What are the famous sights and landmarks in the country’s premier city, Manila?
- Travel back in time by visiting Intramuros
- Visit the historic Rizal Park
- Explore the art pieces in the National Museum of The Philippines
- Go on a gastronomic food trip in Binondo
- Enjoy the Manila Ocean Park
- Explore the San Lazaro Tourism and Business Park
- Watch the Manila Bay Sunset at Roxas Boulevard
Planning to visit Manila anytime soon? Here are seven famous Manila sights and landmarks you should add to your itinerary.
Manila is known for being congested, but that doesn’t stop travelers from navigating the wonders of the city. As you would expect from the capital city of the Philippines, Manila is packed with plenty of interesting sights. Anyone who visits the city will never run out of things to do. You’re bound to fall in love with its old colonial Spanish forts, vibrant dining scenes, fun oceanariums, perfectly manicured outdoor gardens, and more.
Travel Back In Time By Visiting Intramuros
If you want to see a well-preserved historical attraction in Manila, head to Intramuros.
Intramuros, also known as the “Walled City,” is one of the oldest landmarks in Manila. It was built by Spaniards with walls 22-feet high to serve as a defense against foreign invaders. Once you visit Intramuros, you will feel as if you traveled back in time to the Spanish Era.
Ride a kalesa (a horse-drawn carriage) to wander around these must-visit sights in and around Intramuros:
- Fort Santiago
- Manila Cathedral
- San Agustin Church
- Plaza de Roma
- Casa Manila
- Baluarte de San Diego
- Bahay Tsinoy
Visit The Historic Rizal Park
Situated in the heart of Manila is Rizal Park (formerly known as Luneta). The Rizal Park is a homage to the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal. He was a novelist and doctor who was executed through a firing squad back on December 30, 1896. This ultimately sparked the Philippine Revolution against Spain.
Rizal Park is filled with ornamental gardens, monuments, ponds, paved walkways, fountains, playgrounds, and food kiosks. Visit this attraction if you want to stroll around Manila’s famous landmarks.
Explore The Art Pieces In The National Museum of The Philippines
For those who want to truly explore the country’s rich culture, visiting the National Museum of the Philippines is a must.
The National Museum of the Philippines is divided into different complexes: Fine Arts, Anthropology, Natural History, and Planetarium. Each one features various art collections that represent the country’s art, culture, and history.
National Museum of Fine Arts
The art collections found in the National Museum of Fine Arts include classical and contemporary Filipino paintings and sculptures. One of the must-see pieces here is The Spoliarium by artist Juan Luna.
National Museum of Anthropology
The National Museum of Anthropology features artifacts of Philippine anthropology and archaeology. Here, you’ll find the oldest Philippine script known as the “Baybayin” as well as the other cultural items of native people.
National Museum of Natural History
Explore the country’s rich biodiversity through the National Museum of Natural History. Some of the exhibits here include Lolong’s skeleton (the world’s largest caught crocodile) and The Tree of Life.
National Planetarium
See astronomical displays of celestial bodies and experience full-dome planetarium shows at the National Planetarium.
Go On A Gastronomic Food Trip In Binondo
One of the best things to do in Manila is to have a gastronomic trip. And what better way to have a food trip than visiting Binondo?
Binondo is a historical district in Manila known as Chinatown. Like other Chinatowns across the world, Binondo is filled with hole-in-the-wall food spots, traditional bakeries, and budget-friendly street food. Don’t leave Binondo without feasting on authentic Chinese food like dumplings, oyster cake, stir fry tofu, hopia, and more.
Enjoy The Manila Ocean Park
Home to more than 14,000 marine creatures, the Manila Ocean Park is a must-see attraction on the list. See different types of marine life and enjoy the interactive shows offered!
Explore The San Lazaro Tourism And Business Park
The San Lazaro Tourism and Business Park is a 16-hectare mixed-use property originally developed by the Manila Jockey Club Investments Corporation. The site took its name from the touted horse racetrack back in 1912, which is the San Lazaro Hippodrome.
The site will be developed by Megaworld Manila into a modern township complete with residential condos like the Kingsquare Residential Suites, shopping centers, office complexes, and hotel brands.
Watch The Manila Bay Sunset At Roxas Boulevard
Roxas Boulevard is a famous walkway by the bay in Manila. In this two-kilometer promenade, you’ll find plenty of coconut trees, street performers, al-fresco cafes and restaurants, and manicured gardens. To perfectly end your day in the capital city of the Philippines, stroll along Roxas Boulevard and watch the stunning Manila Bay Sunset.
Key Takeaway
What are you waiting for? Add these famous Manila sights and landmarks to your itinerary for a memorable trip!
