Weekend in Manila

Part of the National Museum complex, this neoclassical building houses the country's most important art collection, including Juan Luna's 'Spoliarium'. Galleries span classical to

Tip: Go on a weekday morning to avoid school groups. Photography without flash is allowed in most galleries. Prepare for security checks – no large bags or food inside.

A 58-hectare urban park at the northern end of Roxas Boulevard. It marks the execution site of national hero José Rizal and includes a large monument, manicured gardens, a Chinese

Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. The free nightly light-and-sound show at the Rizal Monument starts at 7pm on weekends.

The 64-hectare walled city built by the Spanish in the 16th century. You can walk or bike the cobblestone streets past San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Fort Santiago, and old colonia

Tip: Rent a bamboo bike (P150/hour) from the Intramuros Visitors Centre. Sundays are car-free on Calle Real, making it much safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

The world's oldest Chinatown, founded in 1594. A packed district of narrow streets, traditional temples, century-old bakeries, and street-food stalls. The main drag, Ongpin Street, is lined with gold

Tip: Go on a guided walking tour by 'Binondo Food Crawl' (P600–800) to navigate safely and sample the best dumplings, hopia, and noodle soups. Avoid weekends when it's impossibly crowded.

A 1607 Baroque church inside Intramuros, one of four UNESCO-listed Philippine Baroque churches. The interior is ornate with trompe-l'oeil painted ceilings, a golden altar, and a museum of religious ar

Tip: The church itself is free to enter for prayer or quiet contemplation. The museum costs P200 (about $4) – worth it for the well-curated collection. Go mid-morning when the stained-glass windows catch the light.