Fort Santiago, Manila: Address, Phone Number, Fort Santiago Reviews: 4/5
Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago
4
About
This museum and public park was built as a stone fortress at the turn of the 17th century and marked the beginning of the walled city's riverside barricades.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
943 within 3 miles

Eng Bee Tin
236
0.5 mi$ • Chinese • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options

Max's Restaurant
39
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Filipino • Asian

Batala Bar
1
0.2 miBrew Pub • Filipino • Bar • Asian

Teriyaki Boy ERMITA
21
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Sushi • Asian
Chowking
5
0.3 miChinese • Filipino • Fast Food • Asian

Happy Wings & Waffles
6
0.3 miAmerican • Cafe • International • Deli
Bacolod Chicken House
1
0.3 miAsian
Hungry Juan ERMITA
2
0.2 miFilipino • Asian

Starbucks
35
0.4 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Cafe
Chic Boy INTRAMUROS
5
0.3 mi$ • Fast Food
Attractions
281 within 6 miles

Intramuros
3,551
0.3 miNeighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

Museo Filipino Intramuros
87
0.4 miSpeciality Museums • History Museums

San Nicolas Fire Station
1
0.2 miHistoric Sites

Manila Cathedral
1,123
0.3 miReligious Sites

Almacenes Curtain Wall
6
0.2 miArchitectural Buildings

Antonio Luna Birthplace Historical Marker
1
0.2 miHistoric Sites

San Agustin Museum
405
0.5 miHistory Museums

San Agustin Church
1,566
0.6 miReligious Sites

Palacio del Gobernador
57
0.3 miGovernment Buildings

Casa Manila
427
0.5 miHistoric Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
2,080 reviews
Excellent
677
Very good
949
Average
381
Poor
60
Terrible
13
Makoto
Saitama, Japan53 contributions
Apr 2019
Visiting Fort Santiago is going through the different phases of Philippine history. The Spanish architecture of the buildings reminds us of Spain’s colonial rule, which heavily influenced the Philippine culture and psyche, making the country a unique country in Asia for having a lot of things in common with the Latin world and Europe.
The prison cell and museum for Jose Rizal provided an educational tour about his life. His trial room, and the depiction of his footsteps from his prison cell going to where he would be executed enriched my understanding about his life.
The museum about Intramuros, Manila’s walled city had the miniature models of the grand, gorgeous buildings which Manila had, before the bombings during World War II destroyed them all and they were never rebuilt. Much of Manila was destroyed during the war, but most of the colonial buildings were never rebuilt. The museum gave us a glimpse of Manila’s glorious past which was destroyed during the war.
The place is great for students for their school trips, and also for tourists. There were lots of greenery, especially mango trees. The buildings and the gate are great for photos. The restrooms needed improvement though, but the entrance fee was cheap at 75 pesos. Overall, I love the place.
The prison cell and museum for Jose Rizal provided an educational tour about his life. His trial room, and the depiction of his footsteps from his prison cell going to where he would be executed enriched my understanding about his life.
The museum about Intramuros, Manila’s walled city had the miniature models of the grand, gorgeous buildings which Manila had, before the bombings during World War II destroyed them all and they were never rebuilt. Much of Manila was destroyed during the war, but most of the colonial buildings were never rebuilt. The museum gave us a glimpse of Manila’s glorious past which was destroyed during the war.
The place is great for students for their school trips, and also for tourists. There were lots of greenery, especially mango trees. The buildings and the gate are great for photos. The restrooms needed improvement though, but the entrance fee was cheap at 75 pesos. Overall, I love the place.
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
badmintontim
Hastings, UK4,534 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
This is well worth a visit here to see the historical fort and the museum inside - the entrance fee is very small so no problem there.
Beautiful place with nice gardens and statues.
Enjoy the museum as well.
Beautiful place with nice gardens and statues.
Enjoy the museum as well.
Written February 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Luz C
Houston, TX86 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
Markers document the historical landmarks; it is well lit and safe, with free entertainment at different spots.
Fort Santiago, the main fortress of Intramuros established by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi on the site of the former wooden fort of Rajah Soliman in 1572, was burned during the siege of the Chinese Pirate Lin Fen (Limahong) in 1574. It was reconstructed with local tuff (adobe) from 1590 - 1593. It was the citadel of the armies of four foreign powers: Spain 🇪🇸 from 1571 to 1898; Great Britain 🇬🇧 from 1762 through 1764 during the Seven Year War; United States 🇺🇸 from 1898 to 1946; and the Empire of Japan 🇯🇵 from 1942 through 1945 during the Second World War. It was declared a National Shrine and a National Monument in 1951 and as a National Cultural Treasure in 2014.
