Manila Philippines 5 Day Itinerary

July 28, 2024

5-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Manila, Philippines

Arrival: Arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)
Transportation: Take a taxi or ride-hailing service to your hotel
Breakfast: Grab breakfast at Jollibee, the famous Filipino fast-food chain, or try a local café like Starbucks or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Intramuros: Visit the walled city of Intramuros, the oldest district in Manila (PHP 75 admission fee)
- Walk along the walls and visit Fort Santiago, a historic fort that once imprisoned Jose Rizal
- Explore the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church, two beautiful churches within the walled city
Luneta: End the day at Luneta Park, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike (free admission)
- Enjoy the views of Manila Bay and the sunset

Try: Try some local street food like balut or kwek-kwek at the stalls near Luneta Park
Recommendation: Head to Kapitolyo, a trendy neighborhood in Ortigas, for dinner at restaurants like M Café, The Good Space, or Alba Restaurant

National Museum: Visit the National Museum (free admission)
- Explore the museum’s collection of Filipino art and artifacts
Malacañang Palace: Take a guided tour of Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the President of the Philippines (PHP 20 admission fee)

Folk Arts: Visit the Museo Pambata, a children’s museum with interactive exhibits on Filipino culture and history
Shopping: Head to Greenhills Shopping Center, a popular shopping mall in San Juan, for some retail therapy

Try: Try some Filipino cuisine like adobo or sinigang at restaurants like Gerry’s Grill or Vikings Buffet

Skydeck: Visit the Skydeck, the highest observation deck in Manila (PHP 200 admission fee)
- Enjoy panoramic views of the city
Ride-sharing: Take a ride-hailing service to your next destination

Ocean Park: Spend the afternoon at Ocean Park, an amusement park with rides and attractions (PHP 400 admission fee for adults, PHP 300 for kids)
- Try some thrilling rides like the Space Shuttle or the Zipper Coaster
- Visit the aquarium and marine life exhibits

Try: Try some international cuisine like Korean BBQ at restaurants like Sinsa Korean Restaurant or Japanese sushi at Sushi-Gen

La Mesa Eco Park: Visit La Mesa Eco Park, a nature reserve with hiking trails and scenic views (PHP 50 admission fee)
- Explore the park’s gardens and wildlife sanctuary
Birdwatching: Try your hand at birdwatching at the nearby Balara Park, a popular spot for bird enthusiasts

Tagaytay: Take a day trip to Tagaytay, a nearby city with stunning views of Taal Lake (PHP 200 bus fare each way)
- Visit the People’s Park in the Sky, a park with great views of the surrounding landscape
- Try some shopping at the Sky Ranch or the Tagaytay Market

Try: Try some local cuisine like sisig or sinuglaw at restaurants like Alba Restaurant or Gerry’s Grill

Manila Baywalk: Spend your last morning in Manila strolling along the Manila Baywalk, a scenic path with great views of the bay
- Take some photos and enjoy the atmosphere
Last-minute shopping: Do some last-minute shopping at the nearby shopping centers like Mall of Asia or Greenhills

Departure: Depart for Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for your return flight home

Try to avoid traveling during rush hour (7-9 am and 4-6 pm) if possible
Be prepared for the heat and humidity, even in air-conditioned spaces
Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or cultural sites
Try some street food, but be aware of the risks of foodborne illness

Taxi: PHP 50-100 for a short ride, PHP 200-300 for a longer ride
Ride-hailing service (e.g. Grab): PHP 50-150 for a short ride, PHP 200-400 for a longer ride
Jeepney: PHP 10-20 for a short ride, PHP 30-60 for a longer ride
Bus: PHP 20-50 for a short ride, PHP 100-200 for a longer ride

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on the time of year and availability.