Our favourite places to stay on this sleepy Cebu island.

Who says you need to pay for a museum ticket to see a masterpiece? In 2026, the streets of the Philippines have officially become the loudest, most unfiltered galleries in the country. From massive skyscraper murals in Taguig to the grit of Taft Avenue, urban art isn't just "vandalism" anymore—it’s the heartbeat of our cities. If you’re looking for a visual feast that won’t cost you a single centavo, here are the top spots where the walls actually talk.
Also read: Support #artph: 18 Young Filipino Illustrators to Commission for Portraits!

Image credit: National Commission for Culture and the Arts Official Facebook Page
In 2013, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), commissioned renowned Filipino muralist AG Saño to draw over the mighty cylindrical structures of Nagtahan Bridge. More than an eyeful in terms of scale and detail, the paintings have become an integral part of the structure.
The idea is certainly inspired. Famous Filipino heroes such as Rajah Sulayman and Andres Bonifacio are immortalised on the concrete pillars that hold up the bridge. The placement has always left an impression on me; they seem to say that these heroes are the ones that hold the bridge firm and strong. Evidently, it is a sight to behold, even when you’re just passing under the bridge. What more if you get to really observe its details?

Image credit: Daniel Go
BGC remains the gold standard for public art, especially with the return of the Meeting of Styles Philippines in April 2026. This global graffiti event has turned even more parking garages and power vaults into canvases for international heavyweights and local legends like Egg Fiasco and Quiccs.
Pro Tip: Use the ArtBGC online map to track down the newest 2026 additions, including the "interwoven community" murals that have replaced some of the older, decommissioned pieces.

Image credit: Cinema Centenario Official Facebook Page
Maginhawa is where art meets your next food coma. While the famous superhero murals of years past have become permanent landmarks, 2026 has seen a surge of "community-centric" art. Now, you’ll find vibrant, floor-to-ceiling pieces on the walls of new micro-cinemas and coffee shops that celebrate the return of QC’s indie creative scene. It’s the perfect backdrop for a weekend crawl..

Image credit: Rai Cruz Official Website
It may not be as obvious today, but Taft Avenue was once known as a hub for graffiti art in the Philippines. Try walking from Pedro Gil to Vito Cruz, and you are bound to still see some murals. One thing is for sure, Taft Avenue continues to lend itself to unbridled artistry for street art in the Philippines.

Image credit: Poblacion Market Central Official Facebook Page
Like Maginhawa, Poblacion Street in Makati has become another go-to bar and food centre for weekend warriors. And again, like Maginhawa Street, it has also become a crucible for creatives who bravely take on the district and make its walls their own canvas. Its growth is fascinating to observe and you can enjoy it on a night with good food and drinks.
From its interiors to its exteriors, U.P. Town Center is abundant in visions and artworks from various perspectives — aside from its walls, its ceilings also have murals. Members of the UP Graphic (Graphic Illustration Collaborate), an organisation based in the College of Fine Arts in the University of the Philippines – Diliman (UP Diliman), take credit for these vibrant artworks.

Image credit: UPFCA Official Facebook Page
The state university deserves a lot of recognition for being one of the pioneers of street art in the Philippines. UP Diliman hosts a lot of murals on its building walls; some of their artists even came in from different parts of the country. Their College of Fine Arts building alone boasts impeccable visuals painted on its concrete. Be sure to look out for works from the art collective Gerilya!

Image credit: Crave Park PH Official Facebook Page
Marikina is currently leaning hard into its "Creative City" identity. While older food hubs like Crave Park have evolved, the art has migrated to the Marikina Riverbanks and the newly rehabilitated Jesus Dela Peña Recreational Park. These spots now feature massive murals that celebrate the city's shoemaking heritage and community resilience, making it a staple stop for any 2026 art tour.

Image credit: Jussi Mononen
The last time I visited Intramuros, I found clean walls in place of what used to be a haven for street art. I was disappointed to see the change, but it would be illegal to draw over the newly painted walls.
The Walled City is finally getting its "street" edge back. The Maestranza Creative Quarter has officially opened its doors, turning 16th-century chambers into a modern creative hub for muralists and designers. Keep an eye out for the Gerilya collective’s mythology-themed pieces, which prove that even centuries-old walls can handle a fresh coat of paint.
Also read: DIY Walking Tour in the Walled City of Intramuros: Top 8 Attractions to Visit

Image credit: Venazir Martinez Official Facebook Page
The Summer Capital of the Philippines is a timeless beauty; now with street art in the Philippines becoming popular, Baguio just became a lot cooler, literally and figuratively. Most muralists in Baguio celebrate the history and culture of the region. All of their pieces are festive, colourful, and most importantly, evocative.
Also read: Modeka Art: How This Art Gallery Is Thriving Amid the Pandemic
Street art in the Philippines is officially in its "Golden Era." It’s no longer just about quick tags in hidden alleys; it’s about massive, 10-storey statements that define our cities. These painted stories might fade or get replaced, but that’s the beauty of it—the urban gallery is always evolving. So, charge your camera, grab your most comfortable sneakers, and go see these masterpieces before the next artist makes their mark.
Featured image: No Future Foundation | Official Facebook Page
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