{"id":19541,"date":"2025-01-25T22:13:45","date_gmt":"2025-01-25T22:13:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/?p=19541"},"modified":"2025-01-25T22:19:02","modified_gmt":"2025-01-25T22:19:02","slug":"things-to-do-in-manila","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/things-to-do-in-manila\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Best Things to Do in Manila"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Philippines<\/a> is an archipelagic country consisting of 7,641 islands. Most visitors skip spending time in the big cities like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\/manila\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Manila<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\/central-visayas\/cebu\/800\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cebu<\/a> and instead use them as jumping-off points for island hopping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, Manila is a fascinating destination in its own right, and spending a few days here is the perfect way to get to know the country\u2019s rich history and culture. From national heroes and active volcanoes to one of Southeast Asia&#8217;s best drinking and dining scenes, you\u2019ll have no trouble packing your itinerary full of exciting experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether it\u2019s your first time in the Philippines or you\u2019re a regular visitor to the region, these are our 15 best things to do in Manila.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Discover Historic Manila in the Old Town<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ancient-fortress-fort-santiago-manila-philippines.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19587\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ancient-fortress-fort-santiago-manila-philippines.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ancient-fortress-fort-santiago-manila-philippines-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/g\/PatrickMessier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Patrick Messier<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Old Manila, otherwise known as Intramuros, is the city&#8217;s most historic area. Perched on the Pasig River just east of Manila Bay, the walled city was originally built by the Spanish 400 years ago as their military base in Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best way to explore Old Manila and learn about the Spanish colonial period is to take <a href=\"https:\/\/intramuros.gov.ph\/packages\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">an official walking tour<\/a> of the area. If you choose to go sightseeing on your own, don\u2019t miss these attractions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/manilacathedral.com.ph\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Manila Cathedral<\/a> \u2013 this is Manila\u2019s religious center that dates back to the colonial period when the Spanish Archbishop of Manila had jurisdiction over the entire country.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\/national-capital-region\/manila\/fort-santiago\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fort Santiago<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 one of the country\u2019s oldest Spanish stone castles and a national historic monument. This structure dates back to 1571 when Manila was designated the new capital of the Spanish empire.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/intramuros.gov.ph\/cmm\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Casa Manila<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013<strong> <\/strong>a replica 19th-century house and museum. The interior is furnished with original colonial decor, and the facade was modeled on an 1800s house that once stood in the area\u2019s Chinese district.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\/national-capital-region\/manila\/san-agustin-church\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">San Agustin Church<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 one of four Baroque churches that form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church is still active, and many locals visit here for their daily prayers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Unleash Your Inner Foodie In Binondo Chinatown<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Manila Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown of its kind in the world, with over 400 years of rich history to its name. This district is still a popular destination for foodies seeking authentic Chinese street food, charming cafes, and traditional bakeries. Several food tours operate in the area and will give you the inside scoop on where to grab the tastiest bites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Take a Side Trip to Boracay<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Add a couple of days in Boracay to your itinerary for a taste of the Philippines\u2019 pristine white beaches and crystal clear ocean water. Here, you\u2019ll find idyllic palm tree-lined beaches, restaurants serving fresh seafood, and beach bars with cold drinks and live music. Take a flight for a speedy journey, or hop on the ferry if you have time to spare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Explore Roxas Boulevard<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/baywalk-manila-philippines.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19589\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/baywalk-manila-philippines.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/baywalk-manila-philippines-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/g\/Tooykrub\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tooykrub<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No trip to the Philippines is complete without a stroll along Roxas Boulevard. Combining palm trees with corporate buildings, restaurants, and tourist attractions, you can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring. Don\u2019t miss these three experiences:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Learn about Filipino culture<\/strong> \u2013 the <a href=\"https:\/\/culturalcenter.gov.ph\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex<\/a> is home to the Folk Arts Theater, National Theater, and the CCP Library, among other national institutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enjoy sunset at Baywalk <\/strong>\u2013<strong> <\/strong>Ermita\u2019s Baywalk is an unbeatable spot to experience Manila\u2019s iconic sunsets.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Learn about Filipino currency <\/strong>&#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bsp.gov.ph\/pages\/aboutthebank\/facilities\/BSPMuseum.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Money Museum<\/a><strong> <\/strong>gives a glimpse into the history of the Philippines\u2019 economy, with exhibits including real gold and ancient coins.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Take a Guided Tour of Malaca\u00f1ang Palace<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This impressive palace is the home and official office of the country\u2019s President. The vast building was originally constructed as a private residence and has become one of Manila\u2019s most important historic locations. <a href=\"https:\/\/museums.gov.ph\/tour-request-form\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Take a guided tour<\/a> to learn all about it (tours must be scheduled in advance).