14 Museums to Visit in Manila

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14 Museums to Visit in Manila
Museums to Visit in Manila: Top Picks for Art & History Enthusiasts
Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, boasts a rich history and vibrant art scene. As a result, the city is home to numerous museums that showcase various aspects of the nation’s past and display its exquisite artistry. Visiting these museums offers an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike who are eager to dive into the cultural and historical treasures that Manila has to offer.
The museums in Manila cater to diverse interests, from visual arts to historical and scientific displays. These institutions not only preserve the treasures of the past but also educate and inspire future generations to appreciate and value their rich heritage. Among the must-visit museums are the National Museum of Fine Arts, which houses the famous “Spoliarium” by Juan Luna, and The Mind Museum, which offers interactive exhibits for all ages.
Discover a wide range of exhibits, delve into the rich history of the country, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Filipino creativity by scheduling a visit to these exceptional museums in Manila. With options to cater to avid art enthusiasts and curious historians alike, Manila is the perfect destination for cultural exploration.
Iconic Museums in Intramuros
Museo ni Jose Rizal Fort Santiago by Lyuk98 via Wikimedia cc
Rizal Shrine at Fort Santiago

Address: Fort Santiago, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Fort Santiago entrance fee is Php75 for adults and Php50 for students/seniors/PWDs.

The Rizal Shrine at Fort Santiago is a significant historical site that offers visitors a profound glimpse into the life and work of José Rizal, a key figure in Philippine history.
Located inside Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila, the shrine houses an extensive collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and personal belongings of Rizal, providing a deep insight into his life and the impact of his work on Philippine history. It serves as a poignant reminder of Rizal’s significance and his enduring legacy, making it a must-visit for those interested in Philippine history and culture.
San Agustin Church and Museum Tour
Museo San Agustin

Located in: San Agustin Church – Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation and Cincture (Archdiocese of Manila)
Hours open: Mon to Sun: 8:00AM to 12:00PM, 1:00PM to 5:00PM.
Entrance fee: PHP 200.00 (Regular rate); PHP 160.00 (Discounted rate*).
Payment options: Cash only.

The Museo San Agustin is a compelling destination for those seeking to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the Philippines. Housed within the former monastery adjacent to the renowned San Agustin Church in Intramuros , Manila, this museum showcases a diverse array of relics, paintings, antiques, and artifacts spanning over four centuries of faith, art, and history.
With its extensive collection and historical significance, the Museo San Agustin offers visitors a captivating journey through the intertwined narratives of Christianity, art, and the enduring legacy of the Philippines, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Casa Manila is a museum in Intramuros depicting colonial lifestyle during Spanish colonization of the Philippines photo via Depositphotos
Casa Manila Museum

Hours open: Mon: Closed; Tue to Sun: 9:00AM to 6:00PM.
Entrance fee: PHP 75.00 (Regular); PHP 50.00 (Discounted*).
Payment options: Cash; Pay Maya; GCash.
Location: Real St. cor. Gen. Luna St.
Website: https://intramuros.gov.ph/cmm/ .

The Casa Manila Museum is a captivating destination that offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the opulent lifestyle of an affluent Filipino family during the late Spanish colonial period. Situated in the historic district of Intramuros, Manila, this living museum meticulously recreates the ambiance and grandeur of a bygone era through its well-preserved architecture, period furniture, and exquisite artifacts from China, Europe, and the Philippines.
By providing a glimpse into the colonial lifestyle and cultural heritage of the Philippines, Casa Manila Museum offers an immersive and educational experience, making it a compelling attraction for those interested in history, architecture, and cultural exploration.
Museo de Intramuros JewayD via Wikimedia cc
Museo de Intramuros

Hours open: Mon: Closed; Tue to Fri: By appointment only;** Sat to Sun: 9:00AM to 5:00PM.
Entrance fee: PHP 75.00 (Regular); PHP 50.00 (Discounted*).
Payment options: Cash only.
Location: Real St. cor. Anda St.
Website: https://intramuros.gov.ph/mdi/.

*Discounted rate to apply if visitor is a child (<18), senior citizen (?60), student (currently enrolled), person with disability (PWD), or a government employee (Government of the Philippines). Please present a valid ID.
Museo de Intramuros is a must-visit for anyone interested in delving into the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Philippines, particularly within the context of the walled city of Intramuros in Manila. This ecclesiastical museum, located in the reconstructed San Ignacio Church, is operated and managed by the Intramuros Administration.
It houses a significant collection of religious and colonial art, offering a compelling insight into the intertwining narratives of faith, history, and artistic expression in the Philippines. By exploring the exhibits and artifacts within Museo de Intramuros, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural tapestry and its enduring significance, making it an enriching and enlightening experience for history and art enthusiasts alike.
**Exclusive for tour groups with a minimum of 10 participants. Reserve at least two (2) days before your visit via this link. For inquiries: 09157174115, 09368403225, 09155994483, or [email protected]
***Entry from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. may be allowed via klook.
Privately Owned Museums in Manila
UST Museum photo by Judgefloro via Wikimedia cc
UST Museum

Mondays 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesdays to Fridays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Entrance Fee: Non-Thomasian students with ID: PhP30.00 / Non-students: PhP50.00

FREE ENTRANCE FOR:

Thomasian students, faculty, support staff, and alumni with ID.
Tour guides and non-Thomasian teachers with school tour groups.
Members of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) with valid ID.

Non-Thomasian Senior citizens and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) with valid IDs.
The UST Museum, located within the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, offers a diverse and enriching experience for visitors interested in Filipino culture, art, and history. As the oldest existing museum in the Philippines, the UST Museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical items that provide insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
With its well-curated exhibits spanning various disciplines, including natural history, fine arts, and anthropology, the museum serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the Philippines’ vibrant and multifaceted heritage. Additionally, the museum’s commitment to preserving and showcasing the nation’s cultural legacy makes it an essential destination for anyone eager to explore the depth and diversity of Filipino history and art.
Destileria Limtuaco Museum
Destileria Limtuaco Museum

Hours open: Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00AM to 5:00PM; Monday: Closed.
Entrance fee: PHP 100.00; PHP 50.00.* There is an additional PHP100 for liquor tasting.
Payment options: Cash only.
Location: San Juan Letran St.

The Destileria Limtuaco Museum is a compelling destination for those interested in exploring the rich history and heritage of the Philippines’ distilling industry. Located in Intramuros, Manila, this museum provides an immersive experience that delves into the legacy of Destileria Limtuaco, the oldest distillery in the Philippines.
Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the distillery’s storied past, witness the evolution of traditional Filipino liquor production, and gain insights into the cultural significance of spirits in the country. With its engaging exhibits and informative displays, the Destileria Limtuaco Museum offers a unique perspective on the intersection of tradition, craftsmanship, and Filipino identity, making it a must-visit for those intrigued by the country’s rich cultural and industrial heritage.
Museum of Contemporary Art and Design – DLSU College of Saint Benilde

Located in: De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Taft Campus
Entrance Fee: Free to the public
Hours: the museum is open Tuesdays–Saturdays, 10 AM–6 PM; and Sundays, 10 AM–2 PM, except holidays.
Telephone: (02) 230 5100
Email: [email protected]
Website: MCAD

The Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde offers a dynamic and thought-provoking experience for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Situated within an academic setting, the museum is dedicated to showcasing innovative and boundary-pushing works of contemporary art and design.
By featuring a diverse range of exhibitions that correspond to the art courses offered by the college, including film, fashion design, animation, multimedia, and photography, MCAD provides visitors with a vibrant and immersive encounter with cutting-edge artistic expressions. With its commitment to fostering dialogue and critical engagement with contemporary art and design, the museum serves as a vital hub for creative discourse and cultural enrichment, making it an essential destination for those seeking to engage with the forefront of artistic innovation and expression in the Philippines.
Bahay Nakpil – Bautista photo via FB page
Bahay Nakpil – Bautista

Address: 432 A. Bautista, Quiapo, Maynila, 1001 Kalakhang Maynila
Mobile No.: +63 917 871 7455, or
Landline: +63 2 8731 9305
Entrance Fee: 80 Pesos per person (one standard rate)

Bahay Nakpil-Bautista is a significant destination for individuals interested in delving into the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Philippines. As a well-preserved bahay na bato (stone house) located in the district of Quiapo, Manila, it serves as a living testament to traditional Filipino architecture and design. The house also holds historical significance as it was the site where members of the revolutionary movement against Spanish colonial rule, including the Katipunan, clandestinely gathered.
Visitors to Bahay Nakpil-Bautista have the opportunity to explore the house’s architectural charm, discover its historical importance, and gain insights into the lives of the Nakpil and Bautista families, who played pivotal roles in Philippine history. By offering a window into the country’s past and cultural identity, Bahay Nakpil-Bautista provides an enriching and enlightening experience for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers .
Exploring the National Museum Complex
A visit to Manila is incomplete without exploring the National Museum Complex. This educational and cultural hub includes the National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of Anthropology, and the Museum of the Filipino People.
Spoliarium of Juan Luna displayed at Philippine National Museum of Fine Arts by Julan Shirwod Nueva via Wikimedia cc
National Museum of Fine Arts
The National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila is a compelling destination for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers. As the repository of a vast collection of Philippine art, the museum offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich and diverse artistic heritage of the country. From traditional to contemporary works, the museum showcases a wide array of paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual art, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolution of Philippine artistic expression.
By exploring the museum’s exhibits, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural identity, history, and artistic traditions, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking to appreciate the depth and beauty of Filipino art.
Facade of National Museum of Natural History
National Museum of Natural History
The National Museum of Natural History in Manila is a must-visit for those interested in exploring the rich biological and geological diversity of the Philippines. Housed within a strikingly modern building, the museum features a wide range of exhibits that showcase the country’s natural heritage, including its flora, fauna, and geological formations. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with interactive displays, educational programs, and a diverse collection of specimens that provide insights into the unique ecosystems and biodiversity of the Philippines.
By offering a captivating journey through the natural world, the National Museum of Natural History provides an enriching and educational experience for nature enthusiasts, students, and anyone eager to deepen their understanding of the country’s ecological wealth.
National Museum of Anthropology
The National Museum of Anthropology in Manila is a compelling destination for those interested in delving into the diverse