Intramuros
Intramuros
4
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
Intramuros, "The Walled City," is the oldest district in Manila. This is what remains of the fortified city, which was the seat of power during Spanish Colonial times (1521-1898).
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Nitro CarsSydney, Australia30 contributionsIntramuros, Manila. The city within a city.Step back in time to the old walled city - a city within a city. Established during Spanish colonial times 1571 till the American (1898) and Japanese occupation of World War II. Upon arriving you will be doing a lot of walking best to avoid the rainy (June - Oct) and hot seasons (April, May) November to February is probably the best weather to be site seeing. Lots to see like historical buildings, churches, plazas, Manila Cathedral, Rizal shrine, museums and the fortifications of Fort Santiago.Visited August 2023Travelled with familyWritten 11 December 2023
- SingaporeGirlSingapore, Singapore519 contributionsThe 'must' of every Manila visit - IntramurosFor anyone visiting Manila, this has to be your first stop. No other place combines the history, the background, the mood of the city as much as Intramuros, once the 'walled city' relegated to the Spanish from the 1500s on through Manila's liberation by American troops who drove their tanks into the gates of Fort Santiago during the second World War. Do not hesitate in hiring one of the guides who will greet you upon arrival; these guides are superb. They know their history and the stories that make Intramuros come alive. We thought we'd spend an hour and spent nearly three.Visited November 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 15 December 2023
- Dan LBunbury, Australia8,789 contributionsRelic of Spanish era ColonialismVisited with our shore excursion group. Fascinating historical area dating to 1571 when the fortified walled area was founded by Miguel López de Legazpi, Spanish conquistador. Our tour included some of the main attractions, San Agustin Church & Museum, Fort Santiago and Casa Manila Museum. There is so much to see within these ancient walls, a couple of days would be justified in order to understand and appreciate these historical fortifications and their role where once was a Muslim kingdom.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 18 December 2023
- San LSingapore, Singapore109 contributionsAppreciate the history of ManilaIntense Filipino History. Worth getting a guide and spending the few hours walking though the surrounds, the dungeons, the old Fort Santiago, the ground, the Spanish barracks, the American barracks, and the incredible history of Manila, and the Philippines. Learning and not forgetting the history and atrocities of the Japanese Occupation. And finally, enjoying a horse carriage ride around the old city walled perimeter.Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten 22 December 2023
- CeciliaLozada52 contributionsLots of HistoryMy mom and dad were teenagers during the Japanese occupation. There’s a lot of sad history but it should be kept alive so it’s not relived or forgotten. We didn’t book a tour, but once we arrived, there are plenty of motor bikes offering tours. Be careful on creating a time frame because they will continue the tour and then charge more for their service. Carl, our driver, was great until it came to that point. We still paid and gave him a tip but warned him not to do this to future travelers. Overall, Intramuros is worth a tour. Afterwards, nearby, is the Manila Chinatown, also worth a visit.Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 7 January 2024
- DongBasay, Philippines38 contributionsIntramuros, An absolute must visit when in ManilaWow! An absolute must if you are visiting Manila. A chance to view some of the historical architecture that has influenced buildings, life and culture in the Philippines. We can all have an opinion on the fairness of history, but this living town allows one to walk where those influences started 400+ years ago. The buildings are great, they city wall is amazing and the church leaves one feeling quite insignificant given it's splendor and history. Top marks Manila.Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 January 2024
- lucskySydney, Australia400 contributionsOK but not greatit's not bad but you will find better Spanish cultural heritage in lots of other towns or countries. If you have a few hours to kill why not visit a museum or a church. No guide required. It's reasonably clean and safe unlike the rest of Manila Ermita or Malate which is filthyVisited February 2024Travelled soloWritten 28 February 2024
- Ben FBloomington, Indiana1,820 contributionsHistoric Fortified Neighborhood with Endless ConstructionI strolled Intramuros for an hour or two (on a 100 degree day, mind you), and the sights I saw were quite interesting and unique. The cathedral in particular was beautiful. I enjoyed people-watching and watching locals live their lives. However, the construction…every corner I turned, workers were digging up the road. I understand they’re trying to preserve and improve things, but from this one experience at an objective point of view, I really disliked the roadwork. Driving my electric wheelchair on the streets to begin with, already stressful as is, was made nearly impossible with construction part of the equation. There also weren’t many places to go in (at least that seemed open to visitors) and not many places to eat that weren’t blocked off. I got a bit lost and confused at times when trying to find my way around, which is often part of the fun, but Manila as a city in general did not impress me. Subjectively. Perhaps experience Intramuros for just an hour en route to something else (e.g. Fort Santiago). I may return once construction season dies down.Visited December 2023Travelled soloWritten 11 March 2024