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Meet Manila\u2019s Underwater Creatures<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/manila-ocean-park-philippines.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19591\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/manila-ocean-park-philippines.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/manila-ocean-park-philippines-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/g\/Iuliia+Khabibullina\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Iuliia Khabibullina<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\/national-capital-region\/manila\/manila-ocean-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Manila Ocean Park<\/a> is home to approximately 14,000 marine animals native to Southeast Asia. This family-friendly attraction is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours while learning all about Asia\u2019s underwater world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Visit Manila\u2019s National Museums &amp; Galleries<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As one of Southeast Asia\u2019s major cities, Manila is home to some of the best museums and galleries in the region. Here\u2019s our recommendation for a fun-packed day of museum and gallery-hopping:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph\/our-museums\/national-museum-of-fine-arts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Museum of Fine Arts<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 home to a vast collection of classic and modern Filipino works, including must-see paintings by revolutionary artist Juan Luna.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph\/our-museums\/national-museum-of-anthropology\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Museum of Anthropology<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 visit to see fascinating collections of artifacts and cultural items from the country\u2019s native people.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph\/our-museums\/national-museum-of-natural-history\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Museum of Natural History<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 explore 12 permanent exhibitions spanning geology, botany, and zoology. Don\u2019t miss the \u201cTree of Life\u201d at the heart of the museum.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph\/our-museums\/national-planetarium\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Planetarium<\/a> \u2013 learn everything there is to know about our skies via digital media, demonstrations, and exhibitions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. Take a Half-Day Tour in a Jeepney<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Colorful Jeepneys (small vans used as public transport) are how locals travel throughout the city, and taking a half-day tour in one is a convenient way of experiencing one. There are many tours operating in Manila, and most will take you to the city\u2019s most popular attractions, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ayala Center<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rizal Park<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The walled city of Intramuros<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fort Santiago<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>San Agustin Church<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Casa Manila<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chinese Cemetery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\/national-capital-region\/manila\/quiapo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Quiapo Church<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. Spend a Day in Makati Central Business District<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"269\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/makati-business-district-manila-philippines.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19593\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/makati-business-district-manila-philippines.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/makati-business-district-manila-philippines-300x135.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/g\/Andrei+Goncharov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Andrei Goncharov<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Makati Business District is the heart of Manila\u2019s financial sector and is home to towering glass buildings, high-end restaurants, and cool cocktail bars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best way to see this area is to simply wander and soak up the vibrant atmosphere, stopping off to refuel at one of the many drinking and dining establishments whenever the mood takes you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. Visit Manila\u2019s Wackiest Museums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ve already covered Manila\u2019s national museums, but if you\u2019re looking for a unique day out, add these intriguing spots to your itinerary:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/amusements.global\/foodwanderer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lakbay Museo<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 this interactive museum brings Filipino culture to life with hands-on, food-focused exhibitions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/artinisland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Art in Island<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 as one of the world\u2019s biggest 3D art museums, you can spend hours here taking unique photos where you become part of the art.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themindmuseum.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Mind Museum<\/a> \u2013 five galleries take visitors on a journey through the universe in a fun and engaging way. This is a great pick for families with inquisitive kids.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>11. Pay Respect to a National Hero at Rizal Park<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/rizal-park-manila-philippines-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19595\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/rizal-park-manila-philippines-1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/rizal-park-manila-philippines-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/g\/yooranpark\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ARTYOORAN<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jose Rizal was a doctor and writer who was killed by firing squad in 1896 after being charged with rebellion against the Spanish government. Rizal is considered a national hero, and the park of the same name is where you can pay your respects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The park is also a charming place to relax and stroll among the many monuments and fountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>12. Shop Til You Drop in Manila\u2019s Best Malls<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The metro Manila area is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to scratch your retail therapy itch, and the abundance of air-conditioned shopping malls means you can do it in complete comfort. Here are four of the best:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ortigasmalls.com\/tiendesitas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tiendesitas Mall<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 a unique mall that showcases Indigenous crafts, fashion, and cuisine. Here, you can browse goods from over 450 vendors from the regions of Visaya, Mindanao, and Luzon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smsupermalls.com\/mall-directory\/sm-mall-of-asia\/information\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SM Mall of Asia<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 the largest mall in the Philippines and the best option for enjoying a plethora of local and international brands under one roof. You\u2019ll also find lots of highly-rated entertainment and dining options here.