The 22 best free attractions in Manila

My boyfriend and I recently visited Rizal Park, and it was a refreshing and memorable experience. It had been 10 years since my last vacation in Manila, and seeing the park again was truly nostalgic. The park is spacious, well-maintained, and perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon. We enjoyed the beautiful gardens, open spaces, and historical monuments, including the iconic Rizal Monument. Since we visited on a weekday, it wasn’t very crowded, which made our experience even more enjoyable and peaceful. Rizal Park is suitable for families, couples, or anyone looking to experience a blend of history and greenery in the heart of Manila. Overall, it’s a must-visit destination that combines relaxation, culture, and history.

Luneta Park is a refreshing escape right in the heart of Manila. 🌳 Perfect for an early morning run or a peaceful walk, with wide open spaces, trees, and a touch of history everywhere you look. It’s clean, relaxing, and gives you that rare calm amid the city buzz. A timeless spot that reminds you why Manila is so special. 🇵🇭

I visited the park about 6:30 am and already there were plenty of people walking, stretching, exercising by themselves or in a groups. Big speakers in the whole park, music on, amazing energy! 🥰 Very clean with a few things to explore there. I definitely recommend this place to visit

Bringing my daughter here for the very first time was pure magic. I’ve visited many times myself, but seeing it through the eyes of a child is a totally different experience! ​As soon as we walked in and saw the massive, open green lawn, her little eyes went wide. She’s usually glued to her tablet, but here, she just dropped my hand and took off running! The sheer amount of safe, open space for her to burn off energy was a relief for me. Looking at her running around, I felt that amazing connection to Filipino history while she was just having the time of her life. Luneta isn't just a park. It's a piece of our heritage that also happens to be a perfect, budget-friendly family day out. It was a beautiful, successful first trip, and she’s already begging to go back!

Nice big park to go for a stroll and where you can learn about the history of the Philippines at the same time. But this is not just any old park, unfortunately it was also the place where many people were executed - some brave Priests who fought for the rights of the locals against the imperialists, and of course where national hero, Filipino nationalist, and inspiration for the fight against the Spanish Jose Riza was also publicly executed. It was interesting to read on the memorials their sacrifice. Also this is the park where in 1946 Philippines was finally declared an independent nation. So this park is important to the Philippine people and so respect and reverence is to be shown when walking around. It is a nice park and it is well laid out. Definitely worth a view

I visited Rizal Park, also known as Parke ng Rizal or Bagumbayan, on October 29, 2025. It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I have visited in Manila. The park is named after Dr. José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, who dedicated his life to the country’s freedom through his writings and sacrifice. This park stands as a reminder of his love for the Filipino people and his dream of an independent nation. The atmosphere of the park is calm and refreshing. I saw many people jogging, walking, and doing exercises early in the evening. The green grass, tall trees, and clean surroundings make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature in the middle of the city. The dancing fountain with fire was the highlight of my visit — it was truly worth watching, especially after sunset. There is no entrance fee, which makes it accessible for everyone. The place is well-maintained, and security officers are visible throughout the area. Rizal Park is not just a tourist spot but also a space where history, nature, and everyday life meet beautifully. I highly recommend visiting this park to anyone coming to Manila.

ill give it 4.1 stars for the food but its really pricey,especially the childrens toys. The food was good though. Really recommend going here when planning on picnics,playing and having fun. Hate how toys small are 70-150 pesos.

Fort Santiago is a wonderful historical site in Manila that’s full of stories and character. The place is well-preserved and offers a great glimpse into the country’s past, especially about José Rizal and the Spanish colonial era. Walking around the fort, you can enjoy the peaceful gardens, old walls, and beautiful views by the river. It’s clean, well-maintained, and informative, with signs that explain the history clearly. A great spot for both locals and tourists who love culture, history, and photography. Truly a must-visit landmark in Intramuros!

A magnificent fort situated near Chinatown which is great for a day trip combining the both. We can hear during the All Saints’ Day which was great. Less crowd for us to truly immerse ourselves with the history and greenery surrounding it.

Fort Santiago is one of my favorite spots in Manila — peaceful, green, and full of stories from the past. You can really feel the Spanish-era atmosphere walking through the old walls and gardens. The museum inside is small but interesting, and the views by the river are lovely. I recommend going early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat...for me the weather was magical: sunny & at the same time raining. Definitely worth a visit if you love history or just want a nice quiet walk in Intramuros.

We enjoyed our dontskipmanila tour of Fort Santiago and surrounding historical spots. I gained more appreciation about our history and what our heroes did for our nation. I gained additional knowledge. We had our foreigner boss to tour around. I think the kids will also enjoy the tour. When I visited before with no tour, I didn't appreciate it much. When we had the tour, it was much better.

Fort Santiago is more than just awesome! A fortress built in 1593 that still stands strong even after numerous conflicts and natural disasters! You can go inside as it is both a park and a walking museum full of statues and remnants of the past!

Went inside Fort Santiago and paid Php 70 for the entrance fee. This place is good for school trips too. I haven’t tried the guided tour and I heard it was great but my mom and I just DIY’d our trip. Took pictures everywhere but these were the only ones I captured that was without our faces.

A must-visit when you're in Manila. Fort Santiago is a historic site located in Intramuros that witnessed over 400 years of Spanish occupation in the Philippines. The place is rich with history, and walking through it feels like being transported back in time. Don’t miss the Dungeons, where you can learn about the atrocities committed during the Japanese occupation. Entrance Fee: ₱75 Highly recommended. Locals and foreigners should not miss it!

MAY 2025 - We recently visited Manila Ocean Park, and it was a mix of good experiences and some frustrations. The Oceanarium tunnel is definitely the highlight — it’s beautiful to walk through and see all the fish and marine life swimming overhead. The penguin encounter was also fun, but it comes with an additional fee aside from the regular ticket. The same goes for the shark and stingray encounters — they sounded exciting, but again, there’s an extra charge if you want to try them. One real downside was the sea lion show. The auditorium was extremely hot and uncomfortable, and we ended up leaving before the show even started. That part of the park could really use better ventilation or fans to make it bearable for visitors. Overall, the park is worth seeing at least once, especially for families with kids who will enjoy the tunnel and animal encounters. Just be prepared for extra fees, crowded areas, and some uncomfortable spots. With a bit more upkeep and guest comfort improvements, this could easily be a much better experience. Tips: • Budget extra if you want to do encounters like penguins, sharks, or stingrays. • Bring water and a fan, as some areas can get very hot. • Go early in the day to avoid the heaviest crowds.

