Planning a trip to Manila? This complete travel guide covers the best areas to stay, a 5-day itinerary, must-see attractions, restaurants, shopping, and essential travel tips.
🏨 Best Areas to Stay in Manila
- Makati – Luxury hotels, shopping malls, and fine dining.
- Bonifacio Global City (BGC) – Trendy cafes, nightlife, and upscale restaurants.
- Intramuros – The historic core, perfect for culture and history lovers.
- Malate & Ermita – Near Manila Bay, known for cultural attractions and lively nightlife.
- Quezon City – Budget-friendly accommodations with a vibrant food scene.
Pro Tip: Stay in Makati or BGC for modern comforts and safer, walkable environments.
✈️ Mandatory eTravel Registration for Entry
All foreign travelers must register for the Philippines eTravel system before arrival. This online health declaration is mandatory for immigration clearance.
📌 How to Register:
- Visit the official eTravel portal: etravel.gov.ph
- Fill out your personal and travel details.
- Submit the form at least 72 hours before your flight.
- Save the QR code, which will be scanned upon arrival.
❗ Important: Airlines may deny boarding if you do not complete your eTravel registration before departure!
🚆 Transportation Tips
- MRT & LRT Trains – The fastest way to travel, but limited in coverage.
- Jeepneys & Buses – Cheap transport but crowded.
- Grab & Taxis – Best for convenience and safety.
- P2P Buses – Comfortable, air-conditioned express buses.
Tip: Use Grab (like Uber) for safe and hassle-free rides.
🗓️ 5-Day Manila Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Day 1: Historic Manila
- Explore Intramuros, the Spanish-era walled city.
- Visit Fort Santiago, where José Rizal was imprisoned.
- Walk through San Agustin Church, a UNESCO heritage site.
- Discover Filipino-Spanish history at Casa Manila Museum.
- Dinner: Ilustrado – A fine-dining experience in a colonial house.
Day 2: Culture & Museums
- National Museum of the Philippines – Showcasing Filipino history and art.
- Rizal Park – Tribute to the country’s national hero.
- Manila Baywalk – Stunning sunset views.
- Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) – Filipino performing arts.
- Dinner: Café Adriatico – A Filipino-Spanish bistro.
Day 3: Shopping & Food Tour
- Greenbelt & Glorietta – High-end shopping in Makati.
- Divisoria Market – Ultimate budget shopping experience.
- Mercato Centrale BGC – A lively night market with food stalls.
- Binondo (Chinatown) – The world’s oldest Chinatown.
- Dinner: Sincerity Café – Known for its legendary fried chicken.
Day 4: Outdoor Adventures & Day Trips
- Tagaytay – Breathtaking views of Taal Volcano.
- Pinto Art Museum (Antipolo) – Beautiful art + garden landscapes.
- La Mesa Ecopark – Nature walks and fresh air.
- Manila Ocean Park – Marine life experiences.
- Dinner: Antonio’s in Tagaytay – Farm-to-table fine dining.
Day 5: Hidden Gems & Nightlife
- Bambike Ecotours – Bamboo bike tour of Intramuros.
- The Curator – Hidden coffee and cocktail bar.
- Poblacion Makati – Hipster nightlife district.
- Dinner: Toyo Eatery – Modern Filipino fine dining.
📍 Interactive Map: Manila Itinerary Map
🏛️ Must-See Attractions in Manila
- Intramuros – Historic Spanish-era city.
- Fort Santiago – A colonial fortress with a tragic history.
- San Agustin Church – Oldest stone church in the Philippines.
- Manila Baywalk – Iconic sunset viewing spot.
- National Museum of Fine Arts – Showcasing Filipino art.
- Divisoria Market – The best place for bargain shopping.
- Pinto Art Museum – A scenic art gallery with nature views.
🎒 Essential Travel Tips
- Public Transport – Grab rides are safer than taxis.
- Weather – Hot & humid—wear light clothing and stay hydrated.
- Safety – Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep valuables secure.
- Local Etiquette – Filipinos are friendly; a simple “salamat” (thank you) is appreciated.
- Cash vs. Cards – Many places accept cards, but cash is needed for street vendors.
🌏 Manila Awaits!
From Spanish-era streets to modern skyscrapers, Manila is a city of contrasts waiting to be explored. Follow this guide to make the most of your 5-day adventure!
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