Visiting the capital of the Philippines? Here’s the perfect itinerary to make the most of 2 days in Manila!

If you are visiting the Philippines as a tourist, chances are you coming to visit the white sand beaches and turquoise waters… Not to spend all your time in the chaotic capital city of Manila.

This buzzing metropolis is home to the bustle of over 21 million people, heavy traffic and high-rises. In other words, the antithesis of tropical paradise!

Chaos aside, the city is a great place to immerse yourself in Phillipino history, local food and culture. So if you find yourself with 2 days in Manila, here is how you should spend it…

2 days in manilla itinerary: Day ONE

Morning- Explore the Spanish Quarter

Wake up bright and early and start your explorations of Manila in the city’s oldest district and historical core, the Fort City of the Philippines- Intramuros. Here, you can learn about the country’s turbulent history during the Spanish Colonial Period.

Once you’ve had your history fix, meander through the cobblestone streets and before long, you’ll feel like you’ve been teleported to Europe. Stop by San Augustine Church and Museum and admire the impressive baroque structure, which has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Lunchtime- A healthy feed at the Corner Café

Upon arriving in Manila, you may notice that the city is filled with fast-food joints and American chain restaurants. However, if greasy food is not your cup of tea, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a healthier option around!

Head to the Corner Café, which offers an amazing menu of entirely vegetarian food, not to mention a great selection of wine and a scrumptious range of vegan ice-cream for dessert.

Afternoon- Shopping at Divisoria Market

There is no shortage of shopping malls in Manila, but if you are after a more adventurous shopping experience, head to the Divisoria Market. This maze of stalls is always bustling with locals.

It is the best place to score dirt-cheap prices on clothing, electronics and knick-knacks galore. Bartering is part of the experience here, so make sure you aren’t shy to haggle with the shopkeepers.

Evening- Dampa Market Seafood Feast

You’ve had your local shopping adventure, so now it’s time for a local eating experience. Dampa Market is well-known for its fresh and delicious seafood which every visitor should definitely try when in Manila.

Here, you pick out and pay for your own seafood from the marketplace and take it to a nearby restaurant where they will cook it for you in any style you would like.

2 DAYS IN MANILA: DAY TWO

Morning- Hike Taal volcano

Your trip to Manila is incomplete without escaping from the concrete jungle to experience a taste of Philippines’ natural beauty. Yolo Travel Philippines offers day tours out of Manila that will take you to Taal Volcano, which is actually the smallest active volcano in the world.

The Taal Volcano is in a unique geographical position, where it’s located inside an island on a lake. Reaching the volcano involves catching a boat over to the island and hiking on a trail for about half an hour.

The hike isn’t particularly hard, but the trail is hot and dusty, so make sure you come equipped with plenty of water and sun protection. At the top of the hike, you’ll be rewarded with impressive views of the main crater and a bubbling sulphur pool.

Afternoon- Tagaytay City for Lunch

Once you’ve worked up a sweat from the hike, it’s time to head to Tagaytay City for a traditional Filipino lunch at a local restaurant.

Once your belly is full, hop in a Jeepney and ride up to the Palace in the Sky for stunning views over the region. On your way back, be sure to stop by a fruit stall and feast on some delicious, sweet pineapple- the area is famous for it!

Evening- Dinner at Greenbelt

If you’ve got any energy left in you after your 2 days in Manila, head over to Greenbelt for some last-minute shopping. The shopping centre is made out of five different sections, each with its own unique style of architecture and selection of stores.

Once you’ve had your shopping fix, head to People’s Place at Greenbelt for some of the best Thai food you’ll have outside of Thailand. The Pad Thai is particularly divine, and the sticky mango rice is a great reason not to skip dessert.

Where to Stay for your 2 days in Manila

During my time in Manila, I stayed at Ascott Makati. The property is located in an upscale area known as the ‘Ayala Triangle’, which is surrounded by a plethora of shopping malls, office buildings and upmarket restaurants.

Ascott Makati is a serviced apartment which offers a 5-star hotel experience in every way. I stayed in one of the recently renovated one-bedroom apartments, which was spacious, tastefully decorated and had great views over the city.

The serviced residence provides a wide range of amenities, including a full gym, yoga studio, pool, kids’ area, day spa and executive lounge. The buffet breakfast at Ascott Makati was particularly outstanding, with a massive range of hot and cold Asian and Western options.

For more Southeast Asia travel, read these next:

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• Vietnam’s Best Kept Secret: An Escape to Paradise in Quy Nhon

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