Although some facilities, windows, among other aspects of the place could use some cleaning and/or renovation to be kept in better shape, I would rate my experience good overall. As expected from a weekend visit, there was a sizable crowd even before afternoon. Tickets can be bought online via Klook or bought and printed on-site via automated kiosks and counters available at the entrance. Inside were a variety of fish and other assortment of creatures alike to be seen though, as mentioned earlier, the premises are definitely beginning to show its age. Also available are the penguin feeding, sea lion show, and other things kids and adults alike will enjoy. Check-in via Hotel H2O is also an option for those wishing to have an overnight stay or longer, and there are a variety of food options and restaurants alike in the venue.

The park has improved a lot since our last visit in 2018! There are several new attractions and activities to enjoy now. I’m not sure if there have been any changes inside the Oceanarium itself since we focused on trying the new experiences, like the Biodome, which we really enjoyed. There’s also a play area and a cute ride that kids (and kids-at-heart) will love. Overall, it was a fun and refreshing visit — definitely worth checking out again!

Very fun to see everything they had, although not a ton of things. The best parts of the park was the lion show and feeding the penguins. If you have younger ones perfect place for them to explore and not be so overwhelmed by crowds. Worth seeing for the affordability.

The oceanarium and world of crawling creeps is aight, not too bad but not the best either, but if you'd like to see fishes I'd still recommend it, but the reason I gave this a 2 star review because of the horrendous quality and program of the all star bird show with reptiles on the side, seal talent show, I do appreciate the talent displayed by the animals and them trainers, but damn, the place is horrible man, seeing the swimming people from Hotel H²O was distracting enough while the show was going on, and this entire thing only has 2 speakers on the left side, and it's really botched up sound quality jesus, I literally can't understand everything the host said, on top of it's broken sound, there's a background music playing loudly consistently that it's literally not helping with the already horrible quality of the place, and damn people really do just come and go whenever they want even though the show already started blocking the already tiny view you have with what's going on, you can see everything that happened in the vids, plus the snack bar at the side, horrible popcorn man, ain't heated and it's got this stale chewy rubbery texture, well at this point I'm sure that the popcorn ain't even freshly cooked. And another thing to add, it was originally cloudy when the show started, and a lil after 30 minutes the sun showed up shining rays, literally the half towards the front seats are exposed dude, talk about horrible events place build, why would you only build half a roof in that thing?, imagine the people sitting there getting barbecued at 12 noon, they suddenly stood up and left them seats, blocking the damn view of the talent show of the seal, man I love the talent, animals, trainers, and props to the workers, but the management of this thing is just not good bro. If y'all want to see fishes, check out the oceanarium. But the show outside and it's prices, I wouldn't recommend it.

We visiting the digital art museum which was nice, but not really worth the money as you can see everything in about 20 minutes. The exhibits are interesting and the kids enjoyed it. Entrance is not well signposted as you're greeted by a gaudy Eiffel tower ride which does little to promote local culture and there's so much trash in the parking, run down toilets, and food places are closed or just junk. I'm sure this place was great when it opened, but sadly the lack of maintenance and poor management let's this place down. Sayang.

Manila Ocean Park has potential as a family attraction, but the experience can be disappointing in some areas. The penguin exhibit, which should be a highlight, is difficult to enjoy because the glass is often foggy and unclear due to humidity. This makes it hard to actually see the penguins, which is frustrating given the premium ticket price. Another issue is the ticketing area—there’s no air-conditioning, and the wait can be uncomfortable, especially during peak hours. For a tourist destination of this scale, the entry process could definitely be better organized and more guest-friendly. One tip: it’s much better to purchase tickets in advance through platforms like Klook. You can skip the long lines and head straight inside, which saves a lot of time and avoids the uncomfortable waiting area. Overall, while the park has some interesting attractions, the execution and facilities need improvement to make the visit more enjoyable and worth the cost

Quiapo Church, officially called the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, is a historic Roman Catholic church in Manila. It is best known as the home of the Black Nazarene, a life-sized dark statue of Jesus Christ believed by many devotees to be miraculous. The church was first built in the late 1500s, but it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to fires and earthquakes. Today, it is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the Philippines, especially during the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene every January 9.

The iconic Quiapo Church has been officially elevated to the rank of a Basilica by the Pope and declared as the National Shrine of Jesus of Nazareth by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines. 💒 A holy place for prayer and meditation, the Basilica stands as a symbol of faith and devotion of millions of Filipinos. In front of it lies the historic Plaza Miranda, a landmark that has witnessed countless events in our nation’s history. 🇵🇭✨ Truly, Quiapo remains not only a spiritual haven but also a cultural and historical treasure of the Philippines. ❤️ #QuiapoChurch #Basilica #NationalShrine #PlazaMiranda #Faith #History

My first time going back here for several years and it felt good visiting Quiapo Church ☺️ I was able to attend the morning mass. I can't remember the day I went here but I would say it's totally different now from the last time I visited the shrine. Thankful and Blessed to visit Poong Nazareno.

I've been here many times, and every visit reminds me of the deep faith and devotion of the Filipino people. Quiapo Church is always bustling with devotees, especially on Fridays and during the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene, where millions join the Traslación procession—a powerful display of collective devotion and sacrifice. What stands out is the diverse spiritual culture around the church. Many faith healers and vendors line the perimeter, offering religious items, herbal remedies, and amulets said to bring good luck or healing. It creates an almost mystical atmosphere that blends folk belief with Catholic tradition. This church holds personal significance for me—it's where my mother goes when she wants her prayers answered. One moment I’ll never forget was seeing a woman walking on her knees from the entrance to the altar. I didn’t fully understand the meaning behind it, but it was deeply moving. It's a common form of panata (a vow or act of devotion), showing how far people will go to express their faith and gratitude. Inside, you’ll often witness unique rituals and people in silent prayer amidst the crowd. Quiapo Church is not just a religious site—it’s a cultural experience and a symbol of unwavering Filipino faith.

The Quiapo Church (officially the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene) is one of the most famous and historically significant churches in the Philippines. Key Highlights: Home of the Black Nazarene – The church houses the centuries-old dark wooden statue of Jesus Christ carrying the cross, believed to be miraculous by millions of devotees. Feast of the Black Nazarene – Every January 9, the Traslación procession draws millions of barefoot devotees who join the journey of the statue through the streets of Manila. Baroque and Neo-Classical Design – Originally built in the 16th century, the present structure has a mix of Baroque and Neo-Classical styles, rebuilt several times due to fires and earthquakes. Devotional Center – Known as the “Gawad ng Bayan ng Maynila” (shrine of the people of Manila), it’s a place where thousands visit daily to pray, light candles, and attend Mass. Plaza Miranda – The public square in front of the church, a popular gathering area surrounded by vendors, fortune tellers, and food stalls, adding to Quiapo’s vibrant atmosphere. Accessibility – Located in the heart of Manila, it’s easily reachable by jeepneys, LRT, and buses.

A beautiful church! It's commonly known as Quiapo Church. The dark statue of Jesus Christ said to be miraculous.

Welcome to the Church of the Nazarene, a global Christian church that emphasizes the teachings of Jesus Christ and the experience of a life transformed by the Holy Spirit."

Inside is clean. But outside it's wall isn't. Good to do some photo ops inside. There are tall large trees thats give shades & fresh air. No entrance fee. I like these place than fort Santiago.

This peaceful, circular park in the heart of Manila is one of the most historic yet underrated spots in the city. I visited recently, and while the St. Pancratius Chapel was closed when we arrived, we still managed to take some great photos. It’s a serene place, ideal for jogging, quiet reflection, or simply chilling while soaking up a bit of Philippine history. Parking is available for motorcycles, and while cars can also park, the spaces are limited, so plan accordingly. Originally built as a municipal cemetery during the Spanish colonial period, Paco Park became the resting place for the elite of Manila, including priests, nobles, and even heroes. Fun fact: Dr. José Rizal was secretly interred here after his execution in 1896, before his remains were later moved to Rizal Park. His original burial site is marked and can still be seen inside the park. The St. Pancratius Chapel, located within the park’s inner circle, is a popular wedding venue due to its intimate, historic ambiance. While we couldn’t go inside, its charming exterior alone made it worth the stop. And as a cat lover, I was happy to see friendly cats roaming freely around the park — adding to the peaceful and homey vibe of the place. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a jogger, or someone just looking to escape the busy city for a while, Paco Park offers a beautiful and historic break from the chaos of Manila.

Paco Park is pretty chill—quiet, green, and easy to wander through, though nothing too wow. it’s “relatively quiet” and “serene,” perfect for an early-morning jog or low-key stroll . It used to be a cemetery and still feels like a small, historical hideaway in the city. If you’re after a simple place to unwind or snap a few photos, it does the job—but don’t expect more than that.

a really nice historical park that used to be a cemetery during colonial times. national hero José Rizal was first buried there before his remains were transferred to its final resting place in Luneta. But I went there to pay remembrance to Gomburza, the martyred priests. I wish that the funeral chapel was opened when we visited. It was nice to see a lot of young people group dancing.

Within walking distance of my home, underwhelmed, quiet park & cemetery. The website says 110 peso entrance, wrong, it's free. Easy to find, up UN from Roxas Blvd, at Taft there are 5 roads, go right on the road diagonally between Taft & UN upper, about 700m on your left.

It's a small historical nice place with a lot of greenery.

Paco Park is a hidden gem in Manila, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Its circular layout, shaded by old trees, creates a calm and serene vibe, perfect for a quiet stroll or picnic. The park’s history adds to its charm, especially with the small chapel and old walls surrounding it. Notably, it’s also the site of Dr. José Rizal’s first grave, making it a meaningful stop for history buffs. Though small, the park feels intimate—like a little slice of peace and history right in the heart of the city.

It was “ok.” Total tourist trap. Same items o er and over. Recommend touring the whole place before making a purchase for a big item. I found a 3 piece suit for 3,600 then found it in the mall for 2,800p. :( Also watch for professional pick pocketers who use kids and seniors to work their schemes. Americans don’t be so obvious you got money. But some can’t help it. Just be cautious and watch each other.

Not bike friendly, pretty ideal place to buy stuff at in bulk, food court at third floor is fine and spacious, but generally an ok place inside but a difficult area outside

The perfect place if youre looking for cheaper products. Too crowded but you will enjoy

Divisoria’s had a glow-up! It’s still the go-to spot for budget shopping, but now it’s noticeably cleaner and more organized. The streets are less crowded with vendors, making it easier to walk around and even drive through. You’ll still find unbeatable deals on clothes, textiles, accessories, and school supplies—sulit pa rin talaga—but with a more pleasant shopping experience.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this market to anyone looking for affordable products. Just be prepared to haggle a bit! 😊"

Organized as compared before Yorme's term. Now the area was arranged in place and people are now disciplined(somehow) with the use of police in the area.

As usual there's always new things to buy at a cheaper price.

It is a good place to go to if you need a place to unwind. Also the use of different lights accentuates the beauty of the artworks. But, I went here during the redevelopment of the CCP, that's why the only floor that was open to the public is the third floor which is an art gallery hall. Nice experience even though I didn't get the full experience.

One of the prettiest sunsets ive seen in Manila! It was neat and well maintained. Its a good place to contemplate, relax, walk and even catch up with friends while seeing nature. There's only limited food options around which could be good to keep its cleanliness. On the other side, its a well known location for jogging and working out.

A great place for cultural & tourism events at Pasay City. It was conceived in 1966 when President Ferdinand Marcos issued Executive Order No. 60, establishing its board and arranging for his wife, First Lady Imelda Marcos to become chair of its board of directors.

Its a place where the Sagisag Marathon will be held. Hope I'll win something aside from the race. God Bless all runners who will participate and keep safe always. 07-09-23 It's still the same, lots of homeless people, while running along Pasay City. The only thing I can do is pray for them and hope that they will always be safe.😊🥰 During a fun run, the place is still smelly ahaha I'm not sure if it's because of a lot of industrial buildings around it. But I enjoyed running with strangers😊🥰

The place has been just recently reopened (September) and will be soon closed for renovation (since January 1, 2023) for at least 2 years. So hurry up if you want to see the exhibition of over 200 artworks and archival materials of Imelda Cajipe Endaya. The exhibition titled “Refusal and Hope, a Retrospective” can be viewed at the main gallery and adjacent hallways. It will last until December 4. The venue is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance is free of charge.

