Manila is teeming with fun activities that you need not go on a grueling trip out of town just to have fun. You simply have to know what's happening where, so you can take advantage of what the city has to offer. Below, we've got day trip ideas you can choose from depending on your interests and budget. Grab your buddy now and conquer the city one fun activity at a time!
What to do: Go on a food trip around Binondo.
When to go: You can check out the Old Manila Walks schedule here, or you can schedule a private tour with your friends and family.
Budget: They have an all-you-can-eat package at P1200. That's for 3.5 hours of nothing but good food!
Go with: Your foodie friends and family, so you can gorge on authentic Chinese dishes.
What to do: Get a load of art and history at the National Museum.
When to go: The National Museum is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Budget: Just pay the P50 admission fee for students (free admission on Sundays!).
Go with: Your favorite study buddy, so you can bond over art and history.
What to do: Go back in time at the Intramuros Walking Tour.
When to go: You can check Carlos Celdran's website for his updated tour schedules. We suggest you go on a Saturday.
Budget: For students, it's P600 for three hours of history and entertainment (courtesy of Carlos Celdran).
Go with: Your classmate who's big on history, so you can discover more about our country while on tour.
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What to do: Have a Science Appreciation Day at The Mind Museum.
When to go: The Mind Museum is open Tuesday to Friday plus Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Saturdays, the museum is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Budget: The Mind Museum has different ticket rates depending on how big or small your group is. You may check them out here.
Go with: Your lab partner, so you can ace that next experiment in class. Your little brother who just loves science might want to tag along, too!
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What to do: Go biking at the Marikina Riverbanks Center
When to go: We would suggest going on a Saturday or Sunday morning. It's the perfect time to get active!
Budget: You may bring your own bike or rent one for P50 and up/hour.
Go with: Bring the whole family, so you can burn calories while having fun.
What to do: Gorge on yummy fare at the Salcedo Saturday Market or the Legazpi Sunday Market
When to go: Grab good grub on Saturday/Sunday brunch.
Budget: Food can get a bit pricey, so prepare around P300 for one dish.
Go with: Your lunch buddies, so you can be experimental in trying out international fare.
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What to do: Volunteer at a local non-profit organization
When to go: Devote a whole Saturday or Sunday, so you can give back the most you can.
Budget: All you have to pay for is your transportation cost.
Go with: Your friends who love to do volunteer work, so you can be more inspired to do good for the community.
What to do: Get your geek on at Bookay Ukay
When to go: The store is open every day from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., so drop by whenever you're free!
Budget: You can get books for less than P100, though newer titles can go up to P500.
Go with: Your bookworm buddy who has great taste in literature, so you can get great book recommendations.
What to do: Revisit the Manila Ocean Park
When to go: The Manila Ocean Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Be sure to check the schedules of your chosen attractions, so you won't be late!
Budget: Ticket packages are available depending on what you want to do. Check them out here.
Go with: Bring your siblings and your favorite cousins, so you can enjoy learning more about your favorite sea creatures.
What to do: Catch free French flicks at Alliance Française de Manille
When to go: Alliance always has free screenings. Just be sure to regularly check the schedules here.
Budget: You just have to pay for your transportation. Better if you already have a ride available!
Go with: Your French (or at least French-speaking) friend, who can explain things for you when the subtitles just won't do.