33 Things To Do In Metro Manila For An Unforgettable Trip In The Philippines

Metro Manila attractions

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Metro Manila is the Philippines’ metropolitan area with 1 municipality and 16 cities, including the capital city of Manila. But while it’s only a small speck on our country’s map, it has so much to offer, being a melting pot of cultures.

So if you don’t have time to visit the rest of the country, here are things to do in Metro Manila that’ll ensure an unforgettable vacation.

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– Attractions –

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1. Time-travel at the walled city of Intramuros

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Fort Santiago in Intramuros.
Image credit: Clence Matthew Santos Villanueva

Intramuros in Manila is a historic walled city built around 1576 by Spanish colonizers. Over the years, it has retained several of its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, from mansions to fortresses.

Some of the most popular spots in the walled city are Fort Santiago and Baluarte de San Diego, remains of a fortress and a bastion. You can also learn about Philippine colonial history at several museums in the area such as Museo de Intramuros and Balay Tsinoy which tells of Chinese-Filipino history.

Kalesa and bambike.
Image adapted from: @filipinaexpat, @bambryan

Tour the area on a kalesa or a horse-drawn carriage (from 350, ~USD6.30). Or rent a Bambike, a bike made with bamboo (from P50, ~USD0.90).

If you’re into spooky stuff, you can also join Intramuros After Dark, a nighttime walking tour where you’ll learn not only the history but also urban legends surrounding Old Metro Manila.

Admission fee: Entrance to Intramuros is free; admission to some of its attractions range from P75-P200 (~USD1.35-~USD3.60)
Address: Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Intramuros is open 24 hours; attractions have different hours
Intramuros Administration’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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2. Watch a dancing fountain at Okada Manila

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The Fountain at Okada Manila.
Image credit: @okadamanila

For a fun evening event, check out The Fountain at Okada Manila. It’s a dancing fountain that happens hourly every night starting at 6PM and lasts for about 5 minutes.

The Fountain spans 50 Olympic-size pools and shoots water higher than the hotel and casino.

Shop luxury brands.
Image credit: @okadamanila

Entry is free but you can opt to watch the show from the Fountain Lounge for P1,500 (~USD27.01) per head and indulge in cocktails. If you arrive too early before the next show, you can shop luxury brands inside the hotel and casino.

You can catch free shuttle buses to and from Okada Manila at several locations in the metro including SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, and Binondo. Non-members can get a ride for free but they prioritize their members during boarding.

Admission fee: Free
Address: New Seaside Drive, Entertainment City, Parañaque, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 6pm-10pm | Fri-Sat 6pm-12pm | Sundays 6pm-11pm
Contact: 2 8888 0777
Okada Manila’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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3. Go on museum dates around Rizal Park

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National Museum of Fine Arts.
Image credit: @ririperez9

If you’re the type of traveler who loves to learn about the countries you visit, you can go on museum dates in Rizal Park. There are 3 museums that boast a Neoclassical facade but each contain different genres of history.

The National Museum of Natural History is where you’ll see an archive of the Philippines’ rich biodiversity in one place. Its displays include real Megalodon teeth originally found in different places of the country.

Replica of a butanding or whale shark which can be found in Oslob, Cebu.
Image credit: trickytreck

For a crash course on the prehistoric period, go to the National Museum of Anthropology. It contains artifacts from our ancestors’ time, including fossils of a butchered rhinoceros which suggests the presence of humans in the Philippines over 700,000 years ago.

Old Senate Session Hall.
Image credit: Eizen Barleta

If you’re into art, make sure to visit the National Museum of Fine Arts. It features colonial-era paintings and statues, Filipino modernist art, and a colorful series of murals by National Artist Carlos Francisco at the Old Senate Session Hall.

Admission fee: Free
Address: Ermita, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 9am-6pm | Closed Mondays and holidays
Contact: NM Natural History (02) 8298 1100 | NM Anthropology (02) 8298 1100 | NM Fine Arts (02) 8527 1215
National Museum’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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4. Go art gallery-hopping in Makati

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Vinyl on Vinyl.
Image adapted from: @reerustart

Go art gallery-hopping to further immerse yourself in the Filipino art scene and see the works of contemporary artists.

Makati City has areas where you’ll find many art galleries. La Fuerza Plaza has galleries such as Vinyl on Vinyl and Finale Art File, while Karrivin Plaza has Artinformal, The Drawing Room, and 1335Mabini.

Kondwi.
Image credit: @kondwi.ph

Of course, there are even more art galleries within the city outside of these spaces. To enjoy drinks and art at the same time, go to Kondwi, an art gallery-slash-bar in Poblacion.

La Fuerza Plaza
Address: 2241 Chino Roces Ave, Makati, Metro Manila
Vinyl on Vinyl’s website | Facebook | Instagram
Finale Art File’s website | Facebook | Instagram

Karrivin Plaza
Address 2316 Chino Roces Ave, Makati, Metro Manila
Artinformal’s website | Facebook | Instagram
The Drawing Room’s website | Facebook | Instagram
1335Mabini’s website | Facebook | Instagram

Kondwi
Address: 6109 Albert, Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 11am-12am, Daily
Contact: 0945 557 2471
Kondwi’s Facebook | Instagram

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5. Ride a gondola at Venice Grand Canal Mall

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Gondola at Venice Grand Canal Mall.
Image credit: David Kim

Venice Grand Canal Mall in Bonifacio Global City is an open-air, Venice-inspired mall with a man-made canal where you can ride gondolas (from P400/person, ~USD7.20) and pretend as if you’re in Italy.

The mall’s boatmen even wear outfits similar to Venetian boatmen to fit the vibes.

The bridge and the canal railings are also IG-worthy spots. You can even have a romantic dinner at one of their restaurants with a view of the canal.

Address: McKinley Hill Drive, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-9pm | Sat-Sun 9am-9pm
Contact: (02) 7624 1971
Venice Grand Canal Mall’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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6. Be mindblown at The Mind Museum

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Take photos with the moon.
Image credit: @ms.katie_kath

If you’re coming to the metro with kids, take them to The Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City.

This science museum has more than 250 dioramas and interactive exhibits. It’s a fun way for kids to learn about everything from the atoms to the universe.

Life-size T-Rex skeleton replica.
Image credit: Tourism Philippines

Tickets start at P190 (~USD3.42) for teachers and public school students for a 3-hour time slot.

The Mind Museum also has a one-and-a-half-hour interactive exhibit, Playtales (from P150, ~USD2.70), where kids 2-6 years old can learn how to interact with other people and their environment.

Admission fee: From P190 (~USD3.42)
Address: JY Campos Park, 3rd Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 9am-6pm | Closed Mon-Tue
Contact: 2 7796-0189
The Mind Museum’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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7. Explore different Filipino cultures and food at Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo

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Pose with replicas of Filipino food.
Image credit: Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo

Learn about various Filipino cultures and food in just 2 hours at the fun and interactive Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo.

Pahiyas Festival-themed display.
Image credit: @ginnyviv

It has colorful displays about Philippine ethnic groups, festivals, and attractions. There are even oversized figures of Filipino food such as adobo for your IG photos.

Besides displays, you also get to play Filipino games, cook Filipino delicacies, and try unique food – including worms and bugs.

Admission fee: From P699 (~USD12.59)
Address: 2nd Floor Filipino Village, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Parañaque, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am-8pm | Closed Mondays
Contact: 0915 009 1032
Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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8. Take IG-worthy photos at The Dessert Museum

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Kake-Pop Kourt.
Image credit: @dessertmuseum/@jaleongson

If you just want colorful photos for Instagram, visit The Dessert Museum.

The museum’s 8 dessert-themed rooms make great photo spots inspired by sweets including marshmallows, cake pops, and doughnuts. You’ll even get 4 dessert samples as a sweet treat.

Marshmallow- and doughnut-themed rooms.
Image credit: @kayermrz, @kayrmrz

Tickets to The Dessert Museum are priced from P699 (~USD12.59) but birthday celebrants can get in for free during their birth month if they bring 1 paying friend.

Admission fee: From P699 (~USD12.59)
Address: G/F Conrad Hotel, Marina Way, Pasay City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily
Contact: 0966 210 6010
The Dessert Museum’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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– Experiences –

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9. Enjoy a cultural show at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant

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One of the traditional dances performed at the restaurant.
Video credit: John KIM

To experience a Filipino fiesta in the metro, dine at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant in Intramuros.

They hold a Kultura Filipina dinner show every day at 6pm featuring different traditional dances in the Philippines. Here, you can even try your hand – or foot – at tinikling, a traditional Filipino dance that involves skipping on bamboo poles.

The restaurant is located in a Spanish Colonial structure.
Image credit: Martin Gabel

You can enjoy these performances as well as Filipino and Spanish fare in the restaurant’s Spanish colonial interiors. They even offer a dinner buffet (P1,500, ~USD26.95 per person) on Fridays to Sundays.

Address: Plaza San Luis Complex, Heneral Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 8am-9pm, Daily
Contact: (02) 8527 4083
Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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10. Unleash your inner child at DreamPlay

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Hiccup’s workshop from How To Train Your Dragon.
Image credit: cityofdreamsmanila.com

Dreamplay is an indoor theme park where kids and kids-at-heart can meet DreamWorks animated characters and join activities inspired by movies such as Shrek and How To Train Your Dragon.

