Love the Philippines: Best Manila Day Trips in 2024

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is not only a cultural and historical hub but also a gateway to numerous exciting day trips. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, serene landscapes, or a blend of both, the surrounding areas offer a myriad of options. From the picturesque highlands of Tagaytay to the historical intrigue of Corregidor Island, and the natural wonders of Masungi Georeserve to the soothing waters of Pagsanjan Falls, these top 10 day trips promise to deliver unforgettable experiences for both adrenaline junkies and those in need of relaxation. Let's explore the best day trips from Manila, where adventure and tranquility await.

Distance from Manila: 47 kilometers

Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area and rustic rock garden nestled in the rainforests of Rizal. Known for its limestone formations and conservation efforts, it offers activities such as hiking, rope courses, and canopy walkways. If you are planning to visit the place, be sure to check their official website and book in advance to avoid inconveniences. Some of the most interesting features include “Sapot” (Spiderweb), which offers a 360-degree scenery of the Sierra Madre mountain range, and “Duyan,” a hammock-like attraction where you can relax and take photos. Include this in your Manila road trip itinerary and you’ll surely have some nice photos as souvenirs.

Notable Stops: Pililla Wind Farm for panoramic views of Laguna de Bay.

Where to Eat: Lutong Pugon Wood Fired Pizza in Antipolo for delicious, freshly made pizzas.

Distance from Manila: 48 kilometers

Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour (via ferry from Manila Bay)

Corregidor Island is a historical fortress used during World War II. Visitors can explore the Malinta Tunnel, various gun batteries, and memorials dedicated to Filipino and American soldiers. You can get to Corregidor Island via Sun Cruise ferry from Manila. The ferry’s terminal is located in Esplanade Seaside in Pasay City. You may choose to book in advance just make sure to visit their social media page for ticket prices and ferry schedule.

Notable Stops: The Pacific War Memorial and the Spanish Lighthouse for panoramic views.

Where to Eat: La Playa Restaurant offers local and international cuisine with scenic views of the bay.

Distance from Manila: 66 kilometers

Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

A drive to Tagaytay is a must, and it is said to be the best road trip from Manila, as it is the easiest route and the most famous. Tagaytay City is famous for its cool climate and the stunning view of Taal Volcano. Popular activities for a day tour in Tagaytay include visiting the Sky Ranch amusement park, Picnic Grove, and hiking to Taal Volcano. You can start your day trip having breakfast at some of its popular restaurants including Antonio’s Breakfast, Bag of Beans, or Sonya’s Garden. You can also try the stalls in Mahogany Market for its famous “bulalo” or beef marrow stew.

Notable Stops: People's Park in the Sky for a panoramic view of Taal Lake and volcano.

Where to Eat: Balay Dako serves classic Filipino dishes with a great view of Taal Lake.

Distance from Manila: 72 kilometers

Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Amadeo, Cavite is known as the "Coffee Capital of the Philippines.” Just a few minutes from Tagaytay City, and an hour and a half near Manila, it offers guided day tours that immerse visitors in the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. These tours provide insight into local farming practices and allow for coffee tasting. Some of these farms include Amadeo Artisano Coffee Farm and Ledesma Coffee Farm.

Notable Stops: The town of Silang for its old churches and flower farms.

Where to Eat: Café Amadeo, offering locally grown coffee and native delicacies.

Distance from Manila: Within Manila

Estimated Travel Time: depends on where you are staying in Manila

Intramuros, or the "Walled City," is the historic heart of Manila. A walking tour reveals centuries-old churches, fortifications, and museums. Before going, you should check the Intramuros Administration official website for the schedule, ticket fees and guidelines. While there are walking tours available online, you can also do a DIY tour since the entrance fee includes a map you can easily follow. If you are a history buff, you will easily love the city of Manila.

Notable Stops: Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila Museum.

Where to Eat: Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant for traditional Filipino cuisine in a colonial setting.

