My trip to the Philippines wouldn't have been complete without visiting Intramuros. We took a rideshare and our driver dropped us off on Soriano Ave & General Luna St. As soon as we got out of the vehicle, a tour guide approached us. He had one of those pictorial cards and pointed to the photos of where his stops would be. His tour price was reasonable. We signed up with him right on the spot. It was half walking and half riding around in an e-cart. He was a seasoned tour guide and knew his way around Intramuros. The e-cart driver was a safe driver too. We stopped by top destinations like Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Baluarte de San Diego. I'm glad there were interpretive signs at each spot. We saw some kalesas too. Our guide was accommodating and flexible with our time. He also directed us to restrooms as needed. It was a good private tour. Right place, right time. We took a lot of photos. We were able to pay him in cash money Philippine Pesos after the tour ended. Something to think about when touring Intramuros is that it gets pretty hot. I would recommend bringing a handheld electric fan and/or an electric neck fan, a power bank to charge electronics, a UV umbrella, water and snacks. Wear good shoes, light clothes, and put on sunscreen as well. If it's your first time Intramuros, there is a lot to absorb. You can always return and explore on your own, at your own pace once you know the lay of the land. Intramuros was a good place to visit for Philippine history, culture, and architecture. read more

Intramuros - Cultural Center Near Me - Manila, NCR

Considering I was stationed @ Clark AFB for about 5 years and having been back numerous times over the years I had driven by but never stopped. Considering this maybe my last time to make this (omg so long trip) vacation spot. So we went to various places I had never been before, this area is adjacent to Ft Santiago and has some "hawkers" but not really too many (try going to Draculas castle they have people selling stuff from the parking lot to the castle door) they have a few things that are the usual tourist kitch but you can usually get some fridge magnet or straw hat etc but the area is absolutely gorgeous and very little if any entrance fees. The church is absolutely stupendous. I have been to many magnificent cathedrals form Italy to England to Japan & now the Philippines. Truly an amazing area to spend 1/2 a day and to understand philippine history. A great place overall. read more

Must visit for first timers to Manila. There's so much history here & landmarks. It's considered the Old Manila. It was a walled city. Definitely go early as it gets hot. I took a Grab from my hotel & walked the area. I didn't need a guide. I just took my time to walk around. There's some shops to grab souvenirs and a cold drink. Highlights are Fort Santiago where the national hero Jose Rizal was imprisoned & San Agustin Church the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Definitely try to enjoy lunch or dinner here at a restaurant called Barbara's. I did not use any tour guide or purchase any tour package to visit Intramuros or dine at Barbara's. I had a great experience. read more

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It was so cool to step into history in Intramuros. It felt like taking a step into historic Manila in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city. I really enjoyed the history of the area and learning more about Jose Rizal. I loved the small shops around the museum too. The mango shake store was 10/10! It was the perfect cool down drink during a warm day out. If you're looking to learn more about the culture of the Philippines, Intramuros is a great place to go. read more

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If you want to get a glimpse of life during Colonial Spanish rule in the Philippines, Intramuros is the place to visit. Intramuros is in Metro Manila and is a 40-minute drive from NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport). Known best as the walled city, this stone fortress was erected around the late 1500's during the inception of the Spanish Colonial Period in the Philippines. The purpose of the walled city lined with cannons was to protect the area (both land and sea waterways) from foreign invaders. Intramuros was the center of many catholic (San Agustin) and educational institutions which to date, are home to a number of prestigious schools i.e. Lyceum and Mapua. Intramuros survived centuries of natural disasters and wars. Although the surrounding areas have succumbed to modernization, the interior predominately remains the same. Many historical sites, like Fort Santiago and the Shrine of Jose Rizal are worth spending time in enriching you with significant events of the period. The grounds have some of the best souvenir shops in the city. I highly recommend The Silahis Center, Kultura and the many street vendors selling various wares. For the best dragon fruit shake and side of fries visit El Desvan Café. We visited in mid-October and the weather was pretty decent. It's still warm during that time of year (roughly 87 degrees with humidity) but you'll avoid the rainy season. TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: I would recommend bringing/wearing sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes (you'll be doing a lot of walking) bug spray, sunglasses, portable travel fan, fanny pack/purse/backpack, Kleenex, toilet paper (Yes you heard right. Not all bathrooms are equipped with it even in 2025) wet wipes, and pack at least 2 bottles of water. FEES: Intramuros fees are about 75 PHP (Philippine Peso) which equates to about under $1.30 USD. It's a nice and inexpensive way to tour Metro Manila and take in a good number of historical sites. PARKING: Unless you're a local with a car or can hire a driver that knows the parking spots in the area, you're better off getting a taxi (Grab) here. Happy Travels! read more