If you’re going here, make sure to put on activewear as there are rock climbing and rope courses inside. But you can also opt not to join and simply take photos for the ‘gram.

Kids can also learn Kung Fu from Kung Fu Panda characters.
Image credit: cityofdreamsmanila.com

Tickets to Dreamplay cost P1,500 (~USD26.95) for participants and P350 (~USD6.29) for non-participants.

There’s also a DreamShop inside the attraction where you can buy Dreamworks movie-themed merchandise.

Admission fee: P1,500 (~USD26.95) for participants; P350 (~USD6.29) for non-participants
Address: City of Dreams Manila, Aseana Avenue corner Roxas Boulevard, Entertainment City, Parañaque, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 11am-8pm | Closed Mondays & Tuesdays
Contact: (02) 8808 0909
Dreamplay’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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11. Take a dip in a luxurious, indoor beach at Cove Manila

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Cove Manila.
Image credit: okadamanila.com

No worries if you’re not able to visit our beautiful beaches. For a luxurious “beach” experience in the metro, go to Cove Manila. It’s an indoor beach inside a massive, airconditioned glass dome in Okada Manila.

Loungers. 
Image credit: okadamanila.com

You can stay at the open pool area and relax at one of their loungers or couches. If you’re going with a big group or just want some privacy, get a private cabana with a TV and its own washroom.

The pool is open on Saturdays and Sundays. Rates start at P1,400 (~USD25.16) for 2 guests for a 3 1/2-hour timeslot, inclusive of snacks.

Pre-pandemic, the place turned into a nightclub in the evenings, which featured music by local and international DJs. However, Cove Manila has yet to relaunch its nightclub.

Admission fee: From P1,400 (~USD25.16) for 2pax
Address: Okada Manila, New Seaside Drive, Entertainment City, Parañaque, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 8am-7.30pm Sat-Sun | Closed Mon-Fri
Contact: 0917 516 0082
Cove Manila’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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12. Shop leather goods in Marikina

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A shop at the 2019 Marikina Shoe Festival.
Image credit: Marikina Shoe Festival

Buying handmade items is a great way to support local artisans in the country you’re visiting. If you’re looking for high-quality yet affordable handmade shoes in Metro Manila, go to the “Shoe Capital of the Philippines”, Marikina City.

The city has plenty of stores that sell handmade shoes and other leather goods. Valentino Shoes and Carmelletes are just 2 of the established shoe brands in the city. Marikina also hosts a shoe festival in November and a shoe bazaar during Christmastime.

Cora & Bear and andanté sandals.
Image adapted from: @cora.andbear, @andantefootwear

But in case you don’t have time to scour Marikina, you can also find Marikina-made shoes online from local shoe brands such as andanté, Cora & Bear, and Renegade Folk.

Valentino Shoes
Address: 121 Malaya Street, Malanday, Marikina City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm | Sunday 1o.30AM-5PM
Contact: (02) 8942 0674
Valentino Shoes’ Facebook

Carmelletes
Address: E. dela Paz Street, Marikina City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Closed Saturdays & Sundays
Contact: (02) 8645 2256
Carmelletes’ Facebook| Instagram

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13. Go bar-hopping at Poblacion, Makati

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Antidote.
Image credit: Antidote

Poblacion in Makati is peppered with so many bars and gastropubs that you’re sure to find a drinking spot that suits your vibe.

For a Filipino-themed gastropub, go to Alamat. It pays homage to Filipino heritage with wood and nipa (mangrove palm) interiors, Filipino food, and craft beer.

Futur:st.
Image credit: Futur:st

If you prefer a rooftop bar, Antidote has a splendid view of the city skyline. Meanwhile, for an LGBT+ safe space, art space, and dance club, check out Futur:st.

Make sure to visit Poblacion during the daytime too, as the neighborhood is also a hub for food and art.

Alamat
Address: 2nd Floor, 5666 Don Pedro, Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Tue, Thu-Sun 6pm-2am| Wednesdays 6pm-11pm | Closed Mondays
Contact: 0917 306 2024
Alamat’s Facebook | Instagram

Antidote
Address: I’M Hotel, 7862 Makati Avenue corner Kalayaan Avenue, Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 5pm-3am, Daily
Contact: (02) 7755 7888
Antidote’s Facebook | Instagram

Futur:st
Address: 5062 Guerrero Street, Poblacion, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Wed-Sat 7pm-2am | Closed Sundays to Tuesdays
Contact: 0917 528 1003
Futur:st’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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14. Bike or hike at the La Mesa Nature Reserve

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Biking trail at the La Mesa Nature Reserve.
Image credit: @gofarph

Metro Manila can seem like a complete concrete jungle. But if you’re an avid hiker who wants to experience nature in the metro, you can visit La Mesa Nature Reserve in Quezon City.

Since it’s a protected area, nature here is largely untouched. It’s mainly a destination for hikers and bikers, with trails ranging from 3km to 10km.

A bike resting by the reservoir.
Image credit: @padyak.placido

La Mesa Nature Reserve also offers a peaceful view of the reservoir. Plus, it’s a great place for bird-watching.

Entrance fee starts at P1,000 (~USD17.97) for up to 5 people and P200 (~USD3.59) for every additional person. The fee comes with a trail guide.

Admission fee: P1,000 (~USD17.97) for up to 5 people
Address: Quirino Highway, Novaliches, Quezon City,  Metro Manila
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 6am-3pm| Closed Tuesdays
Contact: (02) 3415 2227
La Mesa Nature Reserve’s Facebook

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15. Find unique clothes and home decor at vintage stores

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It’s Vintage.
Image credit: @itsvintagevintage

If you’re an avid thrifter, you might want to try your luck finding unique pieces in the Philippines.

For casual and streetwear, including Harley Davidson tees and racing jackets, It’s Vintage in Makati is the ideal thrifting spot. Meanwhile, for feminine pieces, go to Glorious Dias in Escolta, Manila, which sells clothes for P250 (~USD4.49) each or P1,000 (~USD17.98) per kilo.

Glorious Dias.
Image credit: @gabriel.villaruel

But if you want to experience how locals thrift, Makati Cinema Square is a good place to go. It has many stalls that sell affordable vintage clothes, books, home decor, and kitchenware.

It’s Vintage
Address: 195 Salcedo Street, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Thu-Sun 11am-6pm| Closed Mondays to Wednesdays
Contact: 0917 869 5757
It’s Vintage website | Facebook | Instagram

Glorious Dias
Address: Hub Make Lab, First United Building, Escolta Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 10am-7pm, Daily
Glorious Dias’ website | Facebook | Instagram

Makati Cinema Square
Address: 2130 Chino Roces Avenue, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily
Contact: (02) 8811 1204

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16. Shop new, old, and rare vinyl records

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Vinyl Dump.
Image credit: Google

Vinyl collectors might also find the rare vinyl record they’ve been looking for in the PH. You’ll find a number of shops that sell new, old, limited-edition, and rare records across Metro Manila.

For an affordable place to get records, check out Vinyl Dump in Quezon City. They sell records from the 60s to the 90s starting at P300 (~USD5.39) each.

Satchmi.
Image adapted from: @satchmiteam, @_kylachua

To shop vinyl records and dine at the same time, check out Treskul Records & Cafe or Satchmi – both of which are in Mandaluyong.

Vinyl Dump
Address: Store #23, General Romulo Street, Cubao Expo, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 10am-7pm, Daily
Contact: 0915 926 7260
Vinyl Dump’s Facebook

Treskul Records & Cafe
Address: CIFRA Building, 641 Bonifacio Avenue, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 12pm-8pm| Fridays 12pm-10pm| Saturdays 1pm-1am| Sundays 2pm-6pm
Contact: 0927 823 0516
Treskul Records & Cafe’s Facebook | Instagram

Satchmi
Address: 4th Floor, SM Megamall Fashion Hall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-11pm| Fri-Sun 10am-11pm
Contact: 0916 333 1953
Satchmi’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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17. Join an art workshop at Craft MNL

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Learn machine sewing at Craft MNL.
Image credit: Craft MNL

You might want to pick up a hobby or two if you’re staying in Metro Manila for a while. To find different workshops that may interest you, check out Craft MNL.

Craft MNL holds classes on particular days that lets you explore a new creative hobby, including brush calligraphy, embroidery, soap-making, and screen printing. They even have cooking classes such as pickling for adults and pasta cooking for kids.

Try your hand at pottery at Tahanan Pottery.
Image credit: @venisecruz

If you’re not available on any of their class dates, you can also check out other art studios in Metro Manila such as Tahanan Pottery and Wood Academy.

Craft MNL
Address: Unit 302, Pamana-Languages Building, 926 Arnaiz Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 10am-6pm| Closed Saturdays to Mondays
Contact: (02) 7444 5509
Craft MNL’s website | Facebook | Instagram

Tahanan Pottery
Address: 27 Scout Tobias corner Scout Lozano, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Fri-Wed 9am-6pm| Closed Thursdays
Contact: 0917 127 7207
Tahanan Pottery’s website | Facebook | Instagram

Wood Academy
Address:6th floor, 717 P&S Bldg, Aurora Boulevard, Barangay Mariana, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Tue, Thu-Sat 9am-7pm| Closed Mondays, Wednesdays, & Sundays
Wood Academy’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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18. Go kart racing at Driftito Extreme

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Drift karts.
Image credit: @driftito

For an exciting group activity, challenge your friends to a race at Driftito Extreme.

