Best Places to Visit in Manila in December
December is magical in Manila — the Philippines is known for having the longest Christmas celebration in the world, and December is its grand finale. Cool weather (24-30°C), spectacular light displays, Simbang Gabi (dawn masses), the Giant Lantern Festival in nearby Pampanga, and festive markets create an unforgettable atmosphere. Rizal Day on December 30 honors the national hero at Luneta Park, and New Year's Eve brings spectacular (and loud!) fireworks across the metro. It's the ideal month for experiencing Filipino culture at its most joyous.
Ayala Triangle Gardens
A beautifully landscaped urban park in the heart of Makati CBD, bounded by Ayala Avenue, Makati Avenue, and Paseo de Roxas. Mature trees, manicured lawns, pathways, and water features create serenity among skyscrapers. I...
Opening Hours
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
Entry Fee
Free
Type
Park
Best Time to Visit
December for lights, mornings otherwise
How to Reach
Take MRT-3 to Ayala Station. 5-minute walk toward Paseo de Roxas.
Nearby Metro Station
Ayala
MRT-3 — 0.9 km
University of Santo Tomas (UST)
The oldest existing university in Asia, founded in 1611 by the Dominican Order. Older than Harvard by 25 years. The 21-hectare campus is a National Historical Landmark. The Main Building houses the Museum of Arts and Sci...
Opening Hours
Weekdays; Museum: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee
Free (museum may have small fee)
Type
University
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings or December for Paskuhan
How to Reach
Take LRT-1 to Legarda Station. 10-minute walk along Espana Boulevard.
Nearby Metro Station
Bambang
LRT-1 — 0.8 km
University of the Philippines Diliman
Flagship campus of the UP System, the premier state university. Covers 493 hectares in Quezon City. The Oblation statue is the iconic symbol. The Sunken Garden hosts events including the annual December Lantern Parade. K...
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours; offices weekdays
Entry Fee
Free
Type
University
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings or December
How to Reach
Take MRT-3 to Quezon Avenue Station then jeepney to Philcoa. Or LRT-2 to Katipunan Station via CP Garcia gate.
Star City
Manila's most popular amusement park along Roxas Boulevard in CCP Complex area. Offers roller coasters, drop towers, Star Flyer, kiddie rides, Snow World (sub-zero experience), carnival games, 4D theater, and horror hous...
Opening Hours
4:00 PM - 12:00 AM (weekdays); 2:00 PM - 12:00 AM (weekends)
Entry Fee
PHP 100-800 (varies by package)
Type
Entertainment
Best Time to Visit
October to January
How to Reach
Take LRT-1 to Vito Cruz Station, then taxi to CCP Complex area.
Nearby Metro Station
Gil Puyat
LRT-1 — 1.8 km
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