• Private Tour
• Instantly Confirmed
• Carbon Neutral

Want to see the best of Manila? We got you covered. But as you can expect from a Withlocals experience, the real excitement is its hidden gems. Join your favorite local and get a feeling of the city's real vibe on a tour that has it all, so you can say: I experienced the real Manila!

Destination

Manila, Philippines

Category

City Highlight Tours

Duration

3 hours

Transport mode

Walking tour

Available languages

English, Deutsch

Included

• Private Guide
• 1 Local Snack or Drink
• All Withlocals Tours are Carbon Neutral

Excluded

• Entrance to attractions

What you can expect

Choose your local

Get to know these 4 passionate locals, each bringing unique perspectives and talents. Choose your favorite, check their availability, and book to create an unforgettable adventure tailored to you.

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with the host of your choice.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at By the monument of San Juan De Bautista - Manila to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. City Highlights

   See from Manila Cathedral, Quiapo Church, Manila City Hall, and other landmarks and must-sees of the city. Your local host will take you to the main spots in town so you can get the perfect overview of what makes Manila so unique

4. Hidden Gems

   Along the way, your local host will show you treasures hidden in plain sight that only the locals know about. Get to know the city through a different perspective, the local way, and discover places and stories that not many tourists experience

5. Magical Storytelling

   Behind every landmark and every stop, there’s a story, and your local host is ready to tell it all. Get ready to listen to incredible stories, one-of-a-kind insights, and fun facts only a knowledgeable local would know!

6. Special Treat

   Follow your host to one of their favorite eateries for a snack or a drink beloved by the locals. Take a break and catch up with your new local friend and get the answers to all your travel questions

7. Make it yours

   Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

   Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

   Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

sterlibarbara

(About local Rodolfo)

6 March 2025

Ian

(About local Rodolfo)

6 March 2025

We enjoyed our visit to a very hot Manila (42 degrees in the shade) with Rodolfo. He is kind, generous, thoughtful, and very knowledgeable about his home town. We particularly liked our authentic and reasonably priced lunch which Rodolfo helped us choose. Other memorable moments included giving ice-creams to street children; the museum of José Rizal; the dungeon with which Rodolfo has a personal connection; the Cathedral where Christians were queuing to go in; the view from the top of the hotel; the ride in a jeepney, and many more. We would recommend Rodolfo as a perfect host and guide when visiting Manila.A hot day in Manila

Thomas

(About local Greg)

20 February 2025

I booked the tour for my parents in law and Greg was super quick in getting back to me during the booking process and also afterwards to my in laws. They were super happy with the tour and said it was the best during their trip in South East Asia, hence I can only recommend doing a tour with Greg. Great communication and great tour

Unknown

(About local Greg)

19 February 2025

Greg hat uns die verschiedenen facetten von Manila näher gebracht . Gut strukturiert und mit einem unfangreichen Wissen. Als Deutsche haben wir sein Englisch sehr gut verstanden . Wir haben uns gut unterhalten und ausgetauscht .Eine entspannte und interessante Tour

Kim🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Greg)

18 February 2025

We (family of four plus Grandparents) had an excellent time in our short stay in Manila with Greg leading our half-day tour of the city. Greg was very knowledgeable about the interesting history of the city of Manila and the Philippines and took us to some cool spots of the city. Even though we had very limited time (4 hours roughly), I feel Greg was able to give us a good feel for the city, in particular the history that shaped the city. Very unique customized Manila Experience

David🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Rodolfo)

8 February 2025

Rodolfo was well organised and we had no problem meeting him when our cruise docked. In Manila. He checked with us about what we wanted to and adapted his tour accordingly. He was very informative and we had a great walking tour. We would highly recommend him.Rodolfo is an informative tour guide

Erich🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Rodolfo)

