Intramuros in Manila is one of the major sites of the Philippines' colonial period up to the American commonwealth. Though Intramuros' structures were initially built as a defense mechanism, people are now welcome to explore centuries of history within its walls. The new infrastructures that connect Binondo-Intramuros and other developments help not just the Filipinos but also the tourists. Moreover, Intramuros has become one of the must-visit sites in Manila. Intramuros comes with many historical sites and attractions, so here's an Intramuros guide to catching you up on the best things to do when you've come across the city!
Roam around the historical sites
Given the many astounding places to visit, it could take you a whole day to check it all out, so we have narrowed down the best and the most popular tourist spots in Intramuros for you to check out. First Fort Santiago – one of the oldest Hispanic stone fortresses in the Philippines. It is the place where Dr. Jose Rizal was imprisoned before his execution. Next is the Manila Cathedral. Its breathtaking Neo-Romanesque style quickly captured the hearts of the tourists. Manila Cathedral is certainly one of the most important Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. The walled city also has the San Agustin Church, the oldest church in the Philippines. Its medieval style in architecture captures the hearts of many as it perfectly depicts the classic way of life our ancestors lived.
Other tourist attractions include Casa Manila. It is another Instagram-worthy home turned into a museum. There's also Silahis Center, a shop showcasing various products made from wood, shells, and other native materials. Baluarte De San Diego is another attraction that shows the beautiful façade of Intramuros; Light and Sound Museum, a one-hour show about Jose Rizal's story from his early life to his execution. Museo de Intramuros houses about 500 religious artifacts in old churches near and around the Walled City, and last but not least, Bahay Tsinoy. Here you can see the life-sized dioramas of Chinese traders, goldsmiths, and more.
Explore the walled city with bamboo bikes and electric chariots
Not fond of walk trips? Instead of tiring your feet out walking through the walled city, Intramuros gives its tourists an alternative way to explore and roam around! Stroll and marvel at tourist spots in Intramuros, find secret spots and feel the decades pass with a bamboo bike. With bamboo bikes, for as low ask 200 pesos per hour, tourists can get on a guided tour around the significant landmarks of the walled city. Tourists can also choose from the several designs of their bikes. Another option to consider is the electric chariots. These can help you scoot around Intramuros with their 2-wheel automatic balancing equipment that moves according to your body's position. Notable, isn't it? Try one of these to maximize the whole Intramuros tour experience.
Rent a Tranvia
If bikes and scooters aren't your things but you still want to stroll around the city on wheels, you might want to try the latest transport option available in Intramuros, which is the tranvia. Tranvia is patterned after the horse-drawn buses that once plied its roads. A tranvia can fit up to a maximum of 25 people, including the driver. Rates are P3,000 for a four-hour rental and P6,000 for an eight-hour use. There's an additional P750 for every excess hour. The route is limited to areas within Intramuros. Remember that reservations for these should be made no later than five days before your rental. Try it and experience Intramuros on a whole new level!
Take lots of photos
Another Intramuros guide to help you maximize the experience is to take lots of photos and selfies! Take a jumping shot in Baluarte de San Diego to have a view of the Manila Skyline. Or maybe take snapshots against the contemporary graffiti art of Anda Street, or try taking a glam shot with a kalesa in front of Palacio Del Gobernador, whatever that will satisfy your IG feed and make you remember this fun time!
Eat up!
Who wouldn't crave a nice meal after exploring all the tourist spots in Intramuros, right? The place is full of countless historical sites. It is also filled with dozens of Intramuros restaurants that will make everyone complete after a long walk around the city. Intramuros Manila never disappoints our history and sightseeing cravings, but other than these, it's also an excellent place to find the top restaurants in Manila. One of these is Barbara's Heritage Restaurant Intramuros. If you're looking for any Intramuros restaurant with authentic Filipino food to add to your historical day trip, Barbara's is the perfect place to go. Try all of the dishes from their grand buffet while enjoying cultural dance performances. Plus, Barbara's is an ideal place for a romantic date that will give you the best vibe of Intramuros at night.
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