philippines tour places

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in the Philippines

Written by Lana Law , Michael Law , and Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 21, 2024

The Philippines is a tropical paradise in the Pacific Ocean made up of more than 7,000 islands that offer a natural playground for your inner explorer. Collectively, its landscapes feature an array of natural wonders, from volcanoes and rice terraces to underwater rivers and limestone caves, along with beautiful beaches .

Individually, the islands each offer something unique, whether you are looking for the best place to dive and snorkel or prefer to take in the historical sights in cities like Manila or Vigan .

Since the country is so spread out, a trip to the Philippines requires careful planning and some internal flights. Some destinations, like the Chocolate Hills in Bohol or the Hanging Coffins in Sagada, are remote, but getting there is well worth the effort. It's also important to consider the best time of year to visit the Philippines. The rainy season runs from June to November.

Plan your travels with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in the Philippines.

1. White Beach, Boracay

2. relax on the stunning beaches of palawan, 3. chocolate hills, bohol, 4. underground river tour, puerto princesa, 5. hanging coffins, sagada, 6. diving in coron, 7. batad rice terraces, banaue, 8. mayon volcano, albay, 9. island hopping, 10. manila historical sightseeing tour, 11. ride in a jeepney, 12. historic tour of corregidor island, 13. bird-watching, 14. pagsanjan falls, laguna, 15. tour colonial vigan, 16. taal volcano, talisay, 17. jungle training, subic bay, 18. hanging bridge, sevilla, 19. sugba lagoon, siargao, best time to visit the philippines.

There is no shortage of pristine beaches in the Philippines, but if you are looking for a more active beach scene, one of the best places to visit is White Beach in Boracay . This is the most populous beach on the island but where you will find ample opportunities for boating and other water sports. It's also one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia .

Plenty of chairs and hammocks are beneath the palm trees, so you can relax and enjoy the pure white sand. You can even book a beachside massage. Snorkeling is a popular activity at White Beach, but if you do not want to put in so much work, take a banana boat ride or book a trip on a glass-bottom boat.

At the northern tip of the Island of Palawan are some of the most scenic beaches in the Philippines, unlike anything else you will find in the country. This is not just stunning soft sand and warm calm waters like you find in other areas of the Philippines. Add to this, limestone cliffs jutting up from the ocean, secrete coves that you can paddle into, and beautiful offshore islands. Some of the islands are also home to boutique luxury resorts.

The main town here is El Nido . A variety of boat trips offer day tours from El Nido to secluded beaches, sandbars, and bays. This is the most popular activity here and something that almost everyone signs up for when visiting. But you do not need to even leave El Nido, you can find this beautiful setting from the beaches around town.

Northern Palawan is not overly developed. It has enough infrastructure to make things comfortable but it's not known for large resorts. If you are looking for luxury, it will be at small resorts and lodges. If you are looking for budget accommodation, you can find this as well in town but off the beach.

Palawan appeals to everyone from adventurous families to backpackers. A small airport in El Nido offers direct flights to Manila. The city of Puerto Princesa is also found on the island of Palawan, about a 5-hour drive from El Nido. If you want to see the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, you may want to fly into El Nido and out of Puerto Princesa or vice versa.

The geological wonder on the island of Bohol known as the Chocolate Hills is a unique natural phenomenon. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a protected area that features more than 1,200 small mountains that emerged above the ground over several centuries.

The area was once under the ocean, and these unique hills expand in every direction. They are green during much of the year, but during the dry season, they turn to a chocolate-brown color, thus the name, chocolate hills.

A convenient path leads to the top of a lookout area, which provides the best view. Be sure to observe the many delicate flowers along the walkway that are unique to this area.

Taking a river tour of the Underground River near Puerto Princesa is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Philippines. The underground river on Palawan Island is inside the Subterranean River National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The boat tours take you to experience the majestic five-mile river that runs below ground. The trip takes you through an intricate cave system surrounded by vertical limestone cliffs. You can see ancient stalagmite and stalactite formations, as well as bats flying overhead, as the coolness of the cave balances the tropical heat outside.

As you float through the dark caves on emerald water, your guide will identify points of interest and tropical wildlife that live along the river, which flows into the South China Sea .

You can take a tour from Puerto Princesa, which is a long day due to the drive time involved. A better alternative is to stay in Sabang (which is about an hour and a half from Puerto Princesa) and hop on a tour boat right from there. This way you can see the cave in a morning or an afternoon. Sabang also has a beautiful beach and decent accommodation and is a nice place to spend a day or two whether or not you are visiting the cave.

The hanging coffins in Sagada, located in the northern Cordillera Mountains , is one of the most unusual sights in the Philippines. The hanging coffins, some centuries old, are suspended from the cliffs of the Echo Valley . These ceremonial burials were reserved for the wealthy tribesmen.

Getting to the mountainous region requires some travel time. Although transportation to this area is now easier than it used to be, it still requires some physical endurance to hike the steep and narrow paths to the secluded coffins.

You will want sturdy shoes, and you may want to train before your trip to adapt more quickly to the high altitude. The reward is a sight you will never forget and well-earned bragging rights.

Coron Island in the Philippines, as well as other nearby islands, are popular diving locations in the country due to the abundance of coral reefs and shipwrecks.

The sunken ships to explore on Sangat Island in Coron are some of the best diving sites in the world. The wrecks are at varied depths that are suitable for both deep-water scuba divers and shallow-water snorkeling.

The shipwrecks, many from WWII , have become habitats for diverse fish species. The clear water makes for easy viewing of the shipwrecks and underwater wildlife. Many of the shipwrecks are from an attack on the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1944. Deep divers will want to view the Akitsushima Maru warship, Irako Maru , and the Kyokuzan Maru .

The Coral Garden is a specific site with particularly accessible coral and fish species. Snorkeling and diving tours to the Coral Garden often encompass stops at nearby shipwrecks.

If you are unsure where to snorkel to see some of the best coral, taking an organized trip to the Coral Garden is an easy introduction to the sport. Guides are able to point out sea turtles and fish and offer information about what kinds of coral you are viewing underwater.

Viewing the Batad rice terraces at sunrise in Banaue is an unforgettable experience. This is especially recommended for landscape photographers who want to capture compelling images of Philippine agriculture. Some of these terraces are more than 2,000 years old and represent a common form of farming in the country.

The stacked terraces are carved by hand into the mountainside, creating vertical farming fields in a region void of flat land. Workers commonly plant rice and vegetables. You can walk some roads above the terraces that give you the best view by looking below. Early morning and dusk provide the best light to illuminate the electric green color of the fields.

The Mayon Volcano in the Albay province on Luzon Island is a must-see in the Philippines. It is an active stratovolcano with an elevation of more than 2,400 meters. The Mayon volcano has a perfect cone peak.

Most visitors will want to enjoy the volcano by viewing it from the ground. Nature trails in the national park grounds surround the volcano, where you can also see wildlife like parakeets and other birds.

Extreme hikers can apply for a permit to climb the volcano, but it is a difficult trek through forest, and dangerous gases are emitted near the peak, so caution is advised. The ideal time to visit is March through May, outside of the rainy season. You can take an organized trip from Manila to get here.

If you just cannot decide what to do or where to go in the Philippines, an island-hopping tour might offer just the right mix. You still have to whittle down choices, but an organized island-hopping tour allows you to see a collection of islands.

You can sample snorkeling, swimming, sightseeing, and dining on local food in multiple locations and eliminate the hassle of trying to plan it on your own. Many of the island hopping tours span several days. One of the most popular island-hopping tours is to the Caramoan Islands , which were made famous after being featured on the hit TV show Survivor.

Manila is an exciting and vibrant city that is a thriving metropolis surrounded by centuries-old churches and colonial history. It is easy to walk around Manila on your own, or take a guided sightseeing tour of the oldest district, the Intramuros or walled city, where you'll find some of the most significant tourist attractions and important landmarks and monuments.

This will give you a better appreciation for Manila. You can see the famous San Agustin Church and monuments at Rizal Park and Fort Santiago , each bearing a significant influence on Manila that is best shared by a guide. Some tours are offered by coach, and others are available as walking or biking tours around the city.

After your tour, stop by one of the local restaurants for lunch and enjoy modern-day Manila as you watch the colorful jeepneys flying by on the streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Manila

Taking a ride in a jeepney is a must-experience in the Philippines, even if you have no specific destination in mind. The jeepney is one of the main forms of transportation in the Philippines . They are vehicles originally made from post-World War II U.S. army jeeps that have been transformed into colorful and fun forms of transportation.

The jeepney has become synonymous with the Philippines; a national symbol of sorts. It is unique to the country. The decorations and colorful decor on the jeepneys are as chaotic as the traffic on the city streets in places like Manila. Taking a ride in one is a thrill, with the random stops to let people on and off and being truly immersed in the local culture as residents go about their daily lives. Try taking a jeepney to one of the tourist sites you plan to visit or to your dinner spot in the evening. It might just be the cheapest entertainment you find in the country, and it will definitely be one of the most memorable experiences.

A tour of Corregidor Island is a must-see for history buffs visiting the Philippines. The island played a significant role in World War II and was the location of several battles. The relics left behind from these battles include secret tunnels and bunkers used as hideouts during the war, as well as weapons, barracks, and historical artifacts.

Be sure to take some time at the Pacific War Memorial on-site. Regular guided tours leave from Manila to a ferry that takes you to the island. This requires a full day to visit, but it is well worth the time if you have an interest in WWII history.

The stunning natural landscapes and ecosystems throughout the Philippines lend themselves to diverse habitats for birds, meaning the bird-watching opportunities are plentiful. Even if you are not an avid birder, it is worth taking a pair of binoculars on your trip to get a glimpse of some unique species that you likely will not encounter in other parts of the world.

With more than 7,000 islands and 94 national parks in the Philippines, it can be tough to narrow down where to start to look for some of the 600 species of birds that either live in or migrate through the country, like the brown-throated sunbird or the Palawan peacock-pheasant.

Some of the best places to start are the locations that cater to bird-watching like La Mesa Eco Park , which is popular among avid birders looking for barred rails, little egrets, osprey, and migratory birds that regularly rest in the park. The Negros and Panay Islands provided habitat for the endangered Walden's hornbill.

In the Luzon region, the Angat Watershed Reserve is a good spot to find many species along the trails and in the nearby Angat Rainforest and Ecological Park . Another spot where you see many migratory birds is in the Candaba Wetlands in Pampanga for species like purple herons.

The only thing more exciting than admiring one of the most notable waterfalls in the Philippines is traversing it in a dugout canoe. The Pagsanjan Falls waterfall is part of the Pagsanjan Gorge National Park .

Your trip along the falls will take you upstream through tropical landscapes, where you will be able to swim in natural pools and pass through caves. Once you get used to the leisurely ride, prepare for the main event, as you head downstream at a fast pace through large rocks and churning water for what the locals call "shooting the rapids." It is an exhilarating outdoor adventure, and you can take day trips from Manila.

A fun place to visit with a terrific pre-colonial flair is the streets of Calle Crisologo of Vigan City, located in the Ilocos province. It stands out from other cities in the Philippines. The brick streets and traditional horse and carriage mode of transportation are reminiscent of the 16th-century trading hub that used to be for foreign traders coming through the area.

This is a fun city to spend a day or two on your trip. You can take an organized tour to learn about the city's history or stroll on your own to the small vendor shops and eateries along the main street. This is also a prime spot to find souvenirs, from bags to baskets and pottery, for a reasonable price.

Be advised that if you ask your calesa driver to take you to the best shopping area in the city, he or she might instead drop you off at a friend's shop in order to earn a kickback of your purchases. It's better to take a ride, then explore the city street shops on your own.

The Taal Volcano on the island of Luzon is one of the most active in the country. It is in the center of Taal Lake, so just getting to the crater is part of the adventure. The city of Talisay , where you will catch a boat to get to the crater, is less than an hour's drive from Manila. You will catch a boat to go across Taal Lake then hike to the rim of the crater.

There are a number of trails around the volcano. The Spanish Trail goes to the top of the volcano and has some of the most impressive views. The less popular Kenney Trail is a good option if you want to avoid potential crowds or if you think you might want to rest along the way.

This trail has quite a few shade trees. Due to the logistics involved in visiting Taal Volcano, you might want to consider an organized day tour.

When the United States Navy had an active base on Subic Bay, their Navy Seals received training by indigenous Aetas on how to survive the jungle. Now, you can visit the former base on Subic Bay and even take Jungle Environmental Survival Training from the natives.

You can take a tour of the former Subic Bay Naval Base and tour the converted complex, which has a number of activities on-site. Subic Bay is located on the island of Luzon, so it is an easy day trip from Manila, or you can stay in the region.

On the island of Bohol, a bridge made entirely of bamboo swings almost 40 meters in the air over the Loboc River . For those with a sense of adventure, or a desire to conquer a fear of heights, the hanging bridge walk will be a vacation experience you will never forget. The hanging bridge is in the town of Sevilla. It is easy to combine this experience with other excursions on Bohol Island.

Over the years, the bridge, which was originally made with woven bamboo, has received some safety reinforcements due to its popularity with tourists. Not to worry though, it still creeks and swings and gives you butterflies in your stomach as you look down at the rushing river below you.

There are so many iconic lagoons in the Philippines that have movie-set quality tranquil blue waters below a towering cliffside, but one of the most spectacular is Sugba Lagoon on the island of Siargao. The lagoon is perfect for just basking in the natural, peaceful surroundings, but there are plenty of activities, too, if you want a more adventurous day.

You can book a day-trip package to the Sugba Lagoon from a nearby city like Del Carmen or General Luna, but you can also go on your own. You must take a boat to the lagoon. If you have the nerves and are not afraid of heights, you can try cliff jumping from the designated area above the lagoon. You can also rent a paddleboard or kayak, and take a more peaceful tour of the lagoon at your own pace.

The best time to go to the Philippines is during the dry season , which is between November and April , when you will have optimal weather conditions and the best opportunities for outdoor experiences throughout the country. This time of year has the least amount of rainfall, which means more favorable beach days , fewer chances of weather-impacted flight delays, and easier accessibility to remote regions and smaller islands.

The dry season is also the high tourist season and the most popular time to visit so you will have increased tourist activity and higher prices for airfare and lodging. During this popular time, the months of December, January and February are the coolest months to visit before the sweltering Asian heat kicks in starting in March. Keep in mind that high temperatures and humidity surge in April and May.

32 Things to do in The Philippines + Tourist Spots

After visiting 69 of 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve had countless beautiful experiences in this archipelagic country of over 7,600 islands. If you’re looking for places to add to your Philippines Itinerary, then this guide is for you!

Let’s start with a list of top destinations that are both easy to reach and exceptionally beautiful. If you’re traveling to the Philippines for the first time, these are the highlights you don’t want to miss. You fit  all these places into a two-week itinerary.

Next, I’m going to share the stand-outs. They may not be as easy to get to, but I highly recommend visiting if you’re adventurous and want to see places that truly stand out.

Lastly, I’ve included a long list of popular and interesting destinations in the Philippines so you can enjoy a virtual tour of what my home country has to offer. Consider visiting if you have an extended trip planned in the Philippines or if you’re a fellow Pinoy looking for places to go on your next holiday.”

The Philippines Tourist Spots

What to do & where to go in The Philippines? I got you! Here are places to visit, interesting attractions & things to do in The Philippines for your bucketlist/itinerary.

5. Boracay Island & Aklan

6. balabac islands, 7. batanes islands, 9. banaue, ifugao, 14. puerto princesa, 15. iloilo & guimaras, 16. clark & pampanga, 18. cagayan de oro & beyond, 19. dumaguete & negros oriental, 20. legazpi, bicol & mayon volcano, 21. tacloban, leyte, 22. baguio & benguet, 23. subic bay, 24. tagaytay & taal volcano, 25. lake sebu, 26. laoag & ilocos norte, 27. siquijor, 28. port barton & san vicente, 29. caramoan, 30. calaguas, 31. biri islands, samar, 32. enchanted river & surigao del sur.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

View more travel tips in:   Singapore ,  ALL Destinations .

Find this guide helpful? Share the love & follow Detourista for travel inspo on:  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Tiktok ,  Pinterest .

Top Spots For First-Timers

Cloud 9 Boardwalk sunset in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

Siargao made its first claim to fame as the Philippines’ surfing capital, and recently as the “Best Island in the World” (awarded by Condé Nast readers for 2018).This paradise has been on my favorites list ever since my first trip to the island a decade ago. What impressed me the most were the enchanting lagoons of Sohoton Cove, a natural wonder that’s well worth the 2-hour detour from the Cloud 9 surfing beach. The main island is filled with pristine natural spots as well, including white sand beaches, stunning islets, vast coconut forests, cool tidal pools & more.If you want to enjoy a laidback island lifestyle, Siargao is one of the best places that tourists can go to. You’ll find a mix of “foreign” and “local” here. It is remote yet accessible, and not too crowded despite the coming of new developments in recent years.

Location  — Surigao del Norte province, Caraga Region, Northeast Mindanao. Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Located along the eastern coast of the Philippines (facing the Pacific Ocean), Siargao is best reached by air. Fly direct to Sayak Airport (IAO) in Siargao Island from Manila, Cebu, or Clark. Flight duration is 2 hours from Manila or 1 hour from Cebu. From the airport, the land trip to Cloud 9 beach, the main tourist area, takes around 45 minutes. You can also reach Siargao by taking a flight to Surigao Airport (SUG), found in mainland Mindanao. Then, hop on a 1.5-hour fastcraft ferry to Dapa Port in Siargao Island.

Siargao Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Siargao Surfing Lessons

Siargao Island Hopping (Daily) – Daku Island, Guyam Island, & Naked Island Day Tour

Sohoton Cove & Siargao Island Hopping Day Trip

Marcos at Magpupungko Rock Formation in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Magpupungko Rock Formation, Siargao Island

Cloud 9 surfing in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 surfing, Siargao Island

Cloud 9 Beach in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 beach, Siargao Island

Sohoton Lagoons in Bucas Grade Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Sohoton Lagoons near Siargao Island

Cloud 9 Boardwalk surfers in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 Boardwalk, Siargao Island

See more : Siargao travel tips

Matinloc Island in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

You came to the country to see spectacular beaches and island views. El Nido in Palawan province will not disappoint. In terms of spectacular “over-the-water” sea views, El Nido is my favorite in the Philippines. Imagine hidden lagoons, uninhabited white sand beaches, and massive forest-covered limestone mountains rising out of pristine tropical waters. The “SEAnery” here rivals popular destinations in Asia like Phi Phi/Krabi Islands (Thailand) and Ha Long Bay (Vietnam).The experience of spending a whole day out on the islands is nothing short of incredible. The area of Bacuit Bay is spread over a large area, so spend at least two full days for the island hopping tours (Tour A & Tour C are the best).

Location  — Northern Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Most travelers arrive in El Nido on a 1.5-hour flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS), followed by a 5 to 6-hour shuttle ride to El Nido town proper. If you want to skip the long land journey, fly directly to El Nido from Manila (1 hour), Cebu or Boracay-Caticlan. This is the fastest but more expensive way.

El Nido Travel Essentials

El Nido Tour A – Lagoons and Beaches Island Hopping

El Nido Tour C – Hidden Beaches and Shrines Island Hopping

Puerto Princesa – El Nido Shuttle Transfers

Secret Lagoon Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Secret Lagoon Beach in El Nido, Palawan

Calitang Beach, at Nacpan-Calitang Twin Beaches, in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Calitang Beach, El Nido

Overlooking Bacuit Bay Islands of El Nido from Taraw Peak, in Palawan, Philippines Overlooking El Nido from Taraw Peak

Umbrella Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Umbrella Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido

See more : El Nido travel tips

Pro-tip:  To make your trip planning easier, I’ve added links to the pin locations on Google Maps. Use the ‘save’ feature on the app to see all your saved locations on one map, visualize your itinerary, and know the best areas to stay near the places you want to go.

Philippines Travel Essentials

Before we go with the rest of the list, here are travel essentials you might need for a hassle-free trip. Click below to see discounts & read traveler reviews.

Where to stay in The Philippines:

Book here Compare rates

Recommended The Philippines Hotels:

Travel tip : Use promo code “ KLOOKDETOURISTA ” to grab up to 5% OFF your next booking on the Klook app. Tap below to book & compare rates with these trusted & legit booking apps.

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Island Hopping in Boracay

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

Cebu Ocean Park Ticket

Tours + discounts Flights Airport transfers WIFI Internet/Data SIM

Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan, Philippines. Photo by David Köhler .

In contrast to El Nido’s amazing “over water” views, go to Coron for spectacular underwater views. Here, you can see colorful coral gardens, pristine waters, lots of marine life, and even sunken WWII Japanese shipwrecks. Don’t get me wrong, Coron can hold its own when it comes to scenic views over the water as well. This paradise is home to hidden emerald/blue lagoons surrounded by limestone cliffs. There’s no shortage of incredibly beautiful fine white sand beaches in Coron either.

How to go —  Coron Airport is located on the north side of Busuanga Island. Travel time by plane is around 1 hour from Manila. For adventurous travelers who want to maximize their trip in Palawan, you can travel by ferry between Coron and El Nido (mainland Palawan). Travel time is around 4 hours by fastcraft (high-speed ferry).

Coron Travel Essentials

Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour

Coron-Busuanga Airport Shuttle – Shared and Private Transfers

Coron Ultimate Tour

See more : Coron travel tips

Marcos at Osmeña Peak in Dalaguete, Cebu

Cebu is the country’s #1 most visited tourist destination, and for good reason. It is unrivaled in offering the widest range of things to do and attractions. Cebu is like the “Jack of all trades” among tourist spots in the Philippines.You can enjoy scenic natural sites (waterfalls, beaches, mountain views etc.), have exciting wildlife encounters, join a colonial heritage tour, shop at some of the World’s largest malls, or indulge yourself in local food including the prized Cebu Lechon! You can do all of these easily while staying at a luxury resort in Mactan Island, centrally located hotel/airbnb in the city, or a peaceful beachfront resort in the countryside. Your choice!If that’s not enough, you can easily hop to nearby islands like Bohol, Negros (Dumaguete) or other major cities. Take full advantage of Cebu’s strategic location in Central Philippines and well-connected flight/ferry network.

Location  — Central Visayas (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Cebu-Mactan International Airport in Mactan Island serves direct flights from all major cities in the Philippines as well as international flights from Asia and North America. Flight duration is 1h30m from Manila, 3h 40m from Singapore and 2h50m from Hong Kong. From the airport, the ride to Cebu City center usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour (or more, depending on traffic conditions).

Cebu Travel Essentials

Cebu-Tagbilaran, Bohol OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Cebu Airport Private Transfers – for Cebu City, Mactan & more

Bohol Day Tour from Cebu

Shangri-la Mactan Resort in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines Shangri-la Mactan Resort, Cebu

The Heritage of Cebu Monument in Cebu City, Philippines The Heritage of Cebu Monument

Canyoneering near Kawasan Falls, Badian, Cebu, Philippines Kawasan-Badian Canyoneering in Cebu

Santiago Bay Beach in Camotes Islands, Cebu, Philippines Camotes Islands, Cebu, Philippines

Sirao Flower Garden in Cebu City, Philippines Sirao Flower Garden, Cebu City

See more : Cebu travel tips

Marcos at White Beach, in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines

Boracay is a vacationer’s paradise. Taking center stage is 4-kilometer White Beach, prized for its incredibly inviting blue waters, fine white sand, and perfect sunsets. This island is the place to go if you want to take it easy and you’re looking forward to enjoying a tropical resort experience. As you can expect, Boracay caters to a more upscale crowd, but don’t fret, there are many budget-friendly options available.Boracay is small but packs a lot of attractions. Here you can find excellent dining, a wide variety of places to stay, souvenir shopping, and lots of fun water activities, and some nightlife all in one sandy stretch.Boracay’s White Beach is a class of its own when it comes to how fine and white the sand is. From my extensive travels in the country, there’s only one lengthy beach that has sand whiter and finer than White Beach. You can find it in the group of islands featured next on this list.

Location  — Aklan province, Western Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at either Boracay-Caticlan Airport (MPH) or Kalibo International Airport (KLO). From Caticlan, the ferry to Boracay only takes less than 20 minutes. Most travelers transit via Kalibo because the airport serves more airlines/flights/destinations and airfares are usually lower. The land trip from Kalibo to Caticlan tales around 1 hour.

Boracay Travel Essentials

Sunset Paraw Sailing in Boracay

Caticlan Airport-Boracay Hotel Shared Transfers – Shuttle+Ferry Ticket

Sunset at White Beach, in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Sunset view from Boracay Island

White Beach in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines White Beach, Boracay

View from Mt. Luho facing White Beach, in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Mt. Luho view

Kite surfing at Bulabog Beach, in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Boracay kite surfing

Ati-atihan Festival warriors in Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines Kalibo Ati-atihan Festival in Aklan

See more : Boracay Island & Aklan travel tips

The Standouts

These places take more time to visit but are well worth the journey if you’re up for an adventure.

Onuk Island – Roughton Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines

If you’re looking for the best beaches & most vibrant waters in the Philippines, look nowhere else. Balabac is worth a spot at the VERY TOP of your bucketlist.Balabac is the southernmost group of islands in Palawan. It is so far south that Sabah, in East Malaysia is nearer to Balabac than Puerto Princesa, the provincial capital of Palawan.The main draw here are 31 gorgeous islands still vastly undiscovered by tourist crowds. These islands are surrounded by pristine, crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Yes, the sandy shores of many beaches here are a blinding white to off-white, many even have a blushed pink hue! The best spots you shouldn’t miss in Balabac are (1) Onuk Island & its crystal blue waters sprawling as far as the eye can see; (2) Bugsuk Island, home to the most powdery, whitest sand beach in the Philippines; and (3) the pink sand beach at Camiaran Island.

Location  — Southern Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines)

How to go —  The most convenient jump-off point to the Balabac Islands is Buliluyan Port, located at the southernmost tip of mainland Palawan. From Puerto Princesa Airport (the nearest commercial airport), the land trip to Buliluyan Port takes around 5-6 hours. For a hassle-free trip, arrange your Balabac tour well ahead (before your trip) with a local tour operator. See the list and detailed travel tips at the  Balabac Travel Guide .

Punta Sebaring Beach in Bugsuk Island, Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Punta Sebaring Beach, Bugsuk Island, Balabac

Camiaran “Pink” Island, in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Camiaran “Pink” Island, Balabac

Nasubata Reef – Pulau Bato in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Nasubata Reef – Pulau Bato

Sicsican Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Sicsican Island

Canabungan Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Canabungan Island

Balabac is remote and not easy to reach, which is why I don’t readily recommend the place to first-timers. You must really want to visit this place. It takes time to visit and you’ll have to let go of touristic conveniences.

Batanes, Philippines. Photo by Rexy Quieta .

Previously, many readers have asked me why I did not include Batanes as one of the best places to go in the Philippines. The answer is simple: I haven’t been there yet. It’s still on my bucketlist! But due to popular demand, I am including Batanes now. So, comment below if you have a place in mind that you think should be included! I might have to add it to my bucketlist too.Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines. These remote islands are shaped by volcanic forces and strong typhoons. The natural landscape of Batanes is distinct from other parts of the Philippines. Here, you’ll find vibrant green rolling hills, grazing cows, steep seaside cliffs, sparkling clear blue waters, traditional stone houses, and iconic lighthouses.Travelers often describe its Batanes’ beauty as wild, overwhelming, and incredibly scenic. Looking at pictures and vlogs, I can see why it’s a popular choice among adventure seekers.

Location  — Cagayan Valley region (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Basco Airport, located on Batan, the main island of Batanes. Travel time by plane is 2 hours from Manila or 1h40m from Clark. Airlines that fly to Batanes include Philippine Airlines and Skyjet. Flights to Batanes are a lot more expensive compared to other destinations in the Philippines. Expect regular roundtrip fares to cost upwards of P10,000.

Batanes Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

Batanes-Basco Airport Shuttle – BSO Private Transfers

3 Day North Batan, South Batan, and Sabtang Island Tour

2 Day North Batan and South Batan Tour

Pongas Falls in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

The Philippines isn’t just all about postcard-perfect beaches. It has cool highland destinations too! If you want to be close to nature and the Philippines’ mountain culture, venture north of Manila and visit Sagada. You can find this small town high in the mist-covered Cordillera (mountain range) of Northern Luzon.Surrounded by spectacular mountain views, Sagada is most-known for the bizarre hanging coffins, a burial tradition that has survived for over 2,000 years. When in town, don’t miss the cave connection tour (Sumaging-Lumiang Cave), sunrise view from above a sea of clouds at Kiltepan Peak, the local coffee (best in PH) & hike to the many waterfalls in the area including Bomod-ok Falls and Pongas Falls.

Location  — Sagada, Mountain Province, Cordillera region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The bus trip to Sagada from Manila takes around 12 hours. Buses usually depart at 9pm (onwards) from Cubao, Quezon City. You can also catch a bus to Sagada from Baguio. Travel time from Baguio to Sagada is 5-6 hours by bus.

Sagada Travel Essentials

Sumaguing Cave, in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Marcos at Sumaguing Cave, Sagada

Hanging coffins at Echo Valley, Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Sagada hanging coffins, Mountain Province

Kapay-aw Rice Terraces in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Kapay-aw Rice Terraces, Sagada

Bomod-ok Falls and Aguinid Rice Terraces, in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines 041 Bomod-ok Falls and Aguinid Rice Terraces, in Sagada-150211-082531

See more : Sagada travel tips

Banaue Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines

Banaue is home to the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, another must-see attraction in the Cordillera region. Hand-carved by the Ifugao people some 2,000 years ago, these extraordinary rice paddies are terraced like staircases for giants and follows the contours of entire mountainsides. Banaue is also the gateway to the Ifugao Rice Terraces, included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.Have a memorable local experience by spending the night at a homestay in one of the small villages like Batad or Banga-an. Get immersed in the culture of the Ifugao people, wake-up to a view of the rice terraces with a hot cup of local coffee, and go on the breathtaking hike to Tappiya Waterfalls.

Location  — Ifugao province, Cordillera Region. Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The bus journey to Banaue from Manila takes around 8-9 hours. Bus departures from Manila are in the late evening hours (8pm to 10pm). So, expect to arrive early morning. You can also reach Banaue easily from other destinations in the Cordillera region. The land journey to Banaue takes around 3 hours from Sagada and 6 hours from Baguio

Banaue Travel Essentials

Tappiya Falls near Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Tappiya Falls near Batad Rice Terraces

Igorot farmers at Kiangan Rice Terraces & Open Air Museum, in Kiangan, Ifugao, Philippines Igorot farmers at Kiangan Rice Terraces & Open Air Museum

Batad Rice Terraces near Banaue in Ifugao, Philippines Batad Rice Terraces near Banaue, Ifugao

Bangaan Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Bangaan Rice Terraces near Banaue

Banaue Rice Terraces viewpoint, in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao

See more : Banaue, Ifugao travel tips

Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Vigan is the best-preserved Spanish-colonial town in Asia. If you’re a lover of old cities, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit.You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time (to 16th-century Philippines) as you explore Vigan. This heritage city is filled with cobblestone paths, horse-drawn carriages, centuries-old churches, and buildings. Get the ultimate Vigan experience by booking your room at one of the old Spanish-colonial homes.

Location  — Ilocos Norte province, Ilocos region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The nearest airport to Vigan is Laoag Airport, which serves direct flights from Manila. This journey takes around 2 hours (1-hour flight duration PLUS 2-hour land trip). You can also reach Vigan by bus. The land trip takes around 8-9 hours from Manila.

Vigan Travel Essentials

Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines Calle Crisologo, Vigan

See more : Vigan travel tips

Marcos at Tinago Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines

Iligan the “City of Majestic Waterfalls” deserves a spot on your bucketlist if you’re a lover of waterfalls (like me). This city in Northern Mindanao is home to many of the  Philippines’ most beautiful waterfalls . My favorites in Iligan include (1) Tinago Falls with its incredibly enchanting blue-green pool surrounded by the rainforest, (2) Maria Cristina Falls (massive twin waterfall), and the remote (3) Limunsudan Falls (the highest two-tiered waterfall in the Philippines).

Location  — Lanao del Norte province, Northern Mindanao region (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Cagayan de Oro-Laguindingan Airport (CGY), which serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Clark, and Dumaguete. Flight duration is 1h and 40m from Manila or 1h from Cebu. From Laguindingan Airport, the land trip to Iligan City takes around 1.5 hours.

Iligan Travel Essentials

Where to stay

Limunsudan Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines Limunsudan Falls, Iligan

Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines Maria Cristina Falls, Iligan City

See more : Iligan travel tips

Popular & Easy To Visit

Sharing these major flight gateways and popular tourist destinations. All of these places have their own special set of bucketlist-worthy attractions. This just goes to show that you can find beautiful spots all over the Philippines and how incredibly difficult it is to select just a few, to make this list of best places to visit. The destinations mentioned below are not listed by rank.

Marcos at Fort Santiago, in Intramuros, Manila City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Manila offers many attractions for travelers. Historic Intramuros is a good place to start. This walled city is filled with Spanish-era architecture including the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Meanwhile, Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are the best places to go to experience the nightlife, hip food scene, and the modern side of the city. Beat the tropical heat & shop at Manila’s massive malls. Metro Manila is home to many of the World’s largest malls including the ever-expanding Mall of Asia. Looking for a place to go near the airport? Visit the entertainment districts such as Newport City, City of Dreams, Solaire Resort, and Okada Manila.

Location  — Metro Manila capital region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is the main international gateway and domestic flight hub of the Philippines. The Manila-NAIA Airport is located in the cities of Pasay and Paranaque (among the 16 cities that comprise the Metro Manila area). Manila does not have a very good public transport system. For safe and easy rides around the metro, use a ride-hailing app like Grab.

Manila Travel Essentials

Manila-Luzon Shuttle – Tagaytay, Baguio, Laguna, La Union & more

National Museum of Natural History in Manila City, Philippines National Museum of Natural History, Manila

Intramuros Walled City in Manila City, Metro Manila, Philippines Intramuros Walled City, Manila

San Sebastian Cathedral interiors, in Metro Manila, Philippines San Sebastian Cathedral

Dusk view of Makati's skyline, from Top of the Citi by Chef jessie (rooftop bar), in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines Makati Skyline at Dusk

Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines Bonifacio High Street

See more : Manila travel tips

Chocolate Hills sunrise view in Carmen, Bohol, Philippines

Bohol is home to two of the Philippines’ most iconic attractions, often shown on tourism ads: The Chocolate Hills, and the bug-eyed Tarsier, one of the World’s smallest primates. This island in Central Philippines (near Cebu) offers so much more.In Panglao, you can stay at a nice hotel at one of the island’s many white-sand beach areas, go island hopping, enjoy diving, join an island hopping tour, and possibly have a dolphin encounter. If that’s not enough, you can enjoy a relaxing cruise along the pristine Loboc River, see the old Spanish-colonial heritage churches, Can-umantad waterfalls, Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, and remote Anda White Beach.If you plan to visit Cebu, then Bohol should be on your bucketlist too as you can easily see most of Bohol’s major tourist spots on a one-day tour from Cebu City.

How to go —  Touchdown at Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG), which serves direct flights from Manila, Clark, Davao and Cagayan de Oro. Travel time from Manila to Bohol is 1 hour by plane. You can also go by ferry from Cebu. Travel time from Cebu to Bohol is around 2 hours by fastcraft ferry.

Bohol Travel Essentials

Bohol Countryside Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Bohol Private Car Charter

Cebu-Bohol Supercat Ferry Ticket (One Way or Round Trip)

Dumaluan Beach in Bolod, Panglao Island, Philippines Dumaluan Beach in Panglao, Bohol

Loboc River Cruise in Bohol, Philippines. Photo by Michelle Simtoco Loboc River Cruise, Bohol

Doljo Beach in Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines Doljo Beach, Panglao Island

Can-Umantad Falls in Candijay, Bohol, Philippines Can-Umantad Falls, Bohol

Baclayon Church, Bohol

See more : Bohol travel tips

Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan, Philippines

Puerto Princesa is the capital and major flight gateway in Palawan. If you’re visiting El Nido, then Puerto Princesa, “The City in the Forest,” is worth a stopover. Start with a trip to Puerto Princesa Underground River, the 2nd longest navigable underground river in the world, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and New7Wonders of Nature. Then, spend a day beach bumming and snorkeling on an island hopping tour around Honda Bay. Don’t leave without going on the city tour and feasting on fresh seafood.

Location  — Central Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Puerto Princesa is 1.5 hours southwest of Manila by plane. Princesa International Airport serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Clark, and Davao. You can also go by ferry from Manila or Iloilo (on the RORO ferry-bus).

Puerto Princesa Travel Essentials

Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

Sabang Beach near Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan, Philippines Sabang Beach near Puerto Princesa Underground River

Starfish Island in Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines Starfish Island in Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa

The Baywalk in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines The Baywalk in Puerto Princesa

Kinabuch's Seafood dinner, in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philipines Kinabuch's, Puerto Princesa City

See more : Puerto Princesa travel tips

Journey to Heaven, at Garin Pilgrimage Resort in San Joaquin, Iloilo

This is my home, Iloilo! Located at the country’s geographical center, Iloilo is also known as the “Heart of the Philippines.” It is famous for its well-preserved heritage sites, distinct native cuisine, cheap seafood, and pristine natural sites.Bustling yet relaxed Iloilo City is one of the most livable cities in the country. A highly urbanized city that’s keen on preserving its cultural and natural heritage. Within an hour’s travel from the city center, you can find yourself along a peaceful beach in Guimaras Island, home to the World’s sweetest mangoes. Head to the islands of Gigantes, Sicogon, and Concepcion to see the stunning seascapes of Northern Iloilo. A drive to the south takes you to centuries-old Spanish-colonial churches including the Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Iloilo, you can also go on a land trip to other provinces in Panay Island — Antique, Capiz (Roxas City), and Aklan (Boracay).

Location  — Western Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Iloilo Airport, which serves direct flights from/to major airports in the Philippines, as well as Hong Kong and Singapore. Travel time to Iloilo by plane is 1h15m from Manila and 50m from Cebu. The airport also serves direct flights from/to Davao, Clark, Puerto Princesa, Cagayan de Oro and General Santos.

Iloilo Travel Essentials

Bacolod-Iloilo OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Iloilo Airport-Iloilo City Hotel Shuttle – ILO Private and Shared Transfers

Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo City

Calle Real in Iloilo City, Philippines Calle Real in Iloilo City

Tangke Lagoon in Gigantes Sur Island, Carles, Iloilo, Philippines Tangke Lagoon, Gigantes, Iloilo

Tatlong Pulo Beach in Jordan, Guimaras, Philippines Tatlong Pulo, Guimaras

Miagao Church in Miagao, Iloilo, Philippines Miagao Church, Iloilo

Balvan View in Tubungan, Iloilo, Philippines Balvan View, Tubungan, Iloilo

See more : Iloilo & Guimaras travel tips

Puning Hot Springs in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

Located within a 2-3 hour drive north of Manila, Clark Airport is a major flight hub and alternative international gateway to the Philippines. Clark is a rapidly developing tourist destination and economic zone. It’s home to Aqua Planet Waterpark, PH’s largest waterpark, and other themed attractions such as Dinosaur Island. From Clark, you can enjoy a heritage tour of nearby Angeles City and sample the famous food of Pampanga, the Culinary Capital of the Philippines.Clark is also a popular jump-off point to explore the Central Luzon provinces of Zambales, Tarlac, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Aurora. The best things to do in this region include the (1) offroad adventure to Puning Hot Springs, (2) Mount Pinatubo summit crater trek, (3) Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar heritage resort, (4) Zambales’ scenic beaches, (5) Subic Bay, and the (6) surfing town of Baler.

Location  — Clark Freeport, Pampanga region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Clark Airport serves both domestic and international flights. Because of its location near Manila, it often serves as an alternative to congested Manila-NAIA Airport. Travel time from Manila to Clark is around 2-3 hours. Clark Airport is located within Clark Freeport Zone, which occupies part of Angeles City, Pampanga. The drive between Clark Airport & Angeles City center takes around 20 minutes.

Clark Travel Essentials

Dinosaurs Island Clark Admission Ticket

Zoocobia Admission Ticket in Clark

Clark Safari and Adventure Park Ticket

Pampanga Sisig, at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pampanga Sisig, at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy

Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Holy Rosary Parish Church, Angeles City, Pampanga

Aqua Planet in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Aqua Planet, Clark

Marcos at Mount Pinatubo crater lake in Central Luzon, Philippines Mount Pinatubo crater lake, Philippines

See more : Clark & Pampanga travel tips

Isla Reta beachfront in Talucud Island, Samal, Davao del Norte, Philippines

Considering a trip to Southern Philippines? Start with Davao City, the largest urban center in Mindanao. Located at the foot of Mount Apo, the PH’s tallest mountain, this sprawling metropolis is where you can meet the great Philippine Eagle, get a taste of the infamous Durian fruit, and enjoy day trips to refreshing natural sites like Eden Nature Park and Samal Island. Of course, it is also the gateway to beautiful spots in Davao region and Mindanao.Samal Island is easily reached by ferry from Davao City. Enjoy a luxury stay at Pearl Farm Beach Resort, famous for its waterfront stilt cottages, or wander to the peaceful beaches of Talikud Island.

Location  — Davao region, Mindanao (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Davao Airport is the busiest airport in Mindanao. Travel time by plane from Manila to Davao is 2 hours. From Davao Airport, it typically takes 30 minutes to get to Davao City center.

Davao Travel Essentials

Davao (DVO) Airport to Hotel/City Private Transfer

Davao 24hr COVID-19 RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Testing

Davao COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing

Philippine Eagle Center, Davao City, Philippines Philippine Eagle Center, Davao

Eden Nature Park city view, in Davao City, Philippines Davao City view from Eden Nature Park

Jack's Ridge in Davao City, Philippines Jack's Ridge, Davao City

Monfort Bat Colony in Samal Island, Davao del Norte, Philippines Monfort Bat Colony, Samal Island

See more : Davao travel tips

Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

Cagayan de Oro, the largest city in Northern Mindanao, is dubbed as the “Adventure Capital of the Philippines”. This city is famous for its white water river rafting, river tubing, paragliding, nature parks. Cagayan de Oro is also a convenient hub for tourists visiting the majestic waterfalls of Iligan, scenic sites of Camiguin Island, and cool attractions of Bukidnon province.

Location  — Northern Mindanao region (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Cagayan de Oro-Laguindingan Airport (CGY), which serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Clark, and Dumaguete. Flight duration is 1h and 40m from Manila or 1h from Cebu. From Laguindingan Airport, the land trip to Cagayan de Oro City takes around 1 hour.

Cagayan de Oro Travel Essentials

Seven Seas Waterpark Ticket in Cagayan de Oro

Dahilayan Adventure Park Admission Ticket

Philippines Unlimited Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

High Ridge in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Philippines High Ridge, Cagayan de Oro

Dahilayan Adventure Park in Bukidnon, Philippines Dahilayan Adventure Park, Bukidnon

White Island in Camiguin, Philippines White Island, Camiguin

See more : Cagayan de Oro & beyond travel tips

Swimming with sea turtles at Apo Island, in Dauin, Oriental Negros, Philippines

Extremely chill Dumaguete is the jump-off point to Apo Island. If swimming with sea turtles is on your bucketlist, one of the best places to go is Apo Island, a protected marine sanctuary with sprawling coral gardens. From Dumaguete, you can also visit Siquijor Island and the many waterfalls, lakes & mountain resorts of Negros Oriental province.

Location  — Negros Oriental province, Central Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Dumaguete Airport is about an hour south of Manila by plane. You can also fly directly from Cebu. The flight only takes 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can get to Dumaguete by bus+ferry from Cebu. The bus+ferry journey takes around 6 hours.

Dumaguete Travel Essentials

Manjuyod Sandbar and Twin Lakes Tour

Siquijor Cambugahay Falls and Heritage Day Trip

Twin Lakes Natural Park with Dumaguete City Tour

Siliman University in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, Philippines Siliman University, Dumaguete City

Casaroro Falls in Valencia, Oriental Negros Casaroro Falls, Negros Oriental

Dumaguete Boulevard at night, in Dumaguete City, Oriental Negros, Philippines Dumaguete Boulevard at night

See more : Dumaguete & Negros Oriental travel tips

Daraga Church & Mayon Volcano view from Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines

Legazpi is perhaps the most photogenic city in the Philippines. Here, the skyline view is dominated by Mayon Volcano, recognized as the World’s “perfect” cone-shaped volcano.Legazpi serves as the gateway to Bicol, a region famous for the whale shark watching in Donsol, Sorsogon, gorgeous islands of Caramoan (Camarines Sur), and Calaguas (Camarines Norte), Misibis Bay Resort, and of course, delicious Bicolano dishes (Bicol Express!).

Location  — Albay province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The fastest way to get to Legazpi is by air. Flight duration to Legazpi Airport is 1 hour from Manila or Cebu. Alternatively, you can also reach Legazpi by bus from Manila. The land trip takes around 9 to 12 hours.

Legazpi Travel Essentials

Cagsawa Ruins & Mayon Volcano in Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines Cagsawa Ruins, Daraga

Mayon Volcano view near Cagsawa ruins in Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines Mayon Volcano view near Cagsawa ruins, Albay

See more : Legazpi, Bicol & Mayon Volcano travel tips

San Juanico Bridge in Leyte-Samar, Philippines

Tacloban City, the regional capital of Eastern Visayas, is home to the San Juanico Bridge, the longest bridge in the Philippines and as the site of U.S. General Douglas MacArthur’s landing, a monumental event during WWII.Eastern Visayas is a region blessed with many of the Philippines’ most awe-inspiring natural sights including Kalanggaman Island’s insanely beautiful sandbar, the incredible rock formations of Biri Island, majestic waterfalls of Samar and alluring Sambawan Island in Biliran province.

Location  — Leyte province, Eastern Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Tacloban-Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport, which serves direct flights from/to Manila, Cebu, and Clark. Travel time from Manila to Tacloban is 1.5 hours by flight. From Tacloban Airport, the ride to the downtown area takes 15 minutes only.

Tacloban Travel Essentials

Philippines 4G Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

MacArthur Park in Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines MacArthur Park

Sohoton Caves National Park in Basey, Samar, Philippines Sohoton Caves National Park

Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte, Philippines Kalanggaman Island

Tinago Falls in Caibiran, Biliran, Philippines Tinago Falls, Biliran

Sambawan Island in Maripipi, Biliran, Philippines Sambawan Island

See more : Tacloban, Leyte travel tips

Wright Park in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines

Visit the Philippines’ summer capital. Baguio City offers a cool climate, urban comforts, pine-filled parks and an exciting food scene. There are a lot of fun day trips beyond the city as well such as the La Trinidad strawberry fields and flower farms in Benguet.

Location  — Benguet province, Cordillera region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Land travel to Baguio is approximately 5-6 hours from Manila, 6 hours from Banaue, and 5-6 hours from Sagada.

Baguio Travel Essentials

La Trinidad strawberry fields in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines La Trinidad strawberry fields near Baguio

Flower farms in Atok, Benguet, Philippines Atok flower farms, Benguet

Camp John Hay Golf Course in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Camp John Hay Golf Course, Baguio

Burnham Park Lake in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Burnham Park Lake, Baguio City

Bell Church in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Bell Church, Baguio City

See more : Baguio & Benguet travel tips

Subic Bay beachfront, near Olongapo City, Zambales

Subic Bay is a popular destination for themed attractions and natural sites. Subic’s top tourist spots include the Pamulaklakin Nature Park, Boardwalk Park, Zoobic Safari, Ocean Adventure, Inflatable Island & duty-Free shopping malls.

Location  — Zambales province, Central Luzon region (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The land trip to Subic takes around 2-4 hours from Manila or 1.5 hours from Clark. Aside from buses/shuttle that go directly to Subic, you can also get on buses bound for Olongapo (Zamables). Subic Bay Freeport Zone is a short 10-minute ride away from the bus terminal in Olongapo.

Subic Bay Travel Essentials

Zoobic Safari Admission Ticket in Subic

Ocean Adventure Admission Ticket in Subic Bay

Camayan Beach Resort Day Pass

See more : Subic Bay travel tips

Taal Volcano view from Tagaytay Twin Lakes in Batangas-Cavite, Philippines

Tagaytay is a popular go-weekend vacation spot near Manila? Go on a 2-3 hour drive to Tagaytay, enjoy the cool mountain breeze, and see the iconic view of the highly active Taal Volcano.Taal Volcano is famous for Vulcan Point, the world’s largest island within a lake (Crater Lake) that is situated on an island (Volcano Island/Taal Island) located in a lake (Lake Taal) within an island (Luzon) in the Pacific Ocean.

Location  — Cavite-Batangas provinces, Southern Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  You can find Tagataytay-bound buses at Cubao, Buendia or Pasay in Metro Manila. Travel time is around 2 to 3 hours depending on the pace of traffic. Alternatively, you can hop on a shuttle van from EGI Mall near the LRT Gil Puyat Station.

Tagaytay Travel Essentials

Sky Ranch Tagaytay Ride-All-You-Can Day Pass

Paradizoo Admission Ticket in Tagaytay

Tagaytay Day Tour from Manila

See More of the Philippines

Lily Flower Blooms in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines

One of my favorite highland destinations in the Philippines is Lake Sebu, the homeland of the T’boli people. This peaceful town in Mindanao offers a cool mountain climate, beautiful waterfalls, and scenic lake views. When in Lake Sebu, do not miss the 7 Falls Zipline. It’s one of the tallest in Asia and offers a breathtaking view of Lake Sebu’s seven waterfalls. Enjoy an early morning canoe ride to see the fields of blooming lotus greet the sunrise.

Location  — South Cotabato province,Soccsksargen region, Mindanao Island (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  General Santos Airport is around two hours by plane from Manila or around 1 hour from Cebu or Iloilo. Land travel from General Santos to Lake Sebu takes 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, can book a flight to Davao Airport go on a 2 to 3-hour land trip to General Santos.

Lake Sebu Travel Essentials

Hikong Bente (2nd Falls) in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines Hikong Bente (2nd Falls), Lake Sebu

Punta Isla Lake Resort in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines Punta Isla Lake Resort, Lake Sebu

See more : Lake Sebu travel tips

Paoay Church (San Agustin Church) in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, Philippines

Ilocos Norte and its capital city, Laoag, is one of the Philippines’ top heritage destinations. See the Paoay Church, included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites, and many other exquisite Spanish-colonial churches. Go farther north to find the iconic windmills, beautiful beaches, surfing, and coastal landscapes in Pagudpud and Burgos.

Location  — Ilocos Norte province, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Traveling by air is the fastest and most convenient way to Ilocos Norte. Laoag Airport is an hour north of Manila by plane. You can also reach Laoag by land from different areas in Luzon. The land trip to Laoag is around 9 hours from Manila.

Laoag Travel Essentials

Kapurpurawan White Rock in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Kapurpurawan White Rock

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte

Bangui Windmills in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Bangui Windmills

See more : Laoag & Ilocos Norte travel tips

Salagdoong Beach in Siquijor, Philippines

Hop on a ferry from Dumaguete & wander around the mystical island of Siquijor. This island province is famous for its stunning beach coves, waterfalls, and as a home of mountain-dwelling mangkukulam (healers/Filipino witches).

Location  — Central Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, which serves direct flights from Manila and Cebu. From Dumaguete Pier, ride one of the frequent ferries to Siquijor. Travel time by fastcraft (high-speed ferry) is 50 minutes. You can also reach Siquijor on a direct ferry from Cebu or Bohol.

Siquijor Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor, Philippines Cambugahay Falls, Siquijor

Lazi Church in Siquijor, Philippines Lazi Church, Siquijor

See more : Siquijor travel tips

Bato Ni Ning Ning in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines

Port Barton is a quiet beachside village in the town of San Vicente. It is popular among backpackers and travelers who want to experience a relaxed rural atmosphere. Here, you can go about and explore many pristine offshore islands and venture to Long Beach in San Vicente Town Proper, reputedly the longest white sand beach in the Philippines. San Vicente/Port Barton is located between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, in mainland Palawan.

Location  — San Vicente, Northern Palawan province, Palawan province, MIMAROPA region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The fastest way is by flying directly to the new San Vicente Airport, which serves direct flights from Clark. From San Vicente Airport / Poblacion, you can charter a boat to get to Port Barton. Travel time by boat takes around 1 hour. You can also go by land from other spots in Palawan Island. Travel time to San Vincente takes around 5-6 hours from Puerto Princesa, 2.5-3 hours from El Nido or 1-1.5 hours from Roxas Bus Terminal.

San Vicente Travel Essentials

Port Barton Island Hopping from San Vicente (Join-In Tour)

Port Barton Beach at dusk, in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines Port Barton Beach, San Vicente, Palawan

Maxima Island in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines Maxima Island, San Vicente, Palawan

San Vicente Long Beach in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines San Vicente Long Beach, San Vicente, Palawan

Marcos at Matukad Island in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Bicol, Philippines

Caramoan rose to fame when the islands became the location of TV reality show “Survivor.” It was featured multiple times not only by Survivor US, but also various international editions of the franchise. After you’ve seen Caramoan, it’s not hard to see why. The islands are blessed with towering limestone cliffs that serve as the perfect backdrop of hidden lagoons and crowdless white sand beaches.

Location  — Camarines Sur province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Sabang Port in San Jose, Camarines Sur province is the jump-off point to Caramoan. Travel time to Sabang Port by car is 1 hour from Naga City (Naga-Pili Airport) or 3 hours from Legazpi City (Legazpi-Bicol Airport). From Sabang Port, ride a local ferry to Guijalo Port in Caramoan. Travel time is around 1 hour and 45 minutes. From Guijalo, the land trip to Caramoan town proper takes around 30 minutes. From Caramoan town proper, the islands are accessible on whole day island hopping tours.

Caramoan Travel Essentials

Caramoan Islands view from Matudak Island in Camarines Sur, Philippines Caramoan Islands, Camarines Sur

Lahos Island in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Lahos Island, Camarines Sur

Tayak Beach in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Tayak Beach, Camarines Sur

Caramoan Church (St. Micheal de Archangel Parish Church) in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Caramoan Church, Camarines Sur

Mahabang Buhang Beach in Calaguas Island, Vinzons, Camarines Norte, Philippines

Mahabang Buhangin Beach in Calaguas Island is perhaps the only beach in Northern Philippines that can rival the likes of Boracay and the best beaches in Palawan when it comes to powdery fine white sand. Despite its remote location in Camarines Norte, it has risen as one of the top places to visit among beach campers and adventure-seeking tourists. The beachfront is shy of one kilometer in length and has a sprawling view of unbelievably turquoise blue and crystal clear waters.

Location  — Vinzons, Camarines Norte province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The main jump-off points to Calaguas Island is are the towns of Paracale and Vinzons in Camarines Norte province. From Manila, the land journey to Paracale/Vinzons takes around 8-9 hours. Paracale is the nearer gateway to Calaguas Island. Travel time by ferry from Paracale to Calaguas is around 2 hours. The nearest airport with commercial flights is Naga-Pili Airport (WNP), which is a 2-hour drive away from Paracale/Vinzons.

Marcos at Magasang Rock Formation in Biri, Samar, Philippines

Biri is one of my all-time favorite “off the beaten path” adventures in the Philippines. Facing the Pacific Ocean, this remote island is home to awe-inspiring rock formations carved over time by nature. Scramble up to one of the peaks for an awe-inspiring view of raging sea waves crashing over the rugged landscape.

Location  — Northern Samar province, Eastern Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The nearest airport to Biri is Catarman Airport, which serves direct flights from Clark. From Catarman Airport, you’ll first need to go on a 1-hour land trip to Lavezares Port, the main jump-off point to Biri Islands. From Lavezares Port, hop on a ferry to Biri. The sea crossing takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, it’s possible to reach Biri from Calbayog Airport or Tacloban Airport. Travel time by land from Tacloban to Lavezares is 6 hours.

Bel-at Rock Formation sunset view, in Biri, Samar, Philippines Bel-at Rock Formations, Biri

Marcos at Magasang Rock Formation in Biri, Samar, Philippines Magasang Rock Formation, Biri

Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Endless stretches of white-sand beaches, not your only image of a perfect island getaway? Surigao del Sur province has many extraordinary sights for the off-beat traveler. See the majestic Tinuy-an Falls and bizarre Hinatuan Enchanted River, a magically clear, deep blue river that seems to spring from nowhere.

Location  — Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur province, Caraga region, Mindanao (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The Enchanted River is located in the coastal town of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur province. The nearest airports are Butuan Airport and Davao Airport. Travel time by bus to Hinatuan is around 4 hours from Butuan and 5 hours from Davao. From Hinatuan town proper, the trip to the Enchanted River takes around 20 minutes.

Where to Stay in Philippines

Click below & search recommended Philippines hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

• Puerto Princesa
• General Santos
• Iloilo City
• Gigantes Islands
• Southeast Asia

Find more posts about:

• Best Travel
• Best Places
• Best Things To Do

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

August 20, 2015 at 7:12 pm

Thank you for Iligan :) will share!

August 20, 2015 at 10:03 pm

Waterfalls are my weakness. Plus points for the likes of Tinago, where you can enjoy the swimming in the natural pool, and not just appreciate them from a distance. Thanks for dropping by Rain!

August 21, 2015 at 7:20 am

Thank You for featuring Iloilo! The food. The ambiance. It’s a sanctuary! ?

August 21, 2015 at 8:24 pm

My pleasure Jae. More people should discover and explore Iloilo.

August 21, 2015 at 12:01 pm

Should include Batanes in your bucketlist.. ?

August 21, 2015 at 8:22 pm

It already is! I would have included Batanes on this list if I had gone there already. For the next update, I think I’ll be needing help from my travel buddies to convince people why Batanes is worth a go.

August 22, 2015 at 1:02 pm

I definitely agree about Batanes! This may help do some convincing – http://theroadtoneverland.com/the-batanes-great-spaces-list/ :)

February 4, 2016 at 5:27 pm

I’ve been dreaming of going to Batanes too =)

January 17, 2019 at 6:00 pm

I agree. Batanes should be included. Its the most serene and lovely place to go that if you want a peaceful day away from all office tension this is the right place. Not much for food though but the place and people – I’m all thumbs up! Highly recommended!

August 21, 2015 at 1:48 pm

Thanks for featuring Surigao ? You have to visit Turtle Island too in Barobo, Surigao del Sur, with its white beaches, clear sea water, cave, smaller islets around it and its beautiful scenery at the top of it. Brittania beach is so cool too .

August 21, 2015 at 8:21 pm

I love Surigao. Can’t get enough of surfing in Siargao and the lagoons of Sohoton. Thanks for the suggestions. I really want to visit more places in the eastern coast of mainland Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

August 21, 2015 at 5:17 pm

Boracay Island? i know its not that much of a paradise anymore but i think it does deserve to be on this list

August 21, 2015 at 8:19 pm

I will be including Boracay on the next update. Boracay is a rare beauty not only in the PH, but across the globe.

August 21, 2015 at 9:52 pm

Thanks much for including my hometown SAGADA… Have you been to Bumod-ok Falls? ??? Good luck and God bless!

August 21, 2015 at 10:49 pm

Yes, Bumod-ok Falls and Pongas Falls. I <3 Sagada. Thanks Gamay!

August 22, 2015 at 12:45 am

Hello, Best post I have read from browsing FB today! Have gone visited half, obviously there are still more! Keep on traveling and sharing! It really is more fun in the Phils! :) -kathy

August 22, 2015 at 1:49 am

Love your article. Grew up in Baguio City. Was hoping to see Baguio as one of the list. I guess the City had lost its charm.

August 22, 2015 at 4:53 am

You haven’t been to Antique(san jose, antique. In there we have beaches such as malalison beach. We call the virgin island. Malumpati beach, sira an spring in anini-y antique and many more.

March 1, 2017 at 11:49 am

Nice place Antique.. Mauli gid ako sa Antique Ma’am

August 22, 2015 at 10:56 am

August 22, 2015 at 12:33 pm

Nice compilation and awesome pictures! ;)

August 22, 2015 at 6:00 pm

I had an opportunity to visit the Philippines and I only had a week to stay. I chose Boracay. I had the most wonderful and transformative experience there. Not only was it beyond beautiful with countless experiences to be had, the people were some of the friendliest I’ve experienced in my world travels. I have befriended some and keep contact even now. I’d like to thank Marcos for this glimpse at some of what the country has to offer and beautiful photos. I personally now consider the Philippines to be a home away from home and thank the people there for embracing me. Everything is better in the Philippines. ^_^

August 22, 2015 at 8:55 pm

This is a beautifully presented blog. I have traveled the Philippines quite extensively back in the day but obviously, there’s a whole lot more to see, pick up souvenirs and create memories.

August 28, 2015 at 7:30 pm

thank you for bicol:) i think you should also visit calaguas islands in camarines norte its so beautiful.

August 28, 2015 at 9:39 pm

My pleasure Michelle. I’ve been to Calaguas and it’s way up my list of the Philippines’ most beautiful beaches :)

September 3, 2015 at 12:19 pm

I have been to CDO a lot but didn’t make time for Ma. Cristina falls and Tinago falls. Regret! Should make time next time :)

September 12, 2015 at 10:11 am

Good Job, Marcos… nice one. i love it. Thanks…

September 12, 2015 at 5:50 pm

How about syquijor marcos?

September 14, 2015 at 5:01 am

5 down 6 more to go! Gigantes sur Island is sexy!!! Im gonna share this to all of my friends around the world, it’s more fun in the Philippines indeed!! Thanks for the great post sir!

October 17, 2015 at 5:18 pm

So fascinated with the places you’ve pinned on your blog. Visited four places out of eleven.

Please visit Cagayan Valley,too.

We have plenty of waterfalls, lagoon and jaw-dropping cave esp the Bluewater Cave.

November 21, 2015 at 10:05 am

Hey Marcos,

Greetings from the USA. I am a solo traveler going back into the Philippines February 2k16 for a couple of months. I will be visiting: Cebu, Camotes, Bantanyan, Apo, Palawan and then I will head into Thailand (4 my 4th time there).

Do you have any information on the conditions in Camotes and Bantanyan? I have been scouring the blogs but cannot find out current conditions of these islands. Have they recuperated from the typhoons?

Happy trails, Gregg

November 21, 2015 at 11:40 am

I actually visited Bantayan in Cebu earlier this year. The island is a good place as any to visit. The resorts have recovered from any (recent) typhoons. I haven’t gone to Camotes yet, but I’d go out on a limb and say that the resorts there are operating normally, too.

November 23, 2015 at 1:17 pm

What was the Overall Cost of all trips? Or separately cost of each destination? I just want to see what an estimate of the cost would be for all 11. Thank you!

November 30, 2015 at 7:24 am

If you are near the Romblon Province… you are welcome on Sibuyan Island…the Galapagos of Asia Enjoy 100% pure nature…

February 16, 2016 at 3:53 am

Batanes should be on this list! Much more so than the other places in this list! It’s so weird that it was not included. I had to re-read the list to make sure I just didn’t miss it.

February 16, 2016 at 11:49 am

Pangasinan is also an easy to go for first timers. We have lots of beaches there and tourist spots including Hundred Islands. ?

February 25, 2016 at 2:23 am

Very nice to see Dumaguete in the list :-) Kind Regards

PS: I like your picture plug-in for the small images. would you mid sharing which one you use?

February 25, 2016 at 3:41 pm

Thanks Rhoody ^_^

It’s a premium plug-in called is “Justified Image Grid.’

March 10, 2016 at 6:59 am

Awesome and really helpful article you wrote. Came across your article while searching for Gigantes island. You basically gave me so many ideas on where to take my family when we get there in the next few months! P.S. You should check out Sipalay, Negros Occidental out too and try and head over to Danugan Island Sanctuary – http://www.danjuganisland.ph/ – yes it’s not waterfalls but on the way to Sipalay, you can make a stop over at Mag-aso Falls somewhere in Kabankalan City

Have fun travelling! Maria

April 19, 2016 at 2:44 pm

Thanks for sharing this ideas, last yr we visited Calaguas..3 days are not enough to explore all the breathtaking scenery from that place. love it and its really a good place to hideaway and relax. thank u my khush also

April 28, 2016 at 4:55 am

Lovely places.. thanks for listing them. i’m going to visit the Philippines by the end of this year with my better half. i think this is perfect guide.

May 1, 2016 at 4:02 am

Please visit Aliwagwag Falls, Cateel, Davao Oriental.

May 1, 2016 at 8:49 am

I’ve already been to Aliwagwag! It was very beautiful. I’ve included it on my list of must-visit waterfalls in the Philippines .

May 2, 2016 at 10:59 pm

Can you suggest a 4 days tour in bangkok thailand beside visiting the temples,floating market.thanks

May 4, 2016 at 12:54 pm

Hey Jessica :) You can find my Thailand blogs, guides, and travel tips on this link: https://www.detourista.com/x/search/network/?q=thailand

May 27, 2016 at 11:20 am

Thanks for spending your time traveling around our country and giving people ideas what we can offer here it will helps our tourism industry and most of all thanks for featuring my home city Iloilo.

June 26, 2016 at 7:54 pm

Hello there,

How long did you spend on each island and in the Phillipines in total?

June 27, 2016 at 10:52 am

I live in the Philippines and I visited these places on different trips. Visiting the highlights on each stop on the list should take 3-5 days. Many of these places are located in the same (big) islands like Luzon and Mindanao :)

August 16, 2016 at 10:02 pm

Been to awesome Palawan… next is Bicol… Good article man…

August 17, 2016 at 6:47 am

Thanks Armando! Bicol is beautiful, make sure to visit Calaguas or Caramoan Islands if you want to visit beaches. Of course, don’t miss the view of Mayon Volcano and enjoy the delicious food in Bicol.

September 7, 2016 at 2:43 pm

Great tips. Traveling in June 2017 with 4 adult kids. A lot of the activities esp in Palawan and Cebu are for divers. We aren’t divers but my adult kids are active and me not so much due to aches and pains. Will we find a happy medium in going to Coron, El Nido, Bohol? We enjoy good food and wouldn’t mind some time for pampering.

September 24, 2016 at 2:50 am

Cool Theresa! You can enjoy a lot in those places even if you are not divers. In Coron, for example, you can already see the rich marine life just on a snorkeling/island hopping tour. There are also a lot of amazing places to see & experience above water.

September 10, 2016 at 9:43 am

Hi there i am in cebu now. What would be the best circuit to go for flow here to see some of these cool place ? I wanna surf to buy at present no swell so thought if start a citcuit for a couple of weeks then hit the surf island Should i start with palawan? Or would there be an easy flow direction from cebu? Cheers Prem

September 24, 2016 at 2:48 am

Hello Prim! If you want the best surfing, go to Siargao. There’s a direct Cebu-Siargao flight by Cebu Pacific. To go to Palawan, you need to go back to Cebu by plane & take another flight to Puerto Princesa. If it were me, I would visit Siargao first & then do a more chill trip in Palawan.

November 21, 2016 at 11:06 pm

Thanks for sharing these places! Palawan looks beautiful. And Illocos looks very interesting! Ive written them down for when i go to the Philippines x

November 29, 2016 at 2:32 pm

Thanks for the comment Stephanie. Have fun on your future trips in PH!

January 7, 2017 at 1:52 pm

I’m glad South Cotabato and Northern Mindanao are featured in your list. As someone who’s living here in Mindanao, we’re proud of our tourist spots and beautiful natural resources.

January 8, 2017 at 6:43 am

Thanks for the comment Ana. I love visiting these places :) I had gone to more places in South Cotabato and North Mindanao recently. There are a lot more places to visit in the area :D

May 20, 2017 at 8:25 am

After our tour in iloilo city and Boracay , other towns in Panay island would be another bests. See a real MUMMY in Casanayan for the first time, swim in Dayhagan beach, see the biggest bell in Asia, be amazed of the tallest Marian image in Asia found in Pilar, the very high statue of sacred heart and seafood in Roxas city, the Kawa bath in Antique, the caves and super big acacia trees and waterfalls in Pilar, Sicogon island and Gigantes island . all of these are in Panay island ,3 hour bus ride from iloilo city..

May 29, 2017 at 11:31 am

What about Borocay? How does it compare to the places listed above?

May 29, 2017 at 10:59 pm

Boracay is beautiful & one of the top spots in the Philippines. It’s one of the best places to visit for vacationers. You might want to check out this list of the best beaches in the Philippines to compare with other island destinations in the country.

June 8, 2017 at 2:11 am

Why didn’t you include Batanes? Its so beautiful to miss it?

June 8, 2017 at 2:52 am

Check out this list! https://www.detourista.com/guide/philippines-best-beaches/

June 15, 2017 at 8:49 pm

Love Philippines!!

June 17, 2017 at 3:30 pm

I like this side. I want to visit .

June 27, 2017 at 8:39 pm

awesome blog! Just wanna ask what camera and lenses you used on those lovely photos.

June 27, 2017 at 11:09 pm

Glad you like my photo Sean :)

They were taken on different trips over the last decade or so, haha. I’ve used different cameras (& lenses) but mainly these: Nikon D5000 Panasonic Lumix DSLM Sony A6000

Many photos on my blog are also taken with a mobile phone: Huawei P9

November 6, 2017 at 3:19 am

Wat would be the cost for solo trip for 5 days

November 17, 2017 at 10:19 pm

It depends on what places you want to visit, activities & hotel rates. Generally, a backpacker-friendly budget in the Philippines is around USD 20-50 or PHP 1000-2500 per day.

Check out these posts to get an idea of the costs of traveling in the Philippines: El Nido Travel Guide Blog Boracay Travel Guide Blog

November 13, 2017 at 11:58 pm

Interesting list but I would have to say that my first reaction when I was browsing through the places on the list was to disagree. However upon reading the article thats when I noticed that the list would Be for first time travelers who would like to start discovering beautiful places in the Philippines. I guess A more descriptive title would be better for this article. But interesting list.

November 17, 2017 at 10:03 pm

Thank you Blanne. The Philippines has so many beautiful spots to offer beyond these places listed. They are definitely worth seeking.

You’re right, I wrote this article keeping the ease of traveling to & around these spots in mind.

If you have destinations that you think should be on the article, I and my readers would appreciate including them on your next comment :)

November 24, 2017 at 4:36 am

How many days do you suggest to visit Philippines?

November 24, 2017 at 7:18 am

Depends on how many places you want to visit. Two to four week will be enough to visit the highlights. Or, at least 2 to 5 days per destination.

May 1, 2018 at 5:37 pm

Sir whats better to visit in Kalibo, cebu,davao or puerto princesa or legaspi?I went to corn boracay dumaguete and bohol already

May 3, 2018 at 12:08 am

Hi Sweet, I recommend that you go to Palawan!

September 8, 2018 at 4:51 pm

Hi… Can I asked what hotel in Baguio city and in palawan most expensive and worth it to stay..thank you

September 19, 2018 at 1:53 am

Hey Rosie. You can check the list of hotels here . Just enter your travel dates, sort the results by the highest guest reviews, and use the price/star rating filter.

September 11, 2018 at 11:59 pm

Hi, when having to choose to add days somewhere to stay longer you would go with Cebu/Bohol are or Palawan? :)

September 19, 2018 at 2:08 am

It depends on what kind of places you want to visit. For the best beaches & islands, go for Palawan (esp. El Nido and Coron). Explore more of Palawan if you want to visit more off-beat beaches and islands. If you want to have a more diverse experience, extend your trip in Cebu/Bohol (food, waterfalls, heritage sites, urban comforts etc.)

December 15, 2018 at 8:23 am

Totally agree with your list. Having Cebu and Bohol on your top 3 list is indeed the right thing. Palawan is the most popular to me in terms of local and foreign tourists that visits the place and Cebu as the second best places in your list is indeed correct, for me, and I also agree with your number 3. All in all, I agree with your list. These are indeed the best places in Philippines that every tourists shouldn’t miss

January 17, 2019 at 2:49 am

Thank you for this information I’ve enjoyed reading all your advise . We are a couple in our 50’s hoping to spend 3 weeks in the Philippines soon thinking of port Barton, El I do , Bohol what do you think ? Than you

January 18, 2019 at 4:44 pm

Yes, those are good choices! From El Nido, you can take the ferry to Coron as well. From Bohol, you can continue your trip to Dumaguete & Siquijor Island.

January 24, 2019 at 1:31 am

If I have one week to visit the Philipines, what places do you recommend me to go?

January 24, 2019 at 4:00 am

You can maybe limit to one, two or three places on the list. A good combination would be, Cebu & Palawan.

February 26, 2019 at 3:58 pm

What a fantastic, informative post with beautiful pictures! I am considering an 8 day visit in April and am trying to figure out where to go so this is very helpful. I’d love to see beautiful beaches and the whale shark, maybe the Tarsiers too. Any suggestions on where I could go and the order to go in? Thank you!!

March 1, 2019 at 2:37 pm

With 8 days, I recommend that you limit the no. destinations to 2 or 3 spots. I suggest Palawan and Cebu.

In Palawan, you can either go to Coron… or do the Puerto Princesa-El Nido route.

From Cebu, you can base at Cebu City and visit Bohol / South Cebu on day trips.

Enjoy the Philippines!

April 25, 2019 at 7:26 pm

Marcos, i just want to thank you for the awesome info you’ve provided through your pages. I’m heading to the Philippines in a few weeks for fourteen nights, i’m still quite confused regarding where to spend my time but i’m sure that once i look closer at all you have shared that i will be able to make my destination choices and thoroughly enjoy my time!

April 26, 2019 at 11:49 am

Hi Jason, you can start planning by including Palawan (El Nido and/or Coron) and then add more places that pique your interest. Enjoy the Philippines!

June 30, 2019 at 1:02 pm

Wow, that’s an awesome compilation of the best things to do in the Philippines! I’ll definitely share it as a reference with our readers, both travelers and local organizers. Thanks!

July 3, 2019 at 11:09 am

I’ve been to these places especially in most part of Mindanao and it’s such a rare beauty. That’s why whenever my friends would invite me to visit nearby countries in asia, I always tell them to finish exploring the Philippines first because there are literally thousands of places to visit and enjoy. It’s more fun in the Philippines, indeed :)

July 4, 2019 at 11:18 pm

I am so looking forward to reading this in more depth and checking out all the links, before my first trip to the Philippines at Christmas time

August 14, 2019 at 1:38 pm

Its nice have a safe trip always! share more adventures

August 24, 2019 at 2:50 pm

why have’nt you included Leyte or Southern Leyte two of the most interesting historic areas of the phlippines with tons of interesting stories from the second world war and the adventures of Marco Polo

August 28, 2019 at 1:51 pm

Actually, Phillipines is one of the places in my Bucket list which I have not explored yet. I love the city of Phillipines and the places you shared are so beautiful and so amazing. I really wish that someday I will visit this city as soon as possible. I just fall in love with these places. Thank you so much for this great post.

December 3, 2019 at 5:36 pm

From your article stating Palawan and Puerto Princesa at the very top of your best of list of the Philippines, we went extra to these two places to start our trip. What a shame and a big waste of money! Why not mention that Puerto Princesa, Palawan and particularly El Nido are overpriced tourist traps? How about giving a clear account of the greediness of the hotels, guesthouse and restaurants owners for such a low quality of service and infrastructure? (compared to over places in Asia). You do give an extensive list of nicer places in your article but saying that Palawan is the must destination is a big lie. If you want to be honest and help travelers, then weight your arguments, tell that what is special on Palawan is the island hoping and lagoons, for which the boat tours have a cost as well. And if you want to boost these places for some hidden interest of yours, at least be honest and give a realistic account of the prices and quality of services for each place you present. Thank you

January 30, 2020 at 8:00 pm

Hi Elodie! That is exactly my difficulty choosing where to go.. I am going for the first time to Philippines and i am really excited. However i only have 8 days this time as I am going to do a yoga teaching for a month right after.

my question is: If you are first time travelling to Philippines and have only 8 days should I do 1. Port Barton and el Nido or 2. Siargao ?

I am a lot into exploring and ideally less crowded more paradise like. I dont need any ‘luxury’ and I am going by my self end of Feb. any suggestions?

I know El Nido/Coron is like ‘THE’ place but i am not sure about how busy and tourity it might feel nowdays. In the other side Siargao seems really nice but not sure if the beauty would compare to el Nido.

thoughts please? :)

February 1, 2020 at 9:56 pm

Siargao is beautiful too. You can visit Sohoton Lagoons/Bucas Grande Island, which is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in the Philippines.

December 7, 2019 at 8:59 pm

Thanks for a great article. The Philippines is such an underrated country! I fell in love with the place on my first visit in 2014. I even met my wife in Manila.

December 30, 2019 at 6:37 pm

Amazing info! Question – how wheelchair friendly is Palawan, Manila & Cebu? My fiancé is quite mobile – he can around easily but he’s still in a wheelchair. I know it’s hard to say but is difficult yet do-able or completely forget it and don’t go?

December 31, 2019 at 7:32 am

Hi Terry. It’s definitely doable :)

January 24, 2020 at 1:53 pm

Hello Marcos,

Loved your article! I have two weeks in Philippines and I am flying in to Manila from Bali and onward to Hong Kong. I have only booked tickets from A-B-C .. and not inter city flights. I am planning to do Palawan -el nido, coron, Cebu and Bohol in central and sagada and rice fields in north. so my question- it a best option to come back to manila to catch flight to Hong kong or do you suggest to fly out from any other destination? .Thank you

February 1, 2020 at 10:00 pm

You can consider the direct flights to Hong Kong from Cebu or Puerto Princesa (Palawan) as well.

Here’s a route you can take:

Manila (+Sagada/Banaue) Clark to Palawan (Coron or Puerto Princesa) Flight Palawan to Cebu flight Cebu to Hong Kong flight

February 9, 2020 at 6:25 pm

Wishing to see the true natural beauty of Northern Mindanao;) Extremely loving places just like the article.

February 12, 2020 at 5:05 am

Wow! Thank you for sharing your travel adventures in your truly beautiful country. We are planning a trip for March 2020 and would love your advise on our itinerary if you are happy to give us some guidance :)

March 31, 2020 at 4:52 am

Amazing…Lovely the natural travel adventure.I love travelling the World and i read the article of the your adventure liked it.

April 1, 2020 at 4:00 am

Thanks for giving the great response

March 19, 2020 at 1:52 pm

It is true that one of the places in the Philippines that you must visit is Ilo-ilo. They have lots of beautiful tourist spots that you must see and experience. If you are the type person who loves sea or island hopping then I suggest that you try Islas de Gigantes. I recommend that you book your stay at Solina Beach & Nature Resort Iloilo because they are near the island plus they can arrange and accommodate everything for you. They will provide transportation going to the port, the boat that will take you to the islands, food, water, towels and someone who will be your guide.

March 26, 2020 at 8:42 pm

thanks for sharing

April 3, 2020 at 4:46 pm

I will really go to Palawan and Siargao after this COVID-19! I miss the view and breeze of beach!

April 11, 2020 at 3:29 pm

The Philippines is a wonderful country no doubt and the pics which you have shared, its outstanding and now I would like to see all these places. but would like to know these places are far from each other or they are close enough that you can explore these places at the same day.

May 14, 2020 at 1:24 pm

Maybe you should add Bacolod too, there are lots of great things to do there and neighboring areas like Talisay City, the Lakawon island, and more.

June 14, 2020 at 4:48 pm

I hope one day, you would be able to feature the following:

1. Sta. Cruz Island (Pink Sand) of Zamboanga City 2. Onces Islas of Zamboanga City 3. Malamawi Beach of the Province of Basilan 4. All beaches in the Province of Tawi-Tawi 5. Dakak Resort in Dapitan 6. Balut island in the Province of Sarangani

June 19, 2020 at 4:19 pm

Hello. Thank you for sharing this beautiful places in the Philippines. 😍 I used some of your photos as a model and i paint it for my Art vlogs. Thank youu ❤️

July 21, 2020 at 12:54 pm

Mayon Volcano is such a beauty. Its perfect cone is surreal! Imagining myself back in Bicol after this pandemic. Love this post!

October 3, 2020 at 1:34 am

thank you for the sharing of the post and informative Data in the post that is helpfull for me

December 10, 2020 at 6:50 pm

I want to thanks for your time for this wonderful Article!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you blog post.

February 27, 2021 at 7:44 am

Most of my friends tell me that the Philippines is one of the best places to travel during summer. For me, traveling is tied in with looking for new experiences. Furthermore, these experiences become considerably more fun when you can share them with an old buddy. Come and visit my article on Top 7 Destinations to Visit During Summer I hope this will guide you as well.

Thanks Nicki

March 25, 2021 at 6:28 am

This article is very informative. It is a valuable piece of information. I wish to now make a travel plan to the Philippines after reading your blog. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

April 22, 2021 at 8:54 pm

Thank you for such a broad overview of the sights in the Philippines. This is the best place not only in your country, but in the whole world. Friends went and were very pleased. Hopefully, the quarantine will end a hundred and we will also come to visit you.

May 20, 2021 at 11:56 pm

February 10, 2023 at 4:25 pm

Very informative. Thank you for sharing. I love the Ube Jam from Good Shepherd and the beautiful view in Mines View Park. Baguio is one of the top tourist spot in the Philippines. I will definitely go back there.

February 14, 2023 at 5:37 pm

Hi Loved this artical and learned a lot I’m coming over with my GF from June 3rd till the 17th thinking of landing in Manila and heading towards Cebu would really love if someone could suggest the best places to hit as I’ve never been before and don’t know the Philippines

50 Most Beautiful Tourist Spots in the Philippines

No words can accurately describe how beautiful the Philippines is. Not to mention that it’s a cheap country to visit. 

But with more than 7,000 islands to choose from, even globe-trotters would be hard-pressed to pick the tourist spots in the Philippines they should explore first.

This guide makes travel planning easier by recommending the best places to visit in the Philippines , what to expect, must-try food and activities, and other vital information to help you decide which tourist spots to include in your travel bucket list.

