Things To Do
in Binondo
Binondo in the Philippines is known as the world's oldest Chinatown, established by the Spanish colonizers in 1594. It is a vibrant area filled with bustling markets, authentic Chinese restaurants, and historic temples. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleyways lined with traditional shops selling a variety of goods.
Binondo also hosts colorful festivities during Chinese New Year and other cultural celebrations.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local dim sum restaurant. Wander through the bustling streets, taking in the sights and sounds of Binondo.
Visit the historic Binondo Church and soak in the architecture. Afterward, try some popular street food, such as lumpia and siopao.
End your day with a leisurely stroll along Ongpin Street, sampling various delicacies. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as the area comes alive at night.
Kick off your day by indulging in some authentic Chinese congee at a local eatery. Explore the street vendors for breakfast snacks like hopia.
Join a food tour to discover Binondo's hidden culinary gems. Don't miss tasting the famous noodle dishes that the area is known for.
Wrap up your food adventure with dinner at a popular Chinese restaurant. Embrace the local culture by trying their specialty dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, being one of the oldest districts in Manila.
- Home to a vibrant Chinese community, offering diverse culinary experiences and festivals.
- Bustling markets and shops, providing a unique shopping experience for local goods and traditional crafts.
- Access to various historical landmarks and tourist spots, such as the Binondo Church and Ongpin Street.
- Strong sense of community with a lively atmosphere, particularly during celebrations and events.
- High levels of congestion and traffic, making transportation challenging.
- Potential safety concerns in crowded areas, particularly for tourists.
- Limited public amenities and infrastructures, such as parks and recreational spaces.
- Air pollution and noise due to dense urban activity.
- Possibility of experiencing language barriers, as some locals primarily speak Chinese or Tagalog.
Best Activities in Binondo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Escolta Street lined with heritage buildings, trendy shops, and art galleries.
Visit Binondo Church, one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the Philippines, for a peaceful retreat.
Stroll through the bustling Chinatown lanes, filled with vibrant street markets, authentic Cantonese cuisine, and rich cultural experiences.
Tours
Uncover the best of Binondo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Binondo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a beautiful view of the Binondo Church and surrounding buildings, perfect for photos of the historical architecture.
Provides a picturesque view of the Pasig River and the Manila skyline, ideal for capturing the city's beauty.
Boasts panoramic views of Binondo and its vibrant streets, ideal for capturing the bustling atmosphere and cityscape.
Food in Binondo
Binondo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular noodle dish often served during celebrations and gatherings. Try the pancit canton, a stir-fried noodle dish with meat and vegetables, at Sincerity Café and Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A type of Chinese-Filipino pastry filled with sweet paste made of malt and lotus seed. Enjoy the traditional hopiang baboy at Eng Bee Tin Bakery.
A steamed bun filled with savory meat filling. Sample the delicious siopao at Masuki Mami Restaurant, known for its authentic Chinese-style dumplings and other delicacies.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Binondo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this food tour that takes you through the vibrant streets of Binondo, offering a diverse range of street food delicacies, including dumplings, siomai, spring rolls, and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Binondo, it is important to show respect to elders by using polite language, offering deference, and listening attentively to their advice and stories.
When visiting temples or places of worship in Binondo, it's essential to observe proper etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering, dressing modestly, and engaging in quiet and respectful behavior.
When dining in Binondo, it's important to understand food customs, such as not wasting food, using utensils properly, and showing appreciation for the meal and the efforts of the host.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Binondo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Binondo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in the Philippines, including Binondo. However, it is common to leave a small tip of around 10% in restaurants and for other services if the service is exceptional.
Cash is still widely used for most transactions in Binondo, but credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments. It's advisable to carry enough cash for smaller purchases and in areas where card payment may not be available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Binondo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Binondo, Philippines, as the weather is sunny and warm. This period is ideal for exploring the bustling Chinatown, enjoying outdoor activities, and participating in various cultural events and festivals.
During the wet season, visitors to Binondo can expect heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. This period may limit outdoor activities, but it is a good time to experience the local culture, cuisine, and indoor attractions such as traditional Chinese restaurants and historical sites.
Binondo at Night
Hiking in Binondo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 70 kilometers from Binondo, Mount Marami offers scenic views and various trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Though a bit further away, Mount Pulag is famous for its sea of clouds and is a popular trekking destination, approximately 250 kilometers from Binondo.
Only about 60 kilometers from Binondo, Mount Batulao features several trails and is known for its rolling hills and stunning landscapes.
Visit Taal Volcano, roughly 90 kilometers away, for a unique hiking experience with views of the crater lake and the surrounding area.
Located around 80 kilometers from Binondo, Pico de Loro is known for its distinctive peak and offers a challenging hike with rewarding views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Binondo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Binondo by plane.
The primary international airport serving Manila and its surrounding regions including Binondo.
Located in Pampanga, it serves as a major gateway to Central Luzon and is about 80 kilometers from Binondo.
Located in Zambales, this airport is approximately 100 kilometers away from Binondo and serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Binondo, with deep historical roots and significant cultural influence in the area, particularly in commerce and cuisine.
Residents primarily from the broader Filipino population, representing a mix of various ethnic groups and traditions.
Includes individuals from other Southeast Asian countries who have settled in Binondo for trade and commerce.
A smaller demographic composed of descendants of Spanish colonizers, contributing to the cultural diversity in the area.
Includes various other groups or individuals residing in Binondo, contributing to its multicultural environment.
The Soul of Binondo
Discover the essence of Binondo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the Philippines, including Binondo, where local leagues and street games are commonly played.
Badminton is widely enjoyed in Binondo, with many players engaging in friendly matches at community centers and sports facilities.
Volleyball has a strong following in Binondo, with numerous tournaments and social games organized throughout the year.
Traditional games like 'Tumbang Preso' and 'Sipa' are played by children and adults alike, reflecting cultural heritage.
Boxing is a beloved sport in the Philippines, with many local gyms and training centers found in Binondo, nurturing young talents.
Table tennis is popular in Binondo, with many enthusiasts playing at schools and recreational centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Binondo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Binondo is famous for its meat and seafood dishes, some restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan variations of traditional Chinese and Filipino dishes. It's best to check with the staff for suitable options.
Many traditional Chinese and Filipino dishes in Binondo may contain soy sauce and other gluten-containing ingredients. However, some restaurants may offer gluten-free versions of popular dishes upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Binondo with these cultural adventures.
