While many visitors like to check out its historical spots by walking around, there are various other exciting and accessible modes of transportation that make exploring Intramuros a breeze.
If you’re visiting for the first time or coming back to your favorite places, you’ll find a transportation option that works for you.
Intramuros really is different from any other places in Metro Manila , and you can explore it in different ways. Each gives you a different feel.
Hop on a horse for a slow ride or cruise around on an e-bike, depending on your budget and what’s convenient and comfortable to you and the outfit you are wearing
Whatever you choose, rest assured that exploring Intramuros is sustainable, and packed with cultural experiences.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to get around Intramuros using traditional and modern modes of transport, along with travel times and prices.
Mode of Transportation in Intramuros
1. Kalesa (Horse-drawn Carriage)
One of the coolest ways to get around Intramuros is by hopping on a kalesa—a traditional horse-drawn carriage that’s pretty much become a symbol of the area’s rich history.
It’s a laid-back, nostalgic ride that lets you soak in the sights while feeling like you’ve traveled back in time!.
Price: Kalesa rides typically range from P150 to P300 for a 30-minute ride. The price may vary depending on the route and time of day.
Popular Routes: A typical kalesa ride includes tours around the historic walls of Intramuros, visiting landmarks such as Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and Plaza Roma.
Estimated Travel Time: For example, a ride from Manila Cathedral to Fort Santiago takes about 5–10 minutes.
2. E-Bikes (Electric Bicycles)
For a more modern and eco-friendly approach, e-bikes are a fantastic option. These electric bicycles are fast, fun, and allow tourists to cover more ground in less time. They’re a popular choice for those who want to explore the sights without the physical exertion of pedaling a traditional bike.
Price: E-bike rentals are typically priced around P100 to P200 per hour, depending on the rental provider and time of day.
Popular Routes: E-bikes offer the freedom to explore the wider area of Intramuros, from Fort Santiago to San Agustin Church, or even a leisurely ride along the perimeter of the city walls.
Estimated Travel Time: Traveling from Fort Santiago to San Agustin Church by e-bike takes roughly 5 minutes.
3. Pedicabs (Rickshaws)
Pedicabs are another fun and convenient way to navigate Intramuros. These human-powered rickshaws offer a unique, intimate experience, especially for short trips. Pedicabs are ideal for those who prefer a slower pace but still want to cover more distance than walking.
Price: Pedicabs typically charge around P50 to P150 per ride, depending on the distance.
Popular Routes: Short trips, such as from the Manila Cathedral to Plaza Roma, are common routes for pedicabs.
Estimated Travel Time: A ride from Manila Cathedral to Plaza Roma typically takes about 5 minutes.
4. Bamboo Bikes
Bamboo bikes are a unique and environmentally friendly mode of transport in Intramuros. These bikes are crafted from locally sourced bamboo and offer an eco-conscious alternative for tourists who want to pedal through the district in style.
Price: Bamboo bike rentals generally cost around P250 to P350 per hour or half-day rentals.
Popular Routes: Bamboo bikes are a great choice for tourists who want to explore the perimeter of Intramuros or venture out to nearby parks and attractions.
Estimated Travel Time: A ride from Manila Cathedral to Fort Santiago by bamboo bike takes approximately 7–10 minutes.
5. Walking
For those who want to soak in the sights and sounds of Intramuros at a leisurely pace, walking is the best option. Intramuros’ compact size makes it a perfect area to explore on foot, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details of its architecture and historical landmarks.
Price: Free! Walking is the most budget-friendly way to explore Intramuros, though you may want to join a guided walking tour for a richer experience.
Popular Routes: Walking allows you to enjoy the streets of Intramuros at your own pace, with landmarks like San Agustin Church, Fort Santiago, and Manila Cathedral just a few steps away.
Estimated Travel Time: Walking from Manila Cathedral to Fort Santiago typically takes 10–15 minutes.
Practical Tips for Tourists when getting around Intramuros
- Weather Considerations: Manila’s tropical climate means it can get quite hot and humid, especially during midday. Make sure to wear comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon are ideal times to visit Intramuros, as it’s cooler and less crowded.
- Group vs. Solo Travel: If you’re traveling solo, e-bikes and walking are great options for flexibility. However, kalesa rides are better suited for couples or small groups.
- Navigating the Streets: Intramuros can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, so be mindful of traffic when using motorized transport like e-bikes or pedicabs.
Example Itineraries for Tourists
Short Itinerary:
- Start: Rent an e-bike at Fort Santiago
- Visit: Ride to San Agustin Church
- End: Walk around the Plaza Roma
Estimated Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours
Full-Day Itinerary:
- Start: Kalesa ride around the walls of Intramuros
- Visit: Walk to Manila Cathedral, explore Fort Santiago
- Rent: Bamboo bikes to explore the scenic routes around the district
- End: Pedicab ride around Plaza Roma
Estimated Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Intramuros offers a wealth of history, culture, and charm, and with so many different modes of transportation, you can tailor your visit to suit your preferences. Whether you choose to ride a kalesa for a romantic journey through time or hop on an e-bike for a fast and eco-friendly exploration, each option provides a unique experience.
With walking tours and bike rentals readily available, Intramuros is one of the easiest and most fun places to explore in Manila. So, pack your sunscreen, put on your comfortable shoes, and start planning your adventure through the Walled City!
Conclusion
There are countless ways to get around Intramuros, and in my personal experience, the best ways to get around Intramuros is through a kalesa and a bamboo bike.
Some visitors like the pedicab surprisingly, but it really depends on you.
No matter how you choose to get around, Intramuros is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Whether it’s good or bad LOL!
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