Disclosure : Some of the links you’ll encounter below are affiliate links. We’ll earn a small commission if you book a hotel or purchase a travel package using any of these links at no additional cost.

Table of Contents

Top 25 best tourist spots in the philippines.

Here are 25 of the most popular Philippine destinations frequently visited by foreign and domestic tourists:

Ideal for: Couples, families, beach bums, adventure seekers

Tourists worldwide flock to the Philippines’ famous beach destination for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear blue water, and majestic sunset. Boracay has never failed to live up to its reputation every year, consistently making it to the list of the world’s most ‘Instagrammable’ places 1 .

After Boracay’s rehabilitation in 2018, beach regulations have become stricter to protect the island. Upon entering Boracay, visitors must present booking confirmation from any Department of Tourism-accredited hotels .

Top things to do in Boracay

• Watch the picturesque sunset at White Beach and Willy’s Rock
• Join a half-day tour around Boracay’s different beaches and snorkeling sites
• Experience parasailing to enjoy a breathtaking view of the island
• Jump off a cliff at Ariel’s Point
• Buy fresh seafood at D’Talipapa and have it cooked in a nearby restaurant

Where to stay in Boracay

Boracay resorts cater to every budget. Luxury hotels are located in Station 1, mid-range hotels in Station 2, and budget hotels in Station 3.

• Best Boracay luxury hotel: Henann Crystal Sands Resort
• Best Boracay mid-range hotel: Sundown Beach Studios
• Best Boracay budget hotel: Chill Out Hostel

How to get there

• The faster but more expensive way to travel to Boracay from Manila is to fly to Caticlan Airport. Then, ride a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port, where you’ll board a ferry to Cagban Jetty Port. From Cagban, ride a tricycle and get off at the drop-off point nearest your hotel.
• The cheaper but slower option is to fly to Kalibo Airport. From there, ride a van or bus to Caticlan Jetty Port and follow the same steps.

Ideal for: Couples, beach bums, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Palawan has so much captivating natural beauty, from towering limestone cliffs and beaches with turquoise water to caves and rich marine life. No wonder travel magazines like Conde Nast 2 and CNN Travel 3 lists Palawan as one of the world’s most beautiful islands.

Palawan’s most popular tourist destinations are Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. Interestingly, El Nido won a spot in HuffPost’s list of the “50 Awesome Solo Travel Destinations to Visit 4 “ for its beautiful beaches and a wide array of boutique hotels and hostels offering excellent opportunities to meet other solo travelers.

Many other hidden beaches on the island are also worth exploring.

Top things to do in Palawan

• Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River , the world’s longest navigable underground river and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature
• Enjoy different water activities (snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, etc.) at El Nido’s beaches and lagoons 
• Dive at Coron Bay to discover diverse marine life and World War II Japanese shipwrecks
• Eat tamilok , a slimy delicacy from branches of mangrove trees
• Join an island-hopping adventure at Honda Bay
• Go scuba diving at Tubbataha Reef, a UNESCO Heritage Site and home to incredible marine biodiversity

Where to stay in Palawan

• Best hotel in Puerto Princesa: Casa Belina Bed & Breakfast
• Best hotel in El Nido: Duli Beach Resort
• Best hotel in Coron: The Funny Lion
• To get to Puerto Princesa, fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa International Airport. 
• To get to Coron, fly from Manila to Busuanga and ride a van to Coron.
• To get to El Nido, fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa. From the airport, ride a van and drop off at the Corong-Corong bus terminal. Then, ride a tricycle that will take you to your hotel. The faster but more expensive way to get to El Nido from Manila is to take a 1.5-hour direct flight via AirSWIFT.

Ideal for: History buffs, foodies, beach bums, adventure seekers

Cebu is home to the Philippines’ oldest city, famous historical places, pristine beaches, and mouth-watering dishes. The island province is foreigner-friendly because locals speak fluent English, and its bustling city teems with hotels, shopping malls, and entertainment halls.

Top things to do in Cebu

• Enjoy an island-hopping tour around Cebu’s nearby islands
• Swim with whale sharks in Oslob
• Experience trekking and canyoneering in Badian
• Witness Sinulog Festival, Cebu’s largest festivity held every third Sunday of January
• Sample famous Cebu delicacies: lechon (roasted pig), danggit (salted dried fish), puso (steamed rice wrapped in banana leaves), and dried mangoes
• Visit Cebu’s historical sites : Colon Street, Mactan Shrine, Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, and Basilica del Santo Niño.

Where to stay in Cebu

• Best hotel in Cebu City: 18 Suites Cebu
• Best hotel in Bantayan Island: Carl‘s Island Inn
• Best hotel in Moalboal: Tongo Hill Cottages
• From Manila, take a 1-hour flight to Cebu. To get to your hotel from the airport, take a taxi or book a Grab ride.
• Visitors from China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea , Taiwan, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, and Dubai may fly directly to Mactan Cebu International Airport.

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, families, beach bums, nature lovers

Bohol is not your typical beach destination. Aside from its white-sand beaches, Bohol has some unique tourist spots in the Philippines, such as the famous Chocolate Hills and Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. Its natural and man-made wonders are also worth exploring.

Thanks in part to the iconic Chocolate Hills, UNESCO has declared Bohol as the country’s first global geopark 5 , cementing its reputation among foreign tourists as one of the must-visit beautiful tourist spots in the Philippines.

Top things to do in Bohol

• Visit Bohol’s top tourist spots on a countryside tour , with a lunch buffet at the Loboc River Cruise
• Explore Balicasag and the Virgin Islands
• Enjoy fresh organic greens and ice cream in a cassava cone at Bohol Bee Farm
• Experience biking on a zipline and other thrilling adventures at Chocolate Hills Adventure Park
• Swim, snorkel, dive, or relax at Alona Beach

Where to stay in Bohol

• Best hotel in Tagbilaran: Sweet Home Boutique Hotel
• Best hotel in Panglao: Henann Tawala Resort
• From Manila, take a 1.5-hour flight to Tagbilaran Airport. To get to Panglao, ride a tricycle, van, or taxi.
• From Cebu, take a 2-hour fast ferry ride to Tagbilaran.

Ideal for: Couples, families, nature lovers, art enthusiasts

The Philippines is world-famous as a beach destination. But there’s more to the tropical islands than just seas and sand. Case in point: Baguio City.

The summer capital of the Philippines may be too commercialized and overcrowded nowadays, but it has not lost its charm. Baguio is still a romantic year-round destination with its cool breeze and lovely scenery of lush mountains and pine trees.

Related: The Fascinating History of Baguio’s Iconic Lion

Top things to do in Baguio

• Stroll along Burnham Park, Baguio Botanical Garden, Wright Park, and Camp John Hay
• Score local goods at bargain prices in Baguio Night Market
• Shop for souvenirs and fresh produce in Baguio Public Market
• Visit the BenCab museum in the nearby town of Tuba
• Join the Panagbenga Festival, also known as Baguio’s Flower Festival, in February or March

Where to stay in Baguio

• Best Baguio luxury hotel: The Manor at Camp John Hay
• Best Baguio mid-range hotel: The Orchard Hotel
• Best Baguio budget hotel: Starwood Hotel

Take a Victory Liner/Genesis Transport/Partas bus from Cubao to Baguio (travel time: 4 to 6 hours).

Ideal for: Surf enthusiasts, beach bums, backpackers

Siargao’s huge and strong waves make it one of the world’s best surf spots 6 . Although the surfing capital of the Philippines appeals mostly to surfers, the island also has excellent tourist spots for beachgoers.

Top things to do in Siargao

• Ride the waves at Siargao’s famous surf spots: Cloud 9, Jacking Horse, Quicksilver, etc.
• Enjoy an epic island-hopping adventure on Siargao’s best islands : Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island
• Explore, cliff jump, or swim at the Magpupungko Rock Pools
• Swim, snorkel, or relax at Sugba Lagoon

Where to stay in Siargao

• Best Siargao luxury hotel: Isla Cabana Resort
• Best Siargao mid-range hotel: Harana Surf Resort
• Best Siargao budget hotel: Mad Monkey Hostel

Fly from Manila to Sayak Airport. To get to General Luna town (where Siargao tourist spots are located), rent one of the vans, motorbikes, or multi-cabs parked outside the airport.

Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, beach bums, foodies

Davao is home to the Philippine eagle (one of the world’s rarest birds), the country’s highest mountain, and the exotic fruit durian. There’s so much to see and explore—from stunning beaches to family-friendly parks—for every type of traveler. Tourists can even book a day tour around Davao City to visit President Rodrigo Duterte ‘s house.

Top things to do in Davao

• Visit Davao’s top attractions, including Philippine Eagle Center , People’s Park, Davao Crocodile Park , and Eden Nature Park
• Dine and enjoy a spectacular view of Davao in Jack’s Ridge Resort & Restaurant
• Trek Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines
• Sample Davao’s most popular fruits: durian, mangosteen, marang, and pomelo
• Join Kadayawan sa Dabaw , Davao’s grandest annual festival in August
• Swim, snorkel, and bask in the beauty of pristine beaches on Samal Island  

Related: 14 Bizarre And Fascinating Philippine Festivals

Where to stay in Davao

• Best Davao luxury hotel: Seda Abreeza Davao
• Best Davao mid-range hotel: Paradise Island Park & Beach Resort
• Best Davao budget hotel: Villa Viva Belgica

Fly from Manila to Davao. Take a taxi or jeepney from the airport to Davao City.

8. Banaue Rice Terraces

Ideal for: Backpackers, couples, nature lovers

Hundreds of years ago, indigenous people of the Ifugao tribe hand-carved thousands of rice paddies in the mountains of the Cordillera, now known as the Banaue Rice Terraces. It’s one of the most prominent tourist spots in the Philippines and is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

When you visit, it’s best to hire a local guide. Go to the Banaue viewpoint for the breathtaking scenery and Instagram-worthy snaps.

Top things to do in Banaue

Aside from Banaue Rice Terraces, there’s so much to do and see in and around Banaue:

• Enjoy the breathtaking scenery at Batad Rice Terraces, Hapao Rice Terraces, Mayoyao Rice Terraces, or Bangaan Village Rice Terraces
• Trek to Batad Village and Tappiya Waterfalls
• Discover the Ifugao culture, history, and arts at Banaue Ethnic Village, Tam-an Village, and Banaue Museum
• Shop for handicrafts, wood carvings, local coffee, and other souvenirs

Where to stay in Banaue

• Banaue Homestay
• Native Village Inn
• Baleh Boble Guesthouse
• Via plane: Take a 1.5-hour flight to Cauayan Airport in Isabela from Manila or Clark. From the airport, take a 3-hour van ride to Banaue.
• Via bus: From Manila or Baguio, ride an Ohayami Trans bus to Banaue (travel time: 9 to 15 hours).

9. Intramuros

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, barkadas , history buffs 

Discover and appreciate the Philippines’ rich history by touring Intramuros, one of the country’s best places to experience the Spanish colonial period. Intramuros is also a romantic setting for a date with its old-fashioned charm. After touring Intramuros, visitors may take a side trip to other equally popular places in Manila: Binondo and Escolta.

Related: The Lost Tunnels Buried Deep Beneath Intramuros

Top things to do in and around Intramuros

• Join a bamboo bike tour of the different tourist spots within the walled city: Fort Santiago, Plaza San Luis, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, etc.
• Enjoy a food trip in Binondo
• Visit Binondo Church
• Marvel at the iconic landmarks along Escolta Street

Where to stay in Intramuros

• Best Intramuros luxury hotel: Bayleaf Intramuros Hotel
• Best Intramuros mid-range hotel: White Knight Hotel Intramuros
• Best Intramuros budget hotel: RedDoorz
• The most convenient way to get to Intramuros from anywhere in Metro Manila is to ride a taxi or Grab car.
• Alternatively, take the MRT to Taft Station and the LRT1 to Carriedo Station . Ride a jeep going to Pier and get off at Intramuros.

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, barkadas , history buffs, foodies

Be transported back in time when you visit Vigan City in Ilocos Sur. Be awed by the Spanish colonial period ancestral homes and structures that make Vigan a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of CNN’s most picturesque towns in Asia 7 .

Top things to do in Vigan

• Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets around Calle Crisologo on foot or a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) ride
• Try famous Vigan delicacies: empanada (pork-stuffed pastry), pakbet (vegetable dish), bagnet (deep-fried crispy pork belly), sinanglaw (beef innards stew), and Vigan longganisa (garlicky and spicy sausage)
• Visit iconic ancestral homes such as Syquia Mansion and Father Burgos’ house
• Join a cruise in Mestizo River to learn about Vigan’s history and marine biodiversity
• Visit an Abel cloth shop to see weavers in action and buy traditional woven products

Where to stay in Vigan

• Best Vigan luxury hotel: Hotel Luna
• Best Vigan mid-range hotel: Paradores de Vigan
• Best Vigan budget hotel: ZEN Rooms Guimod Transient Vigan
• The fastest way to get to Vigan is to take a 1.5-hour flight from Manila to Laoag, Ilocos Norte. From the Laoag Airport, take a 2-hour bus ride to Vigan.
• Alternatively, ride a bus from Cubao, Pasay, or Manila with a direct route to Vigan (travel time: 8 to 10 hours).

11. Mayon Volcano

Ideal for: Backpackers, couples, families, adventure seekers, foodies

Mayon Volcano is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its distinct, perfect cone shape. Aside from admiring the natural wonder, visitors can also experience a unique food trip and adventure in Albay, where the volcano is located.

Top things to do near Mayon Volcano

• Take a thrilling ATV tour around the base of Mayon Volcano
• Visit the Cagsawa Ruins Park
• Eat pili nuts, sili ice cream (made of chili and coconut milk), and spicy dishes cooked in coconut milk, such as Bicol express (pork stew), laing (vegetable dish), and pinangat (fish stew)
• Enjoy street food and a sunset view of Mayon Volcano at Legazpi Boulevard
• Hike up and zipline at Ligñon Hill Nature Park
• Enjoy an unobstructed, enchanting view of Mayon Volcano from Sumlang Lake while riding a bamboo raft or kayak

Where to stay near Mayon Volcano

• Mayon Lodging House
• Balay de la Rama Bed and Breakfast

From Manila, take a 45-minute flight or a 9-hour bus ride to Legazpi City, Albay.

12. Tagaytay

Ideal for: Couples, families, foodies

Tagaytay is a favorite road trip destination because of its proximity to Manila, cool weather, amazing views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano, delicious food, and fun outdoor activities.

Top things to do in Tagaytay

• Visit the top tourist spots in Tagaytay : People’s Park in the Sky, Picnic Grove, Caleruega Church, SkyRanch, etc.
• Dine-in at Tagaytay’s popular restaurants: Breakfast at Antonio’s, Sonya’s Secret Garden, Bag of Beans, Josephine Restaurant, Mushroomburger, etc.
• Visit Zoori to enjoy a wildlife experience and panoramic views of Taal Volcano
• Have a fun-filled day with farm animals and flower gardens at Paradizoo
• Buy delectable tarts and other pastries at Rowena’s Pasalubong shop

Where to stay in Tagaytay

• Best Tagaytay luxury hotel: Anya Resort
• Best Tagaytay mid-range hotel: Quest Hotel
• Best Tagaytay budget hotel: RedDoorz

Ride a bus or shared van bound for Tagaytay/Nasugbu/Calatagan from Manila.

13. Mt. Pulag

Ideal for: Backpackers, adventure seekers, nature lovers

Standing at 2,926 meters above sea level, Mount Pulag is the third-highest peak in the Philippines. It’s also the highest mountain in Luzon. Because of its easy trail and the magnificent sea of clouds surrounding its top, Mt. Pulag is a favorite hiking destination for first-timers. 

Top things to do in Mt. Pulag

• Trek to Mt. Pulag for about 3-4 hours using the Ambangeg trail (for beginners). Advanced hikers can take the Ambaguio or Akiki trail.
• Witness the glorious sunrise and sea of clouds atop Mt. Pulag
• Experience the simple life in the mountains without internet, signal, and electricity
• Meet and interact with the locals
• Buy fresh produce and pasalubong from stores at the ranger station

Where to stay near Mt. Pulag

• Baban’s Homestay
• Newtown Plaza Hotel
• Dream Transient Rooms

From Manila, ride a bus to Baguio. From Baguio, charter a van or jeep bound for Bokod, Benguet, where the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) office is located. Hikers must register, attend an orientation, and pay fees to the DENR before climbing Mt. Pulag.

Outside the DENR office, ride a habal-habal (motorcycle) to the Babadak Ranger Station, the jump-off point where you can book a local guide (required) and a porter (optional).

Ideal for: Solo travelers, backpackers, adventure seekers

Sagada’s tranquil charm and natural beauty make it one of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines. There are many unique places to see and activities for adventure junkies.

Top things to do in Sagada

• See the hanging coffins in Echo Valley
• Explore Lumiang, Sumaguing, or Crystal Caves
• Hike to Kiltepan Peak or Marlboro Hills, watch the sunrise, and bask in the dreamy sea of clouds
• Swim at Bomod-Ok Falls and marvel at the rice terraces surrounding it
• Visit the Sagada Weaving Cooperative to see weavers in action and buy woven products

Where to stay in Sagada

• Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe
• Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge
• Kenlibed In n
• From Manila, ride a Coda Lines bus going directly to Sagada (travel time: 12 hours).
• From Baguio, go to GL Liner Terminal in Baguio Dangwa Terminal and ride a bus to Sagada (travel time: 6 hours).

15. Puerto Galera

Ideal for: Beach bums, backpackers, families, barkadas

Puerto Galera is a favorite beach destination every summer because of its white-sand beaches. If you’re into scuba diving and snorkeling, you shouldn’t miss this tourist spot in the Philippines.

Top things to do in Puerto Galera

• Swim and relax at Aninuan Beach
• Snorkel or scuba dive at Coral Garden
• Experience the vibrant nightlife at White Beach
• Take a carabao ride to Tukuran Falls and enjoy the beauty of this hidden paradise
• Immerse in the local culture at the Mangyan Village

Where to stay in Puerto Galera

• Best Puerto Galera luxury hotel: Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort
• Best Puerto Galera mid-range hotel: Tribal Hills Mountain Resort
• Best Puerto Galera budget hotel: Bamboo House Beach Lodge & Restaurant

From Manila, ride a bus to Batangas Pier (travel time: 2 to 3 hours). Take a ferry boat ride from Batangas Pier to Balatero Port or Muelle Port (around 1 hour travel time). Ride a tricycle to your hotel.

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , beach bums, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Looking for a place to enjoy summer outdoor activities with family or friends? Subic—just a few hours away from Manila—is one of the must-visit tourist spots in the Philippines. Many fun activities and beautiful beaches are available for tourists to enjoy.

Top things to do in Subic

• Explore the top tourist spots in Subic: Capones Lighthouse, Pundaquit Coves, Camara Island, etc.
• See wild animals up close in Zoobic Safari , the only tiger safari in the Philippines
• Enjoy thrilling water slides and attractions at Aqua Planet Waterpark
• Spend a fun-filled day on Subic’s Inflatable Island , the largest and wildest floating playground in Asia
• Cliff dive and swim at El Kabayo Waterfalls

Where to stay in Subic

• Best Subic luxury hotel: Mangrove Resort Hotel
• Best Subic mid-range hotel: Mango Valley Hotel 2
• Best Subic budget hotel: The Circle Hostel

Ride a bus bound for Olongapo from Manila and get off at Subic Bay.

17. Batangas

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , beach bums, adventure seekers, foodies

Batangas has many affordable beach resorts two to three hours from Manila. This makes the province a go-to place for family or barkada summer outings and corporate team-building activities.

Top things to do in Batangas

• Enjoy water activities in Batangas’ most popular beaches: Anilao, Laiya, Nasugbu, Calatagan, Isla Verde, etc.
• Trek up Batangas’ famous mountains: Taal Volcano , Mt. Pico de Loro, Mt. Batulao , Mt. Gulugod Baboy, Mt. Maculot , etc.
• Go scuba diving in Anilao to explore the famous diving spot’s spectacular underwater scenery
• Sample Batangas’ local cuisine: lomi (egg noodle soup), bulalo (beef stew), lechon (roasted pig), sinaing na tulingan (braised fish), kapeng barako (Batangas coffee), etc.

Where to stay in Batangas

• Best hotel in Anilao: Vivere Azure Resort
• Best hotel in Calatagan: Crusoe Cabins Resort
• Best hotel in Laiya: Acuaverde Beach Resort & Hotel
• Best hotel in Nasugbu: Pico Sands Hotel

From Manila, ride a bus to Batangas City/Batangas Pier/Nasugbu. From the bus terminal, ride a tricycle to your Batangas beach destination.

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , foodies, beach bums, history buffs

With its stunning beaches, one-of-a-kind culinary experience, historical sites, and genuinely warm and friendly people, Iloilo is one of the tourist spots in the Philippines where visitors want to keep coming back.

Top things to do in Iloilo

• Feast on Iloilo’s famous dishes and delicacies: La Paz batchoy (chicken and pork noodle soup), pancit molo (pork dumpling soup), fresh oysters, biscocho (twice-baked bread), barquillos (crunchy wafer roll), etc.
• Stroll along Calle Real and see heritage buildings that exude Iloilo’s old-city charm 
• Visit Iloilo’s famous centuries-old churches: Miag-ao Church, Jaro Cathedral, Molo Church, San Joaquin Church, etc.
• Soak up the beauty of Islas de Gigantes and Sicogon Island
• Join the Dinagyang Festival, a religious and cultural festivity in Iloilo City held every fourth Sunday of January

Where to stay in Iloilo

• Best Iloilo luxury hotel: Richmonde Hotel Iloilo
• Best Iloilo mid-range hotel: Urban Sands Iloilo Hotel Resort
• Best Iloilo budget hotel: Figtree Hotel

From Manila/Clark/Cebu/Davao/Hong Kong/Singapore, take a direct flight to Iloilo International Airport. To get to the city, ride a taxi, jeep, or van from the airport.

19. Batanes

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, backpackers, nature lovers

Batanes is every Filipino traveler’s ultimate dream destination. What’s not to love about the romantic island province? From its scenic landscapes and gorgeous beaches to unique cultures, Batanes is worth a visit.

Top things to do in Batanes

• Tour the top Batanes attractions (Tukon Church, Basco Lighthouse, Honesty Coffee Shop, etc.) on Batan Island and Sabtang Island
• Meet the Ivatan people and immerse yourself in their culture. Try wearing vakul , the traditional headgear made of abaca fiber, too!
• Enjoy fresh seafood dishes: dibang (flying fish), payi (lobster), etc.
• Climb Mt. Iraya in Basco, the highest mountain in Batanes

Where to stay in Batanes

• Nathaniel’s Lodge
• Baletin Hometel
• Amboys Hometel

Fly from Manila (via SkyJet) or Clark (via Philippine Airlines) to Basco, Batanes. From the airport, walk to reach the Basco town proper. To get to Sabtang Island, ride a tricycle, jeep, or van to San Vicente port, where you’ll ride a ferry to Sabtang.

20. Camiguin

Ideal for: Beach bums, adventure seekers

This serene and beautiful tropical paradise in Northern Mindanao will leave you in awe with its many natural wonders. Camiguin is among the world’s best dive spots and is recognized by the Department of Tourism as one of the top tourist spots in the Philippines.

Top things to do in Camiguin

• Swim in the crystal-clear water of White Island
• Dive or snorkel at Sunken Cemetery to see its underwater tombs
• Snorkel around the Giant Clams Sanctuary 
• Visit the old church ruins in Bonbon, Catarman
• Hike up Mt. Hibok-hibok
• Take a dip in one of Camiguin’s hot springs and cold springs
• Eat lanzones, a fruit native to the island and is considered the best and sweetest in the Philippines

Where to stay in Camiguin

• Mountain View Cottages
• Balai sa Baibai Resort
• Marianita’s Cottages

From Manila, fly directly to Camiguin via SkyJet. If you travel with a different airline, fly to Cebu first and then take a connecting flight to Camiguin Airport.

Ideal for: Families, history buffs, beach bums, nature lovers

Only a few hours away from Manila, Bataan is perfect for a quick weekend getaway. Although it’s not as touristy as the neighboring Subic Bay, people visit this province for its many historical and natural attractions.

Top things to do in Bataan

• Visit historical landmarks in Bataan: Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) at Mt. Samat, Death March Marker, Fall of Bataan Marker, Bataan World War II Museum, etc.
• Join a walking tour at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar to learn what it was like to live during the Spanish colonial era
• Visit the Pawikan Conservation Center to learn about sea turtles and release baby sea turtles into the sea
• Admire the stunning rock formations and watch the sunset in Sisiman Bay

Where to stay in Bataan

• Best Bataan luxury hotel: Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Hotel
• Best Bataan mid-range hotel: The Plaza Hotel – Balanga
• Best Bataan budget hotel: Vista Venice Resort
• Via bus: From Manila, ride a Victory Liner/Genesis/Bataan Transit bus to Balanga, the jump-off point to Morong and other parts of Bataan (travel time: 3-4 hours).
• Via ferry: Go to the Esplanade Seaside Terminal behind SM Mall of Asia and take the ferry to Capinpin Port in Orion, Bataan (travel time: 1 hour). From Orion, ride a bus bound for Balanga.

22. Antipolo

Ideal for: Art enthusiasts, nature lovers, foodies

Antipolo is the home of the famous Hinulugang Taktak. But there are many other reasons to visit this city near Manila, particularly its hidden gems that will delight art and nature aficionados.

Top things to do in Antipolo

• Go on an off-roading adventure through an ATV ride on the slopes of Sierra Madre
• Pamper yourself at Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa
• Be one with nature at Mount Purro Nature Reserve  
• Visit the Pinto Art Museum and take Instagrammable snaps
• Learn pottery or calligraphy at Crescent Moon Café

Where to stay in Antipolo

• Date and Dine Resort
• The Citywalk Suites Apartment
• LeBlanc Hotel and Resort

Go to EDSA Shaw or Cubao and ride a van or jeepney to Antipolo. From the town proper, ride a tricycle to your destination in Antipolo.

23. Bacolod

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , foodies, adventure seekers

Bacolod is where you’ll meet friendly, welcoming locals—you won’t be surprised to learn it’s called The City of Smiles . Apart from the people, Bacolod’s delicious food, rich history and culture, and natural attractions are the biggest reasons to visit this city. As a cherry on top, Bacolod’s hotel rooms cost an average of ₱2,650, making it the country’s cheapest tourist destination 8 .

Top things to do in and around Bacolod

• Take a morning or late afternoon stroll along Capitol Park and Lagoon
• Visit The Ruins, or the “Taj Mahal of Negros,” in Talisay and discover its exciting story
• Enjoy snorkeling, kite surfing, or kayaking on Lakawon Island in Cadiz
• Join in the fun at MassKara Festival, the happiest and most colorful Philippine festival, in October
• Eat the famous inasal (Bacolod-style chicken barbecue)
• Sample and bring home Bacolod delicacies: piaya (sweet flatbread), cansi (unique soup made up of bone marrow, batuan fruit, and beef shank), pinasugbo (deep-fried and caramelized banana slices), napoleones (layered puff pastry), etc.

Where to stay in Bacolod

• Best Bacolod luxury hotel: Seda Capitol Central
• Best Bacolod mid-range hotel: GT Hotel
• Best Bacolod budget hotel: Mainstreet Pension House
• From Manila, take a one-hour flight to Bacolod-Silay International Airport. Ride a van, taxi, or Grab car from the airport to Bacolod City.
• From Cebu or Iloilo, board a ferry to Bacolod.

24. Dumaguete

Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers

Known as the City of Gentle People , Dumaguete has been recently named the top retirement spot in the Philippines for foreigners 9 . Travel to Dumaguete and discover why the laid-back city attracts tourists and foreign retirees.

Top things to do in Dumaguete

• Tour Dumaguete’s top tourist spots: Dumaguete Belfry, Rizal Boulevard, Silliman University, etc.
• Visit the captivating Manjuyod Sandbar (the “Maldives of the Philippines”) and see dolphins swimming on your way to the sandbar
• Trek around the twin crater lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao
• Climb up Mt. Kanlaon, the highest mountain and largest active volcano in the Visayas
• Eat silvanas and sans rival, Dumaguete’s famous pastries

Where to stay in Dumaguete

• Best Dumaguete luxury hotel: Salaya Beach Houses
• Best Dumaguete mid-range hotel: Acqua Dive Resort
• Best Dumaguete budget hotel: The U Pension
• From Manila, take a direct flight to Dumaguete. From the airport, ride a multi-cab or tricycle to the city proper. 
• From Cebu, take a direct bus to Dumaguete City.

25. Cagayan de Oro

Ideal for:  Adventure seekers, barkadas , families

Up for a physically challenging, unforgettable experience? Travel to Cagayan de Oro City and satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie. Conquer the raging rapids of Cagayan de Oro River—that’s what the Whitewater Rafting Capital in the Philippines is for!

Top things to do in Cagayan de Oro

• Experience whitewater rafting on the Cagayan de Oro River, or take it up a notch with the more intense whitewater kayaking adventure
• Enjoy ziplining or canopy walking in Macahambus Cave, leading to a fantastic view of the Cagayan de Oro River 
• Visit CDO’s historical landmarks: Plaza Divisoria, Plaza de Los Heroes, MacArthur Memorial Marker, etc.
• Have fun rappelling, trekking, ziplining, horseback riding, or biking in Mapawa Nature Park
• Trek from Mapawa Nature Park to Mintugsok Falls, a hidden gem in CDO

Where to stay in Cagayan de Oro

• Best Cagayan de Oro luxury hotel: Seda Centrio
• Best Cagayan de Oro mid-range hotel: Red Planet Hotel
• Best Cagayan de Oro budget hotel: GC Suites

From Manila/Cebu/Davao/Iloilo/Zamboanga, fly to Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro. Take a shuttle or bus from the airport to various points in CDO.

Top 20 Hidden and Underrated Tourist Spots in the Philippines

Aside from its most popular destinations, the Philippines has many equally stunning places waiting to be discovered. 

These off-the-radar places aren’t visited as often because of their remote location or underdevelopment (no electricity, Wi-Fi, mobile signal, shopping malls, etc.). But for travelers who want to visit places off the beaten path, such underrated destinations are simply perfect.

Here are the best up-and-coming tourist spots in the Philippines you should check out:

Ideal for: Backpackers, solo travelers, adventure seekers

Abra is not as famous as its neighboring tourist spots in the Philippines (Ilocos, Baguio, and Sagada). However, the landlocked province has a lot of natural attractions to offer.

Top things to do in Abra

• Visit Kaparkan Falls, Piwek Rock Formation, and Apao Rolling Hills in Tineg
• Trek Mt. Bullagao, the “Sleeping Beauty of Abra,” in Langiden
• Taste the local fare: pancit miki (stir-fried noodles), lechon de Abra , cascaron (deep-fried glutinous rice), palileng (mullet or goby fish stew), abuos (ant egg dish), etc.
• Visit the loom weaving community in La Paz

Where to stay in Abra

• Strutz Art Garden Resort
• Abra Valley Grand Hotel
• Abrassi Hotel and Restaurant

From Manila/Baguio/Vigan, ride a Partas/Dominion/Viron bus to Bangued, Abra. Travel time takes 8 hours from Manila or 2 hours from Vigan. From Bangued, take a jeepney to your destination in Abra.

Ideal for: Backpackers, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Bontoc is the gateway to Sagada and Banaue, two of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines. If traveling there, why not make a side trip to Bontoc for a day or two? This small, quiet town is surprisingly blessed with incredible natural wonders.

Top things to do in Bontoc

• Get a panoramic view of the town and mountains at the Bontoc View Deck
• Trek Mt. Kofafey and witness the sunrise and sea of clouds
• Be mesmerized by the beauty of Maligcong Rice Terraces
• Take a dip at the enchanting Blue Lagoon

Where to stay in Bontoc

• Suzette’s Maligcong Homestay
• Vilma’s Home Stay
• Ridgebrooke Hotel and Restaurant
• From Manila, ride a Coda Lines bus bound for Bontoc or Sagada and get off at Bontoc (travel time: 11 hours).
• From Baguio, ride a taxi to Dangwa Terminal or Slaughter House and ride a D’ Rising Sun bus to Bontoc (travel time: 6 hours).
• From Sagada, ride a jeepney to Bontoc across the public market (travel time: 2 hours).

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , backpackers, adventure seekers, nature lovers

Cagayan V alley’s smallest and youngest province is an emerging eco-adventure destination named after a former Philippine president . Quirino makes up for its lack of beaches through its breathtaking waterfalls, pristine rivers, limestone caves, verdant mountains, and other hidden natural attractions.

Top things to do in Quirino

• Cruise the Cagayan River at Governor’s Rapids in Maddela or Siitan Park in Nagtipunan
• Have an adrenaline-pumping wakeboard adventure at Quirino Watersports Complex in Cabarroguis
• Trek to the different waterfalls in Quirino and take a dip in the clear water
• Go spelunking at Aglipay Caves and other amazing caves in Quirino
• Visit different ancestral villages to experience the cultures of various indigenous tribes 

Where to stay in Quirino

• Capitol Plaza Hotel
• Villa Caridad Hotel & Resort
• Quirino Water Sports Complex Hostel
• Via bus: From Manila, ride a Florida/Five Star/Solid North bus to Maddela, Quirino.
• Via plane: Fly from Manila to Cauayan City, Isabela. From the Cauayan Airport, ride a van to Santiago City. From the terminal, ride a van or jeepney to Aglipay, Cabarroguis, Diffun, or Maddela in Quirino.

4. Jomalig Island

Ideal for: Beach bums, nature lovers, solo travelers, couples, barkadas

Reaching this remote island in Quezon province is an adventure in itself. While that sounds difficult , you’d be glad you took the challenge. The golden sand beaches and turquoise water on secluded Jomalig Island are fantastic—the long trip will be worth it!

Top things to do on Jomalig Island

• Explore Jomalig’s unspoiled beaches: Salibungot Beach, Kanaway Beach, Little Boracay, etc.
• See and take a photo with the Puno ng Walang Forever , Jomalig’s most famous tree
• Visit Lingayen Cove aka Little Batanes
• Watch the breathtaking sunrise at the beach

Where to stay on Jomalig Island

• JoJomalig Beach Resort
• Apple Beach Resort

Take a Raymond Transportation bus from Manila to Infanta, Quezon (travel time: 4-5 hours). Get off at Ungos Port, where you’ll ride a boat to Jomalig Port (travel time: 4-6 hours). Upon arriving at the port, ride a motorbike or habal-habal to your resort.

5. Caramoan Islands

Ideal for: Beach bums, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Caramoan is Bicol’s secret paradise, perfect for beach junkies who want to escape the stressful city life. Fall in love with its fine white-sand beaches, diverse marine life, and other natural wonders that rival the top tourist spots in the Philippines.

Top things to do in Caramoan

• Enjoy island/beach hopping and water activities (kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving) at Sabitang Laya, Gota Beach, Hunongan Cove, etc.
• Explore the caves of Caramoan: Omang Cave, Culapnit Cave, Manipis Cave, etc.
• Hike up Mt. Caglago to get a panoramic view of the Caramoan Islands
• Climb the sharp rock cliff on Matukad Island
• Eat kinalas (noodles in thick brown broth) 

Where to stay in Caramoan

• Tugawe Cove Resort
• La Casa Roa Hostel
• Casita Mia Bed & Breakfast

From Manila, fly to Naga City Airport in Pili, Camarines Sur. Ride a van or taxi from the airport to SM Naga. At the van terminal, ride a van called Filcab to Sabang Port. When you reach the port, take a boat to Guijalo Port. Ride a tricycle to Caramoan town center.

The Department of Tourism recognizes Romblon as one of the emerging tourism destinations in the Philippines. Heading to Boracay soon? Consider taking a side trip to the secluded, laid-back beaches of Romblon for relaxation.

Top things to do in Romblon

• Climb up the scenic Mt. Guiting-Guiting on Sibuyan Island
• Tour Romblon’s hidden gems: Carabao Island (the “next Boracay” 10 ), Cresta de Gallo, Balabara Beach, Bonbon Beach, etc.
• Explore different dive spots across Romblon
• Buy marble products as souvenirs at Romblon Shopping Center

Where to stay in Romblon

• The Beach House
• Romblon Fun Divers & Inn
• Sanctuary Garden Resort
• From Manila, fly to Tugdan Airport in Tablas, Romblon.
• From Boracay, walk to Bulabog Beach and hire a boat to Carabao Island.

Ideal for: Beach bums, nature lovers

Masbate may not be the top-of-mind choice for traveling to the Bicol region, but it does offer a unique experience. For one, you can live like a cowboy in the Rodeo Capital of the Philippines—with its rolling hills, ranch life, and an annual festivity reminiscent of the Wild West.

For nature enthusiasts, Masbate offers unspoiled beaches, marvelous rock formations, stunning waterfalls, and other natural wonders. 

Top things to do in Masbate

• Go scuba diving, swim with manta rays, and see other marine creatures at Manta Bowl shoal
• Revel in the beauty of Masbate’s natural attractions: Buntod Sandbar and Marine Sanctuary, Burubancaso Rock Formation, Sese Brahman’s Ranch, Catandayagan Falls, etc.
• Watch the dreamy sunset or camp out at Mayong Payong
• Experience the Rodeo Masbateño Festival in April

Where to stay in Masbate

• Ticao Island Resort
• Ticao Altamar Boutique Resort
• Sabine’s Place

Take a direct flight from Manila to Masbate City.

Ideal for: Beach bums, history buffs, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Travelers easily overlook Antique because it’s surrounded by top tourist spots in the Philippines (Boracay and Iloilo) . But this quaint province deserves more attention. Being groomed as the next eco-adventure destination, Antique has so much natural beauty and historical and cultural heritage worth visiting.

Top things to do in Antique

• Visit Seco Island, a gorgeous white-sand beach with serene turquoise water and a sandbar
• Enjoy an adrenaline-pumping river tubing activity at Malumpati Cold Spring
• Indulge in a relaxing Kawa Hot Bath in Tibiao
• Trek to Antique Rice Terraces and admire its majestic view
• See Antique’s heritage sites: Anini-y Church, Patnongon Church, Ruins of San Pedro Church, Casa Azurin, etc.
• Check out the Rafflesia , the world’s biggest flower, in Sibalom Natural Park

Where to stay in Antique

• Bugang Riverside Inn
• Phaidon Beach Resort
• From Manila/Davao/Hong Kong/Singapore, take a direct flight to Iloilo International Airport. Ride a van from the airport to Molo Terminal. Then, take a van or jeepney ride to Antique.
• From Clark, Pampanga, take a Philippine Airlines flight to Antique Airport.
• From Boracay, ride a ferry to Caticlan Jetty Port (or a tricycle if you’re coming from Caticlan Airport). Take a Ceres bus to Antique. 

9. Guimaras

Ideal for: Beach bums, history buffs, foodies

Guimaras is another underrated province overshadowed by its neighbors, Iloilo and Boracay. The small island province—famous for growing the sweetest mangoes in the Philippines—is being promoted as an alternative to Boracay because of its white-sand beaches and proximity to Iloilo City. Discover what Guimaras has to offer before it becomes a mainstream tourist destination.

Top things to do in Guimaras

• Join an island-hopping tour of Guimaras’ best beaches: Nagtago Beach, Ave Maria Islet, etc.
• Visit different historical landmarks: Guisi Lighthouse, MacArthur’s Wharf, Roca Encantada, etc.
• See the Smallest Plaza, a Guinness Book of World Records holder for being the world’s smallest plaza
• Feast on mango-based dishes: mango pizza, mango bulalo , mango bibingka , mango beer, etc.
• Buy mango products (dried mangoes, jams, etc.) as pasalubongs

Where to stay in Guimaras

• Czech Beach House
• Jannah Glycel Beach House
• Raymen Beach Resort

From Manila/Davao/Hong Kong/Singapore, fly to Iloilo International Airport. Ride a van from the airport to SM Iloilo, where you’ll hail a taxi or jeepney to Ortiz Wharf. Take a ferry ride to Jordan Port. From the port, ride a tricycle to your resort.

10. Danjugan Island

Ideal for: Backpackers, nature lovers, adventure seekers, beach bums

Danjugan Island is a protected marine and wildlife reserve sanctuary in Cauayan, Negros Occidental. With its lush rainforest and unique biodiversity, Danjugan is indeed a paradise. 

This ecotourism destination won’t just wow you with its pure beauty but will also let you experience a rustic, back-to-basic lifestyle (no electricity and no cellphone signal). It is perfect if you’ll be on a digital detox. 

Most importantly, a short stay on the island will teach visitors the value of environmental conservation.

Top things to do on Danjugan Island

• Appreciate Danjugan’s beauty through kayaking or sailing
• Explore its rich marine life through snorkeling or scuba diving
• Trek into limestone and mangrove forests, beaches, lagoons, and other natural attractions
• See a variety of bird species at the birdwatching view deck
• Watch the sunset at Turtle Beach

Where to stay on and near Danjugan Island

Tourists have two accommodation options when traveling to Danjugan: an overnight stay in an open-air cabana (Moray Lagoon Camp) or a private room (Typhoon Beach) on the island or book a resort outside Danjugan in Sipalay City.

