What a better way to learn about Manilla than to visit its most interesting spots. You not only need the beach to have the best holiday but also places that have everything for all kind of guests. Among these, are the museums, parks and also viewpoints. Here, you get to learn about history, culture, fun places and also get to boost your Instagram likes by taking artistic photos. This article seeks to explore the 10 most beautiful Instagrammable spots in Manilla, featuring picturesque views, artistic decorations and also beautiful exhibitions. Wear your comfortable shoes, carry a few snacks and do not forget your phones as you visit these places. Read on to learn more about the top Instagrammable spots in Manila.
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1. Fort Santiago
Are you a fan of history? A visit to this place will take you through Manilla’s past and present. You can either go by yourself or sign up for a tour that will take you through Manilla’s historic Intramuros. Here, you will see the walled structures of Manilla which were ruined during the World War II. Today this place is a tourist site, open for picnics and open-air theatre. Learn more about this structure including the materials used to build it and also get to see where Dr. Jose Rizal spent his last days. This spot is also a unique place to take a picture. Get down here, learn about the history and take professional pictures for your social media platform.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
I love visiting Fort Santiago. I love how tranquil it is there; it makes me forget I'm in the heart of a bustling city. The lush gardens, fountains, and cobblestone pathways add a touch of elegance to the fort's layout making it a very Instagrammable attraction.
Be sure to have a bottle of water handy when exploring Fort Santiago—it's quite big!
Traveler's tips
If you are planning to go around the walled city of Intramuros, I suggest that you go here to Fort Santiago because it is not just an Instagrammable spot but also full of history. I've visited the place three times, and it is always a nice place to go. I was in my first year of college when I first visited. We arrived at around 2:00 PM and it was very hot because it's an open area. It would be better if you bring an umbrella for sun and rain protection, and also bring your water to stay hydrated.
I also visited Fort Santiago last December. The place still gives me the same vibe as when I visited for the first time - it's peaceful and full of stories. It's the best place to hang out with your friends and family because there are available chairs that you can sit on and food stores inside.
Please wear your best and most comfortable outfit so you can get good pictures. Also, the best time to go here is around 4:00 p.m.!
Visited this place?2. Paco Park and Cemetary
This is another interesting place to learn about the history of Manilla. The park is small and circular, perfect for weddings, photo shoots, and musical concerts. This park serves as an important landmark as it is the place Jose Rizal was buried before being enshrined at Luneta Park. It is also the resting ground for the martyred priests and victims of the Asiatic cholera pandemic. At the center of the park, you’ll find the Roman Catholic Chapel whose history is also interesting. This park is a national park, open every day for those interested in learning the history of Manilla.
Paco Park and Cemetary
Address: General Luna Street
Opening hours: Daily 8 am to 5 pm
Price: 10 PHP (0.19 USD)
Visited this place?3. Venice Grand Canal Mall
Venice Grand Canal Mall is a lovely place to come and enjoy the scenery of the canal and the city. While here, you will get to enjoy fast food from restaurants and also shopping. There are also cinemas showing at the Venice Mall. The main highlight is the gondola ride which is a short ride. You will really enjoy your time in this mall when you visit on weekdays as the place is really crowded on weekends and holidays.
Venice Grand Canal Mall
Address: Upper McKinley Rd, Taguig, 1630 Metro Manila, Philippines
Website: Venice Grand Canal Mall
Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 11.00 am - 11.00 pm
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Come and experience the beauty of Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig! It comes pretty close to the historic city of Venice in Italy, so you are free to go to this open-air establishment first before booking a flight. The ambiance of this place is unparalleled, especially if you're here with loved ones. You can go on a gondola ride as you take in the pastel-colored buildings that surround the water. You can head to any of the restaurants here to re-energize. I recommend going to Marugame Udon if you want some Japanese delicacies.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Its beautiful architecture sets it aside from other shopping malls in Metro Manila. The architecture reflects Venetian-style buildings, complete with arched bridges, colorful facades, and charming piazzas. It offers a unique shopping and dining experience, with a wide array of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment options lining the cobblestone walkways. We visited during November so their giant Christmas tree on the canal was an extra highlight.
I suggest dining in one of the waterfront restaurants as the picturesque view adds an extra layer of charm to your dining experience.
Traveler's tips
You don't need to go to Venetian Macao or Venice Italy, just to experience the Grand Canal. The Philippines has its own grand canal which can be seen in "The Venice Grand Canal Mall" in Taguig City. This is one of the most visited places in Metro Manila, especially during Christmas Season, because it has very beautiful decorations. I've been to the place twice, and it will always give you a Venice, Italy vibe, especially during the morning because the place is not that crowded. There are several things that you can do in this mall - you can ride the gondola boat, shop at your favorite stores, and choose the best restaurant to eat your lunch or dinner.
Make sure to wear your best outfit because every spot in this place is Instagrammable!
Visited this place?4. Manilla Baywalk
Source: NeedpixThis is a favorite sunset watching location for most city dwellers in Manilla. It is a 2 km (1.2 miles) stretch along Roxas Boulevard. People enjoy this place for its beautiful golden skies, calm waters and a lovely botanical arrangement that moves with the breeze. There are open-air restaurants and bars, live bands, and dance spots offered at the Bay Walk. There is also a large mall close by. Couples can take night cruises as they enjoy the moonlight with music in the background. For sure this place makes for the best location for your profile picture and also memorable moments.
