One of the most important regions of Manila City, Ermita is a district filled with major educational, political and health institutions. Wander the streets here and find the University of the Philippines, the General Hospital and government buildings such as the Department of Justice. The importance of Ermita within Manila is increased by the presence of major museums and parks.

Stroll around Ermita and pass elegant political building such as the waterfront U.S. Embassy and the Court of Appeals, a classically styled building fronted by four Doric columns. Don’t miss Ermita Church, a vast 20th-century structure known for its statue of Our Lady of Guidance, which was brought to the Philippines in 1521.

Visit one of Ermita’s many museums and spend the day discovering the history of the Philippines. The National Museum of the Philippines encompasses the National Art Gallery and the Museum of the Filipino People. Learn about the ethnographic diversity of the nation in exhibits dedicated to its cultural heritage.

Take your children to Museo Pambata. Interactive exhibits on the environment, Manila and the planet make learning exciting for kids. Walk through a giant reconstruction of a human body to learn about how our organs work.

Stroll through the parks of Ermita. Rizal Park spreads across 140 acres (57 hectares) and features many examples of public art. Come back here at night to watch a light and sound presentation dedicated to Filipino heroes, when the statues are lit up in a rainbow of colors. Stop by the Chinese Garden to see oriental architecture and plants.

In the north of Ermita, discover the walkways of Arroceros Forest Park, a haven of green in the heart of Manila. Escape the heat of the sun on the shady walkways that wind through the forest.

Ermita is one of the tourist hubs of Manila and public transportation runs to and from the district. Ride a bus to outside Rizal Park and explore the region on foot to see its various sights.