Best Sipalay resorts near Danjugan:

• Punta Bulata Resort & Spa
• Artistic Diving Resort
• Jamont Hotel

From Manila, fly to Bacolod-Silay International Airport. Ride a taxi or Grab car to the South Ceres Bus Terminal. Catch a bus to Hinoba-an from the terminal and get off at Crossing Remollos-Quadro de King. Take a 30-minute boat ride to Danjugan Island.

11. Biliran

Biliran is relatively unheard of, even among Filipinos. Not many know it’s a province (Biliran used to be a sub-province of Leyte before becoming independent in 1992)—much less a tourist destination. 

This small province is brimming with natural and man-made wonders; a weekend getaway is not enough to experience everything it offers. Be in awe of its beautiful mountains, rice terraces, waterfalls, caves, and beaches.

Top things to do in Biliran

• Trek to the photogenic Ulan-Ulan Falls, one of Biliran’s most beautiful waterfalls
• Go island-hopping on Higatangan Island (famous for its sandbar that changes shape and color), Sambawan Island, Dalutan Island, Agta Beach, etc.
• Visit Biliran’s historical and religious sites: Nasunugan Watchtower Ruins, Pilgrimage Site of Padre Gaspar, Almeria Church, etc.
• Discover the mystery of Tingkasan Bat Cave
• Bask in the majestic view of Iyusan Rice Terraces in Almeria

Where to stay in Biliran

• Napo Beach Resort
• GV Hotel Naval
• Via Cebu: From Manila/China/Hong Kong/Singapore/South Korea/Taiwan/Kuala Lumpur/Tokyo/Dubai, take a flight to Mactan Cebu International Airport. Ride a taxi from the Mactan Airport to the port where you’ll take an overnight trip to Naval, Biliran.
• Via Tacloban: From Manila, fly to Tacloban City Airport. Ride a jeepney from the airport to Tacloban downtown, then take a shuttle bus to Naval.

12. Kalanggaman Island

You might have already seen breathtaking aerial shots of Kalanggaman Island online . But viewing such images pales in comparison to personally experiencing the uninhabited island’s white powdery sand beaches and pristine blue water .

Top things to do on Kalanggaman Island

• Enjoy different water activities: swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, banana boat, etc.
• Chill under the trees and mingle with the locals
• Take a side trip to the top attractions in Palompon: Tabuk Marine Park and Bird Sanctuary, Masaba Falls, St. Francis Xavier Church, Lantaw Palompon, etc.

Where to stay near Kalanggaman Island

Kalanggaman has no beach resorts or hotels, but overnight camping is allowed. If you want to spend the night on the island, renting or bringing your tent is your only choice. 

If camping is not your thing, you may book a hotel in Palompon or Ormoc. Here are the best accommodation options for your Kalanggaman escapade:

• Palompon Sugar’s Inn
• Sergi’s Resort and Hotel
• Ormoc Villa Hotel
• From Manila, fly to Tacloban, Leyte. Take a taxi or tricycle from the airport to Vansvans or Duptours terminal. Take a five-hour van ride to Palompon and then a one-hour boat ride to Kalanggaman Island.
• If you’re traveling from Cebu, the most convenient way to access and enjoy Kalanggaman is to join a day tour that will pick you up from your hotel in Cebu, take you to the island, and bring you back to the hotel.

13. Siquijor

Siquijor is synonymous with witchcraft, sorcery, and mythical creatures . But fear not—the small, mystic province is not as scary as you imagine.  

It’s considered one of the emerging favorite tourist spots in the Visayas, welcoming an increasing number of visitors 11 lately. Why is that so? Unknown to many, Siquijor has spectacular beaches, caves, nature parks, and historical attractions.

Top things to do in Siquijo

• Unwind, swim, or swing ala Tarzan into the water of Cambugahay Falls in Lazi
• Explore Siquijor’s best beaches: Salagdoong Beach, Kagusuan Beach, and Paliton Beach
• See the 400-year-old balete tree and have fun taking photos with it
• Visit Siquijor’s historical landmarks: Lazi Church, Siquijor Church, etc.
• Go spelunking at Cantabon Cave
• Trek to Mt. Bandilaan National Park

Where to stay in Siquijor

• RhenMart Inn
• Infinity Heights Resort
• Coco Grove Beach Resort
• Fly from Manila to Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. From the airport, ride a jeepney or tricycle to Dumaguete Port. Then, take a ferry ride to Siquijor.
• If you take a side trip to Siquijor from Dumaguete, you can easily book a day trip to the island . You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Dumaguete, toured around Siquijor’s best tourist spots, and bring you back to the hotel.

14. Bukidnon

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , adventure seekers, nature lovers

Bukidnon is a favorite destination among hikers and adventure junkies; it’s perfect for enjoying Mindanao’s great outdoors and cool weather. The mountain province offers plenty of natural and man-made attractions.

Top things to do in Bukidnon

• Challenge yourself and your travel buddies to extreme activities at Dahilayan Adventure Park: ziplining, free-fall ride, sky jumping, obstacle course, etc.
• Hike up Panimahawa Ridge and revel in the view of mountain landscapes and a sea of clouds
• Marvel at the Hobbit-inspired houses in Mt. Kitanglad Agro-Eco Farm
• Visit Del Monte’s pineapple plantation, one of the largest in the world
• Conquer Mt. Kitanglad, the fourth-highest mountain in the Philippines

Where to stay in Bukidnon

• Eiffel Kubo
• GV Hotel Valencia
• Hotel Valencia
• From Manila/Cebu/Davao/Iloilo/Zamboanga, fly to Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro. From the airport, ride a van to Agora Terminal and catch a bus to Valencia or Davao City, which also passes by Malaybalay City.
• Alternatively, look for a transport service outside the Cagayan de Oro Airport, where you can rent a car or van that travels directly to Bukidnon.

15. Mati, Davao Oriental

Ideal for: Backpackers, adventure seekers, beach bums

If you travel to Davao City, consider adding Mati to your itinerary. One of the oldest towns in the Davao region, Mati will surprise you with the beauty of its famed Dahican Beach—the skimboarding capital of Davao—that boasts of powdery white sand and a laid-back vibe. Some tourists even find it more beautiful than Boracay.

Top things to do in Mati

• Enjoy a majestic view of the Sleeping Dinosaur or hike around the base of the hill
• Take a leisurely walk, relax, and try the famous empanada at Mati Baywalk
• Relax, swim, skimboard, or surf at Dahican Beach
• Visit the Subangan Museum, which showcases Davao Oriental’s historical and cultural heritage

Where to stay in Mati

• Senorita Suites
• Dahican Surf Resort
• Botona Dahican Beach Resort

From Manila, take a flight to Davao. Outside the Davao airport, ride a Bachelor Express bus to Mati. Or take a taxi to Gaisano Mall or Victoria Plaza and ride a van to Mati. Get off at Mati City Bus Terminal and charter a habal-habal or tricycle to your resort.

16. Maragusan, Compostela Valley

Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Dubbed the “Summer Capital of Davao Region,” Maragusan is excellent for tourists looking for an alternative to Baguio and Tagaytay to escape the scorching heat in Manila. Aside from enjoying cool temperatures, you can also soak up the beauty of Maragusan’s waterfalls and mountain landscapes. 

Top things to do in Maragusan

• Trek to and explore Maragusan’s majestic waterfalls: Tagbibinta Falls, Marangig Falls, and Pyalitan Falls
• Climb up Mt. Candalaga, a favorite hiking spot in Mindanao, and be impressed with its flora and fauna and its sea of clouds view
• Witness the P’yagsawitan Festival, a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Mansaka indigenous people 

Where to stay in Maragusan

• Haven’s Peak Highland Resort
• Aguakan Cold Spring Resort
• Kanlawig Hot Spring Resort

Fly from Manila to Davao Airport. From Davao City, ride a bus or van to Maragusan.

17. General Santos

Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, foodies

General Santos City (GenSan) is known as Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao ‘s hometown and the gateway to other provinces in the SOCCSKSARGEN region. But these are not the only reasons to visit this city in South Cotabato. Traveling to GenSan is a must if you love nature and food-tripping. 

Top things to do in General Santos

• Discover why GenSan is the country’s Tuna Capital—visit the Tuna Fish Port, buy fresh tuna, and have it cooked your way
• Join a Pacman “Adventour” to see Pacquaio’s mansions, Wildcard Gym, Pacman Beach Resort, Pacman Farm, The Manny Pacquiao Hotel, etc.
• Trek to Sanchez Peak and enjoy a panoramic view of GenSan
• Have a satisfying culinary experience at different GenSan restaurants
• Take in a stunning view of Sarangani Bay at Sarangani Highlands in GenSan

Where to stay in General Santos

• Best General Santos luxury hotel: Greenleaf Hotel Gensan
• Best General Santos mid-range hotel: Avior Hotel
• Best General Santos budget hotel: Antonio’s Apartelle and Suites

From Manila, fly to General Santos International Airport in South Cotabato.

18. Glan, Sarangani

Ideal for: Backpackers, families, beach bums, adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts

Craving a Boracay-like experience but hate the crowd? Head over to Sarangani Bay, where the quaint coastal town of Glan awaits visitors who will take in its unadulterated beauty. Its powdery white-sand beaches make Glan worthy of the moniker “The Small Boracay of Mindanao.”

Beyond the stunning beaches, there’s more to see and do in Glan and its neighboring towns. Experience Sarangani’s natural wonders, cultural diversity, colorful festivities, and more!

Top things to do in and around Glan

• Chill out or enjoy water sports and activities (swimming, snorkeling, diving, volleyball, etc.) at Gumasa Beach and Isla Jardin del Mar
• Experience Sarangani Bay Festival, the largest beach festival in the Philippines, held every May in Glan
• Tour around Glan to see century-old, American colonial-period ancestral houses
• Get wet and wild on a whitewater tubing adventure along the Pangi River in Maitum
• Paraglide from the mountaintop in Maasim for a breathtaking view of Sarangani Bay
• Take an immersion tour at the Lamlifew Tribal Village in Malungon and discover the weaving tradition of the B’laan tribe, one of Sarangani’s most prominent ethnic groups

Where to stay in Glan, Sarangani

• Kamari Resort and Hotel
• Juanita’s Inn
• King James Hotel

From Manila, fly to General Santos. From the airport, ride a taxi to KCC Mall. Next to the mall is a terminal where you’ll ride a van to Glan. 

19. Sultan Kudarat

Ideal for: Backpackers, nature lovers, beach bums

Sultan Kudarat offers an exciting mix of natural attractions and cultural gems for travelers looking for a great side trip from Davao or South Cotabato. This little-known, underrated province is genuinely worth a visit.

Top things to do in Sultan Kudarat

• See the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Capitol building in Isulan and be wowed by its luxurious, Moro-inspired architecture and interior design
• Visit Baras Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of bird species, in Tacurong
• Have a unique cultural experience at Talakudong Festival (held every September) that highlights the indigenous tribes in Sultan Kudarat and nearby provinces
• Explore the rich marine life and watch the golden sunset on Balet Island in Kalamansig
• Take a relaxing dip at Margues Hot & Cold Spring in Esperanza, Lagandang Hot/Sulphur Spring in Isulan, or Nuling Hot Spring in Lebak

Where to stay in Sultan Kudarat

• King Bayya Residences
• WoodLand Tourist Inn
• EDJIN Pension House  

From Manila, fly to General Santos and then ride a multi-cab or taxi to Bulaong Public Terminal. Ride a bus or van from the terminal to Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat.

20. Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

Ideal for: Culture enthusiasts, nature lovers

Lake Sebu is South Cotabato’s summer capital and primary eco-cultural destination. Tourists visit the charming town for its Instagram-worthy natural scenery (including its enchanting lakes), cool weather, and vibrant indigenous culture. 

Top things to do in Lake Sebu

• Join a cruise around Lake Sebu and immerse in the T’boli culture
• Trek to the Seven Waterfalls of Lake Sebu and ride the zipline, which is the highest in Asia
• Watch how T’nalak, the traditional T’boli fabric, is woven at Lang Dulay T’nalak Weaving Center
• Wear a traditional T’nalak ethnic costume for a photo-op
• Visit the T’boli School of Living Traditions and learn T’boli native dance and music
• Sample different tilapia dishes (fried, grilled, steamed, kinilaw, etc.)

Where to stay in Lake Sebu

• Sunrise Garden Lake Resort
• Punta Isla Lake Resort
• El Galong Waterpark Resort

Fly from Manila to General Santos, then ride a taxi or multi-cab to Bulaong Terminal. Ride a van that will take you straight to Lake Sebu terminal. From the terminal, ride a jeepney or rent a habal-habal to Lake Sebu.

Top 5 New Beautiful Tourist Spots in the Philippines to Watch Out for

More tourist destinations in the Philippines are propping up. President Rodrigo Duterte approved laws declaring several sites in the country as new tourist spots 12 . This means the new tourist destinations will be funded and developed to boost tourism in their respective areas.

Here are the five new attractions in the Philippines that travelers should explore:

1. Mount Bulaylay

Mt. Bulaylay has the longest and tallest zipline in Nueva Ecija , making it the primary tourist spot in Cuyapo town. The local government of Cuyapo plans to develop it into an eco-tourism park.

2. Candon City Ecotourism Zone

Here’s another reason to visit Ilocos Sur besides the historic city of Vigan: a new ecotourism destination in Candon City is in the works. The Ecotourism Zone in Candon houses a sprawling watershed, and the local government hopes to lure tourists by offering recreational activities nearby. 

With the recent opening of the newly built Heroes bypass road in Candon, the city’s tourist spots—including the new ecotourism zone—will be more accessible.

3. Santiago Cove

Ilocos Sur has its version of Boracay in Sabangan Cove (aka Santiago Cove). Like Bora, Santiago Cove boasts white sand and serene, crystal-clear water. Visitors can swim, dive, or unwind while appreciating the beauty of the beach.

4. Pinsal Falls

Another hidden treasure of Ilocos Sur, Pinsal Falls (aka Twin Falls) is an 85-foot cascading waterfall—the largest in the Ilocos region—located in Sta. Maria.

Trek to reach the top of Pinsal Falls. Small jacuzzi-like pools sit above the falls, where tourists can dip into the cold water and enjoy a stunning landscape view .

5. Hinatuan Enchanted River

The Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur isn’t exactly a new tourist attraction, though more tourists have recently discovered it. Still, up to this day, not many people know that this mesmerizing natural wonder exists.

The river is nothing less than magical, as its water changes from aquamarine to blue, depending on its shifting depth. Locals believe that fairies and other mythical spirits protect the river—this adds to the river’s mystical nature.

Tips and Warning

1. never lose your temper when dealing with locals.

Filipinos have a lot of admirable qualities—but punctuality is not one of them. Expect that your flights will be delayed, the food will be served late, the tour won’t start on time, and so on. We have a label for this tardiness habit: Filipino Time .

Lashing out at the flight attendants, waiters, or tour guides won’t improve the situation . You’ll end up wasting your time and energy. Worse, you might become the next viral sensation on social media, like the Chinese tourist who assaulted a cop 13 in a train station.

Be more patient, calm, and diplomatic when dealing with locals on your Philippine trip . You might get better service that way.

2. Pack light and loose clothing

In most tourist spots in the Philippines, the weather tends to be very hot and humid, especially during the summer. Make sure you’ll be comfortable on your trip by bringing clothes that won’t make you sweat buckets.

3. Respect local culture and tradition

Most Filipinos, especially in far-flung places, are conservative. So be careful with what you wear and what you do while vacationing in the Philippines.

Wearing skimpy clothing, skinny dipping, and kissing in public may be acceptable in your home country, but these things can offend the locals and make them uncomfortable. Learn a lesson from a Taiwanese tourist fined for wearing a string bikini 14 in Boracay.

Also, places (like mountains, churches, etc.) and religious rituals are sacred to the locals. This is why researching the destination before a trip is crucial . Be mindful and respectful of the customs in the places you visit in the Philippines. Don’t be noisy and rowdy in sacred places and during rituals.

4. Respect the environment

As a tourist, your role goes beyond just visiting a place. So you can enjoy the place as much as you did the first time you visited , do your share in preserving the environment. This couldn’t be more crucial in the Philippines, where natural resources abound. 

Simple practices—like not leaving trash on the beach, not stepping on corals, and not disturbing marine life and wildlife—prevent harming the environment. Know the guidelines before you go. If you aren’t sure about something, ask your tour guide.

5. Beware of tourist scams

Taxi scams, especially at the airport, often happen to foreign tourists in the Philippines. When hailing a taxi, ensure the driver agrees to use the meter. Otherwise, you might be charged a fixed and steep price.

If the driver refuses your request, wait for another taxi. Book a ride via an app like Grab, Micab, or Hirna.

Also, beware of pickpockets in crowded areas (like malls and markets), jeepneys, and buses. Don’t put your valuables in the back pocket of your pants or backpack. Store them safely in a belt bag or sling bag instead. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. is the philippines safe to visit.

Yes, it’s generally safe to travel to the Philippines. While there are valid concerns about violence due to terrorism and the nationwide campaign against illegal drugs, these are isolated cases that don’t happen in the entire country. 

For peace of mind, read up and follow any travel alert issued by your government. It also helps to research the peace and order situation in the place you plan to visit, not just in the Philippines but in other countries.

As for the Philippine tourist spots featured in this post, rest assured that these destinations are safe to visit. Of course, you also have to do your part in ensuring your safety anywhere you go.

2. Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?

Tourists from most parts of the world can enter the Philippines without a visa for a temporary visit of up to 30 days. Holders of Hong Kong and Macau passports can stay in the Philippines visa-free for up to 14 days. Check the Department of Foreign Affairs website for the list of visa-free countries. However, a visa is required for passport holders of certain countries like China, North Korea, India, the majority of the Middle East, and a few parts of Africa and Europe.

3. When is the best time to visit the Philippines?

When traveling, the right time to visit the country depends on your purpose, preference, or priority. If you want good weather, especially in a beach destination, schedule your trip in the dry season from November to May. The wet season starts in June and ends in October, so avoid this period if you don’t want the rain to ruin your trip.

Looking to experience what it’s like to have “more fun in the Philippines”? Visit during the summer when most festivals and events are held and when beaches are most beautiful. For those who want to avoid the crowd and score cheaper travel deals, avoid the peak season. Christmas, Holy Week, and other holidays and the summer months from March to May are the busiest tourist season. 

The top tourist spots in the Philippines also get crowded with tourists on weekends. While it’s good to visit in the off-peak season, it’s better to schedule your visit in the shoulder months of May to June and October to November for a lesser chance of rain. The rainy season in the Philippines is an ideal time to visit for surfing (as waves are stronger) and visit waterfalls (as the water isn’t dried up). 

4. How many days are enough to visit the Philippines?

The ideal duration of your stay depends on the number and types of destinations you’ll visit. Two to three days are enough to explore a beach destination like Boracay and Bohol. If you visit Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron in Palawan, you should spend more than a week exploring the best tourist spots there.

Consider extending your stay for a week if you have side trips to nearby tourist spots (e.g., Iloilo-Guimaras/Antique trip). Your trip could be longer, lasting for about two weeks to a month, if you’re a backpacker hopping from one island or province to another (e.g., Palawan-Cebu-Bohol trip).

In destinations like Intramuros, Vigan, Tagaytay, Subic, and Bataan, a day trip, an overnight or weekend trip will cover all the best attractions. 

5. How do you get around in the Philippines?

The most popular and cheapest transport options are jeepneys and tricycles.  Habal-habal  (motorcycle ride) is common in the provinces, too. However, if you’re traveling with a group (especially with kids and the elderly), go for convenient modes of transport like taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab (available in certain areas only). These vehicles are typically used to get to the city or town proper from the airport.

You can explore places on foot for short distances and areas where public transportation is almost non-existent. Buses and vans are the common transport choices when traveling from one town or city to another, while boats are used for traveling to different islands or beaches.

To get to a province in the Philippines from your home country, the usual jump-off point is in Manila. For instance, you have to fly to Manila to reach Palawan or Davao.

6. How much money should I bring to the Philippines?

The average daily cost per traveler in the Philippines is around ₱1,500 or less, depending on the destination. Cash is the country’s most accepted mode of payment, so be sure to bring enough for your entire stay, especially if you travel to remote areas that don’t accept credit cards and have no ATMs.

Consider also that travelers can bring up to $10,000 (or its equivalent in another currency) into or out of the Philippines. You can carry a higher amount, though. But you’re required to declare it upon arrival at the Bureau of Customs Desk at the airport. If you don’t, you may be fined or jailed, or your money may be confiscated. 

7. How do I travel for cheap in the Philippines?

The Philippines is one of the cheapest countries to visit, luring budget travelers worldwide. But, of course, you can further save on your travel costs.

Here are some quick tips for cheaper travel to the Philippines:

a. Book flights, accommodations, and tour packages early. b. Fly with budget airlines (the most popular are Cebu Pacific and AirAsia) offering discounted airfare and wait for seat sales when prices drop significantly. c. Travel during weekdays and off-peak season when hotels and tour operators offer significant discounts and other great deals. d. Travel to cheaper destinations like Guimaras, Masbate, Bontoc, and other underrated tourist spots in the Philippines. e. If you can, go for DIY travel and plan your trip.  f. Visit free and cheap attractions like parks and museums. g. Eat at small eateries (locally called  carinderia ), fast-food restaurants (Jollibee and Mcdonald’s are the most popular), and mall food courts. 

8. Can I fly a drone in the Philippines?

Yes, flying a drone is allowed in the country, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). However, specific rules must be followed before and while operating your unit. 

Here are the most crucial drone regulations to keep in mind:

a. Secure a permit from the local government office to fly a drone. b. Fly only in the daytime and good weather. c. Get a Certificate of Authorization from the CAAP if you fly a drone that weighs at least 7 kg. or 15 lbs. or for commercial purposes. d. Don’t fly within 10-km. radius from an airport. e. Avoid flying in crowded areas like markets and schools. f. Fly only up to 400 ft. above ground level.

• Boracay still among ‘most Instagrammable’ places in the world: travel website (2023) ABS-CBN News . Available at: https://news.abs-cbn.com/life/02/02/23/boracay-among-most-instagrammable-places-in-the-world (Accessed: 30 August 2023).
• Talbot, L. (2016). Palawan, the Philippines: The Most Beautiful Island in the World. Retrieved 6 November 2019, from https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-07-13/visiting-the-most-beautiful-island-in-the-world-palawan-philippines
• Smith, J. (2019). 10 of the world’s most beautiful islands. Retrieved 6 November 2019, from https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/worlds-most-beautiful-islands/index.html
• Bologna, C. (2020). 50 Awesome Solo Travel Destinations To Visit In 2020. Retrieved from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/solo-travel-destinations-2020_l_5e13ccebe4b0843d361788c4
• Adel, R. (2023) Bohol named the Philippines’ first UNESCO Global Geopark , philSTAR.com . Available at: https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/travel-and-tourism/2023/05/25/2268942/bohol-named-philippines-first-unesco-global-geopark (Accessed: 30 August 2023).
• Bremner, J. (2013). World’s 50 best surf spots. Retrieved 6 November 2019, from https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/50-surf-spots/index.html
• Springer, K. (2019). 13 of Asia’s most picturesque towns. Retrieved 6 November 2019, from https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/asia-beautiful-towns/index.html
• Purnell, K. (2023) Bacolod ranked least expensive tourist destination in the Philippines — study , philSTAR.com . Available at: https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/travel-and-tourism/2023/04/05/2257110/bacolod-ranked-least-expensive-tourist-destination-philippines-study (Accessed: 30 August 2023).
• ‘Very friendly’ Dumaguete named top retirement spot in PH. (2018). Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://news.abs-cbn.com/life/08/13/18/very-friendly-dumaguete-named-top-retirement-spot-in-ph
• Fuentes, A. (2018). The search for the next Boracay: Carabao Island, Romblon. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://news.abs-cbn.com/life/multimedia/slideshow/05/29/18/the-search-for-the-next-boracay-carabao-island-romblon
• Dagooc, E. (2019). Siquijor tourist arrivals hit record high in 2018. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-business/2019/05/10/1916636/siquijor-tourist-arrivals-hit-record-high-2018
• Corrales, N. (2019). Duterte declares 4 new PH tourist destination sites. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1158790/duterte-declares-4-new-ph-tourist-destination-sites
• Perez, A., & Villaruel, J. (2019). Chinese woman to face charges over viral ‘taho’ tantrum at MRT. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/09/19/chinese-woman-to-face-charges-over-viral-taho-tantrum-at-mrt
• Burgos, N. (2019). Taiwanese tourist fined in Boracay for wearing just a ‘string’. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1176343/taiwanese-tourist-fined-in-boracay-for-wearing-just-a-s

Written by Venus Zoleta

in Juander How , Travel and Leisure

Last Updated August 30, 2023 05:43 PM

Venus Zoleta

Venus Zoleta is an experienced writer and editor for over 10 years, covering topics on personal finance, travel, government services, and digital marketing. Her background is in journalism and corporate communications. In her early 20s, she started investing and purchased a home. Now, she advocates financial literacy for Filipinos and shares her knowledge online. When she's not working, Venus bonds with her pet cats and binges on Korean dramas and Pinoy rom-coms.

Browse all articles written by Venus Zoleta

Copyright Notice

All materials contained on this site are protected by the Republic of the Philippines copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, or broadcast without the prior written permission of filipiknow.net or in the case of third party materials, the owner of that content. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright, or other notice from copies of the content. Be warned that we have already reported and helped terminate several websites and YouTube channels for blatantly stealing our content. If you wish to use filipiknow.net content for commercial purposes, such as for content syndication, etc., please contact us at legal(at)filipiknow(dot)net

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Top Tourist Attractions in the Philippines

By Kay Pierce · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Located at the very eastern edge of Asia, the Philippines are home to more than 7,000 islands, which are inhabited by friendly locals and many indigenous tribes. From pristine beaches and marvelous natural wonders to interesting historic sites and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the Philippines pack many exciting things to see and do. Check out the following top tourist attractions in the Philippines .

10. Tubbataha Reef [SEE MAP]

The Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea is a marine sanctuary protected as the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park. The reef is made up of two atolls, North Atoll and South Atoll, separated by a deep channel of approximately 5 miles (8 km) wide. It has become one of the most popular dive sites in the Philippines because of its coral walls where the shallow coral reef abruptly ends giving way to great depths. The marine park is open to live-aboard diving excursions between the months of April to June when the waves are most calm.

9. San Agustin Church, Manila [SEE MAP]

Located in Manila, a visit to the San Agustin Church is a must see. Built in 1589, this beautiful church has survived seven earthquakes and two fires over the centuries and now remains as the oldest stone church in the Philippines. At the main entrance, there are exquisite carvings on the wooden doors. Inside the lovely, Mexican-influenced interior is designed in the shape of a Latin cross. The gorgeous ceiling was painted in the 1800s by Italian artists, Giovanni Dibella and Cesare Alberoni.

8. Mayon Volcano [SEE MAP]

Rising more than 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) above sea level, Mayon Volcano is significant for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape. Visitors can enjoy a number of activities here such as camping, climbing, hiking, bird watching and photography. A picturesque spot in which to admire Mayon Volcano is from the nearby Cagsawa ruins. Mayon is the most active volcano in the Philippines, having erupted over 49 times in the past 400 years. The most destructive eruption of Mayon occurred on February 1, 1814 bombarding the nearby towns with volcanic rocks. The belfry and what is left of the baroque church that was destroyed by the 1814 eruption can still be seen.

7. Malapascua Island [SEE MAP]

A small island made up of quiet fishing villages, Malapascua Island is popular for its ideal diving spots and for being the only place in the world to see thresher sharks on a regular basis as well as manta rays and hammerheads. The other hidden gems here are the beautiful, sandy white beaches, crystal clear waters bordered by coconut trees and colorful coral gardens.

6. Puerto Galera [SEE MAP]

Just south of Manila is the charming coastal town of Puerto Galera, well-favored for its gorgeous beaches, excellent diving spots and wide diversity of marine species. The most popular beaches are White Beach and Sabang Beach, which also offer nearby shopping, dining, nightlife and hotel accommodation. Another popular attraction is the natural harbor of Muelle Bay with its rows of shops, restaurants and bars. Visitors can also go snorkeling to see some of Asia’s best coral reefs or dive among old shipwrecks and hundreds of fish species.

5. Puerto Princesa Underground River [SEE MAP]

Located on the northern coast of the island of Palawa, Puerto Princesa is a nature lover’s paradise. Home to unspoiled landscapes rich in wildlife, this lovely town also lays claim to one of the world’s most unique natural phenomena, an underground river known as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. Protected within a national park, this natural wonder is the world’s longest navigable underground river. Guided paddle boat tours show intriguing rock formations and fluttering bats.

4. Donsol [SEE MAP]

Located in the province of Sorsogon, a place of pristine beaches, stunning waterfalls and unexplored caves, the sleepy fishing village of Donsol is the place in the Philippines to see whale sharks. The ocean’s gentle giants can be seen between November and June, with the numbers peaking between February and May. Tourists can also take a boat cruise along the Donsol River through mangrove and palm trees, and watch the night light up with millions of sparkling fireflies. If that’s not enough, a traditional shrimp-catching expedition with bamboos and nets, followed by a tasty dinner of the cooked catch is also available.

3. Chocolate Hills [SEE MAP]

One of the top tourist attractions in the Philippines, The Chocolate Hills are unusual geological formations that consists of at least 1,268 individual mounds scattered throughout the interior of the island of Bohol. The almost symmetrical and same-sized formations range from 98 to 164 feet (30 to 50 meters) high and are covered in green grass. During the dry season the grass turns brow, hence the name. There is no consensus on how these giant mole hills were formed. One theory holds that the Chocolate Hills are the weathered rock formations of a kind of marine limestone on top of an impermeable layer of clay.

2. Boracay [SEE MAP]

Boracay may be a small island, but it packs great features such as award-winning beaches, beautiful resorts and great adventures like cliff diving, parasailing, motorbiking, horse riding, snorkeling, kite surfing and scuba diving. If that is not enough, boat tours allow visitors to watch stunning sunsets, explore volcanic caves and remote coves of turquoise lagoons. When the sun sets, Boracay night-life pulsates with many bars and restaurants serving food, drinks and fun until dawn.

1. Banaue Rice Terraces [SEE MAP]

No trip to the Philippines could be complete without seeing the spectacular Banaue Rice Terraces. Carved from the mountain ranges about 2,000 years ago without modern tools by the Ifugao tribes, these magnificent farm terraces resemble giant steps reaching up to the sky. Locals to this day still plant rice and vegetables on the terraces, although more and more younger Ifugaos do not find farming appealing and emigrate to the cities.

Share this post:

10 Best Beach Resorts in the Philippines

10 Largest Islands in the Philippines

How to Spend 2 Weeks in the Philippines: DIY Itinerary

17 Best Islands in the Philippines

10 Best Beaches in the Philippines

8 Most Beautiful Regions in the Philippines

10 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

9 Best Places to Visit in Palawan

11 Top Destinations in Northern Luzon, Philippines

9 Top Destinations in Central Luzon, Philippines

Reader interactions.

September 2, 2018 at 11:08 pm

Why the Batanes were not mentioned as tourist spot of the Philippines. You know the Batanes is one of the most wonderful place in the Philippines where you can relax, enjoy and has a peaceful and hidden beauty.

May 18, 2017 at 2:32 pm

To all the people that look and read these lists, I grew up in the philippines but I lived now in California I go back to Philippines often. I must say and I’ll repeat it again I must say that there’s a hundred hidden gems in the Philippines that most people don’t know you have to know someone that know where to go and I guarantee you, you will be amazed, guaranteed.

March 14, 2017 at 5:49 pm

Batanes is not included? El Nido and Batanes are tied at no. 1 spot!!

February 28, 2016 at 3:01 am

Thank you for sharing the beauty of the Philippines. This may I will be in Donsol to experience whale shark watching. This is so exciting.

June 25, 2015 at 11:42 pm

Been to 6 out 10 places . Haven’t been to ‘Malapascua, Tubataha, , Chocolate Hills and Rice Terraces. I agree with some of the comments here, Coron Island should be included. The places not miss there are the following, Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Barracuda Lake (fresh hot and cold water), you can see the thermocline. Mount tapyas (hill with hundreds of stairs to view sunset). Hot spring (need to pay), and of course Wreck Diving . I have a diving license so this is the place to be. Donsol with Whale shark is also a must see and experience.

April 28, 2015 at 8:06 am

Ive been to 6 out of 10 tourist spots in this list.. But EL NIDO, SAGADA, and GUIMARAS… Are my favorite.

February 17, 2015 at 6:17 am

Nice to see all the beautiful and irresistible places in the Philippines. .Mambukal in Negros Occidental must be here..with its stunning and unforgetable water dripping down..

January 14, 2015 at 6:34 am

Hi guys, thank you very much for sharing all these beautiful tourist spots in our beloved country The Philippines. But you should go and visit Iloilo and Guimaras island too, the beaches there are superb, like Boracay it is also a fine white sands. It is very safe place clean and not polluted. People there are very warm,friendly and sweet. And foods and accommodations there are cheap and really good too, specially fruits and seafoods. You must try to go there because it’s gonna be an unforgettable experience and you would want to go back, for sure.

January 13, 2015 at 12:23 am

the philippines is really blessed.. beaches,natural parks.. WOW! i hope more Filipinos will visit them someday.

January 12, 2015 at 10:32 pm

When it comes to diving, snorkling, and island hopping try Apo Island in Negros Oriental simpy the best:)

December 4, 2014 at 12:17 am

For me , the 1st one that i’ve seen from this 10 top tourist attractions is Puerto Gallera. Also one of the best that I have seen. Wonderful. We went for snorkeling, nice nice nice, want to visit more there…

December 3, 2014 at 1:06 pm

There is a lot more unexplored places you can visit in the Philippines. Imagine having 7107 islands, for sure there will be some small place that you will miss out. One of which is CARABAO ISLAND. A very nice place to visit similar to BORACAY but without the bars. A perfect place for people who wants to have a quiet place to stay.

October 22, 2014 at 8:10 am

Yea. Philippines Rocks! and Boracay is the number 1! I know a tourist attraction in Cebu. They call it “The Sardine Run” and “The Diver’s Spot”. Its called Pescador Island.

September 27, 2014 at 8:09 am

elnido,coron and boracay are the best!

July 13, 2014 at 7:58 am

boracay and elnido are the best!

June 23, 2014 at 6:58 am

Awesome!!!!!!! Philippines is really amazing and has many beautiful places that you can visit! One of the best country in the world 😀 You may also visit: EL Nido, Coron Palawan, Siargao, Boracay, Kawasan Falls !!!!!!!! And many more beaches and falls.You can have Island Hopping also! Awww THE BEST! :))

June 14, 2014 at 9:21 pm

For me?,boracay is the best, not just because it is a tourist destination, but also of white beach,and there are also many ita or negrito tribes.come on visit boracay and explore the beauty.

June 4, 2014 at 11:58 am

U must visit also mindanao part.esp surigao del sur.the tinuy an falls.enchanted river.etc.

May 7, 2014 at 3:13 am

One of the best tourist destination is El Nido and Coron, in Palawan. These 2 destinations are just a small town but what makes makes it unique and different from other places is its natural inviting crystal clear waters in diverse and full of marine life lagoons, caves, lakes and beaches. Priceless experience, tiring but worth it to be in these places.

March 6, 2014 at 1:07 am

Aurora is also one of the best and cheapest place to visit in the Philippines. Province of Senator Angara.

March 2, 2014 at 8:58 pm

Hinatuan river in Surigao del Sur should be there too 😀

January 31, 2014 at 7:13 pm

Thank you for featuring our country, the Philippines. The places included in the list are indeed beautiful, I’ve personally been to 6 of the 10 listed in here, but touring the Philippines need not be limited to these places alone as in almost every province there’s something to see (I haven’t been to every province but given that the Philippines is made up of 7107 islands, there’s bound to be different things to see :D).

As for Paul, the Philippines is not an expensive place to visit, especially if you want to visit the provinces (where most of the places listed are located). There are many decent accommodations that cost 10-15 usd or less (includes meals already). And if you want to slum it, the cost will definitely be cheaper. Most of these accommodations can be contacted via email or through their website, and you can also purchase via booking sites because sometimes they have promo prices. Hope this helps! Have fun!

January 16, 2014 at 7:12 am

Im thinking about going to the philippines but would like to know if its an exspensive destination to visit? Im not looking for glamorous accommodation but something decent, does anyone know what pricing is like? Thanks.

January 8, 2014 at 5:28 am

Wow. Nice list. These are the popular ones but a lot out there are still hidden or unknown to many such a Isla de Gigantes, Palui Island, Calaguas Group of Islands, etc. El Nido and Coron in Palawan ar also worth a mention.

November 25, 2013 at 12:02 am

would you believe that i am from ifugao and i never saw banaue rice terraces.. maybe someday somehow i’ll reach that place

November 17, 2013 at 4:45 pm

I love the Philippines. been There 4 times. My favorite is palawan.

September 25, 2013 at 7:42 am

Absolutely right I’m so proud of our beautiful tourist spots at Philippines mostly Boracay u will be very enjoy the cool ambiance nd if ever u like some cold places u must visit the Bagio the Tagaytay nd others. You will love the veiws of Hundred Islands too! Try to visit also the Cebu, Davao, nd Palawan nd ofcourse the Manila where there’s a Museum ,MOA nd Cavite nd Laguna our historic places!!!!

August 29, 2013 at 4:33 am

CORON is the best! i’ve been there so many times, and planning to go back again… hmmn.., i wonder why it is not here??

July 20, 2013 at 11:09 am

I went to the Philippines in Oct 2012.El nido was stunning i must say,Bohol i thought was well overated.Anopther must see place if you like history is a visit to Corregidor Island,Fantastic Island off Manila,Im going back to El nido in Oct 2013.Might take in Coron this time too and Taal volcano.

July 19, 2013 at 1:49 am

El Nido should be on the list.. It’s a paradise! I’ve seen the chocolate hills but I really didn’t appreciate it.

July 4, 2013 at 5:25 pm

Hi guys, Ive went to boracay. It was a blast. We went diving, Banana boat riding, ate fine seafoods and chilling in the bars at night. What makes it so nice is that filipinos and foreigners are so polite and happy being a part of such place. Day and night the place is so colorful and romantic as well. Hope you all can visit there.

April 25, 2013 at 10:34 pm

i agree. the philippines has lots of tourists spots, especially beaches! 🙂

March 22, 2013 at 12:35 pm

I think the best of Philippines was missed here. I believe that Coron, Palawan is the best to visit in the Philippines. A lot of white sand beaches, lagoon, the Kayangan Lake – the cleanest lake and sunken Japanese warships are great for diving. Here are great places to go in Coron:

Kayangan Lake , Barracuda Lake, Sunken Japanese Wrecks, Coral Garden, Banol Beach, Twin Lagoon, Mt Tapyas, Banana Island, Siete Pecados, Malcapuya Island, Skeleton Reef, Black Island, Caluit Island (Animal Sanctuary), North & South Cay Island.

If you doubt, just google the place i mentioned and it will blow you away…

March 21, 2013 at 11:47 pm

The Chocolate Hills are an example of karst topography. Over thousands of years, the limestone base was dissolved by carbonic acid that was formed by water (rainfall, surface water, underground water) mixed with carbon dioxide. This is also how other similarly awesome topography in the Philippines was formed, e.g., Hundred Islands in Lingayen Gulf, the limestone islets around El Nido, and the Underground River in Puerto Princesa.

Cheers from Manila!

January 22, 2013 at 1:20 am

Yeah, there are so many beautiful places in Philippines. Specially their beaches, I love Boracay white sands and pristine water.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Getty Images

Philippines

The Philippines is defined by its emerald rice fields, teeming megacities, graffiti-splashed jeepneys, smoldering volcanoes, bug-eyed tarsiers, fuzzy water buffalo and smiling, happy-go-lucky people.

Best Time to Visit

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Coron Island

This island, only a 20-minute bangka ride from Coron town, has an imposing, mysterious skyline that wouldn’t be out of place in a King Kong film. Flying…

Nacpan Beach

For an easy day trip out of El Nido, head north by tricycle or motorbike to this incredible, golden-hued, 3km-long beach. Development has arrived in…

This incredibly beautiful, jungle-backed, stretch of golden sand toward the northern tip of mainland Palawan is the centre of El Nido's surfing community…

Mestizo District

The Mestizo District, or Kasanglayan ('where the Chinese live'), is a grid of streets hemmed in between Plaza Burgos and Liberation Blvd and bisected by…

Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary

In Canapnapan, a barangay of Corella, you can see saucer-eyed tarsiers in the wild at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. Over 100 of these territorial…

Fort Santiago

Guarding the entrance to the Pasig River is Intramuros' premier tourist attraction: Fort Santiago. Within the fort grounds is an oasis of lovely manicured…

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

Cebu's holiest church houses a revered Flemish statuette of the Christ child (Santo Niño) that dates to Magellan's time. The church is no stranger to…

San Agustin Church

The San Agustin Church was the only building left intact after the destruction of Intramuros in WWII. Built between 1587 and 1606, it is the oldest church…

Latest stories from Philippines

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Feb 14, 2024 • 8 min read

We asked a pair of passionate writers to make the case for two of Asia’s most fabulous destinations.

