Things To Do
in Marikina City
Marikina City is a bustling urban center situated in the eastern part of Metro Manila, Philippines. Known as the "Shoe Capital of the Philippines," Marikina is famous for its local shoe industry and annual Shoe Festival. It is also recognized for its clean and orderly surroundings, well-maintained parks, and the Marikina River that runs through the city.
Marikina City is a hub of cultural and recreational activities, offering a mix of traditional and modern attractions for locals and tourists alike.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Marikina River Park, enjoying a peaceful stroll and beautiful views. Grab breakfast at a nearby café to fuel up for your adventures.
Head to the Shoe Museum to delve into the city's rich shoemaking history. After that, enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant known for its delicious Filipino dishes.
Wind down with a visit to the Marikina Sports Center for recreational activities. End your day with a calming walk along the riverbanks as sunset approaches.
Visit the Marikina Nature Park and spend the morning hiking and appreciating nature. Take along a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the beauty.
In the afternoon, participate in activities like kayaking or biking around the park. Don't miss lunch at one of the food stalls offering snacks and refreshments.
As the sun sets, enjoy a quiet moment at the park's viewing deck, overlooking the surroundings. Conclude your evening with a visit to a cozy local café for dessert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Well-known for its shoe industry, often called the 'Shoe Capital of the Philippines'.
- Good accessibility to Metro Manila and surrounding areas.
- Vibrant local food scene with a variety of cuisines.
- Community-oriented neighborhoods with a strong sense of belonging.
- Programs for environmental sustainability and green spaces.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours due to proximity to Metro Manila.
- Risk of flooding during the rainy season.
- Limited job opportunities outside the shoe industry.
- Urbanization has led to some loss of green spaces.
- Public transportation options can be limited.
- Occasional issues with waste management.
Best Activities in Marikina City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic Marikina River, and take in the fresh air and natural beauty of the surroundings.
Explore the vast biking trails and tracks at Marikina Sports Center, offering an exciting outdoor adventure for cycling enthusiasts.
Gather friends and family for a delightful picnic at Marikina Freedom Park, a spacious and peaceful outdoor setting for relaxation and socializing.
Tours
Uncover the best of Marikina City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Marikina City
Visit one of these nice places.
The park provides a beautiful riverside view with several photo opportunities, including the giant shoes monument and the picturesque surroundings.
Offers a scenic view of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains, ideal for capturing panoramic shots and cityscapes.
A commercial and recreational hub with a riverside boardwalk that offers stunning views of the Marikina River and the surrounding greenery.
Food in Marikina City
Marikina City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish made of ground pork, carrots, and raisins wrapped in rice paper and then deep-fried. Best savored at Gil Fernando Avenue, a popular food hub in Marikina City.
Must-Try!
A colorful layered rice cake made of glutinous rice and coconut milk, often topped with latik (toasted coconut milk residue). Look for this delightful treat at local bakeries and bakeshops scattered across Marikina City.
A dish of rice noodles topped with a flavorful mix of seafood, eggs, and various garnishes. Try authentic Pancit Malabon at the stalls in Marikina Public Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Marikina City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling marketplace offering an array of street food delights such as kwek-kwek (battered and deep-fried quail eggs), fish balls, and squid balls. The market is a treasure trove of local street food and snacks.
A popular spot for foodies, featuring an assortment of food stalls offering an eclectic mix of street food, grilled specialties, and refreshing beverages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Marikina City, it is important to show respect for elders by using respectful language and gestures when interacting with them.
When visiting religious sites or attending formal events in Marikina City, it is respectful to dress in a conservative manner, covering shoulders and knees.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home in Marikina City as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the household.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Marikina City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Marikina City
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Marikina City, Philippines is not mandatory but is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and other service industries. A typical tip is around 10% of the total bill amount.
Payment in Marikina City, Philippines is commonly made in cash, although credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments. It's advisable to carry enough cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Marikina City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Marikina City as the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities. Expect warm temperatures and lower chances of rain.
During this season, Marikina City experiences frequent rainfall and higher humidity. Visitors should expect occasional heavy rains and some indoor activities may be affected.
Marikina City at Night
Hiking in Marikina City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking area featuring stunning rice terraces and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Popular for hiking and nature walks, Wawa River offers beautiful landscapes and a peaceful environment.
A hiking spot along the river with picturesque views and trails that are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
A lovely nature reserve with well-maintained trails, perfect for a day hike surrounded by nature.
Offers a variety of trails with different difficulty levels, as well as scenic views and natural attractions.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Marikina City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Marikina City by plane.
The main international airport serving Manila and its surrounding metropolitan area, located approximately 17 kilometers from Marikina City.
An international airport located in Pampanga, about 80 kilometers from Marikina City, which serves as an alternative to Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Located in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, approximately 100 kilometers from Marikina City, this airport services both domestic and international flights.
Located in Cebu, about 600 kilometers from Marikina City, it is the second busiest international airport in the Philippines.
Situated in Davao City, approximately 950 kilometers from Marikina City. It is one of the major airports in the Philippines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Marikina City, predominantly speaking the Tagalog language.
A smaller ethnic group found in Marikina, originally from the northern provinces of the Philippines.
Community of Chinese descent, contributing to the local economy and culture.
A minority group with historical roots in the Philippines, particularly in socio-economic influence.
Includes various smaller groups such as Waray, Ilocano, and Bisayan individuals.
The Soul of Marikina City
Discover the essence of Marikina City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Marikina City, with many local leagues and community courts available for residents.
Badminton enjoys a strong following, with numerous clubs and recreational facilities where people of all ages can play.
Volleyball, both indoor and beach varieties, is popular among schools and community groups, often featuring in local tournaments.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, with local leagues providing opportunities for young athletes to compete.
Running is a popular recreational activity, with many events and fun runs organized throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Marikina City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Marikina City caters to vegetarians and vegans with several eateries offering plant-based dishes. Notable venues include The Daily Beans Cafe, which features a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at select restaurants like Rustic Mornings by Isabelo, known for its gluten-free pancakes and other delectable gluten-free dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Marikina City with these cultural adventures.
