips: Consider taking day trips to nearby destinations like Tagaytay, Corregidor Island, or Laguna.