Apr 1, 2022 • 5 min read

Jan 28, 2022 • 3 min read

Apr 15, 2021 • 7 min read

Feb 12, 2021 • 4 min read

Nov 5, 2020 • 2 min read

Jan 30, 2020 • 2 min read

Sep 10, 2019 • 7 min read

Aug 2, 2019 • 5 min read

Jul 18, 2019 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Philippines

Philippines and beyond.

Deals of the Week   Mediterranean Magic   Up to 50% OFF

Philippines Tours & Trips

• Philippines Group tour
• Philippines Family
• Philippines Fully Guided
• Palawan Island
• Philippines Adventure

87 Philippines tour packages with 5,170 reviews

Active Beach Camping In-depth Cultural Christmas & New Year +2

Philippines West

"The most incredible tour I've ever been on. Exceeded all expectations." Amy, traveled in July 2023

Active Boat Beach Christmas & New Year +1

Philippines One Life Adventures - 10 Days

"The tours and people who works on the boat tours are excellent at their work! Everyone are doing their best to give you the best experience!" Olivia, traveled in May 2024

Explorer Active Beach Christmas & New Year +1

Philippines Island Hopper

"This tour was incredible and the perfect balance of everything. Recommend her 10000%" Brittany, traveled in June 2023

Health, Spa & Wellness Family Christmas & New Year +1

The Beauty of the Philippines 10 Days

Explorer Family Christmas & New Year +1

Filipino Beaches and Chocolate Hills

Active Beach Explorer

Wanderlands Philippines - 12 Days

"The organisation of the trip was fantastic, every memory I have from the Philippines is a happy one." Kiara, traveled in April 2024

• €145 deposit on some dates

Island Hopping Active

Philippines Island Explorer 13 day

"It was so amazing not having to think about anything thanks to Alex and Sherry. Both leaders just gave constant positivity." Katie, traveled in March 2024

Looking for tours beyond just Philippines?

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Philippines.

Active Christmas & New Year +1

Philippines One Life Adventures - 14 Days

"The tour was great, very well organised with lots of activities included! It is such an amazing way to see different parts of the Philippines and learn about the culture here." Francesca, traveled in April 2024

Explorer Boat Beach Family Wildlife Christmas & New Year +2

A Week In Palawan, Philippines

"Some of the other reviews had issues with the hotels, I actually thought they were quite quality locations."

10 Days Philippine Tour

"The hotels and hotel employees were kind and accommodating. Thank you for a lovely trip!" Mary, traveled in March 2023

Hiking & Trekking Christmas & New Year +1

Ifugao Villages Trek

"Professional, knowledgeable, smart, fun, efficient, caring, all the things a good guide should be." Jay, traveled in August 2019

From Manila to the White Beaches of Bohol - 6 Days Package

Sagada & Banaue Rice Terraces 4-Day Tour

"This is a fantastic tour that is a must-do on your trip to the Philippines! The Ifugao Rice Terraces are simply fantastic, and Sagada is definitely a paradise." Michelle, traveled in May 2023

In-depth Cultural Family Christmas & New Year +1

Cebu & Bohol Discovery 5D/4N

"I felt like a VIP guest. This is the best way when you travel alone for the 1St time." Géraldine, traveled in October 2017

• 10% deposit on some dates

Explorer Active Family Christmas & New Year +1

Palawan Getaway 5D/4N

"Palawan is beautiful and I didn't want to leave. El Nido was gorgeous and in my opinion better than Puerto Princesa." Hayley, traveled in March 2018

What people love about Philippines Tours

AJ our tour guide was amazing

This was a fantastic tour that summed up the best parts of the Philippines, would highly recommend to any travellers wanting to have a taste of the Philippines with great activities, food and cultural experience. Couldn’t have got a better tour guide either(named Aileen) who was super helpful, kind and left no questions unanswered.

Such an incredible experience! We saw and did so much on this tour, I’m not sure would have been possible on my own. Gema was such an incredible tour guide- kind, funny, inspiring, inclusive, helpful, etc. You can feel just how passionate she is about helping the communities we traveled to as well. Could not recommend this tour or Gema more ❤️

Top operators

"Our guide was fantastic. If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t have had the okay experience that I did VJ is a gem and I am sure you do not pay him enough as everything else on the tour was done in a cheap fashion

TruTravels is an expert in:

"This was a fantastic tour that summed up the best parts of the Philippines, would highly recommend to any travellers wanting to have a taste of the Philippines with great activities, food and cultural experience. Couldn’t have got a better tour guide either(named Aileen) who was super helpful, kind and left no questions unanswered.

One Life Adventures is an expert in:

Vio Travel is an expert in:

• Health, Spa & Wellness

Philippines Destinations

• Luzon Island (33)
• Palawan Island (27)
• Cebu Island (5)

Travel Styles

• Small Group (35)
• Budget (23)
• Singles and Solo (52)
• For Couples (16)
• Young Adults (12)
• Seniors (11)
• Explorer (47)
• Family (47)
• Personalized (46)
• Fully Guided (45)
• Private (42)
• Partially Guided (27)
• Active (26)
• Self-Guided (17)
• In-depth Cultural (10)
• Intl. Flights Included (7)
• 3 Day Tours (14)
• 7 Day Tours (15)
• 10 Day Tours (16)
• 2 Week Tours (15)
• 3 Week Tours (7)
• Summer 2024 (52)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (63)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (60)
• Spring 2025 (43)
• Spring 2026 (5)
• June 2024 (46)
• July 2024 (43)
• August 2024 (46)
• September 2024 (53)
• October 2024 (56)
• November 2024 (58)
• December 2024 (56)
• January 2025 (44)
• February 2025 (43)
• March 2025 (41)
• April 2025 (36)
• May 2025 (33)

Philippines Tours starting in

• Starting in Manila (41)
• Starting in Cebu City (9)
• Philippines Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Philippines Itineraries 2024/2025 (With Reviews)

Discover TourRadar

• Australia Tours
• Sailing in Turkey
• 3 day Kathmandu tours
• Deep Rainforest Expedition to Lagartococha & Zancudococha
• 8-Day Tour to Andalusia and Relaxation on Costa del Sol
• La Belle France: Paris & Normandy (Paris - Paris)
• Annapurna Trek and Chitwan Jungle Safari

Where to Go in The Philippines: The Perfect Itinerary

04/10/2023 by The Wanderlovers 66 Comments

It’s tough to think of a more beautiful corner of the world than the Philippines, with white sand beaches, bath-temperature water, and incredibly friendly locals.

These islands, 7,107 of them to be exact, are worth a departure from the typical banana pancake trail in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam! The beaches are regarded as some of the best in the world, as are the diving opportunities, and the welcoming nature of the Filipino people is unwavering.

But with so many islets to choose from offering up various culture, adventure and culinary delights, where do you even start to plan an itinerary and figure out where to go in the Philippines? Well luckily enough, Charlotte and I have spent roughly two months in the Philippines and have wrapped up our experiences into one neat little package below. Let’s get to planning your perfect Philippines itinerary:

It’s likely that you’ll begin your journey in the capital, Manila. A city bustling with people, Spanish colonial architecture, street vendors and Jeepneys.  Many travellers use Manila simply as a gateway to other destinations in the Philippines but we would recommend spending at least a day there in preparation for the rest of your adventure. It will also give you enough time to purchase your bus ticket to the North of Luzon, acclimatize, and sample street food like quack quack (battered quail egg) and caramelized bananas.

Quick Tip: Take a Jeepney ride for as little as 10PHP to a random destination in town. Just get off where you feel spontaneous!

Stay:  Book your Manila stay here .

North Luzon (Banaue / Batad Rice Terraces)

North Luzon is very much overlooked in the Philippines with travelers opting for pristine white beaches and crystal cobalt seas instead. However, we would highly recommend a trip into the mountainous region for a glimpse into the World of the local rice farmers and stunning craggy landscapes. The UNESCO Banaue rice terraces are a key highlight of any trip to the North.

Top Tip: Most travelers visit Banaue due to the UNESCO title stamped across its name, however just an hour up the road (or up the mountain) lie Batad rice terraces which are just as beautiful and have far fewer tourists.

An overnight stay will allow you to live like the locals in a traditional stilt house built into the terrace. A trek to a neighboring waterfall is also on the agenda here and highly recommended! Wear a bathing suit and take a dip!

How To Get There: Overnight buses such as Ohayami run from the Sampoloc area of Manila for $19, which can be purchased a day in advance or on the day of (subject to availability). They leave at 9pm.

Stay: Batad Transient House (traditional stilt house) for just $11 with a delicious breakfast!

Home to the infamous hanging coffins, the Igoret tribes of the North have long practiced burying their dead in coffins nailed against the side of cliffs, believing they will be closer to heaven.

This tradition is slowly dying out, so this is a rare chance for a deeper glimpse into traditional tribal life. You can hop off at Sagada on a return bus trip to Baguio from Banaue.

Quick Tip: Sagada has VERY limited ATMs and the one we did find had zero money, resulting in frantic phone calls home to wire money to Western Union Transfer! Take enough cash for your trip to Sagada.

Stay:  Book your Sagada stay here .

Baguio City (Mount Pulag)

No trip to North Luzon is complete without visiting its highest peak at 2,926m above sea level. If that sounds like too much trekking for some then do not fear! Most of the journey is done by Jeepney to a mountain village where you stay overnight in a local house before taking on the summit in the early hours. In total the trek takes approximately 4-6 hours after reaching the village with a couple of rest breaks before reaching “the sky of clouds”.

Quick Tip: Most tour operators will drop you back at Manila providing you advise that you want to be dropped off here INSTEAD of returning to Baguio. If you follow this itinerary chronologically, this is ideal as we’ll be flying down south next.

Go With:   Mount Pulag Adventures

Stay:  Book your Baguio City stay here .

Siargao must be one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, and it’s the country’s surf capital. This island has a super laidback vibe, great snorkeling options, and island hopping excursions including the famous Sugba Lagoon. Located in the Mindanao region of the Philippines, Siargao is a laid-back paradise that’s just starting to explode onto the traveler scene. Read more about all the best thing to do in Siargao here. 

How To Get There: Fly directly into Sayak Airport (IAO), or take a ferry from Surigao del Norte.

Stay:  Look at General Luna and Pacifico. Book hotels here .

Boracay 

A small island in central Philippines, Boracay is the top tourist draw of the Philippines, and for good reason! White beach takes center stage framing a 4km slice of paradise, once voted the best beach in the world! An array of restaurants, resort accommodation and bars feature heavily along the main beach stations, while the back beach offers perfect conditions for water sports. Bar crawls, cliff jumping and ATV tours are all on offer here!

Quick Tip: We recommend spending 3 or 4 nights in Boracay. Once you have partied your way through the island it will probably be time to move on anyway!

How To Get There: Fly or ferry. We took the overnight ferry to save on accommodation and boarded from Batangas (reachable by 2 hour air conditioned bus from Manila). Ferries should be booked a few days in advance with 2GO Travel and they depart from 9pm and sail overnight to the port of Caticlan for $19 arriving at 7am dependent on sea conditions. From here passengers take a 10 minute boat across to the island.

Stay: Hostel Avenue is the only beach front hostel in Boracay opened 2017 for $17, located on White Beach.

Romblon Island

For a more local island experience, we highly recommend checking out Romblon Island . The feature of the island includes Bon Bon Beach, a sandbar that appears during low tide, and several gorgeous beaches with some of the bluest waters you will see in all of the Philippines. You might be one of the very few foreign tourists on the island, and after a couple days, you will come to find that everyone now know your name. It’s a long journey getting to the island, but we promise it’s worth it!

How to get there : Fly from Manila to Tugdan Airport in Tablas (TBH) and taking a jeepney, trike, or van to San Agustin. Cebu Pacific operates this flight 3 days per week.

Stay : Tinaoog Beach Resort

Located in the province of Palawan, Coron is where you will find those Insta perfect dragon-esque landscape rock formations that penetrate the skies and inhabit turquoise lagoons below them. THIS is one of the reasons we first put the Philippines on our bucket list and trips to Barracuda Lake (fresh water lake), Kayangan Lake and the small and big lagoons are an absolute must on your visit here and can be booked one day in advance in the main town. Coron is also dubbed as the shipwreck capital of the World due to a large number of sunken Japanese vessels all within a 20-minute boat ride of the main town.

Quick Tip 2023: Coron town is quaint and buzzing with other travelers. To avoid the crowds and have an immersive, unique experience, join the Big Dream Boat Man Coron island life expedition , and spend 3 days venturing outside of the typical spots around Coron. It’s a truly unforgettable adventure we cannot recommend enough!

How To Get There: For approximately $90 we opted to fly from Caticlan (Boracay) to Coron and boy was it worth it! Boarding a small 12 seater Air Juan plane from Boracay you can swoop across the archipelago of the Philippines marveling at the tiny, Maldives like islets beneath you. A highly recommended way to see the Philippine landscape in all its glory!

Stay: Click here for a list of the best places to stay in Coron.

Sticking with Palawan, El Nido is the next obvious destination to go to in the Philippines to get your jaw dropping landscape fix! The town is a traveler’s paradise, housing an array of budget accommodation, charming restaurants and bars and also ample diving opportunities. Take an island hopping tour, inclusive of small and big lagoons, 7 Commandos Beach, Snake Island and Cudugnon Cave. Tours start from around $26 inclusive of three or four destinations, oh and lunch is included too. Sold!

Go With:   Big Dream Boat man runs 4D3N expeditions between Coron and El Nido.

Stay:  Click here for a list of the best places to stay in El Nido.

Our visit to Cebu was mainly focused around one sight in particular, Kawasan Falls. This picturesque waterfall that plummets into the turquoise lagoon below has quickly become an instagram favorite and when you see it, you’ll understand why! We would highly recommend getting there early to avoid the crowds.

The falls can be easily accessed from the main entrance. Take a tricycle from your guesthouse and they will already know where you want to go!

Quick Tip: For the more adventurous traveler and for an alternative way in to the falls, opt for a canyoneering experience where you will be thrilled with 2-10m cliff jumps into the azure waters below. Taking a dip in such mesmerizing waters is highly recommended in any case, but to do it all with a rush as you jump and jolt from the limestone cliffs above is all the more exhilarating! Your experience ends at Kawasan Falls; the perfect end to such an adventure.

How To Get There: Vans regularly leave from the town of El Nido to Puerto Princesa every hour directly to the airport. You can choose to either explore Puerto Princesa or fly directly to Cebu.

Go With: We opted to canyoneer with Highland Adventures and found them to be reliable with all safety measures and equipment in place.

Stay:  Book your Cebu stay here .

Swimming with whale sharks in a natural environment is a dream of many. In the Philippines, you can realize this dream in Oslob or Donsol. Based on our research and testimonials from people who have visited both places, Donsol makes a better choice, though it is still far from perfect. Be My Travel Muse generally does not support animal encounters that alter the animal’s natural behavior. As it was part of the writer’s experience in the Philippines, we felt remiss to leave this off of the itinerary. This article is here to provide information rather than encourage you to participate. 

Donsol, located in Luzon in the northern Philippines, is a protected area for whale sharks, and its eco-tourism has an ethical reputation with strict regulations monitored by WWF and marine experts. Visitors count on their luck to have an encounter with whales sharks, but there is a higher chance of spotting them during the whale shark season from November – February. No food or bait is used to lure the whale sharks, and according to the regulations stated, only 6 people are allowed in the water in the presence of 1 whale shark. That being said, Donsol is far from perfect. A common complaint from visitors is that they allow way more people in the water than stated, and a few people said that visitors were allowed to get closer to the whale sharks than advised.

First Name:

We swam with whale sharks in Oslob as part of a tour we were doing. Although we were not 100% happy to swim with whale sharks while they are being fed, they are indeed some of the most beautiful creatures we have ever laid eyes upon, as they graciously swoon in the waters collecting fish that are being served for them. We caved into the experience here as we justified the experienced based on the sharks being allowed to come and go as they please, but we do not recommend doing this in Oslob.

Tourism activities involving wild animals will never be perfect. However, the rise of eco-tourism in both Oslob and Donsol has successfully kept whale sharks from being killed by local fishermen, as live whale sharks now provide more money, opportunities and therefore a better life for the locals. Do your part, research carefully and make a conscious, respectful decision. As tourists, we vote with our dollars – our behavior could dictate the fate of the wild animals. More ethical alternatives where the sharks are not being fed include the Bay of Los Angeles in California, the Maldives , Mozambique , and many others depending on the season.

Often referred to as ‘Siquihorror,’ Siquijor in the Central Visayas Region is known as the mystical island. It’s a small island full of shamans, witches, and magic. Most tourists go for the dreamy waterfalls and the laid-back atmosphere, but locals will often pay a visit to Siqujor in search of love potions, or with the intention of casting a curse on someone, or getting one reversed if they fear one has been casted on them.

It’s a friendly place that you can see most of within just a few days. Read more about it here.

Getting there: The easiest way to reach Siquijor is to fly into Dumaguete and then take a ferry over to Siquijor. Ferries leave multiple times per day and only cost a few dollars.

Stay: Coco Grove

Bantayan Island

An off the beaten path island that is often overlooked by many taking the main tourist trail but conveniently located north east of Cebu. Still a hidden gem, locals will welcome you into their guesthouses with open arms for you to explore powdery, undeveloped white sand beaches, local cafes, fish markets and of course skydiving! Yes, you read that correctly, Bantayan island is home to the only place to skydive in the Philippines and of course we had to try it!

Quick Tip: Although we were there largely to skydive, Bantayan ended up one of our favorite destinations in the Philippines due to the untouched landscape, local food, secluded sands, and of course the friendly Filipino people. Take a bike ride between Santa Fe and the neighboring village and stop off at the local cafes (which are essentially villages houses) and take in the local life sipping on cheap, cold beer. You can thank us later!

How To Get There: Take a taxi to Cebu North bus terminal. Board a bus to Hagnaya (3 and a half hour from Cebu City for $3.62). At the Hagnaya terminal boats to Bantayan island leave every hour up until 4pm and cost $3.85.

Stay:  Book your Batayan Island stay here .

Visa Requirements

Always check your visa requirements before entering the country but for most, you can enter the Philippines without a visa for up to 30 days, providing you have evidence of onward travel.

Extending your visa is a simple enough procedure however. You can apply to do so at the Bureau of immigration to allow 59 days. We would recommend not doing this in Manila and opt to extend on one of the smaller islands such as Boracay as the procedure is much more simple and a lot quicker.

Getting around: Luckily, travel in and around the Philippines is relatively inexpensive, though may require some forward planning.

Buses: Many destinations within provinces can be reached by bus, especially in the North and at short notice too should there be availability. All are air conditioned, cheap and some even provide a snack! We recommend an overnight bus as the perfect way to save on accommodation while getting from A to B. What’s not to love!

Jeepneys: Do take a Jeepney when possible! Not only is a good way to sample local transport in a pimped out American armored vehicle but it is also cheap too.

Boats / Ferries: Given the Philippines has some 7,000+ islands, this should be no surprise. Many online agents provide bookings in advance (1 or two days is sufficient) and overnight ferries in particular are comfortable and air conditioned depending on class. You can also buy tickets directly at the port to save on fees, but during holidays expect to have to wait a few days to be able to book!

Flights: Flying between provinces isn’t actually as expensive as it first sounds, should you fly at the right times and between the right destinations. It also allows you to see the archipelago from above too! We think that’s worth the money all by itself.

Taxis: Many city provinces such as Manila and Cebu have taxis, however the cheaper alternative is a tricycle (motorbike with side cart). Tricycles are a great way to zip around and are also considerably cheaper than taxis. Always ask to journey on the meter and it is always worth researching how much they should charge per km to avoid overpricing.

So have you fallen in love with the Philippines yet? These secluded white slices of sand, the clearest waters in the world, the culinary local delights, and the spirit of the Filipino people all make this country one of our favorites in the world. All this, coupled with the relative  cheapness  to many other similarly beachy destinations and ghe ease of getting around makes it an absolute must visit!

We hope this helped you put together an itinerary and figure out where to go in the Philippines, but please feel free to ask any questions you have in the comments below. About the Authors:  Charlie and Charlotte are the wanderlusting couple behind The Wanderlovers. They have swapped their city life in London for an action packed journey across the globe. Hand in hand, they’re taking on one country at a time and creating a life they don’t wish to escape from! Through their couple’s travel and lifestyle blog they hope to inspire future travellers that anything is possible if you just buy that one way ticket … Go Live!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

06/22/2018 at 3:11 am

You missed Legazpi and the Mayon Volcano in Albay.

Kristin says

06/22/2018 at 7:20 am

Good to know! I need to go back 🙂

Michelle says

06/22/2018 at 2:39 pm

I was wondering whether this is all in order?

I’m planning to follow your itinerary but would skip Manila and Boracay

06/22/2018 at 10:15 pm

We’ve moved from north downwards, but generally to access most of these you’ll go somewhere bigger then ferry or fly over to the other spots. Manila and Coron will be the most major hubs 🙂

Darrell says

08/28/2019 at 10:07 am

Boracay is nice but a little crowded nowadays. I wonder if the Spider House is still open.

daniel says

06/27/2018 at 6:33 am

im planing to go to the philippines next year for around 22days. how can i plan it? i was thinking, that when i arrive in manila, i wanted to go to luzon, mt pulag. best way by bus? and at night? any thoughts? and than i wanted to go palawan, boracay. and other places. can you help? thanks.

06/27/2018 at 6:55 am

I’d do a combo of buses, flights, and ferries.

07/16/2018 at 5:49 pm

Hi there! May I know how much did you roughly spend for 2 pax for this entire trip? Also what month/s did you go?

07/17/2018 at 1:00 am

I’ve been there twice, usually I can keep my spend under $1500/month there not including flights. I have a budget here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/cost-of-traveling-in-philippines/

09/06/2018 at 11:09 pm

If you had only 3 days to spend in the Philippines (I know it’s too short but this is just a stop on my way home from a business trip D:), what would you say the most efficient way to spend it? All of it just looks so cool!!!

09/07/2018 at 2:01 pm

I’d pick one place and enjoy it as much as possible! Perhaps Cebu? It’s got a major airport and some beautiful things to see on the island.

05/30/2019 at 8:23 am

dont spend just 3 day. the trek is really long from canda/us and the time change is too much for just 3 days

Kimi Soni says

10/28/2018 at 11:25 pm

Thank you so much for this!

Gilbert says

12/13/2018 at 11:17 am

To add Chocolate Hills in Bohol 🙂

Kim Hollingshead says

01/07/2019 at 6:14 am

II’m disappointed you are including the whale shark swimming at Oslob. While the post acknowledges that the whale sharks are fed there, it doesn’t make it sound as serious as it is. Feeding the whale sharks is harmful for their nutritional needs and disrupts their migratory patterns. I hope you consider changing this post to discourage people from doing this activity there!

03/25/2019 at 2:31 am

Drama queen

Olivia says

12/21/2019 at 10:56 pm

think about the livelihood of these animals and dont call Kim a drama queen.

shaylee says

01/30/2019 at 12:22 am

Hi, i’m travelling a short trip to Philippines in March2019 for 4days 3 nights, from Thursday to Sunday. I will be in Manila on Thursday night and Friday. Planning to travel outskirt on Sat and back Sunday as flying off on Sunday evening… Please advise how should I plan my itinerary. Any recommend? thank you.

nestor dofredo says

10/28/2019 at 5:28 am

such a short time but really, after arriving in Manila , you should arrange or get a flight right into Palawan, Puerto Princessa (is the capital)., from there straight to El Nido it will be a 5 hours drive but scenic view, you can fly straight to El nido from Manila pricey , it is a private airport and airplane to save precious time. .Spend a night and two days for Island hoping, snorkeling and enjoy the old town of El Nido, it is the foothill of granite mountain/ volcanic rock amazing place. White sand, Clear blue water beaches. Enjoy..

02/03/2019 at 7:16 am

How many days did you spend in the Philippines? or how many days would you recommend to be able to follow this itinerary if we were miss a couple of the islands out? we probably would be in the Philippines for no longer than 30 days, would this be enough?

02/05/2019 at 8:33 pm

I would say about 30 to do this itinerary though it would feel a bit rushed if you didn’t cut one or two things out.

Denise says

03/11/2019 at 9:28 am

Hey! Thank you for this helpful blog. I will be there in April for 2,5 (16 days) weeks. Firstly, we fly to Cebu. But afterwards, we can’t decide. We have several places on our favorite list: El Nido or Coron, Boracay, Bantayan Island and Siargao. Beside spending the last 2-3 days in Cebu, which ones would you say is a must do?

03/13/2019 at 11:47 am

Siargao and coron I think 🙂

03/12/2019 at 1:20 pm

hi I’m planning to go to philipin,me as single women and my 16 year old doughtier pls advise the itinerary u give above is safe for as?, and do we base in manila and go to all this place or book different places pls advice best things for me and my 16 year can do. thank you

03/13/2019 at 12:04 pm

This is still a great itinerary! You can start in Manila but these are all different places so you’ll need to move from island to island.

Manuel says

03/25/2019 at 1:15 am

Hello Kristin,

I’m trying to book the Coron to El Nido 4 day tour with Buhay Isla expeditions as you recommended above but I’m having trouble contacting them. I called, emailed and FB messaged them but no response. I’m wondering how you booked your excursion with them. Any suggestions would be helpful.

03/27/2019 at 11:09 am

Strange! How long has it been?

04/19/2019 at 3:33 pm

Im truly disappointed that this itinerary includes the whale shark swim at Oslob while it is scientifically proven the negative impact of this tourist activity on these gentle giants. I always thought BeMyTravelMuse was about sustainable tourism. Please please take that bit out of this text.

04/20/2019 at 3:32 am

I agree actually, we’d debated if we should include this because I don’t like that they’re fed either. I know that there are other opportunities in the Phils to swim with them but I haven’t done them. Have you? I’d like to replace this with something more sustainable. If anyone has ideas and/or has tried another spot LMK!

04/22/2019 at 3:04 pm

I’m actually kind of relieved that you agree. I was ready to bring more reasons on how them being fed affects their diet and affects their migratory behaviour which in turn has an adverse impact on the ocean’s eco-system. But I will refrain from those now! 🙂 I know there are opportunities to do the whale shark swim in Donsol. The closest access point will be Legazpi. I haven’t done this since there was just not enough time during our trip to philippines. I used to dream about swimming with them and passing on the opportunity to swim with them in Cebu was one of the hardest decisions we made. We will swim with them one day and I will see how giant these gentles are. But I want that day to be eco-friendly and for us not to harm our Planet.

04/23/2019 at 6:46 pm

I asked a friend and he also said Donsol! I’m going to do some research and replace Oslob with Donsol – give me a few weeks I’m on the road in the PH now and the internet isn’t always the best!

Anonymous says

06/03/2019 at 4:24 pm

Did you read the part where the locals no longer kill the Whale Sharks now because of the tourists? Better they feed them than feed on them.

04/24/2019 at 3:58 am

Sure thing! Thanks Kristin! Enjoy PH! 🙂

05/25/2019 at 2:09 am

I m planning 5 to 7 days trip for 2 people. And all i want to cover is cebu and palwan. Can both places be covered in 7days? And what will be the approximate expense?

05/25/2019 at 11:28 am

I wouldn’t say all of Palawan is doable in 3-4 days but maybe just El Nido or just Coron, and price totally depends on what kind of accommodation you choose, how you choose to travel between places and what you spend on activities.

Jose and Rachel says

06/23/2019 at 5:22 am

Hi we are planning to travel in August to the Philippines as a family 2 adults 2 children (12 and 6 yrs). Not any ideas yet, but enjoyed reading your blog. Just wondering which places (preferably beach) are good for families? Thank you 🙂

06/23/2019 at 9:44 am

Hi guys, I think anywhere can be great for families, it just depends on how many tourist amenities you want and what you wish to do in each place. I’ve seen families in quite secluded spots and the touristy spots.

08/07/2019 at 5:11 am

We plan a 10 day trip to philippines between 23 oct – 2 nov 2019 from HK. In order to plan itinerary considering rain season we decided to stay in western islands. As we have already experienced bali and not very excited with whale sharks we skipped cebu/bohol and we have decided for puerto princesa (via manila)-el nido-coron-boracay and back to HK. How does it sound for that season? And how should be the split of total planning in nights: manila 1-pp 1 for river- el nido 3- coron 2- boracay 3 is our plan in mind?

Thanks in advance.

08/07/2019 at 7:18 am

That looks pretty good! I would give Coron more than El Nido, though. I just liked it more. https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/coron-vs-el-nido/

08/14/2019 at 7:26 am

Hey, thanks for your tips, they’re very helpful. Can you recommend any motorbikes places/companies to move through Philippines? I heard it is better to rent a scooter than drive a car

08/14/2019 at 9:36 am

Since it’s an archipelago I rented one at each island and there are plenty of places, often at your guesthouse, where you can rent once you get there.

Eric Younger says

08/15/2019 at 11:08 am

Love the post, and all the ideas on where to visit. I am of Filipino heritage, but have never been. AAMOF, my Mother is from Manila, and has not been back since I was born, almost 60 years. And I would love to bring my wife, daughters (they are in their 30’s), and Mom. My question is this, how long of a trip should we plan? Somehow I feel that even two weeks may not enough. Thanks again…

08/15/2019 at 11:22 am

Gosh that’s hard to gauge. Give it as much time as you can is what I’d suggest. There are so many islands, and depending on which currency you’re traveling on, it’s not too expensive, either!

Ankita Sharma says

08/25/2019 at 6:02 pm

Hi I’m planning a trip with my sister from around 10th Dec for 10 days to Philippines, request you to suggest itenary. We want to cover beaches & also have a good night life throughout.

09/02/2019 at 10:05 am

This itinerary!

Magdalena Olszanska says

10/22/2019 at 7:12 am

Thank you so much guys for sharing your amazing trip and all of the useful info. Your videos are awsome and after 7 years together you still look very much in love. I wonder how did you manage to get some much time off from the every day life for that amazing trip 🙂 My boyfriend and I would love to follow your footsteps, the only worry we have is the weather. Do you guys know if from 30/11 till 14/12 it should be all dry or still big chance of rain please? Thanks a lot, Magdalena and Neil

12/14/2019 at 1:24 pm

It’s not the rainy season, but it’s the tropics so rain can definitely happen any time.

Steven says

10/30/2019 at 7:44 am

Wow this blog is great. Almost all the places we would like to visit…. Even though we have family over there I’m a bit confused where to start first. We have 23 days to travel around…

The places we would like to see are:

-Arrival in Manila – Maybe overnight stay but then move on -Baguio City (maybe we need to skip this?) -Hundred Island (maybe we need to skip this?) -Rice terrace (maybe we need to skip this?) -Samar – to visit family 3-4 days (MUST) -Surigao + Siargao to visit family 3-4 days (MUST) -Cebu – Kawasan Fall and others? (MUST) -Bohol – Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Monkey (MUST) -Palawan (MUST) -Boracay to relax 3-4 days (MUST) -Back to Manila and fly back to Europe

We would like to fly or to take the quickest way – is it the best to start from up do down? how many days would you recommend to stay in each place to see the most important things?

Thank you so much for your help.

10/30/2019 at 3:02 pm

Hi Steven, gosh how long you stay is so subjective. You could cut out all but the musts and have a more relaxed journey. Remember that travel days can be long in the Philippines and delays are common. The order looks fine to me!

10/31/2019 at 2:28 am

we’ll definitely cut the north.. yes true, loosing time to go from A to B We’ve been to phil. many times before but only to visit family and never visited the tourist spots. but maybe we’ll need to plan some places for another year :):) thx a lot

12/08/2019 at 10:16 am

We replaced the suggestion with one that doesn’t feed the whale sharks. I didn’t personally do the diving, this was a guest post. I think it’s important to talk about the most popular whale shark encounters so that people can make informed decisions, no?

Leaving rude comments on the internet without reading the whole post…shame on you 😉

RAHI GANDHI says

12/23/2019 at 12:47 am

Hi If I want to do a 7 day travel, where all should I go? And what would he my budget? I’m coming from India… So should I got to Manila or cebu or somewhere else first?

12/23/2019 at 10:05 am

Cebu is a good starting point since you’d be close to Moalboal and some nice waterfalls. 7 days is short to try to island hop much. Transport can be a bit tough there.

Hannah says

02/10/2020 at 7:16 am

Hi there, I am planning a 10ish day trip to the Philippines and I had originally planned to do about half in Coron and half in El Nido. Would you reccommend this, or would you say these places are too similar and it would be better to explore other areas of the country? If the latter, is there anywhere close to either that you would reccommend instead?

02/10/2020 at 8:41 am

I think they’re both worth visiting! The PH can be tough to travel around and travel days can be long with lots of delays so I think fewer spots is better.

Natalia says

04/03/2020 at 5:30 pm

Hola! Soy Natalia. Tu blog esta muy bien explicado!!!! Quiero ir de vacaciones el año que viene a Filipinas. Quiero estar en: Siargao, Boracay, Coron, El Nido y Cebú. Por cual me conviene empezar para seguir geográficamente el itinerario de viaje desde Manila? Podrías decirme el orden en el que debo hacer el recorrido? Gracias.

04/04/2020 at 9:03 am

El Nido and Coron, then Boracay, Cebu, and Siargao probably makes the most sense 🙂

Jasmin Royena says

01/14/2021 at 4:56 am

Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful about Philippines it is so appreciated! The country has a slogan “its More Fun inthe Philippines”, because whatever type of travel adventure you’re looking for, you’re bound to discover a fun experience in the Philippines. Thank you again for sharing info’s and your experience would like to travel and experience it! You always have good humor in your post/blog. So much fun and easy to read!

01/14/2021 at 8:59 am

So glad you enjoyed it!

Daniel says

05/01/2021 at 1:11 am

First of all, thank you for this detailed information about the Philippines. Keep it up!

What do you think about this itinerary, was planning to visit next year.

Day 1: Arriving in Manila in the morning, and than take afternoon flight to Coron. 2-3- Coron 4-7- El Nido 8-10- Boracay 11- Cebu, Kawasan Falls 12-15- Siargao 16-18- Bohol 19- Manila, overnight bus to Banaue 20- Banaue – Batad 21- Batad – Sagada 22-23- Sagada 24- Manila- Flight back home.

05/01/2021 at 8:29 am

Seems really quick to me! Sometimes ferries can be very delayed and transit takes a while, Just something to consider. There’s not much breathing room in that itinerary.

05/05/2021 at 10:55 pm

Thank you. Where can I add a day or two? Or which one of them can I take off? Any help..

05/07/2021 at 4:19 pm

that would really be more of a personal choice! I would base it on which place you would prefer to spend more time.

Martha Spicer says

09/29/2021 at 11:38 am

Hi! Love, love all your information. I do have some questions that you might help us with. PLEASE! We are group of four traveling. Ages 62, 63, 64 and 67. We are all adventuresome. However my husband that is 76 has Parkinson’s disease. He struggles to walk but tries like hell to. We will be coming from Vietnam to the Philippines. Origination from the US. Could you recommend an itinerary for a two week trip? Pretend we are your parents 🙂 We will land in Manila but would just like to pass and head out. We are struggling to minimize travel an d plan a route that limits travel time because of my sick husband. Where to start and where to end. Our flight home will be out of Manila. Our travel dates are approx April 12 to 27. Love nature, scooter rides, kayaking. Thanks you soooooo much and travel safe. Martha, Jeff, Caroline and Marc

10/11/2021 at 1:28 pm

I’d pick what looks best to you on this list and do some research into the accessibility. Sorry I can’t be more help, it’s not something I’ve looked into before. I’m thinking a tour operator might be your best bet.

Irina Gorodissky says

05/28/2024 at 3:24 pm

It’s 2024 I know this post is a little older. Where did you stay when visiting Kawasan falls ? You did not mention it in your article.

30 Absolutely Spectacular Places to Visit in the Philippines

Get ready to discover the best places to visit in the Philippines with this handy travel guide.

Looking at a world map might lend you to think that the Philippines is a tiny country. But zoom in. If you look closely, you’ll see that the Philippines actually consists of over 7,000 islands.

That’s a LOT of islands to explore and places to visit in the Philippines. If you spent one day on each island, it would take you 19 YEARS to see everything.

Needless to say, you could probably spend a whole lifetime traveling around the Philippines and never get bored.

But Kay , you might ask, what else is there to do in the Philippines besides going to the beach?

Oh boy, you’re in for a big surprise. The Philippines has pretty much everything, except for snow (and who likes the freezing cold anyway?!). In addition to the most beautiful beaches in the world, the Philippines has:

• Mountains and volcanoes
• Stunning, misty rice terraces
• Giant caves
• UNESCO World Heritage and historic sites
• Bustling cities
• Amazing tropical fruits and regional foods
• The best coconut water (fresh off the tree!)
• Some of the friendliest, kindest people

So, yeah. What I’m basically saying is that you should get yourself over to the Philippines ASAP and explore it for yourself. It’s quite possibly one of the most underrated destinations in Southeast Asia, and its beauty and hospitality will blow you away.

Don’t believe me? To help inspire  convince you to visit, I’ve compiled a list of 30 of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines. If not a single one of these beautiful places interests or fascinates you…well, I just don’t know what to tell you.

Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

Northern philippines/luzon.

The land of rice terraces and rolling hills, the northern part of the Philippines is mainly occupied by the province of Luzon. Not only can you find lush forests and beautiful landscapes here, but there’s also quite a bit of history and significant landmarks in the region.

Ifugao Rice Terraces

Deep in the center of the island of Luzon lies a green, mountainous area. The climate here is perfect for growing rice, and throughout the high season, many farmers have worked for years to cultivate their crops here.

As a result, there are miles of stark, verdant rice terraces carved into the sides of the mountains here, and the resulting imagery is absolutely surreal. If you enjoy a good adventure (and stunning scenery), the Ifugao Rice Terraces belong on your list of places to visit in the Philippines.

It’s fairly difficult to get to the Ifugao Rice Terraces, and will take at least 2-3 days to explore fully. To get there, you have to take a bus (9+ hours) from Manila to Banaue, then continue hiking more to reach the viewpoints.

There are two main villages in Ifugao where you can base yourself to see the rice terraces: Banaue and Batad.

What Manila offers in traffic, energy, and noise, Tagaytay has in relaxation, natural beauty, and solitude.

Located less than 2 hours outside of Manila on a mountain overlooking Taal Lake and Volcano, Tagaytay offers mountain bed & breakfasts, beautiful views, and areas for quiet reflection. It’s like the Pacific Northwest of the Philippines, minus the hipsters.

For a relaxing, rejuvenating weekend away, there’s no better place to go than Sonya’s Garden . Located in a garden with bright flowers, fresh foods and herbs, and lots of tropical forest areas, this locally-owned inn is a cute and cozy getaway.

Luxurious cottages dot the grounds, and in the morning, you’ll be treated to delicious breakfast and warm pastries by the kindest staff. There’s also a spa and restaurant here for those truly looking to unwind.

Taal Volcano

Want to see one of the Philippines’ cutest volcanoes? Head to Taal Lake, which boasts the tiny but mighty Taal Volcano in its center.

It might look small, but Taal packs a big punch, as it is the second most active volcano in all of the Philippines. For the adventure junkies out there, this is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines because you can actually hike this volcano and see its crater, too.

To hike Taal volcano, you need to take a boat from Precious Boat Station to Taal Volcano. Then, from the trailhead, it takes less than an hour to get to the crater. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the inside of the volcano, as well as the entirety of Taal Lake.

Sagada is the Philippine version of a mountain town gone backpacker haven. Located 6-7 hours outside of Manila in some limestone valleys, it is perfectly situated in between hiking trails, caves, and peaceful greenery.

Here, visitors can get their outdoor fix without needing to go too far from the town. There is also a lot of deep local tradition and history in Sagada, with some of the most unique attractions being those of local death rituals and burials.

Batanes is to the Philippines as the Azores is to Portugal. It is the island in this archipelago that’s so far north, you probably didn’t realize it was part of the Philippines.

Located ~200 km from the northernmost tip of Luzon, Batanes is an island of rolling hills, historic lighthouses, and lush farmlands. Here, you can hike, explore historic buildings, or simply relax and take in the isolation of it all.

The only way to get to Batanes is to fly. Luckily, many budget carriers in the Philippines fly from both Cebu and Manila to Batanes, so you won’t be short on options for getting to the island.

Catanduanes

If you’re looking for the isolation for Batanes but don’t want to be as remote, head to Catanduanes.

Filled with craggy, rocky mountains, beautiful green forests, and remote beaches, this place is a perfect haven for rejuvenating and disconnecting, and it’s right off the coast of Luzon.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vigan is one of the most historically significant parts of the Philippines.

