Manila, the capital city of the Philippines is one of the most diverse and interesting places in the world. If you love shopping, it’s one of the best destinations in Asia. The city’s tourist industry has also grown significantly due to its historical buildings from the Spanish colonial era to modern casinos and resorts. Take a look at a few attractions and tours you might be interested in:
Angono Caves (Arts and Heritage Tour):
This tour goes deep into Angono Caves, which contain the oldest cave art in the Philippines. The cave art dates as far back as 3,000 B.C.! If you are an art enthusiast, this is a must-see attraction. Plus, the tour first swings by the modern Nemiranda Arthouse. Nemi Miranda is a master painter, and one of the Philippines most famous artists. The tour is about 8 hours, but don’t worry—lunch is provided!
Intramuros:
Intramuros is the epicenter of culture, and the oldest district in Manila. Intramuros has a plethora of buildings to choose from, so if you love architecture, this is the place for you.
You won’t want to miss out on San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral. In fact, the Manila Cathedral is still operational, and is the seat of the Catholic Archbishop of Manila! If you like military structures, be sure to stop by Fort Santiago. Fort Santiago is a Spanish citadel that held the Philippines’ national hero, Jose Rizal, before he was executed in 1896. Rizal supported peace and was a revolutionist who helped end Spanish rule in the country.
Corregidor Island Tour:
If you are a World War II buff, be sure to stop at this memorial to both Filipino and American soldiers. The tour recreates wartime events and stops at Manila’s main memorial sites: The Spanish Lighthouse, The Pacific War Memorial, and the Filipino Heroes Memorial. You’ll be transported back to the era, and if you take a guided tour you’ll get to ride in a street car from that era called a tramvia.
Pagsanjan Falls:
If you want to venture out into the wild, try a tour of Pagsanjan Falls.
Pagsanjan is just a few hours away from Manilla. Most tourists take a boat ride with skilled canoeists who know how to navigate through around difficult currents and rocks! The falls are 300 feet in height, and covered with exotic vegetation, birds, and insects. There is a cave behind the falls, and some tourists like to take a bamboo raft through the cave!