6 February 2025

Wir hatten das große Vergnügen, mit Rodolpho die Altstadt von Manila zu erkunden, und es war einfach fantastisch! Rodolpho spricht nicht nur ausgezeichnet Deutsch und Englisch, sondern überzeugt auch mit tiefgehendem Wissen über die Geschichte, Kultur und Sehenswürdigkeiten der Stadt. Unsere Kleingruppe von sieben Personen wurde durch die faszinierenden Straßen von Intramuros geführt, wo wir bedeutende historische Orte besuchten und spannende Hintergründe erfuhren. Besonders beeindruckt hat uns Rodolphos lebendige Art, mit der er Geschichte zum Leben erweckt. Ein weiteres Highlight war die kulinarische Erfahrung: Wir durften verschiedene lokale Spezialitäten probieren – ein absolutes Muss für alle, die authentische philippinische Küche entdecken möchten. Wer Manila besucht, sollte sich diese Tour mit Rodolpho auf keinen Fall entgehen lassen. Eine rundum empfehlenswerte und bereichernde Erfahrung! Outstanding City Tour with Rodolpho in Manila! We had the great pleasure of exploring Manila’s old town with Rodolpho, and it was simply fantastic! Rodolpho not only speaks excellent German and English but also impresses with his deep knowledge of the city’s history, culture, and landmarks. Our small group of seven was guided through the fascinating streets of Intramuros, where we visited significant historical sites and learned captivating background stories. What stood out the most was Rodolpho’s engaging way of bringing history to life. Another highlight was the culinary experience: we had the chance to try various local specialties – an absolute must for anyone wanting to discover authentic Filipino cuisine. If you’re visiting Manila, you should definitely not miss this tour with Rodolpho. A thoroughly recommendable and enriching experience! Herausragende Stadtführung

Luc

(About local Greg)

3 February 2025

Le guide fait toujours la différence. Greg avait un bon plan pour nous faire découvrir sa ville et malgré le lourd traffic il a réussi à nous donner le goût de revenir. Très connaissant du passé et du présent de sa ville. Très bon communicateur. Intéressé et intéressant

Elin

(About local Greg)

27 January 2025

We had a fantastic time seeing Manila and learning about its history with Greg. We really appreciated Greg’s suggestions for what to see and do as well as his tips. His knowledge is amazing! It was the perfect was to spend a port day! Highly recommended! Excellent day with Greg

Chris🇳🇱 Netherlands

(About local Rodolfo)

5 January 2025

We were very happy with Rodolfo's tour. He catered to our personal wishes and is very knowledgeable about Manila's past and present. He showed us places, food and drinks we would not have found ourselves and even took us to a specific store in Chinatown to find a product we were looking for. Would definitely recommend spending a morning or day with Rodolfo. Thank you! Captivating storyteller & personal touch

Drazen🇭🇷 Croatia

(About local Greg)

30 December 2024

Better from Manila you can not imagine… Correct,lot of expirience and knowledge about history and politic ,more then correct and friendly… If we come back he is only one solution.. Thanks a lot Best Manila expiriens

Aleksandra🇨🇭 Switzerland

(About local Rodolfo)

29 December 2024

Do not hesitate to book your tour with Rodolfo. He is very accommodating ( our ship arrival was delayed ) . Rodolfo is very knowledgeable and he shares many details with you . It was a pleasure to have such a guide . He knows the facts and tries his best to introduce his country . 5/5 .Absolutely fantastic guide and person

Jennifer🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Joemarie)

19 December 2024

I was in Manila for work and had a free afternoon where I could squeeze in a little time to see the city. Joem was the perfect choice for an afternoon walking tour getting the highlights and history of Manila. He's a wealth of knowledge and a tonne of fun. I couldn't have been happier.Afternoon highlights

Jackie 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Rodolfo)

20 November 2024

The tour was perfect in length and the places we visited. Rodolfo was very knowledgeable, friendly and a very good guide. I would highly recommend. A great tour

REBECCA🇺🇸 United States

(About local Rodolfo)

8 November 2024

Rudolph went above and beyond with local tour. He even brought his car upon learning about a walking problem…saving much time and energy in the heat of Manila. It was a pleasure to have his knowledge and assistance. He even had some small souvenirs for purchase-saving us from the marketplace!! Well done Rudolph!10 Excellent!

Jon

(About local Greg)

17 October 2024

Greg was excellent, informative, and made the tour highly enjoyable. We spent three hours with him, and he kept our attention the entire time. We highly recommend Greg.Superb historical tour

Rachel🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Greg)

22 July 2024

Greg was fantastic, knew his stuff back to front and provided as a interesting and detailed look into Manila's history. We really enjoyed our time with Greg and would definitely book another tour with him when we come back

Sarina🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Rodolfo)

14 June 2024

We had a great time with Rodolfo exploring the city. His knowloge about the history, local areas and sights is excellent. We loved his food recommendations and the hidden gems. Rodolfo is more than happy to tailor the tour to your interests. His english and german is spot-on. He makes you feeling comfortable from the first minute. We wish him all the best and would go on a tour with him anytime again. History and hidden gems

Andi🇨🇭 Switzerland

(About local Rodolfo)

24 May 2024

Rodolfo gave us a fantastic introduction to Manila. During the tour, we learned a lot about history and culture. And are now traveling home with a great impression of Manila. We are very experienced when it comes to guided tours. Rodolfo's is clearly one of the best, if not the best ever. Thank you Rodolfo.Thanks Rodolfo!

