Philippines · City Guide
Manila
Manila is the Philippines' vibrant and historically layered capital, combining the Spanish colonial heritage of Intramuros — the walled city containing the magnificent San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site — with the National Museum's outstanding collections, the contemporary energy of Bonifacio Global City, excellent food representing the full diversity of Filipino regional cuisine and Manila Bay's famous sunsets. From the cobblestone streets of Intramuros to the rooftop bars of BGC, Manila rewards extended exploration.
Elect's take
"Manila has a layered complexity that I find genuinely fascinating. The Spanish colonial heritage of Intramuros, the contemporary energy of BGC and the extraordinary diversity of Filipino food culture create a city with considerably more depth than its reputation as merely a transit point suggests."
Intramuros, the historic walled city built by the Spanish in the 16th century, contains San Agustin Church — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest stone church in the Philippines — alongside Fort Santiago and beautiful colonial architecture. The National Museum of the Philippines houses outstanding collections including the famous Spoliarium painting by Juan Luna. Manila Bay's sunset is one of the most celebrated in Asia, particularly viewed from the Baywalk promenade. Bonifacio Global City (BGC) represents contemporary Manila with excellent restaurants, rooftop bars and shopping. Filipino food culture, encompassing adobo, sinigang, lechon and regional specialities from across the archipelago, is exceptional and increasingly internationally recognised.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Intramuros
The historic Spanish walled city containing the UNESCO listed San Agustin Church.
National Museum
Outstanding Philippine art and history collections including the famous Spoliarium.
Manila Bay Sunset
One of the most celebrated sunsets in Asia from the Baywalk promenade.
Bonifacio Global City
Manila's contemporary district with excellent restaurants, bars and shopping.
Filipino Cuisine
Exceptional regional Filipino food from adobo to lechon and beyond.
San Agustin Church
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest stone church in the Philippines.
