Manila 4 days

A historic defense fortress built by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi. It played a significant role in the Spanish, British, American, and Japanese occupations of the Philippines, and is famously known as the site of Rizal's incarceration before his execution.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.
• Visit the Rizal Shrine within the fort.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, built in 1587. The adjacent museum houses a rich collection of religious artifacts, colonial art, and historical exhibits.

• Dress code: shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Allow ample time for the museum's extensive displays.

A historic bastion and part of the Intramuros walls, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Pasig River. It's a great spot for photos and to appreciate the scale of the old city fortifications.

• Enjoy the breeze and city views from the top.
• Combine with a stroll along the walls.

Experience traditional Filipino cuisine in a charming heritage setting. Often features cultural dance performances during dinner, offering a delightful immersion into local culture.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
• Check performance schedules in advance.

Home to an extensive collection of Filipino art, including Juan Luna's masterpiece 'Spoliarium' and Fernando Amorsolo's vibrant landscapes. The museum is housed in a grand neoclassical building that was formerly the Old Legislative Building.

• Free admission.
• Focus on specific galleries if time is limited.

A bustling public market that has transformed into a gourmet destination, offering a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal food stalls. It's a great place to sample diverse Filipino flavors.

• Try the seafood and local street food.
• Go with an open mind and adventurous appetite.

The world's oldest Chinatown, established in 1594. It's a vibrant district filled with historic temples, traditional Chinese bakeries, bustling markets, and countless restaurants offering authentic Chinese-Filipino cuisine.

• Embark on a food crawl to sample various specialties.
• Visit Eng Bee Tin for hopia and other Chinese pastries.

A beloved institution serving classic Filipino dishes since 1936. Famous for its crispy pata (deep-fried pork leg) and chicken barbecue, it offers a comfortable and nostalgic dining experience.

• Their lumpiang shanghai is also a must-try.
• It's a popular spot, so expect some waiting time during peak hours.

A modern art and history museum offering engaging exhibitions on Philippine culture, art, and history. It features dioramas of Philippine history, a collection of gold artifacts, and contemporary art.

• Check for temporary exhibitions.
• The museum shop has unique local crafts.

A premier shopping mall in Makati, offering a wide range of international and local brands, diverse dining options, and entertainment facilities. It's a modern hub for retail therapy and a good place to escape the heat.

• Plenty of food court and restaurant options for lunch.
• Connects to other malls like Greenbelt via walkways.

An urban oasis in the heart of Makati, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, sculptures, and tranquil ponds. It provides a refreshing break from the city's hustle and bustle and is surrounded by high-end shopping centers.

• Great for a leisurely stroll or people-watching.
• Several cafes and restaurants are adjacent to the park.

A popular contemporary bistro known for its excellent brunch menu, artisanal breads, pastries, and diverse international dishes. It offers a chic ambiance perfect for a relaxed dinner.

• Their breakfast and brunch items are highly rated.
• Can get crowded, especially during peak dining hours.

Focuses on the archaeology and ethnology of the Philippines, showcasing artifacts that tell the story of the country's diverse indigenous cultures and ancient civilizations. It's located in the former Department of Finance Building.

• Complementary to the National Museum of Fine Arts.
• Learn about the pre-colonial history of the Philippines.

A vibrant public square in Malate known for its lively atmosphere, numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars. It's a great spot to experience Manila's nightlife and culinary scene, with many al fresco dining options.

• Explore the various food stalls and restaurants for lunch.
• A good place to observe local life.

A historic urban park and a national monument featuring a circular fort and walls, built by the Dominicans in the late 18th century. It served as a cemetery during the Spanish colonial era and is a serene escape with historical significance.

• A peaceful place for a quiet walk.
• Check if there are any cultural events or concerts held here.

Renowned for its extravagant international buffet, Spiral offers a culinary journey with live cooking stations featuring diverse cuisines from around the globe. It's a luxurious dining experience perfect for a farewell meal.

• Reservations are essential, book well in advance.
• Dress code is smart casual.