Manila: Old and New City Tour with Rizal Park

If you’re visiting the Philippines and want a well-rounded taste of Manila—its colonial past and its buzzing contemporary life—this tour is a good option. For $112, you get to see some of the city’s most iconic sites, including Rizal Park, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and the modern Makati financial district. The tour is organized by Gladex Travel and Tours Corp. and lasts a full day, giving you a group experience that balances history, culture, and a pinch of modern Filipino hustle.

We particularly like that the tour offers a drive-by view of Rizal Park, making it easy for those with limited time or mobility to enjoy the landscape, and a walk through Intramuros, where the Spanish colonial era is palpable. The visit to San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is both beautiful and historically significant. Plus, slamming into the modern scene with a quick look at Makati’s skyscrapers and a shopping stop at the Mall of Asia really captures the essence of Manila’s contrasts.

A possible drawback? The schedule is quite packed, and some museums may be closed on Mondays, which could limit what you see if your trip falls on that day. Also, the tour includes a lot of moving around—so if you prefer a leisurely pace or detailed museum visits, you might find yourself wishing for more time at each stop. Still, this tour suits travelers who want a rundown in a day, especially those eager to experience both the historic and the modern sides of Manila.

If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates a balanced itinerary—mixing history, culture, and contemporary flair—this tour offers a solid introduction. It’s particularly good for first-timers or those wanting an efficient way to see key highlights without the hassle of planning each step.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines historical sites with modern city highlights.
• Affordable Value: At $112, it covers major attractions with guided insight.
• Convenient Transportation: Drive-by views and a running tour minimize walking fatigue.
• Cultural Insight: Visits to Rizal Museum and Fort Santiago provide context about Filipino history.
• Photogenic Stops: Rizal Park, San Agustin Church, and Makati offer great photo opportunities.
• Limited Museum Access on Mondays: Be aware some sites may be closed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Manila: What You’ll Discover on This Tour

When you sign up for the Manila: Old and New City Tour with Rizal Park, you’re in for a day that balances the echoes of the past with the buzz of modern Filipino life. It’s a practical way to get your bearings in Manila, especially if your time is limited or you’d rather see the highlights without the stress of city navigation.

Starting with Rizal Park and Intramuros

The tour kicks off with a drive-by of Rizal Park, an open space dedicated to Dr. José Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero. From the bus, you’ll get a quick look at the sprawling green lawns, statues, and the iconic Rizal Monument. This park is the perfect introduction, setting the tone for understanding Filipino pride and history.

Next, you’ll head into Intramuros, the “Walled City,” which is the historic heart of Manila. Your guide, likely a local with deep knowledge, will point out key sights and share snippets about Spanish colonial rule. The visit to Fort Santiago is especially noteworthy. Once a military fortress, today it’s a tangible reminder of the colonial past, with The Dungeons giving a glimpse of the prison cells where prisoners were held during the Spanish era. Inside Fort Santiago, you’ll also find the Jose Rizal Museum, which displays memorabilia and exhibits that shed light on Rizal’s life and his execution—an event that sparked the Filipino revolution.

The Significance of San Agustin and Casa Manila

From Fort Santiago, a quick photo stop at San Agustin Church is a must. As the oldest stone church in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its intricate baroque architecture and peaceful interior are impressive. The church’s history and resilience make it a highlight, especially if you’re interested in religious architecture.

Adjacent to the church, the tour includes a glimpse of Casa Manila, a museum showcasing colonial-era Filipino lifestyle. While this may not be a full tour of the house, the photo stop offers insight into the domestic life during Spanish rule, with period furniture, décor, and typical Filipino elegance.

Transitioning to the Modern Manila

After soaking in the historic side, the tour shifts gears with a running tour of Makati, the bustling financial hub. You’ll pass by skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and upscale shopping centers, illustrating how Manila’s economy has grown in recent decades. This contrast to Intramuros highlights the city’s vibrant, fast-paced development.

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The Shopping and Memorial Experience

Next, the tour visits the Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in Asia. Here, you’ll see firsthand the modern Filipino consumer culture, with hundreds of shops, entertainment options, and waterfront views. It’s a lively place, and even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, the sheer size and energy of the mall are captivating.

Before wrapping up, you’ll stop at the American War Memorial, a peaceful site filled with graves of soldiers who fought during World War II. It’s a reflective space, offering a quiet moment amidst the city’s hustle.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Visit

The tour’s price of $112 covers most of your key site entries, including Fort Santiago, the Rizal Museum, San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, the Makati district tour, Mall of Asia, and the American War Memorial. Transportation is mainly via coach or van, making it a comfortable way to cover a lot of ground.

Timing is important—most of these stops are quick visits, especially the photo stops, so don’t expect in-depth exploration at each. Be aware that some museums might be closed on Mondays, which could restrict access to certain exhibits. If you’re a history buff, check your calendar for this.

The tour is suitable for those who prefer a guided overview rather than independent exploration. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, or travelers with limited time. Keep in mind, the pace can be busy, so if you’re someone who enjoys lingering longer at each site, you might find this tour a bit rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided experience is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Manila without the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets. It’s especially good for those interested in history, architecture, and city contrasts, and for visitors who prefer a structured day with an experienced guide to contextualize what they see.

If you’re traveling on a tight schedule but want to make the most of your time in Manila, this tour offers value and efficiency. It also works well as an introduction—either to be complemented later by independent visits or as the first step in your Filipino adventure.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Manila: Old and New City Tour with Rizal Park delivers a balanced, practical look at the capital’s story. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of Manila’s colonial legacy and modern dynamism, all in a single day. The combination of historic sites, cultural insights, and contemporary sights makes it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers who want an overview without feeling overwhelmed.

The value at $112, including transportation, guided commentary, and entry to key sites, makes this tour appealing. It’s especially well-suited for first-timers, history enthusiasts, and those eager to see the city’s highlights efficiently.

If your goal is to grasp Manila’s dual personality—its past and its progress—this tour is a solid, straightforward choice. Just be prepared for a busy day and some quick stops, but rest assured, you’ll gain a meaningful snapshot of the Philippines’ vibrant capital.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes transportation, primarily via a coach or van, making it easy to move between sites.

What sites will I visit during the tour? You’ll visit Rizal Park, Fort Santiago (including The Dungeons and Rizal Museum), San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, Makati Business District, Mall of Asia, and the American War Memorial.

Can I see the museums if I go on a Monday? Some museums may be closed on Mondays, so check the schedule or expect that you might miss certain exhibits.

How much walking is involved? The tour involves some walking, especially around Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila, but most sites are accessible with quick photo stops.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s suitable for families, though the pace might be fast for very young children. It’s good for those interested in history and city scenery.

What is the tour price? The cost is $112 per person, which covers guided visits, entrance fees, and transportation.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat before or after the tour.

Can I pay later or cancel? Yes, you can reserve with the option to pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this a private tour? No, it’s a group tour, making it a budget-friendly way to see key sights with others.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. Also, check if any site closures affect your plans.

This tour offers a practical and engaging way to see Manila’s highlights, giving you a glimpse into its history, culture, and modern energy—all in one manageable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: