Manila in a Day: See the Best of the City From Sunrise to Sunset

A trip to the Philippine capital will never be complete without a visit to its famous destinations. Coming from Lotus Garden Hotel Manila, all you need to do is put a bit of sunscreen on and walk to these 4 neighborhood attractions that tell a lot about the country's history and the culture of its people.

1. Baywalk
This 2-km stretch between the US Embassy and the Cultural Center of the Philippines is the place to be for morning joggers and sunset watchers. Go brisk walking or jogging on the promenade or just hang out with new friends — the venue is free for all. Aside from the glorious sunset, a variety of hotels and restaurants can also be found along Baywalk.

2. Intramuros
Home to numerous century-old churches and structures built during the Spanish occupation, Intramuros is one of the city's oldest districts. Entrance to the Walled City is free and, with the help of free maps from the surrounding establishments, one can easily cover the entire area in a day. Try going to the Manila Cathedral, the highest seat of the archbishop in the country; Plaza Roma, which served as a bullfighting venue; and the San Agustin Church. Should you go hungry during your exploration, there are plenty of boutique restaurants and street-side canteens in the area.

3. Rizal Park
After a tour of the Walled City, walk for a few meters more and take a rest at Rizal Park. The 54-hectare park is a favorite Manila attraction for tourists and locals alike. The park is home to a number of themed gardens, theaters, and food stalls. Here, you'll find families having a picnic, local artists giving a free performance, and students practicing for school events. Try going late in the afternoon or early in the morning to avoid the brunt of the sun.

4. National Museum
Located beside Rizal Park, National Museum is a must-visit for those who wish to know more of the country's rich natural surroundings without having to go outside the metro. Established in 1901 as the natural history and ethnography repository of the country, the museum has flake tools from Old Stone Age and a skullcap from the same age found in Tabon Cave in Palawan.

After a day of walking and exploring the best historical and cultural sites in the city, come home to a warm, comfortable bed at Lotus Garden Hotel Manila.