Intramuros | Spanish vibes in the Philippines

Intramuros is the oldest district in Manila, the capital of the Philippines.

It is massively influenced by Spanish culture because once the Philippines was occupied by Spain for more than 300 years. It is a district next to the famous Rizal Park, with a lot of universities around and in it. Take a step back in time and check it out!

Find out top things to see and do in Intramuros!

1. How to get around Intramuros

2. Main attractions in Intramuros

3. Video

How to get around Intramuros

The name ‘Intramuros’ means ‘within the walls’, and it actually stands for its name – it is an area surrounded by walls, so it is impossible to get lost. It is possible to walk through all the district in one day, but what I did and suggest is to get on a ride with one of the locals on their kind of ‘rickshaws’, only be careful, negotiate the price at the beginning of the trip, you don't want to end up paying more than you thought you would be paying. You will not only see all the main attractions but will find out many interesting and funny tips you wouldn’t find out on any organized tour. Another way to get around the district is by bikes and a very popular place where to rent them is https://www.bambike.com/, they have bicycles made from actual bamboo trees!

Main attractions in Intramuros

The whole area is surrounded by a fort called ‘Fort Santiago’, so there are many stages of the fort that have survived time and still shows the history of the fort, you can actually see bullet holes in the walls!

Personally, a place that most reminded me about Spain was ‘Casa Manila’, which is a museum, depicting colonial lifestyle during Spanish colonization, you really feel like you have travelled back in time. Also if you are planning to have lunch within Intramuros, I suggest going to a place in ‘Casa Manila’ called ‘Barbara’s’ https://www.zomato.com/manila/barbaras-intramuros-manila, a heritage restaurant, that has good food for very good prices. They offer tapas, which is a popular Spanish dish and local Philippine goodies, so you can get the best of both worlds!

You definitely need to take a look at the ‘San Agustin Church’, which is the oldest church in the city (completed in 1607) and is still one the most popular churches to get married in.

Another one is ‘Manila Cathedral’ which is the face of the whole district really representing the Spanish influence.

In and around the area you will find many beautiful gardens and parks, where to take a break from the busy Manila life.

Intramuros through my eyes see in this video:

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Singapore: https://www.alikitravelblog.com/post/singapore-travel-guide

Bali: https://www.alikitravelblog.com/post/bali-is-all-that-buzz-worth-it

Manila: https://www.alikitravelblog.com/post/metro-manila-travel-guide

Hong Kong: https://www.alikitravelblog.com/post/hong-kong-travel-guide

Sagada & Banaue Rice Terraces: https://www.alikitravelblog.com/post/sagada-banaue-rice-terraces

Taal Volcano: https://www.alikitravelblog.com/post/how-to-get-to-taal-volcano

El Nido: https://www.alikitravelblog.com/post/el-nido-palawan-the-philippines