Here, you can choose to ride drift karts (from P200, ~USD3.60), mini-ATVs (from P220, ~USD3.96), or mini dirt bikes (from P200, ~USD3.60). You don’t even have to be an experienced driver to ride a drift kart as they’re easier to drive than regular go-karts.

Mini dirt bike and ATV.
Image credit: Teejay Jamlang 

Driftito has several branches across the metro so you can choose one that’s most convenient. Most of their locations are outdoors, but you can also go-kart in a fun, neon indoor space at SM Southmall.

Admission fee: From P200 (~USD3.60)
Contact: 0927 945 4438
Driftito’s Facebook | Instagram

For a list of branches, click here.

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19. Get a haircut at a vintage-inspired barbershop

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Burnside Barber.
Image adapted from: @burnsidebarber, @burnsidebarber

There are plenty of good quality barbershops in Metro Manila offering haircuts for as low as P50 (~USD0.90). But if you want to get your hair done at a shop with a different vibe, go to a vintage-inspired barbershop.

Burnside Barber in Quezon City is a barbershop that welcomes you with a cup of coffee. A haircut (from P600, ~USD10.79) includes a hot towel massage and styling with a pomade. To help you keep your hair healthy, they also sell hair care products including dandruff and hair loss treatments.

Folk Barbershop.
Image credit: Folk Barbershop and Retail

But for a more casual vibe and a more wallet-friendly haircut, go to Folk Barbershop in Escolta, Manila. It’s another old-school-themed barbershop that offers haircuts starting at P300 (~USD5.39).

Burnside Barber
Address: 50B Katipunan Ave, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-7pm| Sat-Sun 10am-7pm
Contact: 0977 836 7237
Burnside Barber’s Facebook | Instagram

Folk Barbershop
Address: Hub Make Lab, First United Building, Escolta Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 11am-8pm| Sundays 10am-7pm
Contact:  0906 224 5496
Folk Barbershop’s Facebook | Instagram

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20. Sip wine while painting at Sip & Gogh

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Sip & Gogh in Eastwood, Quezon City.
Image credit: @blnc.mr

Unwind with your friends and check out Sip & Gogh where you can enjoy wine as you paint.

They provide art materials, including a canvas, brushes, and paint as well as an apron to protect your clothes. They even offer a complimentary drink of your choice, including wine.

You don’t have to be an experienced painter to join. You can find an image to paint at the art studio or choose a photo of your own. Their staff will help you mix the paints if you need them to.

For P1,000 (~USD17.98), you can use their art materials, get a drink, and have a 2-hour painting session. Sip and Gogh has several branches across the metro.

Admission fee: P1,000 (~USD17.98)
Sip & Gogh’s website | Instagram

For a list of branches, click here.

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21. Jump to your heart’s content at the WiiJump Philippines

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The free zone.
Image adapted from: @lurrainecruz

The biggest trampoline park in the country, WiiJump Philippines, is a place that’ll surely bring out the child in you.

Besides a vast free zone, it has different areas such as the V Trampoline and the Island Zone for adventurous jumpers. You can also play dodgeball or shoot hoops while on a trampoline.

Sticky wall.
Image credit: Ashley Nicole Bilog

Non-trampoline activities include a sticky wall and a falling net. Of course, there’s a foam pit to launch yourself into for the laughs.

Admission to WiiJump starts at P399 (~USD7.17) for one hour and an additional P299 (~USD5.38) for every succeeding hour.

Admission fee: From P399 (~USD7.24)
Address: 2nd Floor Expansion Wing, Festival Supermall, Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 10am-9pm, Daily
Contact: 0969 327 7020
WiiJUMP Philippines’ website | Facebook | Instagram

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22. Shop for souvenirs at Souvenir Island, Quiapo

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Souvenir Island.
Image credit: Vega W

You’ll find souvenir shops at almost every attraction in the Philippines. But if you want to have lots of options at a wallet-friendly price, go to souvenir shops in Quiapo, Manila such as Souvenir Island.

They have everything from fridge magnets and keychains, to shirts and bags, and even home decor.

Dried mangoes.
Image credit: Souvenir Island General Merchandise

They also sell Filipino food items such as gourmet tinapa (smoked fish in oil) and dried mangoes that are popular with both locals and tourists.