Elisa🇮🇹 Italy

(About local Rodolfo)

11 May 2024

Thank you Rodolfo, We had a very interesting and personalized Half day tour with you. You are very passionate about the history of your country and we really enjoyed spending our last day with you! I will recommend you 😁 Elisa and LucaAmazing and interesting Manila day tour

2xr8wxn4sz🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Joemarie)

22 April 2024

Hat von Anfang an alles super geklappt. Vor Buchung abgesprochen, dass wir uns bei mir im Hotel treffen und von dort die Tour starten. Gesagt - getan. Pünktlich und am Tag selbst via WhatsApp kommuniziert, top. Tour vor Ort nich abgestimmt, was will man mehr. 5***** Sterne von mir. Sehr netter und flexibeler Guide

gracegbautista.777

(About local Rodolfo)

31 March 2024

Rodolfo is an excellent guide. He met my expectations of what the tour would be. It was nice to have a local perspective. He is also a pleasant companion for the three plus hours tour. I learned additional historical facts while on this tour. Among the many highlights of the tour was finding freshly baked hopia to take home and to snack on. Highly recommend. Old Manila/Intramuros/Binondo/Escolta Tour

Günter🇹🇭 Thailand

(About local Rodolfo)

27 March 2024

Informativ und interessant

Carsten🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Rodolfo)

3 March 2024

Tolle Stadtführund mit Rudolpho

Micheal

(About local Rodolfo)

23 February 2024

Rodolfo was great. I did zero research on my last minute trip Manila and booked him 1 day prior. His response time was quick and precise. The tour itself was very fun and educational. I was amazed by his knowledge and his ACTUAL family ties that are a part of Manila’s history. I suggest touring with Rodolfo! Great experience!

Lal🇸🇬 Singapore

(About local Rodolfo)

15 February 2024

Thanks for recommending us a good Halal restaurant which suits our children's taste bud and also for showing us around various options for Halal food at Quaipo. I strongly recommend this tour with Rodolfo for his vast knowledge on local food. Thanks Rodolfo for the great service.Food tasting with Rodolfo

Inga🇨🇭 Switzerland

(About local Rodolfo)

9 February 2024

Nachdem wir pünktlich am Treffpunkt waren, ging es auch schon los. Eine Reise durch die Geschichte Manilas. Nach dem Fort Santiago und einer kurzen Erfrischung sind wir mit einem Grab nach Chinatown. Für uns als Europäer war es unfassbar, kurz vor dem chinesischen Neuen Jahr, ein Treiben wie auf einem Ameisenhaufen. Rodolfo wusste allerlei zu erzählen und hat uns sicher durch das Treiben gelotst. Auch hat er zum Schluss geschaut, dass wir ein Taxi bekommen, was zu der Uhrzeit eine Herausforderung war. Vielen Dank Rodolfo!Interessante Führung durch das alte Manila

Diane🇺🇸 United States

(About local Rodolfo)

8 February 2024

The walking tour with Rodolfo is a must! We had limited time in Mania and our tour was the perfect overview. He’s kind, patient, and knowledgeable and took us to the best parts of Manila. I would highly recommend!You must book this tour with Rodolfo!

Norbert🇳🇱 Netherlands

(About local Greg)

29 December 2023

Greg is an excellent guide, living in Manila for more than 35 years. He provided a very insightful tour with a lot of historical perspective. He is very knowledgeable on every aspect (culture, food,…) of Philippines’ life. Highly recommended! Very insightful historical Manila

Dominik🇮🇹 Italy

(About local Bernadette)

20 November 2023

I was able to discover the real Manila where there is no mass tourism and where real life takes place, it was an experience that I can recommend to everyone.The real Manila

Leann

(About local Joemarie)

2 March 2025

Joemarie was great. We did the full day tour and street food today - both were flexible and tailored to us. I’d recommend Joemarie - knowledgeable, prompt, safe & fun tours! Knowledgeable and Fun!!

