Manila

Manila, the Philippines

The capital of the Philippines is also the nation's largest port city and economic, cultural and transportation center. Imbued with exotic tropical flavor, it's one of the most appealing tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Time-honored oriental traditions continue, with unmistakable Spanish and American influences.

See and Do

• Rizal Park

  The urban park in honor of José Rizal, a national hero of the Philippines, is a popular leisure location and frequented on Sundays and national holidays. Of the points of interest in the park are the bronze-and-granite Rizal monument which ranks among the famous sculptural landmarks in the country and a relief map of the Philippines' archipelago of 7107 tropical islands.

• Manila Cathedral

  The present incarnation of the 16th-century cathedral is the result of six renovations. Behind an imposing façade are intricate religious carvings and embellishments adorning the holy site's walls and ceiling.

• Intramuros

  In Spanish, it means “within the walls”. The 1-square-kilometer walled section is Manila's historical core. It was built by the Spanish in 1571 when the Philippines was under the Spanish Empire's colonial rule. The walls have seven gates.

• Santiago Fort

  Construction of the citadel began in 1571 and was completed only some 150 years later. The defense fortress was part of the walled city “Intramuros”. Woodcarvings on its main gate depict stories of Santiago, the patron saint of Spain. Now, the site has become a public park and a tourist attraction.

• San Agustin Church

  The oldest stone church of the Philippines is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site. Intricate reliefs carved on stones and beautiful paintings adorning its ceiling and walls impress.

  
  
  
• Manila Bay

  The natural harbor southwest of the island of Luzon serves the Port of Manila and ranks among the world's biggest. It's the best spot to catch the glorious moments of sunrise and sunset.