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I spent five days in Manila, and from what I gathered from my own observations and local guidance, Intramuros is by far the most scenic, tourist-friendly part of the city. We ended up here twice during our trip, and it was nice to visit both times. A beautiful, historic place, dense with sights to see. Intramuros--or "Within the Walls"--is a .26 square-mile walled area within Manila, surrounded by stone fortifications that you can walk along today, admiring the cannons. The district once made up the entire city of Manila, and you can absorb a lot of local history here, wandering among all the centuries-old Spanish colonial era buildings. The area is small enough to explore on foot, or with one of the many pedicab drivings looking to transport tourists. I took a couple of those rides and found them quite pleasurable. We walked along the Baluarte de San Francisco de Dilao, visited the San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral, and explored Plaza de Roma and Plaza San Luis. We wandered by Plaza Moriones, where a giant tree lay felled by strong winds. Intramuros felt like historic parts of Mexico City, which I guess makes sense given the Spanish influence. If you're a tourist in Manila, Intramuros should be on the top of your must-see list. You can get a good sense of it in an afternoon, though I'm sure you can enjoy it for much longer. read more

Cool tourist attraction if you're into history. Intramuros (Within the Walls) are the ruins of a fort and government center for Spain when they colonized the Philippines from the 1600s-1800s. If it weren't for this heavily walled fort most Filipino surnames would probably be Chinese instead of Spanish. Lol. For a small fee you can view Fort Santiago and its grounds. There are also 2 churches here because this was also the center for Christian education and why this country is still predominantly Catholic. The architecture of these churches are straight from Europe so it has this classic aura that even a non-religious person can feel. When I entered that church I just couldn't help but be moved and touched by the beauty of all the curves and details. The time and devotion the people in the old days took to create such timeless art, bewilders me. World War 2 damaged the area further and the Japanese seized the area temporarily. There's an area that depicts that part of history as well with grim photos of the brutality of war. The area is now surrounded by modern city life from high rise buildings to a golf course to even some less privileged neighborhoods. What once started off as an isolated city is now a giant international city of commerce and trade. In order to get a view of the future, one must understand and appreciate the past. Reverence filled me that day. read more

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Ancient walled city of Manila built by the Spaniards [MANILA, Philippines] The last time I was here in Intramuros was in 1996 when my cousin held their wedding reception venue at Patio Victoria located in 5435 General Luna corner Victoria Streets. whooo! that was forever long time ago... they are still married, btw. The wall was built by the Spaniards as a defensive structure. It was like a different world in here when we entered this walled city. Fort Santiago is one of Manila's most historical landmarks. We spent our afternoon here on a scenic walk around the fort. Elsewhere in Intramuros are churches, plazas, museums, and schools. It was cool to see security personnel dressed like Guardia Civils (Spanish-era civil guards) in many parts of Intramuros. Wish we had more time exploring the area as old Spanish-era influences can still be seen here and I really wanted to experience riding a kalesa (a two-wheeled horse-drawn carriage). Next time. Intramuros, including Fort Santiago was designated a National Historical Landmark in 1951. Review #3310 read more

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The name "Intramuros" from the Spanish word means within walls or inside the walls. The walls were built to fend attacks in the late 16th century. It's located in urban district and historic walled city within Metropolitan Manila, in the Philippines. Intramuros was the center of political, religious, and educational activities. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction with museums, walking tours, well-preserved architecture, and remnants of the city's history. It is a must-see when you're in manila. I believe it's about 75 Philippine peso for entrance = $1.35 USD. read more

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Love how Cafe Intramuros is situated right in front of San Agustin! The spaciousness is a big plus too! read more

Intramuros - Cafe Intramuros - Cultural Center Near Me - Manila, NCR

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Great spot to take in the history. Careful of the people on tricycles wanting to give you a tour. They told us it was 350 for all the spots and I even asked them for a copy of pricing which they never gave me and it turns out they expect 350 pesos every 30 minutes. But overall visiting the site and surrounding sites was so nice. read more