The marker, Last Walk to Martyrdom Trail, a centennial freedom trail characterized by the shoe prints of Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, memorializes the path he took to Bagumbayan from his cell in Fort Santiago in the early hours of December 30, 1896. It symbolizes the birth of the Filipino nation. The marker was unveiled on December 27, 1996 during the incumbency of His Excellency President Fidel V. Ramos.
Another point of interest for me was the Postigo de la Nuestra Señora de Soledad, a postern used as access from Fort Santiago to the Pasig River, from whence Lieutenant General Simon de Anda, leader of the Spanish Resistance against the British Occupation of Manila from 1762 through 1768 during the Seven Year War after a siege of Intramuros by the British Army.
A white stone cross marks the final resting place of approximately 600 Filipinos and Americans who were victims of atrocities including starvation and possibly suffocation by the Japanese Imperial Forces, during the last days of February 1945, who were found inside a nearby dungeon which had inner doors of massive iron bars and outer doors of iron plates on wood.
Fort Santiago, the main fortress of Intramuros established by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi on the site of the former wooden fort of Rajah Soliman in 1572, was burned during the siege of the Chinese Pirate Lin Fen (Limahong) in 1574. It was reconstructed with local tuff (adobe) from 1590 - 1593. It was the citadel of the armies of four foreign powers: Spain 🇪🇸 from 1571 to 1898; Great Britain 🇬🇧 from 1762 through 1764 during the Seven Year War; United States 🇺🇸 from 1898 to 1946; and the Empire of Japan 🇯🇵 from 1942 through 1945 during the Second World War. It was declared a National Shrine and a National Monument in 1951 and as a National Cultural Treasure in 2014.
The marker, Last Walk to Martyrdom Trail, a centennial freedom trail characterized by the shoe prints of Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, memorializes the path he took to Bagumbayan from his cell in Fort Santiago in the early hours of December 30, 1896. It symbolizes the birth of the Filipino nation. The marker was unveiled on December 27, 1996 during the incumbency of His Excellency President Fidel V. Ramos.
Another point of interest for me was the Postigo de la Nuestra Señora de Soledad, a postern used as access from Fort Santiago to the Pasig River, from whence Lieutenant General Simon de Anda, leader of the Spanish Resistance against the British Occupation of Manila from 1762 through 1768 during the Seven Year War after a siege of Intramuros by the British Army.
A white stone cross marks the final resting place of approximately 600 Filipinos and Americans who were victims of atrocities including starvation and possibly suffocation by the Japanese Imperial Forces, during the last days of February 1945, who were found inside a nearby dungeon which had inner doors of massive iron bars and outer doors of iron plates on wood.
Written March 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Anne06134369188
New York City, NY4 contributions
Sep 2021
Fort Santiago, as many already know, is a popular tourist attraction in the Philippines. But what it is now—a beautiful and remarkable tourist spot—owes it to the horrifying stories that took place centuries ago. And these stories are not like any other as these will definitely give you goosebumps. Hint: it’s like you’re starring in a horror or thriller film.
Written November 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
KGB777
Singapore, Singapore41,727 contributions
Feb 2020
I still remember visiting Fort Santiago on one of my previous visits to Manila around 14 years ago, and it remains just as impressive today. Very clean and well maintained, although clearly many of the buildings are in ruins. A fascinating way to experience the colonial era by visiting here.
Written June 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Nico Samneil Sy Salado
Cebu Island, Philippines576 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Place is well maintained. I could see that the 75 peso entrance is worth it. Their guards wesr the spanish time uniform of guardia sibil. Lights at night are awesome! A good place to roam when you are for history. The dungeon as what is hyped nowadays is not that amazing and you get to spend a few minutes due to the number of people visiting. Ugh.
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Haresh M
Mumbai, India11 contributions
Oct 2021 • Solo
Good stone construction, enjoyed going around in fort. Peaceful loving place to make love. Some local guide is necessary to understand its past or do google search before go there. Enjoyable place.
Written November 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Hana
Nantes, France48 contributions
Feb 2020
