Manila’s shore excursions offer two practical choices: shared group tours and private experiences.
The group tours efficiently cover the must-sees – Spanish colonial sites, local markets, and traditional neighborhoods – all at a reasonable price. I’m especially fond of the private cultural tours, which connect travelers with authentic Filipino life through home visits and cooking demonstrations.
Well-run group tours hit key spots like Intramuros (the walled city) and San Agustin Church in about 4 hours.
For something more meaningful, the private countryside tours to nearby plantations provide a genuine slice of local life away from tourist crowds.
Let’s explore the most worthwhile shore excursions Manila has to offer.
Key Points
Shared shore excursions in Manila offer small-group experiences showcasing local Filipino folklore, traditions, and cuisine, starting at $128.21 per person.
Private half-day shore excursions provide personalized exploration of Manila’s old and new quarters, including historical landmarks and WWII memorials, with English-speaking guides.
Unique cultural experiences, such as the Villa Escudero Plantation tour, immerse visitors in authentic Filipino traditions, including a buffalo-drawn cart ride, for $120 per person.
Shore excursions cover a range of activities, including live music performances, museum visits, and opportunities to engage with local culture and heritage.
Convenient booking options and flexible cancellation policies are available for cruise passengers seeking memorable shore excursions in Manila.
The Shared Half-Day Shore Excursion Folklore Show takes visitors on a captivating journey through the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
This half-day tour offers a small-group experience, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Guests will be treated to a delectable dinner featuring local Filipino delicacies and enjoy a mesmerizing folklore show that showcases the country’s vibrant traditions.
The tour includes convenient pickup directly from the cruise port and air-conditioned transportation. Prices start from $128.21 per person, with a child rate available when sharing with two paying adults.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Shared Half-Day Shore Excursion Folklore Show Review
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This shared cruise shore excursion in Manila provides an in-depth exploration of the city’s captivating old and new quarters.
Highlights include a tour of the historic Intramuros district, a visit to the iconic San Agustin Church, and a journey through the modern financial center of Makati.
Travelers will honor WWII heroes at the American Memorial Cemetery and enjoy insights from a knowledgeable private guide.
While Manila’s notorious traffic can impact the tour duration, the air-conditioned transportation allows for comfortable sightseeing.
With a maximum of 15 participants, this experience offers a personalized immersion into the Philippines’ rich history and diverse urban landscape.
Read our full review: Shared Cruise Shore Excursion of Manila Old and New City Tour Review
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For those with limited time in Manila, the shared half-day shore excursion offers an efficient overview of the city’s key landmarks.
Organized by Blue Horizons Travel and Tours, the tour includes visits to the historic San Agustin Church, Museum, and the walled city of Intramuros.
Travelers will enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned transportation as they explore these iconic sights. Priced at $111.54 per person, the excursion provides excellent value, with all taxes, fees, and gratuities included.
Though non-refundable, the tour requires a minimum of 4 participants and can accommodate up to 8 travelers.
Based on positive reviews, this shore excursion is an ideal choice for first-time visitors seeking to make the most of their limited time in Manila.
Read our full review: Shared Half-Day Shore Excursion in Manila Review
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Private Half-Day Shore Excursion Old Manila
Diving into the heart of Old Manila, this private half-day shore excursion offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich heritage.
For $175.65 per person, travelers can explore the historic sites, seeing the local culture. Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour includes all taxes, fees, and gratuities, ensuring a seamless experience.
With a minimum of 2 people required, this private tour allows for a more personalized exploration. Travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most can participate.
Though non-refundable, the excursion promises a memorable journey through the vibrant streets of Old Manila.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day Shore Excursion Old Manila Review
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Private Half-Day Shore Excursion in Manila
Although offering a captivating glimpse into Manila’s rich heritage, this private half-day shore excursion through Blue Horizons Travel and Tours goes beyond just sightseeing.
With a 5-star rating from 5 reviews, the tour takes travelers to key landmarks like St. Agustin Church, American Cemetery, Casa Manila, and Fort Santiago.
Personalized attention and a flexible itinerary ensure an immersive experience, while round-trip transportation and an English-speaking guide provide seamless logistics.
