Fascinating Historic Places to Visit in Manila

Cultural Dance Show with Dinner in Manila

Start your evening in Manila with a dinner of traditional Filipino dishes while watching a graceful display of authentic classical dancing. The presentation showcases the soul of the Filipino - from the symbolic ceremonial dances of the northern mountain tribes…

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Horse Drawn Carriage parking in front of Malate church

Manila City Tour

Manila Tours

Experience the capital of the Philippines on this tour. Discover Manila’s heart and soul and see the locals going about their day-to-day life as you move from Intramuros to its financial center in Makati.

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Historic Places in Manila

A guide to the most Fascinating Historic Places

Plan a visit to historic Manila with this guide featuring top attractions

Rizal Park

Rizal Park Manila

Rizal Park also known as Luneta Park is one of most popular historical landmark in Manila and the most favorite leisure spot for locals. Rizal Park is spread out over a vast area adjacent to the old walled city of Intramuros. The park features ornamental gardens, ponds, paved walks and monuments that commemorate the Filipino Hero José Rizal.

Intramuros

Intramuros Manila

Intramuros, literally translated means “within the walls” is the historical district of Manila and it’s home to Spanish-era landmarks like Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila
The 8-foot thick, 22-foot high walls were built by the Spaniards in the 16th century as a line of defense against foreign invaders.
The walled city survived many attacks, but it was destroyed during the Battle of Manila in WWII. The remaining five original gates have been restored or rebuilt.

San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church Intramuros Manila

The San Agustin Church is a Roman Catholic church, located inside the historic walled city of Intramuros. Built between 1587 and 1606, it’s the oldest church in the country. The San Agustin Church was the only building left intact after the destruction of Intramuros during the Battle of Manila in WWII. The church is a National Historical Landmark and it has been designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Quiapo Church

Quiapo Church Manila

The Quiapo Church is a prominent Roman Catholic Basilica located in the District of Quiapo in Manila. The Quiapo Church houses Black Nazarene, a dark statue of Jesus Christ bearing the cross many faithfully claim to be miraculous. This sculpture was carved in Mexico in the early 1600s, was brought out to the Philippines from Mexico by Spanish galleon and was finally placed in the Quiapo Church in the late 1700s.
During the Holy Week thousands of Catholic devotees join the massive Procession of the Black Nazarene. Quiapo Church is always full of devotees, especially on Fridays when they knees towards the crucifix, praying for a miracle or for forgiveness.

National Museum

National Museum Manila

The National Museum is a must-see when you are in Manila. It offers an insight into the history and culture of the Philippines. The National Museum houses a vast and varied collection including ethnographic, anthropological, archaeological and arts collections. Admission to the National Museum is now permanently free of charge for all visitors.

Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago Intramuros Manila

Fort Santiago is an anciten citadel built between 1589 and 1592 by the Spanish navigator in for the defense of the territory. The fort overlook the Pasig River and is part of the structures of the walled city of Manila referred to as Intramuros.
A Kalesa ride (traditional horse-drawn carriages) is the best way to get around Fort Santiago.

Casa Manila

This beautiful reproduction of a Spanish colonial house offers a window into the colonial lifestyle in the 19th century.
Located within the walls of Intramuros, in the heart of Manila, it was constructed by Imelda Marcos to showcase the architecture and interior design of the late Spanish period.
Casa Manila is a museum filled with authentic antique furniture and artwork from the colonial era.

Chinese Cemetery

Chinese Cemetery Manila

The Chinese Cemetery is the second oldest cemetery in Manila after La Loma Cemetery and was designated as the resting place for the Chinese who were denied burial in Catholic cemeteries during the Spanish colonial period.
The Manila Chinese Cemetery is not an ordinary cemetery and instead looks like a residential suburb with streets lined with mausoleums.
The best way to get around the cemetery and access to the best tombs is to hire a bicycle.

Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is an historic premiere hotel located along Manila Bay. It was opened on the commemoration of American Independence on July 4, 1912. At the lobby, you can enjoy an aperitifs or a Filipino Afternoon Tea. The restaurant with its impeccable service and lavish décor is the favorite venue for a fine dining experience.
Those who wish to spend the night at the Manila Hotel can choose from the different room categories ranging from deluxe rooms to opulent suites. Book Now