Explore Intramuros on a Budget: The Best Transport and Tour Options

If you’re planning to visit Intramuros, Manila’s historic gem, you’ll want to do it right. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a unique city escape, this guide will walk you through the best ways to get around Intramuros—affordably and efficiently.

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Also read: 10 Intramuros Tourist Spots: An Essential Guide for Pinoys

Getting around Intramuros: Your transport options

Pedicabs: The old-school way to roam

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Pedicabs are one of the most charming ways to explore the streets of Intramuros. These bicycle-powered rides offer a laid-back and eco-friendly way to see the sights. Fares vary depending on your route but expect to pay around PHP 50-150 for a short trip.

Jeepneys: Budget-friendly and local

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For just PHP 15 - 25, you can hop on a jeepney that passes through Intramuros. Look for ones bound for Pier, Baclaran, or Divisoria, as they typically pass by Manila Cathedral and nearby areas. Be prepared for a bit of a squeeze—it’s all part of the local experience.

Tricycles: Quick and easy rides

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If you need to zip through narrow streets or get to a specific spot, tricycles are your best bet. They’re more expensive than pedicabs, but they can take you directly to your destination within and around Intramuros.

The iconic Tranvia: A nostalgic ride through Manila’s history

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This February, Intramuros visitors are in for a treat as the Tranvia makes a special return. Connecting the historic streets of Intramuros with Escolta, this free ride offers a rare opportunity to experience Manila’s past in motion. Running on select dates, February 15-16 and 22-23, 2025 from 10 AM to 6 PM, the Tranvia will take passengers on a scenic route between these cultural landmarks, making it easier to appreciate the city’s colonial architecture and artistic heritage.

The pick-up point is at General Luna Street in front of Palacio del Gobernador, and rides will be available every hour. This initiative not only revives a piece of Manila’s transportation history but also enhances accessibility for those eager to explore the area’s vibrant art and history scene.

Whether you’re revisiting old favourites or discovering Intramuros for the first time, the Tranvia is a must-try experience that blends nostalgia with modern-day exploration.

Must-Try tours in Intramuros

Walking tours: The best way to soak it all in

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If you love taking your time and appreciating details, a walking tour is a must. Intramuros is best explored on foot, with its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and historic plazas offering a step back in time. Guided tours, such as those by Bambike and Old Manila Walks, provide deep insights into the history, culture, and hidden stories of this walled city. Bambike offers a unique experience where you cycle through the district on bamboo bikes, blending sustainability with heritage appreciation.

Meanwhile, Old Manila Walks provides engaging storytelling as you traverse historic sites, ensuring you leave with a richer understanding of the city’s past. These tours take you to landmarks such as Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Plaza San Luis, making them ideal for history enthusiasts who want a well-rounded exploration.

IkotMNL LRT-1 Heritage Transit Tour: Train + history adventure

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For those who enjoy both public transit and historical exploration, the IkotMNL LRT-1 Heritage Transit Tour offers an exciting way to visit historical sites along the LRT-1 route. This guided tour takes you beyond Intramuros, stopping at key heritage locations near train stations, such as the Rizal Monument in Luneta Park and the Metropolitan Theater.

It combines modern commuting with a glimpse into Manila’s storied past, making it perfect for urban adventurers who want a blend of nostalgia and efficiency. This experience is a great way to see how Manila’s old and new transport systems intersect, offering a fresh perspective on the city’s development over the years.

DIY tour: Explore at your own pace

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For travellers who prefer flexibility, a self-guided tour of Intramuros is a fantastic option. Start your journey at Fort Santiago, where you can walk through centuries-old dungeons and see the exact steps José Rizal took before his execution. From there, visit the Manila Cathedral, a stunning landmark that has been rebuilt multiple times due to earthquakes and wars. A short walk away is San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate baroque architecture and centuries-old religious artefacts.

If you’re in the mood for a scenic experience, rent a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) and ride through the historic streets for a touch of old-world charm. With a bit of planning, a DIY tour allows you to take in the sights at your own pace while immersing yourself in the beauty of Manila’s past.

Also read: 10 Classic Restaurants in Intramuros for Timeless Filipino Cuisine

Final tips for a smooth Intramuros trip

• Wear comfy shoes: You’ll be walking on cobblestone streets.

• Bring cash: Some transport options don’t accept digital payments.

• Stay hydrated and bring an umbrella: It can get hot out there.

• Respect the heritage sites: Intramuros is a living museum.

With all these transport options, tours, and the exciting free Tranvia event, Intramuros has never been easier (or more fun) to explore. Pack your sense of adventure and dive into Manila’s most historic district today.