Incredible piece of architecture. Incredible interiors - not a thing i usually see. You can really say that there's an architect who worked on in here. Art appreciation. Filipino paintings. Exhibits. Ballets. Orchestra. The red floor carpet all throughout is a pleasure to walk into! The comfort rooms are clean. It's so quiet inside, and along with the collection of arts inside, that it makes the interior so "holy" or "creepy" and I think that's cool because this experience is really meant to touch your soul, consciousness. The miniature of the who complex is nice as well. I have always thought this place to be exclusive to elite people. But after stepping up the stairs and going thru the door, my perception changed; the place welcoming to everyone!

I used to jog in this place when I lived in Manila. It's relaxing in here. Many people comes to jog every morning and night or either just standby. I could still remember the breeze of air in this area and how relaxing it is just to sit down and chill during night, seeing people and vehicles move towards different directions.

I had a wonderful visit to the National History Museum of the Philippines. The exhibits were truly amazing, and the facility was very clean and well-maintained. The highlight for me was seeing "Lolong," the world's largest crocodile in captivity, as well as the impressive collection of turtles, which as a turtle enthusiast, I greatly appreciated. While parking can be a challenge, the museum is easily accessible. A great tip for visitors is that admission is free. A recent update has made it even better: the National Museum of the Philippines is now open seven days a week with free admission for all. This makes it an enjoyable and accessible visit for everyone.

Getting straight to the point.... Pros: 1. FREE ENTRANCE (wooohooo!) 2. Rich collection of historical and learning materials. 3. 5 floors worth of science and history! 4. The life-sized lolong piece is a must see! 5. FULLY AIR-CONDITIONED AIR-CONDITIONED 6. Instagrammable! Cons: 1. Some of the features were not functioning like the TVs and other visual aids which made the experience a bit lacking. 2. Some of the visitors were too noisy. Not recommended for people who like a more silent atmosphere. 3. Lack of navigational aids. You might get lost or confused if you are not that attentive or observant. We decided to start our tour from the lowest floor and go all the way up because there was no recommended starting point.

Very Instagrammable! 📸 Be prepared for a long walk when you visit, but good thing there are chairs around the building to rest. My eyes were so full with everything I saw and learned about the Philippines’ natural history. And yes, Lolong the crocodile is there! 🐊🇵🇭 Mas maganda pumunta ng weekdays para kakaunti ang tao. Free entrance, just present one valid ID for the whole group if you’re going with company. Vlogging is not allowed, selfie sticks are not allowed—just cellphones. Some elevators are closed, so be ready for a little extra walking. Worth it!

i have to say it truly is an experience. went on a rainy sunday aftie and i thought i wouldn’t like it ‘coz it was raining, but when i got inside, i had fun looking at the taxidermies of extinct animals, the unearthed ancient tools, rocks and gems, diff land masses & bodies of water in the PH, mangrove forests, flowers, fruits, lava and the highlights of my day - LOLO and a portrait of the PH eagle!! the one lost star in the rating was for rhe baggage counter- the line took a while, a long while, like 20mins just to claim our umbrella. maybe they can devise another baggage counter?!

There is so much to see and learn about here, this museum is massive and it is just a delight. The curators have taken a lot of pride in laying this museum out and explaining the history of the biology and the geology of the Philippines. And while I know that doesn't sound incredibly interesting at first it actually is a lot of fun, I would definitely recommend this place and you can take your time enjoying it. There's also good aircon here as well.

I didn’t expect this museum to be so big! There’s so much to see on every floor — you could easily spend the whole day learning about the Philippines’ incredible biodiversity, wildlife, and ecosystems. It would be even better if they offered a map or audio guide in the future to make navigation easier. The building is clean, well-maintained, and comfortably cool, making it pleasant to explore even on a hot day. Highly recommend visiting this place.

One of the best places you can visit in Manila, and the entrance is free! Full of awesome collections of nature, one being the biggest ever recorded crocodile "Lolong"! To top it all off, the museum looks stunning both outside and inside every single one of the rooms!

Hoping for more free green public spaces in Metro Manila such as this one to take a break from the city pollutions. Super fresh ng air and you really get to chill. Medyo kulang lang sa benches kapag peak hours ka pumunta. Their comfort rooms are decent and clean. The place is well-maintained. There's also a coffee shop just beside the park's exit.

Outside of the park is clean and has food stalls available. It also has tables where you can sit, eat, and rest. Fairly quiet and atmosphere is nice. I wish to enter the park soon!! (been there only for dance practice outside) 😉

This park is located on the southern bank of the Pasig River Established in 1993 It is located in the historic district of Manila and is the only natural park in Manila. The park is free to enter, but bringing in bottled water and food is prohibited. However, there are benches inside the park for you to enjoy the forest bathing. On the east side, there is a terrace where you can see the Pasig River flowing. On the southeast side of the park, there is a tank with koi fish. During the Spanish rule, the area where Arroceros Forest Park was located was a commercial center called Parián de Arroceros. The name Parián and today's Arroceros comes from the Spanish word for "rice farmer", indicating that this was the place where rice was transported along the river and eventually sold to consumers and retailers. It was later home to a Spanish tobacco company factory in the 19th century. During the Philippine Revolution and the First Philippine Republic, the revolutionary army besieged Intramuros and took control of the area for a while. During the American colonial period, it was used as a military base. After World War II and Philippine independence, it was converted into the headquarters of the Department of Education. In 1993, when the Department of Education was relocated to another city, it was developed into the current park. The green color of the forest relieves eye fatigue and brings peace of mind. It naturally focuses human attention and has the effect of relieving fatigue. Phytoncide is a substance that trees produce to protect themselves from pests and injuries. Phytoncide is a compound word of ‘Phyton’, meaning plant, and ‘Cide’, meaning to kill. It relieves inflammation, and volatile phytoncides present in the air in the forest stimulate the human sense of smell, bringing peace of mind and a sense of comfort. Negative ions, which neutralize the human body, which is prone to acidification in daily life, exist in large quantities in pleasant natural environments such as the respiratory function of forests, the neutralization of soil in forests, and valleys or around waterfalls. The sound generated in the forest has the characteristics of a relatively wide range of white sound that makes people comfortable and improves concentration. The forest contains 1-2% more oxygen than the city, and it helps our body's metabolism and brain activation. In this way, the efficacy of the forest is also very beneficial for growing children. It is recommended to get away from daily life and become one with nature to enjoy peace of mind. In April 2024, during the El Nino phenomenon, this park received media attention when it recorded a high of 36 degrees Celsius, which was 5 degrees lower than the 41 degrees Celsius in other parts of Manila. Such low temperatures highlight the role of this park in coping with the urban heat island phenomenon. That is why Aeroceros Forest Park is the only natural park in Manila called "Manila's last lung."

