Luzon isn’t just the biggest island in the Philippines; it’s also a showcase of diverse experiences that can turn any visit into a memorable adventure. Whether you’re into history, scenic hikes, or sampling local flavors, Luzon offers options that will appeal to all types of travelers. Some of our favorite experiences include the Manila Old and New sightseeing tour, which beautifully combines colonial history with modern Manila, and the Batad Guided Tour, offering a jaw-dropping view of the rice terraces carved into the mountains. These tours stand out for their immersive nature and knowledgeable guides, giving you genuine insight into Filipino culture and landscapes.
For those interested in culinary adventures, the Filipino Cooking Class in Makati and the Street Food Experience are perfect choices to dive into local flavors. If you’re seeking adventure and culture, the Banaue rice terraces trek and the Intramuros sunset bike tour provide active ways to explore Luzon’s history and natural beauty. With options ranging from urban sightseeing to mountain hikes and food explorations, Luzon truly has a lot to offer.
1. Manila Old and New: Sightseeing Tour Including Intramuros and Fort Santiago
At number 1, the Manila Old and New tour offers a comprehensive 4-hour coach experience with an expert guide. It covers both the bustling Makati financial district and the historic Intramuros, delivering a balanced view of Manila’s past and present. You’ll visit iconic sites like Nielson Tower, the American Cemetery and Memorial, and walk through Intramuros to see San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago. The tour is especially strong on storytelling, with guides sharing insights about the Spanish colonial period and heroes like Dr. Jose Rizal. The highlight is the visit to UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church’s intricate Baroque architecture.
This tour is perfect for first-timers who want an efficient overview. Reviewers praise its professionalism and depth, with comments like “felt I saw what Manila was about.” For about $60, it’s good value given the sights covered, making it ideal if you prefer a guided, structured introduction.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded introduction to Manila’s history and modern skyline, best suited for those with limited time or wanting a snapshot of the city.
2. Intramuros Walking Tour by Don’t Skip Manila
At number 2, the Intramuros Walking Tour offers a 3.5-hour deep dive into Manila’s colonial core. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 70 reviews, this tour is lauded for its engaging guide and intimate pace. You’ll explore Fort Santiago, Rizal Shrine, and Manila Cathedral, all while enjoying bottled water and light snacks. The walk through the historic streets reveals stories from pre-colonial Malay times to the Spanish era, including the life of Dr. Rizal, the national hero.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on storytelling and culture. The guide’s energetic style keeps things lively, and the walk is manageable for most fitness levels. For only $35, it’s a bargain that offers rich insights into Filipino resilience and architecture.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for history lovers and those wanting a leisurely, detailed walk through Intramuros with a personable guide.
3. Batad Guided Tour
Number 3 on our list is the Batad Guided Tour, a 6-hour trek that brings you face-to-face with the breathtaking Banaue rice terraces. Priced at $70 per group (up to five), this experience is about more than just sightseeing—it’s about connecting with local farmers and artisans whose families have cultivated these terraces for generations. You’ll hike through lush landscapes, visit the Tappiya waterfall, and observe rice processing by hand. The tour is led by a guide with deep family ties to Batad, ensuring insights into traditional farming and local life.
Guests mention how the experience is flexible—you can hike as long or as short as you wish—and the scenery is simply stunning. This tour suits active travelers looking for an authentic cultural and natural experience. The small group size enhances personal attention and safety.
Bottom Line: A fantastic full-day trek for those who want to see something truly unique and learn about Filipino agricultural traditions firsthand.
4. Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites
Number 4 features the Filipino Cooking Class in Makati, where you’ll craft traditional snacks like pancit, spring rolls, and sweet treats in a lively, family-friendly environment. For around $65, you’ll learn about Filipino ingredients and cooking techniques directly from a local family in their home. The class lasts about 2 hours and ends with you enjoying the dishes you’ve prepared, making it as much a cultural experience as a culinary lesson.
Participants rave about the friendly instructor Chyl, who shares stories about Filipino food and culture, making the class both fun and educational. It’s perfect for food lovers or anyone wanting an authentic taste of Filipino hospitality. The small class size means personalized attention, and the focus on traditional recipes adds value.
Bottom Line: An engaging, hands-on way to connect with Filipino cuisine and culture in a warm home setting.
