Manila, the Philippines' capital city, is frequently used as a jumping-off point to the country's incredible beaches, stunning islands, and one-of-a-kind natural wonders. As the country's capital, it is a bustling bayside metropolis brimming with modern attractions for people of all ages and interests. The cityscape of Manila is also perfectly blended with Spanish colonial heritage sites, such as the famous walled city of Intramuros and the iconic citadel of Fort San Pedro. There is so much to see and do in Manila that it can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors, but with a well-planned itinerary, there is so much to discover that you'll want to come back again and again.

There are many interesting places to visit near the airport, as well as Manila tourist spots for day trips. So, whether you're just passing through or have a few days to kill, the list we've compiled below has something for everyone.

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1. Rizal Park

Rizal Park should be one of your first stops in Manila. This peaceful and manicured outdoor garden in the city's heart is also known as Luneta Park. The park is a popular social gathering spot in Manila, especially for its open-air concerts and chess plaza.

The park's paved pathways lead you through a lush landscape of blooming flowers, ponds, and over 40 points of interest ranging from statues to historical dedications. The century-old Rizal Monument, which houses the remains of one of the Philippines' most celebrated heroes, Dr. Jose Rizal, is noteworthy. Make a point of walking through the park to learn about the local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the Narra tree, the Philippines' national tree, and the small lake with an artistically raised archipelago structure in the middle.

2. Fort Santiago

This is one of the oldest Hispanic stone castles in the country. Fort Santiago was designated a national historical monument in 1951 and has since become a popular tourist destination. You can visit this attraction by joining a sightseeing and walking tour.

This is the Archdiocese of Manila's religious center. During the Spanish colonial period, it was the residence of the Spanish Archbishop of Manila, who had jurisdiction over the entire archipelago. You can visit this tourist attraction at any time of the day, so a bambike night experience can also be enjoyable. The Spanish coat of arms is displayed beneath a relief of the Spanish patron saint Santiago Matamoros on the monumental main gate. The fort is also a good place to connect with the Philippine independence movement. During the Philippine Revolution of 1896-1898, national hero José Rizal was imprisoned here before his execution. A shrine in his honor is a replica of his ancestral home, and you can see where he was imprisoned.

3. National Museum of Fine Arts

This museum, located on the east side of Rizal Park, houses paintings and sculptures by the most prominent Filipino artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. Among them are Juan Luna, Fernando Zóbel, and Félix Hidalgo, who represented a surge of Filipino art during the country's struggle for independence from Spain. That is the setting for the museum's centerpiece, Juan Luna's Spoliarium. This 1884 painting won a gold medal at Madrid's Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes, and its symbolism, depicting dead gladiators being dragged away from the circus, was not lost on José Rizal. Whether you're a history or art buff, you'll enjoy the many national treasures on display at the four-part National Museum Complex. Spoliarium, the largest and most famous painting in the Philippines, is housed at the Museum of Fine Arts by renowned Filipino painter Juan Luna.

Read Next: A Complete Guide On Where To Stay In Manila

4. Ocean Park

The Manila Ocean Park is one of the most beautiful places in Manila and one of the best things to do for families visiting Manila. Get up close and personal with marine life at the Sharks and Rays Encounter, the Trails to Antarctica exhibit, or the fish spa, which features fish cleaning your feet in a small pool of water. Depending on how many encounters you try, the park can easily last several hours. In addition to the cutting-edge aquatic facility, there are exhibits of birds and other animals.

Feeding penguins and learning to swim with a mermaid tail are two of their most interesting attractions. My personal favorite, however, has to be the fish spa. Small fish nibble at the dead skin on your feet during the treatment — doesn't that sound intriguing? There are 277 species native to Southeast Asia and 3,000 cubic meters of ocean water divided into seven sections.

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5. Manila Cathedral

Founded in 1571, Manila Cathedral has been destroyed by fire, earthquakes, and war, and the imposing monument on Plaza de Roma today is the eighth reconstruction. That doesn't detract from the sight, and unlike San Agustin, you can enter even if a wedding is taking place.

The cathedral was restored a few years ago, and Pope Francis celebrated a mass there shortly after it reopened in 2015. The high vaults in the nave, the reflective marble floor, and the stained glass windows designed by 20th-century Filipino artist Galo Ocampo are all worth a look. This is the Archdiocese of Manila's religious center. During the Spanish colonial period, it was the residence of the Spanish Archbishop of Manila, who had jurisdiction over the entire archipelago. You can visit this tourist attraction at any time of the day, so a bambike night experience can also be enjoyable.

6. San Agustin Church

The San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a national treasure and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. This Catholic church has a unique history, which is reflected in the architectural details. Close inspection reveals Chinese and Spanish influences in the design. After battles and natural disasters, the church has been rebuilt several times.

Take note of the carvings on the large wooden doors that lead to the chapel. If you are interested in history or architecture, it is worthwhile to hire a local guide who can take you on a walking tour of the area and describe intricate details of the church that you may have missed on your own. The church was built in the opulent Baroque style and is worth seeing for its magnificent interior, which features trompe l'oeil paintings on the barrel vault and pilasters that mimic pediments, reliefs, rosettes, laurels, and other intricate mouldings.

7. Ayala Museum

In the large, air-conditioned former stock exchange building in Makati, there is a museum dedicated to Philippine art, ethnology, and archaeology. Explore Philippine culture, art, and history at the Ayala Museum, one of the best places to visit in Manila. The museum's four floors feature dioramas depicting history, a captivating textile collection, and graceful pieces of Pre-Hispanic gold jewelry.

The rotating arts are one of the museum's highlights, displaying the Luna and Amorsolo, and it is recommended that visitors visit the museum with guides to ensure an insightful experience. There are six main permanent exhibitions, which deal with traditional Filipino maritime vessels, embroidered silk worn by the Philippines' 19th-century elite, porcelain as a legacy of a thousand years of trade with China, and works of art by artists such as Fernando Zóbel and Juan Luna from the 19th and 20th centuries.

One incredible gallery is filled with gold items made by Filipino cultures prior to colonization, while the Diorama Experience contains 60 chronologically ordered models of the country's history.

8. Robinsons Place Mall

Robinsons Place, one best places to visit in Manila, has seven stories of the most premium and luxury brands of apparel, cosmetics, merchandise, and more. With a plethora of entertainment options, as well as numerous retail stores and gaming zones, this location is ideal for a family day outing. After you've exhausted your shopping options, you can choose from a variety of meals at the dining establishments.

While a mall may not be at the top of your list for discovering Manila's culture, Robinsons Place Mall has a surprising number of unique stores selling local items. While many locals shop here, it is also a popular destination for tourists.

Keep an eye out for Philippine-specific clothing, cosmetics, bags, and food. The mall is large, so allow time to walk through it and explore the stores. The modern structure of the mall stands in stark contrast to the rustic and historic landmarks that surround it.

The Bottom Line

Manila is famous for having the world's oldest Chinatown, as well as being a commercial destination with some of the most important historical monuments. It is also known as 'The Pearl of the Orient,' among other nicknames. Intramuros, or the walled city, is another popular destination where you can see famous old-world landmarks.

The best time to visit Manila is between the months of January and April. You can enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing tours during this time of year because the temperature ranges from 27 to 22 degrees. Manila is only one of many wonderful places to visit in the Philippines. There are numerous additional side trips you can add to your itinerary, ranging from beautiful beaches to other islands in the archipelago. Agoda.com is your one-stop shop to book your flights, hotels, or holiday homes when traveling to Manila.