Manilla Baywalk
Address: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines
Visited this place?Manila Tour Guide
Alvin Paulino Bolo
Hello. I am Alvin Bolo, a tour guide with a license from the Philippines' Department of Tourism. I organise tours for various sets of places in the country, namely one for Manila, another one for Northern (and Central) Luzon (the largest of the islands) and another one for Palawan and the nearby Calamian Islands. You can also have other details (lodging, transportation, dining, etc.) associated... Read more
Tours by Alvin paulino
5. BGC street art and wall murals
Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is a lifestyle district in Metro Manila, located southeast of the Manila Centre. Artists use the plain walls of the BGC as their canvases for painting. The incredible works of art on these walls add color and life to the city. TV memories, creative imaginations and also famous people are painted on these walls. These paintings that are varying in size are larger than real life’s version of provocative and inspired art from many artists from the Philippines and all over the world. These artwork are revealed during the One Festival. When you are in Manila, make sure to visit BGC and enjoy the murals on the walls. Check out some fine-fining restaurants in Bonifacio Global City as well.
Bonifacio Global City
Address: One Global Place, 26th Street corner 5th Ave,
Website: Bonifacio Global City
Visited this place?6. University of the Philippines Diliman
Not only do you need the beach and city streets to get the best spots for pictures but also educational institutions. The University of Philippines is among the institutions that allow you to frame your memories. Whether on an educational mission, a personal visit or as part of a tour, this destination should be at the top of your list. It has beautiful parks, amazing administration, and intriguing infrastructure. Come down to the University of Philippines to see for yourself and also take pictures.
University of the Philippines Diliman
Address: Quezon City 1101, Metro Manila
Tip from Trip101 local expert
The University of the Philippines Diliman — or UPD — is huge, to say the least. If you want to go to a building on the opposite side of the campus, you need to ride a jeepney to be more efficient. But UPD makes good use of its large spaces. When I went here, we visited the UP College of Fine Arts, Plaridel Hall, and, of course, the gorgeous Sunken Garden. But one of the best spots here is the lovely mural on the side of a building, which encapsulates the old world. You can also go to campus if you want to enjoy a jog or go biking!
Visited this place?7. Ayala Triangle Gardens
Ayala Triangle Gardens is a triangular public garden and courtyard in the center of the Makati Central Business District. It is characterized by a variety of trees including fire trees, kamuning, podo cerpus, and public art pieces from leading artists. It is a quiet place to relax, jog, meet up with friends and also spend time with families. Visit the garden and enjoy the tranquillity that comes with it.
Ayala Triangle Gardens
Address: Paseo De Roxas St Cor Makati Ave, Cor Ayala Ave, Makati, 1209 Metro Manila, Philippines
Website: Ayala Triangle Gardens
Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 6.00 am - 10.00 pm
Tip from Trip101 local expert
I have a furry housemate who's always keen to explore new places, and this is one of our favorite spots—the wide space, the soft green grass, and the nearby restaurants make it perfect for lazy Sunday mornings. And since the venue is known to be pet-friendly, your canine buddy is most likely to make new friends here as well.
Visited this place?8. Rizal Park
Source: www.getyourguide.co.ukA tour through Manilla city gets you through the Rizal Park also known as Luneta. This historic urban park is one of the major tourist attractions in Manilla. It is located adjacent to the walled city of Intramuros. This park is one of the largest leisure spots in Asia where it is mostly visited during the national holidays and on Sundays. There is a monument here that enshrines the remains of the national hero Jose Rizal who was executed. The park was therefore named after him. This park is a national property that hosts most national events like the Presidential inaugurations, the Metro Manila Film Festival, and the National Milo Marathon. Mark this park at the top of your itinerary and be sure to have a wonderful experience.
Visited this place?9. Binondo
Take a tour around Binondo with a tour guide or a map that will lead you to the most interesting places in the city. Binondo is an old city in Chinatown with an amazing history which you must get to know. Binondo features amazing cuisine, lovely architecture and association centers. If you feel like eating Chinese authentic cuisine, Binondo is the place for you. You will find several eateries and also get to learn a lot about the city’s history. While you are at it, do not forget to take pictures!
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Just recently my sister and I had to go to Divisoria to buy wedding supplies for our brother. That place has everything—and that is not an exaggeration. Aside from the bargains that had made us feel very proud of our shopping skills, my favorite part of our buying spree was walking over to nearby Binondo for lunch (and later on, dinner as well). Dimsum, stir-fried noodles, and glutinous rice pudding are just some of the mouthwatering fare you can look forward to at this Chinatown.
Traveler's tips
One of my favorite places to visit in Manila. This is my go-to place especially when I am craving Chinese food, because you can find different Chinese delicacies at affordable prices. For me, the best place time to go here is at night, because Ongpin Street looks so bright and you can take good pictures. If you want to eat and don't want to spend a lot of money, I suggest that you visit Chuan Kee Chinese Fast Food, one of the oldest fast foods in Chinatown. They serve the best foods at a low price, however, you need to be patient in queuing because people tend to go in here but I will tell you that your waiting time will be worth it. If you want to buy food souvenirs like Hopia, mooncakes, and egg tarts, there are several stores that you could visit located on the sidewalks.
Visited this place?10. Art in Island Museum
While most museums are strict with taking pictures, this one allows it. Island Museum is a 3D museum located north of Manila. It features over 50 works of art created by Korean master painters. These paintings give a beautiful illusion when viewed at an angle. The 3D art museum was opened to acknowledge Filipinos’ love of taking selfies and sharing them on social media. The art here is not complete without you in it. So, grab your ticket and cameras, and get to Island Museum for the time of your life.
Visited this place?Book Tours : Skip the Line: Art In Island Museum Admission Ticket
Enjoy Manila
The list above clearly shows Manilla has a lot to offer other than soap operas. Choose from the list above where you would love to go and make sure to upload your photos for us to see!
History
This article has been endorsed by Manila local expert Laarni Lanox and 1 other(s)Get Trip101 in your inbox
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In addition to her love for writing and adventurous spirit, Hannah is a dedicated learner, always striving to acquire new knowledge with each passing day.
