Read All About Things to Do in Manila! 

Mar 29, 2025

Last Updated on: Nov 24, 2025

Travel Guides

With the beautiful Spanish culture spread across Manila, there are a lot of places to visit. There are a lot of things to do in Manila which I will highlight in this blog so that you can plan your trip accordingly.  

Starting from contemporary museums to art scene, the place is the home of the oldest Chinatown across the world. Let me share with you several elements that will help you explore the place, both the old and the new.  

I think Manila is one of the best places to visit in February especially because the weather is dry and pleasant. You can easily explore the city during this time.  

Read All About Things to Do in Manila!  

Read All About Things to Do in Manila!

If you are wondering about the things to do in Manila, let me share with you some of the coolest places to visit. The nightlife is good here, but I am more of a museum and art scene girlie. It is the home of several parks and museums that will express history to you.  

Several elements will make you feel that you have come to a previous era. Additionally, several places offer entertainment and fun to people of all ages.   

Rizal Park  

Rizal Park

A beautiful park, open from Monday to Sunday. It is mostly open from 5 am to 10 am and 11 am to 8 pm. When you visit the park, entry is completely free. There are several gardens, laws, and other outdoor events organized across the 57-hectare park.  

There is also a statue of hero Jose Rizal, commemorating him, and the name of the park is given. The hero has contributed to the wellbeing of the city hence, you get to see a lot of him and his commemoration in and around the city and places to visit.  

There are a lot of places where you can go shopping once you explore the city. Henceforth, if you are traveling alone, carry the best travel credit card you possess.  

Fort Santiago  

Fort Santiago  

It is a landmark in Manila which is open from Monday to Sunday, from 8 am to 11 pm. The place is a defensive fortress which has a museum exhibiting many arts and sculptures. The national hero, Jose Rizal is commemorated through the exhibits of the museum.  

In 1571, the Spanish governor and navigator, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi built the castle or the citadel. The city of Manila was newly established by then and is currently one of the oldest fortifications.  

National Museum of Fine Arts  

National Musuem of Fine Arts

A massive museum, the place is a collection of fine art, botany, natural history and archaeology related to Filipino culture. The museum is open from Sunday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm.  

As the home of 29 galleries and exhibitions in the hallway, it comprises national artists and Filipo masters of the 19th century.  

San Agustin Church  

San Agustin Church

A beautiful place to visit, this historic place was constructed in the 16th century. The San Agustin Church is open from Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm. The ceilings are vaulted while the church exhibits detailed frescoes.  

It is a Roman Catholic church which is located in the intricate walled city of Intramuros in Manila. The church functions under the auspices of the Order of Saint Augustine. Furthermore, when you visit you get to see Baroque art in the church.  

Manila Ocean Park  

Manila Ocean Park  

More of an aquarium if you ask me, the Manila Ocean Park is open from Sunday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. The theme park is owned by China Oceanis Philippines Inc. and it has evolved into the perfect holiday destination for tourists.  

It is an aquatic theme park which you will have both fun and knowledge when you check it out. Additionally, it is a perfect place for you, if you are traveling with your kids. It is one of the best places to travel with kids.  

It is also an educational facility that features live shows, an oceanarium, and hands-on activities. There are all-star Bird shows, Sea lion shows and many more giving you the perfect experience and offering you the thrill of the ocean.  

Intramuros  

Intramuros

The meaning of the term, Intramuros, is the “Walled City” which is the oldest district in Manila. It looks like a fortified city which was one of the most important places for Spanish governor during earlier times of colonial times.  

If you are a lover of history, this is the place for you. The culture of the place has been heavily influenced by the colonial rule and the impact it has on ordinary people.   

Paco Park  

An urban park which offers you serenity when you visit it between 6 am to 5 pm from Monday to Sunday. The park has been developed on a cemetery site which is walled of course. There are shaded paths for people to walk along with areas dedicated for gardens.  

The cemetery is under the maintenance of municipality, and it was built by the Dominicans. During the Spanish colonial period, it was built and filled within it are interred remains of city figures.  

Ayala Museum  

Another amazing museum that you must visit if you are going on a trip to Manila is Ayala Museum. It is open from Sunday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. The museum has a modern touch exhibiting Filipino archeological exhibits.  

Starting from history to modern and cultural artifacts and exhibits are available here. There is also a research library that is quite important for you if you are writing a research paper on the history of Spanish colonial period.  

The place is run by the Ayala Foundation privately. It houses several ethnographic, archaeological and cultural exhibits and art. You will be fascinated to know that the place exhibits the Surigao treasure of the indigenous tribe?  

Arroceros Forest Park  

Another urban park that you must visit is Arroceros Forest Park as things to do in Manila. There are a wide variety of plants and trees in the park along with a riverside walkway and a fishpond! A perfect combination of nature and modern practices will enhance your overall experience.  

The park is open for you to visit from Sunday to Monday from 8 am to 5 pm. The lush green forest is filled with greenery. Did you know this place is also known as “Last Lung of Manila”? Spread across 2.2 hectares, the park is a home of many flora and fauna species.  

Casa Manila  

Casa Manila

The Casa Manila is a house that now serves as a museum which is open from Sunday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm. The house was built in the 1850s and is not restored to exhibit art, architecture, and colonial furniture of the Spanish colonial rule.  

It is often called the living museum which features the way a well to do affluent Filipino family will live. The lifestyle of this family is depicted through the arrangements of furniture, art and architecture.  

The colonization had severely impacted Manila and this is how we can see when we enter the museum. It is a must-do list of things to do in Manila.  

Wrapping Up!  

In conclusion, now that you have gone through the things to do in Manila, I am sure you are already planning on what to do. When you visit the place, I am sure you will experience the ancient practices and instances of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines.  

Comment below on which place is your favorite to visit when you to Manila. You also need to share with us if you think we have missed something on the things to-do list. 

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READ MORE Copenhagen

Discover The Charm Of Copenhagen Hotels

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 22, 2024

Copenhagen, a city where history meets modernity, offers a hotel for every traveler. From luxurious havens to cozy boutiques, these accommodations are more than just a place to stay; they're an integral part of your Danish adventure. Explore more about Copenhagen hotels. Immerse yourself in the heart of Copenhagen's culture, design, and hospitality, a city celebrated for its seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you find yourself captivated by the historic elegance of the city center, with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings, or the trendy vibes of Vesterbro, known for its bustling cafes, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife, Copenhagen's hotels cater to every taste and promise experiences as rich and diverse as the city itself. In the city center, luxury hotels stand majestically, offering guests a taste of royal treatment amidst architectural grandeur, while boutique accommodations provide a more intimate experience, each with a unique story that connects you to the Danish capital's past and present. Venture into Vesterbro, and you'll find modern, design-forward hotels that echo the artistic and creative spirit of the neighborhood, offering not just a place to stay but a place to be inspired. But Copenhagen's hotel scene extends beyond just these areas. From the peaceful, green expanses of Frederiksberg to the cutting-edge cool of Nørrebro, each district offers its own flavor of hospitality. No matter where you choose to lay your head, you'll find that Copenhagen’s hotels are more than just a place to sleep—they are gateways to the city's heart, offering personalized experiences that bring you closer to the local culture, cuisine, and community. 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Your Gateway to Copenhagen Our expanded guide to Copenhagen's hotels transcends the conventional, offering a window into the soul of a city where every stay is designed to be an experience. These hotels are not just places to rest but are integral to your journey through Copenhagen, offering paths to culinary excellence, design marvels, wellness retreats, sustainable explorations, and cultural engagements. As you choose your stay in Copenhagen, remember that it's more than selecting a hotel—it's about curating your experience of this extraordinary city. Each hotel, with its unique offerings, serves as a gateway to discovering the many facets of Copenhagen, promising not just memories but stories to carry home. Whether you're drawn by the allure of luxury, the charm of sustainability, the warmth of community, or the depth of cultural engagement, Copenhagen's hotels are ready to welcome you into the heart of Danish life. 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READ MORE things to do in el paso

Best 9 Things To Do In El Paso!

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 17, 2024

Visiting El Paso? Curious about the things to do in El Paso? El Paso, located in the foothills of the stunning Franklin Mountains, is a vibrant and diverse community with a wide range of attractions and year-round fun. El Paso's attractions include a historic theater, concert venues, Spanish Colonial missions, museums, and beautiful state parks. Things To Do In El Paso If you enjoy being outside and want to visit one of Texas' most interesting cities, you should visit El Paso. Continue reading to get a sense of what Sun City has to offer. Also, click here to order a free travel guide to help you plan your next vacation. Here are some of the best things to do in El Paso: El Paso Mission Trail Explore El Paso’s early history by visiting the El Paso Mission Trail, which includes two 17th-century missions and a chapel built in the late 1800s. The oldest, which is the Ysleta Mission, was built in 1682. It is Texas’ oldest functioning parish. El Paso’s magic charm will sway you into the blue sky of romanticism and inspire you to move to Texas. Admire the white adobe-walled structures along the trail, then visit museums such as the Tigua Indian Cultural Center and the Los Portales Museum and Information Center. The El Paso Mission Trail, in addition to its attractions, hosts cultural festivals throughout the year. Ascarate Park Escape to nature at the 400-acre Ascarate Park, El Paso County's largest recreational area. Play a round of golf on the 18-hole, par-71 Ascarate Golf Course, explore the 48-acre lake by canoe or pedal boat, or enjoy some of the best fishing in the Southwest. In addition to baseball and soccer fields, the park has basketball, handball, sand volleyball, and tennis courts. Franklin Mountains Are you looking for adventurous things to do in El Paso? Here is one exciting option. 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Franklin Mountains State Park has some of the best trails for when the weather is right for outdoor activities. Enjoy the local arts scene at the Plaza Theatre or the El Paso Museum of Art to cap off your trip. If you want to know all the cool things to do in El Paso, we hope this article helps. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Don’t Believe Them!! This Is Actually The Best Time To Visit Barbados! Things To Do In Maryland – Free Places To Visit In Maryland Planning A Vacation To Bali? Read This Blog!

READ MORE How to Choose the Perfect Yacht for Your Charter

How to Choose the Perfect Yacht for Your Charter

BY  Sibashree Jan 16, 2025

Renting a perfect yacht for your charter is a thrilling opportunity to enjoy luxury, freedom, and adventure. Travel on the surface of the blue ocean is unlike anything you want to experience during the holidays. The different amenities available on the board give you an experience unlike anything else. You can charter an airplane for a fun and joyful ride. But there’s something else when it’s a yacht.  However, selecting the ideal yacht can seem overwhelming, with so many options available.  Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time renter, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect yacht for your trip.  1. Define Your Vacation Style Think about the type of experience you want. Are you looking for a romantic escape, a family-friendly adventure, or a lively party with friends? Your vacation style will guide you in selecting the right type of yacht.  Sailing Yachts: Ideal for those who love the authentic experience of navigating with sails. Motor Yachts: Perfect for luxury, speed, and comfort. Catamarans: Spacious and stable, great for families or groups. Gulets: Traditional wooden vessels, perfect for laid-back cruising with a touch of charm. At 12 Knots Yacht Rentals, you’ll find a variety of yachts tailored to your preferences. Choosing the best yacht for your vacation depends on your cruising style and how you want to sail. The type of luxury experience you want depends on your desire and the experience you are looking for. You’ll choose the perfect yacht for your charter depending on that. So, first, set your expectations and the above parameters should help you identify what you are looking for in the yacht.  2. Consider Your Group Size How many people will join you? Yachts come in different sizes, from intimate vessels for two to spacious yachts that can accommodate large groups. Ensure there’s enough room for everyone to sleep, dine, and relax comfortably. There are different sizes of yachts, and each size has a capacity to accommodate a specific number of people.  Get a small yacht, and you can have 4 to 12 people onboard. Now, if you want a grand and luxury wedding on a yacht, you’ll need from 100 to 300 people. That’s when you need a large yacht. Also the need for safety guides and features also change with the number of people you want to have onboard for the charter.  3. Choose the Right Destination The destination often influences the type of yacht you should choose. For example: In the Caribbean, a catamaran might be ideal for shallow waters and island hopping. For the Mediterranean, a motor yacht provides the speed and style needed to explore glamorous coastal towns. A luxury yacht in the Maldives ensures you travel comfortably across atolls. So, choosing the right destination for a yacht charter is also an integral part of finding what works for you. Think of the location you want to visit on your yacht and choose accordingly.  Visit 12 Knots to explore available yachts by destination.  4. Decide on Crew vs. Bareboat Crewed Yachts: Perfect for a hands-off, luxurious experience. The crew handles everything from navigation to meals, leaving you free to relax. Bareboat Charters: Great for experienced sailors who want full control of the yacht. You’ll need the appropriate certifications to rent these. If you want the experience of charting a yacht, it’s great to go for a bareboat charter. If you are a skilled sailor and have significant experience handling a yacht in the ocean, nothing is stopping you from getting a bareboat charter. You must have the necessary certifications and licenses for charting bareboat yachts. So, keep your personal safety and legal procedures in mind when deciding between a crew or a bareboat charter.  5. Set a Budget Yacht rentals often have significant differences in pricing depending on the size, type, and location. Keep in mind additional costs, such as fuel, docking fees, and provisioning. Many charters offer transparent pricing, making it easier to stick to your budget.  But, typically, in the budgeting part, the key areas of consideration come down to the charting fees and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance).  The advance provisioning allowance for the additional expenses such as drinks, food, delivery, re-delivery fees, and the average cost for smaller yachts.  Depending on your requirement for a luxury yacht charter, you’ll have to spend a specific amount. A small yacht chartering will cost you $10,000 per week. On the other hand, a large sized luxury yacht will cost $150,000 per week. So, set your budget depending on whatever type of experience you are looking for.  6. Check the Amenities Think about the facilities you’ll need: Spacious cabins and bathrooms Air conditioning Onboard kitchen or chef Wi-Fi and entertainment systems Equipment for water sports like snorkeling, paddle boarding, or jet skiing Explore yachts on 12 Knots to compare amenities and find your ideal match. 7. Understand the Season Different destinations have peak seasons. For example, the Mediterranean is best in summer, while the Caribbean shines in winter. Booking in advance ensures you get the yacht you want at the best price. 8. Read Reviews and Consult Experts Look for reviews from past renters and seek advice from yacht rental professionals. At 12 Knots, their experienced team is ready to help you make the best choice for your trip. Several listing websites online allow you to comparent types of yachts and luxury riding experiences.  You can compare prices, features amenities on those websites before making a decision. In addition, different clients also leave their own reviews and testimonials about specific rentals. You can check those before making a decision.  Conclusion  Renting a yacht is a fantastic way to elevate your vacation, but the key to an unforgettable experience is choosing the right yacht. You can ensure a seamless and enjoyable trip by considering your vacation style, destination, group size, and budget. You can take the advice we have given in this article to make your selection a worthwhile one. On the other hand, if you are a travel enthusiast, read other articles we have on our website.  Ready to start planning? Explore the best yachts for your dream destination at 12 Knots Yacht Rentals and embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.