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/smmegamall\/?hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SM Megamall<\/a><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 a vast mall set across a number of separate buildings. Don\u2019t miss the Mega Fashion Hall to pick up a new outfit or two.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ayalamalls.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Greenbelt Mall<\/a> \u2013 five malls connected by a green belt where you can shop for luxury items from designers, including Hermes, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>13. Find Bonifacio Global City\u2019s Best Speakeasy Bars<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\/national-capital-region\/taguig\/bonifacio-global-city\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bonifacio Global City<\/a> (BGC) is one of the city\u2019s best areas for nightlife. There are so many cool establishments here that you could easily spend every night of your trip trying highly-rated restaurants and stylish cocktail bars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a night out with a twist, see if you can seek out these three hidden speakeasy bars:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/bank.bar\/?hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bank Bar<\/a> \u2013 enjoy creative cocktails and delicious small plates in a cozy, chilled ambiance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/theatticbar_\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Attic Bar<\/a> \u2013 the entrance to this bar is hidden in a Soju Express shop. Step inside for a perfectly mixed drink in an exclusive environment. This bar is tiny, so bookings are advised.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/backroomph\/?hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Back Room<\/a> \u2013 a cool bar located in the same building as the Shangri-La hotel. Come here for top-level service and a unique cocktail list.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>14. Hike Taal Volcano<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/peoples-park-in-the-sky-tall-volcano-view-philippines.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19597\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/peoples-park-in-the-sky-tall-volcano-view-philippines.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/peoples-park-in-the-sky-tall-volcano-view-philippines-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/g\/Michael+D+Edwards\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">MDV Edwards<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.taalvolcano.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Taal Volcano<\/a> is the smallest active volcano on the planet and is a popular spot to visit among locals and international tourists. The volcano sits on Taal Lake and is just 30 miles south of Manila, making it a picturesque place to explore on a day trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The hike is easy enough for most people to tackle, so it\u2019s a great, family-friendly adventure to enjoy outside the city of Manila. For safety, it\u2019s best to hike the volcano as part of an official guided tour. Most tours include transport to and from your accommodation in Manila, plus a stop-off at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/all\/philippines\/calabarzon\/tagaytay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tagaytay Ridge<\/a> to admire the breathtaking views of the volcano.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>15. Take a Day Trip to Corregidor Island<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Corregidor is an island near the entrance of Manila Bay and a must-see place for anyone interested in world history. The island commemorates the efforts of the Philippines and the US against Japanese forces during World War II.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don\u2019t miss these spots during your visit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mile-long Barracks<\/strong> \u2013 originally designed for US soldiers stationed on the island, the barracks also served as the HQ for military operations during Japanese invasions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pacific War Memorial Museum<\/strong> \u2013 a WWII museum displaying weapons, memorabilia, and photos. The Pacific War Memorial is also located here.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Filipino Heroes Memorial <\/strong>\u2013 a poignant memorial for the men and women who sacrificed their lives to defend the Philippines during times of conflict.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Battery Hearn <\/strong>\u2013 a 12-inch coastal gun used during WWII to defend approaches to Manila from the South China Sea.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Get to Know Magnificent Manila<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you can see, there\u2019s no shortage of interesting and exciting things to do in Manila. Bookmark this guide for your next visit to the Philippines, and you\u2019re guaranteed to have an incredible time that you\u2019ll never forget. Which activity will you tick off first?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Philippines is an archipelagic country consisting of 7,641 islands. Most visitors skip spending time in the big cities like Manila and Cebu and instead use them as jumping-off points for island hopping. However, Manila is a fascinating destination in its own right, and spending a few days here is the perfect way to get [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":19600,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[506,505,13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-19541","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-manila","category-philippines","category-things-to-do"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>15 Best Things to Do in Manila - RentByOwner Journal<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore Manila&#039;s diverse attractions with our guide to the 15 best things to do. Immerse yourself in history, culture, food, and nightlife in this dynamic Philippine city.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rentbyowner.com\/journal\/things-to-do-in-manila\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"15 Best Things to Do in Manila - RentByOwner Journal\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Explore Manila&#039;s diverse attractions with our guide to the 15 best things to do. 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