Manila, Philippines-5-day-itinerary

Manila, Philippines 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Intramuros and Old Manila

  • Morning: Start at Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. Walk along the cobblestone streets and visit:
    • Fort Santiago (₱75 entrance fee)
    • San Agustin Church (free admission)
    • Palacio del Gobernador (free admission)
  • Lunch: Try Filipino cuisine at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant (₱500-800 per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Manila Cathedral (free admission)
    • Explore the nearby Plaza Roma
  • Evening: Head to Roxas Boulevard and enjoy the sunset at the Baywalk

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostel 99 (starts at ₱600 per night)
  • Mid-range: White Knight Hotel (starts at ₱2,500 per night)
  • Luxury: The Manila Hotel (starts at ₱6,000 per night)

Transportation:

  • Jeepneys: Affordable and iconic transportation in Manila (₱10-20 per ride)
  • Taxis: Available but be prepared to negotiate prices
  • Ride-hailing apps: Grab or Go-Van are popular options

Tips:

  • Be mindful of traffic and plan your itinerary accordingly
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking in Intramuros
  • Try to avoid traveling during rush hour (7-10 am, 4-7 pm)

Day 2: Museums and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum (free admission)
  • Lunch: Head to nearby Greenbelt 3 and try:
    • Via Mare (₱500-800 per person)
    • Wild Flour Cafe + Bakery (₱300-500 per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the Ayala Museum (₱425 entrance fee)
    • Visit the nearby Greenhills Shopping Center
  • Evening: Enjoy a cultural show at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (₱500-1,000 per ticket)

Things to Know:

  • The National Museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
  • Ayala Museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month

Day 3: Markets and Street Food

  • Morning: Visit the Divisoria Market (free admission)
  • Lunch: Try street food at the market or head to:
    • Sincerity Cafe (₱200-300 per person)
    • Mang Inasal (₱150-250 per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the nearby 168 Mall
    • Visit the Baclaran Market (free admission)
  • Evening: Enjoy a night market at the Greenhills Night Market (free admission)

Tips:

  • Be prepared to haggle prices at markets
  • Try popular street food like balut, kwek-kwek, and fish balls

Day 4: Nature Escapes

  • Morning: Visit the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (₱30 entrance fee)
  • Lunch: Head to:
    • The Farmhouse (₱500-800 per person)
    • The Henry Hotel’s Apartment 1B (₱300-500 per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the Manila Zoo (₱50 entrance fee)
    • Visit the nearby Arroceros Forest Park (free admission)
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset view at the Baywalk

Transportation:

  • Jeepneys: Available for Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
  • Taxis: Recommended for Manila Zoo and Arroceros Forest Park

Day 5: Shopping and Leisure

  • Morning: Visit the SM Mall of Asia (free admission)
  • Lunch: Head to:
    • Vikings Luxury Buffet (₱800-1,200 per person)
    • Gong Cha (₱150-250 per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the nearby Star City amusement park (₱80 entrance fee)
    • Visit the Mall of Asia Arena for events and concerts
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza’s Sunset Lounge

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds at SM Mall of Asia
  • Book tickets in advance for events and concerts at the Mall of Asia Arena