Manila City Tour Primer
Planning a tour around Manila? Here are some important places to include whether it is a historical, religious, or tour of any nature. Depending on the time you spend at each point of interest, this entire tour itinerary could take, at least, 1 day.
The Coconut Palace, is where the current Vice-President of the country holds office. It is located in the Bay City, a 660-hectare reclaimed land that is home to Asia's biggest shopping mall, the Mall of Asia. The Coconut Palace is one of the pet projects of former First Lady Imelda Marcos and was built to showcase the versatility of the coconut tree. Some of the spectacular items in the palace are a huge chandelier and dining table wholly crafted from coconut trunk and shells.
From the Bay City, you can proceed to Luneta Park, otherwise called Rizal Park. It is one of the landmarks of Manila and many major historical events were held here when it was then called Bagumbayan. Among them the execution of the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. His monument is a symbol of freedom and nationalism.
From Rizal Park, you can go northward to the walled city or "Intramuros". It is the seat of the Spanish government during the Spanish era. All political, social, religious and educational activities were held inside the Intramuros grounds. To this day, many churches, government buildings, universities and recreational areas remain within the walls of Intramuros. Among them San Agustin Church which is the oldest stone church in the Philippines.
Further north is Fort Santiago, the location of Dr. Jose Rizal's incarceration for allegedly inciting rebellion against Spain. It was constructed to be the defense fortress of the city. Inside are ruins of the American and Spanish barracks and Rizal Shrine. Entry to the Fort Santiago is P75 for adults and P50 for children.
Rizal as he leaves for Bagumbayan for his execution. The night before he was going to be executed, he composed his last poem for the Filipinos entitled "My Last Farewell". He rolled and inserted the poem inside the gas lamp which he gave to his sister.
Visualize the owner of these footsteps as he slowly walks to Bagumbayan to face the firing squad that will execute him. Put yourself in his footsteps and imagine what he was thinking. It will evoke feelings of nationalism and admiration to this small but big guy.
From the Falsabraga de Santa Barbara, which is located in the northernmost part of Fort Santiago, You can see a portion of Pasig River which is now relatively cleaner. From that vantage point also, the skyscrapers from Sta. Cruz can be seen, signs of development and progress in that area of Manila.
From Fort Santiago, go to Binondo where you can see the oldest Chinatown. Stop by Binondo Church which is almost in front of the Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz. While in Chinatown, fill your seams up with the great food finds in the many small and big restos in Chinatown. I suggest that you get your lunch here and if you would like a really, really big and affordable course, my special favorite is the President. The staff are courteous and the food is delicious.
Another place to include, if you are a nature lover, is the Manila Ocean Park. It is literally teeming with fish and other aquatic creatures. And now, another attraction has been added. Humboldt Penguins were imported and they are attracting guests, both young and old. So come and see the great Penguin Quest in the newly opened Trails to Antarctica.
There are other places such as the National Museum and activities like taking the Manila Bay cruise on board the Metrostar Ferry that can be included in this itinerary. There are two options to choose from: A. Manila Bay Sunset Cruise which costs P500 with food included at 5 pm or the evening cruise during Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 6:30 pm. A bonus to see is the fireworks of Mall of Asia.
From the Bay City, you can proceed to Luneta Park, otherwise called Rizal Park. It is one of the landmarks of Manila and many major historical events were held here when it was then called Bagumbayan. Among them the execution of the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. His monument is a symbol of freedom and nationalism.
Fort Santiago Gate
Further north is Fort Santiago, the location of Dr. Jose Rizal's incarceration for allegedly inciting rebellion against Spain. It was constructed to be the defense fortress of the city. Inside are ruins of the American and Spanish barracks and Rizal Shrine. Entry to the Fort Santiago is P75 for adults and P50 for children.
Rizal as he leaves for Bagumbayan for his execution. The night before he was going to be executed, he composed his last poem for the Filipinos entitled "My Last Farewell". He rolled and inserted the poem inside the gas lamp which he gave to his sister.
Visualize the owner of these footsteps as he slowly walks to Bagumbayan to face the firing squad that will execute him. Put yourself in his footsteps and imagine what he was thinking. It will evoke feelings of nationalism and admiration to this small but big guy.
From the Falsabraga de Santa Barbara, which is located in the northernmost part of Fort Santiago, You can see a portion of Pasig River which is now relatively cleaner. From that vantage point also, the skyscrapers from Sta. Cruz can be seen, signs of development and progress in that area of Manila.
From Fort Santiago, go to Binondo where you can see the oldest Chinatown. Stop by Binondo Church which is almost in front of the Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz. While in Chinatown, fill your seams up with the great food finds in the many small and big restos in Chinatown. I suggest that you get your lunch here and if you would like a really, really big and affordable course, my special favorite is the President. The staff are courteous and the food is delicious.
There are other places such as the National Museum and activities like taking the Manila Bay cruise on board the Metrostar Ferry that can be included in this itinerary. There are two options to choose from: A. Manila Bay Sunset Cruise which costs P500 with food included at 5 pm or the evening cruise during Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 6:30 pm. A bonus to see is the fireworks of Mall of Asia.
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