Manila: Old and New City Tour with Rizal Park

Exploring Manila in one day offers a fascinating blend of the country’s colonial history and vibrant modern life. This guided tour from Gladex Travel and Tours provides a balanced look at the city’s iconic landmarks and contemporary highlights, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time.

What we love most? The chance to see historic sites like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, the opportunity to learn about José Rizal, the national hero, and the excitement of experiencing Manila’s bustling financial district and shopping at Mall of Asia.

One thing to consider is that some museums might be closed on Mondays, so planning around that can help maximize your experience. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown without sacrificing authenticity, and it suits those interested in both history and modern city life.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covering historic Intramuros and modern Makati.
• In-depth visits to Rizal Park, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church.
• Visit to Makati District offers a glimpse of Manila’s financial hub.
• Shopping at Mall of Asia provides a taste of Filipino consumer culture.
• Includes cultural and historical insights from guides with local expertise.
• Flexible booking with pay-later options and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Manila: Old and New City Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Manila, blending history with the contemporary pulse of the city. For $112 per person, it provides a curated experience that covers the major sights with the convenience of a guided group. The tour is designed to give a sense of Manila’s layered identity—its colonial past, its symbolic heroes, and its modern economic engine.

A highlight is the drive-by of Rizal Park, one of the most iconic public spaces in the Philippines, dedicated to Dr. José Rizal, the country’s national hero. The tour then takes you into the heart of Intramuros, where Fort Santiago tells stories of Spanish conquest and colonial rule. The Dungeons within the fort offer a glimpse into the turbulent past, with some reviews noting that exploring the fort’s old walls and underground chambers makes history feel surprisingly alive.

Following this, you visit the Jose Rizal Museum, which is packed with memorabilia and exhibits about Rizal’s life and sacrifice. Reviewers have mentioned how “the museum helped clarify Rizal’s importance to Filipino identity,” making it an educational highlight.

The Charm of San Agustin Church and Casa Manila

Next on the itinerary is San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its intricate baroque architecture and peaceful atmosphere stand out amid Manila’s bustling streets. Visitors often appreciate the chance to step inside and feel transported to another era. The church’s age (the oldest stone church in the Philippines) adds a layer of historical gravitas, and a photo stop here is a must.

Adjacent to San Agustin is Casa Manila, a museum that showcases colonial-era Filipino lifestyle through period furniture, decor, and recreations. While some reviews note that Casa Manila can get crowded, the detailed displays help paint a vivid picture of the past.

From History to Modernity: Makati and Mall of Asia

Transitioning from history to modernity, the tour includes a running tour of the Makati Business District. Here, you’ll see towering skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and upscale shopping malls, offering a stark contrast to the colonial sites. The guide will point out the city’s economic significance and highlight notable landmarks, giving insight into Manila’s role as Southeast Asia’s financial hub.

The Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in Asia, caps off the trip. As a shopper’s paradise, it caters to all tastes—luxury brands, local artisans, and entertainment options. Visitors often comment on how “the scale of the mall is mind-boggling,” and it’s a perfect spot to relax and observe contemporary Filipino consumer culture.

The American War Memorial

Before wrapping up, the tour visits the American War Memorial, a peaceful site housing thousands of graves from World War II. It’s a somber but important reminder of Manila’s wartime history, with some reviews mentioning the respectful atmosphere and beautifully maintained grounds.

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Logistics and Practical Details

The tour includes transportation from select pickup points in Alabang, Makati, Manila, and Ortigas, making it convenient for travelers staying in these areas. The guided experience lasts several hours, carefully balancing time at each site without feeling rushed.

Admission to Fort Santiago, Rizal Museum, and San Agustin Church are included, but meals and personal expenses are not, so planning ahead for snacks or lunch is recommended. The tour operates in Tagalog, which might be important for non-Filipino speakers to note unless they’re comfortable with the language.

Booking is flexible; you can reserve and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This ease of booking adds peace of mind, especially in unpredictable travel circumstances.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Comprehensive Coverage: From colonial forts to modern business districts, you get a broad yet detailed glimpse of Manila.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting key sites like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church offers tangible connections to Filipino history.
• Balanced Pace: The mix of walking and driving caters to various energy levels and provides flexibility.
• Local Insights: Guides with local expertise enhance the experience, sharing stories and context often missed in self-guided tours.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an efficient yet meaningful introduction to Manila. It suits those interested in history, architecture, and contemporary city life without the hassle of planning multiple activities. Travelers with limited time will appreciate how much ground is covered, and budget-conscious visitors will find the price reasonable considering the inclusions.

However, if you prefer exploring at your own pace or have specific interests like arts or food, you might find this tour a bit structured. Still, its value lies in giving a broad, well-informed overview that sets the stage for deeper exploration later.

Final Thoughts

The Manila: Old and New City Tour offers a practical way to see the city’s highlights without missing out on its essential stories. It manages to blend the historic with the modern, giving a layered perspective of Manila’s complex identity. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it represents good value for travelers eager to understand the city’s soul.

This tour works best for those who want a structured, insightful introduction to Manila’s past and present—whether they’re travelers with limited time, history buffs, or first-timers keen to get acquainted. It’s a solid choice to start your journey in the Philippines’ bustling capital.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation, with pickups in Alabang, Makati, Manila, and Ortigas.

What sites are included in the visit?
The tour covers Rizal Park, Fort Santiago (including The Dungeons and Rizal Museum), San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, the Makati Business District, Mall of Asia, and the American War Memorial.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
While the main sites’ entrance fees are included, meals and personal expenses are not covered and should be budgeted separately.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in Tagalog, so consider this if you’re not familiar with the language or bring a translation app.

How long does the tour last?
The duration isn’t explicitly stated, but based on the itinerary, it’s a full-day experience, allowing for a comprehensive sightseeing experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, given the balance of walking and driving, it’s suitable for families or older travelers, provided they are comfortable with some walking at sites like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.

You can check availability for your dates here: