Manila, Philippines-6-day-itinerary

August 6, 2024

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Arrival: Arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or Manila’s other airport Terminal.
Transportation: Take a taxi, ride-hailing app, or public transportation like the LRT or MRT to your hotel. Be sure to check the traffic situation before heading out.
Check-in: Get settled in at your accommodation. Some good options are:
- The Bayleaf - A boutique hotel with a great view of Manila Bay.
- Hotel H2O - A modern hotel that offers stunning views of the city.

Intramuros: Head to Intramuros, the walled city. You can walk or take a tricycle there from your hotel.
San Agustin Church: Visit this beautiful 16th-century church and museum complex.
Fuerza: Take a stroll along the ancient fortifications of Fuerza de Santiago.

Dinner: Grab dinner at Barrio Fiesta - A popular spot for Filipino cuisine. Try their famous Kare-Kare or Lechon Kawali.

National Museum: Spend the morning exploring the National Museum, which features a diverse collection of Philippine art and history.
Manila Cathedral: Visit this historic cathedral that played a significant role in Philippine independence. Be sure to check out its intricate interior details.

Chinatown: Explore Manila’s vibrant Chinatown area, known for its shops selling traditional Chinese medicines, souvenirs, and delicious food.
Lucky Chinatown Mall: Visit this large shopping mall for a more modern take on Chinatown culture.

Dinner: Try Dimsum Break - A popular spot for dim sum. Order their steamed dumplings and other Chinese delicacies.
Nighttime Manila Baywalk: Take a romantic stroll along the Manila Baywalk, which offers stunning views of the city at night.

Bonifacio Global City (BGC): Visit BGC, one of the city’s modern business districts. Enjoy the upscale restaurants and cafes.
The Mind Museum: Spend some time at The Mind Museum, a science museum with interactive exhibits.

Greenhills Shopping Center: Head to Greenhills, a popular shopping center that features a mix of local and international brands.
High Street: Take a walk down High Street, the main strip in BGC that’s known for its vibrant nightlife and upscale dining options.

Dinner: Grab dinner at Poblacion Cafe - A cozy spot serving Filipino comfort food. Try their famous sinigang or adobo.
Nightlife in BGC: Experience the city’s nightlife scene with a visit to some of the popular bars and clubs in the area.

Tagaytay: Take a day trip to Tagaytay, a nearby city known for its cool climate. Visit Taal Lake and enjoy the scenic views.
Sky Ranch: Ride the Sky Eye at Sky Ranch for panoramic views of the area.

People’s Park in the Sky: Explore this historic park built by the Americans to honor Emilio Aguinaldo, a Philippine revolutionary leader. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and lake views.
The Pink Sisters’ Convent: Visit the convent, which is home to the famous pink sisters who run a popular restaurant serving delicious Filipino dishes.

Dinner: Try Balay Dako - A cozy spot serving traditional Filipino cuisine. Order their adobo or sinigang.
Sunset in Tagaytay: Enjoy the stunning sunset views from any of the scenic spots around the city.

Rizal Park: Visit Rizal Park, one of the largest urban parks in Asia. Explore its beautiful gardens and monuments.
Manila Ocean Park: Spend some time at the Manila Ocean Park, an aquarium featuring a variety of marine life.

Power Plant Mall: Head to the Power Plant Mall, a shopping center that features a mix of local and international brands. Enjoy the upscale dining options.
Roxas Boulevard: Take a stroll along Roxas Boulevard, which offers stunning views of Manila Bay and the city skyline.

Dinner: Grab dinner at Cibo Cafe - A cozy spot serving Italian-Filipino cuisine. Order their famous pasta dishes or pizza.
Nighttime Roxas Boulevard: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere along Roxas Boulevard, which comes alive with music and lights in the evening.

Greenhills Shopping Center: Visit Greenhills for some last-minute shopping. This mall is known for its affordable prices on electronics, clothes, and souvenirs.
Robinsons Place Manila: Spend some time at Robinsons Place Manila, a large shopping center that features a mix of local and international brands.

Departure: Head back to the airport or your next destination. If you have time, visit any last-minute attractions or do some souvenir shopping.
Transportation: Take a taxi, ride-hailing app, or public transportation like the LRT or MRT back to the airport.

Use a ride-hailing app like Grab or Uber for a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
Hire a private car with driver for a more personalized experience. This can be arranged through your hotel or a car service provider.
Take the LRT or MRT for an affordable way to travel across the city.

The Philippines is a tropical country and the weather in Manila can be hot and humid throughout the year.
Be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during rush hour.
Try the local cuisine, which is known for its delicious flavors and spices.

Book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
Choose a hotel that offers a good view of the city or a nearby attraction.
Consider staying in a boutique hotel or a modern apartment complex for a more personalized experience.

This itinerary should give you a good balance of culture, history, and modernity as you explore Manila. Enjoy your trip!