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As the capital city of the Philippines, Manila has no shortage of interesting tourist attractions to explore. The likes of Fort Santiago, Rizal Park, and Manila Cathedral are essential sights to visit, but there are many lesser-known attractions to explore if you want to truly get to know this city. If you’re looking for an alternative tour, be sure to check out these 16 hidden gems of Manila on your next visit.
1. Paco Park Cemetery
- Address: Belen, Paco, Manila, Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 6 am – 5 pm daily
Paco Park was established in 1807 to serve as the burial grounds of the Spanish colonial elite, whose marble crypt markers can still be seen today. In 1822, the cemetery was expanded to accommodate victims of a cholera outbreak, but it was in the late 1800s that some particularly famous figures were laid to rest here.
In 1872, three Filipino priests were executed for inciting mutiny against the government, and in 1896, Jose P. Rizal, a national hero, was executed for his involvement in the Philippine Revolution. All four of these renowned figures were buried in unmarked graves in Paco Park.
2. Manila Clock Tower Museum
Photo Credit: ARTYOORAN
- Address: Manila City Hall, Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Tuesday / 10 am – 3 pm Wednesday to Sunday
Manila Clock Tower, which is the largest in the Philippines at 100 feet tall, is one of Old Manila’s most famous landmarks. It has a striking hexagonal shape with three golden clock faces. Considered the Philippines’ answer to London’s Big Ben, Manila Clock Tower’s bells chime three times throughout the day to signify break hours and the close of business.
You’ll get the best views of the clock tower in Intramuros or Rizal Park, but be sure to visit the museum to take a peek inside. You’ll get an up-close look at the clock’s mechanisms from the top floor, plus fantastic views of Manila’s skyline.
3. Books from Underground & Lagusnilad Underpass
- Address: Manila City Hall Underpass, Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 4 pm – 7 pm daily
Books from Underground is a truly unique second-hand bookstore located in the tunnel of Lagusnilad Underpass, found in the University belt. Books are stacked from floor to ceiling in this quirky hidden passageway.
Lagusnilad Underpass was once a hotspot for minor crimes and not considered very safe, but after a recent refurbishment, it has been given a new lease of life. Books from Underground certainly brings a classy vibe to this rugged urban space.
4. Arroceros Forest Park
- Address: 659 A Antonio Villegas St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 8 pm – 5 pm daily
Arroceros, often referred to as Manila’s last lung, is a vital green space in the heart of the city. It has Spanish colonial origins, and it’s an incredible feat that it has remained undeveloped since the 16th century.
Its greenery plays a vital role in purifying the air of the bustling city. Plus, its dense, 3000-strong army of trees serves as a natural cooling system in a city that is prone to overheating. A diverse range of flora and fauna thrive here, so be sure to spend a couple of hours admiring the wildlife when you want to take a break from urban sightseeing.
5. Rizal Shrine
Photo Credit: demesafrankc
- Website: visitfortsantiago.com
- Address: Gen Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 8 am – 11 pm daily
Museo ni Rizal, which lies within Fort Santiago, is a museum and shrine celebrating the life of Jose Rizal. Rizal was a writer and polymath who played an important role in inspiring the Philippine Revolution before being executed on grounds of rebellion by the Spanish government in 1896. The museum is located in the fort’s barracks, where Rizal was incarcerated before his execution.
6. Memorare Manila 1945
Photo Credit: Tappasan Phurisamrit
- Website: www.facebook.com/memoraremanila1945
- Address: Anda Street near General Luna Street, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 24/7
Memorare Manila is a monument that memorializes the 100,000 civilians who lost their lives in the brutal Battle for the Liberation of Manila, which took place at the end of World War II.
The battle occurred between February 3 and March 3, 1945, and swathes of non-combatant residents were killed by atrocious acts of violence committed by Japanese Imperial forces and the heavy artillery barrage of American forces.
7. San Sebastian Church
Photo Credit: Aleksandr Medvedkov
- Website: rcam.org/sansebastianchurch
- Address: Pasaje del Carmen St, Quiapo, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 8 pm – 5 pm daily
San Sebastian Basilica is a Roman Catholic church that was built in 1891 out of steel. Its unusual construction was chosen to ensure it would hold up against fires, which were common in this densely populated part of the city. The church has Baroque and neo-Gothic design elements that the Burgos Cathedral inspired in Spain. You’ll spot it from a distance by its striking green-painted twin spire.
8. Cubao Expo
- Website: www.facebook.com/CubaoExpoQC
- Address: Cubao Expo, 3 General Romulo Ave, Cubao, Quezon City, 1109 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily
Cubao Expo is home to a variety of cool art galleries and boutique stores. Shop for second-hand and vintage clothing, quirky knick-knacks, and unique souvenirs. There are also several eateries for when you want to grab a bite to eat. Look out for special events like book sales, live musical performances, poetry readings, and conventions.
9. Antipolo
Photo Credit: Salvador Maniquiz
It’s common to venture out of Manila to experience the Philippines’ beautiful countryside, and Tagaytay, with its beautiful Taal Volcano and lake, is a popular day tour destination. If you’re looking for an alternative that requires less travel, head to Antipolo. It’s only 12 miles east of Manila, but its position at the foot of the Sierra Madre mountain range makes it a stunning city.
High elevations also contribute to a cooler climate than Manila, so you can enjoy some respite from the heat. Head to the Cloud 9 Hotel Sky Deck for incredible views of the mountains and the city. There are also many great attractions to explore, such as the Pinto Art Museum and historic sites like Antipolo Cathedral. Plan to spend a full day here because there’s plenty to do.
10. Boracay Island
If you want a true break from the hustle and bustle of Manila, spend a few days on Boracay Island, which lies just off the north coast of Panay. It’s a haven of beautiful white sand beaches, colorful coral reefs, and peaceful picnic spots. Be sure to enjoy some seafood from the restaurants here — particularly those around D’Talipapa Market, a wet market where fresh, locally caught fish is sold daily to the surrounding eateries.
The quickest way to reach Boracay Island is to take a plane to Caticlan Airport, followed by a short ferry ride. A cheaper alternative is to take ferry services the whole way from Manila, which will take up to 10 hours. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be able to get around using the island’s most popular means of local transportation — the tricycle. It’s a three-wheeled motorbike with a sidecar that’s a little like a tuk-tuk.
11. Tutuban Center Mall
- Address: G/F Tutuban Center Mall, Recto Ave, 49 Zone 4, 1000, Manila
- Opening Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily
There are lots of shopping malls in Manila, but Tutuban Center Mall in Divisoria is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. It’s a former station that was originally constructed in 1892. You’ll find a wide range of products here, including clothing, shoes, toys, and home goods. Plus, there’s a food court serving up delicious cuisine from all over the world.
12. Museo ng Makati
- Address: 986 J. P. Rizal St, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Tuesday to Sunday
Makati Museum (Museo ng Makati), which can be found in the Poblacion neighborhood, is dedicated to the rich heritage of the city of Makati. It’s housed in Makati’s former town hall, which dates back to the 1800s. There are photographs of old Makati, paintings of past mayors, and interesting artifacts of days gone by.
While you’re in the area, be sure to spend some time wandering around Poblacion, which is known for its nightlife and food scene. You’ll find craft brews in local bars and plenty of cheap and delicious Asian street food. The area is very walkable, but there are plenty of jeepneys, buses, and trains to help you get around.
13. SM MOA Eye
Photo Credit: photosounds
- Website: facebook.com/moaeyeofficial
- Address: GXMH+5P3, Seaside Blvd, Pasay, Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 4 pm – 12 am daily
If you plan to spend some time at the enormous SM Mall of Asia, be sure to make time for a ride on the MOA Eye Ferris wheel. At 180 feet tall, it’s the tallest in the Philippines, and it offers incredible views over the city and Manila Bay. Follow it up with a scenic stroll along Manila Baywalk and Roxas Boulevard.
14. Seng Guan Temple
- Website: facebook.com/pages/Seng-Guan-Temple-Narra-St
- Address: JX5F+3V5, Narra St, Tondo, Manila, Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 7 am – 7 pm daily
Seng Guan Temple was the first Buddhist temple to ever be constructed in the Philippines so it’s an important cultural landmark in the Tondo district. Its stone-carved facade is incredibly striking, and the interior offers a beautiful, cool, and calm respite from the busy city.
15. Salcedo Community Market
- Website: facebook.com/SalcedoCommunityMarket
- Address: H26F+56Q Salcedo Village, Jaime C. Velasquez Park, Tordesillas St. Cor Toledo St., Salcedo Village, Makati, 1227 Metro Manila
- Opening Hours: 7 am – 2 pm Saturday
If you love a bargain, you’ll love Salcedo Community Market. Popular with locals, it’s the perfect spot to pick up tasty produce and freshly cooked street food. Be sure to try longaniza, which is similar to chorizo sausage, and Suman, which is tasty coconut milk and rice cooked in banana leaves.
16. Escolta Street
Escolta Street is the beating heart of Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown district. In a city covered in modern high-rise buildings, Escolta Street is one of the best places to go to get a feel for Manila’s rich history.
There’s a mix of architectural styles to admire, including Art Deco and Neoclassical. If you’re going to book a walking tour of any part of Manila, it should be here. A local tour guide will help you appreciate the historical significance of this area and help you find the best stores and eateries.
Discover More of Manila’s Hidden Gems
These must-visit attractions are sure to take you off the beaten path and away from the crowds of tourists. Don’t forget to look out for other hidden gems along the way as you explore the buzzing streets of Manila.
