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Among the many Chinatowns found across different countries, Binondo stands out as one of the most memorable. It has the distinction of being the oldest Chinatown in the world, having been established by the Spaniards over four centuries ago. Today, it is best known for its dozens of Filipino-Chinese restaurants and establishments that line up its streets, serving various Chinese cuisines and products for all tourists and locals to enjoy!

**What to expect** 

If you’re looking for a place to eat, you’ll never run out of options in Binondo! From crunchy lumpia to tasty hopia, Binondo offers the best and most authentic Chinese dishes you’ll find in the country. Some tourists and locals even visit Binondo to experience a whole-day food trip!

Of course, as the oldest Chinatown in the world, Binondo also contains many centuries-old locations for history buffs to appreciate. Entering the centuries-old Binondo Church will amaze you with its distinct architecture and ornate paintings, while strolling across Escolta Street will make you feel like you’re walking back in time! Those who want to find out more about the oldest Chinatown in the world can also drop by the Chinatown Museum, which features many galleries telling Binondo’s colorful history.

From its delicious meals to its historical landmarks, Binondo has a lot to offer. Don’t miss out on the unique Chinatown experience!

**Where to experience it**

Binondo is located in Manila City. If you’re coming from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, it will take you around an hour to get to Binondo. It is also only a few minutes away from other popular tourist attractions in Manila such as Intramuros and Rizal Park.

Binondo

One of the many reasons the Philippines has become a popular choice among tourists is its unparalleled biodiversity. From the Tubbataha Reef in Palawan to the Tarsier Sanctuary in Bohol, you’ll find many opportunities to appreciate nature wherever in the country you may go.

All these natural wonders are captured in the National Museum of Natural History, the fourth and newest building opened to the public by the National Museum of the Philippines. Boasting not only a unique educational display of the country’s natural beauty but also several feats of architecture, the National Museum of Natural History is a great way to learn more about what makes the Philippines a landmark of biodiversity.

**What to expect**
 
When you enter through the museum’s Corinthian columns, the first thing you’ll notice is the so-called “Tree of Life”, a towering structure at the center of the museum’s lobby, surrounded by large images of three of the Philippines’ most recognizable animals: the Philippine Eagle, the Philippine Tarsier, and the tamaraw. Its architect, Dominic Galicia, said that the piece symbolized “man’s wanting to understand nature and his place in it,” and there’s no better way to gain this understanding than to go through the National Museum of Natural History’s various galleries!

The museum spans six floors, many of which housing displays, dioramas, and images of zoological, botanical, and geological discoveries around the country. One of its main attractions is the skeleton of Lolong, which is said to be the largest crocodile in captivity recorded in the Philippines, that hangs above the museum’s lobby. One of its galleries also features a submarine replica where you can experience what it’s like to be surrounded by marine life!

Whether it’s expanding your knowledge on the country’s biodiversity or appreciating its modern architecture, the National Museum of Natural History is a must-see! 

**Where to experience it**

The National Museum of Natural History can be found within Rizal Park, which is located in the city of Manila. From the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, it will take you around 30 minutes to get to Intramuros via land. If you’re staying in Makati City, it will also take you around 30 minutes, while if you’re coming from Quezon City, that travel time increases to around an hour.

National Museum of Natural History

If you had to rank the most historically important locations in Metro Manila, Rizal Park would be near the top of that list. Formerly called Luneta Park, the 58-hectare area has been the site of many significant events throughout the country’s history, most notably the execution of the national hero that the park is named after. If you want to find out more about Jose Rizal and the country’s history, then Rizal Park is a must-see!

**What to expect** 

The most famous landmark of Rizal Park is the Rizal Monument, standing tall near Roxas Boulevard and facing Manila Bay. Unveiled in 1913, it features a bronze statue of Jose Rizal holding a book and surrounded by other figures reading and caring for their children. Every day, several officers from the Philippine Marine Corps guard the Rizal Monument, highlighting its significance.

While most tourists are only familiar with the monument, Rizal Park has several other pieces of history scattered throughout its 58 hectares of greenery. Many statues, sculptures, and artworks decorate the park, conveying not only the country’s history but also its rich culture. Only a few steps away from the Rizal Monument, for example, are statues depicting the national hero’s execution, located at the same spot where the actual execution took place over a century ago.

Various museums are also located within the park, most of which are run by the National Museum of the Philippines. Tourists who want to be surrounded by nature will also appreciate the many gardens around Rizal Park, all of which contain unique architecture and picturesque sites.

With its historical landmarks, various museums, and tranquil gardens, Rizal Park has something for every tourist!

**Where to experience it**

Rizal Park is located in the city of Manila. From the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, it will take you around 30 minutes to get to Intramuros via land. If you’re staying in Makati City, it will also take you around 30 minutes, while if you’re coming from Quezon City, that travel time increases to around an hour.

Rizal Park

Amid the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila is a city almost preserved in time. Surrounded by its signature stone walls, Intramuros stands out as a time capsule of Manila’s rich and varied history. Established as early as the 1570s at the dawn of the Spanish colonization period, Intramuros now serves as the perfect opportunity for tourists to travel back in time and find out more about the country’s colorful history!

**What to expect**

Many historic tours you can find in Manila are almost completely held within Intramuros, and for good reason—the Walled City has some of the oldest structures you’ll find in the entire country. Walking around Intramuros will make you feel like you’re walking in 16th century Manila, complete with the cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages!

One of its most famous attractions is the San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the San Agustin Church has played many roles during the various wars that plagued the Philippines in the past five centuries, most notably being the only building in Intramuros that was left intact after the World War II bombings. Today, its interior contains various historical and religious pieces, and it continues to open its doors to mass goers and tourists alike.

A few minutes away from San Agustin Church is Casa Manila, an ancestral house modeled after a rich Spaniard’s mansion from centuries ago. Beyond its eye-catching architecture, Casa Manila is a full-fledged historical museum, containing furniture and paintings that capture the essence of Spanish colonial lifestyle. 

In one of Intramuros’ corners lies the main gate of Fort Santiago, which has similarly played many significant roles in the history of the Philippines, ranging from a citadel to a prison. After admiring its stone facade, tourists can also find many historic objects and memorabilia preserved within its rooms, including items from the fort’s most famous prisoner, Jose Rizal.

These three attractions are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the historical sights you’ll see around Intramuros. From its culturally rich museums to its beautiful plazas, Intramuros is a one-of-a-kind portrait of Philippine history.

**Where to experience it**

Intramuros is located within the city of Manila. From the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, it will take you around 30 minutes to get to Intramuros via land. If you’re staying in Makati City, it will also take you around 30 minutes, while if you’re coming from Quezon City, that travel time increases to around an hour.

*As Metro Manila is under GCQ, Tourist sites, gated areas and museums (private and public) in Intramuros are still closed. Check this [**page**](https://www.facebook.com/OfficialIntramurosAdministration/) for more updates.
*

Intramuros

To the west of Metro Manila lies Manila City, the capital of the Philippines and a must-visit for history buffs, bargain hunters, and every tourist in between! As a bustling city home to over a million residents, Manila has become one of the busiest and most modernized locations in the country. Despite this, it also contains some of the most historically significant landmarks you’ll ever find in the whole country. Whether you’re looking for a centuries-old monument or the latest trendy restaurant, you’ll always have something to do in the lively Manila!

**What to expect when you're there:**

Tourists visiting Manila all take a historical journey, with many of the city’s most famous attractions being landmarks that document the country’s rich and varied history. Nowhere is this better exemplified than in Intramuros, the Walled City that stands out as a time capsule in the middle of Manila’s bustling metropolis. From the oldest stone church in the Philippines to museums preserving the Spanish colonization era, Intramuros gives you the opportunity to get a glimpse of 16th century Manila. 

For those who want to learn more about anything and everything Philippines, Manila is also home to various museums. Whether it’s fine arts or natural history, you’ll walk out of these museums with more knowledge than when you walked in!

Manila also has various districts that are havens for those looking to shop or try out various cuisines. Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, will satisfy your cravings for Chinese food that you didn’t even know you had, while the nearby Divisoria commercial center is every shoppers’ dream. 

End your days by heading to Manila Bay, as you wouldn’t want to miss its world-class sunset. Wherever you are in the two-kilometer Baywalk between Roxas Boulevard and Manila Bay, you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot where you can take that Instagram-worthy sunset shot!

Whether you want to travel back in time or find the best Chinese delicacies, Manila has a lot to offer!

**How to get there:**

Manila City is a 30-minute shuttle ride away from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. It also only takes a few minutes of travel time to get to Manila from the cities of Makati, Pasay, and Quezon City.


Manila City

![](https://www.datocms-assets.com/31284/1603856008-copy-of-makati-skylineeric-beltran.jpg)
*Credits to: Eric Beltran*

Dubbed as the “Financial Capital of the Philippines,” Makati is a highly-urbanized powerhouse located northeast of Metro Manila. Its proud Makatizens call this place home where the hustle and bustle brings the city to life. From the towering skyscrapers that house the corporate world to the bold architecture of museums and entertainment centers, work and play are in perfect harmony in Makati.

**What to expect when you're there:**

Makati is a must-visit for city-lovers, art connoisseurs, and savvy shoppers. 

Upon arriving at the city, visitors can immediately feel the buzz of the Makati Central Business District (CBD) which is home to the headquarters of major corporations, embassies, and local affairs units. The skyscrapers along Ayala Avenue are situated very close to each other so this area of Makati can get very busy during the rush hour (between 6 to 8AM and 5 to 8PM). Walking is the ideal way to get around since parking spaces are hard to come by on the weekdays, when offices are full of life. 

Despite the abundance of towering skyscrapers, Makati is truly an urban jungle with pockets of green spaces. Visitors can enjoy both a high-end shopping experience and a serene walk along an enclosed park all within the same vicinity!

![](https://www.datocms-assets.com/31284/1603856041-marcgogreenbelt9v5a3172.jpg)
*Credits to: Marc Go*

The Makati Skyline is a sight not to be missed! Plan ahead to catch the best view whether admiring this beauty during the day or night. Many rooftop bars and restaurants offer scenic landscape views of Makati.

Night owls can revel in the electric nightlife and diverse culinary delights that the neighborhood of Poblacion (also known as Old Town) offers. This area welcomes both the young and young-at-heart! Whether you’re looking to splurge on a fancy drink or wanting a relaxed outdoor ambience, Poblacion offers something for everyone.

The vast range of accommodation options and shopping centers in Makati delights both the budget-conscious individual and those seeking to splurge. Check out the old-style architecture and modern glamour of the different hotels along this area. 

Foodies unite at the weekend food markets in Salcedo and Legaspi Villages where their taste buds are treated to a mix of Asian, Western, and Middle Eastern cuisines.

**How to get there:**

Given its central location in Metro Manila, there are many ways to get to Makati. 

The city is accessible by either taxi/private ride sharing, bus, or train.
* For buses: You can choose to take a public bus that travels through Ayala Avenue or the Premium P2P (point-to-point) buses. Both options are convenient because of the many drop-off and pick-up terminals around Makati.

* For trains: This is the cheapest option to get to Makati which travels through EDSA (Epifanio de los Santos Avenue) and stops at the Ayala Station. However, it can get very crowded especially during the rush hour (before and after office hours).

* For taxis/cabs: There is an abundance of regular-metered taxis all over Metro Manila.

* For private ride-sharing apps/through carpooling: If you opt for a quick ride minus the long queues, try ride-sharing applications which have transportation options for both a regular car or a motorcycle. If you know a local or have friends heading a similar route, carpooling is also a good idea. (And bonus points for saving the environment too!)



Makati City

![](https://www.datocms-assets.com/31284/1603856941-copy-of-marchenrichgobgcskyline-high-res.jpg)
*Credits to: Marc Go*

Bonifacio Global City, dubbed as the “Home of Passionate Minds” radiates a sophisticated, contemporary city charm that coexists with walkable, green spaces and a vibrant, multicultural community. This modern, highly-urbanized business and commercial district located southeast of Manila goes by many names (BGC, Global City, or The Fort) but one thing’s for sure - its residents will always show you a good time! Once operated as a US Military Base, BGC is now home to the corporate headquarters of some of the world’s biggest companies. Whether treating yourself to the best-in-class entertainment, biking around the city, discovering savory dishes, or appreciating the colorful street art, you’ll be captivated by BGC’s truly dynamic community.

**What to expect when you’re there:**

Bonifacio Global City offers city-dwellers various activities that promote a sustainable lifestyle coupled with modern conveniences.

One notable example is BGC’s orderly, grid-style urban planning that makes it a highly-walkable and bike-friendly city. Those who travel to the city by car can find multiple parking buildings and open areas around BGC. By downloading the official BGC App, parking is made hassle-free and convenient since users can receive real-time traffic updates and find available parking spaces.

The outdoors reign supreme in BGC! Within the area of Bonifacio High Street, there are many establishments that offer al fresco dining and spacious walkways perfect for joggers and pet-lovers who want to roam the city on foot. Mall-goers can find the finest selection of retail merchandise in the retail promenade along 29th street which also features square blocks of landscaped parks.

![](https://www.datocms-assets.com/31284/1603856919-marcgobgcmg0863.jpg)
*Credits to: Marc Go*

As a highly urbanized business and commercial district, BGC accommodates a mix of office buildings, residential areas, and retail spaces. The PSE Tower which houses the Philippine Stock Exchange is located in Bonifacio High Street. Visitors and residents alike are treated to world-class hospitality with accommodations that cater to every budget. 

From working at the office and partying at the hottest clubs, BGC comes alive from day to night! Take a visit to Uptown Bonifacio where visitors are treated to a diverse array of entertainment and international cuisines along Uptown Parade. The nearby township community called Forbes Town Center is also worth a visit.

As a developed, contemporary residential and lifestyle district, BGC is complete with modern conveniences and then some. You can find some of the country’s best hospitals, major educational institutions and international schools, best-in-class hotels, budget accommodations, specially-curated museums, and entertainment centers all within BGC. 


**How to get there:**

* By car, BGC is less than an hour’s drive from the city of Manila. There are roadway links to C5 and EDSA that make driving to BGC very accessible.
* Alternatively, point-to-point buses and MRTs can also be taken to get to BGC.
* Within the city, there are several BGC bus shuttle stops to help you get around. 
* With an abundance of pedestrian-friendly zoning, biking and walking are the most recommended ways to easily navigate the best of BGC since many establishments are closely linked.


Bonifacio Global City

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Intro to Manila

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End Your Day in Manila with a Breathtaking Sunset

Travel Back in Time By Visiting These 3 Historic Locations!

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Manila City

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