The park is one of my favorite spots in Manila to relax. It's cooler, quieter, and well-maintained in the city. The trees in the park are relatively young and hopefully will grow healthy and untouched by the city government. The area is almost the same size as Plaza Moriones and its vicinity, excluding Fort Santiago in Intramuros. You can explore the park in no more than 30 minutes. There are elevated walkways, a fountain in the middle of the park, and a koi fish pond. There are comfort rooms located near the exit. A boardwalk is present at the riverbank of the Pasig River, showing beautiful views of the River, Quezon Bridge, and Ayala Bridge. You can see the Makati City skyline on a clear day in the distance. Hopefully, they would put benches on the boardwalk for comfort as well. The entrance is free and open until 5 in the afternoon. Bottled drinks are not allowed inside. The park was known as Parian de Arroceros, and this site had its brutal past. The Spaniards massacred 20,000 Chinese in the Parian after the Chinese revolted from the Spaniards. After destroying the Chinese settlement at the Parian de Arroceros, the Spaniards built a tobacco factory called Fabrica de Arroceros, the country's first private tobacco company, many years later in the 19th century. During the American era, they used the factory as a military garrison in the 20th century. It became the headquarters of the Department of Education in the post-war years. In 1993, the government initiated the development of a forest on the site to preserve the 150-year-old trees that had withstood the devastating bombardment of Manila during World War II. It is regarded as the city's sole forest or the last lung of Manila, housing an estimated 3,000 trees belonging to endemic and native species.

Spacing here out was so great. I can find peace through the quiet, green tress, breath of the wind, and the sound of birds which can heal my inner self to ever come stresses. ♥️♥️I really love this place.

A quiet oasis in the middle of a busy city, the last lung of Manila lets you breathe for a while and spend more time with yourself (or the people you love). It truly feels like an escape.

Chill and serene place. There are cute cats all around so it's a plus. Good for those who like walking. Had fun looking at the names of the trees. This place was mostly maintained, so they're strict if you're bring foods maybe because of the litter. There is an outside coffee shop so you can grab some after strolling.

You could say it was a nice mall, but the prices for all brands were higher than expected. It’s actually more of a fancy mall with exclusive brands. But the park in the middle of the mall buildings was really beautiful—perfect for taking pictures and relaxing. Especially if you love cats! They had food and water set out for them, and the whole place had a chill, stress-free vibe. The restaurants around the park were pretty good too.

Ayala Greenbelt is one of the best malls in Makati. The atmosphere is clean, peaceful, and well-maintained. I really liked the mix of high-end stores, casual shops, and great dining options. The open-air garden areas are beautiful — a nice break from the busy city vibe. We enjoyed walking around, shopping, and trying out some food spots. It’s a good place to relax, whether you’re with friends, family, or just by yourself. Security is visible, and the entire place feels safe and organized. Definitely a must-visit mall when you’re in Makati.

Very nice mall, one of my favourite love the concept of mall surrounded by greenery, also like the ponds, really nice chapel in the middle which was very lovely, i didn't do much shopping but did do a lot of eating, only slight negative thing am pretty sure I was circling greenbelt 3 for a little while, might need clearer direction to other malls or might just have been down to my sense of direction on that day .

A lot of restaurants and shops. Good place for relaxing.

super down to earth shopping mall full of famous brands and restaurants. got so many lovely cats inside the mall!

Will be nice in a years time once All the construction is finished .but it has some very classy and upmarket restraints. Clearly plenty of money being spent round here give. The high boutiques like Dior etc

The place is just so trendy. People, all walks of life, just leisurely walking through or go for shopping in those trendy shops. There are also shops where you can unwind, have your meals, in different kind of cuisines to select from.

I can’t say this beach blew my mind. Its a nice clean place (it shows how hard they are trying to upkeep it) where you can relax and enjoy sunset and hangout. There are a handful of people but in my opinion it’s not to crowded. But I must say it was quite shocking when the security at exactly 7PM lead us all off the beach. My first time experiencing this (as a European).

Open from 6:00 am with free entrance. I had to bin my plastic water bottle which I had in my hand at the gate, as I have been told that I can’t go with it. I couldn’t place it in my bag. I guess they take care of the beach environment that way. Beach was very tidy. You can have there maybe 10-15 mins walk. Apparently you can’t swim there. At least you sit and relax or exercise like some people there. :)

A nice spot to relax in the city—free entrance, relatively clean, and there are trash bins around to help keep it that way. Guards are present at the entrance and exits, and there are restrooms available. You’ll also find street vendors near the footbridge if you want snacks or drinks. Good for a quick stroll or sunset view without spending anything.

Good place to watch the sunset. But it was clouded at the entrance area. You can walk along the beach to find a quiet spot and enjoy the sunset.

Nice, President duterte, another project that people will always remember him for. The area is clean. I'm glad they restricted people from coming inside to keep the area clean.

