Things To Do
in Marikina City

Marikina City, located in the Philippines, is known as the Shoe Capital of the Philippines due to its rich history in shoemaking. This bustling urban area is characterized by its vibrant community and numerous parks, making it a blend of modern living and nature. The city is also home to a variety of cultural and historical landmarks, reflecting its heritage.

With a growing food scene and friendly residents, Marikina offers a unique experience for both locals and visitors alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Marikina's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Marikina Shoe Museum to learn about the city's shoemaking history.

afternoon
:

Head to the scenic Marikina River Park for a leisurely stroll and enjoy lunch at a riverside café.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant and explore the night market for some street food.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the historic San Mateo Cathedral and admire its architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful parks such as Riverbanks Center, where you can also shop for local crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural show or visit a local bar for some live music and drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a local restaurant$3-$7
Coffee at a café$1-$3
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$2-$5
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-$40
🛍️Local handicraft$5-$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Diverse food scene with local delicacies.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Occasional flooding during heavy rains.
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Magandang umaga" - Good morning
  • "Saan ang CR?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Kumusta?" - How are you?
  • "Paalam" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Marikina City

Visit one of these nice places.

Marikina River Park

Offers picturesque views of the river and lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.

Shoe Museum

A cultural landmark with unique architecture and historical artifacts, ideal for capturing the city's heritage.

Concepcion Uno Church

A beautifully designed church with stunning architecture that makes for great photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Marikina City

Marikina City’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Filipino flavors and modern gastronomic innovations, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Marikina City Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sinigang na Baboy

A savory pork soup with a tangy tamarind base, often enjoyed with rice.

Must-Try!

Pancit Marikina

A local noodle dish filled with a variety of meats and vegetables, reflecting the city's culinary heritage.

Kakanin

Traditional rice cakes often served as snacks or desserts, showcasing local ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marikina Night Market

A vibrant night market offering a variety of local street foods, snacks, and drinks.

Food Street at the Riverbanks Center

A popular spot for street food vendors serving delicious local dishes in a lively atmosphere.

Climate Guide

Weather

Marikina City has a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: the dry season from December to May, characterized by warm and sunny weather; the wet season from June to November, which experiences heavy rainfall; and a cooler period from November to January, where temperatures drop slightly. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F) throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for elders

It is customary to greet and show respect to older individuals.

Dress modestly

While casual wear is common, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in churches.

Use of 'po' and 'opo'

These are polite expressions used when addressing elders or showing respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Marikina City is generally considered safe for tourists, with a visible police presence and community vigilance. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency numbers are easily accessible, and local authorities are responsive.

Tipping in Marikina City

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated, generally around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to May)

Expect warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Rainy Season (June to November)

Frequent rain showers can occur; it's advisable to carry umbrellas and wear waterproof clothing.

Christmas Season (November to January)

The city is beautifully decorated with lights and holds various festivities and events.

Summer (April to May)

Hot and humid, perfect for enjoying ice desserts and local summer treats.

Nightlife Guide

Marikina City at Night

Marikina's nightlife features a mix of casual bars and restaurants where locals gather for drinks and live music. Popular spots include rooftop bars with city views and local pubs that host karaoke nights. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great place to socialize and unwind after a long day.

Hiking in Marikina City

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Montalban Gorge

A popular hiking destination featuring rugged terrains and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Wawa Dam

Offers a moderate hike with picturesque views of the dam and river, perfect for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Marikina City by plane.

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)

Located about 20 km from Marikina, this is the main international gateway to the Philippines, offering connections to various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Marikina City is quite walkable in its central areas, with pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and parks. Key locations such as shopping centers and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some neighborhoods may have less infrastructure for walking, so it's advisable to plan your route ahead.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Working Class

Many residents are employed in various industries, contributing to the city's economy.

Students

The presence of schools and universities makes Marikina home to a vibrant student population.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A highly popular sport in the Philippines, with many local courts and teams in Marikina.

Volleyball

Often played in schools and parks, volleyball is another favorite among residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Marikina can be heavy during peak hours, especially on main roads leading to Metro Manila. Public transportation options include jeepneys, tricycles, and buses, providing affordable ways to navigate the city. Ride-sharing apps are also available, making it convenient to travel around without the hassle of parking.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Marikina City.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check for meat stock in broths.

Halal

Several eateries cater to halal diets, particularly in areas with a significant Muslim population.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Marikina offers access to various healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. The city is served by Marikina Valley Medical Center and other local healthcare providers, ensuring that both residents and visitors can receive medical attention when needed. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies are common throughout the area.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide