9 sights and experiences worth your time in Manila, with the practical details you need: hours, prices, how to get there, and when to go.
In short: The top sights in Manila for a first visit are Fort Santiago; Intramuros walls, Casa Manila and Centro de Turismo; and San Agustin Church and Museum. National Museum of the Philippines and Binondo are free. Plan 4 days to see the highlights without rushing.
Built in 1590 on the site of Rajah Sulayman's citadel, this was Manila's main fortress in the Spanish era. It was declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2014.
The old Spanish walled city. Baluarte de San Diego, a 1587 watchtower, is its oldest structure. Casa Manila recreates a wealthy 19th-century family home, and Centro de Turismo Intramuros (opened 2024) tells the city's story inside the rebuilt shell of San Ignacio Church.
A historic Spanish-era church and museum on General Luna Street, one of the gated heritage sites inside the walled city.
Three national museums sit together at the edge of Rizal Park: Fine Arts, Anthropology and Natural History.
A 58-hectare park, one of the largest in the country. The Rizal Monument holds the remains of national hero José Rizal, and there are Chinese and Japanese gardens.
An oceanarium on Manila Bay at the western end of Rizal Park, open since 2008. A good rainy-day stop with kids.
A mosque commissioned in 1976 that became the largest in Metro Manila by the late 20th century. It is a landmark of Quiapo's Muslim community, known locally as Muslim Town.
Founded in 1594, Binondo is often called the world's oldest Chinatown. See Binondo Church (Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz) and Escolta, once the "Wall Street of the Philippines".
A museum on Makati Avenue in the city's main business district, where the Ayala Center malls and Ayala Triangle Gardens are also found.
Hours and prices were checked October 1, 2026 on the sources below and can change. Tour links search Klook and KKday; some earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Yes. Admission is free and walk-ins are welcome. Only groups of 20 or more need to book ahead.
₱75 for regular visitors and ₱50 for students, seniors and persons with disabilities. It opens at 8:00 on weekdays and 6:00 on weekends.
Yes. Wear modest clothing, take off your shoes, and avoid the crowded Friday noon prayer unless you are joining it.
Checked October 1, 2026. Prices, rules and fees change, so confirm before you travel.