Manila: Rich History of Intramuros Private Tour

Dive into the captivating history of Intramuros, Manila’s walled city, on this private tour. Guests will explore iconic landmarks, including the impressive Fort Santiago and the ornate Manila Cathedral. The tour also features a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through the district’s cobblestone streets, offering a unique perspective on this well-preserved remnant of the city’s Spanish colonial past. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides an immersive experience that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Intramuros.

Key Points

• A 4-hour private tour exploring the historic Intramuros district in Manila, including visits to iconic landmarks like Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church.
• The tour offers a rundown of Manila’s rich Spanish colonial heritage, showcasing the architectural beauty and cultural significance of Intramuros.
• Highlights include a guided walkthrough of Fort Santiago, visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobblestone streets.
• The tour is available in English, with flexible cancellation policies and an option to pay later, making it accessible for travelers.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Makati City and Bay Area, providing a convenient and seamless experience for participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private tour, titled "Manila: Rich History of Intramuros Private Tour," takes visitors on a 4-hour exploration of the historic Intramuros district in Manila.

Priced from $99.70 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Makati City and the Bay Area.

Priced from $99.70 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Makati City and the Bay Area.

The experience is offered in English and boasts a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to receive a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

To secure a spot, visitors can conveniently reserve their place now and pay later, avoiding any upfront payment.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights a comprehensive exploration of Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled city.

Guests will start with a guided tour of Fort Santiago, a well-preserved Spanish fortress. Next, they’ll visit the iconic Manila Cathedral and the San Agustin Church, two architectural gems.

The tour then takes them to Casa Manila, a reconstructed 19th-century mansion, and Plaza de Roma, the central square.

Explore the defensive walls at Baluarte de San Diego and Baluarte de San Francisco de Dilao.

The experience culminates with a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through Intramuros’ cobblestone streets and a visit to the serene Rizal Park.

Fort Santiago Exploration

Fort Santiago serves as the starting point for the Intramuros tour. Visitors embark on a guided exploration of this historic fortress, once the seat of Spanish colonial rule.

The tour highlights:

• Guided walkthrough of the fort’s strategic location and impressive architecture

• Visits to notable landmarks like the Rizal Shrine, showcasing the life and legacy of the national hero

• Exploration of the dungeon and courtyard, providing insights into the fort’s tumultuous past

• Learning about the fort’s role in shaping Manila’s history, from the Spanish era to the Philippine Revolution

• Scenic views from the fort’s ramparts overlooking the Pasig River and Manila Bay.

Manila Cathedral Visit

After exploring the historic Fort Santiago, the tour then proceeds to the iconic Manila Cathedral.

Towering over the Intramuros district, this magnificent cathedral stands as a testament to the Philippines’ Catholic heritage. Guests are guided through the cathedral’s opulent interiors, admiring the intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and the impressive pipe organ.

Towering over Intramuros, this magnificent cathedral reflects the Philippines’ Catholic heritage, with opulent interiors and intricate artistry.

The guide provides insights into the cathedral’s history, dating back to the 16th century, and explains its significance as the seat of the Manila archdiocese.

This stop offers a chance to immerse in the country’s deep-rooted religious traditions.

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San Agustin Church Tour

Following the guided tour of the magnificent Manila Cathedral, the group then proceeds to the nearby San Agustin Church.

This 16th-century church is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its Baroque architecture and intricate interiors.

The tour guide provides insights into the church’s rich history, including:

• Its construction in 1586 by Spanish Augustinian friars

• The church’s survival through numerous earthquakes and fires

• The impressive vaulted ceilings, ornate altars, and antique religious artwork

• The church’s role as a hub for Philippine culture and religious traditions

• The opportunity to explore the adjacent museum and cloister gardens.

Casa Manila Guided Tour

From the San Agustin Church, the tour group then proceeds to Casa Manila, a meticulously restored 19th-century Spanish colonial house that offers a glimpse into the lifestyles of the Filipino elite during the Spanish era.

Under the guidance of the knowledgeable tour guide, visitors explore the beautifully preserved interiors, admiring the intricate woodcarvings, antique furniture, and period décor.

The tour provides insight into the architectural design, social customs, and daily lives of the affluent classes during the Spanish colonial period.

The 30-minute visit to Casa Manila offers a fascinating look back in time and a deeper understanding of Intramuros’ rich historical heritage.

Baluarte De San Diego and San Francisco De Dilao Sightseeing

As the private tour continues, visitors are led to the impressive Baluarte de San Diego and Baluarte de San Francisco de Dilao – two of the well-preserved bastions that once formed part of Intramuros’ formidable defense system.

The guides provide insightful commentary on the historical significance of these structures:

• Baluarte de San Diego: A pentagon-shaped bastion that served as a strategic lookout point and artillery platform

• Baluarte de San Francisco de Dilao: An elongated bastion that protected the eastern flank of Intramuros

Visitors learn about the architectural design, construction techniques, and role these bastions played in the city’s fortifications.

They’ve the opportunity to explore the bastions’ exteriors and imagine the city’s past as a walled colonial settlement.

The tour offers a glimpse into Manila’s rich military history and the ingenuity of its Spanish-era engineers.

Rizal Park and Kalesa Ride

After exploring the impressive defense bastions, the private tour then ventures to Rizal Park, a sprawling urban green space that serves as a fitting finale to the Intramuros exploration.

Visitors can freely stroll through the park, discovering its diverse attractions like the grand Rizal Monument, the Japanese Garden, and the Planetarium.

The highlight of this segment is the horse-drawn carriage ride, known as "Kalesa," which takes guests on a leisurely and romantic journey through Intramuros’ cobblestone streets.

This unique experience provides a charming and nostalgic way to cap off the immersive historical tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people over 95 years old. However, the guides are knowledgeable and accommodating, and the tour can be customized to meet participants’ needs within the given limitations.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour price does not include any food or beverages. Alcoholic drinks are not allowed on the tour.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not offer specific discounts for students or seniors. However, the company may consider providing customized pricing or discounts upon request, depending on the group size and special needs. Interested customers should inquire about any available offers.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary to fit your interests. The tour company offers a private tour, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences and focus on the sights that interest you most.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Participants are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothes that allow for easy movement, as the tour involves walking through historic sites. Formal attire is not required.

The Sum Up

The "Manila: Rich History of Intramuros Private Tour" offers a comprehensive exploration of Intramuros’ iconic landmarks and a unique horse-drawn carriage ride. With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to pay later, this tour provides a hassle-free way to take in Manila’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: