Intramuros Tour 101 offers history enthusiasts and curious wanderers a chance to step back in time and explore the heart of old Manila. This guided tour takes guests on an immersive journey through the walled city, bringing to life its architectural marvels and the remarkable stories that shaped the Philippines’ past. From the formidable Fort Santiago to the hallowed halls of the Manila Cathedral, each stop on the tour promises to captivate and enlighten. Whether you’re a local seeking to deepen your connection to your heritage or a visitor eager to uncover the city’s rich cultural tapestry, this tour provides a unique opportunity to …

Key Points

  • The Intramuros Tour explores the historic walled city of Old Manila, covering iconic sites like Fort Santiago, the Manila Cathedral, and the Memorare Manila 1945 monument.
  • The tour provides insights into the life and legacy of national hero Jose Rizal, including the site of his imprisonment and the Rizal Museum.
  • Visitors can experience the eerie atmosphere of the WWII dungeons, where civilians suffered and died during the Battle of Manila.
  • The tour highlights the architectural and cultural heritage of Intramuros, with stops at the San Agustin Church and the Casa Manila museum.
  • The tour offers a comprehensive understanding of Intramuros’ historical significance, providing a window into the Philippines’ colonial past and the resilience of its people.

Tour Overview

The Intramuros Tour offers a captivating exploration of Old Manila, known as the Walled City, at $70.00 per person.

The tour lasts 2 hours and is available at various starting times. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour highlights include visiting Fort Santiago, the Rizal Museum, Manila Cathedral, and paying tribute at the Memorare Manila 1945 monument.

Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible and includes a live English and German-speaking guide, entrance tickets, and all necessary tips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Highlights of the Tour

Captivating exploration of Old Manila awaits visitors on the Intramuros Tour. Visitors will start by discovering the old military camp and site of the Rizal Museum at Fort Santiago.

Next, they’ll learn about the National Hero of the Philippines, Jose Rizal, who was imprisoned at this very location.

The tour also includes:

  1. A visit to the Dungeons where civilians died during WWII.
  2. An opportunity to pay tribute at Memorare Manila 1945 to the 100,000 civilians who perished in the Battle of Manila.
  3. Exploration of the Manila Cathedral, the second oldest church in the Philippines.

These highlights provide a comprehensive understanding of Intramuros’ rich history and cultural significance.

Exploring Intramuros

After exploring the highlights of the Intramuros Tour, visitors explore the captivating history and rich culture of this walled city.

They’ll discover the iconic Fort Santiago, where national hero Jose Rizal was imprisoned before his execution. The tour then takes them to the Manila Cathedral, the second oldest church in the Philippines, and the Memorare Manila 1945 monument, a tribute to the 100,000 civilians who perished during the Battle of Manila.

Along the way, they’ll visit additional sites like Casa Manila and San Agustin Church, learning about the city’s Spanish colonial heritage.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Intramuros’ enduring significance in Philippine history.

Visiting Fort Santiago

One of the highlights of the Intramuros Tour is the visit to Fort Santiago, the old military camp and site of the Rizal Museum. This historic fortress holds immense significance as the place where Jose Rizal, the National Hero of the Philippines, was imprisoned before his execution.

Visitors can explore the Dungeons, where civilians tragically died during World War II, and pay tribute at the Memorare Manila 1945 monument, which honors the 100,000 civilians who perished during the Battle of Manila.

The tour also includes:

  1. Discovering the rich history and architecture of the fort.
  2. Learning about Rizal’s life and his impact on the Philippines.
  3. Reflecting on the sacrifices made by the people during the war.

Learning About Jose Rizal

As part of the Intramuros Tour, visitors explore the life and legacy of Jose Rizal, the revered National Hero of the Philippines.

At Fort Santiago, they learn how Rizal was imprisoned and executed by the Spanish colonial authorities for his revolutionary writings.

Visitors explore the Rizal Museum, which showcases Rizal’s personal belongings and chronicles his remarkable life.

They discover the dungeons where civilians perished during World War II, gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and struggles that shaped the Philippines’ history.

Discovering the Dungeons

Visitors exploring the Intramuros Tour will descend into the chilling Dungeons, where civilians tragically perished during the Battle of Manila in World War II.

This somber experience offers a glimpse into the horrors of the past. The Dungeons feature:

  1. Narrow, dimly lit passageways that once held prisoners and civilians.
  2. Remnants of the battle, including bullet holes and crumbling walls.
  3. Interpretive displays that recount the harrowing stories of the victims.

Descending into the Dungeons provides a powerful and humbling reminder of the sacrifices made during the war.

This poignant stop on the Intramuros Tour offers a profound connection to the city’s complex history.

Visiting Manila Cathedral

After exploring the somber Dungeons, the Intramuros Tour continues to the Manila Cathedral, the second oldest church in the Philippines.

This impressive cathedral boasts impressive architecture, featuring a mix of Baroque and Gothic styles. Visitors can admire the grand façade, ornate interiors, and intricate carvings.

The cathedral has a long and storied history, having been rebuilt numerous times after being destroyed by natural disasters and wars.

Today, it stands as a symbol of the resilience and faith of the Filipino people.

Touring the Manila Cathedral offers a chance to step back in time and gain insight into the country’s rich religious heritage.

Additional Sites to See

Along With the highlights mentioned, the Intramuros Tour also includes visits to several other notable sites within the historic walled city.

This includes:

  1. Casa Manila, a restored 19th-century house that provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Philippine elite during the Spanish colonial era.

  2. San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest stone church in the Philippines, known for its exquisite Baroque architecture.

  3. Baluarte de Dilao, one of the remaining bastions or fortified walls that once surrounded Intramuros, offering impressive views of the city skyline.

These additional stops on the tour give visitors a more comprehensive understanding of the rich history and cultural heritage of Intramuros.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Tour Include Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off?

The tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests are responsible for getting themselves to the meeting point provided. The tour focuses on exploring the historic sites within Intramuros during the 2-hour walking experience.

Are Any COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place During the Tour?

The tour operator has implemented COVID-19 safety measures, including requiring face masks, providing hand sanitizer, and limiting group sizes to allow for social distancing. Participants must follow all safety protocols during the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit specific interests. Travelers can request additional sites or adjustments to the itinerary by contacting the tour provider. Customization options are available to ensure a personalized experience.

What Should Participants Bring or Wear for the Tour?

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection like a hat or sunscreen. Bringing a water bottle is also recommended to stay hydrated during the 2-hour tour of Intramuros, the historic Walled City.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts or package deals. However, there’s a "reserve now & pay later" option, allowing guests to book without upfront payment. Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Recap

Intramuros Tour 101 offers an immersive exploration of Old Manila’s rich cultural heritage. Guests can enjoy a guided tour featuring significant sites like Fort Santiago, the Rizal Museum, and the iconic Manila Cathedral. With accessibility options and flexible cancellation policies, this tour highlights the architectural beauty and historical significance, honoring the memories of those lost during tumultuous times. It’s an informative and practical way to discover the wonders of Intramuros.