Me, Myself, and Manila: 10 Things to Do in Manila for a Solo Traveler
Oftentimes, it’s nice to have time for yourself. You can relax, do self-reflection or meditation, or do things that you enjoy without having to consider about the needs of other people. If you’re staying here in Manila, you don’t need to travel far or spend a fortune on flights and accommodations. You’ll find plenty of activities to do and even maximize the creature comforts and urban conveniences that are right outside your home, hotel, or accommodations.
In this article, we’ve listed the best things to do in manila for a solo traveler.
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1. Enjoy a hotel staycation
A staycation doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll keep yourself confined in your home. For example, it’s always an option to hold your staycation in Pasay hotels, where all your practical needs will be taken care of.
In addition to keeping you in proximity to plenty of good food, shopping, and entertainment options, many of Metro Manila’s stunning hotels boast breathtaking views of the skyline or scenic spots. From luxurious establishments to boutique hideaways, it’s definitely worth putting in the effort in finding the perfect accommodations that can elevate your staycation experience.
2. Go on cultural tours
Metro Manila is steeped in history and culture, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself than by visiting its iconic — and often free to the public — landmarks.
Begin your journey in the heart of Manila with a trip to Intramuros, where you can wander through centuries-old walls and cobblestone streets. Continue to Rizal Park, an expansive green space that honors the national hero, Jose Rizal. If you want a closer look at the country’s cultural, artistic, and ecological gems, check out the National Museum Complex just beside the park.
3. Food trip
Metro Manila is a haven for food enthusiasts, and a solo staycation is the perfect opportunity to embark on your own culinary adventure!
Discover vibrant food districts like Poblacion, Makati, where you can savor a myriad of international cuisines and enjoy the energetic nightlife. Maginhawa Street in Quezon City beckons students and professionals alike with its wide array of affordable dining options, while Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, invites you to indulge in delectable Chinese-Filipino dishes.
4. Unwind in urban parks
Another one of the best things to do in Manila for a solo traveler is visit the city’s urban parks, where you can escape the chaos and find temporary solace.
One of the most public parks in the city is Rizal Park — it is free and accessible regardless of your budget. You can also spend a day communing with nature and eating good food in Ayala Triangle Gardens. This park is nestled in the heart of Makati and offers a peaceful respite with its lush greenery and serene atmosphere. There’s also Bonifacio High Street Central Plaza, which creates a unique space to unwind by combining modern design with artistic installations. For a closer connection with nature, head to La Mesa Eco Park, where you can engage in activities such as boating, biking, and birdwatching.
5. Visit museums
Visiting museums is the perfect activity for a solo traveler! You can spend an afternoon immersed in works of art, learning about history and culture, or just appreciating the relics of the past and present.
There are different museums in Manila that you can visit, including the National Museum Complex, where you can also find the National Museum of Fine Arts and National Museum of Natural History. Ayala Museum and Yuchengco Museum are also worthwhile museums you should add on your list! If you’re up for a short road trip, Pinto Art Museum in Antipolo is one of the best museums in the country featuring local artworks and displays as well as a gorgeous Mediterranean-inspired architecture.
6. Pamper yourself in a spa
Why not treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience during your solo staycation? Metro Manila is home to renowned spas and wellness centers where you can unwind and find inner peace. Check out The Spa, which has several branches around the metro. For the ultimate pampering, The Peninsula Spa in Makati and Chi, The Spa at Shangrila in Ortigas are fantastic options.
Aside from visiting a neighborhood spa, it’s also an option to get a massage service in your hotel room. Let the skilled hands of experts melt away your stress, leaving you refreshed and revitalized.
7. Try different arts and crafts
One of the best things to do in Manila for solo travelers is to join different workshops. Get in touch with your inner child, unleash your creativity, or just do something for fun!
Sip n’ Gogh has different branches around the metro where you can learn to pain while sipping wine. Meanwhile, Tahanan Pottery Shop & Studio in Quezon City offers beginner classes for those who want to learn how to mold and shape clay.
8. Enjoy rooftop bars and skyline views
Take your solo staycation to new heights by experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife from breathtaking rooftop bars. Indulge in cocktails at The Penthouse 8747 in Makati where you can soak in the beauty of the city’s skyline. There’s also Skye Lounge, which offers a chic rooftop experience in the heart of Bonifacio Global City. These rooftop destinations provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and creating unforgettable memories.
9. Shop ’til you drop
Metro Manila is a shopper’s paradise, with numerous retail destinations offering an array of shopping experiences to locals and tourists alike.
SM Mall of Asia, one of the largest malls in this part of the world, boasts a vast selection of shops, entertainment options, and dining establishments. Greenbelt in Makati attracts people with a finer taste in life with its high-end brands and luxurious ambiance, while Bonifacio High Street offers a trendy outdoor shopping and dining strip (Read: Best Restaurants in BGC).
Take your time to explore and find unique souvenirs or indulge in a shopping spree during your solo staycation.
10. Join local events
Metro Manila’s vibrant cultural scene offers a plethora of events, festivals, and art exhibits. Stay updated on upcoming happenings and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Attend music festivals, food fairs, or art exhibitions taking place during your staycation. Plenty of community activities take place in summer during the fiesta season, but there are also numerous artistic and cultural events that happen year-round in Metro Manila. Engaging with the dynamic atmosphere of the region will allow you to fully appreciate its creativity and diversity.
Even if you’re just free for a day or two, you’ll have plenty of chances to discover the hidden gems of Metro Manila, create cherished memories, and return home with a renewed sense of joy and inspiration.
Do you have other recommendations for activities in Manila for solo travelers? Let us know in the comments section below!
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This article is contributed by an expert guest author.
