Manila Cathedral Tours and Activities

Manila Cathedral showing religious elements, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
Manila Cathedral
Manila Cathedral featuring a statue or sculpture and a monument
Manila Cathedral showing heritage architecture, religious aspects and a church or cathedral
Manila Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, religious aspects and interior views


This richly decorated Roman Catholic Basilica has made it through the centuries despite being destroyed by fires, bombs and earthquakes.

Manila Cathedral is a great survivor. The current cathedral is the eighth incarnation on this spot since the church’s founding in 1581. The last rebuilding project was completed in 1958 after it was destroyed by bombs during World War II. Visit the cathedral to admire its decorative interior.

Start your tour of the building by looking over some of the notable features of its neo-Romanesque facade. The bronze panels on the church’s main door depict key moments in its history including the collapse of the first building in 1600. Look for the white disc at the top of the façade just under the cross. It features a large insignia of the papal keys and papal tiara to commemorate the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1981. Admire the stone statues of saints.

Once inside, turn around to look at the choir loft above the entrance. It contains the pipe organ, one of the largest in the Far East.

Walk down the central nave to the principal altar which has a life-size gilded bronze statue of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. Appreciate the designs and colors of the church’s stained glass windows. There are more than 130 including eights pairs of windows inside the cathedral’s dome.

Go down the right and left naves to explore sculptures, paintings and decorative altarpieces of the eight side chapels. Examine the mosaic inside The Chapel of St. Peter and the bronze relief on the altar inside The Chapel of the Sacred Heart and the Blessed Sacrament. 

As you make your way through the cathedral, note the abundance of marble. Many of the altars are made of marble as are the pulpit and the Episcopal Throne. The cathedral floor and the chapels are paved with the rock.

The cathedral is situated in the old walled city of Intramuros and can easily be reached by taxi. Alternatively, you can ride the light rail to Carriedo Station and take a jeepney from there.

The Cathedral of Manila is open daily. Admission is free. For the schedule of masses and special services visit the church’s official website.

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Best Lodging Options Near Manila Cathedral

The Bayleaf Intramuros Hotel

The Bayleaf Intramuros Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Muralla Corner Victoria Streets, Intramuros, Manila, Manila
The Bayleaf Intramuros Hotel
White Knight Hotel Intramuros

White Knight Hotel Intramuros

3 out of 5
Plaza San Luis Complex General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, Manila
White Knight Hotel Intramuros
The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel

5 out of 5
One Rizal Park, Manila
The Manila Hotel
Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central

Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central

4 out of 5
Ongpin cor. Quintin Paredes Streets, Manila, Manila
Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central
Red Planet Manila Binondo

Red Planet Manila Binondo

3 out of 5
251-61 Juan Luna St., Binondo, Manila
Red Planet Manila Binondo
City Garden Suites Manila

City Garden Suites Manila

3 out of 5
1158 A. Mabini St. Ermita, Manila, Manila
City Garden Suites Manila
Hotel H2O

Hotel H2O

4 out of 5
Luneta, (Behind the Quirino Grandstand), Manila
Hotel H2O
Diamond Hotel Philippines

Diamond Hotel Philippines

5 out of 5
Roxas Blvd Cor Dr J Quintos, Manila, Manila
Diamond Hotel Philippines
Lucky Hotel Binondo

Lucky Hotel Binondo

2.5 out of 5
589 Quintin Paredes Road,, Binondo, Manila, Manila
Lucky Hotel Binondo
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Manila Cathedral

While visiting Manila Cathedral, take advantage of the nearby shopping opportunities, including bustling shopping malls and local tourist stalls. Explore various shopping destinations that offer a mix of souvenirs, local crafts, and Filipino delicacies, making your visit a well-rounded experience of culture and commerce.

Shopping

The closest shopping options to Manila Cathedral include Makati Central Post Office, located 4.8km away, and the vibrant Greenbelt Shopping Mall and SM Mall of Asia, both 6.4km away, offering a mix of entertainment and shopping experiences.

Recreation

Ninoy Aquino Stadium offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, located 3.2km from Manila Cathedral. For a touch of luxury, the Manila Yacht Club invites relaxation at its exclusive setting, also 3.2km away. Meanwhile, Intramuros Golf Course, only 483m away, provides a refreshing outdoor golfing experience.

Adventure

Splash Island, a vibrant waterpark 35.4km from Manila Cathedral, offers thrilling slides and family-friendly attractions. For an adrenaline rush, venture to 360° View, located 19.3km away, providing breathtaking views and exciting activities. Club Manila East, 17.7km away, is another fantastic waterpark brimming with fun and adventure.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Manila Cathedral is vibrant and culturally rich. Enjoy a performance at the Manila Metropolitan Theatre, just half 1.6km away, or immerse yourself in the arts at Dulaang Rajah Sulayman Theatre, a short 483m away. Both venues offer a delightful blend of entertainment and family-friendly vibes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Manila Cathedral

Whether you're seeking culture, family experiences, or a taste of history, Manila Cathedral offers a variety of attractions, including churches, urban parks, and historic forts. While exploring the area, you can find motels nearby and discover other points of interest within a few kilometres, ensuring a well-rounded visit to this iconic landmark in the heart of Manila.

  • Rizal Park: This urban park, located 1.1km from Manila Cathedral, is a vibrant green space perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy leisurely strolls amidst beautiful gardens, historical monuments, and lively city vibes, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.
  • Fort Santiago: A mere 483m from the cathedral, this historic fort offers a glimpse into the Philippines' rich cultural heritage. Explore its well-preserved structures and learn about the nation's history, all while soaking in the captivating atmosphere of this significant landmark.
  • Quiapo Church: Situated 1.3km away, Quiapo Church is a cultural icon known for its stunning architecture and vibrant community. Experience the spiritual ambiance and local traditions, making it a must-visit for those interested in Philippine culture and religious practices.

Best time to go to Manila Cathedral

The best time to visit Manila Cathedral is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January78.1°F (25.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March81.5°F (27.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April84.2°F (29.0°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May85.5°F (29.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June83.5°F (28.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
July82.0°F (27.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August81.7°F (27.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
September81.7°F (27.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November81.1°F (27.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Manila Cathedral

To save money during your visit to Manila Cathedral, consider travelling in the off-peak months of May and August to September when accommodation prices are lower. Sundays are the most affordable days to stay, while Wednesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to filter by budget and eco-friendly options for better deals. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Look out for special offers and sort prices from low to high to find the best rates on your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Manila Cathedral are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Manila Cathedral is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Manila Cathedral is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Manila Cathedral with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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