Manila Instagram Tour (Shared Tour)

Exploring Manila through the lens of Instagram: a guide to the Manila Instagram Tour (Shared Tour)

Getting around Manila’s sprawling cityscape to find the perfect photo spots can be a challenge. Public transport like jeepneys can take ages and sometimes feel unpredictable, while self-driving offers flexibility but often comes with stress and higher costs. Enter the Manila Instagram Tour, a shared, transport-only experience designed to hit up the city’s most photogenic spots swiftly and comfortably. This tour offers a balanced mix of must-see sights, guided insights, and social vibes—all for around $93 per person.

What we really like about this tour is its convenience. Having a local driver-guide means you don’t need to worry about navigating or parking—just sit back, relax, and enjoy the views. Plus, it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers who share your interest in capturing Manila’s best angles. That said, one thing to consider is that entrance fees are optional and not included, so some of the more iconic sites could add to your costs if you choose to go inside.

This tour is ideal for those who want a quick, curated experience of Manila’s top Instagram-worthy locations without the hassle of planning each stop. It suits travelers on a time crunch or those who prefer a relaxed, social atmosphere. If you’re eager to gather stunning photos and learn a little about Manila’s highlights in a few hours, this might just be the tour for you.

Key Points

• Convenience and Comfort: The tour’s transport-only setup with a local guide simplifies exploring Manila’s hotspots.
• Social Experience: Meeting like-minded travelers adds a fun, shared vibe.
• Photo Opportunities: Visit iconic spots like Rizal Park, Intramuros, and Venice Grand Canal for perfect selfies.
• Optional Entrance Fees: You choose which sites you want to pay to access.
• Time-efficient: Cover multiple major sites in just 4-5 hours.
• Start and End at a Central Location: Easy pickup and drop-off at Starbucks in Pasay.

In-Depth Overview of the Manila Instagram Tour

Why choose this tour?

For anyone new to Manila or short on time, this tour offers a straightforward way to tick off the city’s most Instagrammable locations without the hassle of figuring out transport or balancing multiple tickets. We found that the shared tour format is great for meeting fellow travelers and soaking in the city’s sights at a relaxed pace.

How the tour works

Starting at Starbucks Reserve Three E-Com Center in Pasay at 1:30 pm, the group is picked up by a friendly local driver/guide. The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours and covers a selection of Manila’s most photogenic spots. The journey is smooth and stress-free, with all fuel, tolls, and parking fees included.

Venice Grand Canal Mall

Your first stop is the Venice Grand Canal Mall, inspired by Italy’s romantic city. This spot isn’t just a mall; it’s an experience that offers a picturesque backdrop of gondolas, faux Italian architecture, and fountains, making it perfect for some stunning selfies. Reviewers say it’s “cool” and the sight of the Venetian-inspired architecture instantly transports you away from Manila’s urban hustle.

Intramuros: Manila’s historic heart

Next, you’ll visit Intramuros, the old walled city with roots stretching back to the 16th century. Here, you get a glimpse into Manila’s colonial past, with highlights like Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Baluarte de San Diego. While entrance fees are optional and not included, the exteriors alone provide ample photo opportunities. Reviewers mention that the two cathedrals are breathtaking, and it’s a chance to snap some historic architecture against the city’s modern skyline.

Rizal Park

A visit to Rizal Park (formerly Luneta Park) offers a more relaxed, green space for photos. The park is vast, with plenty of open areas for capturing not just the iconic Rizal Monument but also Manila’s lively atmosphere. As one reviewer said, it’s a place “good for locals but foreigner’s”. It’s a nice spot for a quick break and some casual shots, especially during the late afternoon when the light is softer.

Additional spots

While the itinerary primarily focuses on these well-loved sites, some travelers have expressed interest in other locations, such as the French Canal or cathedrals, which are noted as “breathtaking”. A reviewer also mentioned that local traffic can eat into your time, especially if tours finish after 6 pm, leading to some extra costs, like PHP250 for a shofar (bugle) ride at night if you choose to extend your experience.

Transport and Group Dynamics

The tour includes fuel, tolls, and parking, ensuring no hidden costs. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social vibe and personal space. The local driver-guide is appreciated for their punctuality, friendliness, and clear communication, making it feel more like traveling with a knowledgeable friend rather than a generic tour.

Value for money

While $93 per person might seem steep for some, remember that this covers transport, insider guidance, and the convenience of a planned route. Entrance fees are optional, so if you’re keen on exploring more deeply into sites like Fort Santiago or San Agustin Church, you’ll pay extra. For photo enthusiasts and busy travelers wanting a snapshot of Manila’s highlights, this package offers solid value.

Real traveler insights

One reviewer noted that the guide was very friendly and clear, which made the experience more enjoyable. Another pointed out that the old city is good for locals but might feel a bit touristy for those seeking authentic, less crowded spots. Conversely, some found the French mall and cathedrals breathtaking, making it worth the visit.

Who is this tour best for?

This Manila Instagram Tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick, guided overview of the city’s most photogenic and historic spots. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want high-quality photos and a taste of Manila’s highlights. Families, first-timers, or solo travelers looking for a sociable experience will appreciate the group setting and the ease of transport.

If your priority is authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, this might feel a bit curated or touristy. However, for capturing the essence of Manila’s visual appeal in a few hours without stress, it delivers.

Final Thoughts

The Manila Instagram Tour offers a balanced, practical way to see some of the most Instagram-worthy sights in Manila without the hassle of planning each stop. The combination of comfortable transportation, insider guide knowledge, and the chance to meet fellow travelers makes it a compelling choice for those seeking efficient sightseeing with a social twist.

The optional entrance fees allow flexibility depending on your interests, and the stops are well-chosen for their visual appeal. While it’s not a deep dive into Manila’s culture or history, it’s a fun, light-hearted way to gather memorable photos and enjoy a snapshot of the city’s highlights.

For anyone eager to share a relaxed adventure, snap some stunning photos, and make new friends along the way, this tour offers excellent value and a convenient way to experience Manila’s camera-ready side.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Starbucks Reserve Three E-Com Center in Pasay, at 1:30 pm.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, covering multiple key sights in Manila.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are optional and paid separately if you choose to go inside sites like Fort Santiago or San Agustin Church.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the group size is capped at 15, making it a friendly environment for solo travelers who enjoy meeting new people.

What is the main mode of transportation?
A local driver-guide provides comfortable transport between sites, with all costs like fuel, tolls, and parking included.

Can I customize my visit?
While the itinerary is set, you may choose whether or not to pay entrance fees at specific locations.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera or smartphone for photos, some cash for optional entrance fees, and your own snacks or water if needed.

To sum it up, if you’re keen on capturing Manila’s most Instagrammable locations with ease and companionship, this tour is a smart, hassle-free choice. It offers a good mix of famous sights, social interaction, and professional guidance, making it a worthwhile addition to your Manila visit—especially if your goal is to stockpile stunning photos and enjoy a relaxed day out.