Despite all the traffic and chaos that being an urban jungle brings, it cannot be denied that Manila has its distinct charm. Boasting historical buildings, lush parks, and artsy restaurants, this beautiful city can easily amp up your Instagram feed. With lots of destinations to fuel your creative juices, we’re giving you 20 spots in the city that scream “Instagram-worthy!”.
Also read: 17 Coolest Staycation Ideas in Manila
1. Fort Santiago
Intramuros is definitely a must-see for anyone visiting Manila. One of the most iconic places to take a picture inside the famous walled city is the entrance of Fort Santiago, a fort built way back when the Philippines was under Spanish colonial rule.
2. Baluarte de San Diego
What was once simply a bastion in Intramuros, is now a place where one can hold special events. Or simply, take nice pictures like this one.
3. San Agustin Church
Also located inside the walled city of Intramuros, this world heritage site’s intricate carved door makes for a dramatic backdrop for OOTDs. It is also very interesting on its own due to its elaborate details. The church also has a lot more Instagram-worthy places inside like its inner garden and vast hallways. You can make an entire Instagram album here!
4. Luneta Hotel
One of Manila’s historical hotels, the Luneta Hotel is an elegant structure along Kalaw Avenue (formerly T.M. Kalaw Street). Walking into its doors seems to bring you back to 1918, the year that the hotel originally opened. With its grand interiors, you won’t have a problem taking great photos for your feed.
5. Paco Park
What once had an eerie past as a cemetery is now one of the most beautiful parks in the country. Paco park, located in Paco, Manila, is now a place where one can take a break, watch concerts, and of course, take fabulous pictures. It even has a little chapel where one can get married! Did you know that Jose Rizal was once buried here?
6. Rizal Park
Rizal Park, known to others as Luneta Park, is the place to go if you want to show others that you are in Manila. The historical park is where the Philippine hero Jose Rizal is currently interred. You can take a leisurely stroll around the park after taking pictures in front of the Rizal Monument.
7. Manila Post Office
A magnificent structure located at the foot of Jones Bridge in Manila, the Manila Post Office will instantly give you interesting photos and classy OOTDs.
8. Cafe Noriter
Located in Estrada St. Malate, Manila, Cafe Noriter is a favourite of college students in the area. All corners of this Korean cafe is Instagram-worthy and really popular on the photo-sharing app. See the number of tags yourself!
9. Casa Manila
Casa Manila is a museum that is also located in the historical area of Intramuros. Here you get to see what life was like back in the Spanish colonial times.
10. Binondo, Manila
Recognised as the world’s oldest chinatown, a walk around the colourful area of Binondo will certainly inspire you to take your smartphone or camera and start snapping away!
Also read: Our DIY Binondo Food Trip: Where to Eat & Tips
11. National Museum of the Philippines
Located in Padre Burgos Ave., Ermita, Manila, the National Museum of the Philippines is the place to go if you want to add a combination of glamour and history to your feed.
12. Ayala Triangle Gardens
Really popular for its light and sounds show during Christmas season called the “Festival of Lights”, Ayala Triangle Gardens has Instagram-worthy structures like on this picture. You can also take pictures amidst the garden’s trees and shrubs if you love nature.
13. Art in Island
Art in Island is a 3D art museum located in Cubao, Quezon City. It is the perfect place for taking fun pictures with family and friends.
14. Ball Pit Manila
Ball Pit Manila is an adult playground located in Makati. It is full off, well, thousands of white balls that look oh-so-pretty in photos. You can’t help but feel like a kid again here.
15. Jump Yard
Located in Pasig, Jump Yard is the Philippine’s first indoor Trampoline park. Perfect for kids-at-heart, this place has fun all over it and this is sure to resonate on your Instagram feed.
16. Art in BGC
Some of Bonifacio Global City’s walls are painted with murals that are perfect backgrounds for your OOTDs or candid shots. Your friends will surely think your feed is cool after this.
17. Manila Baywalk
Spectacular is the word to describe Manila Bay’s famous sunset which many Instagrammers strive to capture. The baywalk is equally impressive during daytime.
Also read: I Love Manila and Here’s Why You Should Too
18. Blackbird at the Nielson Tower
Situated in the Nielson Tower of the former Manila International Airport at Ayala Triangle, Blackbird is a gorgeous restaurant with lots of beautiful spots to take Instagram photos. The place lights up at night with the tall, Makati skyscrapers as backdrop.
19. Lazy Bastard
Although famous for their hotdogs and burgers, the neon “long live bacon” sign at Lazy Bastard always steals the show for Instagrammers. Everyone will know you’ve checked out the hip place once you post this.
20. Neil’s Kitchen
Take a picture of the spiral staircase at Neil’s Kitchen and avid Instagrammers will know you visited this highly-raved restaurant in Alabang. Not only does it look extremely artsy, they also serve good food.
Also read: Exploring the Philippine Capital: Top 8 Things to Do in Manila
Manila truly has a lot to offer in our world where sharing memories through social media has become the norm. The lights, the sounds, and many corners are just waiting to be explored! We hope to see your Instagram photos in Manila soon!