Established in the 16th century, Vigan was one of the original Spanish colonial cities and trading posts in the Philippines. The unique blend of Philippine, Spanish, and Chinese designs make the city and architectural and historical marvel – the coming together of many civilizations.

Today, Vigan’s central area includes Calle Crislogo, which boasts cobblestoned streets, brightly colored homes, charming guesthouses, and many historic sites that tourists can visit.

Here, you can also cruise down Vigan’s river, or admire local artisans at work, weaving brightly colored fabrics and tapestries.

Corregidor Island & Bataan

Remember how I mentioned that the Philippines has several historically significant sites? Corregidor Island and Bataan are two of them.

Known most famously for the Bataan Death March in 1942, this area was home to an American military base and was one of the main fighting grounds in WWII.

Today, visitors and history buffs alike can visit the area to learn more about the impact of WWII in the Philippines, and the critical role these islands and their people played during the war.

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park

If you didn’t get enough of volcanoes in Taal and want to see more, Bulusan in Sorsogon is the best place to do so. Here, you can hike and take in epic views of Mount Bulusan.

There is also a center here to learn more about volcanic activity in the area and in the country as a whole. In addition to being a fantastic outdoor and learning experience, a visit to Bulusan is just really freaking beautiful too.

Located in Sorsogon, Donsol is best known best for one major perk: whale shark sightings.

Unlike in Oslob (Cebu) where whale sharks are fed by humans and their natural behavioral patterns are potentially disrupted, in Donsol, tourists are instructed to silently observe these gentle giants going about their normal daily routines. This kind of distant observation is much better for the whale sharks AND for the tourists.

If you’re dying to see these magnificent creatures, I highly recommend heading to Donsol and observing them with as little human interaction as possible.

Visayas/Central Philippines

The Visayas is literally and figuratively the heart of the Philippines. Located in the central part of the Philippines, the Visayas (pronounced “Bees-eye-yas”) region has some of the most spectacular islands in the country.

Here, you can find some of the most colorful and unique snorkeling and diving in the country, as well as volcanic islands and incredible wildlife. Of all of the places to visit in the Philippines, the Visayas region is probably my favorite.

Camiguin Island is the “island born of fire,” and from its volcano-laden landscape, it’s easy to see why.

Although it’s one of the smallest inhabited islands of the Philippines, Camiguin really packs a punch in terms of things to do. Waterfalls? Yup. Volcanoes? You got it. Historic ruins? They’re here. Pristine white sandbars and blue water? Check check check.

From diving to hiking, sunbathing to swimming, Camiguin is like a giant playground for people who love to be outdoors.

While here, you can also sample local specialties like fern salad (yes, made of real Camiguin ferns), lanzones, turones, and the Philippine version of ceviche.

Cebu is one of the Philippines’ largest cities, and while I usually advise visitors to the Philippines to spend as little time in the cities as possible, I think Cebu is worth a visit.

Here, there are remnants of the many cultures that helped shape the Philippines, from Spanish-style Catholic churches to Taoist temples, and a giant statue of Lapu-Lapu (Ferdinand Magellan’s killer) just outside the city.

There are so many potential options for any  Cebu itinerary , it’s no wonder many tourists use it as a base for their Philippines adventures!

Of course, you’ll also find the crazy traffic, gargantuan shopping malls, and ritzy neighborhoods that exist in all cities in the Philippines, a visit to Cebu can open your eyes to the mix of cultures and traditions that exist here.

Just a few hours outside of Cebu lies the small town of Moalboal. And while there are a few souvenir shops, seaside restaurants, and small cabanas here to stay in, the best part of Moalboal lies under the surface.

Yup, you guessed it, it’s a diver’s heaven. Here, you can spot schools of fish, wild turtles, and colorful reefs just below the surface. You can also get your open-water certification from one of the many dive shops here.

If you’re a somewhat experienced diver and feel you’re ready for the big game (literally), you can head to Malapascua. This is another diver’s paradise off the coast of Cebu that offers advanced certified divers the chance to see and dive with large marine life like thresher sharks and manta rays.

While I was there, I did a couple of deep water dives (~30 meters) and got to see a whole handful of thresher sharks – so cool! It was my 22nd birthday present to myself and an experience I’ll never forget.

Deep diving in Malapascua is an incredible way to admire natural beauty and meet some of the large sea creatures we don’t often get to see.

Home to the famed chocolate hills, Bohol is a prime location for landscapes, beaches, and wildlife. Here, you can experience the Chocolate Hills by climbing one of them. However, please follow appropriate signage and only climb hills that are designated for people.

While in Bohol, you can also see the beautiful, small tarsier monkeys, the world’s smallest primate! There’s a sanctuary here where you can observe (but not touch) these tiny, big-eyed creatures.

Disclaimer: There are also many other wildlife viewing sanctuaries around the island. However, I encourage you to thoroughly research any animal activities (in Bohol and around the world) before you choose to go to them. Places offering riding, petting, and holding wild animals is typically a bad sign.

Siquijor is another small island in the Philippines that’s home to all kind of outdoor activities and beautiful beaches. Here, you can find a few secluded beach areas surrounded by palm trees with sparkling white sand. You can also find rainforests oases with small fish that nibble on your feet. Waterfalls and hiking trails around the island treat visitors with a dose of much-needed fresh air and beautiful photogenic gems.

Eastern Philippines

While the eastern part of the Philippines constantly receives the brunt of typhoon damage, there are still a few exciting and notable places to visit in this region. The area is primarily known for historical sites and being home to the largest cave in the Philippines.

Legazpi City

Legazpi is one of the Philippines’ most picturesque cities. It’s steeped in history and nature and full of things to do for any kind of traveler.

Here, you can find ruins, caves, zip lines, and views of one of the Philippines’ most stunning and perfect volcanoes, Mayon. Spend a day exploring nature, hang around in the Cagsawa Ruins, or just lazily watch the day go by in the shadow of the mighty volcano.

Langun-Gobingob Caves

The largest cave system in the Philippines, Langun-Gobingob Caves, is located on the island of Samar. Inside this lesser-explored cave, there are thousands of stalagmites and stalactites that hang from the walls.

Getting here isn’t easy, though. To explore these monstrous caves, visitors must embark on an 8-9 hour round trip guided trekking journey through trails outside and inside of the cave.

Palawan/Western Philippines

With islands largely consisting of jagged limestone, the Western part of the Philippines boasts beautiful white sand beaches, incredible hiking and climbing, unique scuba diving, and amazing island hopping to secret lagoons with the clearest blue water.

Coron is a remote island off the coast of El Nido that is practically a paradise. Luckily, you can get here a few different ways – by boat or by plane.

Visitors who make the trek out to Coron are greeted with incredible secret lagoons, relaxed beaches, stunning landscapes, and vibrant sunsets. You can also spend a day island hopping in Coron .

Not only is Coron remarkable above the surface, but it has many gems under the water as well. Here, divers can marvel at colorful, shallow reefs or dive through historic WWII Japanese battleships that were sunk during the war. It’s a popular place for people to get dive certified as well.

As much of a paradise as Coron is for divers, El Nido is a paradise for, well, everyone else. Situated on the northern coast of Palawan, El Nido is a haven for island hoppers, snorkelers, and swimmers.

Here, you can embark on one of several island hopping tours, which take you around to different uninhabited islands in the area to swim, sunbathe, and explore. These different tours are extremely affordable and offer visitors a chance to see hidden lagoons, majestic, fjord-like viewpoints, marine life, and clear water for miles.

One of the most important things to know before visiting El Nido is that it’s fairly difficult to get to. To arrive here, you either need to fly to Puerto Princesa and take a 5-hour van, or fly into Coron and take a boat. Either way, it’s a worthwhile trek to see some of the Philippines’ most vibrant landscapes.

Puerto Princesa

One of the easiest places to reach in Palawan, Puerto Princesa is full of famed landmarks and things to do.

The most notable of activities in the Puerto Princesa region is the Underground River, a river that runs through a large cave system. Visitors to the Underground River can take a boat through the caves to explore them with an experienced guide.

Note that this attraction gets extremely crowded, so it’s worth going as early as you can.

Additionally, visitors to Puerto Princesa can hop on an island-hopping adventure around some of the white sand islands nearby, or take a night-time firefly boat tour through a bioluminescent river.

Of all of these activities, my favorite was definitely the night boat – I’d never seen so many fireflies in my life, and our boat and oars lit up brightly in the water with the bioluminescent plankton!

Ah, the famed Boracay. For better or for worse, it definitely belongs on any “top things to do in the Philippines” post.

With its white sand, upscale resorts, and hordes of tourists, Boracay is the classic “lay on the beach and do nothing” destination of the Philippines. Think of it as a Cancun of sorts. If you’re looking for an easy and relaxed all-inclusive resort, you can definitely find one here.

This one’s for the foodies out there. Yes, the Philippines even has destinations for you! The cuisine in Iloilo and the surrounding areas is some of the finest and most unique in the country.

Head to the markets and local sit down restaurants to try dishes such as batchoy (a noodle and meat stew), pansit molo , chicken binakol , and seafood varieties, Iloilo is a city waiting to be explored by the hungriest of souls.

Apo Island is a tiny island near Negros Oriental. Another marine paradise on the list, Apo Island is home to some of the most colorful and diverse reefs in the Philippines.

Here, snorkelers and divers can see all kinds of fish, turtles, and corals. There’s also a quaint village, a historic lighthouse, and some rocky beaches to explore nearby.

Antique is one of the most diverse provinces to visit in the Philippines.

Here, there’s an abundance of outdoor activities, beaches and snorkeling, and historic landmarks to enjoy. The most notable natural areas to visit in this area are Malalison Island Sand Bar, Seco Island, and the Cold Spring.

Nearby, there are also gorgeous rice terraces to hike through and enjoy. For history lovers, the Patnongon ruins are a must. And for those interested in culture and artisan work, you can observe weavers creating bright fabrics in Bagtason (and maybe even learn yourself).

Looking for more things to do in Antique? This post is super helpful as a starting point!

Tubbataha Reef

One of the most pristine and well-preserved reefs in the world, Tubbataha is located far off the coast of the main archipelago.

The best way to access the reef is from a diving liveaboard, which usually take anywhere from a couple of days to over a week.

While many of the reef areas are fairly shallow, I’d recommend having plenty of diving experience before taking a liveaboard to Tubbataha. You can check Tubbataha reef and liveaboard reviews on TripAdvisor.

Southern Philippines/Mindanao

Mindanao Province and the southern part of the Philippines is one of the least explored regions of the country. This is partially due to warnings of terrorist activity in the area, and partly because many of the most famous tourist areas are elsewhere in the country.

However, the southern region does have some incredibly beautiful areas that are worth a visit if you’re planning to head south.

Surigao is one of my favorite places I’ve visited in the Philippines. It is FULL of unique outdoor activities.

In Surigao, you can visit the “Enchanted River,” a magically blue spring located in the rainforest. From there, you can also take a boat to do some sandbar island hopping, with stops at various caves and craggy uninhabited islands all along the way.

Lastly, Surigao is also home to some stunning waterfalls, like Tinuy-An Falls, where you can swim and hike around. Needless to say, I loved it there and if you get the chance to visit, you will too.

Zamboanga City

For what a lot of large cities in the Philippines lack in character, Zamboanga makes up for. This city has lots of beautiful historic walking areas, ruins, plazas, and promenades to meander through.

It almost feels like a Central or South American city in a lot of ways. Because it’s located in an area of the country with many Muslims, Zamboanga is one of the rare places in the Philippines where you can visit a mosque. The iconic Taluksangay Mosque is known for its bright red dome amidst the otherwise whitewashed walls.

Bukidnon, located in the center of Mindanao, is one of the most underrated and spectacular areas of the Philippines.

Full of tall trees, rolling hills, and small villages, it’s a lovely place to sit back and enjoy nature to the fullest. The views of the surrounding farmlands and colorful sunsets in Bukidnon are absolutely to die for.

Siargao is a popular surfing destination in the Philippines, and the kind of island where you’ll plan to stay for a few days and get stuck for a few weeks. Yeah, it’s that relaxed and alluring.

As a backpacker and surfer haven, it’s easy to surf your heart away and lose track of the time and day here. Luckily, it’s an easygoing and welcoming place that might just steal your heart.

Additional Philippines Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit the Philippines

The Philippines is a wonderful year-round destination. However, the best weather occurs during the dry season, which is approximately November to March.

Additionally, there are commonly typoons in the late summer to early fall, so I strongly recommend planning your trip outside of August-October.

What to Pack for the Philippines

The Philippines is a tropical destination, so pack your bags like you would for any warm, humid place. Here are some essentials I’d recommend bringing with you:

• Clothes for warm weather
• A light jacket
• A comfy pair of shoes
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• A sarong or quick-dry towel
• A good  headlamp
• Sunglasses and a brimmed hat
• Travel insurance (you KNOW you should always have it!)

Getting Around the Philippines

Flight: The easiest and fastest way to get from island to island in the Philippines is to fly. Most of the major islands have at least a small runway where planes can come and go a few times a week. The cheapest flights and airlines in the Philippines area Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines .

Boat: It’s possible to take a boat between islands, and especially common for going from one (larger) island to the next (smaller) island. Note that unless you’re taking a high-speed bangka  between nearby islands, large boats tend to be really slow and may take several hours or even require an overnight stay.

Bus or Van: While traveling around within an island, there are typically two kinds of public transport: public buses and shared vans. Public buses are the cheaper option, are very large and crowded, and usually don’t have air conditioning. Vans/shuttles are smaller, sometimes have air conditioning, and usually run slightly more expensive.

Private Car: If you’ve got the funds, you can hire a private car and a driver to take you around from place to place within an island. Note that this is the most expensive option and usually requires advanced arrangement.

Best Places to Travel in the Philippines: Read Next

• The Ultimate Philippines Packing List
• 27 Essential Things to Know Before Traveling in the Philippines

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest

I’m Kay. I’m originally from small town Virginia, but have moved all around the East Coast and the United States for basically my entire life. I spent my childhood days blissfully wandering through the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling in leaves, playing in creeks…you know, the usual overly adventurous 5-year-old stuff.

But those early years spent outside gave me a real problem: I’m now an adventure addict. Basically, if I’m not at my computer banging out articles or photos, I’m probably out hiking, biking, or camping somewhere beautiful.

Related Posts

27 Essential Things to Know Before Traveling in the Philippines: Top Philippines Travel Tips

The Ultimate Philippines Packing List: 33 Essential Items for Philippines Travel

Things to do on Camiguin Island: A Local’s Guide to One of the Philippines’ Best-Kept Secrets

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

Discover the 15 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines in 2023: Your Ultimate Tourist Guide!

Table of Contents

The Philippines – a tropical paradise nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia – has long been hailed as one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, it’s no wonder that travelers from across the globe are drawn to this archipelago of wonder.

Welcome to our ultimate tourist guide for the year 2023. At Take More Adventures, we understand the allure of exploring new horizons and experiencing the magic of travel.

Our mission is simple: to be your compass, leading you to the most captivating corners of the world. And what better place to start than the Philippines?

In this article, we journeyed through the 15 best places in the Philippines in 2023. Whether you’re an intrepid adventurer, a beachcomber seeking white sands and crystal-clear waters, or a cultural enthusiast eager to immerse yourself in the local traditions, we’ve got you covered.

But this is no ordinary travel guide – an invitation to an adventure.

Prepare to be captivated by tales of hidden treasures, pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant cities.

As we delve into the heart of the Philippines, you’ll discover why this tropical gem deserves a prime spot on your 2023 travel list.

So, fellow wanderer, buckle up as we navigate the mesmerizing archipelago of the Philippines. With every turn of the page, you’ll find inspiration, information, and the promise of unforgettable adventures. The Philippines awaits – are you ready to dive in?

Overview of the 15 Best Places To Visit in the Philippines

In this article, we’ll embark on a whirlwind tour of the 15 best tourist spots in the Philippines in 2023. Each destination is a unique gem, offering its blend of natural wonders, cultural riches, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart, a beach lover, a history enthusiast, or simply searching for new horizons, the Philippines has something extraordinary to offer you.

So, let’s set the stage for our journey. Here’s a quick glimpse of the 15 captivating places we’ll be exploring in this ultimate tourist guide:

• Vigan : Step back in time as you wander through the charming streets of this UNESCO World Heritage city, known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture.
• Baguio : The “Summer Capital of the Philippines” is a cool escape amidst pine-clad mountains, featuring vibrant markets and the famous Panagbenga Flower Festival.
• Banaue Rice Terraces : Behold the breathtaking terraces carved into the mountainsides, a testament to the ancient farming ingenuity of the Ifugao people.
• La Union : Surf’s up! This coastal haven is perfect for riding the waves and soaking up a relaxed beach vibe.
• Metro Manila : The vibrant capital of the Philippines, where modern skyscrapers coexist with historical sites and a bustling street food scene.
• Mayon Volcano, Albay : Witness the perfectly cone-shaped Mayon Volcano and explore the surrounding natural wonders.
• El Nido, Palawan : A paradise of limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and hidden lagoons – a must-visit for island-hopping enthusiasts.
• Coron, Palawan : Dive into the underwater wonderland of Coron’s shipwrecks and vibrant marine life.
• Boracay : The Philippines’ poster child for stunning white sand beaches, water sports, and vibrant nightlife.
• Siquijor : Known for its mystical charm, this island offers serene beaches, lush forests, and intriguing folklore.
• Cebu : A bustling city with historical significance and a gateway to pristine beaches, diving spots, and adventures like canyoneering.
• Bohol : Encounter the Chocolate Hills, unique tarsier primates, and beautiful river cruises in this enchanting province.
• Siargao : The surfing capital of the Philippines and a laid-back paradise with stunning lagoons and rock pools.
• Samal Island, Davao : Discover a tranquil retreat with pristine beaches, waterfalls, and an underwater world for scuba enthusiasts.
• Bukidnon : A highland escape offering lush landscapes, a cool climate, and the thrill of zip-lining over lush greenery.

With these tantalizing destinations on the horizon, our journey through the Philippines promises to be an adventure of a lifetime. Each stop on our itinerary holds the promise of unforgettable memories and experiences. So, fasten your seatbelt, fellow traveler, as we dive into the heart of the Philippines!

Why the Philippines is a Top Tourist Destination

Its unparalleled blend of unique attractions and features sets the Philippines apart on the global tourism map. It’s a land where nature’s artistry meets rich cultural tapestry. Here are some aspects that make the Philippines stand out:

1. Pristine Beaches : The Philippines boasts some of the world’s most pristine and picturesque beaches. With powdery white sands, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s a beach lover’s dream come true.

2. Natural Wonders : From the otherworldly Chocolate Hills of Bohol to the mystical Banaue Rice Terraces, the Philippines is a treasure trove of natural wonders that will leave you in awe.

3. Diverse Marine Life : A vibrant underwater world awaits beneath the waves. The country is renowned for its scuba diving spots, offering encounters with colorful coral gardens and diverse marine species.

4. Cultural Riches : The Philippines’ rich cultural heritage is a testament to its history of trade and colonization. Explore Spanish-influenced architecture, vibrant festivals, and traditional arts and crafts.

5. Warm Hospitality : Filipinos are known for their warm and welcoming nature. You’ll find their hospitality to be genuinely heartwarming, making you feel like family wherever you go.

Nature’s Beauty, Cultural Bounty, and Warm Hearts

The Philippines encapsulates the essence of natural splendor, cultural richness, and genuine warmth. Its landscapes are enchant with majestic volcanoes, emerald rice terraces, and pristine beaches. Its diverse cultures paint a vivid tapestry, celebrating history through festivals and traditions. But perhaps what truly defines the Philippines is its people’s unfailing warmth and hospitality, inviting you to explore and experience this tropical paradise with open arms.

1. Natural Beauty : The Philippines is a visual feast of natural beauty. Its landscapes range from the towering Mayon Volcano to the serene rice terraces, and its beaches rival those of any tropical paradise.

2. Cultural Diversity : With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a tapestry of diverse cultures and traditions. Each region offers a unique glimpse into the country’s history and heritage.

3. Festivals : Throughout the year, the Philippines comes alive with colorful festivals. Whether it’s the Sinulog in Cebu or the Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, these celebrations showcase the vibrancy of Filipino culture.

4. Culinary Delights : Filipino cuisine is a delicious fusion of flavors influenced by Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American cuisines. Don’t miss trying adobo, sinigang, and lechon.

5. Warm Hearts : Filipinos are renowned for their friendliness and warmth. Locals are always ready to assist and share stories, making your journey memorable.

One notable advantage for travelers is the widespread use of English as a second language. This makes communication a breeze , as many Filipinos are proficient English speakers, inviting you to explore and experience this tropical paradise with open arms.

Vigan, one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines, is not just a popular tourist destination; it’s a living testament to history. This city, founded over 500 years ago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you wander through Vigan today, you’ll still encounter echoes of its rich past. 

The heart of Vigan boasts two main plazas, Plaza Salcedo and Plaza Burgos, with the grand St. Paul’s Cathedral standing proudly in between. The city’s layout is simple and efficient, with straight roads intersecting at right angles. You’ll find it’s hard to get lost here, and you’ll often end up back where you started.

One distinctive feature of Vigan is Calle Crisologo, the main street in its historic core. This charming cobblestone road is blissfully closed to traffic, making it a visual delight and a perfect navigation tool for exploring the area.

Vigan’s claim to fame is the most intact example in Asia of a meticulously planned Spanish colonial town dating back to the 16th century. Its architectural marvels are a fusion of influences from the Philippines, China, Europe, and Mexico, resulting in a unique cultural and architectural landscape in East and Southeast Asia.

Vigan’s commitment to preserving its Hispanic colonial character makes it exceptional. Vigan has maintained its historical integrity from the grid street pattern to the overall urban layout. It’s a place where different architectural influences blend harmoniously, creating a picturesque townscape that invites you to step back in time and savor its rich heritage.

Vigan: A Closer Look

Key Attractions:

• Calle Crisologo : This iconic cobblestone street is a preserved Spanish colonial architecture treasure trove. Stroll along and admire the well-preserved heritage houses that line the street, some of which have been converted into museums, shops, and charming cafes.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral : A majestic centerpiece, this centuries-old cathedral is a must-visit. Its grand façade and intricate interiors glimpse Vigan’s spiritual and architectural history.
• Plaza Salcedo and Plaza Burgos : These bustling plazas are not just landmarks but vibrant local culture and commerce hubs. You can find food stalls, souvenir shops, and a lively atmosphere here.

Unique Experiences:

• Kalesa Ride : Step into a traditional horse-drawn carriage called a kalesa and explore the city leisurely and authentically. It’s a charming experience that takes you back in time.
• Heritage House Tours : Many of Vigan’s ancestral homes have been turned into museums and guesthouses. Tour these houses to learn about the city’s history and architecture.
• Empanada Tasting : Don’t leave Vigan without trying its famous empanadas. These savory pastries filled with ground meat and vegetables are a local delicacy.

Best Time to Visit:

• The ideal time to explore Vigan is during the cooler months, from November to February. The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy your walks through the historic streets without the scorching heat.

Local Culture and Cuisine:

• Vigan’s culture is a captivating blend of Filipino, Spanish, and Chinese influences. You’ll notice this fusion in everything from its architecture to its festivals.
• Don’t miss the chance to savor local dishes like bagnet (crispy pork belly), Vigan longganisa (sausage), and sinanglao (beef soup). These flavors reflect the city’s culinary heritage.

Accommodation Options:

• Vigan offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences. You can choose from charming heritage hotels, boutique guesthouses, or modern hotels with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
• Some historic homes have been converted into guesthouses, allowing you to immerse yourself in Vigan’s unique atmosphere.

In Vigan, history is not confined to textbooks; it’s a living, breathing presence you can experience firsthand. From the enchanting streets to the savory cuisine, Vigan invites you to step back in time and create memories that will stay with you long after you’ve left its cobblestone paths.

2. Baguio: The Upland Attraction

Nestled in the Grand Cordillera in Northern Luzon, Baguio is the Philippines’ highland haven, offering respite from the lowland heat and dust. However, it’s important to note that Baguio isn’t your typical tranquil retreat. It’s a bustling university town with one of the country’s largest student populations, around 250,000. This city also serves as a crossroads, bridging hill tribe culture with that of the lowland settlers. For many travelers, Baguio is the primary gateway to the backpacker’s paradise up north in places like Sagada, Banaue, and Kalinga.

• Camp John Hay : Once an R&R facility for American military personnel during the American occupation, it’s now a country club offering an 18-hole golf course, horseback riding, camping, and more. A condotel has also been in operation since 2001.
• Session Road : This bustling thoroughfare is the heart of Baguio, where most of the city’s activity is centered.
• Mines View Park : Enjoy breathtaking mountain views, and don’t forget to get a photo with DOGLAS, St. Bernard.
• Philippine Military Academy : Discover the institution where future leaders of the Philippine armed forces are trained.
• Burnham Park : Take a leisurely walk or go rowing on the small lake (₱100 per hour).
• Strawberry Fields : Take a short jeepney ride to go strawberry picking, a delightful experience just outside the city (₱12 from Magsaysay Avenue).
• Riverside Hotel : Enjoy hot spring swimming pools in a lush green valley 19 km from the city center. It’s near the historic Asin Tunnels, built by Spanish colonizers using prisoners of war during the 19th century.
• Laperal House : This longstanding house is famous for its alleged hauntings, making it a popular spot on TV shows. Built-in the 1930s, it’s constructed of narra and yakal wood and exhibits Victorian architectural flair. While it may be known for its ghostly rumors, it’s an intriguing place to visit (the entrance fee is ₱50).
• The cool climate, foggy hills, and lovely flowers make Baguio a year-round destination. However, if you prefer milder weather, visit from November to February.
• Baguio is a melting pot of different cultures due to its strategic location. You’ll find a rich tapestry of traditions and influences here.
• Don’t miss out on local delicacies like strawberry taho (tofu snack), ukoy (shrimp fritters), and fresh vegetables from the Baguio Public Market.
• Baguio offers a range of accommodations, from modern hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some options even glimpse the city’s history by staying in heritage houses turned into lodgings.

Once a grassy marshland, Baguio has transformed into a bustling city known for its clean and green environment. Its cool climate, fog-kissed hills, and panoramic views make it a favorite among travelers seeking a refreshing escape. Whether exploring its vibrant streets or uncovering its intriguing history, Baguio welcomes you with open arms.

3. Banaue Rice Terraces: Nature’s Marvel

The Banaue Rice Terraces often hailed as the 8th Natural Wonder of the World by Filipinos, are a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines. Carved into the mountains of Ifugao, these terraces are a testament to human ingenuity and a harmonious relationship with nature.

• Sunrise Viewpoint : For the most awe-inspiring vistas of the rice terraces, head to the Sunrise Viewpoint. Here, you’ll also have the chance to interact with the local Igarot tribespeople, who pose for photographs and offer beautifully crafted wood carvings.
• Trekking Paths : Venture into the heart of the terraces by following pathways that crisscross the rice paddies. Along the banks, you’ll be greeted by scarlet wildflowers, creating a vivid contrast with the lush green rice plantings.
• Waterfalls and Swimming Holes : Some hiking routes lead to waterfalls and natural swimming holes, offering a refreshing way to unwind after a trek through this breathtaking landscape.
• Guided Hikes : It’s advisable to hire a guide for your rice terrace adventure to avoid getting lost in the intricate network of paths. These hikes can take hours, but the panoramic views and encounters with local culture make it an unforgettable experience.
• Cultural Immersion : Witness the age-old farming practices carried out much the same way as they were centuries ago. The Ifugao people have maintained a sustainable relationship with their environment and have passed down their knowledge through generations.
• The ideal times to visit the Banaue Rice Terraces are between February and March, when cleaning and planting occur, and between June and July during harvest.
• If you plan to explore the nearby Batad Rice Terraces, the best times to visit are between April and May and again from October to November.
• The rice terraces are not only central to survival but also to the culture of the Ifugao people. Entire communities work together on seasonal planting, pest control, and harvesting, often accompanied by traditional rituals tied to lunar cycles.
• While the accommodation options directly at the terraces are limited, Banaue town offers various lodgings to suit your preferences, from budget-friendly guesthouses to more comfortable hotels.

The Banaue Rice Terraces are more than just breathtaking landscapes; they’re a testament to the connection between humans and their environment. These terraces have been nurtured for over two millennia using sustainable farming practices passed down through generations. Visiting this natural wonder not only offers panoramic views but also a deep appreciation for the culture and traditions of the Ifugao people.

4. La Union: Surf, Scenic Views, Cute Resorts, and More

La Union, often referred to as the surfing capital of Luzon’s west coast, has gained fame for its beautiful waves and vibrant beach town of San Juan. But this province offers more than just great surf; it has stunning natural beauty, heritage sites, and a burgeoning food scene.

• Surf in San Juan : La Union is the go-to destination for surfers, both beginners and experts. Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan is the epicenter of the surfing scene. The prime surfing season runs from October to March when the best waves roll in. Alternative surf spots like Bacnotan, Darigayos, Taboc, and Jesus Point in Carilla cater to surf enthusiasts looking for different experiences.
• The coastline of La Union, including Urbiztondo Beach, offers spectacular sunset views. For a more dramatic panorama, head to the rocky area on the south side of the beach.
• Tangadan Falls Cliff Diving : Take a break from the surf and head to Tangadan Falls in San Gabriel. It’s an easy day trip from San Juan. Tangadan Falls boasts a spacious plunge pool perfect for swimming. You can ride a bamboo raft to the main cascade for a refreshing waterfall shower. If you’re feeling adventurous, two smaller waterfalls nearby are popular for cliff diving.
• Luna Pebble Beach : Luna is known as the Pebble Capital of the North, and you can see why when you visit Bahay Na Bato. This picturesque pebble beach is surrounded by vibrant blue waters and strong sea waves, making it a unique spot for beachcombing and relaxation.
• Bahay Na Bato (House of Pebbles and Stones) : Located in Luna, this is one of the newest attractions in La Union. The rest house is constructed from stones from Luna’s rare pebbled beaches. The property exudes artistic charm, with stone and wooden sculptures by Korean artist Bong Kim adorning the interiors and grounds.
• Luna Church  Explore Luna’s heritage sites, including St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish (Shrine of Our Lady of Namacpacan), a grand Spanish-colonial church listed as a National Cultural Treasure. Nearby, you’ll find the Luna Baluarte or Watchtower, which once served as a fortress to warn residents of pirate attacks.
• Food Trip & Nightlife in Urbiztondo : San Juan has developed a hipster vibe, attracting a steady crowd of Millennials. Explore the Instagram-worthy and delectable food scene, and end your day with drinks at beach and roadside bars. Don’t miss places like Olas Banditos (Mexican), Mad Monkeys (Burgers), Surf Shack (Restobar), and Tagpuan (Affordable meals).
• Ma-Cho Temple : While in San Fernando, visit the Ma-Cho Temple atop a hill. This picturesque Taoist temple is dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu. It’s the first and only Taoist temple in the Philippines. The temple features a unique spider-type dome, the Majestic Five Door Gate, and interiors with ancient Chinese decorations.
• La Union is a year-round destination, but for surf enthusiasts, the prime season is from October to March.
• La Union’s vibrant food scene offers a mix of international and local flavors. Try the fresh seafood, Mexican cuisine, burgers, and affordable local meals.
• The province offers a range of accommodations, from beachfront resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, ensuring you’ll find a place to stay that suits your preferences.

La Union is more than a surfer’s paradise; it’s a destination that caters to all kinds of travelers. Whether riding the waves, exploring natural wonders, or savoring the local flavors, La Union invites you to experience its laidback charm and vibrant culture.

5.  Metro Manila: The Heart of the Philippines

Metro Manila, the bustling capital region of the Philippines, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that serves as the country’s economic, political, and cultural center. This dynamic region offers travelers various experiences from modern skyscrapers to historic landmarks.

• Intramuros : Explore the historic walled city of Intramuros, where you can visit Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and the San Agustin Church. These well-preserved Spanish-era structures provide insight into the Philippines’ colonial history.
• Rizal Park (Luneta Park) : Pay tribute to the national hero, Jose Rizal, at Rizal Park. This sprawling green space features the iconic Rizal Monument, gardens, and historical markers.
• National Museum of the Philippines : Immerse yourself in Filipino art, culture, and history at the National Museum. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts and artworks, including Juan Luna’s famous “Spoliarium.”
• Mall of Asia (MOA) : Shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment at Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in Asia. It’s also famous for its sunset views along Manila Bay.
• Jeepney Ride : Experience a jeepney ride, a colorful and iconic mode of public transportation in the Philippines. It’s an adventure and a great way to explore the city.
• Food Adventures : Metro Manila offers a diverse culinary landscape. Don’t miss the chance to savor Filipino specialties like adobo, sinigang, and halo-halo. Explore local markets and street food stalls for authentic flavors.
• Manila Bay Sunset Cruise : Take a relaxing sunset cruise along Manila Bay for stunning views of the city skyline and the iconic sunset. Many dinner cruise options are available.
• Metro Manila is a year-round destination, but the cooler and drier months from December to February are generally considered the best time to visit.
• The culture of Metro Manila is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, American, and Asian influences. You’ll find a mix of traditions, festivals, and languages here.
• Filipino cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors. Explore local eateries and try dishes like adobo (marinated meat), sinigang (sour soup), lechon (roast pig), and halo-halo (dessert). Don’t forget to taste street food like balut (fertilized duck egg) and isaw (grilled chicken or pork intestines).
• Metro Manila offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. You can find luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, budget-friendly hostels, and serviced apartments in different parts of the city.

Metro Manila is a bustling urban hub that offers many experiences, from exploring historical sites to savoring diverse cuisine. Dive into the heart of the Philippines and discover the rich culture, vibrant traditions, and modern amenities that make this region an exciting destination for travelers.

6. Mayon Volcano, Albay: A Majestic Natural Wonder

Mayon Volcano, also known as Mount Mayon, is an icon among the Philippines’ volcanoes due to its near-perfect cone shape. Its breathtaking beauty has made Mayon Volcano tours, like the thrilling Mayon ATV adventure, a must-do for travelers exploring the region.

This majestic volcano rises to an impressive height of 2,462 meters and is situated in the province of Albay, within the picturesque Bicol region at the southeast tip of Luzon island. It proudly holds the title of the Philippines’ most active volcano, having experienced approximately 50 eruptions over the past decades.

Dominating the landscape, Mayon Volcano casts a stunning backdrop, particularly in Legazpi City. Its name derives from ‘magayon,’ a Bicolano term signifying beauty, a fitting description for the breathtaking natural wonder that graces the region.

Suppose you’ve dreamt of witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of Mayon Volcano. In that case, this comprehensive guide is your key to an adventure-packed exploration of one of the Philippines’ premier tourist attractions.

• Cagsawa Ruins : Explore the hauntingly beautiful Cagsawa Ruins, where you can witness the iconic view of Mayon Volcano. These ruins are the remnants of a church that fell victim to the volcano’s destructive eruption in 1814. It’s a poignant testament to the region’s history.
• Mayon 4×4 ATV Ride : Get up close and personal with Mayon Volcano by embarking on a thrilling 4×4 ATV ride. Traverse rice fields, forests, and volcanic rocks as you journey to the mountain’s base. Choose from various trails, each offering breathtaking sights of the volcano.
• Mayon Volcano Hike/Trek/Camp : Trekking up Mayon Volcano is an unforgettable experience for adventurous souls. Hire a knowledgeable guide and explore the Farmer’s Trail, which takes you through lush landscapes, farms, rivers, and gullies. While reaching the summit is restricted due to the volcano’s activity, you can trek up to Camp 2 or even “Rabbit’s Ear,” both of which promise rewarding adventures.
• The best time to visit Mayon Volcano is during the dry months, from March to May. This ensures clearer views and safer outdoor activities.
• The province of Albay, where Mayon Volcano is located, boasts a rich Bicolano culture. Don’t miss the chance to savor spicy Bicolano dishes like Bicol Express and Laing, which showcase the region’s love for chili peppers and coconut milk.
• Albay offers various accommodation options ranging from hotels to guesthouses. Consider staying in Legazpi City, the main hub for exploring Mayon Volcano. Check for accommodations that provide stunning volcano views.

Safety Precautions:

• Mayon Volcano is active, and safety should be a top priority. Before planning your trip, check for warnings and advisories from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
• When exploring the volcano, hire a guide knowledgeable about weather conditions and safety measures in case of unexpected volcanic activity.

Other Nearby Attractions:

• Lignon Hill Nature Park : Enjoy panoramic views of Mayon Volcano and try exhilarating zip-lining at Lignon Hill.
• Sumlang Lake : Experience tranquility on a bamboo raft while admiring the enchanting beauty of Mayon Volcano from Sumlang Lake.
• Kawa Kawa Hill : Climb Kawa Kawa Hill and witness a beautiful sunset at this pilgrimage site.
• Camalig, Albay : Go spelunking in Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave and Calabidongan Cave in Camalig.
• Daraga Church : Discover the historical significance of Daraga Church, a refuge for locals during the 1814 Mayon volcano eruption.
• Misibis Bay Resort : Relax on the sun-soaked white beaches of Misibis Bay Resort.
• Island Hopping : Embark on an island-hopping adventure and explore the underwater world at Guinanayan Island and San Miguel Island.

Mayon Volcano is not just a sight to behold; it’s a gateway to adventure and cultural immersion in the beautiful province of Albay. Whether you’re trekking its slopes, exploring historical sites, or savoring local cuisine, Mayon Volcano offers all travelers a diverse range of experiences.

7. El Nido, Palawan

El Nido in Palawan is a treasure trove of breathtaking natural wonders that rank among the world’s most beautiful destinations. Its hidden lagoons, imposing limestone formations, pristine sandbanks, stunning islands, and powdery white beaches set against crystal-blue waters are just a glimpse of what the Philippines’ 7,641 islands offer. While El Nido’s island hopping tours are the main draw, this little town offers much more.

Things to do in El Nido, Palawan

El Nido, situated at the northern tip of Palawan Island alongside Coron, has become one of the Philippines’ most sought-after travel destinations. Plan for a stay of 3 to 5 days to embrace this place’s beauty fully.

• El Nido Island Hopping Tour : Explore Bacuit Bay, a protected area hosting 45 paradise islands. Tours A, B, C & D offer different island experiences, all equally stunning. Expect stunning lagoons, movie-like islands, and captivating wildlife.
• Duli Beach – Pristine White-Sand Beach : Located in the far northern tip of El Nido, Duli Beach boasts a 2-kilometer stretch of untouched white sand, requiring a minimal entrance fee.
• Rent a Kayak and Discover Secret Beaches : Explore hidden beaches around Cadlao Island or choose a unique experience by renting a clear kayak.
• Corong-Corong Beach Walk : Stroll along Corong-Corong Beach during sunset, offering a tranquil atmosphere and opportunities for delicious Filipino dinners.
• Zipline Between Islands : Experience the thrill of ziplining from one island to another, spanning 750 meters. Nacpan Beach offers this exciting adventure, especially magical around sunset.
• Nacpan Beach, El Nido Palawan : Enjoy one of El Nido’s best beaches, Nacpan Beach. A short motorbike ride from town takes you to this 4-kilometer-long stretch of coastline with swaying coconut trees and fresh seafood.
• Hike Taraw Cliff : Conquer the highest point of El Nido through a challenging 2-hour hike. Ensure you hire a guide and wear appropriate footwear for this adventure, rewarded with incredible panoramic views.

Key Attractions in El Nido :

• Big Lagoon : An iconic destination known for its turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and lush greenery.
• Shimizu Island : A snorkeling paradise with crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life and coral formations.
• Small Lagoon : Accessible by kayak or swimming through a hole, this picturesque lagoon is a nature lover’s dream.
• Seven Commandos Beach is a stunning tropical destination perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing .
• Snake Island : A long S-shaped sandbar connecting the island to the mainland, ideal for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers.
• Hidden Beach : Concealed by limestone rock formations, Hidden Beach offers a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
• Secret Beach : Tucked away behind steep rock walls, Secret Beach offers an exclusive experience accessible only by swimming through a narrow opening.
• Las Cabanas Beach : An ideal spot for watching stunning sunsets, relaxing on golden sands, and enjoying beachfront bars and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit :

El Nido is best visited during the dry months between November and May to enjoy optimal weather for island hopping and outdoor activities.

El Nido, Palawan, promises a spectacular adventure amidst some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes.

8. Coron, Palawan

Coron, a gem among the Philippines’ top tourist destinations, beckons with its tropical paradise vibes and distinctive attractions. While El Nido boasts island-hopping experiences and Puerto Princesa enchants with its underground river tours, Coron stands out with its unique offerings.