5. Makati: Music Clubs, Rooftops, and Go Go Bars Nightlife Tour
Number 5 delivers a vibrant 4.5-hour nightlife experience in Makati. For just under $24, you get skip-the-line access to a series of lively venues, including rooftop bars with panoramic city views, live music spots, and iconic go-go bars. The tour starts at the City Garden GRAND Hotel rooftop and moves on to places like Antidote, where you can enjoy drinks with a view. It’s an energetic tour that offers a glimpse into Makati’s bustling nightlife scene, with the added bonus of local drinks and exclusive access.
Reviews highlight the tour guide’s friendly attitude and the opportunity to explore nightlife spots that are difficult to find alone. It’s ideal for younger travelers or those seeking a fun, social evening out. The flexible pacing allows you to linger or move on quickly.
Bottom Line: A lively, budget-friendly way to experience Makati’s famous nightlife, perfect for night owls and social butterflies.
6. The Hidden Gems of Manila Guided Tour
At number 6, this 2-hour tour focuses on off-the-beaten-path sites that many visitors overlook. You’ll explore local neighborhoods, see old apartments, and experience Filipino daily life in side streets, taking in sights like Santa Cruz Church. The tour emphasizes authentic cultural encounters and includes a ride in a Jeepney. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a look beyond tourist spots and enjoy local transportation and markets.
Rated 5.0 from 31 reviews, the tour is praised for its genuine feel and friendly guidance. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a quick but meaningful immersion into local life, especially those with limited time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers eager to see Manila’s authentic side beyond the usual attractions.
7. Small-Group Weekend Hiking Tour to Banaue-Ifugao from Manila
Number 7 takes you on a 4-day expedition into the heart of the Philippines’ mountain rice terraces. For $270 per person, this guided tour includes overland bus travel, stays in native villages, and hikes through stunning terraces, waterfalls, and native communities. It’s designed for those comfortable with physically demanding activities, and guides like Miller are known for their flexibility and in-depth knowledge.
Guests mention how the multi-day trek offers real cultural insight, with opportunities to chat with locals, shuck rice, and enjoy breathtaking vistas. It’s ideal for active travelers who want a deep dive into Filipino mountain life. Expect to see the eighth wonder of the world up close.
Bottom Line: A rigorous but rewarding adventure, perfect for travelers with limited time who crave connection with local communities.
8. Makati Street Food Experience with V
Number 8 features an immersive 3-hour street food tour in Makati. For $65, you’ll sample the best of Filipino street cuisine at Hott Asia Bazaar and finish with desserts at a retro diner. Your host V will teach you how Filipinos order, eat, and enjoy their local flavors, while you taste dishes like sisig, kwek-kwek, and more. The tour includes visits to lively markets and a rooftop bar with city views.
Reviews mention the food’s authenticity and the guide’s engaging style. It’s suited for adventurous eaters eager to see the local food scene firsthand. The tour is an excellent value, combining cultural insights with delicious bites.
Bottom Line: A flavorful introduction to Filipino street food, recommended for foodies and those wanting an authentic urban dining experience.
9. Intramuros Sunset Tours by Bambike
Number 9 offers a 2-hour sunset tour riding bamboo bikes through Intramuros. Priced at $37, this eco-friendly experience includes unlimited water and stops at Manila Cathedral, Plaza Roma, and Casa Manila. The sunset time makes for especially picturesque photos, and the bamboo bikes add a fun, sustainable twist. The guide points out architectural details and stories of the city’s past as you pedal through the historic district.
Guests love the relaxed pace and the sunset view, with some noting the tour’s friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a scenic, eco-conscious way to explore Manila’s colonial core.
Bottom Line: A charming, sustainable cycling experience ideal for sunset lovers and eco-conscious travelers.
10. Private Filipino Cooking Class in a Local Manila Home
Number 10 offers a private 3-hour culinary experience for $90, where you cook Filipino dishes directly in a local chef’s home. You’ll pick ingredients from their garden, learn traditional recipes, and sit down to enjoy your culinary creations. The instructor provides personalized attention, making it great for food lovers who want an authentic, hands-on experience.
Guests emphasize the warm hospitality, with many appreciating the cultural stories shared during the session. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a deeper cultural connection through food. The focus on fresh ingredients and traditional methods makes this tour both educational and delicious.
