Best Free Things to Do in Manila

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Manila

Best Free Things to Do in Manila

Awards
Travelers' Choice Awards winners (including the "Best of the Best" title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travelers across the globe.
Traveler rating
Neighborhoods
Good for
49 results sorted by traveler favorites
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
Showing results 1-30 of 49

What travelers are saying

  • Malaya B
    2 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Spanish-era architecture is beautifully preserved, and it’s easy to get lost in the charm of this historic district in the heart of Manila.
    Written February 4, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • yben
    Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines77 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    nice and beautiful mall. big and spacious. nice location and very accessible. nearby many hotels, schools, restaurants etc... mall is clean and safe. many restaurants and stores inside. big supermarket, many street food selling inside. mall usually closed at 10pm.
    Written February 9, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • yben
    Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines77 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Rizal park also popularly known as Luneta Park, is a big urban park in manila. Its clean and beautiful. Many people go there to stroll or exercise. Best to go there early morning or late afternoon to avoid the scourching heat of the sun and be able to enjoy the cool breeze.
    Written November 13, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Dan L
    Bunbury, Australia9,016 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The building dates to 1586, constructed in the Baroque style, completed in 1604 and consecrated in 1607 and is regarded as the oldest stone church in the country. The building has survived earthquakes, fire sacking, war, it served as a hospital in 1863 and as a concentration camp by the Japanese during WW11. Although damaged, it was the only building in Intramuros that survived the war.
    Written December 12, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Denis85_9
    Cheffois, France165 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    popular market in the street.

    The kind of place where you wander w/o looking for something special but where you can always find something to buy.
    Written January 15, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Dan L
    Bunbury, Australia9,016 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A brief stop on a busy shore excursion itinerary, time enough to get a few photos of both the exterior and interior. External signage was very informative, the official title being, "Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception", the present building the 8th built on the site, the first in 1571 was a simple church which was declared a Cathedral in 1581. Earthquakes, fire and war have not been kind to the Cathedral over the centuries. The present building dates to 1958, the year it was completed and consecrated.
    Written December 10, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Harirajan Varatharajan
    Penang Island, Malaysia271 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Manila Bay Beach, also known as Dolomite Beach, offers a refreshing escape in the heart of the city with its artificial white sand and stunning sunset views. It has become a popular spot for leisurely walks, relaxation, and photography, drawing both locals and tourists. While swimming is not allowed, the clean-up efforts have improved the bay’s scenery and atmosphere. Though the project remains controversial, the beach provides a scenic waterfront space for people to enjoy Manila’s iconic bay view.
    Written January 31, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • lyd
    San Andres, Philippines6 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    This weekend with so many shut down stores, only food shops still operating and many of them selling imported Chinese foodstuff. And a few Chinese Traditional Medicine outlets still open with shortened hours. Take out cooked food outlets still making good sales

    The sidewalks on Ongpin St. are 60 cm lower than the street level and narrow too. There are electric meters protruding at chest level from the facade of stores. So watch out!.

    Because of the dire economy, no longer vibrant.
    Written August 28, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Delle
    346 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wanted to explore and boy did it not disappoint. All the beautiful colors and mixture of old and new. Those gold shops are going to drive you crazy. You have to try Yong Ying restaurant well known by the locals, ask for Beth. Best Dim sum ever.
    Written May 14, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Teresa C
    Metro Manila, Philippines1,623 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Majestically rising up in a square, this church commands attention. Colourful, towering statues are dotted around the perimeter and inside the church. Always busy with worshippers. It is next door to Quiapo Market.
    Written May 6, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Aaqarsh Aiyyar
    Chennai (Madras), India2,414 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I had a good time roaming around this shopping mall and I bought a few souvenirs . It is a nice place to understand the kind of things you get in Manila.
    Written May 31, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ron B
    Dallas, TX36 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Retired and living at Baywatch Towers Condominium in Malate I moved here from United States in November 2023 in my second year here
    Written December 21, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • YuppieLionheart
    Philippines674 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oldest pontifical university in Asia located at the heart of España, Manila. Even though this is a catholic school, you can still enroll even if you have a different religion as long as you pass their entrance exam and meet the requirements for enrollment. Every Christmas, they have "paskuhan" which is fun. They used to allow non-students to enter the campus as long as they are accompanied by a UST student who's gonna watch paskuhan. However, recently the event is only exclusive for UST students. You'll gonna love the architecture and the vibes of this place. They have this lover's lane as what most students call it, which is a good place to chill. However, the only downside here is that when it's raining hard, expect a flood around the campus. Inside the university campus, there is a chapel which is open for non-students, you just have to use the gate near the chapel to enter, They also have a hospital inside the campus. So if you're gonna go to the hospital, you'll have to use the gate near the hospital because the guards won't allow you to enter in their other gates.
    Written May 12, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Harirajan Varatharajan
    Penang Island, Malaysia271 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The National Museum of Natural History in Manila is a captivating and educational destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Housed in a beautifully restored neoclassical building, the museum’s exhibits offer an impressive collection of the Philippines’ diverse flora, fauna, and geological history. The centerpiece, the “Tree of Life” installation, is a striking and interactive display that ties together the country’s natural heritage. From rare fossils to endemic species and stunning dioramas, each exhibit is well-curated and informative. The museum’s spacious layout and family-friendly atmosphere make it an excellent destination for both solo visitors and groups. While the museum is educational, it also serves as a beautiful space to appreciate the country’s natural wonders. Overall, the National Museum of Natural History is a must-see for anyone interested in the Philippines’ rich biodiversity and environmental conservation.
    Written January 30, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • doctorfoxtrot
    Taguig City, Philippines13,359 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Before the pandemic , this used to be my go to mall , for shopping , dining or just relaxation. With lockdowns and restrictions, I noticed several restaurants and shops closing down. Now with the laxity of measures , mall goers are slowly increasing by the numbers. But no changes had been made. No modifications, place becomes more dated . Lastly it is very much less cooler. I don’t like the dining ambience. Compared to the Power Plant Mall , it pales with the opening of the Grid food market.
    Written April 30, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
All Manila HotelsManila Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in Manila
All things to do in Manila
Day Trips in ManilaCasinos & Gambling in Manila
RestaurantsFlightsTravel StoriesCruisesRental Cars