San Agustín Church and Convent
Philippines' oldest stone church, a UNESCO site showcasing Spanish colonial history, art, and architecture within Intramuros.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
San Agustín Church and Convent
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Philippines' oldest stone church, a UNESCO site showcasing Spanish colonial history, art, and architecture within Intramuros.
"Such a beautiful church! Worth a visit!"
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the vast convent. :athletic_shoe:
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your visit with insights from knowledgeable guides. Some speak English and Spanish. :microphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Church Interior
Main Sanctuary
Marvel at the neoclassical architecture, intricate carvings, and golden pineapple motifs on the ceiling. A truly breathtaking sight.

Convent Museum & Cloisters
Convent Building
Discover religious artifacts, historical exhibits, and a serene cloister. The refectory and burial chamber are particularly striking.
Underground Ossuary
Beneath the Church
A solemn space housing the remains of prominent figures, offering a poignant connection to the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
Dress Code & Respect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the vast convent. :athletic_shoe:
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your visit with insights from knowledgeable guides. Some speak English and Spanish.
:microphone:Capture the Details
The intricate details of the architecture are stunning. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this active place of worship. :dress:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the vast convent. :athletic_shoe:
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your visit with insights from knowledgeable guides. Some speak English and Spanish.
:microphone:Capture the Details
The intricate details of the architecture are stunning. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this active place of worship. :dress:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise San Agustín Church and Convent for its stunning beauty and historical significance, calling it a 'beautiful church' and 'worth a visit.' The neoclassical architecture, intricate details, and the convent's museum are frequently highlighted as impressive features. Some reviewers noted that a bit of Spanish knowledge could enhance understanding of the tour guides.
"Such a beautiful church! Worth a visit!"
Jemy Joseph
"It’s an interesting combined edifice of a convent and a catholic church assigned to the augustinian order.
The convent was originally built in the 16th century. The church followed suited in the 17th. As such, the convent has a separate entrance from that of the church.
It’s a neoclassical architecture much like the (so many) other churches built and assigned to competing orders of nuns/priests in within Quito……
….. it must be (have been) confusing for any follower to keep up with differing codes among competing orders as only the catholic organization can concoct."
A V (globetrotter)
"The ceiling with golden pineapple along the cloister was very impressive, so was the refectory. The underground burial chamber has many impressive names, reflecting the history of this convent. The tour guide that day spoke some English but one has to know a bit Spanish to understand fully. Would have loved to check out the library but it does seem to open to the public."
L L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Agustín Church is located within Intramuros, the Walled City. You can reach Intramuros by taxi, ride-sharing apps, or public transport like the LRT-1 to Central Terminal and then a short walk or tricycle ride. Many visitors also opt for e-trikes or kalesas (horse-drawn carriages) to explore Intramuros once inside.
Parking within Intramuros can be challenging. There are designated parking areas, but they can fill up quickly. It's often easier to park outside Intramuros and walk in, or utilize the various transport options available within the Walled City.
Yes, you can take the LRT-1 to Central Terminal station. From there, it's a short walk or a quick ride on a pedicab or e-trike to enter Intramuros and reach San Agustín Church.
Once inside Intramuros, you can explore on foot, rent a bamboo bike, take an e-trike tour, or enjoy a traditional kalesa ride. Many visitors find walking or biking to be the most immersive ways to see the sights.
While the main church area is generally accessible, some parts of the convent museum and upper floors may have stairs. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility options upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically a modest entrance fee for the museum and convent portion of San Agustín Church. The church itself is free to enter for prayer, but access to the museum requires a ticket. Check their official website for the most current pricing.
The church and museum generally open in the morning and close in the late afternoon. Hours can vary, especially on Sundays and holidays. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
For general visits, booking tickets in advance is usually not required. However, if you are planning a group visit or a special event, it's recommended to contact the church administration beforehand.
Photography is generally permitted inside the church and museum, but always be respectful. Avoid using flash photography, especially during services, and be mindful of other visitors.
Yes, as it is an active place of worship, modest attire is expected. Please ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
📸 📸 Photography
The main sanctuary with its ornate ceiling is a must-capture. The cloister of the convent, the facade of the church, and the underground ossuary also offer unique photographic opportunities.
While photography is generally allowed, avoid using flash, especially inside the church during services. Be considerate of other visitors and the sacred nature of the site.
Morning light can be beautiful for the exterior, while afternoon light can create dramatic shadows inside. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have more freedom to capture your shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and religious sites like San Agustín Church to preserve the heritage and ensure safety. It's best to check with local authorities or the site management for any specific regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the church interior and cloister. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be useful for low-light conditions inside.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
San Agustín Church itself does not have restaurants. However, there are numerous dining options within Intramuros, ranging from casual eateries to more formal restaurants offering Filipino cuisine.
You can find a variety of Filipino dishes, from traditional favorites like Adobo and Sinigang to Spanish-influenced cuisine. Many restaurants offer a historical ambiance to complement your meal.
Yes, within Intramuros and its surrounding areas, you can find local eateries and street food stalls offering affordable and delicious meals. Look for carinderias for authentic Filipino flavors.
While there are no specific prohibitions mentioned, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks before entering the church and museum areas to maintain the sanctity of the place.
Popular choices include Barbara's Heritage Restaurant for cultural shows and Filipino food, Ilustrado Restaurant for fine dining, and various cafes for lighter fare.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable, keep the tour concise and focus on key highlights. The cloister offers a relatively open space where children can move around a bit more freely. Bringing a small notebook for them to sketch or write about what they see can also add an interactive element. Remember to dress modestly and ensure children are supervised at all times.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the architectural details, which reflect the influences of the time. The underground burial chamber provides a unique perspective on the historical figures who shaped the nation. Engaging with a guided tour can significantly enrich your understanding, as guides often share detailed historical anecdotes and context.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different lighting conditions; morning light can be ideal for the exterior, while afternoon light can create dramatic effects inside. Remember to be respectful of the sacred space and other visitors by avoiding intrusive photography, especially during services. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the scale of the architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial History
Exploring the convent museum offers a deeper dive into the history, showcasing religious artifacts, historical documents, and art. The underground burial chamber, or ossuary, holds the remains of notable figures, providing a solemn yet fascinating glimpse into the past. The cloister offers a tranquil space for reflection, with its serene courtyard and impressive ceiling adorned with golden pineapple motifs.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is not just a historical monument but also an active place of worship. Its enduring presence offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the rich and complex history of the Philippines. The blend of religious significance and historical architecture makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in the country's heritage.
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details
The convent itself is an architectural gem, featuring a well-preserved cloister that provides a peaceful ambiance. The museum within the convent houses a collection of religious art and artifacts, offering insights into the artistic expressions of the colonial period. The refectory, where the friars once dined, is another area that showcases the historical lifestyle and architectural style of the time.
Visitors often remark on the impressive craftsmanship evident throughout the complex. From the detailed carvings to the overall structural integrity that has withstood centuries, San Agustín Church and Convent is a testament to the skill of its builders. The combination of religious devotion and artistic expression makes it a significant cultural landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit