Exploring Binondo: The Heart of Manila's Chinatown
Discover the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine of Binondo, Manila's historic Chinatown, where every corner tells a story.
Binondo, Manila, is a vibrant and bustling district known as the oldest Chinatown in the world. Rich in culture and history, it offers tourists a unique experience with its eclectic mix of food, heritage, and colorful streets. From traditional shops to modern eateries, Binondo is a feast for the senses that immerses visitors in a lively atmosphere steeped in Chinese culture.
A brief summary to Binondo
- Manila, Binondo, Metro Manila, PH
Local tips
- Visit during the Chinese New Year for a vibrant celebration filled with parades, fireworks, and festive food.
- Try the famous dumplings at Dong Bei, a local favorite known for its authentic flavors.
- Explore the side streets for hidden gems and lesser-known eateries that offer unique dishes.
- Take a walking tour to fully appreciate the history and architecture of the area.
- Bring cash, as many small vendors and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Getting There
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LRT (Light Rail Transit)
If you're starting from the area of Ayala Avenue in Makati, go to the Ayala MRT station. From there, take the MRT to the EDSA-Taft station. Once you arrive at EDSA-Taft, transfer to the LRT Line 1 by following the signs towards the LRT station. Board the train heading towards Baclaran and get off at the Carriedo station. From Carriedo, exit the station and head towards Ongpin Street. Follow Ongpin Street towards Binondo, which should take about 10 minutes of walking.
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Jeepney
From the area of Quiapo, locate the jeepney terminal near the Quiapo Church. Take a jeepney with the sign 'Binondo' or 'Divisoria'. The fare is very affordable, usually around 9 PHP. Inform the driver that you are heading to Binondo, and they will drop you off near Ongpin Street. From there, you can easily navigate by walking to your specific destination in Binondo.
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Taxi or Grab
If you prefer a more direct route, you can book a taxi or use the Grab app from anywhere in Manila. Simply input 'Binondo, Manila' as your destination. The drivers are familiar with the area and can take you directly to your desired location. It's advisable to check the fare estimate on the Grab app beforehand. Ensure you have cash ready as not all taxis accept credit cards.
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Walking
If you find yourself near the Manila Cathedral or Intramuros, you can walk to Binondo. Head towards the Jones Bridge, which connects Intramuros to Binondo. Once you cross the bridge, continue straight until you reach Ongpin Street. It’s a pleasant walk, taking roughly 20-30 minutes, allowing you to appreciate the sights along the way.
Discover more about Binondo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roman Ongpin Monument and Historical Marker
0.2 km
Explore the Roman Ongpin Monument in Binondo, where history meets vibrant culture, showcasing the Filipino-Chinese heritage and delicious local cuisine.
Church of Binondo Historical Marker
0.2 km
Explore the Church of Binondo Historical Marker, a captivating blend of culture and history in Manila's vibrant Binondo district.
Filipino-Chinese WWII Martyrs Memorial
0.2 km
Discover the Filipino-Chinese WWII Martyrs Memorial in Binondo, a poignant tribute to resilience and cultural heritage in Manila's historic district.
Doña Teodora Alonzo Death Place Historical Marker
0.4 km
Explore the Doña Teodora Alonzo Death Place Historical Marker in Binondo, Manila, and connect with the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
Jose Abad Santos y Barce Historical Marker & Monument
0.5 km
Discover the heritage of the Philippines at the Jose Abad Santos y Barce Historical Marker & Monument, a poignant tribute in the bustling heart of Binondo, Manila.
Church of Santa Cruz Manila Historical Marker
0.6 km
Explore the Church of Santa Cruz in Manila, a historical landmark that combines stunning architecture with deep cultural significance.
La Madre Filipina - Democracy, Gratitude, Progress, Justice
0.7 km
Discover the essence of Filipino values at La Madre Filipina, a historical landmark symbolizing democracy, gratitude, and progress in the heart of Manila.
The Maritime Expedition of Mexico - Philippines
0.8 km
Explore the Maritime Expedition of Mexico - Philippines, a historic monument celebrating the rich maritime ties between nations in the heart of Manila.
Kataastaasan Kagalanggalang na Katipunan Ng Mga Anak Ng Bayan Monument and Historical Marker
0.8 km
Discover the Kataastaasan Kagalanggalang na Katipunan Ng Mga Anak Ng Bayan Monument, a historical landmark celebrating the Philippines' fight for independence in Manila's Binondo.
Medio Baluarte de San Francisco
0.9 km
Explore Medio Baluarte de San Francisco, a historic gem in Intramuros, Manila, showcasing the architectural splendor and rich history of the Philippines.
The Manila Grand Opera House Historical Marker
0.9 km
Explore the Manila Grand Opera House, a historical landmark showcasing the rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit of the Philippines in the heart of Santa Cruz.
Baluarte De Santa Barbara
0.9 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture at Baluarte De Santa Barbara in Fort Santiago, a must-visit historical site in Manila.
Spanish Barracks Ruins
0.9 km
Discover the enchanting Spanish Barracks Ruins in Intramuros, a historical landmark that reveals the rich colonial heritage of the Philippines.
Ayuntamiento de Manila
1.0 km
Experience the historical grandeur of Ayuntamiento de Manila, a beautifully restored landmark showcasing the rich heritage of the Philippines.
King Charles IV of Spain Monument
1.0 km
Explore the King Charles IV of Spain Monument in Manila, a historical landmark that captures the essence of Filipino heritage and Spanish influence.
Unmissable attractions to see
Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz - Binondo Church (Archdiocese of Manila)
0.1 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Binondo Church, the National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz in the heart of Manila's vibrant Chinatown.
Plaza Calderón de la Barca (S. Lorenzo Ruiz)
0.2 km
Discover the serene Plaza Calderón de la Barca, a historic park in Binondo, Manila, dedicated to the first Filipino saint, San Lorenzo Ruiz.
Ongpin North Bridge Arch
0.2 km
Explore the Ongpin North Bridge Arch, a stunning symbol of Manila's heritage in the vibrant streets of Binondo, rich in culture and history.
Chinatown
0.4 km
Experience Manila's historic Chinatown, a bustling mix of culture, cuisine, and vibrant street life that enchants every traveler.
Binondo Chinatown Arch
0.5 km
Explore the rich heritage of Binondo at the iconic Chinatown Arch, a vibrant gateway to Manila's historical charm and culinary delights.
Divisoria Public Market - L1
0.5 km
Explore Divisoria Public Market: A bustling hub of culture, cuisine, and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Binondo, Manila.
Carriedo Fountain
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Carriedo Fountain, a historical landmark in Santa Cruz, Manila, where culture and beauty converge in the heart of the city.
Archdiocesan Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament (Archdiocese of Manila)
0.6 km
Experience the spiritual serenity and architectural beauty of the Archdiocesan Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament in Manila.
Jones Bridge
0.6 km
Experience the blend of history and beauty at Jones Bridge, a must-visit landmark in Manila that connects the past with the vibrant present.
Binondo - Intramuros Bridge
0.7 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of Binondo - Intramuros Bridge, a vital link in Manila's vibrant heritage.
Pasig River Esplanade
0.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural vibrancy of Pasig River Esplanade, a must-visit promenade in the heart of Manila.
Intendencia Ruins
0.8 km
Explore the Intendencia Ruins in Intramuros, Manila, where history and architecture converge to tell the story of the Philippines' colonial past.
Baluarte de San Gabriel
0.8 km
Discover the historic Baluarte de San Gabriel in Intramuros, Manila – a captivating landmark showcasing the Philippines' rich heritage and colonial past.
Souvenir Island General Merchandise
0.9 km
Explore Souvenir Island in Quiapo for authentic Filipino crafts, unique keepsakes, and a cultural shopping experience in the heart of Manila.
The Dungeons of Fort Santiago
0.9 km
Explore the Dungeons of Fort Santiago, a historical landmark in Manila revealing the rich and complex history of the Philippines.
Essential places to dine
BEST TASTE FOOD HOUSE
0.2 km
Experience delightful Western cuisine at Best Taste Food House in Santa Cruz - where every meal becomes a cherished memory.
Ilang-Ilang Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Filipino cuisine at Ilang-Ilang Restaurant in Binondo - where every dish tells a story.
Delicious Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover culinary bliss at Delicious Restaurant in Santa Cruz, Manila—where local flavors meet global inspiration.
BAMBU INTRAMUROS CORP.
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine at Bambu Intramuros, where tradition meets modern dining in Manila's historic heart.
Bambu Intramuros Art Bar and Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience culinary artistry at Bambu Intramuros: where Filipino flavors meet vibrant culture in the heart of Manila's historic district.
New York Restaurant and Sing A Long
1.0 km
Enjoy delicious Western cuisine and lively sing-along entertainment at New York Restaurant in Manila for an unforgettable dining experience.
Patio de Conchita Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Filipino cuisine at Patio de Conchita in Intramuros - where tradition meets taste.
Plaza San Luis Complex
1.3 km
Experience authentic Filipino cuisine at Plaza San Luis Complex in Intramuros, where culture meets culinary delight.
Ristorante delle Mitre
1.3 km
Discover authentic Filipino cuisine at Ristorante delle Mitre, where history meets culinary excellence in Intramuros, Manila.
Sky Deck View Bar
1.3 km
Experience breathtaking views of Manila's skyline while enjoying exquisite cocktails at Sky Deck View Bar in Intramuros.
Raffaele Woodfired Pizza, The Bayleaf Hotel
1.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Raffaele Woodfired Pizza in Intramuros – where tradition meets modern dining.
Barbara's Heritage Restaurant
1.3 km
Discover authentic Filipino cuisine at Barbara's Heritage Restaurant in Intramuros – where tradition meets taste!
9 SPOONS - The Bayleaf Intramuros
1.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite Filipino cuisine at 9 SPOONS - The Bayleaf Intramuros in Manila.
I-TOP VIEW CAFE AND RESTAURANT
1.4 km
Experience stunning views and delicious cuisine at I-TOP VIEW CAFE AND RESTAURANT in Intramuros, where history meets culinary excellence.
Gerry's SM Manila (Gerry's Grill)
1.5 km
Experience authentic Filipino cuisine at Gerry's Grill in SM City Manila – where tradition meets flavor in a vibrant atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Para Shop Manila
0.2 km
Explore your creativity at The Para Shop Manila, where a world of crafting possibilities awaits every visitor in the vibrant heart of Binondo.
Divisoria Public Market
0.5 km
Explore the colorful and lively Divisoria Public Market in Manila, a shopping haven for unique finds and local delicacies.
168 Shopping Mall
0.5 km
Explore the bustling 168 Shopping Mall in Binondo, a shopping paradise with diverse brands and delicious dining options in Manila.
Tutuban Center
0.7 km
Discover affordable shopping and authentic Filipino crafts at Tutuban Center in Manila, where culture and commerce meet in a vibrant mall experience.
Souvenir Online Shop
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant Souvenir Online Shop in San Nicolas, Manila, for authentic Filipino crafts and unforgettable keepsakes from your travels.
MB-Sunstar Handicraft
0.9 km
Explore the heart of Filipino craftsmanship at MB-Sunstar Handicraft, where every piece tells a story and makes for a perfect souvenir.
Carriedo Arcade
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant shopping scene of Carriedo Arcade in Quiapo, Manila, where affordable fashion meets local culture and lively atmosphere.
Lomentigar Bridal Bouique and Souvenir Collections
0.9 km
Explore the charm of Lomentigar Bridal Boutique, where exquisite bridal wear meets authentic Filipino souvenirs in the heart of Binondo, Manila.
Best Fashion Store In Manila
1.0 km
Explore the Best Fashion Store in Manila for trendy clothing and exceptional service in the heart of Quiapo's vibrant shopping scene.
Not gift shop
1.0 km
Discover unique Filipino crafts and souvenirs at Not Gift Shop in Quiapo, Manila - a treasure trove of local artistry and culture.
Manila Canvas
1.0 km
Discover authentic Filipino souvenirs at Manila Canvas, a charming store in Fort Santiago, Intramuros, where culture and artistry come to life.
Tesoros
1.0 km
Discover authentic Filipino souvenirs at Tesoros in Intramuros, where culture and craftsmanship come together in a vibrant shopping experience.
Giftshop Of Manila Cathedral
1.1 km
Explore the Giftshop of Manila Cathedral for a unique blend of books and souvenirs nestled in the heart of Intramuros, Manila's historic district.
Luz Store
1.1 km
Explore Luz Store in Intramuros for an authentic shopping experience filled with local crafts and Filipino culture, rich in history and charm.
The Papier Tole Shop
1.3 km
Immerse yourself in the creativity of The Papier Tole Shop, where Manila's vibrant paper art and local craftsmanship come alive in Intramuros.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ko-Sing-Gaw-Lo
0.8 km
Discover the delicious grilled delights of Ko-Sing-Gaw-Lo in Intramuros, a historic gem in Manila that combines culinary excellence with rich cultural heritage.
Planet Shakers Mobile Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
Experience the innovative cocktail culture at Planet Shakers Mobile Cocktail Bar in Manila, where every drink promises a unique adventure.
Grotto Hookah Lounge
1.1 km
Discover Grotto Hookah Lounge in Intramuros, a perfect blend of comfort, culture, and flavorful hookah experiences in Manila's historic heart.
San Villa Bar and Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover the flavors of the Philippines at San Villa Bar and Restaurant in Intramuros, a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delight.
Pacific Moon Bar & Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience a delightful blend of tradition and modernity at the Pacific Moon Bar & Restaurant, where culinary excellence meets stunning views in Intramuros.
Chibz Restobar
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine at Chibz Restobar in the heart of Intramuros, Manila.
Batala Bar / Philippine Artisan Trade
1.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of the Philippines at Batala Bar, a charming café and beer hall in the historic Intramuros, Manila.
Yok-Do Bar & Grill
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Manila at Yok-Do Bar & Grill, where every bite is a celebration of culinary excellence.
Tap Room
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Tap Room, a premier pub in Manila offering local brews and delicious bites in a welcoming setting.
Liquid Bar
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Liquid Bar, a unique pub located in Manila Ocean Park, offering refreshing drinks and lively atmosphere.
Vin55 Wine Bar & Restaurant
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite wines at Vin55 Wine Bar & Restaurant in the heart of Ermita, Manila.
White Moon Bar
2.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement at White Moon Bar, nestled within Manila Ocean Park, offering stunning ocean views and delightful flavors.
Lovebirds Bar
2.5 km
Discover the romantic ambiance of Lovebirds Bar in Ermita, Manila, where delectable drinks and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Toshie's Bar And Restaurant
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine at Toshie's Bar And Restaurant in the heart of Ermita, Manila.
Night Sky
2.9 km
Discover Manila's nightlife at Night Sky, a bar where exquisite drinks meet a cozy ambiance under a starlit atmosphere.