Well basically it's a fort that seems to have been renovated by just pouring concrete and not trying at all to make it look 'old' as it is. Its like you have a beautiful mural on your window and it breaks and then you just put a regular window. Like, just make it like it used to look like before! It's definitely one of the (only) places to see in Manila for tourists so its a must see. Beware of children beggars! I was clutching my purse like there is no tomorrow.. I haven't really felt unsafe but just really annoyed by the beggars. I'll probably never go there again and I'll just read about the history on the internet because it is quite interesting actually.
Written February 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
mel7155
Singapore, Singapore805 contributions
Mar 2022 • Couples
Pretty decent fort for 75 pesos entrance fee . Good for a 30-45 minutes if you are a history buff . Not a very interactive fort but good to wonder around the place to see a historic fort - similar to any first and important fort in Singapore , Melaka, Italy, France etc…
Useful to go to the tourist info and collect the useful info sheet on Intramuros sites within the fort . Actually no need for tour guides as the displays are self explanatory.
Should be done with the combination of visiting Cathedral, Casa Manila, Saint Augustine Church etc… All of these sites can be completed within 2 hours . No need for guided tour with the info sheet given .
Useful to go to the tourist info and collect the useful info sheet on Intramuros sites within the fort . Actually no need for tour guides as the displays are self explanatory.
Should be done with the combination of visiting Cathedral, Casa Manila, Saint Augustine Church etc… All of these sites can be completed within 2 hours . No need for guided tour with the info sheet given .
Written March 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Aaqarsh Aiyyar
Chennai (Madras), India2,454 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
I loved the visit to this fort that is soaked in rich history. I enjoyed the inspirational Rizal shine, dungeons and the media naranja with the view of pasig river. The entrance fee was 75 pesos. The information centre was helpful. You may not find any vegetarian food inside the fort. This is a must-visit in Manila.
Written March 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
How much is the entrance fee for students?
Linai8711
Manila, Philippines5 contributions
Regular entrance fee is 50 for students with school ID. 75 pesos for the rest👌
gud day, how about an educational tour for 30 students and 2 professors, how much its cost/ entrance fee?
annminky
United States1,459 contributions
We were charge Php 75 each to enter the Fort. You might get a discount if you’re taking your students for a tour. It’ll be best if you contact them ahead of time plus get a curator to give you the tour. Enjoy!!!
Byaheng-oldies
Hong Kong, China520 contributions
Do they have public carpark?
momo282389
Taipei, Taiwan5 contributions
They do have a car park space about 1 street away but it is a private one !
How to get here via lrt po?
eightysgirl1
Lebanon, OH15 contributions
I am not sure what Irt po? However, my husband had driver for the / weeks he was there. I would advise it if you can do it. Driving is very chaotic there and so different than in the States and Europe
How much is the Entrance Fee in Fort Santiago?
CCC
New Jersey86 contributions
50 for Adults, not sure for kids
Hi everyone! We're planning to schedule a non-commercial shoot on the first week of August. May I ask if there is a permit or fee needed for the said shoot? Thank you very much in advance!
Taxi818
Tampa, FL6 contributions
I don't think there is a charge to shoot anything. Everyone is helpful and friendly.
How much po permit pag nag pa shoot sa loob ng fort santiago thanks
CCC
New Jersey86 contributions
No Idea. Best to check from the Manila City Hall
mattyc25
Brisbane, Australia1 contribution
WHat are the opening hours and days?
Tom Pamperin
Washington DC, DC389 contributions
We got there about 9:00 and it was open. I think they close at 6:00
Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Santiago
- We recommend booking Fort Santiago tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 25 Fort Santiago tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Fort Santiago:
- Manila Old and New: Sightseeing Tour Including Intramuros and Fort Santiago (From $55.00)
- Experience Intramuros with Bamboo Bicycle - Ecotours (From $37.34)
- Manila Intramuros Historical Walking Tour (From $26.67)
- Manila Super Saver: Manila Sightseeing plus Tagaytay Tour with Taal Volcano (From $150.00)
- Travel Back In Time At Intramuros (From $48.00)
- Hotels near Fort Santiago:
- (0.40 mi) Red Planet Manila Binondo
- (0.50 mi) Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central
- (0.69 mi) The Bayleaf Intramuros
- (0.26 mi) Hotel Sogo Edsa Caloocan
- (0.53 mi) White Knight Hotel Intramuros
- Restaurants near Fort Santiago:
- (0.48 mi) Eng Bee Tin
- (0.25 mi) Batala Bar
- (0.24 mi) Hungry Juan ERMITA
- (0.25 mi) Chowking
- (0.29 mi) Max's Restaurant
- Attractions near Fort Santiago:
- (0.14 mi) Club Intramuros Golf Course
- (0.26 mi) Intramuros
- (0.20 mi) The Manila Collectible Co.
- (0.45 mi) Manila For A Day
- (0.41 mi) Museo Filipino Intramuros