Distance from Manila: Within Manila

Estimated Travel Time: depends on where you are staying in Manila

Manila's Chinatown, known as Binondo, is the oldest Chinatown in the world. A guided day walking tour here combines history with food, taking visitors through bustling streets filled with historical landmarks and delicious eats. If you enjoy the local food, this is one of the food tours in the country that will let you experience the best of both Filipino and Chinese cultures. The Chinese Goodwill Arch at the entrance to the city is a marker that welcomes visitors to Chinatown, and symbolizes the friendship between Chinese immigrants and Filipinos.

Notable Stops: Binondo Church, Ongpin Street, Seng Guan Temple, and Lucky Chinatown Mall.

Where to Eat: Cafe Mezzanine, Wai Ying, and Sincerity Café & Restaurant for their famous fried chicken and other Chinese-Filipino dishes.

Distance from Manila: 130 kilometers

Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan is an open-air museum and heritage resort featuring Spanish-Filipino houses that have been restored to their former glory. It is located in Bagac, Bataan. They offer a walking heritage tour, which includes a “balsa” and gondola tour.

Notable Stops: Mount Samat Shrine for a historical perspective on World War II.

Where to Eat: Café Marivent within the heritage site, serving traditional Filipino cuisine.

Distance from Manila: 93 kilometers

Estimated Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano in the Philippines, and known for its catastrophic eruption in 1991. Today, it now offers trekking tours to its stunning crater lake. The adventure involves a combination of 4x4 rides and hiking through lahar fields and lush landscapes. Some guided tours include lunch that features Filipino cuisine. Be sure to bring water, hiking clothes, shoes, and sunscreen, as there are few trees and shaded areas during the short hike to the crater lake. It is also advisable to check the local weather first before booking a tour, since it could be dangerous hiking Mt. Pinatubo during the monsoon season.

Notable Stops: Capas National Shrine, a WWII memorial.

Where to Eat: Elvie’s Canteen in Capas for a hearty Filipino meal before or after the hike.

Distance from Manila: 87 kilometers

Estimated Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours

San Pablo, Laguna, is home to seven volcanic crater lakes, each offering unique scenic beauty and activities such as boating and fishing. The seven crater lakes are also known as Maar Lakes, namely: Bunot Lake, Calibato Lake, Mohicap Lake, Palakpakin Lake, Pandin Lake, Sampaloc Lake, and Yambo Lake. According to scientific studies, these freshwater lakes were formed by a process called phreatic eruption, where shallow lava from nearby Mt. San Cristobal intersected groundwater which blew out the overlying rocks to form a circular and crater-like depression that was eventually filled up with rainwater. For your day trip, be sure to bring extra clothing, bottled water and some snacks. Some of the lakes have vendors who offer a 2-hour stay on a raft, an option that offers a stunning view of the neighboring towns.

Notable Stops: Lake Pandin and Lake Yambo, two of the most accessible and beautiful lakes.

Where to Eat: Casa San Pablo Bed & Breakfast for a homey dining experience with local dishes.

Distance from Manila: 92 kilometers

Estimated Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours

Pagsanjan Falls, also known as Magdapio Falls or Cavinti Falls, is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Philippines. The trip to the falls involves a thrilling boat ride through the Pagsanjan Gorge. Your guides here also offer a raft ride under the waterfalls itself. There are two ways to get around the falls: Go boat riding and experience “Shooting the Rapids” and trek the foot trails at Pueblo el Salvador Nature Park.

• Bring waterproof items: A waterproof bag, smartphone holder, and resealable plastic bags can be very useful
• Wear comfortable clothes: A rash guard is recommended since you'll get wet and sweaty. Also, bring an extra set of clothes
• Opt for a GoPro over a DSLR: If you plan to take pictures, it's best to leave bulky cameras behind. You'll get wet and sweaty, and carrying heavy gear is challenging, especially when trekking and rappelling

Notable Stops: The town of Lumban for its hand-embroidered garments.

Where to Eat: Calle Arco Restaurant in Pagsanjan, known for its Filipino specialties and cozy ambiance.