Gina

(About local Joemarie)

24 February 2025

My 12 year old son and I really enjoyed our walking tour around Fort Santiago and Intramuros. Joemarie was knowledgeable, kind, patient and very flexible. He also didn’t rush us at all and let us take our time while still showing us everything on the initinerary. I highly recommend this tour with Joemarie!Highly Walking Tour w Joemarie!

Norbert

(About local Greg)

23 February 2025

We had a great time with Greg! He was very accommodating and knowledgeable. Despite the traffic jams, some site closures and unexpected rain, he made sure to fit in as much as possible into our half day city tour. I would highly recommend him to anyone visiting Manila.Great tour in Manila

Unknown

(About local Rodolfo)

22 February 2025

Rudolf🇦🇹 Austria

(About local Rodolfo)

22 February 2025

10Einfach Super

Kimberley🇵🇹 Portugal

(About local Rodolfo)

21 February 2025

Spending a couple of days in the bustling metropolis of Manila can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors and those traveling with children. Whenever I visit a new city, I like to use *With Locals* to get my bearings and gain a deeper understanding of both the destination and its people—beyond just the tourist highlights. This time, we were fortunate to find Rodolfo, a kind and knowledgeable guide with a wealth of local insights. One of the restaurants he took us to held a special place in his heart—his mother used to bring him there as a child, though it was originally tucked away in a different alley, which we also got to explore. As we walked through the city, he shared stories from his life over the decades, giving us a richer perspective on Manila’s history and culture. We opted for a combined food and history tour, which proved to be an excellent choice. Rodolfo was incredibly flexible, willing to tailor the experience to our interests and schedule. We could have easily explored more—tasted more, seen more—but after six hours, our children were understandably exhausted. I highly recommend Rodolfo. He made us feel both well-informed and well cared for, and nothing was ever too much trouble. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️A flavoursome journey of food and culture.

Rudolf🇦🇹 Austria

(About local Rodolfo)

20 February 2025

10 PunkteSehr interesanr, war toll

Unknown

(About local Rodolfo)

17 February 2025

Hi there, We only had two days in Manila before we took off to Visit the remaining Islands in the Philippines. We are a family of 4, and our two girls are 9 and 12. We wanted first to get the most out of the street food and history which we are keen for, but knowing there is so much to see and do we were quite apprehensive in what we were actually able to do. Than the morning arrived for our tour, and we met out tour guide Rudolfo!!! And wow, what a gentleman! Nor just he was a highly cordial yet fun guide as he is a walking encyclopaedia not just of the history of the Philippines as from the general history of the world. Vey educated person. More important was our greeting and pick up. He arrived before the hour with the car we rented, which he picked up, and than in a very calm and professional way he made us feel very comfortable and secure. He gave us a detailed briefing of possibilities and timings and all went just perfect. In the end it felt we went out with a friend or a family member with whom we spend the day. He really took us off the beaten track, with all is local expertise, trying excellent street food and as we travelled seeing a few sites. After in the afternoon was all about embracing the history whilst walking through sites and streets. I work in tourism for many years and it was an absolute pleasure to spend the day with Rudolfo!!! I take my hat off!! Congratulations, thank you and well done!!!What a Gentelman and what a tour!!!

Michael🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Rodolfo)

17 February 2025

We spent a really enjoyable afternoon with Rodolfo learning about the food of the Philippines and China town. Rodolfo was very knowledgeable and provided great company, would definitely recommend.Great afternoon

Ellen🇧🇪 Belgium

(About local Joemarie)

15 February 2025

We had a lovely morning in Manila with Joemarie. We visited the sights in Intra-muros, took a jeepney together and listened to all his knowledge. He knows his history, his local heroes and 87 (!!) national anthems with perfect accents. Excellent guide! Thanks Joem! Excellent guide, a fountain of knowledge!

Caitlin🇺🇸 United States

(About local Joemarie)

10 February 2025

My husband and I were very excited to do a food tour with Joemarie for our first time in the Philippines. I reached out to him a few days before the tour with a question, but received no response. I assumed he was probably busy so, I let it go. On the day of our tour, we arrived on time at the meeting point and waited. I texted Joemarie, and waited. Around 15 minutes after our scheduled meeting time, he responded that there was a family emergency and no food tour would be happening. While I can be sympathetic to his situation, he was not professional enough to reach out to us in a timely manner to update us. Sadly, I would not recommend this tour and Withlocals has not reached out or refunded us for a tour that did not happen. All in all, this experience has been very disappointing.Joemarie was uncommunicative & a no show

Scott🇺🇸 United States

(About local Bernadette)

29 January 2025

We loved the spontaneous nature of our food tour. We are both vegetarian and Bernadette helped us to explore Chinatown and find many veggie options. She was friendly and personable and we loved everything we tried.Bernadette was amazing!

