Paco Park is the first stop for locals wanting a breath of fresh air or a spot of culture. Surprisingly, the original purpose of this attractive open-air playground was as a cemetery for victims of a devastating cholera outbreak. Many Spanish and Filipino aristocrats were buried here, before the land was reclaimed and transformed into a national park in 1966.
The original spot where Filipino’s national hero, freedom fighter Dr José Rizal was buried can still be seen. His remains have now been reinterred in the monument dedicated to his memory in Rizal Park. Among other notable former grave sites are those of three priests who were executed in 1872 for plotting against the Spanish colonial rulers.
The thick stone walls surrounding the park contain burial vaults, some of which are still occupied. The walkway along the top of the walls follows the park’s circumference and is a pleasant way to get a feel for its overall layout and size, before heading back to ground level for a closer view of the beautifully maintained lawns, flowerbeds and fountains. Take a seat in a peaceful alcove to breathe in the scented air, or wander through the network of pathways to admire the colourful plantings.
In the centre of the park you will find the Chapel of St Pancratius, which houses the mausoleum of a former colonial Spanish Governor General. This beautiful domed church hosts a service of mass every Sunday. Alternatively, head for the park on Friday evenings to enjoy a free concert or cultural event promoted by the local tourism department check the website of the National Parks Development Committee for full details of artists and performance times.
Paco Park is in the Paco district of Manila, within easy walking distance of Manila Bay and Rizal Park. The nearest public transport is the light rail station on United Nations Avenue. The park is open every day and entry is free of charge.
Paco Park
Visit Paco Park
Tours & day trips
See all 135 activitiesOpens in new tab100 Island: Pangasinan Island Hopping Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 56 activitiesOpens in new tabMakati Bar Hopping with Mari
Private & custom tours
See all 29 activitiesOpens in new tab11 days in the Philippines: Busuanga, Coron and Palawan Islands
Shopping & fashion
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tab⭐ Discover Real Manila with Tuktuk Ride ⭐
Water activities
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Manila: Taal Volcano and Lake Boat Sightseeing Tour
Popular places to visit
National Museum of the Filipino People
A visit to Manila will be greatly enriched by a trip to this informative museum of history and heritage.
Rizal Park
Discover the uplifting story of the Philippines’ national hero in this lovely park renamed in his honour.
National Museum of the Philippines
You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in National Museum of the Philippines in Manila. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.
Supreme Court of the Philippines
Supreme Court of the Philippines is just one of the places to see in Manila, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
World Health Organization
After visiting World Health Organization, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Manila. Visit the stunning cathedral and shops in this culturally rich area.
Philippine General Hospital
If Philippine General Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Manila.
Top Paco Park Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Paco Park
- Holidays and getaways similar to Paco Park
- Hotels Near Paco Park
- Hotels near other Attractions
- More Hotel Options in Paco Park
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near SM Mall of Asia
- Hotels near SM North EDSA
- Hotels near U.S. Embassy
- Hotels near Newport World Resorts
- Hotels near Manila Bay
- Hotels near Fort Bonifacio
- Hotels near Manila Ocean Park
- Hotels near City of Dreams Manila
- Hotels near Rizal Park
- Hotels near Venice Grand Canal Mall
- Hotels near SM Megamall
- Hotels near Alabang Town Center
- Hotels near Greenbelt Shopping Mall
- Hotels near St. Luke's Medical Center
- Hotels near Smart Araneta Coliseum
- Hotels near SMX Convention Center
- Hotels near Bonifacio High Street
- Hotels near TriNoma
- Hotels near SM City BF Parañaque
- Hotels near St Luke's Medical Center Global City