3 Days in Manila Things to Do Where to Stay and Must Sees

When visiting Manila, the capital of the Philippines, it’s important to be prepared and plan ahead to make the most of your trip. Here are some travel tips to help you navigate the city and have a great experience:

Currency: The currency used in Manila is the Philippine Peso. Make sure to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases as not all places accept credit cards.
Transportation: Getting around Manila can be a challenge due to heavy traffic. Consider using ride-sharing apps like Grab or taking the local mode of transportation, the jeepney, for a more authentic experience.
Weather: Manila has a tropical climate with the rainy season lasting from June to November. Pack an umbrella and lightweight clothing to stay comfortable in the heat.
Language: Filipino and English are the official languages in Manila, so communication shouldn’t be a problem for English speakers.
Safety: Like any big city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep your belongings safe.

Things to do in Manila / Top 15 sites and monuments to visit in Manila:

Rizal Park – A historic park where you can visit the Rizal Monument and learn about the national hero, Jose Rizal. (Reference: https://www.rizalpark.gov.ph) Pricing: Free How to get there: Easily accessible by public transportation or taxi.
Manila Cathedral – A beautiful church located in Intramuros that has stood since the Spanish colonial period. (Reference: https://manilacathedral.ph/)
Pricing: Free
How to get there: Take a jeepney or taxi to Intramuros.
Fort Santiago – A historical fort within Intramuros where you can learn about the city’s past and enjoy panoramic views of Manila. (Reference: https://intramuros.gov.ph/fort-santiago/)
Pricing: Php75 (around $1.50)
How to get there: Walk from Manila Cathedral or take a taxi.
San Agustin Church – The oldest stone church in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Reference: https://sanagustinchurch.org/)
Pricing: Php100 (around $2)
How to get there: Located within Intramuros, easily accessible by taxi or walking.
National Museum of Fine Arts – Houses a collection of Filipino art spanning different periods in history. (Reference: https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/nationalmuseumbeta/)
Pricing: Php150 (around $3) How to get there: Located in Rizal Park, accessible by public transportation or taxi.
Bonifacio Global City – A modern commercial district with shopping malls, restaurants, and green spaces to explore. (Reference: https://bgc.com.ph/)
Pricing: Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining.
How to get there: Take a taxi or ride-sharing app to BGC.
Ayala Museum – Showcases Filipino art and history through interactive exhibits and artifacts. (Reference: https://www.ayalamuseum.org/)
Pricing: Php425 (around $9)
How to get there: Located in Makati, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Divisoria Market – A bustling market where you can shop for affordable clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. (Reference: https://www.divisoria.com/)
Pricing: Varies depending on items purchased.
How to get there: Take a jeepney or taxi to Divisoria.
Manila Ocean Park – A marine-themed park with an aquarium, shows, and interactive exhibits for all ages. (Reference: https://www.manilaoceanpark.com/)
Pricing: Starts at Php990 (around $20) for entrance How to get there: Located in Luneta, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Binondo – Manila’s Chinatown known for its food, culture, and history. Explore the vibrant streets and try authentic Chinese cuisine. (Reference: https://www.chinatownmanila.com/)
Pricing: Varies depending on activities and dining choices.
How to get there: Take a taxi or jeepney to Binondo.
Malacañang Palace – The official residence of the President of the Philippines with a rich history and beautiful architecture. (Reference: https://www.pcoo.gov.ph/)
Pricing: Guided tours available, prices vary.
How to get there: Located in San Miguel, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Cultural Center of the Philippines – A hub for Filipino arts and culture with theaters, galleries, and performances. (Reference: https://culturalcenter.gov.ph/)
Pricing: Ticket prices vary depending on events.
How to get there: Located in Pasay, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Manila Baywalk – A scenic promenade along Manila Bay where you can enjoy stunning sunsets and local street food. (Reference: No official website)
Pricing: Free
How to get there: Located along Roxas Boulevard, accessible by taxi or walking.
Greenbelt Park – A lush green oasis in the middle of Makati’s bustling business district, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. (Reference: https://www.ayalamalls.com/)
Pricing: Free
How to get there: Located in Makati, accessible by taxi or walking.
SM Mall of Asia – One of the largest shopping malls in Asia with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. (Reference: https://www.smsupermalls.com/)
Pricing: Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining.
How to get there: Located in Pasay, accessible by taxi or public transportation.

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3 Days in Manila Visit Day-by-Day itinerary for exploring Manila:

Day 1:

Visit Rizal Park and the Rizal Monument
Explore Fort Santiago and Intramuros
Have dinner at a local restaurant in the area

Day 2:

Visit San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral
Explore the National Museum of Fine Arts
Shop and eat in Divisoria Market

Day 3:

Explore Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and Ayala Museum
Visit Manila Ocean Park and enjoy the shows and exhibits
Have dinner in Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown

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Best Hotels in Manila / Where to Stay in Manila

Top Rated Manila Hotels priced over $200 per night:

Best Reviewed Manila Hotels priced between $100 to $200 per night:

Recommended Hotels in Manila priced between $50 to $100 per night:

Top Manila Hotels priced between $20 to $50 per night:

Best Manila Budget Hotels and Hostels priced below $20 per night:

Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.

We hope this comprehensive guide to Manila, including travel tips, sites to visit, a 3-day itinerary, and hotel recommendations, helps you plan a memorable trip to this vibrant city. Enjoy your time in Manila and the Philippines!

For more about the Philippines, Manila, Cebu City and other travel destinations in the Philippines, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.

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