Neha🇵🇭 Philippines

(About local Rodolfo)

30 December 2024

We enjoyed our time with Rodolfo. He was punctual, pleasant and kind to accommodate our dietary preferences (the tour was advertised as having vegetarian options). However, we were hoping for a more curated experience which shared some interesting facts about the area and culture of Manila as we walked through the streets of Chinatown. We found that we had to ask questions to really get this richness. The vegetarian restaurant (one stop) we visited had interesting options but not all of it was local cuisine. The two meat stops were good. For the dessert, perhaps another alternative could have been a nice way to end the tour. All in all, it was an enjoyable evening and we left having gained some insights into the life of those living in that part of Manila. Food tour in Manila

Michael🇺🇸 United States

(About local Joemarie)

25 December 2024

Joem was extremely personable, bubbly, and fun. He ensured that every treat on our food tour fit my dietary restrictions and showed us places we never would have found on our own. Joem made us laugh and answered questions of all kinds about food, Filipino culture, and life in Manila. He also showed a genuine curiosity about us and our travels. I highly recommend him!A great guide and friend!

Naz🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Rodolfo)

20 December 2024

My husband and I had a wonderful tour in Chinatown with Rodolfo. Rodolfo is very knowledgeable about the culture and history of the Philippines. We had very interesting conversations with him while enjoying the various delicacies he shared with us - including fried frog legs, duck soup and oyster pancake. He was very considerate of our dietary restrictions and went out of his way to take me to a vegetarian restaurant where I had amazing vegetarian hot and sour soup! We both loved the fresh sugar cane juice!! A wonderful experience! Highly recommended. Wonderful food tour in Chinatown!

Gerry🇺🇸 United States

(About local Joemarie)

16 December 2024

Discovering Manila's historic Binondo district with Joemarie (nicknamed "Joem") delivered an unforgettable culinary journey. His infectious enthusiasm and deep knowledge of Filipino culture transformed our simple food tour into a rich cultural experience. Joem gave remarkable personal attention to each member of our six-person group, addressing everyone's questions and interests. As we explored hidden alleyways and local haunts, his engaging storytelling brought the neighborhood's vibrant history to life, while his thoughtful selection of eateries ensured everyone, including vegetarians, could fully participate. Joem surprised even the most seasoned Filipino food enthusiasts in our group with his curated selection of dishes and establishments. He led us to tucked-away family-run restaurants and street food stalls we would never have found on our own, introducing both traditional favorites and lesser-known delicacies. Even those well-versed in Filipino cuisine discovered new flavors and dishes. I wholeheartedly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Manila - and specifically request Joem as your guide. His expertise, personable nature, and genuine passion for sharing Filipino culture will make your Binondo food adventure truly memorable.An authentic Filipino food adventure!

Sarah

(About local Joemarie)

14 December 2024

Joemarie’s tour was so incredibly informative. He is so passionate about his country and its many delicious foods. I am pescatarian which is hard to find in Filipino foods but Joemarie was able accommodate and I did not feel like I missed out on anything. Would recommend!! Yum!

Marc🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Joemarie)

6 December 2024

Joemarie began communicating with me even before we met to ensure I knew where to meet him and using Grab for my transportation. He was very knowledgeable in the history of the Philippines and was able to answer all my questions even if they weren’t about the history. I felt safe when we took public transportation and walked through Chinatown. I would definitely recommend him for any other tours he may offer. Thanks again Joemarie Well done

Jamila

(About local Bernadette)

14 November 2024

Bernadette was late even after pushing the original tour back 2 hours. Lack of information during the food tour and very nonchalant on the recommendations. Nothing seemed planned out beforehand. The food total was likely under $20 USD but the tour cost $70. Not worth it, save your money and book another tour.Lack Luster Food Tour

Unknown

(About local Rodolfo)

27 October 2024

Rodolfo was fun/ relaxed...no request seemed a difficultly for him...he always clearly understood our various requests and responded seamlessly...plus he showed us through the incredible local art gallery "Pinto Museum" which was an unexpected bonus. Also, on the way back from the Pinto we asked for the fish market ..in 30 minutes we were in the fish market watching prawns and calamari being cooked and then eaten by us... superb, committed, interesting, genuine