Manila: Highlights Walking Tour With a Guide

Exploring Manila’s rich history has never been easier. The "Highlights Walking Tour with a Guide" offers a captivating 3-hour exploration of the city’s iconic sites. From the historic Manila Cathedral, you’ll venture into the walled city of Intramuros, uncover the secrets of the National Museum of Natural History, and marvel at the architectural grandeur of the San Agustin Church. With personalized insights into Manila’s colonial past and the Filipino quest for independence, this tour promises an immersive journey that might just leave you craving more.

Key Points

• This 3-hour walking tour provides an in-depth exploration of Manila’s historic Intramuros district and its key landmarks, including the National Museum of Natural History.
• The tour offers a guided experience led by an expert guide, who provides insights into Manila’s colonial past and the Filipino fight for independence.
• Participants can customize the tour to their preferences, spending more time at certain sites or exploring additional areas of interest.
• The tour includes a tasting of the famous Filipino dessert, Halo-halo, at the end of the experience.
• The tour starts and ends at the iconic 655 Manila Cathedral, a historic Baroque-style landmark that serves as an ideal starting point for the exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This walking tour in Manila is titled "Manila: Highlights Walking Tour with a Guide" and is priced from $76.13 per person.

It lasts 3 hours and is available in English and Spanish. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour starts at the Manila Cathedral and includes guided visits to Intramuros, the National Museum of Natural History, San Agustin Church, a WWII memorial, and Casa Manila, ending back at the main starting point.

Itinerary Highlights

The walking tour begins at the 655 Manila Cathedral, where visitors embark on a guided exploration of Intramuros, the historic walled city.

Next, they visit the National Museum of Natural History, a fascinating repository of the Philippines’ natural heritage.

The tour continues to the iconic San Agustin Church, the sole surviving structure from the seven churches built within Intramuros.

Afterwards, the group pays respects at a WWII memorial before discovering the colonial-era Casa Manila.

The tour concludes back at the 655 Manila Cathedral, the starting point.

Historical Insights

As visitors embark on this walking tour, they’ll explore Manila’s colonial past, which spans over 300 years of Spanish colonization.

They’ll visit the San Agustin Church, the only surviving church among seven built within Intramuros.

The tour also delves into the Filipino fight for independence, including significant events like the Battle of Manila.

Travelers will discover a history museum detailing Manila’s past with the Catholic Church.

Throughout the tour, the guide’s expertise will uncover hidden gems and other highlighted spots, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history.

Customization and Experience

Visitors can expect a private and exclusive tour with no other participants, allowing them to tailor the experience to their personal preferences.

They’ll benefit from the guide’s expertise to uncover hidden gems and other highlighted spots. Guests can modify the tour to suit their interests, whether they want to spend more time at certain sites or explore additional areas.

At the end of the tour, they’ll get to savor the famous Filipino dessert, Halo-halo, for a taste of the local culture.

This customized approach ensures an engaging and memorable experience in Manila.

More Great Tours Nearby

Starting Point: 655 Manila Cathedral

The walking tour commences at the iconic 655 Manila Cathedral, a historic landmark that serves as the spiritual heart of the city.

This baroque-style cathedral dates back to the 16th century and is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Visitors can admire its distinctive architecture, including massive stone walls, intricate carvings, and grand arches.

The cathedral’s central location makes it an ideal starting point to explore the nearby Intramuros district, the walled historic core of Manila.

From here, the guided tour will navigate through the city’s colonial past and uncover its most significant landmarks.

Intramuros

Intramuros, the walled historic core of Manila, remains a captivating testament to the city’s colonial past.

Visitors will explore the stone fortifications, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old structures that once housed the Spanish elite. The iconic San Agustin Church, the only surviving church among seven built within Intramuros, stands as an architectural gem.

Visitors can explore Intramuros’ stone fortifications, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old structures that housed the Spanish elite. The iconic San Agustin Church stands as an architectural gem.

Guests will learn about the Filipino fight for independence and significant events like the Battle of Manila that took place within these walls.

Intramuros offers a glimpse into Manila’s storied history, allowing travelers to step back in time and enjoy the city’s rich heritage.

National Museum of Natural History, Manila

After exploring the historic Intramuros, the tour takes visitors to the National Museum of Natural History, Manila.

This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the Philippines’ diverse natural heritage.

Visitors can expect to:

• Discover interactive exhibits showcasing the country’s unique flora and fauna.

• Learn about the geology and biodiversity of the Philippine archipelago.

• Marvel at the museum’s impressive collection of fossils and preserved specimens.

• Explore the museum’s ethnographic displays highlighting traditional Filipino culture and craftsmanship.

• Enjoy the serene indoor gardens and outdoor spaces within the museum complex.

San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church stands as a testament to Manila’s rich colonial history. This baroque-style church, dating back to the 16th century, is the only surviving church among the seven originally built within the walls of Intramuros.

Visitors can admire its impressive façade, intricate woodcarvings, and stunning interiors adorned with religious artworks. The church’s longevity is a remarkable feat, having withstood numerous earthquakes and wars.

Exploring this religious landmark offers insights into the profound influence of Catholicism in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era. It’s a must-see stop on the Manila highlights walking tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no specific dress code for this tour. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to fully enjoy the sightseeing experience. The tour takes place outdoors, so dressing for the weather is advisable.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to avoid consuming anything that may distract from the guided experience or disrupt the group. The tour includes a taste of a local dessert at the end.

Are There Any Safety Precautions for the Tour?

The tour company takes safety precautions seriously. They provide safety guidelines, recommend appropriate attire, and ensure the tour route avoids any high-risk areas. Participants are advised to stay with the group and follow the guide’s instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour. However, it’s important to check with the guide beforehand and respect any restrictions, particularly in sensitive areas or historical sites. The guide can provide guidance on appropriate photography etiquette.

Is the Tour Wheelchair-Friendly Throughout?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair-accessible throughout. The itinerary includes visits to wheelchair-friendly sites, and the guide can provide any necessary assistance to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.

The Sum Up

The "Highlights Walking Tour with a Guide" offers a captivating exploration of Manila’s rich history. Visitors can enjoy the city’s iconic sites, from the Manila Cathedral to the San Agustin Church, while gaining personalized insights into the Philippines’ colonial past and independence movement. The tour’s flexibility and the chance to savor the famous Halo-halo dessert make it an engaging and memorable experience for anyone seeking to uncover Manila’s vibrant cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: