Things to do in Manila

What to expect from Manila’s top things to do

Manila’s bookings are led by zoos & aquariums, followed by museums and attraction passes, with water parks and tours rounding out visitor favourites. Demand rises and falls through the year, peaking in December and dipping in November, so the busiest months tend to cluster around the year-end.

Best experiences for families, couples and solo travellers

Families will find zoos & aquariums and water parks particularly kid-friendly, offering easy, all-ages entertainment and sights that suit a family day out. Couples may enjoy museums and attraction passes for relaxed, flexible days exploring culture and curated highlights. Solo travellers and small groups can pick from attraction passes for variety or book a tour for a guided experience and local insight.

What travellers from Australia should book in advance

Most visitors from Australia can stay flexible: typical bookings show travellers often secure activities just a day out, though the earliest planners tend to lock things in around five days ahead. Booking ahead matters most in the peak month of December, when demand is notably higher.

How categories compare on price and who they suit

Museums are the easiest, lowest-cost entry point for most visitors, while tours sit at the pricier end of the spectrum. Attraction passes show the widest range of prices, making them the best option if you want anything from budget-friendly to premium experiences. Zoos & aquariums and water parks generally sit in the middle, appealing to families and day-trippers seeking straightforward, mid-range value.