Its one of the gems you have to see when coming to Manila. It's stepping back into time while watching the progression of the blend into present. Beautiful town with beautiful people. I appreciate how they are keeping the area clean. Gorgeous churches in walking distance... Manila Cathedral and St. Augustine is a must to see. Enjoy the kalesa if you get the chance. Cool off with the ice cream carts, or chose to sit a local cafe shops. So many photo opportunities. Fort Santiago has an entrance fee. And souvenirs shops close to the entrance. Bring a blanket for a picnic or chose to admire the scenery at one of their benches. When you come closer to the evening they have lights in the trees. Museums close at 6pm at the fort so make time to arrive earlier. read more

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Great place to visit when you're in Manila and want to kill time. I love learning about history & this place was a little step back in time. Beautiful parts of places of what once was. There are restaurants and places to grab coffee & quick bites. read more

Intramuros is a step back in time. Intamuros is Spanish for within the walls. This beautiful walled area is within Manila. It has many pre war structures and the area is flat and great for a long walk. You can also take a bike ride or have a guide, all up to you. It was once the center for education, churches and the economy of the area. The area is being renovated in some areas and restored in others. It really is an education to walk through, there is just so much to see. Fort Santiago is located there and is a National Historical Landmark. The fortifications are considered National Cultural Treasures, by the National Museum of the Philippines. San Agustin Church is also located here. It is a wonderful place to spend the day. You will find street vendors and the area is safe. Have a great time. read more

Intramuros hits differently when you stop viewing it as the usual "school educational tour" attraction. There are great new experiences such as Bambike and Mystery Manila adventure. Sure, you can do the usual touristy thing like riding a kalesa or touring all the establishments. But I think what makes for a more authentic Intramuros trip would be riding a locally-made bicycle around the cobbled streets of the walled city. Or maybe trying out some of the local cuisines at dusk when all the warm lights of the buildings and trees are lighting up. Giving it 4 stars because the experience could still get better. A lot of the vendors take advantage of tourists and offer overpriced rides around the city. read more

Intramuros - Cultural Center Near Me - Manila, NCR

Grew up in the Philippines but never been here when I was a child. So decided to visit when we visited. This place reminded me of Spain. Lots of Spanish influence in the structure and build. It was an enjoyable walk and tour. They have a museum of Rizal and show room on how the wall was built. I would recommend this place for tourist who wants to know more of the history of the Philippines. Tip: Go early to avoid high sun and crowd. read more

Intramuros - Cultural Center Near Me - Manila, NCR

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Intramuros is one of the oldest place in Manila, this is very close to Luneta Park where our greatest Hero Jose Rizal was executed. After a show trial, was convicted of sedition and sentenced to death by the Spaniard because he was against by their rule! Now, Intramuros is a historical place, it really looks old and you will find it a bit creepy when walking there during evening time. But a lot of people and tourist during day time! I recommend to go there during Christmas aa they decorate very nicely! read more

Intramuros (Spanish for "within the walls") is the oldest district and historic core of Manila in the Philippines. The walls were constructed in late 16th century to protect from foreign invasions. The walls were damaged during WWII and were reconstructed in 1950s. Intramuros is now declared as a National Historical Monument. The present day Intramuros contains the following: - Fort Santiago - Several Educational Institutions (including Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Colegio de Santa Rosa, Manila High School) - 2 Churches - San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral Great place to spend a few hours to explore for the culture vultures. ENJOY! read more

Take a historical tour of Manila by visiting its famed Intramuros District. Intramuros which literally means "within walls" in Spanish is Manila's walled city and also the oldest district. Intramuros was built by the Spanish as a defense against foreign invasion. This was a vibrant city during the Spanish times before the country became an American colony and before Japan attacked the city. Nowadays it's a popular tourist destination where Spanish influence is visible. There are schools, churches, and local businesses tourists can visit within the district. The Manila Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the country. In the morning you may even see a traditional weddings take place. Also make sure to visit Fort Santiago, and check out the Rizal Museum! You can walk around the site, or ride a "kalesa" (horse carriage). There are some guides in some parts of the site, and there's a small entrance fee. Entrance fees are the same for tourists and locals in The Philippines. As a tourist/traveler, it is required to pay higher entrance fee in some Southeast Asian countries, so it's good that's not the case here in The Philippines. read more