Key Attractions in Coron:

• Kayangan Lake : Coron’s crown jewel, Kayangan Lake, is famous for its clear, brackish waters, lush surroundings, and accessibility via a short but steep 10-minute hike—a must-visit attraction known for its remarkable beauty.
• Malcapuya Island : A pristine white-sand beach, Malcapuya Island invites you to bask in the sun and relax on its fine powdery shores, the epitome of a tropical getaway.
• Barracuda Lake : Located near Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake offers a unique diving experience. Its bluish-green waters, thermocline, and the presence of barracuda fish skeletons make it a captivating site for underwater enthusiasts.
• Maquinit Hot Spring : After island-hopping, unwind at Maquinit Hot Spring. Located along the southern area of Busuanga Island, this natural hot spring offers relaxation amidst a rugged landscape and mangrove forest.
• Twin Lagoon : Witness the enchanting convergence of fresh and salty water at Twin Lagoon. The first lagoon welcomes boats, while the second is hidden and accessible by swimming through a narrow opening—Marvel at the crystal-clear waters and towering limestone formations.
• Sunken Japanese Wrecks : Coron Bay is renowned for its rich diving sites, including the Sunken Japanese Wrecks. These twelve sunken ships from World War II offer a glimpse into history and create a captivating underwater exploration.
• Diving and Snorkeling : Explore Coron’s underwater wonders, including coral reefs and historic wrecks.
• Hiking : Besides Kayangan Lake, you can hike to viewpoints for stunning panoramas.
• Cultural Encounters : Interact with locals and learn about the Tagbanua indigenous people’s culture.
• Island-Hopping : Discover secluded beaches, hidden lagoons, and vibrant marine life.
• Tagbanua Culture : Engage with the indigenous Tagbanua people to learn about their traditions, including basket weaving and traditional music.
• Seafood Delights : Savor fresh seafood dishes at local eateries, such as kinilaw (ceviche) and grilled fish.
• Adobo : Try the Filipino favorite adobo, which features meat (often pork or chicken) marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and spices.
• Halo-Halo : Cool down with a refreshing dessert called halo-halo, a mix of crushed ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, and more.

9. Boracay: Breathtaking White Sand Beaches and Crystal-Clear Waters

Boracay, one of the most famous beach destinations in the Philippines, is renowned for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Let’s dive into what makes Boracay a must-visit:

• White Beach : The iconic White Beach stretches 4 kilometers, offering pristine shores and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and stunning sunsets.
• Puka Shell Beach : Known for its coarser sand and Puka shells, this beach provides a quieter escape from the crowds.
• Diniwid Beach : A serene spot adjacent to White Beach, Diniwid is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
• Ariel’s Point : Adventure seekers can cliff dive from various heights into the sea at Ariel’s Point.
• Bulabog Beach : Windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts flock to Bulabog Beach, especially during the windy season.
• Island-Hopping : Explore nearby islands, like Crystal Cove Island and Crocodile Island, to snorkel, swim, and discover hidden caves.
• Helmet Diving : Walk on the ocean floor and interact with marine life wearing a special diving helmet.
• Paraw Sailing : Hop on a traditional Filipino sailboat, called a paraw, for a picturesque sunset cruise.
• Spider House : Enjoy a drink at Spider House, a famous bar built on the cliffs, offering breathtaking views.

From November to April, the dry season is the best time to visit Boracay. You’ll encounter sunny days and calm waters during this period. However, it’s essential to consider your preferences: the peak season (December to May) offers a vibrant nightlife, while the off-peak season (June to October) provides a quieter atmosphere and lower prices.

• Ati-Atihan Festival : If you’re lucky to visit in January, join the Ati-Atihan Festival, a lively celebration featuring colorful costumes and street dancing.
• Seafood Galore : Boracay is known for its fresh seafood. Try dishes like grilled squid, kinilaw (ceviche), and the day’s local catch.
• Chori Burger : Savor the unique Boracay Chori Burger, a flavorful combination of chorizo and burger.
• Night Market : Explore D’Talipapa, a seafood market where you can buy fresh seafood and cook it at nearby restaurants.

Boracay offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences:

• Luxury Resorts : Stay at high-end resorts like Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa or The Lind Boracay for top-notch amenities and service.
• Mid-Range Hotels : Options like Henann Garden Resort and Discovery Shores Boracay provide comfort without breaking the bank.
• Budget-Friendly : Hostels and guesthouses like Frendz Resort Boracay cater to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
• Boutique Stays : Explore boutique hotels like Coast Boracay or La Isla Bonita de Boracay for a unique experience.

Boracay’s accommodation choices ensure a comfortable stay, whether you’re looking for luxury, affordability, or a charming boutique retreat.

Boracay’s stunning beaches, water activities, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cuisine guarantee a memorable vacation. Whether unwinding on White Beach, diving into thrilling adventures, or savoring local seafood delights, Boracay offers a delightful escape for all types of travelers.

Additional Information: When booking flights to Boracay, it’s essential to comply with the local travel requirements. Having a confirmed booking with a Department of Tourism-accredited hotel on the island is a crucial step to ensure a smooth entry and a hassle-free experience on the stunning island of Boracay.

10. Siquijor: A Hidden Gem in the Philippines

Siquijor, a relatively lesser-known gem in the Philippines, offers a serene escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This small island province, located in the Central Visayas region, boasts pristine beaches, lush forests, mystical legends, and a rich local culture. Here’s a straightforward guide to Siquijor:

Key Attractions :

• Salagdoong Beach : Salagdoong is famous for its crystal-clear waters and thrilling cliff diving spots. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to relax on the beach, this spot has it all.
• Cambugahay Falls : A series of tiered waterfalls, Cambugahay offers a refreshing swim amidst nature. You can also swing on the Tarzan vines for an adventurous experience.
• Lazi Convent and Church : Visit the century-old San Isidro Labrador Church and its adjacent convent, both made from coral stones. These historical structures offer a glimpse into Siquijor’s colonial past.
• Mystical Balete Tree : Encounter the famous 400-year-old Balete tree, believed to be enchanted. You can even enjoy a natural fish spa as tiny fish nibble at your feet in the tree’s spring.

Unique Experiences :

• Firefly Watching : Take a nighttime boat tour along the Locong River to witness the enchanting display of fireflies. It’s a magical experience that will leave you in awe.
• Trek to Mt. Bandilaan : Hike up the highest peak in Siquijor, Mount Bandilaan. Enjoy panoramic views of the island and explore the mystical atmosphere of the forest.
• Healing Massages and Therapies : Siquijor is known for its traditional healers and folk remedies. Consider trying a traditional “hilot” massage or consulting with a local healer for a unique cultural experience.

Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Siquijor is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During this period, you’ll enjoy sunny weather and calm seas, perfect for exploring the island and its attractions.

Local Culture and Cuisine : Siquijor has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Spanish and indigenous traditions. Explore local markets to savor Filipino dishes like “sinigang” (sour soup) and fresh seafood. Don’t forget to try “salakot,” a local coconut wine.

Accommodation Options : Siquijor offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to boutique resorts. Some popular areas to stay include San Juan for beachfront resorts and Siquijor town for easy access to the island’s attractions.

Additional Information : Siquijor is known for its mystical reputation, with tales of witchcraft and sorcery. While these stories add to the island’s allure, Siquijor is a peaceful and welcoming destination. Respect local customs and traditions, and you’ll discover the true beauty of this hidden paradise.

Plan your trip to Siquijor for a unique and tranquil experience in the heart of the Philippines.

11. Cebu: Dive to the Heart of the Philippines

Cebu, often called the “Queen City of the South,” is a bustling and culturally rich province in the central Philippines. It offers a mix of historical sites, natural wonders, vibrant festivals, and a taste of the Philippines’ unique culture. Here’s a straightforward guide to Cebu:

• Magellan’s Cross : Visit this historical landmark in Cebu City, which marks the spot where Ferdinand Magellan planted a cross in 1521. It’s a symbol of Cebu’s conversion to Christianity.
• Cebu’s Beaches : Explore the pristine beaches of Cebu, including Mactan Island, Bantayan Island, and Moalboal. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will find abundant marine life.
• Oslob Whale Shark Watching : Head to Oslob to swim with gentle giants, the whale sharks. This is a unique and unforgettable experience.
• Taoist Temple : Discover the intricate architecture and serene ambiance of the Taoist Temple in Cebu City. It’s a place for reflection and offers panoramic views of the city.
• Malapascua Island : For a serene island getaway, go to Malapascua Island. It’s renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and as a diving paradise, especially for thresher shark encounters. The island’s laid-back vibe and crystal-clear waters make it a hidden gem.
• Bantayan Island : Located northwest of Cebu, Bantayan Island is a haven for beach lovers. Enjoy the powdery white sands of Santa Fe Beach and relax in the island’s tranquil atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
• Temple of Leah : The Temple of Leah is a grandiose structure in Cebu City, built to symbolize love and devotion. Its Greco-Roman architecture and commanding views of the city make it a unique and romantic place to visit.
• IT Park : Cebu IT Park, also known as Cebu Business Park, is a bustling urban hub in Cebu City. It’s a business district and a lively place for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Explore the local food scene or take a stroll in the park.
• Mactan Island : Mactan Island, connected to Cebu by bridges, is famous for its beach resorts, water sports activities, and historical sites. It’s an excellent choice for water enthusiasts and those looking for luxury accommodations.
• Sardine Run in Moalboal : Witness the incredible phenomenon of thousands of sardines forming massive schools in Moalboal’s waters. Snorkel or dive alongside them for a surreal experience.
• Kawasan Falls Canyoneering : Embark on an adrenaline-pumping canyoneering adventure at Kawasan Falls in Badian. You’ll jump off waterfalls and traverse narrow canyons.
• Local Festivals : If your visit coincides with one, don’t miss the Sinulog Festival in January, an extravagant celebration of Cebu’s rich history and devotion to the Santo Niño.

Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Cebu is during the dry season, typically from December to April. This period offers sunny weather and is perfect for outdoor activities and beach trips.

Local Culture and Cuisine : Cebuano culture is deeply rooted in Spanish influence, reflected in their festivals, architecture, and cuisine. Try local dishes like “lechon” (roast pig), “puso” (hanging rice), tuslob-buwa (pig brains that look like gravy), Ngohiong (a delicious deep-fried dish), Ginabot (deep-fried intestines), and “sutukil” (a combination of grilled seafood). Don’t forget to savor “danggit” (dried fish) as a souvenir.

Accommodation Options : Cebu offers various accommodation options to suit various budgets. You’ll find luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and mid-range boutique hotels in Cebu City. For a beachside retreat, explore the resorts in Mactan or head to more secluded areas like Bantayan Island.

Additional Information : Cebuano locals are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community. Respect local customs and traditions, and you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

Whether you’re an adventurer, history enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation on pristine shores, Cebu has something to offer every traveler. Explore the heart of the Philippines and make lasting memories in this vibrant province.

12. Bohol: Your Gateway to Chocolate Hills and Cultural Riches

Bohol, an island province in the Philippines, offers a diverse range of attractions that will leave any traveler in awe. From its famous Chocolate Hills to the enchanting tarsiers, Bohol is a destination that combines natural beauty with cultural heritage.

• Chocolate Hills : Bohol’s most iconic feature is these mysterious mounds of perfectly cone-shaped hills. Visit the Chocolate Hills Complex for a panoramic view and learn about their geological origins.
• Tarsier Sanctuary : Bohol is home to the world’s smallest tarsier primate. Visit the Tarsier Conservation Area to see these tiny, wide-eyed creatures in their natural habitat.
• Loboc River Cruise : Take a leisurely cruise along the Loboc River while enjoying a buffet lunch and live music. The lush surroundings and serene river make it a relaxing experience.
• Panglao Island : Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life, it is perfect for snorkeling and diving. Alona Beach is a popular spot for beach lovers.
• Hinagdanan Cave : Explore the unique rock formations and underground pools of Hinagdanan Cave. It’s an otherworldly experience within the island’s interior.
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Loboc River : Try stand-up paddleboarding on the tranquil Loboc River, surrounded by the island’s lush greenery.
• Firefly Watching : Take a boat tour at night to witness the magical display of fireflies illuminating the mangrove trees along the riverbanks.
• Man-Made Forest : Drive through the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a serene stretch of mahogany trees that create a mesmerizing canopy.

Bohol is best visited during the dry season, typically from November to April. The weather is more predictable, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

Local Culture and Cuisine :

Bohol is known for its warm and welcoming locals. You can immerse yourself in the island’s culture by attending festivals like Sandugo Festival, commemorating the Blood Compact between the Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna in 1565.

As for cuisine, don’t miss out on trying local dishes like “lechon,” a roasted pig, and “kakanin,” a variety of rice cakes. Bohol is also famous for its peanut-based products, including peanut kisses and peanut butter.

Accommodation Options :

Bohol offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. In popular areas like Panglao Island and Tagbilaran City, you can find beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, and guesthouses. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Bohol is a destination that seamlessly blends natural wonders with cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring the Chocolate Hills or encountering tarsiers up close, Bohol promises a memorable experience that captures the heart of the Philippines. Enjoy your journey through this captivating island province!

13. Siargao: Your Tropical Paradise Awaits

Siargao, a small but enchanting island in the Philippines, is a dream destination for beach lovers, surf enthusiasts, and nature seekers. This laid-back paradise uniquely blends natural beauty, water adventures, and vibrant local culture.

• Cloud 9 : Known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” Cloud 9 in Siargao is famous for its world-class waves. Even if you’re not a surfer, the boardwalk area provides a stunning view of the surfers.
• Magpupungko Rock Pools : These natural rock pools are a marvel of nature. During low tide, you can dip in crystal-clear waters surrounded by fascinating rock formations.
• Sugba Lagoon : Experience the serene Sugba Lagoon, where you can paddleboard, kayak, or swim in the tranquil waters. The lush mangrove surroundings add to its charm.
• General Luna Beach : This pristine beach is perfect for a stroll or sunbathing. You can also witness stunning sunsets here.
• Tayangban Cave Pool : Venture into a unique cave system where you can swim in clear waters illuminated by natural skylights. It’s a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.
• Island-Hopping : Explore the nearby islets like Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. Each offers a different flavor of tropical beauty.
• Island Tour : Discover Siargao’s inner beauty by taking a land tour. Visit the iconic coconut tree viewpoint and explore the lush landscapes.
• Nightlife at General Luna : Siargao’s vibrant nightlife scene, centered around General Luna, offers beachfront bars and live music, creating a lively atmosphere after dark.

The best time to visit Siargao is during the dry season, which usually runs from March to September. This is when you can enjoy the island’s sunny weather, calm waters, and ideal surfing conditions.

Siargao’s culture is deeply rooted in Filipino traditions, and the locals are known for their warm hospitality. Immerse yourself in the island’s culture by attending local fiestas and events. Don’t miss learning about traditional fishing practices and coconut harvesting.

Regarding cuisine, Siargao offers a delectable array of fresh seafood. Try the local specialty, “kinilaw,” a Filipino ceviche made with fresh fish or seafood marinated in vinegar and spices. The island’s diverse culinary scene allows you to savor various international dishes.

Siargao offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. You’ll find many choices, from beachfront resorts to cozy hostels and boutique hotels, especially in the General Luna area. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Siargao is a tropical paradise that beckons travelers with its natural wonders and vibrant culture. Whether catching waves at Cloud 9 or exploring the hidden lagoons and caves, Siargao promises a memorable and relaxing getaway. Dive into the beauty of this enchanting island and create lasting memories in this corner of paradise.

14. Samal Island, Davao: Your Island Getaway

Samal Island, located just off the coast of Davao City in the Philippines, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life make it the perfect destination for a tropical escape.

• Hagimit Falls : This stunning waterfall is tucked away in a lush forest. You can take a refreshing dip in its cool waters or enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds it.
• Island-Hopping : Explore the nearby islets, such as Talikud Island, where you can snorkel and witness vibrant coral reefs. Don’t miss a visit to Coral Garden, known for its underwater wonders.
• Maxima Aqua Fun : For adventure seekers, Maxima Aqua Fun offers exhilarating activities like cliff diving and giant slides. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience with breathtaking views.
• Monfort Bat Sanctuary : Samal Island is home to one of the world’s largest colonies of fruit bats. Visit the sanctuary and witness thousands of bats in their natural habitat.
• Pearl Farm Beach Resort : You can visit its day tour package even if you’re not staying at this upscale resort. Enjoy their white sand beach, infinity pool, and water sports activities.
• Spelunking : Explore the fascinating caves on the island, such as the Monfort Bat Cave and the Mangongawong Cave. These caves offer a sense of adventure and intriguing rock formations.
• Sunset Cruises : Set sail on a sunset cruise and witness the stunning hues of the Philippine sunset over the tranquil waters of Samal Island.
• Fruit Picking : Samal Island is known for its abundant fruit orchards. You can go fruit picking and savor the freshest tropical fruits right from the trees.

The best time to visit Samal Island is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This is when you can enjoy sunny weather and calm seas, perfect for island-hopping and beach activities. However, Samal Island is a year-round destination, so you can plan your visit according to your preferences.

Samal Island’s culture is deeply rooted in Filipino traditions, and the locals are known for their warm hospitality. You can experience the island’s culture by attending local festivals and events like the Kasilak Festival, celebrated in June.

When it comes to cuisine, indulge in fresh seafood. Samal Island offers various seafood dishes, from grilled fish to kinilaw (Filipino ceviche). Don’t miss trying the local seafood restaurants for an authentic taste of Samal’s flavors.

Samal Island offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. From beachfront resorts to budget-friendly cottages and homestays, you’ll find a variety of choices. The Pearl Farm Beach Resort is a luxurious option for those seeking a premium experience. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Samal Island, Davao, is a tropical paradise that promises relaxation and adventure in equal measure. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring caves, or snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, Samal Island offers a memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Dive into the beauty of this tranquil island and create lasting memories in its serene surroundings.

15. Bukidnon: Nature’s Playground

Welcome to Bukidnon, a province in the Philippines where nature takes center stage. Located on the island of Mindanao, Bukidnon offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Here’s what you need to know:

• Dahilayan Adventure Park : This park is a must-visit if you crave adventure. It offers a range of thrilling activities, including Asia’s longest dual zipline and a dropzone for the ultimate adrenaline rush.
• Kaamulan Festival : Experience Bukidnon’s rich culture and traditions at the Kaamulan Festival. This annual event showcases tribal dances, music, and colorful costumes, providing a glimpse into the province’s indigenous heritage.
• Mt. Kitanglad Range : Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to hike up Mt. Kitanglad, one of the highest peaks in the Philippines. It’s a challenging but rewarding trek with lush forests and diverse wildlife.
• Del Monte Pineapple Plantation : Bukidnon is known for its vast pineapple plantations, and Del Monte’s plantation offers tours where you can see how these tropical fruits are cultivated and processed.
• Monastery of the Transfiguration : This peaceful monastery, known for its modernist architecture and serene surroundings, is a place for reflection and meditation.
• Impasug-ong Ridges : Impasug-ong Ridges offers a unique trekking experience for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure. These undulating hills and ridges provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s a quieter alternative to Bukidnon’s more popular hiking destinations, allowing you to connect with nature in serenity. The trekking trails here vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking vistas along the way.
• KD2 Peaks : For the avid hiker, the KD2 Peaks, also known as Kitanglad and Dulang-Dulang Peaks, present an exhilarating challenge. Mount Kitanglad and Mount Dulang-Dulang are the second and third-highest peaks in the Philippines, respectively. Conquering these peaks is a rigorous adventure that rewards you with unparalleled views from the summit. The journey involves traversing lush forests, navigating rugged terrains, and summiting these majestic mountains. Be prepared with proper gear, stamina, and a sense of adventure for this demanding yet rewarding trek.
• Mount Kalatungan : Mount Kalatungan is another prominent peak in Bukidnon and is part of the Kitanglad Mountain Range. It’s known for its challenging yet rewarding trekking routes. Hiking enthusiasts are drawn to Mount Kalatungan for its lush forests, diverse flora and fauna, and the sense of accomplishment of conquering its summit. The trek usually takes multiple days, so ensure you’re well-prepared with essential hiking gear and supplies.
• White Water Rafting : Challenge the Cagayan de Oro River rapids near Bukidnon. White water rafting is an exhilarating adventure that offers a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty.
• Horseback Riding in Pineapple Plantations : Explore the pineapple plantations on horseback for a scenic and leisurely experience. It’s a great way to soak in the picturesque landscapes.
• Visit a Lumad Village : Connect with the indigenous communities of Bukidnon, such as the Talaandig and Higaonon tribes. Learn about their way of life, traditions, and crafts.

The best time to visit Bukidnon is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This is when you can enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring. However, December to February is ideal if you prefer a cooler climate. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

Bukidnon is home to several indigenous groups, including the Bukidnon Lumads. To immerse yourself in the local culture, attend cultural events and festivals like Kaamulan. Taste traditional dishes like “linarang” (fish stew) and “inunan” (grilled chicken). Don’t forget to try the region’s famous pineapple, known for its sweetness.

Accommodation in Bukidnon ranges from budget-friendly lodges to mid-range hotels and resorts. You’ll find options in the cities of Malaybalay and Valencia. If you’re an eco-conscious traveler, consider staying in eco-friendly resorts uniquely connecting to nature.

Bukidnon beckons travelers with its lush landscapes, exciting adventures, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a tranquil retreat, this province has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and explore the natural wonders of Bukidnon for an unforgettable journey.

Your Philippines Travel Safety and Practical Tips

Traveling to the Philippines can be a fantastic experience, but like any other destination, it’s essential to stay informed and take precautions for a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. It’s a safety net in case of unexpected events.
• Research the local laws and customs of the Philippines before your trip. Respect the local culture and traditions, including dress codes when visiting religious sites.
• The Philippines can be prone to typhoons and earthquakes. Check the weather forecast and any travel advisories before heading to your destination. Always follow local authorities’ advice in case of severe weather.
• Exercise caution in crowded places, especially in major cities. Be mindful of your belongings, and use anti-theft bags or pouches to protect your valuables from pickpockets.
• Use reputable transportation services, and avoid unlicensed or unofficial taxis. Ensure that the vehicles are in good condition and drivers use meters.
• Enjoy the delicious Filipino cuisine, but be cautious about street food vendors’ hygiene. Drink bottled or purified water to avoid stomach issues.
• Purchase a local SIM card with data to stay connected and use navigation apps. Having a local phone number can also help book accommodations and tours.

Emergency Contacts :

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including the nearest embassy or consulate, local emergency numbers, and your country’s embassy contact details. Share your travel itinerary with a trusted person back home.

Travel Alerts :

Sign up for travel alerts or notifications from your government’s travel advisory service. This will provide you with real-time information on safety and security in the Philippines.

Flexibility :

Be prepared for itinerary changes or delays due to unforeseen circumstances. Have a flexible travel plan to adapt to any unexpected developments.

By staying informed, following safety guidelines, and being flexible in your travel plans, you can have a memorable and safe trip to the Philippines in 2023.

Conclusion: Enjoy your 2023 Philippine Tour – Your Ultimate Adventure Awaits!

In conclusion, the Philippines is a treasure trove of natural wonders, cultural gems, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking thrilling dives in Coron, a nature enthusiast marveling at the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, a beach lover basking in the white sands of Boracay, or a history buff exploring the National Museum of the Philippines, this diverse archipelago has something for everyone.

2023 is the perfect time to explore the Philippines, and with numerous tour packages and travel guides available, planning your trip has never been easier. From the vibrant streets of Manila to the remote beauty of Batanes, you’ll find a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty that will leave you in awe.

So, pack your bags, book your flights, and prepare for a lifetime adventure. The Philippines is calling; your ultimate adventure awaits in this tropical paradise. Don’t miss out on the top things to see and do in this captivating country. Check out more articles on our website to plan your perfect Philippine adventure.

Similar Posts

Best Day Trip Destinations in Nebraska

From its quaint beautiful city spots to its historically fascinating natural destinations, Nebraska has been a criminally underrated tourist…

The Ultimate Guide To Fun And Exciting Things To Do In Hawaii – 2023 Bucket List Revealed!

Planning an unforgettable trip to Hawaii in 2023? This paradise promises thrilling adventures and serene relaxation, but deciding what activities to…

Unforgettable Experiences: the Best Places to Visit in Kentucky

Kentucky, a state renowned for its unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, stands out as…

15 Best Hotels in Hawaii 2023: Uncover the Ultimate Island Resort Escape

Welcome to your ultimate guide to the best resorts and hotels in Hawaii. We’re here to cut through the…

Poll Shocker: Top Priority When Choosing a Travel Destination

Ever wondered what motivates travelers when they’re choosing their next adventure? Is it the allure of exotic cuisine, adrenaline-pumping…

Discover the Best of Fort Collins: Your Ultimate Guide to Things to Do

Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins is a beautiful city in Colorado that has something…

• Pingback: The Best Countries to Visit this December | Take More Adventures
• Pingback: 5 ways to travel the world for free | Take More Adventures

Comments are closed.

Pin It on Pinterest

• Philippines

15 Best Tourist Spots in the Philippines

As we all know, and I’m sure that you do, the Philippines is home to some of the world’s best and finest tourist attractions you can ever find. All of our country’s 7,641 islands are absolutely worth visiting because each of them offers a stunning surprise that will make you fall in love with the Philippines even more.

We are blessed with countless natural wonders that are simply breathtaking that you shouldn’t miss the chance to witness their beauty at least once in your life. We also have world-class islands such as El Nido, Coron , Siargao, and Boracay that attract tourists from different parts of the world!

Aside from our country’s never-ending list of tourist attractions, we Filipinos are also known for our warm culture and hospitality that foreigners absolutely love. No matter where you’re from, Filipinos will surely make you feel at home. On top of all that, Filipinos are also known to make some of the most amazing food in the world! The food culture in the country is unrivaled and I’m sure that wherever you go, your taste buds will always be satisfied.

The Philippines has a lot of things to offer to everyone. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a solo backpacker, a history buff, or a food connoisseur, you will have the best time of your life in our country. So, are you ready? Come and join me as I help you discover the 15 Best Tourist Spots in the Philippines!

Located in the beautiful province of Surigao Del Norte is a teardrop-shaped island considered to be the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. There’s no doubt that this tropical paradise is the hottest and most in-demand tourist destination in the country right now! Yes, Siargao Island is currently on the top of the list of the best tourist destinations in the Philippines. More and more tourists from different parts of the world are going crazy thanks to the island’s extraordinary natural features, rich culture, and friendly community.

Photo by Alejandro Luengo on Unsplash

Siargao has all kinds of fun and exciting activities prepared for you and I’m sure that you’ll definitely have a good time. Of course, there’s surfing, kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, and many more! But the best part about Siargao is that the island has an endless list of surprises that are yet to be discovered.

Breathtaking white-sand beaches, sparkling waterfalls, majestic mountains, stunning cave systems, and many more are all waiting to make your memorable Siargao trip even more exciting! Some of the must-visit attractions you shouldn’t miss on the island are Cloud 9 Siargao, Magpupungko Rock Pools , and the famous Sohoton Cove National Park.

Siargao is still in the process of developing the island’s establishments and infrastructure to maximize its potential in tourism. So if you want to experience Siargao in its pristine and finest condition, then I suggest that you book a tour now! Trust me, it’s going to be one of the best decisions you’ve made in your life.

Ah, of course! Boracay still remains as one of the supreme icons of Philippine tourism. Known all over the world for its pristine white-sand beaches, Boracay grew to be the favorite beach destination of countless tourists from different parts of the world.

More than its extraordinary natural features, Boracay became a premier tourist destination because of the multiple world-class hotels and resorts offering top-notch accommodation services and all the exciting activities you could ever ask for. There’s island hopping, scuba diving, kayaking, swimming, and more!

From its mesmerizing sunsets to crystalline turquoise waters and long stretches of white-sand beaches, Boracay is truly a tropical paradise worth visiting in the Philippines.

3. Batad Rice Terraces in Ifugao

The truly picturesque and breathtaking view of Batad Rice Terraces has got to be one of the Philippines’ treasured gems. The unparalleled beauty of these rice terraces was recognized to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. That fact alone will already give you an idea of how amazing the sights really are!

Batad Rice, Terraces

These awe-inspiring rice terraces were carved and constructed about 2,000 years ago yet it is still perfectly preserved and fully functional to this day. Aside from Batad Rice Terraces’ aesthetic view, more and more tourists are also falling in love with the lovely community behind the landmark. Moreover, it also houses the rich culture and history of the Ifugao tribes residing in the mountains surrounding the rice terraces.

Read the Blog Post: Batad Banaue Ifugao Travel Guide

4. El Nido, Palawan

Another world-class tourist destination you should absolutely visit in the Philippines is no other than El Nido, Palawan. Known for its white-sand beaches, heavenly lagoons, and dramatic black limestone cliffs, El Nido is the best choice for those who want to cast themselves away and enjoy a peaceful escape from reality.

El Nido’s island hopping tours are some of the most magical and enchanting experiences you can ever encounter in the world. Each island possesses a unique beauty that will leave you stunned for a lifetime. That’s why there’s absolutely no doubt how El Nido became one of the best islands in the world.

El Nido has an endless list of tourist attractions you definitely shouldn’t miss including Nacpan Beach , Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island.

READ THE BLOG POST: El Nido Palawan Experience and Guide

5. Coron, Palawan

Next up, another tropical treasure of the beautiful island of Palawan is Coron which is known for its world-class wreck diving sites filled with abundant marine and aquatic life. Coron’s crystal clear waters are famous for diving enthusiasts all over the world. Aside from its premier diving spots, the island is best known for its stunning white-sand beaches, karst limestone cliffs, evergreen forests, and magical islands.

Photo by David Köhler on Unsplash

Aside from Coron’s breathtaking natural wonders, the island is also blessed with thriving wildlife and marine biodiversity. The island preserves its pristine condition making it a perfect habitat for multiple species of birds, mammals, reptiles, fishes, and coral reefs. On top of all that, the community in Coron, Palawan is also very friendly and accommodating, making it a suitable place for adventurers and nature lovers.

Some of Coron’s best tourist attractions are Busuanga Island, Banol Beach, and the magical Coron Bay where you can find some of the most popular Japanese shipwrecks surrounded by majestic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.

6. Cebu Island

Cebu Island is the largest island in the Visayas which is known for its rich Spanish colonial history and is blessed with multiple natural wonders such as majestic mountains, rolling hills, sparkling rivers, falls, and many more. It is also where you can find the iconic Queen City of the South, the island’s capital city, Cebu which is one of the country’s largest metropolises.

Photo by Olga Tsai on Unsplash

Given its particularly rich history, Cebu Island has become a top tourist destination because of its multicultural heritage. From its thriving food culture, countless natural attractions, historical landmarks, and overall incredible experience, Cebu should be on your list for the Philippines’ top tourist destinations.

Photo by Jessa Marie Pedrola on Unsplash

Cebu Island’s most notable and must-visit destinations include Kawasan Falls, Camotes Island, and the enchanting Moalboal Island which is truly a glimpse of a stunning tropical paradise.

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Beach Resorts in Cebu 

7. Balabac Islands

Ah, and there it is. Nestled in the south-westernmost and farthermost tip of Palawan lies a secluded island filled with everything that describes paradise on earth. Balacbac Islands is a small group of islands that houses several untouched islets bathing in the crystal clear waters of the Sulu Sea and surrounded by stunning white-sand beaches. Balacbac Islands truly offers a mind-blowing out-of-this-world experience to everyone taking the chance and effort to visit its unspoiled beauty.

Photo by Cris Tagupa on Unsplash

Balacbac Islands is also home to a wide variety of species of animals and plants that make the islands even more beautiful. Prepare yourself to be in awe of everything that Balacbac has to offer because rarely do you get a chance to experience the beauty of nature in its finest condition like this one.

Ah, Batanes is known as the northernmost province of the Philippines. Over the years, Batanes was struck by powerful typhoons causing extreme winds and strong waves to destroy houses each time. This made the locals adapt and in turn construct houses entirely made of stones. That’s why when you visit Batanes, it’s like you’re in a completely different country because of the picture-perfect postcard setting of the province.

Photo by Rene Padillo on Unsplash

The rolling hills, deep blue waters of the Pacific, lighthouses, and the gigantic boulders will make you fall in love and appreciate the simple way of life being practiced in Batanes. The reason why you need to visit and personally witness Batanes’ picturesque beauty is actually simple. It’s simply amazing.

9. Vigan, Ilocos Sur

We all know that the Philippines is a multicultural nation thanks to the countless years of war and colonialism that shaped our history. Our country was under the Spanish Colonial government for 333 years and that’s why they had a huge impact on our culture as Filipinos. And do you know where you can catch a glimpse of the Old World Spanish Colonial Era version of the Philippines? That’s right. Only here at Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Vigan is known for its perfectly-preserved Spanish Colonial buildings and churches. It is so beautiful that walking around the iconic Calle Crisologo will make you feel like you’re traveling back in time and walking along with the forefathers of our nation. Aside from the truly aesthetic vibes of Vigan, the city is also known for its amazing culture which attracts tourists from different parts of the world.

From discovering hidden gems of antique shops, restaurants, and cafes, you will never get tired of exploring the breathtaking beauty of this U NESCO World Heritage Site .

If you’re looking for some of the most amazing sights and sceneries atop the Philippines’ highest mountain ranges, then Sagada is definitely the perfect place for you. Sagada is a small town in the Cordillera Mountains known for its breathtaking natural attractions and exciting activities for everyone. It is a haven for hikers and trekkers that love the thrill of adventure and rewarding themselves with heavenly views atop the mountains.

Photo by Aldrino on Unsplash

Sagada is also blessed with several natural wonders such as massive caves, sparkling waterfalls, rivers, and cliffs that attract tourists from different parts of the country. That’s why when you visit Sagada, prepare to engage yourself in countless fun and exciting activities such as swimming, waterfall hiking, spelunking, and food trips all day long!

In the Philippines, when we talk about Bohol, there’s only one thing that automatically comes to mind and that’s the majestic beauty of the Chocolate Hills. Trust me, there’s a reason why these jaw-dropping hills are visited by tourists from the farthest parts of the planet and it’s truly worth it. For those who don’t know, the reason why it’s called the Chocolate Hills is because of the color of the hills that changes to brown during the rainy season.

Another reason why tourists visit Bohol is that it’s the only place in the world where the world’s smallest primate, the Tarsier, can be seen. Moreover, Bohol is also known to be blessed with several natural wonders such as majestic islands, evergreen forests, sparkling rivers, rice terraces, and many more!

If you’re ever in Bohol, be sure to not miss the chance of visiting Panglao Island, the Loboc River, and the breathtaking Hinagdanan Cave!

Read the blog post: 10 Best Beach Resorts in Bohol

12. Intramuros, Manila

Located in the capital city Manila, this secluded place filled with countless stories significant in Philippine culture and history will give you an Old World vibe during your visit. Intramuros is known as the Walled City because it is literally surrounded by walls that are meant to protect the Spanish government from enemies.

Photo Credit: Agustin Rafael Reyes via Compfight, Creative Commons

Inside the Walled City are precious Spanish Colonial buildings that served a great purpose during the 333-year rule of Spain over our country. Well-preserved monasteries, government buildings, and schools are situated inside Intramuros that today serve the Filipino people in many ways. Today, Intramuros has become a popular tourist destination that enables visitors to have a glimpse of the Philippines’ rich culture and history.

Oh, and aside from the Walled City’s historical significance, it is also filled with countless shops and restaurants that exude an aesthetic vibe to everyone who’s visiting! You can also ride the kalesa while exploring around, so don’t miss out!

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Tourist Spots in Intramuros, Manila

13. Mayon Volcano, Albay

The Mayon Volcano ( Albay ) of the Philippines is truly one of the country’s most iconic tourist destinations. Mayon is known all over the world as the volcano that has the most perfect and symmetrical cone-shaped features. Despite the continuous danger that it imposes being the most active volcano in the Philippines, Mayon Volcano has remained as a must-visit tourist attraction in the country.

Mayon Troop!

Photo by Cojo Rosales on Unsplash

Due to the volcano covering a massive area, it has also become the home of many endangered animal and plant species. Moreover, tourists are also in for fun and exciting adventures revolving around the Mayon Volcano such as ATV rides, hiking, trekking, and many more!

READ THE BLOG POST: Albay Tourist Spots in One Day

14. Tubbataha Reef, Palawan

Finally, another gem located off the coast of Palawan is the iconic Tubbataha Reef. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to millions of species of stunning coral reefs and marine biodiversity that will simply blow your mind. The reef is located in the middle of the Sulu Sea and is currently considered a protected area.

Credit: Philippine Tourism USA

The Tubbataha Reef is truly a heavenly place and recognized as the number one (1) diving site in the country where you can witness the astonishing sight of large marine animals like sea turtles, manta rays, and shark species. Trust me, scuba diving in the Tubbataha Reef is a life-changing experience that you will forever remember for the rest of your life.

15. Rizal Park, Manila

Of course, visiting the most important historical landmark in the entire country should definitely be on your list. Rizal Park is one of the largest urban parks in Asia covering a wide area of 60 hectares. Also known as Luneta, this park is a shrine dedicated to the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Exploring the huge park will truly give you a glimpse of the Philippines’ rich history because you can visit some historical landmarks such as the statue of Dr. Jose Rizal, Lapu-Lapu, and the National Museum of the Philippines .

Rizal Park is also the perfect chance for tourists to walk around in peace and discover some popular attractions like the Manila Orchidarium, Central Lagoon, and the Chess Plaza where you can challenge your wits and brains in the game of Chess with random strangers.

 previous

15 Best ABRA Tourist Spots (Waterfalls, Caves and More)

newer 

15 Best Beaches in the Philippines

You might also like.

How to get to Masasa Beach in Tingloy, Batangas

Santa Ana, Cagayan: A booming attraction & investment hub

Tikling Island : The Pinkish White Beach of Matnog, Sorsogon

One comment.

Armando A. Suñe

You included Rizal Park but you forgot about ILOILO CITY. ILOILO CITY has plenty of well-maintained Spanish and American era plazas,parks, open squares with monuments to heroes and patriots, and its riverside garden Esplanades are about as big in hectarage as the Rizal Park. If history and antiquity is your interest, ILOILO CITY has the most number of museums and art galleries among the cities south of Manila. ILOILO’s delicious cuisine has iconic dishes that are famous nationwide: La Paz Batchoy, Pancit Molo, Villa Chicken Inasal ( which started to become popular since WWII). The delicious Fresh Lumpia Ubod rolls was first time concocted in Molo District where the old Chinese population lived during the Spanish period, and was known as the Parian, much like Binondo. ILOILO CITY has lately become a favorite convention destination because of its besuty, cleanliness, orderliness, and plentiful attractions like it’s numerous Spanish and American era heritage buildings, grand palatial mansions , beautiful Spanish era cathedrals and churches, beautiful bridges, fountains and belfries. ILOILO CITY should be included in the list of the best tourist places in the Philippines.On January 25, 2020, ILOILO CITY received the ASEAN CLEAN TOURIST CITY AWARD 2020-2022 from an ASEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Privacy overview.

Home » Travel Guides » The Philippines » 25 Best Things to Do in The Philippines

25 Best Things to Do in The Philippines

The Philippines  is a remarkable country made up of more than 7,000 islands. It is a country with a fast growing population and has a whole array of natural elements to contend with. There are 20 active volcano’s throughout the islands and the area is also prone to typhoons and other harsh weather conditions.

Despite these issues there is a truly beautiful country to explore here with many natural wonders to be seen. If you are looking for a country like no other then take a look at the 25 best things to do in the Philippines .

1. Chill Out For A Few Days In Boracay

The island of Boracay in the Philippines has become famous around the world for its beautiful white beaches. The island is only 7km in length and at its narrowest just 500m wide but people flock here for the outstanding beauty that the island offers. The main attraction is White Beach that has a 4km stretch of white sand that is surrounded by restaurants, hotels and diving shops. There is always a party happening on the island with fire shows and live music giving revelers an evening of non stop entertainment. Over the years the development of the island has continued but there are still plenty of places to relax and thoroughly enjoy yourself.

2. See The Beauty Of The Banaue Rice Terraces

Many people consider the Banaue Rice Terraces to be the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and it is easy to see why when you begin to look at their shear magnificence. The terraces are 2,000 years old and they were carved into the mountains of Lfugao with the use of very few tools. The terraces are still used today by the locals who plant their vegetables and rice there, as they are naturally irrigated by the surrounding rainforests.

3. Marvel At The Wonder Of San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church is located in Manila and is an incredible building that was built during the Spanish Colonial Period. The church is the third building that has been erected in this space as the first and second churches were both made of wood and destroyed by fire.  The building is now made of stone and has withstood major earthquakes on seven occasions. Many people come to visit this beautiful church to learn about its incredible history and see its breath-taking magnificence.

4. See The Active Mayon Volcano

On the island of Luzon is an active volcano called Mayon Volcano which is also known as Mount Mayon. The volcano has picked up the nickname “Perfect Cone” due to its symmetrical cone shape. There are frequent eruptions at the volcano which lead to large evacuations of the neighboring towns as the ash and mud rains down on the people below. The most serious eruption recorded was in 1814, this led to over 1200 people losing their lives. The volcano and surrounding areas are part of a national park that is certainly worth visiting whilst you are in the Philippines.

