14 Top Tours & Experiences In Luzon (With Reviews & Prices)

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The 14 Best Tours & Experiences in Luzon

Luzon isn’t just the largest island in the Philippines—it’s a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural experiences. Whether you’re into exploring Spanish-era walled cities, hiking among world-famous rice terraces, or sampling authentic Filipino cuisine, Luzon has something for every traveler. Among the top picks, we love the Intramuros Walking Tour for its lively history lessons, and the Batad Guided Tour for a walk through some of the most breathtaking terraced rice fields in the world. These experiences give visitors an authentic taste of Filipino life and history.

If you prefer something more interactive, the Manila Filipino Cooking Class is perfect for food lovers eager to learn local recipes, while the Makati Nightlife Tour offers a vibrant taste of Manila’s after-dark scene. No matter your interest, Luzon’s tours promise a genuine glimpse into the everyday life of Filipinos, away from crowded tourist spots. To help you choose, here’s a detailed look at each top-rated experience.

1. Manila’s Walled City: Intramuros Walking Tour

At number 1 on our list, the Intramuros Walking Tour offers a beautifully detailed journey through Manila’s historic core. For just $35, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours exploring the 16th-century walls, Fort Santiago, and the Rizal Shrine, learning how Manila evolved through Malay, Spanish, American, and Japanese eras. The tour’s highlights include a horse-drawn carriage ride (kalesa), which adds charm and a sense of stepping back in time.

What sets this tour apart is the knowledgeable local guides who bring history alive with engaging stories and humor. Visitors rave about the depth of information, with one saying, “I understood the history a lot better and appreciated Manila’s cultural layers.” It’s perfect for history lovers and those short on time but wanting a comprehensive introduction to Manila’s colonial past. The tour’s value lies in its interactive approach and all-inclusive snacks and water.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded introduction to Intramuros, ideal for history enthusiasts or first-timers wanting a convenient, detailed tour.

2. Batad Guided Tour

Number 2 is the Batad Guided Tour, a six-hour adventure for those eager to hike through spectacular rice terraces with a local, family-connected guide. For $70 per group, up to 15 people, this tour emphasizes authentic interaction—meeting rice farmers, artisan wine makers, and witnessing rice processing by hand. The guide’s family resides right at the terraces, offering an insider’s view that many visitors find priceless.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to customize your hike from 1 to 5 hours, making it accessible for different fitness levels. The itinerary includes visits to Banaue and Batad Rice Terraces, with highlights like Tappiya Waterfall and the Snake River. Reviewers love the guide Miller, describing him as “knowledgeable, funny, and kind,” and many mention how entering a traditional house made the experience unforgettable.

Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers wanting a personal, in-depth look at famous rice terraces, combined with cultural exchanges.

3. Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites

Number 3 is the Filipino Cooking Class in Makati, offering 2 hours of hands-on fun for $60 per person. Held in a cozy, family-friendly setting, this experience introduces you to Meryenda—Filipino snacks—like noodle dishes, spring rolls, and sweet treats. The class is led by Chyl, a patient and engaging host, who guides you through the recipes, emphasizing simple ingredients and techniques.

What makes this experience special is the opportunity to learn authentic recipes that you can recreate at home, plus the chance to enjoy your homemade dishes afterward. Reviewers mention how Chyl’s warm personality and detailed instructions make the class memorable. It’s ideal for foodies, families, or anyone wanting a taste of Filipino culinary traditions. The price reflects a good value considering the quality and quantity of food prepared.

Bottom Line: A fun, interactive way to bring home Filipino flavors with expert guidance and a personal touch.

4. Makati: Music Clubs, Rooftops, and Go Go Bars Nightlife Tour

Number 4 offers an electric nightlife experience for just $23.99 over 4.5 hours. This tour showcases Makati’s live music venues, rooftop bars, and vibrant clubs, starting with a panoramic view from the Antidote rooftop. You’ll get VIP access, skip lines, and enjoy drinks along the way. The itinerary includes visits to trendy spots like Bourbon New Orleans PH and local street food markets.

Vivid descriptions from travelers highlight the lively atmosphere and friendly guides, with one saying, “I had an exceptional tour, and the places for pictures were fantastic.” It suits those who love to explore nightlife and meet fellow travelers in a relaxed setting. The tour’s affordability and focus on local bars with unique aesthetics make it a good pick for night owls or first-time visitors wanting to experience Manila’s after-dark scene without the hassle of planning.

