The 7 Largest Museum in Manila

The Philippines, with its diverse history and culture, boasts a number of world-class museums that house priceless artifacts, artworks, and historical documents. Let’s dive into the five largest museums in the Philippines:

1. National Museum of the Philippines

The National Museum Complex, located in Manila, stands as the largest museum institution in the country. It comprises several interconnected buildings, including the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Planetarium. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to Filipino and international art, anthropology, natural history, and astronomy.

2. Museo Iloilo

In the heart of Iloilo City, Museo Iloilo is a premier cultural institution. Housed in a Spanish-era building, it exhibits a collection that showcases the rich history and heritage of the Western Visayas region. From ancient artifacts to contemporary artworks, Museo Iloilo provides a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Panay Island.

3. Museo Pambata

Museo Pambata, located in Manila, is the first children’s museum in the Philippines. Designed with young visitors in mind, the museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that promote learning and creativity. Children can explore galleries dedicated to science, art, history, and culture, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

4. Bahay Tsinoy Museum

In Manila’s Chinatown district, the Bahay Tsinoy Museum showcases the history and contributions of the Chinese Filipino community to the Philippines. The museum features exhibits that trace the Chinese diaspora and their impact on various aspects of Philippine life, including culture, economy, and politics. Visitors can learn about the challenges and triumphs faced by Chinese immigrants and gain a deeper understanding of their role in shaping the country’s history.

5. Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) Museum

Located in Manila, the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) Museum documents the history of Philippine sports. The museum features exhibits on various sports, including basketball, boxing, football, and track and field. Visitors can learn about famous Filipino athletes and their achievements, as well as the country’s participation in international sporting events. The RMSC Museum is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.

The 7 Biggest Museum near Manila

National Museum of Fine Arts

• Address: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.7 (7401)
• Phone: +63 2 8527 1215
• Website:
• Opening hours:
  
  Monday: Closed

  Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Reviews:
  
  Francesca Beatrice Medel✭✭✭✭✭

  a week ago

  I enjoyed my visit here. There is no entrance fee. Big bags need to be surrendered to the baggage counter. Not a lot of people when I went on a Saturday morning. I was mesmerized by the art and it was honestly relaxing and inspiring. Great place to visit and would definitely go back. Hopefully they have some audio guided tours in thr future.

  Matthew Whitehead✭✭✭✭✭

  2 weeks ago

  Wonderful museum. The National museum definitely presents the best exhibits out of the other museums in the area.

  I particularly enjoyed the Guillermo Tolentino exhibit. His sculpturing is unmatched in Filipino art.

  The building itself feels a bit run-down on the interior side, but the quality of the exhibits makes up for that. The free entry also makes this a must-visit in Manila.

  Joseph Aaron Rizaba✭✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  Such a great museum! Free admissions, the workers are definitely approachable. For the first time I visited a museum (in my lifetime), it was really a great experience! The highlight of it was the “Spoliarium” by Juan Luna. The artifacts, preserved paintings, sculptures were also displayed and each information was posted and explained well.

  Bonnie sent you 50 USD✭✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  IT’S FREE! I went to this place alone and it was beautiful. So much pieces of arts from different periods of the Philippines. It’s good on weekdays, there are only a few people. There are elevators but I wish they added arrows or indicators on the floors on where to start. I got lost multiple times. Other than that it’s such a great experience!

  Onil Marte Navarroza✭✭✭✭✭

  a week ago

  Although the museum is on a smaller side, it managed to display a lot of significant and valuable paintings as well as contemporary arts. No entrance fee but Filipinos needed to register with an ID and no drinks and bags allowed inside the museum.

National Museum of Natural History

• Address: Teodoro F. Valencia Cir, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.7 (4113)
• Phone: +63 2 8298 1100
• Website:
• Opening hours:
  
  Monday: Closed

  Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Reviews:
  
  Paul SORET✭✭✭✭✭

  a week ago

  This museum of natural history has an incredible architecture, and it’s good to see that they’re renovating the whole area. (It needed it)

  Inside, you can find many nice exhibitions, some not so much, but it’s already great considering the Philippines is still developing.

  The galleries are well thought of, and I think it’s only a question of time before the museum becomes a little bit more interactive.

  I recommend visiting it if you’re in Manila. However, be mindful when walking around the area as there are many pickpockets. Hopefully, this changes in the near future.

