Most of Manila was destroyed by the Japanese during WW2, but there is one section of the historic Spanish part of the city that remains in tact. It is known as Intramurros and is surrounded by a near complete fortified wall. All the streets are cobble stoned and the it has one of the oldest churches in the country along with a beautifully preserved historic villa full of period furniture (a mix of European and Chinese). This is one of the few tourist areas in the city. After you leave the fortifications you then come to Rizal park and most of the typical big city museums.