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I am Culture's greatest fan (yes I call myself that after listening to Edwin McCain's I'll Be last night). Something about cultural heritage makes me happy, makes me want to preserve it, it excites me. To cut it short, these places are the ones I go to anytime, whether I am sad or happy. It's my happy place, that or anywhere near the water. This is why it's not a big surprise to know how much I love Intramuros, the famous walled city that served as Manila's capital during the Spanish colonial times. Walking through the bricked roads lined with colonial-era establishments well preserved throughout the years. Whenever I am here, I would always have the cab drop me in front of the Manila Cathedral. Then I would walk to Fort Santiago for a dose of history. If I am a little tired, I would drop by Barbara's for a quick meal. It's in the same area as Casa Manila which is my favorite spot in Intramuros. Reminds me a bit of Verona. If you have time to spare, drop by the oldest stone church right across, San Agustin Church. Just don't lock yourself in one of the rooms where they keep all the bodies of the long-dead priests like I did. read more

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I used to love this vintage walled city until the Intramuros administration decided to close the parian gate. From my point of view as a local I am much disappointed that many spots inside Intramuros are closed to the public. Some of the closed spots there are being used for pricey wedding celebrations. Aside from the usual Kalesa ride, tourists may also want to try renting the bamboo bikes and Segway rides to visit the old churches like the Manila Cathedral and the San Agustin Church. The best time to visit Intramuros is early morning and late in the afternoon mostly if you want to have perfect lighting pictures. There are also lots of affordable snacks that can be bought in the area. Bring a friend, spend the day by walking or biking, Intramuros is worth a try. read more

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As a Manilenyo (born, raised, educated) who now lives abroad, this place has a special place in my heart. It is the main attraction that sets Manila apart from its more cosmopolitan neighboring cities, which has surpassed it in leaps and bounds. Makati and Ortigas (or even BGC) may have their skyscrapers and modern flare, but Manila has Intramuros that gives it a historic and nostalgic charm. The cobbled stone streets, old houses, old churches, restaurants, museums, kalesas ... things that other cities can't even offer. Thanks to mayor Kiko, Intramuros (and the rest of Manila) is finally getting the rehabilitation and attention it deserves. The most visited Asian and European cities by tourists are those that value their history and culture. Let us continue to support the preservation and restoration of our historical edifices. read more

Whenever my foreign or Bacolod-based friends come to Manila for a visit and they want a quick but immersive historical tour of Old Manila, I bring them to Intramuros and show them around the beautiful walled city. I usually start each impromptu tour with a walk around Muralla street, where one can actually access the battlements and the stone structures that aided the old Manilenyos in keeping the walled city safe. Walking around Intramuros is always a nice experience, and even though I have been here many times, each walk through the ancient walls is unique and fun because of the memories that I create with my friends. I love how the Intramuros Administration has recently taken steps to make sure that modern businesses remain faithful to the architecture, and establishments such as Starbucks, McDonald's and even 7 Eleven were all built into the old structures so that they don't stick out like sore thumbs. I also love bringing guests to the roofdeck of the Bayleaf, where one is afforded a majestic view of the bay and the city, especially during sunset. The walled city has a number of interesting activities and tours, but going through it and accidentally stumbling into quirky souvenirs stores and shops always add to the fun. read more

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If there is one thing that is an absolute must when visiting Manila, it is exploring the rich history and admiring the architecture of Intramuros. Intramuros offers a much needed escape from the hustle & bustle of Manila life. Not only will you be mesmerized walking down the cobble-stoned streets, looking up at the vast historical buildings. It is surely a delight to explore such a significant part of Manila's history here. Here you will find a number of anecdotes- from the Spanish colonization to the effects of WWII. The tour is very informative and gives you a better understanding of the country. The guides are more than happy to go above and beyond during their tour and you will leave with a new sense of appreciation for Manila. Make sure to explore the areas around Intramuros- you can find unique handicrafts, which make for great pasalubong (gifts for your loved ones)! read more

I've only been to the famous walled city just a year ago and I'm already 23. I've always wanted to visit this historical place because of dull Modern Manila. I wanna feel how it was back then and get that dose of nostalgia. Intramuros never fails to bring the nostalgic feeling that you get from reading history books to actual life. You get to see the old houses and interiors back then in their museum and they also have vintage cafes that serve classic Filipino foods. In Intramuros, you don't only get to see the old Manila but also the current Manila and get to compare how Manila has evolved throughout the years. You get to see establishments like Mcdonald's, Jollibee, etc. and a few steps, you get to see vintage cafes and bistros. Carlos Celdran also conducts a tour but it's a bit pricey for a student like me. If I do get to save, I'm definitely trying it out. They also have events like Pasyal Manila and Viva Manila to showcase the beauty of Intramuros and our culture. read more

Intramuros - Cultural Center Near Me - Manila, NCR

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Loosely translated, Intramuros in Spanish means 'inside the wall', and the locals have taken to calling the area the Walled City. They weren't kidding with that moniker either. It literally is a fair-sized city inside those walls. I clarify this because most people consider Intramuros as a single tourist spot that they can go to once and say that they've seen everything. Heck no. Intramuros is a living, breathing city, and I invite you to walk its broad thoroughfares to really see the guts of this beautiful gem. If you're an architecture buff, or just a fan of old things like I am, this would be a bit of an adventure. The city is cris-crossed by broad streets, some of them still with their original cobblestone, lined with original streetlamps the Spanish left behind. Here and there are airy plazas with al fresco dining areas, and colonial houses -- their stone and wood facades dwarfing their surrounding buildings. This is a part of Manila's history, and you can feel the ghosts of past pain and historic moments flowing through the city. read more

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Must visit Intramuros, the walled district, when you're in Manila for some Philippino history and background. You'll learn about Rizal, the national hero, the colonialism that's taken place by Spain, Japan, and the US, and how it's affected the country. Show a student ID for a discount. It's quick but complete; you feel like you learn a ton here, and you see some cool architecture, too. There are also free volunteer guides who are happy to show you the way. read more

Intramuros is must visit place when you go to the Philippines. There are a lot of historical places that you can go. I recommend going to Rizal Shrine, to commemorate the death of national hero Jose Rizal and Manila Cathedral to offer a quiet prayer in the church. When you go in Intramuros, you must bring an umbrella, towel, and water because you will experience long walking and the heat. read more

looking up at the vast historical buildings. It is surely a delight to explore such a significant part of Manila's history here.

I've been inside the walled city of Manila countless times. Whether for school, work and NGO initiatives. But recently, I was able to tour our historical landmark using only a bike. In this generation, we have been accustomed to always bring our gadgets, take photos of everything we see and readily upload those photos in Social Media. Sometimes, we tend to forget to just stop, see and experience what's beyond the lens. Don't get me wrong, I love taking photos. It was just the first time for me to leave all my gadgets, and just freely tour the historical walls of Intramuros, Manila. Definitely a very humbling experience. No frills, no fancy stuff, no pictures to upload. I was able to go around for an hour. I wish the walls could speak and teach us a thing or two of letting go for an hour or so with social media. It was a freeing experience. If you happen to visit Intramuros, go for a tour. Or better yet, explore it on your own. The Intramuros Administration prepared a DIY tour everyone can easily do. But if you are capable of bringing a bike, trust me it's the best transportation while inside. read more

Intramuros - New and old combined. - Cultural Center Near Me - Manila, NCR

In a past life, I must have lived inside Intramuros. Literally, this is my home away from home. Something about Intramuros excites me, thrills me, and makes me feel good. Everytime I go to Intramuros, it feels like I'm coming home. Intramuros is Metro Manila's biggest historical bastion, and some places in it do feel like I'm in the middle of the Spanish times. While I would love for everything in Intramuros to be spic and span, I am at least glad the current administration is working to fix the place up. If you're new to the place, you need to drop by the following places: Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Fort Santiago, the walls at the Muralla side, and the Manila House. Also, if you can spring for a kalesa ride, go ahead and do so. And if you need a tour guide, look up Carlos Celdran. He is unbeatable when it comes to Intramuros. read more

I'm sure most of us locals have visited Intramuros at least a dozen times throughout our lives, but I think this is one of those places we can and should keep coming back to if only to keep alive its history. It's too sad that most of Manila has lost its pre-war beauty but at least we still have this piece of the old city to remind us of what it used to be like. Isn't it interesting that this walled compound was the only "Manila" referred to, then? Everything else outside was "extramuros" and not really "Manila" anymore. So the inside is really a glimpse of the full city life during those colonial times. While it has struggled to rebuild and keep alive what has remained after the war, you still have significant structures standing like the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Fort Santiago, Letran, and a couple of monuments and buildings. Most of which they've reconstructed into museums, business establishments, and administrative buildings, while still respecting the same look and character from their original time. That's what's great about Intramuros. Even the security force wears colonial time guardia civil type uniforms! And even with modernization at the helm, you see them taking the effort to keep the integrity of the place (no matter how hard). Heritage conservation. Adaptive reuse. I bet you haven't seen any Starbucks like the Starbucks there is in Intramuros! ;) Visit the Light & Sound Museum and Casa Manila, dine at Barbara's or Ilustrado, drive through the streets in a calesa, discover what used to be or what still is at each spot and imagine what it was like then at a place that has defined so much, both good and bad, of the Philippines' history and cultural identity. read more

