Escolta Street Manila
Manila's historic Escolta Street, a vibrant hub of Art Deco architecture, vintage shops, and weekend art fairs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shops & cafes buzz with life
Escolta Street Manila
Best Time
Shops & cafes buzz with life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Manila's historic Escolta Street, a vibrant hub of Art Deco architecture, vintage shops, and weekend art fairs.
"An ideal haven for street photographers, the area is rich not only in culture but also in heritage buildings."
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through Escolta to discover its charm. Wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture the Architecture
Bring your camera! The Art Deco buildings are incredibly photogenic.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
First United Building
413 Escolta Street
A stunning Art Deco gem housing shops, cafes, and a museum. Perfect for photography and vintage finds.
HUB Make Lab
First United Building
A vibrant marketplace featuring local Filipino designers, art, and unique finds. A must-visit for creative souls.
Don Roman Santos Building
Escolta Street
An iconic neoclassical landmark showcasing Manila's grand architectural past. A photographer's dream.
Escolta Coffee Company
Burke Street (near Escolta)
A charming weekend-only cafe offering a cozy ambiance and great coffee. Ideal for a relaxing break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Weekend Vibes & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through Escolta to discover its charm. Wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture the Architecture
Bring your camera! The Art Deco buildings are incredibly photogenic.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look out for weekend art fairs and pop-up events for a lively experience.
☕ Weekend Cafe Hopping
Many unique cafes are only open on weekends. Perfect for a coffee break.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through Escolta to discover its charm. Wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture the Architecture
Bring your camera! The Art Deco buildings are incredibly photogenic.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look out for weekend art fairs and pop-up events for a lively experience.
☕ Weekend Cafe Hopping
Many unique cafes are only open on weekends. Perfect for a coffee break.
🛍️ Vintage Shopping
Hunt for unique vintage items and local crafts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Escolta Street is celebrated for its rich history, stunning Art Deco architecture, and vibrant weekend atmosphere. Visitors love the nostalgic feel, unique shops, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems. Some find the maintenance of older buildings could be improved, and weekend crowds can be substantial.
"It was built about 400 years ago and is a relatively old street with old buildings still remaining.
Most of the streets are used as banks and shops, leaving only traces of the past, and they look somewhat worn out due to lack of maintenance.
There are roughly 8 old buildings remaining, and The old buildings are lined up every few blocks along Escolta Street.
It is a historical street that goes through the modern and contemporary history of the Philippines."
Danny Hyun
"An ideal haven for street photographers, the area is rich not only in culture but also in heritage buildings that have stood for decades. Sometimes, a section of the street is closed to public vehicles to host hippie events. It is truly one of the most charming spots in Manila."
Eizen Barleta
"This street can be best appreciated with a tour guide who can tell you about the area's history. I went on a walking tour with Renacimiento Manila, and it was fun learning about the history while seeing the actual place. I will probably come back here and visit the museums as well. The street is near the LRT 1's Carriedo station, Escolata Ferry Station, Jones Bridge, and Binondo Chinatown."
ronkensh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Escolta Street is accessible via public transport. You can take the LRT Line 1 to Carriedo Station, which is a short walk away. Jeepneys and buses also ply routes near Escolta. For a scenic route, consider the ferry to the Escolta Ferry Station.
Escolta Street is generally safe, especially during the day when it's bustling with activity. However, like any urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.
Driving to Escolta can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking. Public transport is often more convenient. If you do drive, look for parking in nearby establishments or public parking areas.
Escolta Street is a public thoroughfare, so there isn't a single designated entrance. You can access it from various points, including those near Plaza Lacson and Jones Bridge.
Walking is the best way to explore Escolta Street to fully appreciate its architecture and discover hidden spots. Consider joining a guided walking tour for historical insights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Escolta Street itself is a public street and free to wander. However, some specific attractions within buildings, like museums or private studios, may have their own entrance fees.
Escolta Street is always accessible as it's a public road. However, individual shops, cafes, and museums have their own operating hours, with many unique spots being weekend-only.
While walking along Escolta Street is free, entering specific buildings like the First United Building might involve fees for certain areas or events. For example, photo shoots in some buildings can cost around PHP 2000/hour.
Yes, the First United Building houses a museum that offers insights into the area's history. It's recommended to check their specific opening days and times.
Yes, guided walking tours are available and highly recommended to learn about Escolta's rich history and architectural significance. Renacimiento Manila is one such tour provider.
📸 📸 Photography
The Art Deco architecture of buildings like the First United Building and Don Roman Santos Building are prime photography spots. Look for interesting angles and details.
Yes, you can take photos in many heritage buildings, but some may have fees for professional shoots or specific areas. The First United Building is popular for photoshoots.
Yes, HUB Make Lab offers self-photo studio experiences, and the area is popular for prenup and fashion shoots due to its vintage aesthetic.
Escolta is ideal for street photography, architectural photography, and capturing vintage aesthetics. The street often hosts events that add to the photographic opportunities.
General photography for personal use is usually fine. However, for commercial shoots or if you plan to use drones, it's best to inquire with building management or local authorities beforehand.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Escolta Coffee Company is a popular weekend-only spot. HUB Make Lab also often features vendors with coffee and snacks.
Escolta offers a mix of cafes and eateries. Being near Binondo, the world's oldest Chinatown, you're also close to numerous authentic Chinese food options.
You'll find modern cafes, local snacks, and depending on the event, food stalls offering diverse cuisines. Its proximity to Binondo means excellent Chinese food is just a short walk away.
While many unique spots are weekend-only, some establishments within the heritage buildings might have weekday hours. It's best to check individual business listings.
Absolutely! Escolta itself has charming cafes, and its location in Binondo makes it a prime destination for exploring one of the oldest Chinatowns, offering a vast array of culinary delights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a guided walking tour that can make the history more accessible and fun for younger audiences. The First United Building with its museum and the HUB Make Lab with its colorful displays can also be points of interest. Remember to bring snacks and water, and plan for breaks, as exploring can involve a lot of walking.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
The street frequently hosts art fairs and exhibitions, showcasing local talent and creativity. HUB Make Lab is a must-visit for its collection of local art and design. Consider visiting during weekend events for a more dynamic and colorful photographic experience.
🛍️ Vintage & Unique Finds Shoppers
HUB Make Lab is particularly noteworthy for its curated selection of goods from Filipino designers, offering everything from stickers and postcards to fashion accessories. Keep an eye out for pop-up markets and ukay-ukay (thrift) stores that often appear, especially on weekends.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Charm of Escolta
Walking along Escolta feels like stepping back in time. The intricate facades, grand lobbies, and historical details tell stories of the Philippines' modern and contemporary history. It's a stark contrast to the bustling modern cityscape of Manila, offering a tranquil yet captivating experience. Photographers find this street particularly appealing for its rich visual textures and historical ambiance.
While some buildings are still operational as banks or offices, many have been repurposed to house trendy cafes, independent shops, and creative spaces. This blend of old and new creates a dynamic atmosphere, making Escolta a fascinating destination for those interested in urban exploration and heritage conservation.
Weekend Wonders: Events and Pop-Ups
The street frequently hosts art fairs, festivals, and pop-up markets, such as the Fete de l'Escolta and Intramuros x Escolta Art Fair. These events showcase local artists, designers, and entrepreneurs, offering visitors a chance to discover unique crafts, enjoy live performances, and immerse themselves in the creative spirit of Manila.
These weekend gatherings not only provide entertainment but also contribute to the revitalization of Escolta, drawing crowds and fostering a sense of community. It's an excellent opportunity to experience the street's dynamic energy and support local talent.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Shops and Cafes
For coffee lovers, Escolta Coffee Company provides a charming weekend retreat with its inviting ambiance and quality brews. It's an ideal place to relax, recharge, and soak in the street's nostalgic atmosphere.
Visitors can also find vintage clothing stores, independent bookstores, and art studios scattered throughout the area, adding to Escolta's appeal as a destination for discovery. Exploring these hidden gems is part of the adventure of visiting this historic street.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit