Manila Cruise Port Guide

Cruise ships usually dock at Manila North Harbour Port. If you are arriving in Manila on a cruise ship, the capital city of the Philippines is a wild and frenzied destination for tourists, but a place that makes its visitors feel alive. The sprawling, energetic city is home to a rich cultural history, and filled with enough sights and experiences for everybody to enjoy.

Image Source: Manila Standard

Even if you’re just stopping by for a short visit, you’re sure to find enough enchanting magic to keep coming back for more. Although Manila seems unfailingly in a constant state of flux, the core spirit of the people in the city always remains jovial.

Manila Sightseeing Tours

Manila sightseeing tours are a popular way to make the most of this fascinating city during a brief stop. Try and research a particular area you’d like to see, then look at tours operating in that area. A particularly popular tour area is the historic part of the city, but there’s always the newer part of Manila in Bonifacio Global City just waiting to be discovered, too. If you decide to join a tour of the old area, you’ll see such highlights as the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1720, and Fort Santiago, a defense fortress that dates back to 1590.

Image Source: Wikimedia

You’ll also walk along – and learn about – the district of Intramuros, the city’s oldest area, which is paved with cobblestone paths and just oozes history. There are plenty of tour companies operating in Manila, so take a look to see which offer tours in the areas of your interest. You can even tour some of Manila's infamous slums. Whichever tour you choose, you’ll have a great time discovering the city.

Manila Shore Excursions

There are many fascinating sites just a short drive away from Manila, so it’s well worth looking to see what is available for a short excursion. When you want to escape the concrete jungle, jump on a Manila shore excursion to Corregidor, a fortress that has played a big role in military conflicts of the past, including major WWII battles between the USA and Japan. Also just one hour away from Manila is Tagaytay, one of the country’s most picturesque cities.

Image Source: CN Traveller

While you may be charmed by Tagaytay’s quaint streets, the highlight of this area is the sublime Taal Lake, which sits at the foot of Taal Volcano. Wherever you go, just by venturing away from Manila you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what this country is all about. If you want to make your trip extra special, and learn about what really makes the Philippines, an excursion is a must do.

Manila Attractions

There are many, many things to do in Manila. Museum lovers will find the three biggest right up their alley. There is the National Museum of the Philippines, the Museum of the Filipino People, and the Metropolitan Museum of Manila. You can also pay a visit to the Presidential Palace, Manila's answer to the White House.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Outdoors and nature lovers, meanwhile, will find much to enjoy at Manila Zoo, the Manila Ocean Park aquarium, and Arroceros Forest Park, a large urban forest with thousands of different tree and plant species. When you want to sample some of the city’s religious history, take a tour of the many churches and cathedrals. But if you want to do shopping, gambling, dining, or all of the above, Resorts World Manila is the place to be.

Manila Cruise Port Hotels

As it’s a large, cosmopolitan city, there are many Manila cruise port hotels to choose from if planning a return journey. These range from budget backpacking hostels, to hotels that rival anything found elsewhere in the world. If you want the very best, look at staying at Pan Pacific Manila or Hotel H20, two hotels that feature the very best in service, amenities, and style.

Image Source: Hotel H20

If your budget allows it, you can’t go wrong with either of these hotels. If you are on a budget, then the Go Hotels Otis is a good option for travellers who want a memorable stay without the heavy price tag. For rooms with a great view over Manila bay, The Bayleaf Intramuros may also be of interest. If you want to combine your stay with some first rate entertainment, book yourself in to the Manila Pavilion Hotel and Casino and spend the night in top class surroundings and with plenty of entertainment on tap.

Manila Restaurants

Manila restaurants are noted for being diverse, different, and delicious. You can find plenty of great sit down restaurants near Rizal Park, or you could just as easily wander the streets and find a tasty and filling street food vendor. Either way, you’ll find it to be an authentic experience, the memory of which will last many years.

Image Source: Asia Hotels

Even if you’re not eating, it’s well worth spending an hour or two in Rizal Park, a popular city highlight that is home to just about everything, including Japanese gardens, classical concerts, and many of the city’s museums. But always remember, in the Philippines, eating is the national sport!