Bottom Line: An intimate, authentic cooking experience ideal for foodies and cultural explorers.
11. Manila: Binondo Walking Tour (Oldest Chinatown)
Number 11 guides you through Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, in a 2-hour walk that highlights its history and culinary delights. For just $55, you’ll visit historic temples, shop in bustling markets, and taste Chinese-Filipino specialties. Your guide shares stories of the district’s evolution and shows the best spots for photos and food.
Reviews note how informative and friendly the guide is, making it a great choice for foodies and history buffs alike. The tour balances cultural insights with tasting stops, making it an engaging and tasty local experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in Chinese Filipino culture and authentic street eats, especially in a lively, historic district.
12. Intramuros Walking Tour with Local Tour Guide
Number 12 is a 2 to 3-hour private tour with a focus on Intramuros’ most significant sites. For $55, you’ll visit Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Fort Santiago, and Casa Manila, while your guide shares stories from the Spanish era to WWII. The personalized approach ensures a deep, nuanced understanding of Manila’s core.
Guests appreciate the engaging and knowledgeable guides, with comments about how well the tour condenses centuries of history into a manageable walk. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a tailored experience with rich storytelling.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive yet personalized walk through Manila’s colonial landmarks, suitable for history enthusiasts.
13. Hidden Gems of Manila with Local Guide
Number 13 explores lesser-known sites in Tondo and nearby districts over 2 hours. You’ll ride a Jeepney, visit old buildings from 1595, and explore markets where locals shop daily. The tour emphasizes authentic Filipino life outside tourist zones.
Rated 5.0 by 23 reviews, it’s praised for its genuine nature and colorful storytelling. It’s a good pick for travelers eager to see Manila’s real, everyday side.
Bottom Line: An energetic, authentic immersion perfect for curious travelers wanting a local perspective beyond popular sights.
14. Makati “Pub Crawl & Bar Hopping” Experience with V
At number 14, this 3-hour pub crawl visits Makati’s top bars, including The Spirits Library and Run Rabbit Run. For $65, you enjoy exclusive drink deals and skip-the-line entry, exploring the city’s nightlife scene in style. The tour ends at a rooftop bar with city views, combining fun with a good introduction to Makati’s social scene.
Reviews highlight the friendly guide and the chance to see hidden bars. It’s great for travelers who like to socialize and want to experience Makati’s trendy side.
Bottom Line: A lively, social way to experience Manila’s nightlife, best suited for night owls and casual drinkers.
15. Home Cooked Meal with a Filipino Grandma
Number 15 is a warm, 2.5-hour home dining experience for $65. You’ll sit down with a Filipino family, learn about traditional dishes, and enjoy a multi-course meal. The host shares stories about Filipino customs and family life, creating an intimate cultural experience. Many reviewers love how genuine and welcoming the environment feels, with the opportunity to learn recipes and taste authentic flavors.
Ideal for travelers wanting a personal connection and to see Filipino hospitality firsthand. It’s especially suited for food lovers and those seeking a relaxed, meaningful experience.
Bottom Line: A heartfelt way to understand Filipino culture through its home-cooked dishes, perfect for small groups or couples.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Luzon
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you love history and want a quick overview, the Manila Old and New or the Intramuros Walking Tour are excellent options. For a more active experience, the Batad Rice Terraces trek or the Banaue small-group hike offer immersive natural beauty and cultural insights.
Foodies will appreciate the Filipino Cooking Class or the Street Food Experience, which reveal local flavors in authentic settings. For a fun evening, consider the Makati Nightlife Tour or the Pub Crawl, giving you a taste of Manila’s vibrant scene.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular activities like the Banaue trek or the Cooking class, to secure spots and avoid disappointment. Think about your fitness and time—active travelers should opt for multi-day treks or hikes, while those with limited time might prefer guided city tours.
To sum it up, Luzon offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from historical walks and scenic hikes to culinary adventures and lively nightlife. For a well-rounded trip, consider combining a cultural tour like the Intramuros Sunset with an authentic food experience, or if you’re after stunning landscapes, the Batad rice terraces should be on your list. Booking in advance is always a smart move, especially during peak seasons—early planning ensures you won’t miss these great opportunities to connect with Luzon’s unique character.