Museum of Intramuros

Meet your guide and dive into the history of the Philippines, beginning with the oldest stone church in the country. Hear about how and why the Spanish ended up on this side of the world, as well as the everlasting marks they left after over 300 years of occupation. Next, cross the street and enter an expertly restored, 19th-century aristocrats' home and marvel at the furnishings and design, located at the point where east and west influences meet. Make your way toward a rarely visited part of the historic wall of Intramuros and catch a glimpse into its marvelous past.  Then, step into the history museum, which offers further insight into Manila's old city and its history intertwined with the Catholic Church. Continue onward through the narrow streets, making a quick stop at the WWII memorial to hear about the role of the Philippines in the war. Another quick stop at the Cathedral that represents the seat of the Catholic Church in the Philippines Then we learn about the Filipino's fight for independence at the old military garrison.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Toho Panciteria Antigua.. If there's a restaurant in Manila that can truly be called a bastion of authentic Chinese cuisine, it has to be Toho Panciteria Antigua. 1919 Grand Cafe. Recognized as one of the historic landmarks on Juan Luna Street in Binondo, the HSBC building has been transformed into the contemporary 1919 Grand Cafe. At 1919 Grand Cafe, guests can explore a rich and varied menu. LUNETA PARK Known historically as 'Luneta' until the 1950s, Manila’s renowned central park spans approximately 60 hectares, featuring expansive lawns, beautiful gardens, serene ponds, paved pathways, and lush wooded areas. It is adorned with monuments honoring numerous Filipino heroes. This park holds significant historical importance as the site of José Rizal's execution by Spanish colonial forces. THE DUNGEONS The dungeons, once a powder magazine for the Spaniards, were designed to store gunpowder, not to serve as a place of torment. The story of flooding these dungeons to drown prisoners is simply untrue, considering their original use. FORT SANTIAGO Fort Santiago, established in 1571 by the Spaniards, is one of Manila's oldest fortifications. Originally, it was a simple palisaded structure made of logs and earth, constructed by Rajah Soliman in the native settlement of Maynila. The Spanish colonizers quickly recognized the strategic importance of the land where the Pasig River meets Manila Bay. The fort faced destruction in 1574 during an attack by the Chinese forces led by Limahong. BALUARTE Baluarte de San Diego is a uniquely shaped fortification nestled within the historic Intramuros district of Manila City. Constructed from the remnants of a circular watchtower built between 1586 and 1587, this spade-shaped bulwark has a rich history. CASA MANILA Casa Manila, also known as the "Manila House," serves as a vibrant museum that showcases the opulent lifestyle of a wealthy Filipino family during the late Spanish colonial era Manila Cathedral Recognized as the foremost Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines, the Manila Cathedral is located in the Plaza de Roma in Intramuros. Its full title is the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica, and it serves as the official seat of the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Manila. The SAN AGUSTIN CHURCH San Agustin Church is a cultural and artistic gem, recognized for its outstanding universal value. It is not only a National Cultural Treasure and Historical Landmark but has also been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1993 as one of the four Baroque Churches of the Philippines. KALESA RIDE Prior to the advent of jeepneys, Kalesas, which are horse-drawn carriages, served as the primary means of transport. During the Spanish colonial period, these vehicles were favored by the elite and high-ranking officials.