7 days in Manila, Philippines: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Manila, the capital and powerhouse of the Philippines, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. The bustling metropolis is your gateway to some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders and picturesque islands. As a vibrant, ever-evolving city, Manila has an infectious energy that will enthrall you, with its sprawling skyscrapers, historic sites like Intramuros, engaging museums, and a culinary scene that’s an irresistible mix of Filipino, Spanish, and Chinese influences. Get ready to dive into the heart of the Philippines and discover the wonder that is Manila!
Things to consider before arriving in Manila
Affordable cost of living: Your wallet will love the relatively low cost of living in Manila, which makes it an ideal destination for budget travelers.
Welcoming locals: Filipinos are known for their warmth and friendly spirit. Expect a hearty “Mabuhay” (welcome) when you arrive!
Traffic congestion: Manila is infamous for its heavy traffic, so be prepared to face long travel times and consider alternative modes of transport like the MRT, LRT, or Grab rides.
Ideal for: Foodies, history buffs, and urban explorers will feel right at home in Manila’s exciting mix of old and new.
What to bring with you
1. Light and breathable clothing: Manila’s tropical climate can be hot and humid, so make sure to pack comfortable, lightweight clothes.
2. Umbrella: A compact umbrella will come in handy for both sudden rain showers and sun protection.
3. Power adapter: The Philippines uses type A, B, and C electrical sockets, so pack an adapter accordingly.
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Manila is during the dry months of December to February when the weather is cooler and less humid. Avoid the peak of the rainy season, typically from June to September, as typhoons and heavy rainfall are common.
How to get into the city
1. By air: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) serves as Manila’s main gateway and connects the city to several international and domestic destinations. After landing, you can take a taxi, Grab, or use a shuttle service to get to your accommodation.
2. By sea: The Port of Manila handles several passenger services from neighboring provinces. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride as you approach the city!
3. By land: If you’re arriving from neighboring provinces or cities, you can take a bus to one of Manila’s major terminals, such as the Pasay or Cubao bus stations. From there, local transportation options are readily available to help you reach your destination.
7 day city guide trip in Manila
Day 1 – Old City Intramuros
Start your day by visiting the walled city of Intramuros, which is full of history and Spanish colonial architecture. Visit Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and San Agustin Church. Grab lunch at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant for some traditional Filipino food. In the afternoon, take a bamboo bike tour and explore the city walls.
Day 2 – Art and Culture
Head to the National Museum of Anthropology and learn about the country’s rich history. Then, explore the contemporary art scene at the Pinto Art Museum. For dinner, head to Purple Yam for some delicious Filipino cuisine.
Day 3 – Makati and Shopping
Spend the morning exploring the upscale neighborhood of Makati and visit the Ayala Museum. In the afternoon, go shopping at Greenbelt Mall or Glorietta Mall. For dinner, try the famous Adobo at Manam.
Day 4 – Day Trip to Taal Lake and Volcano
Take a day trip to Taal Lake, where you can go on a boat ride and hike up the volcano. Return to Manila in the evening and head to the Blackbird Restaurant in Ayala Triangle for a fancy dinner.
Day 5 – Chinatown and Parks
Explore the bustling Chinatown of Binondo and visit the famous Seng Guan Temple. Then, take a stroll through Rizal Park and watch the sunset at Manila Bay. For dinner, try some Chinese street food at Wai Ying.
Day 6 – Bonifacio Global City and Nightlife
Spend the day in the modern financial district of Bonifacio Global City and visit the Mind Museum and the Venice Grand Canal Mall. At night, head to The Palace for drinks and dancing.
Day 7 – Manila Bay Cruise and Market
Take a relaxing Manila Bay sunset cruise and enjoy the views of the city skyline. Then, head to the Salcedo Market for some delicious food and souvenir shopping.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Manila
If you have more time in the Philippines, consider taking a trip to Cebu City, which is known for its beaches and diving spots. Alternatively, head to Baguio City, also known as the “City of Pines”, which is a mountain resort town with a cooler climate and stunning views. To get to Cebu, you can take a direct flight from Manila, which takes around an hour. To get to Baguio, you can take a taxi or bus from Manila, which takes around 6 hours.