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I'm no history buff, nor do I consider myself an expert in the walled city of Intramuros. In fact, the last time I went here and we were looking for a specific office building, we got completely lost in the city to the point where I ended up using GPS. However, I can comment on how incredible I find the way that they have preserved the look, feel, and spirit of the old city even as the area became more and more developed. After walking for a while in circles, we decided to stop by a 7-11 that was quite possibly the most amazing 7-11 I've ever seen. A 7-11 that was built into one of the regular old Manila buildings in the area and completely preserved both the internal and external look of the building. I think that it's a beautiful and elegant style of preservation - combining the new and the old to preserve the history but also look forward into the future. Walking through the walled city, you sort of feel like you're transported to a time far from today. If there weren't cars next to you, you could probably almost smell the gunpowder in the air. It's hard not to appreciate that something like this still exists in the fast developing Metro Manila. A place that is literally ripped out the pages of a history book, but still makes an effort to be a valuable property in the present. read more

Walking within the walls of Intramuros makes me feel sad and proud at the same time. Sad because here is where Jose Rizal was imprisoned before he died. Proud because there was a Jose Rizal who stood up to tyranny and stood up for the Filipinos. Sad because I do not know where the next Jose Rizal will come. read more

A good way to start off an afternoon in "Old Manila", Intramuros offers cultural insights into Philippine history. A P75 entrance fee is the least that can be asked for to maintain the historical site. I was tempted to try and take a calesa around the place, but I stopped myself when I saw how tiny the horse really was, and wondering how it would even try to bear my weight along with its driver. Opting for a slower foot route, I checked out the old churches Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church; the old architecture had me wondering and daydreaming about what it would have been like to have mass there in Rizal's time. The food joints surrounding Intramuros are near and provide fairly priced good food, so you're never too far away to get your fill. Don't forget to bring an umbrella and some water though! It is a must stop for anyone attempting to tour Manila. read more

Still on US time so not really tracking but decided to try to stay awake and do some sightseeing. Intramuros was a walk back in time with towering walls surrounding cobblestone streets, a church with a bamboo organ and the inevitable souvenir shop. Kind of mind boggling to realize that today's sprawling metropolis started from this relatively small Spanish fort town. read more

Ah Intramuros! I used to visit this place monthly when I had to extent my visa every month. I was always shocked by the contrast here. The walled city is surrounded by a golf course where you see rich people playing golf, but right outside of the gate you see people sleeping on the street. I recommend you to take the Carlos Celdran tour or the Bamboo Bike tour to get the most out of Intramuros and appreciate it's beauty. There is so much lost glory and there is a sadness in the ruins and empty buildings, because it could be so nice. My favority places to go are the Catheral, maestranza and the 4 story filipino craft / antique store. read more

When asked by the many travelers that I meet what they could do while stopping over in Manila, I seem to come up empty handed. Don't get me wrong, I could recommend a million and one things to do, places to eat, bars and clubs to check out, but often, travelers are looking for something cultural to check out to better understand the Philippines. Someone then asked me if I have ever been to Intramuros, and sadly, I couldn't say that I have. I knew I had to change this so when the boyfriend came over to visit, Intramuros was one of the first spots on the list to take him to. I was pleasantly surprised at how well preserved some of the churches and buildings were. You can stroll around the area (preferably in the late afternoon as you might end up dying of a heatstroke!) and retrace the steps of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine National Hero. You can see the heavy influence of the Spaniards and how their colonization affected our architecture, structures, and way of life. It was surprisingly a fun afternoon of walking through the old cobblestone streets of the place that when loosely translated means, within the walls or the walled city. This place was the heart and core of Manila way back when as its structures had endured foreign colonizers, bombs, and everything else that took place within this Ancient Citadel. The afternoon was not only education, but also a great way to get to know Manila for what it really is and what it represents. read more

This place is wonderful. If only the whole town dressed their establishments up to blend in with the rest of Intramuros, this would be five stars easy. Mind you, this is not just one tourist destination. Take your time and explore. A kalesa ride here and there ain't bad either. read more