Things To Do
in Binondo
Binondo, Manila, is the world's oldest Chinatown, where centuries of Chinese-Filipino culture meet the bustle of a modern megacity. Narrow, lively streets are lined with temples, bakeries, and family-run eateries that spill onto Ongpin Street. The district is a compact, walkable maze of markets where aromas of garlic and soy mingle with sizzling noodles.
It’s a sensory destination for food lovers, history buffs, and Chinatown aesthetics all in one bite-sized neighborhood.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Binondo Church, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, where you can witness the locals engaging in their morning rituals. Afterward, stroll through Ongpin Street, famous for its Chinese shops and eateries, and enjoy a traditional dim sum breakfast at one of the local restaurants. As you walk, take in the vibrant atmosphere and the blend of Filipino and Chinese cultures that define Binondo.
Spend your afternoon at the bustling 168 Mall, where you can shop for unique souvenirs, clothing, and local delicacies. After a bit of retail therapy, indulge in a hearty lunch at a local eatery, sampling dishes such as Peking duck or fried rice. As the afternoon sun begins to set, consider visiting the nearby Chinatown arch for a perfect photo opportunity.
As evening falls, head to the historic Escolta Street, where you can enjoy the nightlife and see the beautifully lit architecture of old Manila. Stop by a popular restaurant to savor the famous Binondo food trip, trying delicacies like lumpia and siopao. Finally, end your evening with a leisurely walk along the Pasig River, taking in the view of the city and reflecting on your day.
Kick off your culinary adventure with a visit to the famous Café Mezzanine, known for its delicious breakfast fare and its role in supporting local firefighters. Enjoy a steaming bowl of congee paired with a side of freshly made siopao as you soak in the café’s cozy ambiance. After breakfast, take a walking tour of the area, stopping at various street stalls to sample local treats like hopia and kikiam.
In the afternoon, join a food tour that highlights the best of Binondo’s culinary offerings, led by a knowledgeable guide. Visit iconic eateries and hidden gems, tasting dishes like pancit canton and sweet and sour pork, while learning about the history behind each dish. Grab a refreshing drink at a local tea shop before heading to the next stop on your tour.
For dinner, indulge in a banquet of flavors at the famed President Restaurant, known for its authentic Chinese dishes. Savor their signature dishes while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation. After dinner, explore the night markets where you can shop for snacks and souvenirs in the lively streets of Binondo.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥤Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍡Street snack or dumplings | $1-3 |
| 🍜Noodle or mid-range meal | $5-12 |
| 🧁Dessert or bakery item | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class food scene in a compact, walkable area
- Rich cultural heritage and family-run eateries
- Colorful street scenes perfect for photography
- Variety of historical temples and churches
- Can be crowded and chaotic, especially Divisoria
- Some areas feel unsafe after dark; stay vigilant
- Traffic can be heavy and travel times variable
- "Kamusta po" - Hello (polite)
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pakiusap" - Please
- "Nasaan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Nagsasalita ka ba ng Ingles?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Binondo
Visit one of these nice places.
Bustling storefronts, neon signs, and a kinetic mix of people and scooters make for dynamic street photography.
The historic church faces a busy plaza with colonial architecture and a sense of ritual life around mass times.
A serene red-and-gold temple complex ideal for portraiture and quiet interior shots amid ornate details.
Powder-bright market aisles and stacked goods offer vibrant, high-contrast night photography opportunities.
Food in Binondo
Binondo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flaky pastry filled with mung bean or red bean paste; a staple from iconic bakeries on Ongpin like Eng Bee Tin.
Must-Try!
Steamed buns filled with pork, chicken, or mushrooms; a convenient bite from many eateries in Binondo.
Glutinous rice cake often glazed and pan-fried; a sweet staple around Chinatown bakeries year-round.
Thick, comforting noodle soup with savory broth and toppings; a favored street-side or casual restaurant dish.
Rich braised pork with soy and spices, often served with egg and vegetables at Chinese restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vast wholesale-retail hub with countless stalls selling fabrics, gadgets, and quick bites; a must-see for bargain hunters and food explorers.
Vibrant collection of dim sum stalls, dumplings, sesame balls, and other sliced-and-diced snacks—great for a casual, in-the-street-food vibe.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and speak softly when visiting temples and churches; observe local customs and remove hats where appropriate.
Use polite language and terms like po when addressing elders; greet with a nod or a light handshake in casual settings.
Bargaining is common in Divisoria, but do so with courtesy and a smile; avoid pushing through crowds aggressively.
Safety
Tipping in Binondo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory, but a small amount (around 5–10% or rounding up) is appreciated if service charge isn’t included. In street stalls or markets, cash is often best.
Cash is widely accepted; many larger eateries accept debit/credit cards and mobile wallets (GCash, PayMaya). Some small stalls may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with peak humidity; water, lightweight clothing, and sun protection are essential. Plan outdoor strolls in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and bring water.
Pleasantly cooler days and cool evenings; great for exploring on foot and for photography without excessive heat.
Likely heavy rains and high humidity; carry a compact rain jacket and umbrella, and anticipate occasional flooding near lower-lying streets.
Intermittent rain and shifting humidity; flexible plans help; indoor eating and temple visits can be a comfortable fallback.
Binondo at Night
Hiking in Binondo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A green escape in Quezon City with trails, a nature reserve, and picnic areas suitable for a half-day hike.
A renowned limestone karst trail outside Manila offering scenic hikes and viewpoint spots—make a day trip of it.
Airports
How to reach Binondo by plane.
Main international airport serving Manila; reachable by taxi or rideshare in about 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
Located in Angeles City, about 80–100 km from Manila; alternative gateway with highway access and long-haul connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A long-standing, culturally rich community with businesses rooted in Binondo’s markets and temples.
Residents who work in markets, bakeries, and eateries across the district, contributing to its lively daily rhythms.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the Philippines, widely played in schools, parks, and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Binondo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Chinese-In Filipino dishes can be made vegetarian with tofu and vegetables. Ask about oil type (preferably neutral oil) and avoid meat-based stocks; many places will accommodate if you request vegetable-only preparations.