- RavenCounty Mayo, Ireland138 contributionsLovely area… ruined by constant harassmentThis is a lovely part of Manila however I did not feel safe as a woman alone walking around. I am well traveled having been to regions which are known for harassing tourists this was the worst I have experienced. Even bet Tunisia and Morocco and Egypt. The moment I hopped out of taxi someone ran up to me offering a tour and this continued throughout my whole time there. The area itself is lovely some great architecture and could be turned into a proper money maker if tourists weren’t being harassed. I wanted to eat lunch in the area but ended up going back to hotel so I could have some peace and quiet.Visited June 2024Travelled soloWritten 8 June 2024
- Alan Howell11 contributionsHad a blastWalking through the historic streets of Intramuros felt like stepping back in time, with the ancient walls and beautiful architecture making it feel really authentic. Fort Santiago was fascinating too, with its well-preserved structures and stunning views of the city and the river. Our guide was fantastic, full of interesting stories and insights that made the whole tour come alive. It was a perfect way to dive into Manila's rich history and culture, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city for the first time.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 8 July 2024
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kariprosey
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea7 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
March 12th,2020 was a planned trip to Intramural. The trip was prepared well by the hire car owner. The tour guide was awesome giving every little details of the amazing history of the Intramural. We were taken into the dungeon, the mini museum. Later in the day a horse ride around the Intramural City. A trip worth taken. We recommend any visitors to put Intramural in their site seeing list whenever visiting Manila.
Written 15 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pinoy Viajero
Luzon, Philippines25 contributions
Nov 2019
You cannot say that you have really been in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, if you have not been to Intramuros.
According to historical records, the walled city of Manila or Intramuros was built strategically between Manila Bay and south of Pasig River, and covers a grid that stretches to about 600 by 600 yards. Its purpose is to serve as base for the government, as well as the military, and residence of the richest and most powerful families during the Spanish era.
History says that the construction of the walls of Intramuros began as early as 1590 during the administration of Governor General Santiago De Vera, and was executed by a Jesuit Priest named Antonio Sedeno.
In 1951, Intramuros was declared a historical monument, and Fort Santiago, a national shrine.
Today, the walled city is home to several educational institutions, churches, and monuments.
According to historical records, the walled city of Manila or Intramuros was built strategically between Manila Bay and south of Pasig River, and covers a grid that stretches to about 600 by 600 yards. Its purpose is to serve as base for the government, as well as the military, and residence of the richest and most powerful families during the Spanish era.
History says that the construction of the walls of Intramuros began as early as 1590 during the administration of Governor General Santiago De Vera, and was executed by a Jesuit Priest named Antonio Sedeno.
In 1951, Intramuros was declared a historical monument, and Fort Santiago, a national shrine.
Today, the walled city is home to several educational institutions, churches, and monuments.
Written 14 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jennifer Mendoza
14 contributions
Dec 2019 • Friends
It was very beautiful at night. You can't see trash anymore compared to our previous visit. It's now very clean and I guess a lot of people who visit here aside from us knows how to handle their trash. Well, just like the old times, you can see a lot of people here specifically students since there are many universities located inside this walled city. Will definitely come back.
Written 27 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
itravel
1 contribution
Jan 2020 • Friends
Some of the places were fine but the scamming made it NOT worth it at all. We had a 14 hr layover in Manila (2 young women) and decided why not go see something and check off another country (from what we heard it was no more dangerous than any other city). Saw all the forums about Intramuros and thought why not. As soon as we got out the cab at the church we were bombarded by pedicab drivers that would not take no for an answer and followed us up to the church and followed us when we got out. As we soon realized things were farther apart than anticipated we told the man who cut his price from 350 to 200 php fine and took the ride. It started off good but was longer than expected and he was full of compliments(some inappropriate) and buttering us up. We weren’t buying it but kept the smile on our faces. He eventually pulls out his price sheet and what a magic trick. Different paper FOR SURE, way different price. What was 200 for a ride with no time limit became each per half hour. We argued and he just stared at us. It was him (the guide) and another man was driving the bike. Being two young girls we thought it best to pay and flee and not find out what happens when you refuse. Guy repeatedly told us his name was Sam but as he was full of sh—!, I doubt that was true. Everytime we got into the pedicab he put his hand on the bar as a “reminder to not bump our head.” I suspect it was to keep us from noticing the two different papers taped to the top of the cab. So frustrating because we know better. 🙄 Cherry on top, during our Taxi ride back to the airport, we got caught in traffic at the same red light 5 rounds. Halfway through a homeless looking man walked by swinging a gun. We were terrified because we were stuck bumper to bumper. Thankfully he kept walking and didn’t look our way but even our cab driver looked concerned and inched up as much as he could as the man walked past. So yea it’s a hard no and a never going back.
Written 19 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bklynbubba
Brooklyn, NY406 contributions
Dec 2019
Before visiting Intramuros the first thing you have to realize is that the place was almost totally destroyed during the Battle of Manila at the end of WWII. The Japanese dug in, refusing to surrender or declare Manila an open city (as the Americans had done four years earlier) so the Americans bombed the crap out of them and consequently most of Intramuros was destroyed. San Agustin Church was the only building left partially standing. Whether that was a miracle or not is still being debated. What was once referred to as 'The Pearl of the Orient' was gone forever. Efforts have been made to restore some buildings, the cathedral has been rebuilt, and San Ignacio church is being rebuilt as a cultural center.The walls are intact, and there are a few museums and restaurants scattered about, as well as the San Agustin church and convent. Like their other southeast Asian neighbors, the Filipinos have no great affection for their colonial dominated past. However Intramuros could become a symbol of so much more, if proper development and even some reconstruction is carried out. A fair comparison can be made to Kota in Jakarta. I'm certainly not advocating turning the place into a disnified version of what it once was. But it can become the living heart of the city it once was. There is still lots to see and do here. A walk around the walls is an unforgettable experience, as is gazing across the Pasig River from Fort Santiago. There is also an excellent bookstore in the Silahis Center. And people do still live here, so the place is far from dead. If you are interested in Philippine history this is a good place to learn more. I've visited several times and learn something new with each visit. More needs to be done to return Intramuros to the the cultural and historical center it should be. Come early in the day, walk around, maybe do one or two of the museums and churches, then have lunch, and continue your tour in the afternoon, maybe ending with a walk around the walls. And don't forget that view over the river from Fort Santiago. You won't be disappointed, and may even start thinking about history, and cities, and people, and wars, and................
Written 11 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TravelAdventureGurus
Bethesda, MD334 contributions
Feb 2020 • Business
If youbgave a day or less in Manila and don’t know what to do- the least you can see is this. The buildings are not that impressive but it still nice- the history is very interesting. I especially liked how lively everything was- these are not ruins that only tourists visit, but a fun and vibrant part of the city where locals live, work and relax.
Written 24 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aaqarsh Aiyyar
Chennai (Madras), India2,430 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
Once the seat of the colonial spanish rule, the "walled City" or intramuros offers a touch of an historical setting in a modern city. The architectural designs are amazing. One can see a lot of statues of the spanish Kings and queens. The Manila cathedral and the Fort Santiago are attractions in the Intramuros. Travel could be through the Intramuros battery operated vehicles. This is a must-visit site, if you are in Manila city.
Written 26 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Makoto
Saitama, Japan52 contributions
Apr 2019
Intramuros, Manila’s walled city, has preserved a lot of its architecture: the cathedrals, colonial buildings, cobbled streets. It’s a great stroll. There were also places where you can buy souvenirs.
Intramuros covers a large area. It also is home to several universities. There were illegal settlers around the area. Once they’re relocated, Intramuros would be a better place to visit.
Intramuros covers a large area. It also is home to several universities. There were illegal settlers around the area. Once they’re relocated, Intramuros would be a better place to visit.
Written 5 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah_nz31
Leichhardt, Australia277 contributions
Apr 2023 • Solo
I was not aware that it was Holy Week / Maundy Thursday when I visited. Many buildings / attractions were closed. I would strongly advise to research any holidays / events that might result in closures in advance.
For some reason I assumed it would be much like the Medina in Fes, Morocco, being a walled city. Intramuros was quite different - I found it relatively dirty and unkempt.
There is some printed information at each point of note on signs, but for the best experience I would recommend hiring a guide, which I did not do.
For some reason I assumed it would be much like the Medina in Fes, Morocco, being a walled city. Intramuros was quite different - I found it relatively dirty and unkempt.
There is some printed information at each point of note on signs, but for the best experience I would recommend hiring a guide, which I did not do.
Written 10 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Soymoosemom
Oakville, Canada427 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
First time visiting Intramuros with family. We took the museum tour which was a bit long to be in the dark, but very educational on the Spanish impact on Philippine history. We took the calesa (horse drawn carriage) around the old town, stopping by the Manila Cathedral. Amazing to see buildings and walls that are hundreds of years old. Really special place to visit if you are in Manila.
Written 11 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
You need a guide to visit intramuros or you can go alone??
Written 12 April 2019
If you’re fond of walking around & if you have a couple of hours to spare & not in a hurry, you can definitely go there alone— prepare ahead of time by researching the must visit places (Manila Cathedral, San Agustin, Casa Manila, Fort Santiago, Rizal Park etc.) Have fun!!
Written 12 April 2019
Is there a map and directions for a self guided tour of old Manila from the cruise port?
Written 21 January 2019
I believe you can ask any taxi driver. Mainly the push bike ones. They are everywhere in intramuros and all have maps they are great to go with as they are not expensive and are a wealth of information. It was one of my favourite things I did and takes between an hour and 3 depending on how many of the places you visit
Hope that helps a bit
Wendy
Written 22 January 2019
How do you get to Intramuros from the harbor where cruise ships dock. It seems all tours start at hotels, so being at the pier means figuring out how to get there on our own. thanks for help.
Written 15 September 2018
Hi, Intramuros would be a fairly easy walk from the cruise ship docks. It might take about 30 minutes. The easiest route might be to walk to the main cathedral and fort area. They are on the edge of the Intramuros.
Written 15 September 2018
Hi David
Thanks for your reviews? Does it feel safe in this area of Manila? Appreciate your advice.
Anita
Written 24 August 2018
Intramuros seemed to be quite safe.
Written 15 September 2018
You can visit 3 museum near intramuros, 1st is rizal house museum inside the fort santiago, 2nd is in luneta in front of rajah sulayman and 3rd is at the opposite side of 2nd museum. I hope it will help you
Written 14 April 2018
I remember seeing a great write up about a guide who took walking tours of Intramuros. He apparently is very clever and very funny and makes it an experience to remember. If anyone knows who I am talking about would appreciate help. Thanks
Written 29 July 2017
His name is Carlos Celdran. You may check some of his Tours on FB or visit When in Manila Blog :)
Written 7 November 2017
Hello everyone. I'll be traveling to Manila tomorrow but with the recent incident in Resorts World, we're thinking to cancel the trip.
May I know what the condition is like in Manila City now? I'll be staying in Mandaluyong. Thanks
Written 3 June 2017
It is generally safe. The incident at Resorts World was a robbery according to offica reports from police and Resorts World Management. Don't forget to register with your embassy for easy contact in case of any untoward incidents sonthey may contact you. Enjoy your stay in Manila!
Written 3 June 2017
Hello everyone. With the recent clashes in Mindanao, is it advisable to cancel my trip to Manila next week? What is the condition like in Manil now? Thanks a lot
Written 26 May 2017
Manila is so different from Mindanao they might as well be different countries. The martial law has been declared only in Mindanao. The region has been dealing with terrorists and communist insurgents for decades but apart from the infrequent, one-off incident, the violence doesn't make it that far North.
Don't go to Mindanao. Most Filipinos I speak to are too afraid to go there themselves. Staying safe in Manila is pretty easy. Don't walk around slums - especially at night time - avoid public transport, and avoid flashing around your wealth. The city is as safe as you make it. If you stay in the center of Makati or BGC, it feels like any other city on the planet.
Some other tips
Use Grab or Uber instead of taxis
Don't walk around with earphones in
Watch your bag
Ignore the random people that pester you at the airport
All in all, Manila looks a lot more dangerous than it is. The majority of Filipinos are friendly welcoming people, but like anywhere on the planet there are a few sour grapes. The most dangerous thing you can do in the country is get into a car. 32 people dies a day on the roads. Compared to these odds. I think your chances of getting blown up or abducted are pretty slim.
Written 26 May 2017
How much is the average cost for a Calesa ride in Intramuros? (I think it's 250pesos to 500pesos a person I heard)
Written 11 March 2017
I took a guide who had a pedal powered trike. He was great and he took my girlfriend and I around and stopped regularly to explain what we were looking at and also the history. In total he took about 2.5 hours to show us everything including a tour of the fort. We had agreed on a price of 350 pesos, but I was so happy with his services that I gave him a very generous tip. I must have made his day when I gave him 1000 pesos and told him to take the rest of the day off. People might criticize me for giving so much, but these people work very hard for almost no income and he more than eared the money in my opinion.
Written 30 December 2017
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