More about Intramuros
Discover the Fascinating Fun Facts about Intramuros
Intramuros, meaning "within the walls," is a historic walled area in Manila, Philippines. It was built by the Spanish in the 16th century and served as the center of political, religious, and military power during the Spanish colonial period. Intramuros is a popular tourist destination in Manila, attracting both local and foreign visitors. Here are some fascinating fun facts about Intramuros that you might not know:
- The walls of Intramuros are 22 feet high and 8 feet thick. They were built to protect the city from foreign invaders and natural disasters.
- The Manila Cathedral, located in Intramuros, is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It was first built in 1571 but has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to natural disasters and wars.
- The San Agustin Church, also located in Intramuros, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in 1589 and is the oldest stone church in the Philippines.
- The Fort Santiago, a military defense fortress, is also located in Intramuros. It was used as a prison during the Spanish colonial period and World War II.
- Intramuros was heavily damaged during the Battle of Manila in 1945, which marked the end of the Japanese occupation of the Philippines during World War II. Many of the historic buildings were destroyed, but they have since been restored.
- Intramuros has been featured in several movies, including "Apocalypse Now" and "The Bourne Legacy."
Explore the Charm of a Famous Street/Neighborhood in Manila, Philippines
Intramuros is not just a historic site, but it is also a vibrant street/neighborhood in Manila, Philippines. It is home to many shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that offer a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture. Here are some reasons why you should visit Intramuros:
- Intramuros is a great place to learn about the Philippines' colonial past. The historic buildings and landmarks in Intramuros offer a glimpse into the country's Spanish colonial period.
- Intramuros is a foodie's paradise. The street/neighborhood is home to many restaurants that serve authentic Philippine cuisine, such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon.
- Intramuros is a shopper's haven. The street/neighborhood is home to many shops that sell traditional Philippine crafts, such as handwoven textiles, pottery, and woodcarvings.
- Intramuros is a cultural hub. The street/neighborhood is home to many cultural attractions, such as the Casa Manila Museum, which showcases the lifestyle of the upper class during the Spanish colonial period, and the Bahay Tsinoy Museum, which showcases the Chinese-Filipino heritage and culture.
- Intramuros is a great place to take a stroll. The street/neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly, and the historic buildings and landmarks offer a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely walk.
Reasons Why Intramuros Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
Intramuros is a must-visit destination in Manila, Philippines. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment that caters to all types of travelers. Here are some reasons why Intramuros should be on your travel bucket list:
- Intramuros is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is recognized for its cultural and historical significance and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish colonial architecture in Asia.
- Intramuros is a great place to learn about Philippine history. The historic buildings and landmarks in Intramuros offer a glimpse into the country's Spanish colonial period, as well as its struggle for independence from foreign powers.
- Intramuros is a foodie's paradise. The street/neighborhood is home to many restaurants that serve authentic Philippine cuisine, such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon.
- Intramuros is a shopper's haven. The street/neighborhood is home to many shops that sell traditional Philippine crafts, such as handwoven textiles, pottery, and woodcarvings.
- Intramuros is a cultural hub. The street/neighborhood is home to many cultural attractions, such as the Casa Manila Museum, which showcases the lifestyle of the upper class during the Spanish colonial period, and the Bahay Tsinoy Museum, which showcases the Chinese-Filipino heritage and culture.
- Intramuros is a great place to take a stroll. The street/neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly, and the historic buildings and landmarks offer a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely walk.
- Intramuros is a popular destination for photography enthusiasts. The historic buildings and landmarks in Intramuros offer a unique and picturesque backdrop for photos.
- Intramuros is a great place to experience Philippine hospitality. The locals in Intramuros are known for their warm and friendly demeanor, and they are always willing to help tourists navigate the area.
How to Go to Intramuros: A Comprehensive Guide
Getting to Intramuros is easy, and there are several transportation options available. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to go to Intramuros:
- By taxi: Taxis are readily available in Manila, and most drivers are familiar with Intramuros. Just tell the driver to take you to Intramuros, and they will know where to go.
- By jeepney: Jeepneys are a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines. Look for jeepneys that have "Intramuros" written on the signboard. The fare is usually around Php 10-20 per person.
- By LRT: The nearest LRT station to Intramuros is Central Terminal Station. From there, you can take a jeepney or a taxi to Intramuros.
- By walking: If you're staying in a hotel near Intramuros, you can opt to walk to the area. It's a great way to explore the city and get some exercise at the same time.
Fun Things to Do Near Intramuros for an Unforgettable Experience
Intramuros is just one of the many attractions in Manila, Philippines. If you're looking for more things to do near Intramuros, here are some suggestions:
- Visit Rizal Park: Rizal Park is a 60-hectare park located near Intramuros. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and it offers a wide range of activities, such as picnics, jogging, and sightseeing.
- Explore Binondo: Binondo is the oldest Chinatown in the world and is located near Intramuros. It is a great place to experience Chinese-Filipino culture and cuisine.
- Shop at Divisoria: Divisoria is a popular shopping district located near Intramuros. It is known for its affordable prices and wide selection of goods, such as clothes, accessories, and electronics.
- Visit the National Museum: The National Museum is located near Intramuros and is home to a vast collection of Philippine art, culture, and history.
- Take a sunset cruise: Manila Bay is known for its stunning sunsets, and taking a sunset cruise is a great way to experience it. There are several companies that offer sunset cruises near Intramuros.
Why Book a Hotel Near Intramuros with Agoda.com
Agoda.com is a leading travel website that specializes in affordable and hassle-free hotel bookings. Here are some reasons why you should book a hotel near Intramuros with Agoda.com:
- Agoda.com offers a wide range of hotels near Intramuros, from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations.
- Agoda.com offers competitive prices and exclusive deals for its customers.
- Agoda.com has a user-friendly website and mobile app that makes booking hotels easy and convenient.
- Agoda.com has a 24/7 customer service team that can assist you with any questions or concerns.
- Agoda.com offers a flexible cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel or modify your reservation without any fees.
The Best Season or Moment to Visit Intramuros
The best season to visit Intramuros is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The peak season for tourism in Manila is from December to January, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Intramuros during the off-peak season, which runs from June to November.
Expert Tips for Travelers Visiting Intramuros for the First Time
If you're visiting Intramuros for the first time, here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Wear comfortable shoes: Intramuros is a pedestrian-friendly area, and you'll be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes to avoid blisters and sore feet.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen: The weather in Manila can be hot and humid, so make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring cash: Some shops and restaurants in Intramuros may not accept credit cards, so make sure to bring cash with you.
- Hire a guide: Hiring a guide is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of Intramuros. They can also help you navigate the area and recommend the best places to eat and shop.
- Respect the local culture: Intramuros is a cultural hub, so make sure to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress appropriately and avoid loud and disruptive behavior.
Where to Stay Near Intramuros: The Ultimate Guide
There are several hotels near Intramuros that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the best hotels near Intramuros:
- Belmont Hotel Manila - Multiple Use Hotel: This hotel is located near Ninoy Aquino International Airport and offers affordable rates and modern amenities.
- Heritage Hotel (Multiple-Use Hotel): This hotel is located near the Mall of Asia and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
- Dusit Thani Manila: This hotel is located in Makati and offers luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities.
- Savoy Hotel Manila: This hotel is located in Newport City and offers stylish rooms and convenient access to the airport.
- Holiday Inn Express Manila Newport City: This hotel is located near the airport and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
What to Eat Near Intramuros for a Taste of Authentic Philippine Cuisine
One of the best things about visiting Intramuros is the opportunity to try authentic Philippine cuisine. Here are some of the best restaurants near Intramuros that serve traditional Philippine dishes:
- Barbara's Heritage Restaurant: This restaurant is located inside Casa Manila and offers a wide range of Philippine dishes, such as adobo, sinigang, and kare-kare.
- Ilustrado Restaurant: This restaurant is located inside the historic Ilustrado Mansion and offers a fine dining experience with a modern twist on traditional Philippine dishes.
- Cafe Juanita: This restaurant is located in Pasig and offers a unique dining experience with a cozy and eclectic ambiance and a menu that features traditional Philippine dishes with a twist.
- Bistro Remedios: This restaurant is located in Malate and offers a festive and colorful ambiance with a menu that features traditional Philippine dishes from different regions of the country.
- Gerry's Grill: This restaurant is a popular chain in the Philippines and offers a casual dining experience with a menu that features traditional Philippine dishes, such as sisig, sinigang, and adobo.
How to Travel Around Intramuros and Make the Most of Your Visit
Intramuros is a pedestrian-friendly area, and the best way to explore it is by walking. However, if you want to cover more ground and see more of Manila, here are some transportation options:
- Jeepney: Jeepneys are a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines. They are cheap, and they cover most of the major areas in Manila, including Intramuros.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Manila, and most drivers are familiar with Intramuros. Just tell the driver to take you to Intramuros, and they will know where to go.
- LRT: The nearest LRT station to Intramuros is Central Terminal Station. From there, you can take a jeepney or a taxi to Intramuros.
- Tricycle: Tricycles are a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines, especially in the provinces. They are cheap and can take you to places that are not accessible by jeepney or taxi.
Overall, Intramuros is a must-visit destination in Manila, Philippines. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment that caters to all types of travelers. With this comprehensive guide, you can make the most of your visit to Intramuros and create unforgettable memories. And remember to book your hotel near Intramuros with Agoda.com for a hassle-free and affordable travel experience.