At just $65 per person, this shore excursion delivers exceptional value, covering all entrance fees and offering visitors the opportunity to explore Manila’s history and culture at their own pace.
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Private Half-Day Shore Excursion by Foot
Travelers can explore Manila’s captivating sights on this private half-day shore excursion by foot.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour covers the city’s highlights, including taxes, fees, and gratuities. The minimum group size is 2 people, and a child rate applies when sharing with 2 paying adults.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. While it’s not recommended for those with medical conditions, the moderate physical fitness level required ensures an enjoyable experience.
Participants will meet their guide at the cruise ship’s entrance/exit gate, where they’ll hold a sign for easy identification.
With no refunds for cancellations, this private tour provides an immersive exploration of Manila.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day Shore Excursion by Foot Review
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Private Half-Day Shore Excursion Old Manila by Calesa
What better way to experience the historic streets of Old Manila than by taking a private half-day shore excursion by traditional Calesa?
Priced from $175.65 per person for a minimum of two people, this non-refundable tour includes a Calesa ride, an English-speaking guide, and all taxes and fees.
Pickup is at the cruise ship’s entrance, and the tour starts promptly at 8:00 am.
While infants can join, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.
Based on a 5.0-rated review, the tour offers an excellent experience, with the guide praised for their politeness and professionalism.
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Private Half-Day Shore Excursion Like a Local
For those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Manila, the Private Half-Day Shore Excursion Like a Local offers an exceptional opportunity.
Travelers will explore the daily lives of Filipinos, exploring the city by public transportation and witnessing the vibrant jeepney culture. The excursion includes a meal at a restaurant specializing in authentic Filipino cuisine, allowing participants to savor the flavors of the local culinary tradition.
With transportation expenses covered and a knowledgeable guide, this shore excursion provides a comprehensive introduction to Manila’s rich cultural heritage.
Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, this tour is a must-consider for cruise ship passengers looking to connect with the heart of the Philippines.
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Private Half-Day Shore Excursion Museums in Manila
Those seeking a deep dive into Manila’s rich cultural heritage will find the Private Half-Day Shore Excursion Museums in Manila an excellent choice.
Operated by Blue Horizons Travel and Tours, this private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned museums, all at a competitive price.
Travelers can expect an English-speaking guide, complimentary food and drinks, as well as convenient pickup and drop-off at the cruise ship entrance.
With a minimum of two participants and no wheelchair access, this tour is best suited for most travelers.
Positive reviews and the absence of any negatives suggest a well-executed and enjoyable excursion for those interested in seeing Manila’s vibrant cultural scene.
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Intramuros: History of Old Manila Manila Shore Excursion
Intramuros, the walled city of Manila, offers a captivating glimpse into the Philippines’ storied past.
This 3-4 hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the historic district, exploring landmarks like Fort Santiago and old churches.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience provides a unique local perspective compared to cruise ship excursions.
Highlights include immersing in the lives of historical figures at Casa Manila and a relaxing horse-drawn carriage ride around Intramuros.
With a maximum group size of 24, the tour allows for a more personalized and thorough enjoyment of the attractions.
Priced from $83.34 per person, the excursion is an excellent way to discover Manila’s rich heritage.
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Cruise Shore Excursion of Villa Escudero With Lunch
Travelers seeking a unique cultural experience beyond Manila’s historic Intramuros can embark on a private shore excursion to Villa Escudero Plantation.
This ideal experience for those with limited time in the Philippines includes comfortable air-conditioned transportation and an English-speaking guide. Guests will tour the plantation via buffalo-drawn cart, enjoy a live local music performance, and visit the museum for cultural insights.
Lunch with soft drinks is also included. Priced at $120 per person, this excursion accommodates up to 15 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Cruise passengers can conveniently book this shore excursion and experience the nation’s nature and local culture.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion of Villa Escudero With Lunch Review
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The Sum Up
Manila offers a variety of shore excursions that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and attractions. From guided tours of the historic Intramuros district to visits to local museums and cultural shows, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you prefer a shared or private tour, a half-day or full-day experience, Manila’s shore excursions provide a great way to make the most of your time in the city.