Manila: Old Manila Intramuros Area Walking Tour

Uncover the rich history and cultural legacy of Manila’s Intramuros district on this captivating walking tour. Stroll through the walled city’s iconic landmarks, from the imposing Fort Santiago to the towering Manila Cathedral. Explore the region’s colonial past and witness the resilience of the Filipino people. With an expert guide by your side, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this vibrant urban oasis and its enduring significance within the Philippines’ storied past.

Key Points

• This 3.5-hour walking tour explores the historic Intramuros district in Old Manila, featuring key sites like Fort Santiago, Rizal Shrine, and Manila Cathedral.
• The tour includes optional transportation options like tranvia or kalesa, and admission tickets to major attractions are provided.
• Visitors can learn about the city’s colonial history and appreciate the neo-Baroque and neo-Romanesque architectural styles.
• The tour combines exploration of historic structures with insights into the resilience and cultural spirit of the Filipino people.
• With a 4.7/5 rating based on 15 reviews, the tour is highly rated for its knowledgeable guides and informative experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The activity on offer is an Old Manila Intramuros Area Walking Tour. Priced from $30.82 per person, this 3.5-hour tour allows visitors to explore the heart of Old Manila.

Enjoy the heart of Old Manila with this 3.5-hour walking tour priced at $30.82 per person.

The tour includes entry to key locations like Fort Santiago, the Rizal Shrine, Manila Cathedral, and Casa Manila. An optional tranvia or kalesa ride is also included.

The tour features a live English-speaking guide and refreshments. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available, and travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

With approximately 6,000 steps involved, the tour isn’t suitable for certain visitors.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with an exploration of Intramuros, the historic heart of Old Manila. Visitors first stop at Fort Santiago, the former Spanish fortress and prison, to learn about its colonial history and visit the Rizal Shrine. Next, they head to the magnificent Manila Cathedral, admiring its Neo-Baroque architecture. The tour then continues to Casa Manila, a restored 19th-century house showcasing Filipino colonial lifestyle. Optional stops include the Memorare Manila 1945 monument and the San Agustin Church. Throughout the tour, travelers can enjoy a Kalesa or Tranvia ride, seeing the city’s past.

| Key Locations | Duration |

| — | — |

| Fort Santiago | 1 hour |

| Rizal Shrine | 30 minutes |

| Manila Cathedral | 20 minutes |

| Casa Manila | 30 minutes |

Key Locations

Fort Santiago, the former Spanish fortress and prison, serves as the first stop on the tour. Visitors can explore its historic structures and learn about its role in the country’s colonial past.

Next, the group visits the Rizal Shrine, honoring the life and legacy of the national hero.

The iconic Manila Cathedral, with its impressive neo-Romanesque architecture, is another highlight.

Lastly, the tour includes Casa Manila, a museum that recreates a 19th-century Filipino household, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the era.

1. Fort Santiago

2. Rizal Shrine

3. Manila Cathedral

4. Casa Manila

Colonial History, World War II, and 19th-Century Filipino Living

Intramuros’ layered history unfolds as the walking tour progresses.

Explore the colonial era, when the district housed the seat of Spanish power in the Philippines. Witness remnants of World War II’s devastation at the Memorare Manila 1945 monument.

Explore Casa Manila, a meticulously reconstructed 19th-century residence, offering a glimpse into the Filipino elite’s lifestyle.

Through the guide’s narration, uncover how this walled city withstood the test of time, weathering foreign occupation and armed conflict.

The tour weaves together Intramuros’ multifaceted past, blending the grandeur of colonial architecture with the resilience of the Filipino spirit.

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Tour Features

Designed to enhance the visitor experience, the walking tour features a live English-speaking guide who brings Intramuros’ storied past to life.

The tour includes:

1. Admission tickets to Fort Santiago, the Rizal Shrine, and the Casa Manila Museum, providing access to key historical sites.

2. Refreshments to keep travelers energized during the 3.5-hour exploration.

3. An optional Kalesa or Tranvia ride, offering a glimpse into 19th-century transportation.

4. Approximately 6,000 steps, ensuring an immersive experience and a chance to stay active during the tour.

Customer Feedback

According to the reviews, travelers have been overwhelmingly positive about the walking tour of Old Manila’s Intramuros.

With an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 15 reviews, the tour has exceeded many visitors’ expectations. Highlights include a knowledgeable and entertaining guide, an informative exploration of the historic sites, and an overall excellent experience.

One traveler, Christopher, described it as "the biggest highlight of my trip," while Giancarlo praised the "knowledgeable and funny guide."

Another guest, Michele, found the tour to be "informative." The feedback suggests this walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Old Manila.

Important Information

The meeting point for the walking tour may vary depending on whether participants have booked a private or shared group tour.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, those with respiratory issues, visually impaired individuals, or people over 95 years old. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

Prohibited items include pets, smoking, professional cameras, alcohol, ripped clothing, and noise-making activities.

The tour involves approximately 6,000 steps, so participants should be prepared for an active experience.

The tour features:

1. Live English-speaking guide

2. Entry tickets for key sites

3. Refreshments provided

4. Private group option available

Meeting Point Variations

The meeting point for the walking tour varies depending on whether participants have booked a private or shared group tour.

For private tours, the meeting point is typically at the customer’s hotel or an agreed-upon location within the Intramuros area. This allows for a more personalized experience and flexibility in starting the tour.

For shared group tours, the meeting point is usually a central location, such as the entrance to Fort Santiago or a nearby landmark. This ensures that all participants can easily gather before embarking on the comprehensive Intramuros exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

Based on the details provided, the tour may not be the most suitable for families with young children. The length, walking distance, and certain restrictions suggest it could be challenging for young kids to fully enjoy the experience.

Can I Bring My Camera to Take Photos During the Tour?

While the tour doesn’t allow professional cameras, you can bring a regular camera to capture the historic sights. Just be mindful of not disrupting the tour experience for others.

What Is the Dress Code for the Walking Tour?

Casual and comfortable attire is recommended for the walking tour. Participants should wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves approximately 6,000 steps. The tour provider prohibits ripped clothing, so guests should dress appropriately for the activity.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of extending the tour duration. The tour is listed as 3.5 hours long, and the overview doesn’t indicate any option to add more time. The itinerary seems fixed based on the information provided.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to meet one’s preferences. Travelers can opt to extend the duration, include or exclude certain sites, and even request a private tour to tailor the experience to their interests.

The Sum Up

The Old Manila Intramuros Area Walking Tour provides an immersive journey through the historical heart of the city. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, discover the colonial past, and gain insights into the resilience of the Filipino people. With a knowledgeable guide, optional vintage transportation, and positive customer reviews, this tour offers an enriching exploration of Manila’s rich heritage in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: