Manila Travel Guide
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🇵🇭Manila Travel Guide: Culture, Food & Experiences Through My Lens
This Manila travel guide highlights the best neighborhoods, food, historic sites, and modern experiences for first‑time visitors and culture lovers alike.
Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, is a city where centuries of history meet modern urban energy. Founded as a Spanish colonial settlement in 1571, Manila later came under American rule for nearly 40 years, leaving behind a fascinating blend of architecture, culture, and traditions. From the historic streets of Intramuros and the colorful markets of Binondo — the world’s oldest Chinatown — to the contemporary vibes of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Manila is a city of contrasts that surprises travelers at every turn.
Whether you’re exploring centuries-old forts, sampling street food, wandering cobblestone alleys, or enjoying modern cafes and skyscraper views, Manila offers a rich tapestry of experiences. In this guide, I’ll take you through my cinematic journey of Manila, highlighting its history, culture, neighborhoods, food, and travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Key Neighborhoods & Highlights:
Intramuros: Historic walled city with colonial architecture, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church
Binondo: Bustling Chinatown filled with rich history, street food, and unique cultural experiences
Bonifacio Global City (BGC): Modern cityscape with street art, green spaces, and trendy dining
Makati: Major business and hotel district, vibrant nightlife, and convenient location for exploring the city
Why Manila? 🇵🇭
Watch My Manila Adventure on YouTube
Click through each section below to dive into the experiences I captured — from first impressions to hidden gems, historic sites, and modern city life.
My First Impressions of Manila
Episode 1: “My 1st Impressions of Manila 🇵🇭 | Was I expecting THIS??”
Neighborhoods Explored: Makati (where I stayed), Ayala Triangle, Salcedo Market
Why Makati Is the Perfect Base:
Makati is the central business district of Manila, making it an ideal neighborhood for first-time visitors. It’s centrally located, close to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (about 30–45 minutes by car), and offers easy access to historic neighborhoods like Intramuros, vibrant streets in Binondo, and modern hubs such as Bonifacio Global City (BGC).
Walking Around Makati:
Highly walkable areas like Ayala Triangle and Salcedo Market are lined with cafes, restaurants, shops, and green spaces — perfect for leisurely strolls and capturing cinematic moments.
Local weekend markets and rooftop gardens provide authentic city experiences.
Where I Stayed:
Getting Around:
Grab App: Air-conditioned car rides, convenient for solo or group trips.
Move It: Grab’s motorbike service — fast for solo travelers, especially during traffic.
Local Transportation: Jeepneys and tricycles are perfect for short hops within neighborhoods but not ideal for longer city trips.
Highlights of My Day:
Rizal Park: Iconic green space and historical landmark
Salcedo Market: A must-visit for local food and snacks
Ayala Triangle: Peaceful urban oasis in Makati
Greenfield Weekend Market: Night market vibes and local eats
Market! Market!: Bustling shopping destination
SM Mall of Asia: One of the largest malls in the world
Robinsons Place Mall: Popular shopping hub for locals
Watch Binondo,Philippines The World’s Oldest Chinatown on YouTube
Watch the episode and explore Binondo’s rich history, flavors, and culture!
🎬 Episode 2: Binondo, Manila — The World’s Oldest Chinatown 🇵🇭
Step into the world’s oldest Chinatown — a place where history, heritage, and flavor collide. Founded in 1594, Binondo grew as a trading hub during the Spanish colonial era and became the heart of Manila’s Chinese-Filipino community for over four centuries. Every street tells a story, from Spanish-era architecture and ancestral temples to the sizzling woks of food stalls that have been serving locals for generations. Exploring Binondo today is a step back in time, where culture, commerce, and cuisine intertwine.
Neighborhoods & Highlights:
Historic Streets & Landmarks: Visit Binondo Church, one of Manila’s oldest landmarks, originally established by Dominican priests in 1596.
Culinary Must-Try:
Vege Select (formerly Quan Yin Chay): A beloved vegetarian spot known for flavorful local dishes; grab a fresh sugarcane juice from the vendor right out front.
Lumpia: Traditional Filipino-style spring rolls that perfectly blend Chinese and Filipino influences.
Eng Bee Tin Binondo Flagship Store: A must for any sweet tooth — try the iconic ube hopia and other pastries.
Chuan Kee Chinese Fast Food: Classic dumplings at this historic eatery, open since 1940, where the flavors are as rich in history as the area itself.
Nearby Gems: Divisoria for shopping and local cafés for a quick coffee or snack.
Highlights & Must-Do Experiences:
Insider Tip:
Binondo is best explored on foot — the energy of the streets, the aroma of the food, and the charm of the people make it an unforgettable experience. Follow your curiosity — the best bites often hide down side streets that don’t show up on maps.
Tours & Tickets:
FOR ALL: Skip- the- line tickets, Daytrips, Events:
Guided Food Tour of Binondo with Tastings
Intramuros, Chinatown, and Old Manila Half-Day Tour
Watch Intramuros, Manila -Day Trip by Bamboo Bike on YouTube
Step Inside Manila’s Historic Walled City — Bamboo Bike Adventure!
🎬 Episode 3: Exploring Intramuros by Bamboo Bike 🚲
Intramuros — Manila’s historic walled city — is where the story of the capital truly begins. Established in the 1570s, this nearly 500‑year-old district was the heart of Spanish colonial Manila and remains one of the most fascinating neighborhoods to explore on foot or by bike today. Intramuros isn’t a museum behind glass — it’s a living city with restored stone walls, quiet gardens, and centuries of layered history waiting to be uncovered.
On my day trip, I hopped on a bamboo bike and pedaled through cobblestone streets, past historic forts, churches, and colonial plazas. This immersive ride gives a deeper look at how the city was designed during Spanish rule, and how it evolved through centuries of history, including the American period and World War II reconstruction.
Neighborhoods & Highlights:
Fort Santiago: Explore the iconic citadel, once a Spanish fortress and later a prison. Its walls, plazas, and statues tell the stories of Manila’s heroes and its turbulent past.
San Agustin Church: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest stone church in the Philippines, with intricate Baroque interiors.
Plaza de Roma: A peaceful square at the heart of Intramuros, perfect for photos or soaking up colonial ambiance.
Colonial Streets & Lanes: Cobblestone streets, restored Spanish-era houses, and shaded alleys offer endless photography opportunities.
Local Shops & Cafés: Quaint cafés, souvenir shops, and small galleries tucked between historic buildings add charm to your ride.
👇 Book the day trip below if you want to experience Intramuros the same way I did:
Insider Tip:
Go early for soft morning light and fewer crowds — ideal for photos.
Wear comfortable shoes, even when biking, as some streets are uneven.
Bring water to stay hydrated — Manila can be hot and humid.
Take your time: Each plaza, lane, and corner has a story to tell.
Watch I Returned to BGC - Because of You! on YouTube
Watch the episode and explore Manila’s modern heartbeat!
🎬 Episode 4: I Returned to Bonifacio Global City "BGC" 🇵🇭 Because of YOU!
BGC is Manila’s sleek, contemporary counterpart to the historic streets of Intramuros. This vibrant business and lifestyle district pulses with energy — modern skyscrapers, street art, green parks, and trendy cafés define the area. During my visit, I followed recommendations from viewers and discovered why BGC is a must-visit for anyone who loves art, design, food, and walkable city experiences.
Neighborhoods & Highlights:
High Street: A pedestrian-friendly stretch perfect for strolling, shopping, and snapping photos of modern architecture. Street art and murals pop up around every corner.
Bonifacio Global City Parks: Chill in open green spaces like Track 30th or Terra 28th, ideal for people-watching or a quick break.
Art & Murals: From massive colorful walls to curated public installations, BGC is a canvas for contemporary Filipino art.
Restaurants & Cafés: Modern dining spots with indoor-outdoor seating, coffee shops, and international cuisine — perfect for brunch or lunch.
Evening Vibes: BGC comes alive at night with bars, music, and lively streets perfect for an evening stroll.
Insider Tips:
Explore on foot to really feel the energy of the district.
Early morning is perfect for photos with softer light and fewer people.
Don’t miss the murals and public art — many are tucked down side streets.
High Street is pedestrian-friendly, so wear comfortable shoes.
Travel Essentials for the Philippines
Gear I always bring for island hopping, city wandering, and filming on the go:
🎒 Lightweight backpacks & dry bags
📸 Cameras & drones
🤿 Snorkel gear
☀️ Sunscreen
🦟 Bug spray (trust me, you’ll thank yourself later)
👉 Shop My Travel Essentials for Exploring the Philippines
Health & Safety Tips 🛡️
The Philippines is breathtaking, but like any true adventure, it’s important to stay prepared. From island-hopping boats to jungle hikes, every experience brings unforgettable moments — and a few things you’ll want to plan for in advance:
🦟 Mosquitoes & Dengue: The tropics mean mosquitoes, and dengue fever is a real risk. Always pack bug spray and reapply often, especially at dusk.
🚰 Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water, even for brushing your teeth. Stick to bottled or filtered water to keep your trip worry-free.
🛡️ Travel Insurance: This is essential! From unexpected illness and lost luggage to sudden changes of plans, having coverage keeps the focus on your journey — not the stress. In the Philippines, accidents are unfortunately common: I’ve witnessed everything from motorbike accidents to cuts on coral while exploring the islands. I haven’t seen it all, and you never know what might happen — that’s why travel insurance is non-negotiable.
I personally recommend two trusted options:
World Nomads
Great for short-term and adventure coverage.
Safety Wing
Ideal for long-term travelers and digital nomads, you can start or cancel anytime on the road, claims are super easy to make on their website & then paid within 48hrs.
✨ Explore More of the Philippines
From the bustling streets of Manila to the serene beaches and islands beyond, the adventure doesn’t have to end here. Click on a city below to continue your journey and dive into more cinematic experiences, travel tips, and insider guides:
👉 Click on a city to start your journey
Siargao
Coron
El Nido
Puerto Princesa
✨ Ready to Explore Manila?
From historic streets to modern neighborhoods, vibrant markets to trendy cafés, Manila is a city full of contrasts and unforgettable experiences.
👉 Click on an episode below to dive deeper into my journey:
2-Day Manila Itinerary 🇵🇭
🗓️ Day 1 – First Impressions & Makati
🚶♀️ Walk Around Makati: Ayala Triangle, Salcedo Market, Greenfield Weekend Market
🛍️ Shopping Stops: Market! Market!, Robinsons Place Mall
☕ Cafés & Local Eats: Grab a snack, enjoy the city energy
🌇 Evening: Stroll around Makati’s modern streets and green spaces
🗓️ Day 2 – Binondo & Intramuros
🏛️ Binondo Highlights: Binondo Church, ancestral temples
🥤 Food Must-Try: Sugarcane juice at Vege Select, Lumpia, Eng Bee Tin pastries, dumplings at Chuan Kee
🚲 Intramuros Bamboo Bike Tour: Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, Plaza de Roma
🌿 Insider Tip: Explore on foot or by bike to soak in the historic charm
4-Day Manila Itinerary 🇵🇭
🗓️ Day 1 – First Impressions & Makati
🚶♀️ Walk Around Makati: Ayala Triangle, Salcedo Market, Greenfield Weekend Market
🛍️ Shopping Stops: Market! Market!, SM Mall of Asia, Robinsons Place Mall
☕ Cafés & Local Eats: Discover local snacks, coffee spots
🌇 Evening: Experience Makati’s modern streets, parks, and nightlife
🗓️ Day 2 – Binondo: The World’s Oldest Chinatown
🏛️ Historic Streets & Temples: Binondo Church and ancestral sites
🥤 Culinary Stops: Vege Select (sugarcane juice), Lumpia, Eng Bee Tin pastries, Chuan Kee dumplings
📸 Insider Tip: Walk side streets for hidden gems and local flavors
🗓️ Day 3 – Intramuros: Bamboo Bike Day Trip
🚲 Bamboo Bike Tour: Cobblestone streets, colonial plazas, peaceful gardens
🏰 Historic Landmarks: Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, Plaza de Roma
🌿 Local Vibes: Discover the rhythm of this living historic neighborhood
🗓️ Day 4 – Bonifacio Global City (BGC)
🎨 Street Art & Murals: Explore High Street and colorful public art
🏞️ Green Spaces: Parks like Track 30th and Terra 28th
☕ Modern Cafés & Dining: Enjoy brunch or coffee in stylish spots
🌙 Evening: Experience BGC’s vibrant nightlife and urban energy
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