10-Day Manila Itinerary: Where to Eat, Go & Chill Like a Local

Julie Anne L.
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Ten days in Metro Manila? Sounds like a long trip—until you realize the traffic alone eats a chunk of that. But once you start exploring, the city gives you layers: history, food, noise, quiet, repeat. This 10-day Manila itinerary isn’t about squeezing in everything—it’s about getting just enough chaos, lechon, and jeepney rides without feeling like you need a vacation after your vacation. Think of it as your cheat sheet to pacing things right. You’ll hit museums, markets, and malls—but still have time for a nap (or three). Let’s break it down, one day at a time.

10 Days in Manila: The Ultimate Itinerary for Culture, Food & Fun

Day 1: Arrival + Chill in the City

Settle in your hotel or Airbnb near Makati, BGC, or Ermita

Photo via @homemehotel / Instagram 

These areas are safe, central, and surrounded by good food and shops. You’ll find everything you need nearby—banks, groceries, and restaurants. Take the day to rest and recharge after your trip.

Take it slow with a walk at Ayala Triangle Gardens

It’s a peaceful green space in the middle of Makati’s business district. Great for a short walk, some fresh air, or people-watching. If you’re lucky, you might catch an art installation or light show in the evening.

Grab dinner at a rooftop spot 

Photo via @jaymdla / Instagram 

Dining with a city view is a perfect way to start your Manila trip. These rooftop restaurants offer great ambiance, city lights, and delicious menus. It’s a chill way to wrap up your first day.

Day 2: Discover Old Manila

Explore Intramuros: Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila

Photo via @icheritzyou / Instagram 

Walk through cobblestone streets and dive into the city’s Spanish colonial history. Each site tells a different story—from wartime heroism to old Filipino lifestyles. It’s like time traveling without leaving the city.

  • Admission: ₱₱-₱₱₱
  • Address:  Intramuros, City Of Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
  • Website: intramuros.gov.ph
  • Phone: 02 8527 3155

Ride a kalesa or join a bamboo bike tour

Photo via @aimanabdullah / Instagram 

Add more fun to your exploration by hopping on a horse-drawn carriage or renting a cool bamboo bike. Local guides will share interesting facts you won’t find on Google. Plus, it’s an IG-worthy way to tour the place!

End your day at Rizal Park with a chill walk 

Photo via potato_cailey / Instagram

Rizal Park, also called Luneta, is perfect for slow strolls, people-watching, or just lounging on the grass. You can rent a bike, visit Jose Rizal’s monument, or grab a drink at Papakape. It’s especially lovely during sunset.

  • Admission: Free
  • Address: Roxas Blvd, Manila, Luzon 1000

Day 3: Chinatown Food Trip

Head to Binondo and do a DIY food crawl

Binondo is the oldest Chinatown in the world, packed with food stops and hidden gems. Try dumplings, hopia, lumpia, and more—you won’t leave hungry! Don’t forget to bring cash and walk around small alleys for local favorites.

  • Price: ₱₱-₱₱₱
  • Address: 864 Masangkay St, Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila

Drop by Escolta for vintage stores and art hubs

Photo via @arki.gee / Instagram

This old street mixes history with artsy vibes, home to cool thrift shops and galleries. Great for browsing unique finds or snapping retro-style photos. It’s a quieter stop that feels creative and local.

  • Admission: Free
  • Address: Escolta Street, Binondo & Sta. Cruz, Manila, Metro Manila 

Watch the sunset by Jones Bridge or Pasig River Esplanade

Photo via @djgchristian / Instagra

As golden hour hits, head to Jones Bridge—Manila’s mini version of Paris’ Pont Alexandre III. The bridge lights up beautifully at night, perfect for romantic walks. Nearby, the Pasig River Esplanade offers a peaceful, breezy view.

  • Admission: Free
  • Address: Quiapo, Capital District, Metro Manila 

Day 4: Museum Hopping

Explore the National Museum Complex (Fine Arts, Anthropology, Natural History)

These museums are huge, air-conditioned, and absolutely free! You’ll see everything from old artworks and dinosaur bones to Filipino cultural treasures. Take your time and snap some photos of the iconic spiral staircase.

Visit Manila Central Post Office and Metropolitan Theater

Both buildings are just nearby and worth checking out for their historical architecture. While the theater sometimes hosts events, the post office is great for vintage photo ops. You’ll feel like you stepped into old Manila.

Chill at Papakape Café in Rizal Park for a local brew

This cozy, stylish café is the perfect pit stop for coffee lovers exploring Manila. Sip on bold barako blends, refreshing iced lattes, or other locally inspired brews while enjoying a scenic view of the park and the iconic Manila City Hall. Whether you’re fueling up for more sightseeing or just relaxing in the shade, Papakape offers a uniquely Filipino coffee experience with a laid-back vibe.

Day 5: Makati Arts & Coffee Day

Visit Ayala Museum 

This museum showcases everything from ancient Filipino gold to history-packed dioramas. It’s sleek, modern, and very well-curated—great for learning and visuals. The museum café is also a quiet place to relax.

Explore art galleries like Vinyl on Vinyl

Photo via @dennisbato / Instagram

These are hidden gems for modern and contemporary art fans. You’ll find everything from edgy paintings to pop-art installations. They’re not too crowded, so you can really take your time.

Go café hopping in Legazpi or Poblacion

Photo via @joweeena / Instagram  

Both areas have some of the best coffee spots in the metro. From minimalist cafés to cozy vintage-style shops, there’s something for every mood. Grab a pastry and chill while people-watching or journaling.

Day 6: BGC Urban Fun

Explore Bonifacio Global City

Photo via @archyves.jpg / Instagram 

BGC is clean, walkable, and filled with street art, parks, and lifestyle hubs. Visit The Mind Museum if you’re into interactive science fun. Don’t forget to check out High Street for open-air shopping.

Check out Venice Grand Canal Mall and ride the gondola

Yes, there’s a mini Venice in Manila! Ride a gondola, take aesthetic pics, or just enjoy the Italian-inspired vibe. It’s a little cheesy—but fun and romantic, especially at night.

  • Price: ₱₱₱
  • Address:  Intramuros, City Of Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
  • Phone: 02 8527 3155

Nightcap at The Palace or a rooftop bar

Photo via @xylomanila / Instagram 

BGC turns into a party hub at night, with rooftop bars, clubs, and lounges. Whether you’re up for cocktails or just vibing with music, there’s a spot for every mood. Try Yes Please, XYLO, or The Palace Pool Club.

Day 7: Art and Interactive Day

Visit Art in Island or Ronac Art Center

Photo via @juantamadadventures / Instagram 

Art in Island is full of 3D art you can pose with—super fun for selfies and group shots. Ronac Art Center, on the other hand, mixes modern art with sleek design. Both places offer a fun, creative break from the usual.

Try baking at IDIM DIY Bakery

Photo via @hungrybyaheros / Instagram

At this bakery, you get to play chef and bake your own cookies, cakes, or pastries. It’s a cute and fun hands-on activity, perfect for couples or families. Plus, you get to eat your own creations!

Dinner at Agimat at Ugat Foraging Bar and Kitchen

Photo via @agimatbar / Instagram 

This one-of-a-kind spot serves modern Filipino dishes using locally foraged ingredients, blending tradition with creativity. The interiors are atmospheric and moody—perfect for a unique and memorable dinner experience. Every dish is a conversation piece, both in flavor and presentation.

Day 8: Amusement & Play Day

Visit Star City or SM By the Bay Amusement Park

Photo via @starcity_philippines / Instagram 

Feel like a kid again with rides, arcade games, and carnival snacks. Whether you’re into thrill rides or just watching the lights, these parks are fun and lively. Perfect for friend groups, couples, or even solo adventurers!

Bounce around at WiiJump Trampoline Park 

Bounce around at WiiJump Trampoline Park, where you can jump, flip, and race through wall-to-wall trampolines. It’s high-energy fun that doubles as a workout. Whether you’re flying solo or challenging friends, it’s a blast from start to finish.

Have a seafood feast at Seaside Dampa

Pick your fresh seafood, choose how it’s cooked, and enjoy a feast! From buttered shrimp to grilled squid, everything is delicious and made to order. It’s messy, tasty, and totally worth it.

Day 9: Pasay + Mall Hopping

Explore SM Mall of Asia (MOA)

One of the biggest malls in Asia, MOA has everything—clothes, tech, food, cinemas, and even an ice-skating rink. You could spend hours here without getting bored. Don’t miss the MOA globe for your photo souvenir!

  • Admission: Free
  • Address: J.W. Diokno Boulevard, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

Chill by MOA By the Bay and ride the Ferris wheel

Photo via Guide to the Philippines 

This area gets lively at sunset with street food, performers, and seaside breeze. The giant Ferris wheel gives you a great view of Manila Bay. It’s simple but super romantic.

  • Admission: Free
  • Address: J.W. Diokno Boulevard, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

Catch sunset at Manila Baywalk

Photo via Skyscanner Philippines

Catch the sunset at Manila Baywalk for a relaxed end to your day. Enjoy street food, live music, and the sea breeze as the sky glows gold. It’s a simple, scenic experience that captures the local vibe perfectly.

  • Admission: Free
  • Address: Roxas Blvd, Malate, City Of Manila, 1004 Metro Manila
  • Email: mbco@denr.gov.ph 
  • Phone: 8928-1225 

Day 10: Souvenir Shopping + Departure

Buy pasalubong at Kultura, Greenhills, or Divisoria

Photo via @kulturafilipino / Instagram 

Look for handmade crafts, keychains, shirts, or local snacks like dried mangoes. Kultura is more curated, Greenhills has great deals, and Divisoria is best for bulk buys. Don’t forget to haggle a little!

Quick lunch at Manam or Locavore

Photo via @manamph / Instagram 

Try their modern take on Filipino dishes like sinigang na baboy, kare-kare, or sisig. Portions are good for sharing and flavors are on point. It’s a delicious way to end your trip.

Head to the airport—full hearts, full camera roll

Photo via Manila Standard

Pack your memories, your souvenirs, and maybe a few snacks for the ride. Manila may be chaotic, but it’s full of charm and surprises. Come back soon—there’s still more to see!

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Hey, it's Julie! Fueled by coffee and cuddles from my 5 feline overlords, I'm on a perpetual quest for the perfect plate. When I'm not exploring new restos, you'll find me curled up with a good book or planning my next adventure.

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