Manila is filled with so many beautiful attractions and picturesque structures. Manila is the capital of the tropical country of the Philippines. The Philippines is composed of 7,107 islands that is why it is considered as an archipelago. While there are beautiful and awesome places that can be found from all over the Philippines, Manila is still the best place to visit for you to at least have a glimpse of the history and the locals around this wonderful country.
Here are the 7 historical tourist spots in Manila that you can visit:
- Fort Santiago
Within the grounds of Metro Manila lies a beautiful and historic citadel that is called Fort Santiago. According to Wikipedia, Fort Santiago was first built by the Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi for the newly established city of Manila in the Philippines. The defence fortress is part of the structures of the walled city of Manila referred to as Intramuros.
Fort Santiago is located near the famous Rizal Shrine. Inside the citadel are memorabilia’s of the Philippine heroes including Jose Rizal’s famous novel ‘Noli Me Tangere’. There is so much more to learn inside Fort Santiago and this place should be part of your bucket list.
Metered taxis, jeepneys, public buses and even kalesa can be used as a mode of transportation to get here.
2. Manila Bay
The most beautiful sunset in the Philippines can be found in Manila Bay. Manila Bay is a natural and wonderful harbour that serves as the main port in Manila, Philippines. The Battle of Manila Bay happened here in 1898 so this is really a historical place that you should visit. This is just a few kilometres away from Fort Santiago.
3. Quiapo Church
Quiapo Church is famous for its tradition called Traslacion, an annual celebration of bringing out the Black Nazarene to a parade for its devotees. Every year, millions and millions of people are coming to witness the historical event. If you are coming to Manila in January, you better participate in this wonderful event!
You can get here by riding a metered taxi or public bus/jeepneys.
4. Luneta Park
Luneta Park is probably the most famous park in Manila, Philippines. Foreigners love to flock here especially during the afternoon as the mood and vibe will give you a feeling like you are one of the locals in Metro Manila. Luneta Park is also popular for its monument that presents the Philippine national hero named Dr Jose Rizal.
This huge park is located along Roxas Boulevard, Manila and can be reached by riding metered taxis, kalesas, and metro rail train.
5. Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park is not like any other ocean parks in the world. What sets apart this oceanarium from the others is the fact that it is connected to a hotel called H2o so guests will be treated and pampered in the hotel if they want to before going to the actual ocean park.
Manila Ocean Park is a first-class oceanarium so you will really enjoy and experience what it’s like to be under the sea. This is located on the opposite side of Luneta Park
6. National Museum of The Philippines
National Museum of The Philippines is one of the oldest structures in Manila. Inside this enormous building lies more than a hundred paintings and sculptures made by some of the best artists not just from the Philippines but also from all over the world.
The good news about this museum is that it doesn’t accept payment for entrance anymore. Admission is FREE for all so better add this place to your itinerary
7. Cultural Center of The Philippines
Cultural Center of the Philippines is the top place where all kinds of art that are related to Philippine history are being shown. Movies, theatre shows, exhibits and the like can be seen inside this gigantic centre. Every year there are different festivals that will surely please you so this should also be part of your itinerary.
The city of Manila in the Philippines is really rich in culture and traditions and the best way to enjoy them is by visiting the places mentioned above. While those are considered the top spots in the metro, there are still unspoiled places that you can explore if you plan to have a long vacation in the beautiful sunny Manila.
Mark Aldrin Hipolito is a daytime writer for Holiday Inn Parramatta, one of Australia’s modern and luxurious hotels in the suburban district. Mark Aldrin gives hotel tips and hacks to help people make the most out of their vacation. He also gives out tips on how to enjoy the best spots in every country
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