Manila-7-day-itinerary

Manila 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Old Manila Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)
  • 9:00 AM: Check-in at The Bayleaf, a boutique hotel in Intramuros, the walled city of Manila
  • 10:00 AM: Visit Fort Santiago, a 16th-century Spanish fort and former prison of Filipino revolutionaries (PHP 75 entrance fee)
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Barcino Restaurant, a Spanish restaurant in Intramuros
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the Manila Cathedral, a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral built in 1958 (free admission)
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Filipino dinner and watch a cultural show at Bayleaf’s Cafe

Day 2: National Museum and Chinatown

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the National Museum, which houses a vast collection of art, culture, and history (free admission)
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Wokyo, a Chinese restaurant in Binondo
  • 2:00 PM: Explore Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown (free admission)
  • Evening: Try street food and snacks along the way to Chinatown

Day 3: Manila American Cemetery and Memorial

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, a memorial for Allied soldiers who died during World War II (free admission)
  • 11:00 AM: Stop by the nearby Camp O’Donnell Museum, which showcases the history of the camp
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at The Habit, a burger joint with branches in various locations around Manila
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Rizal Park (free admission)

Day 4: Malabon and San Juan

  • 9:00 AM: Take a jeepney ride to Malabon, a historic town known for its art deco buildings (PHP 20 fare)
  • 10:00 AM: Explore the Museo ng Malabon, a museum showcasing the town’s history and culture (free admission)
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Sala Bistro, a Filipino restaurant in Malabon
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby San Juan Church, a stunning Roman Catholic church built in 1628 (free admission)

Day 5: Tagaytay

  • 7:00 AM: Take an early morning bus ride to Tagaytay, a scenic city known for its lakes and mountains (PHP 200 fare)
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Taal Volcano, a stunning volcanic lake with hiking trails (PHP 60 entrance fee)
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Josephine’s Restaurant, a restaurant serving traditional Filipino cuisine
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the nearby Sky Ranch, an amusement park offering stunning views of Taal Lake and Volcano (PHP 150 entrance fee)

Day 6: Roxas Boulevard and Greenhills

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Manila Ocean Park, a marine life theme park with an aquarium and shark tunnel (PHP 250 entrance fee)
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Sbarro’s Pizza, a popular pizza chain in Roxas Boulevard
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the nearby Greenhills Shopping Center, a shopping mall known for its affordable electronics and clothing (free admission)
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise at Bayleaf’s Sunset Cruise

Day 7: Departure

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • 12:00 PM: Check-out of hotel and depart for NAIA airport
  • Evening: Depart from Manila, bringing back memories of your exciting adventure in this vibrant city!

Getting Around

  • Jeepneys (PHP 20-50 fare): Colorful buses that connect major tourist spots throughout the city
  • Tricycles (PHP 10-50 fare): Three-wheeled vehicles that provide quick transportation within cities or towns
  • Taxis: Available, but be sure to use reputable companies like Grab or Uber (PHP 150-200 minimum fare)
  • Walking and cycling are also great ways to explore the city!

Tips and Reminders

  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities
  • Try local street food and snacks, but eat from reputable stalls only
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting cultural or historical sites
  • Bring a valid ID and cash when traveling on public transportation
  • Don’t drink tap water; opt for bottled water instead

Accommodations

  • The Bayleaf: A boutique hotel in Intramuros, ideal for travelers looking for comfort and convenience (PHP 2,500-4,000 per night)
  • Hotel H20: A beachfront resort in Pasay, perfect for families or groups (PHP 3,500-6,000 per night)

Food

Other Interesting Activities

  • Visit the nearby Pasay Science High School, a popular spot for foodies and Instagram enthusiasts
  • Explore the Makati Central Business District, known for its high-rise buildings and trendy bars
  • Visit the iconic Ayala Triangle Gardens, a beautiful green space in the heart of Makati

Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodations: PHP 15,000-30,000 (USD 300-600) for 7 nights
  • Transportation: PHP 2,000-5,000 (USD 40-100) for jeepney and tricycle fares
  • Food: PHP 3,000-6,000 (USD 60-120) per day for meals and snacks
  • Attractions: PHP 1,500-3,000 (USD 30-60) per person for entrance fees and activities

Budget Total: PHP 50,000-100,000 (USD 1,000-2,000)

Note: The above budget breakdown is an estimate and may vary depending on individual preferences and exchange rates.