Celebrate the countdown without spending a fortune! 🎉 Manila has plenty of free activities to make your New Year’s Eve 2025 unforgettable. Calling all history buffs and cultural adventurers—these free activities will make your walk through Manila’s streets even more rewarding. Head to Fort Santiago or Baluarte de San Andres in Intramuros for breathtaking views of the city’s fireworks. Explore Plaza Roma for an atmosphere that comes alive with lights and music. For a cultural twist, visit the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) or explore the National Museum of Natural History with a touch of Manila’s heritage. Excited to explore even more spots to welcome 2025? Check out these 12 Manila hotspots! 🏙️🚶‍♂️

This well-preserved fortress is rich in history, with spectacular views of the city and the Pasig River. On New Year’s Eve, the area is full of life with uplifting energy, and it’s a great spot to enjoy the fireworks and Manila’s heritage. Visit the Rizal Shrine and explore the fort’s gardens while you wait for the midnight fireworks show. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon to catch the sunset before the evening’s festivities. To get there, simply take a jeepney, bus, or taxi to Intramuros, and Fort Santiago is just a short walk from the main entrance.

Opening hours: Daily, from 8.00 am - 11.00 pm

Address: Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines

Plaza Roma is a site surrounded by impressive colonial architecture, a perfect place for history buffs and casual visitors alike. It’s also a lovely spot for a relaxed evening before the celebration, with nearby cafes and heritage sites like Manila Cathedral. Arrive before dusk to explore the area and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s easily accessible from Fort Santiago, so you can simply walk over, or take a quick taxi ride to the heart of Intramuros for a convenient New Year’s celebration.

Opening hours: 24 hours

Address: Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines

This market is a must-visit for those looking for affordable goods and a taste of local culture. On New Year’s Eve, the market area is filled with excitement, offering a chance to experience the hustle of Manila as you shop and savour street food. While it may not be the typical spot for fireworks, the lively atmosphere and colourful lights create a festive vibe. To get there, take a jeepney or taxi to Divisoria, and you’ll find the market packed with both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the celebrations.

Opening hours: Daily, from 5.25 am - 11.00 pm

Address: 557 M. De Santos St, San Nicolas, Manila, 1010 Metro Manila, Philippines

This historic cemetery-turned-park is surrounded by greenery and old Spanish-era architecture, making it a lovely spot to relax before the celebrations. The chill atmosphere transforms on New Year's Eve, as visitors gather to witness the night sky light up with fireworks. Arrive in the late afternoon to stroll through the park and enjoy the tranquil setting before the festivities begin. To get there, take a short taxi or jeepney ride from Manila City Hall or nearby areas.

Opening hours: 24 hours

Address: Belen, Paco, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Arroceros Forest Park, often called the "Last Lung of Manila," is an urban oasis with ample green space in the city centre. It’s a hidden gem for nature lovers with walking paths, tropical trees, and quiet surroundings, Perfect for those wanting to avoid the crowds but still see the fireworks. The best time to visit is just before sunset to enjoy the park’s beauty before the night’s celebrations. The park is located within walking distance of Manila City Hall, so you can easily take a jeepney, taxi, or a short walk to get there.

Opening hours: Daily, from 8.00 am - 5.00 pm

Address: 659 A Antonio Villegas St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

With stunning views of Manila Bay and its modernist architecture, CCP is a great spot to watch the fireworks light up the sky. The CCP complex hosts various cultural events, so you may also enjoy art exhibitions and performances before the fireworks begin. It’s best to arrive early in the evening to secure a good spot and enjoy the cultural vibe. To get there, you can take a taxi or jeepney, with many transportation options available along Roxas Boulevard.

Opening hours: Daily except Mondays, from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm

Address: CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila, Philippines

Greenbelt is a shopping and dining hub in Makati, Metro Manila. The shopping mall includes dining and entertainment options, perfect for spending time before the New Year’s Eve celebrations. You can grab a meal at one of the many restaurants, do some last-minute shopping, and enjoy the outdoor gardens before heading to one of the nearby high-rise buildings to catch the stunning fireworks display. The best time to visit is early in the evening, as the area becomes lively as the countdown to midnight begins. You can easily get there by taking a taxi or the MRT to Ayala Station, which is just a short walk away.

Opening hours: Daily, from 11.00 am to 9.00 pm

Address: Legazpi Street, Legazpi Village, Makati, Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines

The National Museum of Natural History is a fantastic spot to enjoy a cultural experience before heading for fireworks. Famous for its architecture and exhibits, it’s a perfect choice for those wanting to combine education and celebration. Explore the museum’s varied collection, from plant species to animal fossils, and learn more about the natural world. The museum is located within Rizal Park, making it easy to stroll over to nearby spots to enjoy the fireworks later. Arriving before sunset allows you to appreciate the exhibits and enjoy the park’s atmosphere as the evening sets in. Take a taxi or jeepney to the museum, which is a short distance from the Luneta area.

Opening hours: Daily except Mondays, from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm

Address: Teodoro F. Valencia Cir, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

Binondo or Manila’s Chinatown presents rich cultural heritage and exciting New Year’s Eve festivities. With its traditional shops and delicious food, Chinatown is a fantastic spot to experience the Filipino-Chinese New Year celebrations. You can wander around Ongpin Street, enjoy tasty treats like dumplings and hopia, and explore the many temples and historical sites. In the evening, watch the street life and fireworks displays in nearby areas. The best time to visit is early evening, just before the crowds gather. To get there, take a jeepney, taxi, or LRT to the Binondo area.

Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Shops & Restaurants)

Address: Ongpin Street, Binondo, Manila

For those who appreciate art and culture, the National Museum of Fine Arts is one of inspiring ways to spend your New Year’s Eve. This museum delivers collection of Filipino masterpieces, including works by the famous artists such as Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo. Visitors can explore the historical and contemporary art exhibitions before heading to nearby spots for the fireworks. The best time to visit is in the afternoon to explore the art, with a leisurely stroll through the park before evening festivities begin. You can reach the museum by taking a taxi or jeepney from Rizal Park, or by walking if you're nearby.

Opening hours: Daily except Mondays, from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm

Address: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines

Ayala Triangle Gardens is a green sanctuary in Makati, surrounded by skyscrapers and green space adding its beauty in the middle of urban life. The park’s walkways are perfect for a relaxing stroll, and it’s home to several dining options, making it an ideal spot to enjoy dinner before heading to a vantage point for the fireworks. In the evening, it’s a wonderful spot to feel the city’s energy as it builds towards midnight. To get there, take the MRT to Ayala Station and enjoy a short walk.

Opening hours: Daily, from 6.00 am - midnight

Address: Paseo De Roxas St Cor Makati Ave, Cor Ayala Ave, Makati, 1209 Metro Manila, Philippines

Baluarte de San Andres is one of the historic Spanish-era fortifications in the city. Located near Malate, it provides an ideal spot to relax, enjoy the views, and catch the celebrations happening around Manila Bay. The historic site is a quiet retreat during the day but offers stunning views of the fireworks as night falls. Best to visit in the late afternoon or early evening for a glimpse of the city before the fireworks spectacle begins. You can reach the Baluarte by taking a taxi or jeepney from nearby areas such as Malate or Ermita.

Opening hours: Daily, from 6.00 am - 6.00 pm

Address: 62 Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines

The Peninsula Manila is a luxurious 5-star hotel popular for its world-class service and elegant design. It provides spacious rooms, a selection of gourmet dining options, and excellent amenities, including a full-service spa and an outdoor pool. Its prime location places you just minutes away from popular attractions such as Greenbelt Mall, Ayala Triangle Gardens, and Ayala Museum. After enjoying the city’s sights and shopping, you can easily head to nearby points like Bonifacio Global City or the Cultural Center of the Philippines for a memorable view of the NYE fireworks.

Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, stands as a sophisticated sanctuary in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). This luxury hotel combines contemporary design with exceptional service, offering guests spacious rooms, various dining options, and top-notch facilities such as a fitness centre, spa, and infinity pool. Located near high-end shopping malls like SM Aura Premier and Bonifacio High Street, it provides access to the city’s nightlife, art galleries, and upscale restaurants. The hotel’s close location to top fireworks viewing spots, like BGC’s open spaces and Manila Baywalk, makes it perfect for NYE celebrations.

Solaire Resort Entertainment City is an elegant accommodation in Paranaque with a top casino, luxurious rooms, and fine dining. Beyond the hotel, nearby attractions include Resorts World Manila, the SM Mall of Asia complex, and the bustling Manila Bay, where you can catch some of the best views of the New Year’s Eve fireworks. Whether you’re testing your luck at the casino or enjoying a cocktail at the rooftop bar, Solaire guarantees an unforgettable experience for the festive season.

Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City is a luxurious, comfortable, and modern stay in the city. This 5-star hotel has elegant rooms with panoramic city views, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Guests can enjoy fine dining at The Cellar, relax at the outdoor pool, or enjoy rejuvenating treatments at the spa. The hotel’s location makes it a prime choice for those wanting easy access to nearby attractions such as SM Aura, Manila Bay, Bonifacio High Street, and the arts scene in BGC.

Sheraton Manila Bay is a stylish and contemporary hotel presenting a luxurious stay in the Ermita area. The hotel is known for its warm hospitality and excellent amenities, including an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and several dining options. Situated just a short walk from the iconic Rizal Park, the National Museum, and the Manila Ocean Park, Sheraton Manila Bay places you at the heart of the city’s historical and cultural attractions.

Seda Bonifacio Global City is a chic and modern accommodation with a range of contemporary amenities. Its spacious rooms and sleek design provide the perfect retreat after a day of shopping or sightseeing in BGC. The hotel includes a rooftop bar, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour restaurant, making it a great place to relax before heading out to catch the New Year’s Eve festivities. Within walking distance to BGC’s popular shopping malls, art galleries, and green spaces, guests can enjoy easy access to popular spots such as Bonifacio High Street and Serendra.

Celebrate New Year's Eve 2025 in Manila with plenty of free activities, from historic sites to lively parks. These free spots are sure enjoyable for everyone without breaking the bank. Book your flights, hotels, and attractions through Traveloka for a smooth and memorable celebration! 🎇🎉✨