Manila Bay Beach presents a mixed experience for visitors. The artificial white sand, created through beach nourishment, offers a visually striking contrast to the typically murky waters of Manila Bay. This has undeniably created a recreational space that attracts locals and tourists alike, especially for sunset viewing along the Baywalk. The revitalized area provides a venue for leisurely strolls and social gatherings. However, it's important to note that the beach is artificial, utilizing crushed dolomite. Concerns regarding potential long-term environmental impacts and the suitability of the water for swimming persist due to consistently high fecal coliform levels, despite reported improvements in water quality near the shore. While the government discourages swimming, many still wade in the shallows. Beyond the aesthetics, Manila Bay holds historical significance as a major trading port and the site of historical battles. The adjacent Baywalk offers various dining options and sometimes features live music, contributing to a lively atmosphere, particularly on weekends. Nearby attractions such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila Ocean Park, and the massive SM Mall of Asia provide additional points of interest for those visiting the area. In conclusion, Manila Bay Beach offers a unique urban beach experience with its artificial sand and vibrant atmosphere. While the visual appeal and recreational opportunities are present, potential visitors should be aware of the ongoing environmental concerns and the current unsuitability of the water for swimming. It serves more as a scenic promenade and social space rather than a traditional beach destination for swimming and sunbathing.

Nice place to sit watch world go by very busy lots of ships families kids the beach is more like white gravel no one in water but still ok

If you’re ever in Makati or Manila, you have to check out Ayala Triangle Gardens. 🌿 At night, it completely transforms—so many people are out running, walking, or just hanging out, and the whole place comes alive with energy. The light displays are beautiful and add such a magical vibe to the evenings. ✨ Surrounded by stunning malls and modern architecture, the gardens are super clean, well-maintained, and feel very safe, which makes it the perfect spot to relax or people-watch. Whether you want to exercise, grab a bite, or just soak in the atmosphere, Ayala Triangle gives you the best of both worlds—nature right in the middle of the city, with urban convenience all around. Overall, it’s one of those places you’ll definitely want to visit, whether you’re new to Makati or just exploring Manila. 🌆🌴

Ayala Triangle Park is such an amazing place. I've visited at different times of the year, and it’s always a great experience. Whether it’s Car-Free Sunday or the Christmas Lights Festival in December, there’s always something enjoyable and lively happening. The surrounding views of the buildings are also incredibly beautiful and make the whole area feel special. This is definitely a must-visit spot.

Such a peaceful escape right in the heart of Makati 🌿✨ Ayala Triangle Gardens never fails to impress — a perfect balance of nature and city life. The wide open space, towering trees, and refreshing greenery make it a great spot to relax, especially after the rain when everything feels extra calm and fresh. You can sit on the benches, grab a coffee nearby, and just enjoy the view of the surrounding buildings and lights. A beautiful reminder that even in the busy city, there’s still room to breathe. 🌳☕🌦️

Ayala triangle is really a nice place for winding up, it’s like a haven in the middle of a chaotic place, basically a park in the middle of a city. They doing some renovations to improve the grounds i think which is really cool. I went here around 10am on a weekday so there aren’t a lot of people. Overall a nice place, just chill walking, sightseeing, etc…

such a lovely spot in the heart of Makati. We went during the day and sadly it rained during our visit, but it was still a great experience. The fresh air, open space, and greenery make it perfect for a walk or just relaxing. Kids can run around freely, and there are plenty of nice restaurants nearby. I’d love to come back on a sunny day to enjoy it even more!

well-manicured garden with jogging trails and different dining options to choose from. i really love visiting this place and been here very often lately. 5⭐️

Beautiful place where you can walk in the mornings. Full of cats too. Great place to get some fresh air and peace but watch out for the bugs in certain areas

This place is perfect for family bonding and if you are into extreme rides you'll definitely enjoy this place. They also offer lockers for only 20php per hour. They also have different kinds of attraction for kids and even kids by heart will enjoy this. Kids also can enjoy in this place because they also have rides for kids but some of rides have a height limit.

There was a typhoon when we went so the outdoor rides were temporarily closed. We enjoyed the indoor rides but felt that there were fewer rides compared to when I went there in my childhood. I miss the blizzard coaster as well. When the weather became good for a while, some rides started to operate, my favorite was the Star Frisbee! Unfortunately, we didn’t get to try the Star Flyer and Ferris Wheel due to the sudden heavy rain. Nevertheless, we enjoyed our time there!

We celebrated my daughter’s birthday at Star City, and it was such a fun and memorable day! The rides, lights, and friendly staff made the experience extra special. A bit crowded, but totally worth it — she had an amazing time!

We finally visited Star City after it closed due to the fire in 2019, even though my son was able to go with his grandparents back in 2022 when it reopened. Most of the ride names have changed, like Vikings, which is now called Sea Horse, and Wild River, which is now Jungle Splash. They also have new 3D attractions. And, in fairness, the food prices inside are quite affordable—not too pricey. We also bought tickets from Klook for a discount, and we had a separate entrance so we didn't have to queue in line. Surprisingly, Star City was not crowded even though it was a Saturday.

Its bigger than what I expect, indoor and outdoor all of it was good and well maintained, got food and snacks you can choose, a lot of merchandise stalls, ticket price is great for all of this entertainment, plentiful of games you can spend whole day here but pls stop having sealife shows, we could have much better options than using animals as entertainment.

I visited this place with my cousins. I was lucky because they had a promo for birthday celebrants this month, and since it’s my birthday, I got free entry and access to all the rides. It was such a good experience!” 🎉🎂✨

I remember Star City being way bigger than what it actually is - but I visited way way back, potentially 15 years ago so understood many things have changed. Nonetheless, it was still a magical place especially for the kids who enjoyed everything and the adults also who had their fair share of fun. I recommend purchasing tickets in advanced to avoid long queues! Will be back again if given the chance.

I've been to many zoos and didn't expect them to have so few animals. The birds are well taken care of. There’s not much grass for the zebras to eat and I’m a bit concerned about the lions and tigers in their enclosures, their spaces seem a bit too small for them. They look sad. :(

Manila Zoo is a modest attraction — not spectacular, but definitely enjoyable for young kids. The zoo is relatively small, which makes it easier to explore, and the layout is quite organized even though the overall cleanliness could be improved. They do have the popular animals that children usually look forward to seeing, which keeps the visit exciting for them. Be aware that food and drinks from outside aren’t allowed, but there are a few food outlets inside for snacks and refreshments. Parking can be a bit tight, though you can usually find a spot with some patience. Overall, it’s a decent family outing if you’re looking for something simple and kid-friendly within the city.