Address: 135 Carlos Palanca Street, Quiapo, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm | Closed Sundays
Contact: (02) 8735 4319
Souvenir Island’s Facebook

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– Dining –

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23. Explore local street eats at the Ugbo night market

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Ugbo Night Market.
Image credit: @dianecrielsalanguste

If you want to try authentic Filipino street food, go to the Ugbo Night Market in Tondo, Manila.

It’s where you’ll find wallet-friendly street food such as Filipino barbecue which includes pork meat, pork ears, chicken intestines, chicken feet, and more. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, get tumbong soup made with pork bung.

Pork bung soup.
Image credit: @aabrelataa

You’ll also find foreign snacks such as milk tea, takoyaki, and shawarma whose flavors have been adapted to the Filipino palate.

So you can best enjoy your street food finds, there are seats in front of most stalls.

Address: Ugbo Street, Velasquez, Tondo, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 5pm-12am, Daily

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24. Taste different cuisines at the Legazpi Sunday Market

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Legazpi Sunday Market.
Image credit: @thegratergood

For a more upscale street market, check out the Legazpi Sunday Market amid the Makati Central Business District.

It has many stalls selling international cuisine including Thai, Indian, Turkish, and Moroccan. Of course, there’s also Filipino food such as lechon (roast pig), bibingka (rice cake), and Ilocos empanada.

Sinigang burrito.
Image credit: @alcobaburrows_eats

You’ll even find fusion dishes such as the sinigang burrito, which incorporates the sour Filipino soup’s ingredients into the Mexican wrap.

Going early to the Legazpi Sunday Market is advised as food often gets sold out by 10am and many stalls close before noon.

Besides ready-to-eat food, there are also stalls at the market that sell fresh produce, sustainable products, and local crafts.

Address: Corinthian Carpark, Legazpi Village, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Sun 7.30am-2pm | Closed Mondays to Saturdays
Contact: 0918 965 7825
Legazpi Sunday Market’s Facebook | Instagram

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25. Try different balut dishes in Pateros

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Balut.
Image adapted from: @chrisray.abuan

Adventurous foodies shouldn’t miss out on eating balut (fertilized duck egg) in the Philippines. There’s nowhere better to try it than in Pateros, dubbed the Balut Capital of the Philippines for its many duck farms that produce the delicacy.

Balut is sold on the streets in the Philippines. Locals usually enjoy this boiled and with salt and spiced vinegar sauce.

Sizzling balut. Image used for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: @aniloz.kai19

But there are also a few restaurants that cook balut in different recipes. Dos Hermanas Food Express in Pateros serves adobong balut (balut in a soy sauce-based stew), sweet and sour balut, and sizzling balut (P985 per dish, ~USD17.87).

While you’re in Pateros, you should also try penoy (boiled unfertilized duck eggs) and salted duck eggs.

Dos Hermanas Food Express
Address: 29 B. Morcilla Street, Pateros, Metro Manila
Opening hours:Wed-Mon 11am-7:30pm | Closed Tuesdays
Contact: 0931 066 6690 | 0927 799 9789
Dos Hermana’s Facebook | Instagram

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26. Go on a Chinese-Filipino food crawl in Binondo

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Sincerity fried chicken.
Image credit: @beryl_chan

The oldest Chinatown in the world, Binondo, Manila is home to many established Chinese-Filipino restaurants and snack spots. It makes for the best place for a food crawl when you’re in the metro as food spots are in the same area.

Go to Lan Zhou La Mien for hand-pulled noodles (from P280, ~USD5.08) and Sincerity Cafe & Restaurant for oriental-style fried chicken (from P200, ~USD3.63).

Shanghai Fried Siopao.
Image credit: @whatsonmyplateeee

If you’re craving xiao long bao (soup dumplings), go to Dong Bei Dumpling which also serves kuchay (chive) dumplings and other dim sum (from P180, ~USD3.27).

For a quick snack, go to New Po Heng Lumpia House for fresh lumpia (spring roll) (P95, ~USD1.72) or Shanghai Fried Siopao for fried siopao (steamed bun) (P30, ~USD0.54). You can also buy mooncakes, hopia (filled, flaky pastry), tikoy (sticky rice cake), and Chinese deli items in the area.

