December is a very good season to visit Manila: this is the dry, cooler part of the year, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying city walks. The festive atmosphere before Christmas is vibrant, with many events, light displays, and food markets. Expect comfortable daytime temperatures and pleasant evenings.
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Transport | 1800 USD |
| 🏨 Accommodations | 400 USD |
| 🧳 Gear | 50 USD |
| 🗺️ On-site | 250 USD |
| Total | 2500 USD |
[ ] 🏰 Intramuros ⭐⭐⭐ (~3h)
Historic walled city from Spanish times—walk the cobbled streets, visit forts, and explore churches. Guided walking tours highly recommended.
[ ] 🏛️ San Agustin Church & Museum ⭐⭐⭐ (~1.5h)
UNESCO site and the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Don't miss the ornately decorated interiors and garden cloister.
[ ] 🏰 Fort Santiago ⭐⭐ (~1.5h)
Iconic citadel within Intramuros, with Rizal’s cell and beautiful riverfront views.
[ ] 🎨 National Museum of Fine Arts ⭐⭐ (~2h)
Superb collection of Filipino Master paintings and sculptures—great for art lovers.
[ ] 🎨 National Museum of Anthropology ⭐⭐ (~1.5h)
Explore the diverse cultures and heritage of the Philippines through fascinating artifacts.
[ ] 🏙️ Binondo Chinatown ⭐⭐ (~2h)
The world’s oldest Chinatown—wander bustling food alleys and try Chinese-Filipino specialties.
[ ] 🌳 Rizal Park (Luneta Park) ⭐⭐ (~1h)
Urban park with monuments, fountains, and green lawns—historic site for Dr. José Rizal.
[ ] 🏛️ Cultural Center of the Philippines ⭐⭐ (~1.5h)
Modernist landmark and epicenter for Filipino arts—check the schedule for performances.
[ ] 🏙️ Quiapo District & Quiapo Church ⭐ (~1.5h)
Bustling local market scene, eclectic shops, and the landmark Black Nazarene church.
[ ] 🌳 Paco Park & Cemetery ⭐ (~1h)
Atmospheric circular park—peaceful oasis with striking architecture.
[ ] 🎨 Ayala Museum ⭐⭐ (~2h)
Interactive exhibits on Filipino gold, maritime history, and the epic dioramas.
[ ] 🛍️ Greenbelt & Glorietta Malls (Makati) ⭐⭐ (~1.5h)
Explore the lush urban gardens, elegant shopping, and gourmet food hubs.
[ ] 🏙️ BGC (Bonifacio Global City) Street Art & Mind Museum ⭐⭐ (~2h)
Trendy business district with striking street murals and science exhibits.
[ ] 🌊 Manila Baywalk ⭐⭐ (~1h)
Scenic promenade, fantastic sunset views over the bay.
[ ] 🌸 Divisoria Market ⭐ (~1.5h)
Manila's hectic bargain and textile market—a true local experience.
[ ] 🏨 Escolta Street ⭐ (~1h)
Historical old business district—charming heritage architecture and indie cafés.
[ ] 🏙️ Malate District ⭐ (~1.5h)
Vibrant nightlife, art cafés, and the colorful Remedios Circle area.
[ ] 🍸 The Bayleaf Sky Deck (Intramuros) ⭐⭐⭐ (~2h)
Rooftop bar with panoramic views of old Manila—go at sunset, try local cocktails.
[ ] 🍸 Raffles Long Bar (Makati) ⭐⭐ (~2h)
Sleek, historic-inspired bar—signature cocktails in a plush atmosphere.
[ ] 🍸 Dampa Seaside Macapagal ⭐⭐⭐ (~2h)
Seafood market and eatery strip: choose your fresh catch and have it cooked to order.
[ ] 🍜 Ilustrado Restaurant (Intramuros) ⭐⭐⭐
Classic Filipino-Spanish fusion, gorgeous interiors, specialty: Callos Madrileños, ~20 USD
[ ] 🍜 Ristorante Delle Mitre (Intramuros) ⭐⭐
Hearty local and international favorites, namesake desserts, ~12 USD
[ ] 🍜 The Aristocrat Restaurant (Roxas Blvd) ⭐⭐
An institution for BBQ chicken and kare-kare, ~10 USD
[ ] 🍜 New Po Heng Lumpia House (Binondo) ⭐⭐
Legendary fresh lumpia, ~3 USD
[ ] 🏙️ Manila Chinese Cemetery (~1h)
Lavish tombs, unique fusion of architectural styles.
[ ] 🏛️ Metropolitan Museum of Manila (~1h)
Contemporary Philippine art and exciting rotating exhibits.
[ ] 🏯 Las Piñas Bamboo Organ (~1h, taxi ride)
Visit for the beautiful bamboo pipe organ and church concerts.
Amazon PrimeNetflixiWantTFCAmazon Prime| City | Nights | Accommodation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manila | 4 | New World Makati Hotel | 400 USD |
| Total | 4 nights | 400 USD |