🌿 Family Day at the Zoo – Our Experience 🐒🦒🦓 We recently visited Manila Zoo Name, and here’s our family’s honest review: Ratings: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Animal Variety & Care: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – Lots of animals to see, though some enclosures could use more shade and enrichment. Cleanliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – Paths were mostly clean. Facilities (benches, rest areas, comfort): ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) – Could use more shaded seating areas. Food & Refreshments: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5) – Limited options due to limited food stalls, more variety would make the visit more convenient. Staff & Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Staff were approachable and helpful. ✅ What we loved: The kids enjoyed learning about animals through the signages. The walking areas gave us a good mix of exercise and exploration. The giraffes and monkeys were the stars of our day! 🔎 What could be improved: Add more rest areas for families. Expand food stalls with healthier and more kid-friendly choices. Upgrade some animal enclosures for a more natural feel. 🌟 Overall: A wonderful family experience! With a few improvements, this zoo could truly shine as a top attraction for kids and animal lovers. Would we recommend it? Yes — it’s a fun and educational trip for families! 💕

Our son enjoyed his first visit to Manila Zoo, running around its now spacious area. Although some animals were not present when we visited. One of his favorite animals is the giraffe, so he went looking for it, but he never saw it. I personally appreciate the comfort rooms—each cubicle has its own bidets, good water pressure, and the unique design of the sinks. 😁 They also have a separate diaper changing room for those who have babies/toddlers.

Fine place to spend a couple hours during the afternoon. If you go earlier in the day, there may be less finger smudges on the glass on some of the exhibits. Non-Manila residents spend 300 pesos a person. Manila residents spend 150 pesos. You can’t bring in your own food or water - probably so they can make more money at their own food stalls. There’s no public water fountains there for staying hydrated. May a marketing strategy, if you are walking around in the hot sun, you are more likely to purchase a drink there. For the value, I think it’s worth a visit. Not the greatest zoo I have been to but probably the cheapest one.

This place is cool. A definite must for lovers in Manila. A absolute must for trips with kids. They have exhibits with a tiger, a lion, and other animals. The scariest exhibit is the one with the aligators. Those things are dinosaurs! The selection for eating is surprisingly varied and rather tasty. The zoo has a nice coffee shop that serves aldente pasta. They should improve the expanded metal walkways as they are already rusty and are slippery in the rain.

There weren’t a lot of animals, but it’s still a really nice place to hang out since it’s super kid-friendly and has plenty of play areas. Too bad it was raining when we went, so we couldn’t chill on the benches and enjoy the fountain view and peaceful vibes.

Facade of the Minor Baailica, known as the Quiapo Church. There is no parking area. You need to park in a safe space where no crooks that can vandalise your car or clamp a wheel. Other than that, the Church was accessible by foot.

Some reminders from a weekly devotee: - safest paid parking lot is located at Quinta Market. This is a newly renovated place which now looks like a tiny mall. They have 24/7 paid parking at the 2nd floor. - all mass attendees need to proceed at Carriedo area where you have to fall in line and wait for the church officers to give you a contact tracing form. You will see the yellow markings on the street once u reach there. - all fully vaccinated must show their vaccination card before you will be given a contact tracing form - those who are partially/not yet vaccinated, your line is on the right side (when facing the church). Sometimes they will only allow you for 'padungaw' depending on the amount of crowd for the day - earliest mass is at 5am, and there's no mass at 11am. Mass resumes at 12nn then 130pm in the afternoon - bring your own pen & wear comfortable clothes as you might fall in line for about 30mins or more - as of nov 7, 2021 church capacity has been increased (4 persons per row) so better be early to secure a seat - buy your religious items before going inside. They will bless them at the end of each mass by going to your designated seats - wear mask at all times and bring your faceshield. The church's health & safety protocol is very strict. Hope this helps. All the effort, sweat, and battling the usual crowd of Manila will be all worth it after you attended the mass. It will bring you the joy you crave, and the humility you need. ❤

There's a decent motorcycle parking area available where you can park your motorbike for only 30 pesos. When you enter the perimeter, there are step signs placed at approximately 1-meter intervals, ensuring that social distancing is maintained. However, we decided not to go inside."

Beautiful church. A must visit if you are nearby.

Old Downtown of Manila, Quiapo is home to the Quiapo Church, where the feast of the Black Nazarene is held with millions of people attending annually. Quiapo has also made a name for itself as a place for marketplace bargain hunting.

Around the church great place din to buy some fruits and vegetables even phone cases at an affordable price. Please do observe protocol within the vicinity of church. For mass offerings and others, nasa kabilang gilid po ng simbahan sa carriedo na side

It's guarded by the church usherettes and by the nearby police for safety. It's ready for Simbang Gabi mass attendees (also online mass).

Known as one of the oldest Chinatown in the world. Visited this place during the All saints day which was great as there was minimal crowd. We came here for a food crawl. Tried various types of Chinese cuisine which made us miss home very much. Overall a good blend of Chinatown and Philippines. Don’t forget to stop by for a cup of sugar cane for thirst quenching.

You must visit this chaos , many shops and many shoping malls, a lot of people philippinos you feel really good to see how the philippinos shoping, eating, only you have to take care of your pocket and from taxi mafia....

Manila's China Town - an interesting place for sure, amongst all the small streets you can find some decent Chinese restaurants, many jewelry shops and lots of hustle and bustle on the streets, a hive of activity. Worth a visit when in Manila

Lively and full of culture! Chinatown in Manila is great for food trips, shopping, and exploring old streets with rich history. 🏮🥢 Some areas can get crowded and parking is tough, but the food and atmosphere make it worth the visit!

On a Monday morning, it seem quieter than other Chinatowns visited previously. You can tell industry workers and shops are still functionning

We were excited to visit Ongpin and Binondo at night, to experience the history and to walk through the busy streets of Chinatown. Traffic, both pedestrian and vehicles, was high; the streets were crowded, and we had to skedaddle our way in and out of the sidewalk. It was a great experience nonetheless! Lots of Chinese dish options and dim sum. A huge plus; we got to see a large pistachio moon cake as it is mid-autumn season!

This China town isn't large but isn't small either. I got some photos for other visitors navigate it easy. At the Opposite site of the Lucky China Town mall, there are some alleys or pathways lead to China town center where are full of chinese restaurants , eatery area and hotels , you name it. The roads are narrow and a bit dirty. But you can find many things here with good price

The place is good, also the bed is clean very accommodating all the staff.. I recommend it to all people to try this...

Great service The room was very spacious, clean, and had the amenities we needed.♥️♥️

The place is clean and very affordable. It is also accessible to needed amenities.

This sooo nice! place. I have nothing to say for this place . Just book now

Very accomodating staff for sure we will come back again

Bed bath laundry all there. Good for big group on temporary stay.

Nice quiet place, cheap room for 150 pesos with air-conditioning 👍👍👍👍 I recommend this place for who want a budget rooms 👍👍👍😊

The University of Santo Tomas was once a prisoner of war camp during the Second World War. It was liberated on the third of February 1945 when elements of the 1st Cavalry Division (led by tanks) crashed into the university's gates guided by the intrepid Filipino guerrillas. On the seventh of that same month, Douglas MacArthur himself visited the internees of the camp as evidenced by the pictures taken on that day.

Absolutely beautiful and iconic place. The grounds is very well-maintained and seemed very safe. I took a nice quick look at the museum that was quite small but captured the essence of the importance of the university. The university just had a really nice vibe to it and the greenery was just really nice to look at. Had no issues with anyone here and everyone was just friendly.

University of Santo Tomas, my Alma Mater is the oldest existing university in Asia and one of the most prestigious and top private universities in the Philippines. Absolutely beautiful and iconic, a lot of greeneries and trees in the campus.

This is the biggest university in the city of Manila and being the only Pontifical university in the Philippines it was the only university to be visited by the Pope. The main building is truly an architectural heritage as the first earthquake-proof structure in the entire country. You could have a leisurely walk around its several parks or hear mass an the air conditioned Santissimo Rosario Parish. The Museum of Arts and Sciences is the oldest existing museum in the country so it is worth a visit. The University will be celebrating its 400th founding anniversary next year so there will be a lot of activities planned.

One of the most beautiful universities in the Philippines. It's clean, very spacious, and it's really nice to walk inside the campus as it has lots of green space. It feels so calming and relaxing just strolling around and sitting in the park areas. The university was also able to preserve and maintain the ancient feels and facade of its Main Building which is facing the España side.

Still one of the top PH university. Has multiple ambient sceneries despite being in a compact campus in Manila. Multiple places to study or even chill. Various amenities for students, faculties and visitors.

This is one of the iconic and the oldest existing university in Asia. It is also the largest Catholic university in the world. Dec 2023: Excited for Paskuhan 2023 😊

This plaza park is quite basic and simple, but the city lights transform it into a more charming and elegant space at night. We visit about six times a year over the past two years, always finding a moment to enjoy the ambiance. However, the smell of the grass and pavements is unpleasant, often reminiscent of a toilet, especially when wet and stinky, which keeps us from walking on it. Kids love running around, begging for Starbucks drinks and Shakey’s takeout, adding a lively vibe to the otherwise modest park.

We come to this park on our every Manila trip... and this place is very cool in the late after or in the evening... It looks very romantic... Highly recommended for chilling out in the evening... Please check my Youtube channel for my travel Vlogs.

Tremendous improvement!!!! Clean and safe place nowadays but still don't let your guard down. Forget walking and rent a carriage to experience the true vibe of Manila.

It seems like a nice place to hang out, I just got there during a stormy day... The wind was strong but refreshing. The place was clean but it could be because no one was there to litter the streets...

Been here a lot of times but at this moment i found the amazing oil painting and the two artist name Rafael Labad and Mark Valdez... glad i came here and met these artist.❤🖌👍

Plaza Rajah Sulayman, also known as Rajah Sulayman Park, is a public square in Malate, Manila. It is bounded by Roxas Boulevard to the west, San Andres Street to the south, and Remedios Street to the north. The plaza is considered the center of Malate as it fronts the Malate Church, the main church of the district. The square is named after Rajah Sulayman, the late 16th-century sovereign of the Kingdom of Manila, who died in the Battle of Bangkusay Channel while resisting invading Spanish troops led by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi. The Square is also a place where you can see and buy paintings from new painters. You can also buy street foods ranging from pinoy style pancakes, potato twister chips, fishballs and the palamig with sago.

Not so many people out there. We enjoy the colorful lights of fountain and music. There are still some street vendor selling foods. The parking was so nice. They charge 50 pesos.

It’s a quaint and small park but the cathedral is next to it, the Palacio De Gobernador and a historical statue and fountain. The tram parks there too if you wanna catch it. There’s a KFC and Chowking nearby for food.

This lovely public square garden was once the epicentre of Spanish Colonial rule. Surrounding the square are 2 major government buildings, the Manila City Hall and the former residence of the Spanish Governor General of Philippines. Both lovely Neoclassical buildings. The imposing Neo-Romanesque Manila Cathedral.on the north side is probably the most popular of the landmark buildings in the area. This square is a great stop when visiting Intramuros.

Had a layover in Manila and took a Grab taxi to check out this place on my own. Arrived at this public square at 5:30am and was able to capture the beauty of this historical site before the crowd. Unfortunately I didn't have time to wait for the museum and Fort Santiago open. Will come back work a proper tour guide and have a better understanding of the history.

Right at the front of Manila Cathedral. Beautiful to go to day or night time. Has statue of Charles VI King of Spain. There's some vendors at the plaza. You can have a ride at the Kalesa. A horse transport.

USEFUL. 🚲 This is as useful as it is historic. Almost overshadowed by the majestic Manila Cathedral both literal and figurative, this plaza is almost unknown to most if they won't be deliberate in knowing this place. But the benches in front of the church speak of the plaza as an integral part of the Walled City. Useful because: + Bike racks! + Benches in front of the church + This is also where the popular public book spot is, where you can donate one and get one.

Very Filipino, very vibrant. We were there on a Sunday late afternoon. The cathedral's facade facing the plaza was glowing with the sunset's hue. Small stalls selling organic food, local crafts and souvenirs line up on one side while a busy crowd (a mixture of churchgoers, wedding entourage, tourists, and peddlers) is entertained by a group of street performers.

This place is busy at weekend specially in sunday night. If you have a plan to visit here please make sure you have foods to bring. Theres no cheap food or stall here except for fast food like kfc chowking ministop, but take note its always crowded and full specially KFC