Renting a car in the Philippines for day trips from Manila significantly enhances the convenience and comfort of travel. A private car offers the flexibility to set your own schedule, allowing you to depart at your preferred time and make spontaneous stops along the way. This mode of transportation eliminates the constraints of public transport schedules and routes, ensuring a more personalized and efficient journey. Additionally, having a private car provides a level of comfort and privacy that public transportation cannot match.

If you are a tourist, before you can rent a car to go around Manila and go on these suggested day trips, you must first have an international driving document for the Philippines. Tourists are usually allowed to use their valid foreign license to drive in Manila for up to 90 days from the date of arrival. However, if they are staying longer than that, it should be converted to a Philippine Professional Driver’s License.

• In Manila, everyone is required to drive on the right side of the road.
• Vehicles are mostly left-hand drive
• Use Google Maps or Waze if your are going around the city or on a road trip
• There are many restrictions in place for parking: avoid parking your vehicle near schools, hospitals, government buildings or on the approach to the bridge
• There are signages present on all roads, and they are all in English and similar to those in Western countries
• There are paid parking spaces, usually in malls, and other commercial buildings
• Speed limits are enforced by towns and cities within their respective urban areas and commercial districts; speed limit is usually less than 40 kilometers per hour
• Some roads in provincial areas can be rough but most national roads and highways are smooth and easy to drive on and navigate

Preparing for a day trip from Manila requires careful packing to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here's a list of essential items to bring along:

1. Waterproof Items: Carry a waterproof bag, smartphone holder, and resealable plastic bags to protect your belongings from unexpected rain or water activities.

2. Comfortable Clothing: Dress in lightweight, breathable clothes suitable for the weather and your planned activities. Consider wearing a rash guard if you'll be engaging in water sports or hiking. Always bring an extra set of clothes.

3. Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking, hiking, or exploring. If you plan to visit beaches or waterfalls, bring water shoes or sandals.

4. Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. An umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket can also be handy for sudden weather changes.

5. Hydration and Snacks: Bring a reusable water bottle and some snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized throughout the day.

6. Camera: Opt for a GoPro or a waterproof camera instead of a bulky DSLR to capture your adventures without the hassle of carrying heavy equipment.

7. Personal Items: Carry your ID, some cash, and a credit card for any entrance fees, meals, or souvenirs. A small first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications can be very useful.

8. Travel Documents: If your day trip involves ferry rides or entering specific areas, ensure you have the necessary tickets and reservations handy.

9. Power Bank: Keep your electronic devices charged by bringing a portable power bank.

10. Map or GPS Device: While most smartphones have reliable maps, having a backup like a paper map or a dedicated GPS device can be helpful in areas with poor signal.

By packing these essentials, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your day trip from Manila, whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation.

Q: Is it safe to drive around Manila?

A: Yes. You just have to know the laws, rules, and regulations and keep your cool while driving because traffic can get heavier during rush hours.

Q: What’s the best and most recommended navigation app around the city?

A: You can download Waze or Google Maps, but Waze offers information and will notify you instantly on the areas with heavy traffic.

Q: I have a valid foreign license in English. Do I need to secure an IDP?

A: IDPs are recommended. However, if you plan to stay in the country for more than 90 days, you will be required to convert your license to a Philippine license If you have yet to secure an IDP, click here to get started.

Q: What are some recommended car rental companies in Manila?

A: Anis Transport, Avis, Hertz, and Diamond Rent-a-Car, among others.

Q: Does Manila follow or use KpH or MpH?

A: Like in most countries, Manila–and generally all over the country, we use KpH. Rental cars in the Philippines also use KpH, and speed limits are displayed in this unit as well.

These Manila day trips provide a variety of experiences, from historical tours and nature adventures to culinary explorations. Each destination is within a few hours' drive from the city, making them perfect for day-long excursions. Whether you're looking to escape the urban hustle or delve into the rich history and culture of the Philippines, this road trip itinerary offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the diverse landscapes and stories just outside Manila's doorstep.