Manila: City Highlights Day Trip With Fort Santiago Tour

Manila’s rich history and vibrant culture come alive on this City Highlights Day Trip. Explore iconic landmarks like Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Manila Cathedral while learning about the Philippines’ captivating past. With a traditional Filipino lunch and visits to the National Museums, this eight-hour excursion promises an enriching journey for small groups. Seamless transportation and an expert guide ensure a seamless exploration of Manila’s heritage. What secrets await those who venture forth?

Key Points

• An 8-hour Manila City Highlights Day Trip that includes transportation, a driver, and entry to the historic Fort Santiago.
• Tour price starts from $180.56 per group (up to 3 people) with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Itinerary includes photo stops at San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral, a guided tour of Fort Santiago, and visits to various museums and landmarks.
• Highlights include the UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church, the Rizal Shrine at Fort Santiago, and insights into the Philippines’ art, culture, and history.
• Excludes meals (except lunch), other attraction fees, and overtime charges for the driver, and is not suitable for certain participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Manila City Highlights Day Trip offers an eight-hour tour that showcases the rich history and cultural landmarks of the city.

Explore the rich history and cultural landmarks of Manila with an 8-hour city highlights tour.

Priced from $180.56 per group (up to 3 people), the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Booking is available through a reserve now and pay later option.

The tour includes transportation, a driver, and entry to Fort Santiago, along with a guided tour.

Excluded are meals, other attraction fees, and any overtime charges for the driver.

The tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, and specific guidelines must be followed.

Itinerary and Activities

The Manila City Highlights Day Trip takes visitors on an engaging journey through the city’s most significant landmarks and cultural attractions.

It begins with photo stops and visits to the San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral.

Next, guests embark on a guided tour of the historic Fort Santiago, browsing its shops and soaking in its rich history.

After a traditional Filipino lunch, the tour continues at Rizal Park, the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of Natural History.

The optional stop at the Mall of Asia caps off the day.

Historical and Cultural Highlights

What makes the destinations on this Manila City Highlights Day Trip so historically and culturally significant?

The San Agustin Church is the oldest stone church in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Baroque architecture.

The Manila Cathedral, rebuilt multiple times since 1571, features a grand Romanesque façade.

The historic Fort Santiago was once a dungeon but now houses the Rizal Shrine dedicated to the national hero Dr. José Rizal.

These landmarks and museums offer insights into the Philippines’ art, culture, and history, providing an enriching and educational experience for visitors.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This Manila City Highlights Day Trip includes the transportation, driver, and entry to Fort Santiago along with a guided tour.

It excludes meals, except for lunch, and entrance fees to other attractions. An overtime fee of PHP350/hr must be paid to the driver for any time exceeding the included 1 hour of waiting at the pickup location.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, people with pre-existing medical conditions, or those over 70 years old.

Participants should bring a passport or ID card and cash, and aren’t allowed to bring pets, bikes, alcohol, or explosives. Proper casual attire and shoes are required.

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Important Information and Guidelines

Although the Manila City Highlights Day Trip isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, people with pre-existing medical conditions, or those over 70 years old, participants can bring a passport or ID card and cash.

Pets (except assistance dogs), bikes, alcohol, and explosives aren’t allowed. Proper casual attire, including shoes, is required.

The specific pickup and drop-off address must be provided upon booking, and the itinerary is subject to change without prior notice.

The tour includes:

• Transportation and driver

• Entry to Fort Santiago

• Guided tour

• 1 hour of waiting time at pickup location

San Agustin Church

The San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as the oldest stone church in the Philippines.

This Baroque architectural masterpiece was built in the 16th century and has endured through the centuries, witnessing the country’s tumultuous history.

Visitors can admire the intricate carvings, ornate altars, and impressive dome that exemplify Spanish colonial influence.

The church’s centuries-old grandeur provides a glimpse into the Philippines’ rich religious heritage.

Participants in the Manila City Highlights tour will have the opportunity to explore this iconic landmark, learning about its significance and architectural beauty.

Manila Cathedral

After exploring the captivating San Agustin Church, the Manila City Highlights tour takes visitors to another iconic religious landmark, the Manila Cathedral.

Rebuilt multiple times since 1571, the grand Romanesque façade of the cathedral is a testament to its resilience. The cathedral holds significant historical and cultural importance, as it has witnessed key events in the Philippines’ history.

Visitors can admire the cathedral’s architectural details, including:

• Ornate interiors

• Intricate carvings

• Stained glass windows

The Manila Cathedral remains an important place of worship and a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich Catholic heritage.

Fort Santiago

Following the visit to the Manila Cathedral, the tour takes visitors to the historic Fort Santiago.

This 16th-century fortress was once the seat of Spanish colonial power in the Philippines. Guests can explore the dungeons where revolutionary hero José Rizal was imprisoned before his execution.

The guided tour also includes the beautiful gardens and the Rizal Shrine, dedicated to the life and legacy of this national icon.

With its rich history and picturesque setting, Fort Santiago offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past and its fight for independence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Additional Luggage on the Tour?

According to the tour information, travelers can bring additional luggage, but it’s not recommended as the tour involves walking and visiting multiple sites. Excess baggage may be inconvenient and could impact the overall experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Museum Visits?

The tour requires proper casual attire, including shoes. Guests must avoid wearing bare feet when visiting the museums and other attractions. The dress code helps maintain the sites’ respectability and ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.

What Is the Refund Policy for Cancellations?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve their spot and pay nothing today, allowing them flexibility with their travel plans.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to your preferences. The tour operator allows flexibility in adjusting the activities and schedule to meet your interests, though additional fees may apply for any changes made.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

There are no specific discounts mentioned for seniors or students. However, the tour operator may be willing to offer some flexibility on pricing for these groups. It’s best to inquire directly about any potential discounts.

The Sum Up

The Manila City Highlights Day Trip provides an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Manila Cathedral, while also enjoying a traditional Filipino lunch and visiting the National Museums. With transportation included, this comprehensive tour offers a seamless and enriching journey through Manila’s captivating history and stunning sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: