Manila
Currency: Philippine Peso
Language: Filipino, Tagalog, English
The capital of Philippines and the main gateway to the amazing islands of the country with pristine beaches. The city faces the vast Manila Bay to the west. The city is also known for their Spanish influenced cuisine as well as the crazy malls and casinos.
From Airport to Downtown
The best way is probably taking a private hire vehicle using the app Grab. Prices are affordable although quality of the rides differ a lot. Furthermore, Manila is known for their terrible traffic, cater more time than you expect to get to anywhere, even for a short distance.
Attractions
San Agustin Church
Also known as the Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de Consolacion y Correa or the Immaculate Conception Parish, is a Roman Catholic Church under the auspices of the Order of St. Augustine. It is located inside the walled city and one of the heritage site to see in the city. Built between 1587 and 1606, it is also the only building left intact after the destruction of WWII. Note the fresco on the ceilings and check out the tropical cloisters as well as the slightly shabby gardens out the back. Open daily from 8am to 12pm and 1pm to 6pm.
Fort Santiago
Located on the most northern part of the walled city, this landmark defence fortress feature is one of the must see in Manila. The citadel is built by Spanish navigator and Governor Miguel López de Legazpi. It is closed on Mon and open from 8am to 9pm on other days. It is near the manila cathedral. Tickets cost 75 PHP for adults and 50 PHP for reduced. Once used as a prison dungeon it is now part of a historical park which includes the Plaza Moriones and several ruins.
Baluarte de San Diego
Spanish bastion dated back to 1586, the 16th century. Today the structure is still intact. Open daily from 8am to 5pm. Nowadays it provides a peaceful photo opportunity, with impressive views across the Manila skyline. Nice place for a stroll.
Manila Cathedral
Also known as The Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, it is right in the heart of the walled city. An impressive cathedral. Open from Tuesday-Saturday 8:00-16:30, Sunday 8:00-11:30. Avoid mass timings.
Manila Baywalk
Nice path stretching from the Zoo to the US Embassy as well as Rizal Park it is bordered by outdoor cafes. Nice for pictures and a good place for sunsets.
Rizal Park
A grand 140 acre park right in the city centre. It is rather nice with lawns, gardens as well as outdoor events. The park was created in 1820.
Manila Central Post Office
Often called the Post Office Building, is the main postal office of Manila. It is pretty when look across over the water from Chinatown side. Pretty grand and nice.
Dampa Seaside
Open from 10am to 10.30pm. This popular seafood market is the place to go to for fresh seafood. Walk around the market and grab your seafood, then you can cook them at the nearby restaurant for a small fee. It is an experience over here. One popular choice is the Hongkong Mastercook restaurant which is open from 11am to 10pm or Robbies.
Shopping / Casinos
SM Mall Of Asia
4th largest mall in Manila and 14th in the world. Full of restaurants and shops, visit the hypermarket as well. Open from 10am to 10pm.
Resort World Manila & Newport mall
Casino and Mall integrated resort.
City of Dreams Manila
Casino and Mall integrated resort.
Restaurants
Ying Ying Tea House
Open from 7am to 2am daily
Max’s Restaurant
Chain Restaurant for good Filipino Fried Chicken
Casa Armas Tapas Bar Y Restaurante
573 Julio Nakpil, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines
Good Spanish tapas restaurant near bay walk area. Open from 11am to 12am and only from 6pm on Sundays.
Lydia’s Lechon
551 Service Road, Roxas Blvd, Baclaran, Parañaque, 1709 Metro Manila
Couple more other outlets in the city as well. Serve up one of the city best Lechon, Philippines roasted pork. Open from 9.30am to 10pm.
Cafe Adriatico
Located in SM Mall of Asia. Open from 10am to 11pm and till 12am on Fri and Sat. Popular for serving up a fusion of Philippines and International cuisines. Try their specialities such as the Adobo Rice.
Chow King
Chain restaurant offering Chinese food. Available in numerous place or delivery
Mesa Filipino Moderne
Located in SM Mall of Asia they serve up modern Filipino cuisine. Great food at good prices.
Crisostomo
L104, Blue Bay Walk, Macapagalavenue, Pasay, 1308 Metro Manila, Philippines
Highly recommended Spanish – Philippines cooking. Open daily from 11am to 11pm. There are other outlets available as well in the city. Amazing amount of food. Prices is alright.
Barcino Wine Resto Bar
Located in Newport Mall. Awesome tapas restaurant in the city. Numerous outlet and one at the Newport Mall, Resort World Manila. Open long hours and a must eat over here. Not cheap.
Zubuchon
Located in SM Mall of Asia. Recommended lechon place in Manila. Good place to try the local delight. Open from 10am to 10pm. A must eat and prices are affordable.