Traditions & Heritage • 3 hours 5
(34)

Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

Uncover the soul of old Manila, spiritual spaces, living crafts, and daily rituals, shaped by your pace, interests, and what draws you in.

You may expect to hear English when visiting Manchester but there is a distinct Mancunian dialect that can baffle first time visitors!

What makes this experience special

This isn’t about observing tradition, it’s about stepping into it. With your host, you’ll follow the thread of faith, family, and craft as it weaves into Manila’s daily life, your way.

Key highlights

  • Begin your walk in a centuries-old courtyard where stillness speaks volumes
  • Explore hidden chapels and ask questions that guide your own path
  • Connect with artisans who still work by hand and heart
  • Learn the story behind a craft and it’s symbolism
  • Walk through a lived-in neighborhood where history hums quietly
  • Discover how traditions adapt in doorways, shrines, and street corners
  • Pause for reflection or conversation with those who call this place home

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems
Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

San Agustin Church, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

San Agustin Church, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines

Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

Sacred Foundations

Begin in a tranquil courtyard wrapped in layers of devotion

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Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

You might start in the quiet courtyard of San Agustin, where worn stone and sacred art hint at centuries of faith. Explore painted ceilings or hidden chapels or simply pause to reflect. Some guests linger, others follow their curiosity deeper into the cloisters.

Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

Craft & Cultural Memory

Hands-on heritage in a quiet corner of the walled city

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Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

Nearby, your host may guide you to a quiet space where traditional skills are still part of daily life.

Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

Living Traditions in the Everyday

Where heritage shows up in daily life, not displays

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Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

In a lived-in neighborhood, tradition appears in subtle ways like doorframe shrines, festive décor, or stories passed between neighbors. Your host might invite conversation, or you may simply stroll and observe how the past quietly shapes daily life.

Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

Optional Close: A Quiet Heritage Courtyard

Time to pause and take it all in

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Traditions of Manila: Faith, Craft & Everyday Rituals

If there’s time, you might end in a peaceful cluster of homes or tiled plaza, a space that feels perfect for sketching, journaling, or simply taking in the slow rhythm of old Manila, with the experience still unfolding in your thoughts.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories
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Standing in awe beneath timeless grandeur

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17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

What travelers think of our Traditions & Heritage experiences in Asia

Rachael Aug 2025

Tim answered all of our questions with enthusiasm and detail.

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Robert Aug 2025

Jonny was an excellent guide and definitely addressed all our questions and requests.

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Angie Aug 2025

Shi Unn was excellent. Knowledgeable and energetic. She catered to my tourist interests. I'm very happy we came together for this tour.

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Louise Aug 2025

Alex was a great guide! Very knowledgeable and flexible. 10/10 recommend!

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Rebecca Aug 2025

Daphne was a great guide! She explained concepts and customs along with historical facts to make the four hours fly by. It was a very interesting and educational experience.

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Rebecca Aug 2025

Daphne was an amazing guide! She was personable and smiling and genuine.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

How much walking is involved?

This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.