It may not be as tall as London's Big Ben, which stands at 316 feet, but the Manila Clock Tower, at 100 feet tall, is nothing to look down on either, literally and figuratively.

That's because our own clock tower boasts one of the best views in Metro Manila and its own Manila Clock Tower Museum is a must-visit in its own right.

Designed by architect Antonio Toledo and completed in the 1930s, the tower's top two floors offer a 360-degree view of the capital, including the centuries-old Intramuros, the Andres Bonifacio Shrine and nearby parks, as well as the equally iconic structures of the Metropolitan Theater and Manila Post Office. Visitors can also see here the four sides of the clock tower mechanism in operation.

Several exhibits are found from the first floor to the fourth floor, including an immersive and multi-sensory exhibit about the Battle of Manila during World War II. Around the stairs are images of old Manila and of the old tower before it was restored.

There is also a coffee shop where visitors can rest and take their snack during their break from their visit.

In the afternoon, step outside and the surrounding parks and colorful lighting greet you, including the highlight at night when the whole of the tower lights up.

Operating hours: The Manila Clock Tower is free and open to the public but people have to make online reservations due to the nature of the building and precautions necessary for visitor health reasons. People can also reserve their preferred days from its Facebook page. It is open to the public from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.