Bottom Line: An affordable, lively tour perfect for night lovers seeking a guided introduction to Makati’s bar scene.

5. The Hidden Gems of Manila Guided Tour

Number 5 is a 2-hour walk through Manila’s less touristy areas, costing $60. This tour dives into local life, exploring alleys, markets, and old buildings like Divisoria and Binondo. The guide Floyd brings energy and deep knowledge, sharing stories at spots like Tondo’s wet market and historic churches. It’s a genuine look at everyday Filipino life, away from the usual tourist routes.

Reviewers praise its authenticity, with one calling Floyd “exceptional,” and noting the opportunity to shop like locals at affordable markets. It’s best suited for travelers who want a culture and don’t mind walking through lively neighborhoods. The tour’s strength is in its intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Bottom Line: A vivid, authentic glimpse of Manila’s daily life, ideal for curious travelers eager to see the city beyond the guidebooks.

6. Small-Group Weekend Hiking Tour to Banaue-Ifugao from Manila

Number 6 covers a 4-day trek through Banaue and Ifugao, priced at $270 per person. It’s a comprehensive tour with overnight bus transport, village stays, and guided hikes. The focus is on scenic vistas, traditional villages, and some of the world’s most iconic rice terraces. It’s perfect for adventurous hikers eager to experience rural life and stunning landscapes over a long weekend.

Guides like Jonathan get high praise for their friendliness and regional knowledge. Reviewers mention how traveling with a small group makes the experience even more personal, and the mix of hiking, cultural visits, and scenic views creates a memorable trip. Note that food isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting an immersive, multi-day experience in one of the Philippines’ most beautiful regions.

7. Makati Street Food Experience ending with a Rooftop Bar

In at number 7, this 3-hour food tour ($65) combines local street eats with a relaxed rooftop finale. Starting at Hott Asia Bazaar, you’ll sample dishes like sisig, balut, and kwek-kwek, then move to the Filling Station diner for desserts, ending at the Antidote rooftop bar. This tour is great for food lovers who want a taste of Manila’s street culture with a stylish twist.

Vivid reviews highlight the fun atmosphere and delicious food, with one saying, “Make sure you leave room because there is so much food!” It’s perfect for those who want a fun, casual introduction to Filipino street food and nightlife in a short time.

Bottom Line: A tasty, lively tour combining street food with a scenic rooftop experience, perfect for those wanting a casual, fun night out.

8. Intramuros Sunset Tours by Bambike

Number 8 offers a unique way to explore Intramuros on bamboo bicycles for $37. During this 3-hour sunset tour, you’ll visit Casa Manila, the city gates, and historic plazas, with small-group intimacy capped at 15 people. The bamboo bikes allow a relaxed pace and an eco-friendly experience, while the roof terrace drinks provide a perfect view of the sunset.

Reviews mention guides being “friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable,” making history come alive as you pedal through the old city. The tour suits travelers who want a leisurely, eco-conscious experience with a focus on scenic views and local architecture. The sunset timing makes it ideal for photos and a peaceful end to your day.

Bottom Line: A charming and eco-friendly way to see Manila’s historic sights at sunset, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

9. Private Filipino Cooking Class in a Local Manila Home

Number 9 is a personalized culinary experience costing $90 per person. In a private Manila home, you’ll learn three traditional Filipino dishes directly from a local chef. It’s a hands-on experience, involving ingredient picking from the garden, with undivided attention from your host.

Reviewers praise Isi’s detailed teaching and warm hospitality, noting the authenticity of the dishes and the chance to sit down to enjoy your creations. This experience is ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into Filipino cuisine in an intimate setting, and it offers great value for those looking for a personalized cultural experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies seeking an authentic, private cooking experience that ends with a delicious meal.

10. Manila: Binondo Walking Tour (Oldest Chinatown)

Coming in at number 10, this 2-hour Binondo Chinatown tour costs $55 and explores the Philippines’ oldest Chinatown. Your guide will introduce you to Chinese-influenced architecture, markets, and street food that have been blending cultures for centuries. You’ll learn about the fusion of Filipino and Chinese traditions and sample street foods that tell stories of migration and adaptation.

Testimonies mention how lively and flavorful the streets are, with guides who are “very knowledgeable” about the cultural mix. The tour is ideal for food lovers and those curious about Asian-Filipino fusion. It’s a compact, immersive way to understand Manila’s multicultural roots.

Bottom Line: A flavorful journey through Chinese-Filipino history, perfect for foodies and cultural explorers alike.

11. Manila Intramuros Walking Tour with Local Guide

Number 11 is a 2-3 hour comprehensive walk through Intramuros, costing $55. Your guide will cover iconic landmarks like the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and Casa Manila, emphasizing historical context and architectural details. The tour is especially praised for the guide’s storytelling and personalized attention, making history accessible and engaging.

Reviews highlight how the guide’s knowledge enriches the experience, with one saying, “We learned so much about Filipino history.” This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, detailed introduction to Intramuros, with the option to focus on specific sites of interest.

Bottom Line: A detailed and flexible tour for history lovers wanting a thorough introduction to Manila’s colonial architecture.

12. Manila Hidden Gems with Local Guide

Number 12 focuses on offbeat Manila neighborhoods like Tondo and Chinatown for just $55. You’ll walk through lively streets, shop at local markets, and explore less touristy landmarks, guided by a local who knows the ins and outs of the city’s authentic side. The tour emphasizes local life, with visits to markets, old buildings, and alleyways.

Reviewers appreciate the real Filipino experience, with one noting, “We saw all that condensed into a pleasant 2-hour stroll.” Suitable for adventurous travelers eager to see the city’s true character beyond popular sites.

Bottom Line: Perfect for culturally curious travelers wanting to experience everyday Filipino life firsthand.

13. Small-Group Weekend Hiking Tour to Banaue-Ifugao from Manila

Number 13 is a 4-day trek through Banaue and Ifugao, priced at $270. This small-group tour includes overnight bus travel, village stays, and guided hikes of some of the world’s most famous rice terraces. Highlights include Cambulo, Batad, and Bangaan villages, with opportunities to enjoy scenic vistas and traditional life.

Travelers praise the expert guides and authentic experiences—from visiting rice farmers to exploring waterfalls. It’s suited for fit travelers looking for a multi-day adventure that combines outdoor activity with culture.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive multi-day trek through the rice terraces and rural villages.

14. Makati “Pub Crawl & Bar Hopping” Experience

Finally, number 14 offers a 3-hour pub crawl through Makati’s trendiest spots for $65. Starting at the Spirits Library, you’ll visit lively bars like Buccaneers Rum & Kitchen and Kampai, ending at the I’M Hotel rooftop bar. Every venue offers exclusive drink specials and free entry, with guides sharing local stories and tips.

Reviewers note the friendly guides and the chance to discover hidden bars the casual traveler might miss. This tour is ideal for social travelers who want to experience Makati’s nightlife in an organized, fun way.

Bottom Line: A lively, social experience ideal for those wanting a night out with local drinks and stories.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Luzon

When selecting your tour, consider your interests, fitness level, and available time. For history lovers, the Intramuros walking tours and Bambike sunset tour provide immersive cultural stories and scenic rides. Foodies might prefer the Filipino cooking classes or the street food experience, which offer both taste and cultural insight. Adventure travelers should look at the Batad rice terraces trek or the multi-day Banaue hike for a physically engaging experience.

Booking early is advisable for popular tours, especially during peak seasons. Check for inclusions like transportation, meals, or guide expertise to ensure you get the experience that best matches your expectations.

Final Thoughts

Luzon offers a diverse array of tours that go far beyond typical sightseeing. Whether you want to walk through Manila’s storied past, trek among terraced rice fields, or learn to cook Filipino dishes, there’s something for you. For a balanced mix of history, culture, and adventure, consider the Intramuros Walking Tour or the Batad Guided Tour—both offer authentic experiences with excellent reviews. For food lovers, the Filipino Cooking Class provides hands-on fun, while the Nightlife Tours make for lively evenings out.

Remember, these experiences fill up quickly, so planning and booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out. Luzon’s tours promise a deeper understanding of Filipino life, and with so many options, you’re sure to find an experience that makes your trip unforgettable.