· PH

Parañaque

Parañaque, Philippines

Dive into the Thriving City of Parañaque, Philippines Parañaque City, nestled in the heart of Metro Manila, offers a vibrant blend of history, entertainment, and cultural immersion. Beyond the bustling cityscape, you'll …

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Parañaque.

Top Hotels in Parañaque

Top Flights to Parañaque

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Parañaque.

Tours

Manila Bay Sunset Viewing

Enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunset along Manila Bay, accessible from various points in Parañaque.

Shopping

SM City BF Parañaque Shopping Experience

A modern shopping mall with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options located in Parañaque.

City of Dreams Manila

An integrated resort complex in Parañaque featuring shopping, dining, and gaming facilities.

Outdoor

Elorde Sports Center

An outdoor sports center offering boxing, martial arts, and other fitness activities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Parañaque.

Currency
₱ | PHP | Philippine Peso
Population
information not available
Languages
Tagalog, Tagalog, English, Filipino

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Parañaque.

What people love

Parañaque, located in the Philippines, offers several attractions and activities that make it a desirable destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Parañaque include:

  1. Entertainment and leisure options: Parañaque is home to several entertainment complexes such as City of Dreams Manila, Okada Manila, and Solaire Resort & Casino. These establishments offer world-class entertainment, fine dining, shopping, and gaming options for visitors to enjoy.

  2. Cultural experiences: Visitors to Parañaque can explore cultural sites like the Baclaran Church, also known as the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. This church is a popular pilgrimage site and offers a glimpse into Filipino religious practices and traditions.

  3. Convenient location: Parañaque is located near Ninoy Aquino International Airport, making it a convenient stop for travelers arriving or departing from Manila. The city is also close to other popular destinations in Metro Manila, such as Makati and Taguig, allowing visitors to easily explore the surrounding areas.

  4. Shopping opportunities: Parañaque is home to several shopping malls, including SM City Sucat and SM City Bicutan, where visitors can shop for local and international brands, enjoy dining options, and experience the vibrant shopping scene in the Philippines.

  5. Beach access: Parañaque is located near the Manila Bay coastline, offering visitors the chance to relax on the beach, enjoy beautiful sunsets, and engage in water sports activities like jet skiing and parasailing.

Overall, traveling to Parañaque provides a mix of entertainment, cultural experiences, convenient location, shopping opportunities, and beach access, making it a well-rounded destination for tourists seeking a diverse and exciting travel experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Parañaque, Philippines, include:

  1. Traffic congestion: Parañaque is a highly urbanized city with busy roads and traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. Navigating through the city can be challenging and time-consuming.

  2. Air pollution: The heavy traffic in Parañaque can contribute to air pollution, which may affect individuals with respiratory issues or sensitivities.

  3. Crime rates: Like any urban area, Parañaque may have higher crime rates compared to rural areas. Travelers should take precautions to ensure their safety and belongings.

  4. Limited tourist attractions: Parañaque is primarily a residential and commercial area, so it may not offer as many tourist attractions or cultural sites compared to other cities in the Philippines.

  5. Noise and crowds: Being a densely populated city, Parañaque can be noisy and crowded, which may not be ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful environment.

It's important to note that these cons are not meant to discourage travel to Parañaque but to inform travelers so they can make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.

Parañaque, officially the City of Parañaque, is a city in the Philippines located in the National Capital Region (NCR) or Metro Manila. It has a rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial and colonial periods of the Philippines.

Early History

Parañaque was originally founded by early settlers, predominantly fisherfolk, due to its proximity to Manila Bay. The area was known for its strategic location for trade and fishing. The city was officially founded in 1572 by Spanish missionaries and became one of the earliest established communities in the Philippines during the Spanish colonization.

Spanish Colonial Era

During the Spanish period, Parañaque became an important location due to its proximity to Manila. The town was part of the province of Tondo and later Rizal. It was known for its agriculture, fishing, and salt-making industries. The Reducción policy of the Spanish also influenced the settlement patterns in Parañaque, concentrating populations around the church.

Significant historical figures during this era include Saint Andrew the Apostle, the patron saint of Parañaque, and the early Spanish missionaries who established the Parish of St. Andrew in 1580.

American and Japanese Occupation

Under American rule, Parañaque, like many other towns, saw improvements in infrastructure and education. The introduction of a democratic system of governance also took place during this period. During World War II, Parañaque experienced Japanese occupation, and significant battles were fought in the area as part of the liberation campaign by Allied forces.

Post-War and Modern Era

After the war, Parañaque underwent significant urbanization and industrialization, especially from the 1970s onwards. It became a vital part of Metro Manila, with its economy growing due to commerce, real estate, and services.

In 1998, Parañaque was officially converted into a city, marking a new chapter in its development. The city has since become a hub for business, entertainment, and residential communities.

Notable Landmarks

  1. Baclaran Church (National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help) - A significant religious site that attracts thousands of devotees, especially on Wednesdays (known as Baclaran Day).

  2. Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Although primarily located in Pasay, parts of this major international gateway to the Philippines are within Parañaque.

  3. Solaire Resort & Casino - One of the first integrated resorts in Entertainment City, a development area for casinos and entertainment complexes.

  4. Aseana City - A modern business and commercial area that is part of the city's rapid development.

Cultural Traditions

Parañaque is known for its vibrant cultural traditions, including the Sunduan Festival, which celebrates the tradition of courtship and is characterized by colorful parades and dances.

Overall, Parañaque's historical development from a fishing community to a bustling urban center reflects the broader trends in Philippine history, including colonization, war, and modernization.