Baluarte de San Diego dates from the end of the 16th century, when it was constructed as part of the fortifications of the walled city of Intramuros by a Jesuit priest, Antonio Sedeno. Originally named Nuestra Senora de Guia (Our Lady of Guidance), the bastion was primarily designed to repel invasion. Its sturdy structure is testament to its purpose and has helped it to survive wars, earthquakes and the ravages of time. During the 1980s it was substantially restored and today is a popular tourist attraction.
Before you begin your exploration, stop to read the information panel at the bottom of the stone staircase leading up to the fort. This brief introduction to the history of the site will greatly enhance your visit. Walkways lead you around the bastion itself, offering close-up views of the ancient moss-covered stone structure. Although it is not possible to walk among the ruins, you can get a good impression of its size and strategic importance.
Look out for the three large rings of stone connected by crossways, which are thought to have been the base of a tower, now destroyed. There are also several original cannons bearing fascinating inscriptions with details of when and where they were made. The lookout post is a reminder of the vital part the fort played in warning the city of approaching enemies in the past. Nowadays it provides a peaceful photo-opportunity, with impressive views across the Manila skyline.
The bastion is surrounded by beautiful gardens, criss-crossed with pathways and adorned with lush plants, fountains and an attractive pergola. Not surprisingly, this is a popular place for weddings, family parties and other special occasions, so it’s worth checking before you visit to make sure the gardens are not closed for a private function. As you stroll around, pay heed to the notice warning of flying golf balls, as stray balls from the nearby golf course have been known to catch people unawares!
Baluarte de San Diego is south of Intramuros, opposite Rizal Park. Take the light rail to Central station, from where it is only a short walk. The fort and gardens are open daily for a modest admission charge.
Baluarte de San Diego
Visit Baluarte de San Diego
Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Tours & day trips
See all 131 activitiesOpens in new tab11 days in the Philippines: Busuanga, Coron and Palawan Islands
Activity duration is 11 days
Free cancellation available
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 53 activitiesOpens in new tabCultural Dance Performance & Dinner
Activity duration is 4 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Adventure & outdoor
See all 21 activitiesOpens in new tabA private Historical Intramuros & highlights in Manila
Activity duration is 8 hours
Cruises & boat tours
See all 11 activitiesOpens in new tabPhilippines - the MAGIC of 7 thousand islands.
Activity duration is 15 days
Free cancellation available
Shopping & fashion
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tabManila Night Market and Food tour experience with Mari
Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Popular places to visit
Baluarte de San Andres
Step back in time on a walking tour of this historic fortification with impressive views over Manila.
San Agustin Church
4.5/5(14 reviews)
You can find out about the history of Manila with a stop at San Agustin Church. Visit the churches and shops in this culturally rich area.
Casa Manila Museum
This lavishly appointed mansion offers an intriguing glimpse of 19th-century domestic life in Manila.
Rizal Park
4/5(35 reviews)
Discover the uplifting story of the Philippines’ national hero in this lovely park renamed in his honour.
Fort Santiago
This former military base hides some dark secrets, but is now enjoying happier times as a memorial to a national hero.
National Museum of the Philippines
5/5(1 review)
You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in National Museum of the Philippines in Manila. Visit the churches and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.
Top Baluarte de San Diego Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Baluarte de San Diego
Red Planet Manila Bay
Arquiza St. cor Alhambra St., Ermita, Manila
The Manila Hotel
One Rizal Park, Manila
City Garden Suites Manila
1158 A. Mabini St. Ermita, Manila, Manila
Manila Prince Hotel
1000 San Marcelino St, Ermita, Manila
Hotel H2O
Luneta, (Behind the Quirino Grandstand), Manila
Rizal Park Hotel
South Road Drive, T.M. Kalaw Ext., Ernita, Manila
New Coast Hotel Manila
1588 Pedro Gil corner, M.H. Del Pilar Malate, Manila
The Bayleaf Intramuros Hotel
Muralla Corner Victoria Streets, Intramuros, Manila, Manila
Casa Bocobo Hotel
Jorge Bocobo Street, Corner Kalaw Avenue, Ermita, Manila, Manila
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
- Holidays and getaways similar to Baluarte de San Diego
- Hotels Near Baluarte de San Diego
- Hotels near other Attractions
- More Hotel Options in Baluarte de San Diego
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- SM Mall of Asia
- Venice Grand Canal Mall
- Newport World Resorts
- Manila Ocean Park
- Fort Bonifacio
- City of Dreams Manila
- Rizal Park
- Alabang Town Center
- Smart Araneta Coliseum
- St. Luke's Medical Center
- SM Megamall
- SM City BF Parañaque
- St Luke's Medical Center Global City
- Manila Cathedral
- SMX Convention Center
- Hotels near SM Mall of Asia
- Hotels near Manila Bay
- Hotels near Venice Grand Canal Mall
- Hotels near SM North EDSA
- Hotels near Newport World Resorts
- Hotels near Manila Ocean Park
- Hotels near U.S. Embassy
- Hotels near Fort Bonifacio
- Hotels near City of Dreams Manila
- Hotels near Rizal Park
- Hotels near Greenbelt Shopping Mall
- Hotels near Alabang Town Center
- Hotels near Smart Araneta Coliseum
- Hotels near St. Luke's Medical Center
- Hotels near SM Megamall
- Hotels near SM City BF Parañaque
- Hotels near Bonifacio High Street
- Hotels near St Luke's Medical Center Global City
- Hotels near Robinson's Place
- Hotels near Manila Cathedral