Lan Zhou La Mien
Address:Reina Regente Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 9am-7pm, Daily
Contact: 0917 826 6888
Lan Zhou La Mien’s Facebook

Sincerity Cafe & Restaurant
Address: 519 Quintin Paredes Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 9am-9pm, Daily
Contact: 0945 579 2781
Sincerity Cafe & Restaurant’s Facebook

Dong Bei Dumpling
Address: 642 Yuchengco corner V. Tytana Street, Binondo, Manila, Mero Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8.30am-7pm | Sun 8.30am-6pm
Contact:(02) 8241 8912
Dong Bei Dumpling’s Facebook

New Po Heng Lumpia House
Address: 621 Carvajal Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm | Closed Sundays
Contact: (02) 7753 1891
New Po Heng Lumpia House’s Facebook

Shanghai Fried Siopao
Address: 828 Ongpin Street corner Bahama Street, Binondo, Manila, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 7am-6pm, Daily
Contact: (02) 8734 0886
Shanghai Fried Siopao’s Facebook

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27. Dine with a Spanish colonial vibe at Las Casas Quezon City

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Las Casas Quezon City.
Image credit: @tinapay13

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Quezon City is a small compound of Spanish Colonial era structures that houses a couple of dining spots. It’s a  bite-sized version of the Spanish-Filipino-style resort Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan.

At Kusina ni Maria, you can get well-loved Filipino fare including Sinigang na Hipon (P600, ~USD10.89) and Chicken Pork Adobo (P620, ~USD11.26). 

Enjoy a 4-course meal with a Spanish-era-esque ambiance.
Image credit: @lascasasqc

Meanwhile, La Bella serves Italian cuisine, including a variety of pizzas, calzones, and paninis. They also offer a 4-course meal for P4,000 (~USD72.62) for 2 people.

Las Casas Quezon City also holds events such as Friday disco and offers tour-and-dine packages so check out their socials for their offerings of the month.

Address: 134 Roosevelt Avenue, San Francisco Del Monte, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 11am-9pm, Daily
Contact: 0917 136 6796
Las Casas Quezon City’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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28. Try Jollibee in the motherland

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Jollibee’s 1,000th store in BGC.
Image credit: Johan Nitura

The Philippines-founded fast food chain now have stores in various countries. But those who’ve tried it in the Philippines will tell you that Jollibee in the motherland just hits different. And there are products available here that you can’t find abroad and vice-versa.

Chickenjoy.
Image credit: @eatingwjulsy

Have their famous Chickenjoy (starts at P82, ~USD1.49) with rice as it was intended to be enjoyed.

You should also get the Garlic Pepper Beef (from P95, ~USD1.72), Jollibee’s version of the Filipino breakfast dish tapa (cured beef), which is back for the holidays in 2022.

Jollibee’s website | Facebook | Instagram

For a list of branches, click here.

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29. Try Manam’s Filipino food with a twist

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Manam in Ayala Mall’s Manila Bay.
Image credit: @ciellytravelsandeats

Manam is a chain restaurant in the metro that’s popular for Filipino food with twists.

For Filipino dishes you can’t find anywhere else, try their Crispy Pancit Palabok (from P221.45, ~USD4.02) which has fried rice noodles, and Sinigang na Beef Short Rib and Watermelon (from P278.10, ~USD5.05).

Crispy Pancit Palabok.
Image credit: manam.momentfood.com

Of course, you can still get classic Filipino recipes such as chicken inasal (roasted chicken) (from 144.20, ~USD2.61) and pork binagoongan (pork stewed in shrimp paste) (P231.75, ~USD4.19).

They offer various portions of their dishes so you can try as many of these as you can whether you’re dining alone or in a big group.

Do note that queues going into their restaurants can be quite long, so be sure to go there earlier than the time you wish to dine.

Manam’s website | Facebook | Instagram

For a list of branches, click here.

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30. Get vegan Filipino comfort food at Cosmic

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Cosmic Poblacion.
Image credit: Cosmic Poblacion, Makati – A Vegan Restaurant & Cafe

If you’re vegan or coming to the Philippines with a vegan friend, check out Cosmic, a full-fledged vegan restaurant serving plant-based versions of well-loved Filipino food.

Vegan kare-kare and sisig.
Image credit: @cleomacchiato

The restaurant’s popular dishes include kare-kare with mock pork bagnet (peanut stew with deep-fried mock pork) (P250, ~USD4.54) and mock pork bagnet sisig (stir fried crispy mock pork) (P250, ~USD4.54).

To top off your meal, they also serve drinks and desserts including vegan chocolate cake and brownies.

Poblacion, Makati branch
Address: G/F 4980, P. Guanzon Street, Poblacion, Makati City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 11am-7pm | Fri-Sun 11am-8pm | Closed Tuesdays
Contact: 0915 365 8758

Kapitolyo, Pasig branch
Address: 7 San Rafael Street, Pasig City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 11am-7pm | Fri-Sun 11am-8pm | Closed Mondays
Contact: 0968 693 1344

Cosmic’s Facebook | Instagram

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31. Buy fresh seafood and have it cooked in a restaurant at the Dampa Seafood Market

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Dampa Seafood Market.
Image credit: 백경훈 FoodClearhoon

Get the Filipino dampa or wet market experience and go to the Dampa Seafood Market in Pasay.

Here, you get to buy fresh seafood such as fish, shrimp, and shellfish including lobsters. Some shellfish are even alive inside aquariums in the market.

Live seafood in aquariums.
Image credit: Wayne Wú

Then, go to one of the restaurants in the area for paluto or cooking service. These offer different flavors and methods of cooking for your seafood buys. This way, you can get anything from baked scallops to chili crabs.

Chili garlic crabs from Huey Ying.
Image credit: @foodeezle

Some of the most recommended restos in the area for paluto are Huey Ying Restaurant, Aling Tonya’s Seafood Palutuan, and Hong Kong Master Cook.

Dampa Seafood Market
Address: Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay 76, Pasay City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 10am-10.30pm, Daily

Huey Ying Restaurant
Address: Unit 6, Lot 5-A , Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay 76, Pasay City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu-Sat 10am-9pm | Wed & Sun 10am-11pm
Contact: (02) 8556 4541
Huey Ying Restaurant’s Facebook

Aling Tonya’s Seafood Palutuan
Address: Building 2, L0t 5, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay 76, Pasay City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 10am-8pm, Daily
Contact: (02) 8889 2504
Aling Tonya’s Seafood Palutuan’s Facebook | Instagram

Hong Kong Master Cook
Address: L0t 5, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard, Barangay 76, Pasay City, Metro Manila
Opening hours: 11am-10pm, Daily
Contact: 0917 304 6284
Hong Kong Master Cook’s Facebook

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32. Get mango- and ube-flavored delicacies

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Conti’s Ube Custard Cake.
Image credit: @lowkeylakwatsera

Mango and ube (purple yam) are two flavors which the Philippines is known for, so make sure to try these when you’re in the Philippines. But beyond fresh mangos and ube jam, there are other ways to enjoy these flavors.

If you can’t get enough of ube, get Conti’s Bakeshop & Restaurant‘s Ube Custard Cake (P1,025, ~USD18.61). For a sweet treat you can finish on your own, grab an Ube Langka cookie (P110 each, ~USD2.00) from Scout’s Honor.

Mangga’t Suman gelato.
Image credit: @foodganda

To beat the metro heat and enjoy our sweet mangoes, get a pint of Mangga’t Suman gelato (mango sticky rice gelato (P380/pint, ~USD6.90) at Manila Creamery. Or get their new Mango Jasmine flavor exclusively at their SM Megamall, Vertis North, and Alabang Town Center branches.

Conti’s Bakeshop & Restaurant
Contact: (02) 8580 8888
Conti’s Bakeshop & Restaurant’s website | Facebook | Instagram
For a list of branches, click here.

Scout’s Honor
Contact: 0917 589 4547
Scout’s Honor’s website | Facebook | Instagram
For a list of branches, click here.

Manila Creamery
Contact: 0915 257 3066
Manila Creamery’s website | Facebook | Instagram
For a list of branches, click here.

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33. Have a fancy Filipino tasting course at Toyo Eatery

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Toyo Eatery’s interior.
Image credit: @rmrreyes

For a fancy Filipino tasting menu, dine at Toyo Eatery. It’s a contemporary Filipino restaurant that serves unique takes on national and regional Filipino dishes made with ingredients sourced from across the country.

The restaurant offers 4-course (₱1,000/person, ~USD18.15) and 8-course (₱3,600/person, ~USD65.35) tasting menus where you’ll get to try dishes such as homemade buro (fermented fish) and tostadong bigas (toasted black rice snack).

Homemade buro.
Image credit: @dailygoodfoodph

The dining experience follows a story that’ll make you appreciate their dishes even more. It’s no wonder that the dining spot was included in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants from 2019 to 2021.

Address: The Alley at Karrivin, Karrivin Plaza, 2316 Chino Roces Ave Extension, Makati, Metro Manila
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 6pm-11.30pm | Closed Sundays & Mondays
Contact: 0917 720 8630
Toyo Eatery’s website | Facebook | Instagram

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Things t0 do in Metro Manila

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Don’t worry if you don’t have enough time to explore the Philippines. There are so many things you can do in the metro for an unforgettable vacation without having to fly off to other places in the country.

You can experience different Filipino cultures through Metro Manila’s various attractions, activities, and dining spots!

Also check out:

• Basic Filipino phrases
• Filipino etiquette tips
• Metro Manila hostels

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Cover image adapted from: @okadamanila, okadamanila.com, David Kim, and @thegratergood