The "Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour" offers travelers a chance to uncover the captivating blend of old and new in the Philippines’ bustling capital. From the financial district of Makati to the historic walls of Intramuros, this immersive experience showcases the city’s diverse cultural heritage. With knowledgeable live commentary, comfortable transportation, and convenient hotel pickups, the tour provides an enriching opportunity to explore Manila’s significant landmarks, including the poignant American Cemetery and the UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church. Whether you’re seeking to explore the city’s rich history or witness its modern vibrancy, this tour promises an insightful and engaging exploration.
Key Points
- This 4-hour tour showcases the contrasting modern and historical aspects of Manila, including the financial district of Makati and the colonial Intramuros district.
- Highlights include visits to the American Cemetery, UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church, and Fort Santiago, providing insights into the city’s diverse heritage.
- The tour includes hotel pickups in Makati City and Bay Area, with all entrance fees and a licensed English-speaking guide included.
- Customers generally praise the knowledgeable guides, the well-organized transportation, and the enjoyable stops along the tour, though some note room for improvement in communication.
- The tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the vibrant and multilayered nature of Manila, from its economic significance to its colonial past.
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Tour Overview
The Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour provides an immersive experience, exploring the city’s rich past and vibrant present.
Priced from €54.29 per person, the tour lasts 4 hours and is conducted in English. Hotel pickup is included for those staying in Makati City and the Bay Area, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
A live tour guide is provided throughout the journey. The tour covers highlights such as the financial district of Makati, the American Cemetery, the historic Intramuros district, and the iconic Fort Santiago.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and smoking, luggage, and large bags aren’t allowed.
Itinerary Highlights
Explore Manila’s past and present on this comprehensive city tour.
You’ll visit the financial center of Makati, drive through the affluent Forbes Park, and stop at the American Cemetery and Memorial, the largest American memorial outside the U.S.
Then, explore the historic Intramuros district, seeing ancient walls and church ruins.
Tour the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Conclude at the iconic Fort Santiago, where national hero Dr. Jose Rizal spent his final days.
This tour provides an insightful look into Manila’s rich history and modern development.
Tour Inclusions
This tour includes return hotel transfers for guests staying in Makati City or the Bay Area.
All entrance fees are covered, including visits to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Agustin Church. A licensed tour guide accompanies guests throughout the tour, providing commentary in English.
Transportation is by air-conditioned van. Food and beverages aren’t included, but gratuities are optional.
Guests should wear comfortable shoes and are advised not to bring smoking items, luggage, or large bags. Traffic delays are common, so guests should plan accordingly.
Confirmation emails with pickup details are provided prior to the tour.
Important Information
Guests should wear comfortable shoes for this tour, which covers a lot of ground. Smoking, luggage, and large bags are not allowed. Expect delays due to Manila’s notorious traffic, so participants should plan accordingly. Confirmation emails with pickup details will be provided.
| What to Bring | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Comfortable Shoes | Smoking |
| Luggage | |
| Large Bags |
Confirmation emails will be sent with pickup details. Traffic delays are anticipated, so participants should account for them in their planning.
Customer Reviews
The Manila City Tour has received an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 306 customer reviews. Customers have praised the knowledgeable guides, who provide an enjoyable and informative experience.
The tour’s transportation also received high marks, with a 4.6/5 rating. However, some customers noted that the service and organization could be improved, with a 4.3/5 rating for each.
Additionally:
- Travelers should expect heavy traffic delays and plan accordingly.
- The tour guides received a 4.5/5 rating for their expertise.
- Customers highlighted the tour’s enjoyable stops and the ability to explore Manila’s past and present.
- Some feedback mentioned the need for better communication regarding pickup details.
City of Makati
As part of the Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour, travelers explore the City of Makati, the financial center of the Philippines.
Makati is home to the country’s tallest skyscrapers and bustling commercial districts. During the tour, visitors drive through Forbes Park, an affluent residential area, and the American Cemetery and Memorial, the largest American memorial outside the U.S.
The tour provides a glimpse into the modern and dynamic side of Manila, complementing the historic Intramuros district.
With a knowledgeable guide, travelers gain insights into Makati’s role as the economic heart of the Philippines and witness the juxtaposition of old and new in the nation’s capital.
Intramuros District
During the Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour, visitors walk through the historic Intramuros district, the walled city that was the center of Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines.
Here, they can:
- View the ancient stone walls and remnants of churches and buildings that date back to the 16th century.
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Agustin Church, one of the oldest churches in the country.
- Explore the cobblestone streets and alleyways, stepping back in time to experience the colonial atmosphere.
- Conclude the tour at the iconic Fort Santiago, where national hero Dr. Jose Rizal spent his final days.
American Cemetery and Memorial
After exploring the historic Intramuros district, the tour then drives through Forbes Park and the American Cemetery and Memorial, the largest American military cemetery outside the United States.
This solemn site honors over 17,000 American soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II. Visitors can walk through the immaculate grounds, lined with rows of white marble crosses and stars of David.
The memorial walls display the names of those missing in action. This somber stop provides a chance to reflect on the significant role the United States played in the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Join the Tour?
The tour is open to children. However, the tour provider does not provide specific details about child pricing or any child-friendly accommodations. Interested customers should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about options for bringing children on the tour.
Is the Tour Wheelchair-Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair-accessible. The itinerary includes stops at sites with ramps and elevators. The air-conditioned van used for transportation can accommodate wheelchairs. Guests with mobility needs are welcome to join the tour.
Are There Any Discounts for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour does not provide any specific discounts for senior citizens or students. Pricing is set at a flat rate per person. However, the tour description indicates free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?
The tour can be customized to the customers’ preferences, though specific details like itinerary changes may incur additional costs. It’s best to discuss any customization requests directly with the tour operator prior to booking.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Casual attire is appropriate, as the focus is on exploring the city’s sights rather than formal wear.
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Recap
The "Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour" offers an enriching exploration of the Philippines’ vibrant history and modern vibrancy. Guests will enjoy the bustling financial district of Makati, visit the poignant American Cemetery, and discover the historic walls of Intramuros, including the UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago. With knowledgeable live commentary, comfortable transportation, and convenient hotel pickups, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to uncover Manila’s diverse cultural heritage.