  MsEarth Rullan✭✭✭✭✭

  2 weeks ago

  The Tree of Life elevator architecture at the center of the Museum is the most amazing thing to see but aside from that The elevator goes to the fifth floor and you can visit a lot of exhibits about the Philippines geology, topology, biology and anything nature related. I live the marine life ocean exhibit especially the submarine.

  Free entrance , no dress code , one ID for you and your companion to register at the entrance. Wheelchair can be borrowed for the elderly to enjoy all exhibit it’s free just leave an ID and return after use.

  Watch this: https://youtu.be/WxXXpNgPYXk?si=MpnDVSVbmSiCdIbM

  jaz daniel✭✭✭✭

  2 months ago

  I’ve been wanting to see this for so long. Grabbed the chance the last time I was in Manila and it did not disappoint. There were a lot of students roaming around perhaps as part of a group/field trip so it got a little bit busy/rowdy. But you’ll still have spaces where you can appreciate what they’ve laid out. Got to see taxidermy of some of the unique animals/species from PH. There were also samples of plants from all over the archipelago which were well preserved and were kept even after WW2. Comfort rooms were also well kept and clean. Kudos to the museum management for keeping all these for the future generations. Well worth the effort to go there. You get to learn and appreciate our history better and the best part is that you can do this for free! 🙂

  Rey Andrew Luarez✭✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  I went here on a Tuesday, as it was closed during Mondays like any other national museum in the Philippines. I love that it’s free, no entrance fee and just a valid ID is required. There’s not even a dress code so it’s very inclusive. Mind you there are 5 floors filled of artifacts and pieces of history. So be ready for a lot of walking and standing. What’s just annoying is when there are functions held in the museum. They will close off an entire section to the public. So it’s a downer if you just have that day to go visit.

  Habib✭✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  Interesting big museum about the Philippines’ natural history. Good reception, lovely place, free entry, clean toilets on every floor, and air-conditioned. A lot of things and information you can learn. It’s worth visiting for the whole family.

National Museum of Anthropology

• Address: HXPJ+3C6, P. Burgos Drive Rizal Park, Teodoro F. Valencia Cir, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.7 (1287)

Rizal Shrine at Fort Santiago

• Address: Fort Santiago, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.7 (180)

Bahay Tsinoy, Museum of Chinese in Philippine Life

• Address: 32 Anda St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.4 (222)

Malacañang Palace

• Address: Jose P Laurel Sr, San Miguel, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.6 (1118)

Museo de San Agustin (Convent Museum)

• Address: HXQF+JXP, General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.7 (140)

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Top Museum Alternatives in Manila

In addition to the traditional museums in Manila, there are also several alternative attractions that are popular among locals and tourists alike. These alternative museums offer unique and interactive experiences, making them a must-visit for anyone looking for something different in Manila.

1. The Dessert Museum

• The Dessert Museum is a popular choice for those with a sweet tooth. This interactive museum is designed like a candy wonderland, with various themed rooms that showcase different desserts.
• Visitors can enjoy free samples of desserts throughout the museum, as well as take fun and colorful photos in each room.
• The Dessert Museum is not only a visual treat but also an educational experience. Visitors can learn about the history and origins of different desserts while enjoying the sweet treats.

2. Art in Island

• Art in Island is a 3D trick art museum that offers visitors a chance to be a part of the artwork. Each exhibit features interactive paintings that create optical illusions when photographed from specific angles.
• Visitors are encouraged to interact and pose with the artwork, resulting in unique and playful photos. The museum also provides guidance on the best angles and poses to create the most impressive illusions.
• This museum is perfect for art enthusiasts, photography enthusiasts, and families looking for a fun and interactive activity.

3. Upside Down Museum

• The Upside Down Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction in Manila. This museum features rooms that are built upside down, creating a surreal and mind-bending experience.
• Visitors can explore various themed rooms, including a bedroom, kitchen, and even a classroom, all in an upside-down perspective.
• The museum provides props and instructions on how to pose to create gravity-defying photos.
• This museum is not only fun and whimsical but also offers a unique perspective on everyday objects and spaces.

These alternative museums provide a refreshing and interactive experience for visitors in Manila. Whether you have a sweet tooth, love art, or want to explore a topsy-turvy world, these attractions offer something for everyone.

Thank you for taking the time to read our article. For more in-depth reviews and comprehensive ratings on the Museum spots, please explore the recommended articles listed below.