Manila Philippines 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Manila, Philippines

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Makati

  • Morning: Arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and take a taxi or GrabCar to your hotel in Makati.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ayala Museum to learn about Filipino history and art. Then, walk around Greenbelt Park, a popular spot for shopping and dining.
  • Evening: Head to Poblacion, a trendy neighborhood with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Try Antonio’s for dinner, serving modern Filipino cuisine.

Day 2: Intramuros and Manila Cathedral

  • Morning: Take a jeepney or taxi to Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. Visit Fort Santiago, a historic Spanish fort.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Manila Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, serving traditional Filipino dishes.

Day 3: National Museum and Rizal Park

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum to learn about the country’s history, art, and culture.
  • Afternoon: Stroll around Rizal Park (Luneta), a historic urban park with beautiful gardens and monuments.
  • Evening: Try Jollibee, a popular Filipino fast-food chain.

Day 4: Tagaytay Day Trip

  • Morning: Take a bus or van from Manila to Tagaytay, a scenic town known for its stunning views of Taal Lake and Volcano. ( approx. 2-3 hours)
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Josephine’s, serving Filipino cuisine with a view.
  • Evening: Return to Manila and explore the nightlife in Bonifacio Global City.

Day 5: Binondo Food Wok and Chinatown

  • Morning: Visit the Binondo Food Wok, a popular food destination with a variety of Filipino-Chinese dishes.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown, one of the oldest in the world. Try some street food and shop for souvenirs.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Wai Ying Fast Food, serving affordable and delicious Chinese-Filipino cuisine.

Day 6: Manila Ocean Park and Star City

  • Morning: Visit the Manila Ocean Park, an aquarium featuring a variety of marine life.
  • Afternoon: Head to Star City, an amusement park with thrill rides and attractions.
  • Evening: Try Solaire Resort & Casino for dinner, offering international cuisine and entertainment options.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market like the San Andres Market.
  • Afternoon: Return to NAIA for your departure flight.

Accommodation Options:

  • Budget-friendly: Z Hostel, MNL Boutique Hostel
  • Mid-range: I’M Hotel, Novotel Manila Araneta Center
  • Luxury: Shangri-La at the Fort, Raffles Makati

Transportation:

  • Jeepneys: a popular and affordable way to get around the city.
  • Taxis: readily available but be prepared for traffic.
  • GrabCar/Uber: convenient ride-hailing services.
  • Walking: Manila is a walkable city, but be mindful of pedestrian infrastructure.

Tips and Essentials:

  • Weather: Manila can be hot and humid. Pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.
  • Language: Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English are widely spoken.
  • Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in many establishments.
  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid traveling alone at night.

Other Things to Know:

  • Manila is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant culture and rich history.
  • Be prepared for traffic congestion and construction delays.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting historical sites and churches.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-10 am, 4-7 pm) to minimize traffic.

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, food, and entertainment, giving you a well-rounded experience of Manila. Enjoy your trip!