5. Visit Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

If you are looking to see something a little bit special then a trip to this National Park will leave you feeling that you have just seen something incredible. The area is protected and has a cave system that is incredibly complex. There is a river that flows through the caves for 8.2km before flowing directly into the sea. The Puerto Princesa Underground River has been declared as one of the Seven Wonders of Nature. You can go for a ride on a paddle boat which is an excellent way to see the river and learn about the rock formations as well as the thousands of bats that live there.

6. Spend Time At Historical Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago in Manila is a citadel that was built by the Spanish as a defense fortress within the cities walls. The fort is incredibly popular with tourists and has a fascinating story. Jose Rizal was a Philippine national hero who was imprisoned within the fort up until his execution in 1896. Whilst you are exploring the fort you can take a look at the bronze footprints that have been embedded into the ground to mark out the prisoners final steps before execution.

7. See The Head Of All Churches

The Santo Nino Basilica is also known as the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child, the church is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the country and was built in 1965. The Spanish discovered an image of the Santo Nino de Cebu, a statue of the baby Jesus and so on the same spot they built this church. Inside the Basilica Complex is a museum that tells the history of Christianity in Cebu and is well worth a visit once you have finished looking at the Basilica

8. Take Some Time To Relax In Rizal Park

Named after Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. This 60 hectare park in Manila has many ponds, walking areas and ornamental gardens. The park of course has a monument to Jose Rizal, the monument has a 46 meter flagpole at its front and is guarded by sentries. There is a lagoon in the center of the park that has the heads of many Filipino hero’s on its bottom. There is also open air concerts that take place each Sunday evening, a fountain that bursts into color as darkness descends and each morning you can watch many locals practicing their t’ai chi.

9. Enjoy The Unusual Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are in the Bohol Province of the Philippines and they are a rare and fascinating site to see. There are at least 1,260 hills spread out over an area covering approximately 20 square miles. The small hills are covered in grass and as the dry season advances the grass turns from green to brown and starts to look like chocolate. The hills vary from 30 to 50 meters high and really are an iconic landmark of the country. No trip around the country is complete without a trip to the hills. Want to learn more about Bohol? Check out this post !

10. Take A Trip To Volcano Island

Taal Volcano is located on the island of Luzon and is an active volcano that has erupted at least 33 times previously. Due to the volcanoes location, previous eruptions have led to large losses of life. Now it is not possible to live on Volcano Island as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology have declared the entire island as a Permanent Danger Zone. A trip here is well worthwhile especially as the Crater lake on the island is the largest island on a lake on an island in the world.

11. Go Island Hopping From Your Base At Mactan Island

If you are looking to escape from any of the cities and just spend some quality time relaxing on a beautiful beach then Mactan Island could be what you are looking for. This beautiful island has many water sports to engage in, and there are many dive sites around that will provide you with some beautiful views of the local marine life. Mactan Island is also an excellent place to start your island hopping due to its connection with Cebu. The islands accommodation caters to all budgets from the cheap affordable guest houses right up to the indulgent Shangri-La Resort.

12. Forget About The Real World At Malapascua Island

There are 7,107 islands in the Philippines so getting around them all could prove to be almost impossible, however Malapascua Island is one that you should not miss out on. This island is a tiny beach paradise that offers you seclusion and a chance to get away from everything for a few days whilst you just relax. You can rent a small beach bungalow and stop for a few days whilst you mingle with the locals and their community. Life on the island is still fairly primitive compared to that of a western country, you are likely to lose electric for a while on a daily basis and the water will need to come from a bottle but when on a break these things all add to the authentic feel of your stay.

13. Go For A Dive At Tubbataha Reef

If you are into your diving then a dive at Tubbataha Reef is a must do! This glorious dive spot was discovered by divers in the 1970’s and has become famous for its incredible coral reefs. The location is quite remote and so you would need to go on a liveaboard boat to get to the location, but once you experience the underwater sights and large marine life the trip would have all been worth it. The dive season here is very short so make sure you go between the middle of March and the middle of June.

14. See The Shrine Of The Black Nazarene

The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene is a Roman Catholic Church in the city of Manila. The church became famous due to its shrine of the Black Nazarene. The Black Nazarene is a statue of Jesus Christ that is said to have miraculous powers. Many people both local and foreign flood into the basilica to see the Black Nazarene and kiss his feet or wipe him with their handkerchief. Each year in January the statue leaves the church for the Feast of the Black Nazarene and is paraded through the streets as part of a procession.

15. See The lakes At Coron Island

Just a short journey from Coron Town is Coron Island, an island that has become famous for its two lakes. To access the first lake you need to be prepared for a ten minute climb up steep terrain that is sure to leave you a little out of breath. You will have arrived at Lake Kayangan which has crystal clear water and is nestled in the walls of the mountain. You can go swimming in the lake and there is also a small wooden platform where you can leave your belongings. The second lake is called Lake Barracuda, here the water can reach temperatures of 38 degrees centigrade and can be seen by climbing over some jagged rocks that will take you straight into the water.

16. Explore The Historical Island Of Corregidor

Corregidor Island is located at the entrance of Manila Bay and is maintained in honor of the Filipino and American’s that lost their lives defending the country from the Japanese during World War II. The remains on the island tell a moving story of the battle and a guided tour will give you all the information you could need to learn about the great history of this special place. For those that want to experience the island for longer, a hotel is available with excellent accommodation and very knowledgeable staff.

17. Enjoy Some Activities At Burnham Park

Burnham Park is located in Baguio in the Philippines. It was named after Daniel Hudson Burnham (an American Architect who made the plans for the city.) The park has various activities that you can get involved with including a skating rink and football fields. There is also a small shop where you can rent bikes so you can explore the 32 hectares that the park offers a lot easier. If you wish to go out on the water the park has a man made lake that has paddle boats you can rent. There are many beautiful flowers in the park and a trip to the Orchidarium should not be missed whilst at the park.

18. A Day With The Family At Manila Ocean Park

If you are looking for something to do that will engage the whole family then a trip to Manila Ocean park will satisfy everybody. The park has more than 8,000 square meters of space to be explored. Some highlights of the park include a 25 metre acrylic tunnel that you can walk through and see the marine life from another angle. There is a penguin exhibit that has plenty of swimming penguins as well as a long slide that can be ridden using sleighs. The choices for food are vast with 25 different restaurants to choose from.

19. Take Great Photo’s At The Cebu Taoist Temple

The Cebu Taoist Temple was built by the large number of Chinese people that live in the temple’s surrounding area. The temple stands at 300 meters above sea level and is a large construction that can be accessed by three different paths. The temple is an active temple for Taoism and you will see many worshipers there when you visit. The temple has 81 steps leading up to it, each step represents one of the 81 chapters of Taoism scripture. The entrance to the temple was deliberately designed to look like the Great wall of China. When inside the temple you will be able to walk onto the balconies where you will enjoy a fantastic view of Cebu.

20. Take In The Spectacular View From Mines View Park

Mines View Park in Baguio is home to one of the best views in the Philippines. There is an observation deck here that offers panoramic views of the gold and copper mines below you, and the mountains ahead of you. To get to the viewing platform you will need to climb up some winding steps, these steps can unfortunately get quite slippery after it rains so it is always advisable to watch your step. When you reach the top you can rent some binoculars or have your photo take by one of the many camera men around. The best time to go is early in the day to make sure there is no fog that could disrupt your view.

21. See The Effects Of Mount Pinatubo

Mount Pinatubo is situated on the island of Luzon and when it erupted in 1991 it became one of the most destructive eruptions that the 20th century saw. When the volcano erupted it spewed out millions of tons of sulphur dioxide, the effects of which were felt across the world. 30,000 people lived on the slopes of the volcano before its eruption, luckily however scientists were able to predict when the volcano would erupt and so thousands of lives were saved. Trekking up the side of the volcano has now become very popular and is a great way to experience the awesome power of nature.

22. See The Most Famous Waterfall – Pagsanjan Falls

In the province of Laguna is perhaps the most famous waterfall in the country. It is a three tier waterfall that is reached by going on a river trip and most often a canoe. The falls are 91 meters high and once you have reached the top a skilled canoeist will take you back down the falls which go past 14 rapids. If a rapid ride is not your thing you can also hike up to the falls which will include two vertical ladders and 500 steps.

23. Climb The Tallest Mountain In The Philippines

Mount Apo stands at 2954 meters above sea level and is the highest volcano and mountain in the country. To climb the mountain you will need a permit as well as a guide but that is easy to obtain and the costs are very low. A complete trek to the top will take between one and three days depending on weather and your pace. Temperatures at night can drop to around zero degrees so some warm clothing is needed. Along your route you will experience many different bird varieties, there are 270 in total and a lot are endemic.

24. Island Hop At The Hundred Islands National Park

As mentioned earlier getting around the 7,107 islands in the Philippines is an almost impossible task so doing 100 at once is a great way to see a lot of places in a short space of time. The Hundred Islands National Park in Alamino is full of great places to explore. You can rent an outrigger and go from one island to the next, there are some with caves or hills, some can be camped on, Governor’s Island even has houses you can rent. Some of the islands have stand out names such as Kissing Island or Devil’s Island but the best thing to do is get out there and explore whatever you come across.

25. See The Starfish At Honda Bay

If going for a complete dive is a step to far then maybe you could consider going snorkeling at Honda Bay. Located on the eastern shore of Palawan the waters are often full of starfish (Starfish Island) and they make for a beautiful view as you gently snorkel through the calm waters. You can also book tours from here or rent a boat and explore on your own.

25 Best Things to Do in The Philippines:

• Chill Out For A Few Days In Boracay
• See The Beauty Of The Banaue Rice Terraces
• Marvel At The Wonder Of San Agustin Church
• See The Active Mayon Volcano
• Visit Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
• Spend Time At Historical Fort Santiago
• See The Head Of All Churches
• Take Some Time To Relax In Rizal Park
• Enjoy The Unusual Chocolate Hills
• Take A Trip To Volcano Island
• Go Island Hopping From Your Base At Mactan Island
• Forget About The Real World At Malapascua Island
• Go For A Dive At Tubbataha Reef
• See The Shrine Of The Black Nazarene
• See The lakes At Coron Island
• Explore The Historical Island Of Corregidor
• Enjoy Some Activities At Burnham Park
• A Day With The Family At Manila Ocean Park
• Take Great Photo's At The Cebu Taoist Temple
• Take In The Spectacular View From Mines View Park
• See The Effects Of Mount Pinatubo
• See The Most Famous Waterfall - Pagsanjan Falls
• Climb The Tallest Mountain In The Philippines
• Island Hop At The Hundred Islands National Park
• See The Starfish At Honda Bay

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 55 Places to Visit in Philippines

• Philippines

Philippines Tourist Places

Quick navigation.

Must Visit Places in Philippines

San agustin church.

National Museum of the Philippines

Chocolate Hills

Banaue Rice Terraces

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

Siargao is known to be one of the famous places in the Philippines for surfing. Even though the island is very small, almost like a teardrop, it’s one of the most visited places. The entire island is bordered with white sandy beaches while the turquoise blue water washes off the shoreline. Inland waterfalls and lagoons are also present, which are major relaxing and rejuvenating spots. Besides, if you want to explore the inner lands of the island, you can go on cave trekking which is a popular activity in Siargao. Snorkelling and deep-sea diving are also quite famous for non-surfer tourists, especially since you will find coral reefs surrounding the island shoreline.  Location: Towards the Northeast coast of Mindanao, Philippines

Samal Island

Coron Island

Being the third largest island, Coron is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines. Towards the centre of the island, you will find limestone peaks of several heights, with caves underneath which one can explore further to have a day full of adventures. If you like scuba diving or snorkelling, Coron Island is the ideal place for the same, all thanks to some of the world's most exquisite coral reefs. Several multicoloured lagoons and inland lakes are there, which you can see during your tour. You will at least find one shipwreck near Coron Island whose age is more than a hundred years.  Location: 100 kilometres towards the north direction of Palawan, Philippines.

Manilla Bay

Batan Island

Ayala Museum

Danao Adventure Park

Nalusuan Island

Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary

White Beach

Mt. Luho View Deck

Crystal Cove Island

Places to Visit in Manila

Fort Santiago

Manila Ocean Park

Star City Amusement Park

San Sebastian Church

Best of Thailand

Manila Cathedral

Places to Visit in Bohol

Hinagdanan cave.

Tarsier Conservation Area

Best of Indonesia

Blood Compact Monument

Loboc Adventure Park

Baclayon Church

Mag-Aso and Busay Falls

Places to Visit in Cebu

Yap-sandiego ancestral house.

Best of Bangkok

Fort San Pedro

Magellan's Cross

Cebu Heritage Monument

Kawasan Falls

Candongao Peak

Best of Maldives

Places to Visit in Boracay

Puka shell beach.

Diniwid Beach

Willy's Rock

Cagban Beach

Places to Visit in Quezon

National park of quezon memorial circle.

Best of Malaysia

Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center

3d Art Museum of Art in Island

La Mesa Dam and Ecopark

Places to Visit in Coron

Lake kayangan.

Best of Bali

Atwayan Beach

Underwater Mountains in Barracuda Lake

Banana Islands

Coral Garden

Places to Visit in El Nido

Secret lagoon.

Best of Manila

Snake Island

Seven Commando Beach

Coron Beach

People Also Ask About Philippines

Which are the best places to visit in the philippines, which are the best places to visit in manila, which are the best places to visit in cebu, what is the best time to visit the philippines, what is famous in the philippines, how many days are enough to see the philippines.

Philippines Travel Guides

Philippines Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Philippines

More things to do in philippines, more on philippines tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

Top 20 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines 2023

Travel is slowly coming back and one of the best places to visit in the world is the Philippines. Since the country is still recovering, there are still a few tourists coming in and the country is ready for them. You’ll still be able to visit one of the best islands in the world without the influx of tourists from different countries. Although COVID restrictions are still in place, the country has finally opened its doors to travel and tourism.

Table of Contents

Related Read: How to Travel from El Nido to Coron

With extra precautions, we can finally say that 2023 is the year to resume our postponed travel plans. In fact, if you are looking for places to visit in the Philippines, here are the best places to visit in 2023.

Related Read : How to Plan your Trip to the Philippines: The Best Philippines Travel Guide

To make it easier for you to choose the places to visit, we have also divided these places to the 3 major groups of islands in the country so you can find a specific place to visit in the Philippines easily.

Have you got any questions about traveling to the Philippines? Join our  Philippines Travel Planning FB Page  to get your answers.

Don’t know how to start planning your Philippines trip? You can  start here .

Located in the northernmost province in the Philippines, Batanes is composed of 10 small islands. However, only 3 of its biggest islands, Batan, Itbayat, and Sabtang, are inhabited. Its lush green hills will surely give us “Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit” vibes. Others would also say it reminds them of New Zealand. Who would have thought that the smallest province in the country possesses a lot of beautiful tourist attractions like the Basco Lighthouse, Morong Beach, Vayang Rolling Hills, Valugan Border Beach, and so much more? And since it is the topmost province in the Philippines (facing Taiwan), Batanes has a cool and windy climate. In fact, it is hailed as the “Home of the Wind” because of this. 

Related Read: Why Visit the Philippines? 10 Reasons Why You Must!

Getting to:

Batanes is a very remote place and before it became a Philippines must-see destination, it was once inaccessible from Manila. However, with its growing popularity, there are now flights to Basco , it’s capital town. 

Top Attraction:

Basco Lighthouse

Top Place to Stay:

Nathaniel’s Lodge

Coron, Palawan

Coron remains to be one of the top Philippines must-see places for consecutive years already. Aside from its clear water, It is known for its beautiful rock formations and historical WWII Shipwreck diving spots. There are several diving spots in Coron and each varies in depth. While some require diving skills to explore, there are also some sites that can be seen through your snorkel equipment. Prepare a lot of swimwear since most of the activities here are water activities. However, if you want to take a break from the water, you can also explore the wildlife in Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary or watch the sunset in Mt. Tapyas. 

The overall vibe of the island attracts a lot of tourists who want to enjoy a laid back vacation. For sure, you will never regret visiting Coron for an authentic island experience.

The most popular way of getting to Coron is by flying to Busuanga Airport where top airlines in the Philippines are serving domestic flights to and from Manila, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa. Tourists can also take a ferry to the seaport of Coron most especially those who are coming from El Nido.

Kayangan Lake (The Blue Lagoon)

The Funny Lion – Check rates here

El Nido, Palawan

El Nido, aside from Coron, is also one of the best places to visit in Palawan. It has also been catching attention from the tourism industry for consecutive years now because of its picture-perfect beauty. You surely don’t want to miss this “Heaven on Earth” and its 45 islands and islets. Because of that, the top activity while in El Nido is island hopping. There are four island hopping packages you can choose from but if you’re staying longer, why not choose all? Each of these packages features different activities. In summary, Tour A takes you to the popular attractions in El Nido, Tour B takes you to different caves and sandbars, Tour C takes you to the beautiful beaches in El Nido, and if you can’t get enough of these beaches, Tour D takes you to more beaches. Aside from island hopping, there are also other activities in El Nido like diving, kayaking, and snorkeling.

You can take a flight to Puerto Princesa and take a 4-hour ride bus or van to El Nido. On the other hand, if you’re coming from Coron, you can take a ferry to get to El Nido .

Nacpan Beach

El Nido Resorts, Miniloc Island – check here

Tagaytay is the best escape from city life in Manila. With a travel time of only 1 hour to 1.5 hours, you can already enjoy the refreshingly cool climate along with the picturesque view of Taal or the exciting rides in the Sky Ranch. You can also enjoy hilltop picnics in Tagaytay Picnic Grove and maybe spend some time in this funky museum called the Puzzle Mansion.

If taking a bus, you can ride the bus bound to Nasugbu or Calatagan in Pasay Terminal or bus to Tagaytay , Mendez or Nasugbu in Coastal Mall, Paranaque. You can also take the van bound for Lemery or Calatagan from Starmall EDSA, Alabang, or Metropoint Mall. 

Taal Volcano

The Lake Hotel Tagaytay – check here

The Philippines also has its own popular windmills and it is located in Pagudpud. The Bangui Windmills which plays an important role in supplying 40% of Ilocos Norte’s electricity, also stands as one of the most popular landmarks in the city. In total there are 20 units of wind turbines and pictured together with the sunset in the West Philippine Sea makes a really great photo. Aside from these windmills, Saud Beach is also popular in Ilocos Norte. From afar, you can also see the windmills peeking.

Pagudpud is accessible by land and air. There are flights available from Manila, Cebu, and Davao to Laoag City which is just a bus ride away from Pagudpud. Check here

If traveling by land, there are direct buses from Manila and Tuguegarao to Pagudpud and a series of bus transfers from Clark. Check here

Bangui Windmills

Pannzian Beach – check here

The preserved Spanish colonial and Asian architecture in Vigan makes it to the list of best places to visit in the Philippines. Aside from being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vigan is also one of the New7Wonders Cities. If you are planning to visit, be sure to stop by these popular attractions in the city: Calle Crisologo, Syquia Mansion, Ilocos Sur Dancing Fountain, and Balurate Zoo. All these are best experienced during the dry season so be sure to plan your trip during the dry and summer season which is from November to May.

There are two ways to get to Vigan from Manila. One is via a coach bus which offers day trips and overnight trips (takes at most 11 hours). The second one is by flying to Laoag City then taking a coach bus to Vigan (takes 4 to 5 hours).

Calle Crisologo

Regency Hotel de Vigan – check here

Sagada and Banaue

Sagada is such a beautiful place to unwind, relax or even ponder about the beauty of nature. Indeed, whose heart would not heal after watching the breathtaking sea of clouds in Kiltepan Peak? The remote and simple lifestyle in Sagada paired with its beautiful view will surely warm your heart and make you appreciate life even more. Spelunking in Sumaguing Cave is also a must-try in Sagada. If you can’t get enough of the 2-hour experience in Sumaguing, you can continue your journey to Lumiang Burial Cave which will take another 2-3 hours of caving. There’s definitely a lot of nature activities awaiting you in Sagada. At the end of the day, don’t forget to stop by the popular Lemon Pie House and Gaia Cafe for some authentic Mountain Province treats.

From Manila, you take a direct bus to Banaue and Sagada from Cubao which will take approximately 12 hours. This bus takes the Banaue route but if you want to pass by Baguio, you can also take a Victory Liner or a Joy Bus from Manila. Then from Baguio City, you can take another bus to Sagada which takes 6 hours.

Sumaguing Cave

Coffee Heritage House and Hostel – check here

Baguio City

After your Sagada trip, you can also spend a few more days in Baguio City where you can explore the different city attractions and chill– like literally chill because of Baguio’s low temperature. Attractions like Mines View Park, Burnham Park, Philippine Military Academy, and the Baguio Botanical Garden are the typical Baguio itinerary but if you are into outdoor activities like hiking, you can also schedule a hike to Mt. Pulag. 

Baguio is only 4-6 hours away from Manila. The most popular buses to Baguio are Victory Liner and Joy Bus which have terminals in Pasay, Cubao, Caloocan, Sampaloc, and Avenida. – check here or here

Read: How to Get from PITX to Baguio

The Manor at Camp John Hay

Boracay, Aklan

Of course, if you plan a trip to the Philippines, you will always list down Boracay in your bucket list. Tourists from all over the world just can’t help coming back for more white sand and world-class resort experience in Boracay. Now that the island is back to its natural state, a lot of people are even more excited to spend a vacation here. 

The easiest way to get to Boracay is by flying to Caticlan Airport . Then from Caticlan Airport, you can ride a ferry in Caticlan Jetty Port to Boracay.

White Beach

Shangri-La Boracay – check here

Malapascua, Cebu

One of the diving centers in the Northern part of Cebu, Malapascua Island offers a handful of water activities both underwater and above water. Malapascua is just one of the attractions in the Philippines where it seems like there are more foreign tourists than locals. Most of these are international divers who are eyeing to spot a Thresher Shark and other marine life in Monad Shoal.

Aside from scuba diving, snorkeling and island hopping is also popular on the island. There are even packages which offer island hopping to its neighbor island, the Kalanggaman Island in Palompon Leyte. Don’t forget to save some energy for the happy hour in some bars and restaurants which usually starts from late afternoon until late at night.

From Cebu City, take a Ceres bus bound for Maya Port. Travel time usually takes 4 hours. Once in the port, take a boat to Malapascua Island. You can go to Ceres Bus terminal or Cebu Northern bus terminal to take the bus.

Bounty Beach

Tepanee Beach Resort

Oslob and Moalboal Cebu

Cebu City is one of the best places to see in the Philippines in 2021 because every 3rd Sunday of January, the city celebrates the Sinulog festival. People from all over the world come to take part in the grand celebration through street dancing while several establishments also hold fun activities and events during this season. On the other hand, a lot of tourists also start their Cebu itinerary in Cebu City before heading to the Northernmost or the Southernmost part of the province. 

Related Read: Cebu Travel Guide: What to See, Do, Costs and How to Get Around

You can find a lot of flights to Mactan Cebu International Airport served by the top airline companies in the Philippines such as Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines. There are also direct international flights by Emirates, All Nippon Airways, Korean Air, EVA Air, and more. From the airport, you can ride the airport bus to SM City Cebu or take a taxi to your hotel in Cebu City.

Kawasan Falls

Bayfront Hotel Cebu – Check here

Camotes, Cebu

If you are looking for a budget friendly island getaway in Cebu, Camotes Island is the perfect choice. It offers a combination of white-sand beaches, and mysterious caves without hurting your budget. In the evening, if you happen to stay somewhere along Santiago Bay, be sure to stop by the food stations by the beach and you will be treated with some reggae music.

Aside from the beautiful beach in Santiago, be sure to try cliff jumping in Buho Rock too. You can also get a nice sunset from here. Lastly, don’t forget to bring waterproof bags when exploring the caves in Camotes. 

There are 3 options to get to Camotes Island. First is by taking an Oceanjet fastcraft from Cebu Port, Pier 1 , second is by taking the Jomalia Roro from Danao City Port , and third is by taking the Jomalia Fastcraft in Mactan Wharf.

Santiago Bay Beach

Santiago Bay Garden and Resort – check here

In 2021, plan a trip to the Philippines and make sure that you won’t be missing Bohol in your vacation. It is popular for its immaculate beaches, world-class resorts, and country-side tour where you can visit the world renowned Chocolate Hills. A typical itinerary in Bohol would be to take the countryside tour on the first day which comprises the Blood Compact Shrine, Loboc River Cruise, Chocolate Hills, Tigbao Hanging Bridge, Bilar Man-made forest, and Bohol Tarsier. If you’re spending a few days more, you can visit Alona Beach and Doljo Beach in Panglao or stay in Anda Beach and maybe explore the Cabagnow Cave.

The best thing about visiting Bohol is that you can find a lot of tour packages or you can also rent a car and explore the island at your own pace.

You can fly directly to Bohol from Manila or other travel hubs in the Philippines. You can also take a ferry if you’re coming from Cebu, Siquijor, or Dumaguete. Getting from Cebu to Bohol is the best and easiest way to get to the island. Check here

Chocolate Hills

Eskaya Beach Resort – check here

Siquijor, also called the “Mystic Island”, is the third smallest province in the Philippines and because of its size, you can explore everything you have to see in the island in just a day. This will be a great side trip if you plan a trip to the Philippines. If you are visiting with a  small group, you can take the Tricycle tour to get around the island. For a bigger group, the multicab tour or the van tour is perfect for approximately 15 people. Solo travelers will also love it here as you can easily find motorcycle rentals. There are two types of tours in Siquijor– the first one is land tour and the other one is mountain tour. The land tour takes you to various attractions in Siquijor like the historical churches and beautiful beaches in the island. The Enchanted Balete tree is also a must-see. The mountain tour on the other hand lets you explore Mt. Bandilaan and Cantabon Cave. 

Since the coronavirus outbreak, Siquijor is one of the few provinces in the Philippines that does not have a high number of positive cases. 

The closest jump-off point to Siquijor is Dumaguete City and Sibulan which are just a boat ride away. So if you want to go to Siquijor, you can fly to Sibulan and board a ferry to Siquijor or you can take a ferry from Dumaguete City to Siquijor.  – You can also search here.

Top Attraction

Cambugahay Falls

Top Place to Stay

Infinity Heights Resort

Dumaguete City

Dumaguete City is known for it’s laid-back vibe. You can often find locals and tourists peacefully dining or enjoying a drink along Rizal Boulevard– where you can find a lot of food choices, by the way. To be honest, there’s not much to see in Dumaguete, the city itself, aside from Rizal Boulevard, Silliman University, and Campanario de Dumaguete. But if you are looking for good food, you can try the Sans Rival Bistro and of course,  Bacolod’s pride, the chicken inasal. Dumaguete City is a good starting point if you’re going to Manjuyod Sandbar and the Twin Lakes of Danao and Balinsasayao.

Despite being limited in tourist attractions, Dumaguete City still captures the heart of many tourists most especially millennials who want to take a break from the city life but don’t want to fully disconnect from what they’re used to– it’s more like a middle ground between the urban and rural living.

You can fly to Sibulan and take a bus to Dumaguete. There are also ferries from Tagbilaran, Santander, Dipolog, Siquijor, and Dapitan going to Dumaguete.  – Check the ferries here.

Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao

Hotel Essencia

Iloilo city is filled with rich and well-preserved heritage that you can see from the city’s festivals, cuisine, and top tourist attractions. This makes Iloilo one of the Philippines must-see destinations in Visayas. Although Iloilo can be enjoyed all throughout the year, it is best to come on dry season where you can spend a lot of time in Isla de Gigantes.

You might also want to take advantage of the festivity in January, the Dinagyang Festival, where you get to experience Iloilo in a more lively mood. If you want to dive deeper into tIloilo’s heritage, you can also visit churches and cathedrals like Miagao Church, Molo Church, Jaro Cathedral, and Guimbal Church. If you are looking for local foods, you can try La Paz Batchoy, a clear noodle soup with pork cracklings, chicken, beef, and round noodles. It is also Iloilo’s signature dish. You can also enjoy a platter of affordable seafoods in Isla de Gigantes. 

Iloilo has an international airport which hosts flights from various cities in the Philippines and abroad. Aside from that, Iloilo also has four seaports where ferries from Manila and other places in the country. – Check flights here.

Isla de Gigantes

Seda Atria – Check here

Bantayan Island

One of the most tempting islands to visit in the Visayas region is the Bantayan Island. Upon docking in Santa Fe, you will already want to take a dip in the water because of the crystal clear and turquoise sea that will welcome you upon disembarking the boat. Indeed, there’s no other way to welcome a tourist to this lovely paradise than giving you a glimpse of what the island has– and that is the beautiful beaches and all sorts of water activities.

All year round, Bantayan Island is swarmed by domestic and international tourists that is why you can find various restaurants and bars with different specialties anywhere you go. Island hopping is the main activity in the island but if you want to experience the island even more, you can also drive from Santa Fe to Madridejos and vice versa. The drive won’t even take half a day as the island is just small. 

The most popular route is by taking a bus from Cebu City to Hagnaya Port. Tourists from Palompon can also take a ferry to Bogo City and then take a bus to  Hagnaya Port. From Hagnaya Port, you can catch a public ferry to Santa Fe as early as 7AM. 

Virgin Island

Kota Beach Resort

Another island to visit in 2023 is Siargao Island.

Proudly located in Mindanao, Siargao has been very popular to surfers around the world because of its large waves that are ideal for this watersport. Beginners and even those with no experience also want to try this challenging activity as the highlight of their Siargao trip. But aside from that, there are a lot of activities you can do in Siargao that even some tourists prefer to stay for a month or two to get the most of the island life. The locals on the island are also very fun to be with. On some nights, there are parties held in the most popular hostels and resorts in Siargao so be sure to check with the locals.

Related Read: Siargao Travel Guide: Things to See, Do, Accommodation and Itinerary

You can also just drive at night to check where the crowd is. You will most likely know it because there are usually tricycles and motorcycles for hire waiting outside the venue. You can also find a variety of foods in Siargao. While you get the Instagrammable and expensive ones in resorts, there are also budget-friendly food choices along the road or sometimes outside these resorts. There is also a public market if you want to cook your own fresh seafood.

You can fly through Cebu Pacific to Sayak Airport.  And because this is just a small airport, only small planes can fly in and out of Siargao. Aside from flying, you can also take an overnight passenger boat from Cebu to Surigao City and take another ferry from Surigao to Siargao.

Cloud 9 Beach

Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa

This pearl in South Cotabato was hailed as a cultural landscape by UNESCO. Aside from that, Lake Sebu is also celebrated as the Land of the Dream Weavers because of its popular T’nalak tapestry which plays an important role in the social, cultural, and personal perspective of the T’bolis. There are a lot of places to visit in Lake Sebu and you can start your trip by exploring these three important lakes: Lake Sebu, Lake Lahit, and Lake Seloton. Lake

Sebu is also known for the Seven Waterfalls where you can also ride a zipline that passes by these waterfalls. If you have fear of heights, you can hike to Hikong Bente instead. You surely don’t want to miss a trip to T’Boli museum too where you can see a collection of gongs, T’nalak, antiques, and other artifacts of T’boli culture. In total, you will need at least 2 days to get the most of your Lake Sebu trip.

If you are coming from Manila, Cebu or Iloilo, you can take a flight to General Santos . Then ride a taxi or a multicab to Bulaong Terminal where you can catch a van to Lake Sebu. If you are coming from Davao, you can take a bus from Davao Ecoland Terminal to Marbel in South Cotabato. Then from Marbel, you can take a van to Lake Sebu.

Seven Waterfalls

Punta Isla Lake Resort

Camiguin Island

Camiguin is the smallest island in Mindanao and the second smallest province in the country. However, this small island earned its fierce title as the Island Born of Fire because of the seven volcanoes that have been changing Camiguin’s landscape from time to time. Camiguin is also a combination of heritage sites and beaches. You can find ancestral homes, old churches, and other historical sites all over the island. Hidden in various corners of the island, you can also find waterfalls, natural springs, beaches and diving spots. The most popular of them is the Sunken Cemetery. 

Cebu Pacific has small planes flying directly to Camiguin. If you are looking for more flights, you can also fly to Cagayan de Oro or Butuan. From Cagayan airport, you can take the direct shuttle van to Camiguin or you can take the bus/van in Agora Terminal then take a ferry to Camiguin.  – Check flights here.

Top Attractions

Sunken Cemetery

Paras Beach Resort – Check here

We know it’s difficult to travel at this time, but planning you trip to the Philippines is always a good idea. You can dream of the places that you want to visit and know exactly where you will go.

Did we miss anything else? Let us know in the comments!

Angie is a travel consultant and blogger who has started by writing her travel memoirs on her blog and then got published  on international travel sites. She’s now focused on creating in-depth travel itinerary and articles about planning trips to the Philippines.

You Might Also Like

31 Best Things to Do in Bohol, Philippines

How to Plan Your Trip to the Philippines: The Best Philippines Travel Guide

6 Awesome Things to Do in Panglao Island, Bohol

• Start Planning
• TRAVEL GUIDES
• Destinations

• Philippines
• 11 Places In The Philippines...

The 34 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in the Philippines

Filipinos are renowned for the immense pride they take in their homeland. Anything made in the Philippines or achieved by a Filipino, especially when recognized abroad, sets off a flood of national joy. In a country as startlingly beautiful as the Philippines, there is indeed plenty to be proud of. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most beautiful places to visit in this nation of more than 7,000 islands.

Natural Feature

With its gorgeous rock formations, pristine beaches and clear aquamarine waters, El Nido is one of the best attractions that makes Filipinos beam with pride. Located on the northern tip of mainland Palawan , the municipality of El Nido has been increasingly drawing tourists year after year, with more travellers, both local and foreign, discovering its undeniable beauty. The area is responsible in large part for why Palawan is recognized –and has been for some time – as the best island in the world .

Also within the gorgeous province of Palawan is the municipality of Coron . With crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling, powdery white sandy beaches and innumerable picture-perfect landscapes, Coron is a beach bum’s dream. As in El Nido, travellers can charter a small boat or join organized tour groups for day trips around the many islands and lagoons here. One stop that should not be missed is the breathtaking Kayangan Lake, dubbed the cleanest in the country and surrounded by stunning karst walls; truly a sight to behold, both above and below the water.

3. Tubbataha Reefs

Natural Feature, Park

4. Banaue Rice Terraces

5. Chocolate Hills

The pride of Bohol Province is a historical attraction. The rolling landscapes of the Chocolate Hills were named after their colour transition taking place between the wet and dry seasons when they grow a deeper and deeper shade of brown. Over 1,000 hills are estimated to be scattered across the 50sqkm (5,000ha) area.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,656 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

6. Intramuros

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Intramuros, nestled within today’s restless Metro Manila, is a walled area that played an important role in the country’s history. The heart of old Manila , the area packs a lot into its 0.5sqkm (50ha) size and with cobblestone streets, preserved ruins and colonial architecture, Intramuros is a must-see for visitors to the capital. Visitors can go on walking tours to learn about Intramuros and the country’s history and take kalesa (horse-drawn calash) rides around the historic zone.

Gaining more and more popularity in recent years is the country’s surf capital of Siargao . Strategically located on the east coast, Siargao receives strong winds and currents that flow in steadily from the Pacific Ocean. To the delight of surfers, this gives the island solid swells they can enjoy, including the famous Cloud 9 .

8. Mount Mayon

One natural wonder that locals are truly proud of, Mount Mayon sits in the Filipino province of Albay. Mayon is an active volcano (the most active in the country) that is famous for its seemingly perfect symmetry. Standing at nearly 2,500m (8,200ft), its flawless conical shape captivates anyone who sets eyes on it. And while viewing it from afar is a sensational sight, it is best experienced up close through a multi-day hike .

9. Hinatuan Enchanted River

This deep spring river in the province of Surigao del Sur takes its name from the mystical qualities locals believe surround the body of water. With its enchanting shades of deep blues and greens, the river is believed by locals to be guarded by fairies and other spirits known as engkanto . Contributing to its mystical nature is the unexplained source of its clear saltwater.

10. Batanes

Batanes offers an escape like nowhere else in the country. Perched at the northernmost tip of the Philippines, Batanes is surrounded by picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, big sky and azure seas. A tranquil, slowed-down vibe permeates life here, with locals known for their pleasant and amiable nature. They are also proud of their province’s virtually non-existent crime rate.

The Most Beautiful Islands in the Philippines

11. boracay.

Perhaps the second most popular Philippine island next to Palawan is the island of Boracay . Known for its powdery white sand, spectacular sunsets and vibrant nightlife, Boracay has long been a tourist hotspot Filipinos like to brag about, but the island was shut in 2018 due to a large-scale sewage problem, which dramatically affected tourism. With a long list of activities and watersports available, visitors will never run out of things to do on the island.

12. Kalanggaman Island

While the luxurious island of Pamalican may sound divine, a trip here does end with quite the hefty bill. For those seeking out a tropical escape with a more feasible price tag, the country has a remarkable lineup of undeveloped virgin islands, too. One of these is Kalanggaman in Leyte. While the island itself isn’t all that large, two dazzling sandbars extend into the sea on either side. There are no hotels on the island, nor is there electricity – two enticing features to campers. There are basic facilities however, such as toilets and cottages for rent, so choosing to spend the night wouldn’t be too rough. Kalanggaman might not be the easiest to get to but its picturesque sandbar alone makes it a must for anyone travelling around the Visayas.

13. Malapascua Island

Like Apo, the island of Malapascua, north of mainland Cebu , is also famous for its excellent dive sites. As Apo boasts regular turtle sightings, Malapascua boasts that of majestic manta rays and thresher sharks. And while this island’s allure extends far beyond its coast, its beaches don’t make coming back to shore seem too bad either. Peaceful beaches like Guimbitayan and Langob are inviting havens after long days out at sea.

14. Malcapuya Island

With El Nido and Coron crowning the island province, northern Palawan is any beach lover’s utopia . Another of its islands worth a trip is Malcapuya, sitting between the municipalities of Coron and Culion. As you approach, it won’t seem like much but, as you’ll quickly find out, it’s only because you’ll be docking at its backside. This gives its exquisite powdery white sand beach unobstructed views and keeps its shores swimmer-friendly and free of boats. Not only does this island have an immaculate, virgin beach, but its clear waters are also great for snorkelling. Interesting rock formations adorn one end, while the other has a viewing point from which to revel in all its natural beauty.

15. Camiguin Island

The island province of Camiguin is another one of the country’s more underrated tourist destinations. While nearby White Island and Mantigue Island are great spots, mainland Camiguin is not to be overlooked. Majestic waterfalls, hot and cold springs, volcanoes and the famous sunken cemetery – this island presents a long list of sights and activities to fill out an exciting itinerary. And while travellers would come in more moderate numbers in the past, the province is currently working on expanding and promoting their tourism industry, so an influx of visitors is expected in the near future.

16. Siquijor Island

Just east of Camiguin is the mystical island of Siquijor. Despite being wrapped in folklore and tales of witchcraft, this island is much more than its age-old legends. White sand beaches and marine sanctuaries with splendid diving spots abound but the star of the island is Cambugahay Falls, a series of gently cascading waterfalls that form a number of enchanting turquoise pools. Surrounded by lush green rainforest and dotted with wooden rafts, it looks like it could have been designed for a luxury waterpark – we’re talking honeymoon-photos gorgeous. Of course, Cambugahay Falls is popular, so for a quieter and more rugged waterfall to wallow in, try Lugnason Falls which is usually much less crowded.

17. Palaui Island

The famous TV franchise Survivor set four seasons of the show in the Philippines. The first two were filmed in Caramoan, with the other two in remote Palaui. Located in the north of the country, off the coast of Luzon , Palaui is an adventurer’s playground. Because of distance, it isn’t frequented by most travellers, which also keeps the island’s rustic character intact. In and around lush terrain are beaches, mangrove forests, hiking trails and waterfalls to explore. The island also houses a historic lighthouse from the Spanish occupation which is now considered a national cultural treasure. Its lone residential village of Punta Verde serves as a camping ground for visitors who wish to rough it out and stay a while.

Strictly speaking, Calaguas is a group of islands, east of Manila in the province of Camarines Norte. While a handful of islands make up the area, Tinaga is the best known and most frequented for its pristine 3km (2mi) stretch called Mahabang Buhangin. Not nearly as distinguished as Boracay or Palawan , the islands of Calaguas remain unadulterated. Fancy accommodations are also not an option in Mahabang Buhangin, so it has become a popular camping ground for the adventurous islander. Surrounding rolling terrain and hiking trails also present a more active alternative to lying on the beach.

Matukad Island

Once hidden jewels, the islands around the Caramoan peninsula in Camarines Sur were brought into the limelight after being featured on several seasons of the long-running reality competition, Survivor. The show’s typical setting is remote and isolated, a look very much had by the Caramoan islands. One of these islands is Matukad, which boasts a gorgeous fine-sand beach, lush forest backdrop and hidden lagoon. The lagoon is obscured by a tall limestone cliff, that, when climbed, presents a superb view of the natural pool below. The waters are calm and clear, perfect for swimming, but pack some courage for the climb as the rock wall is steep and jagged, which many contend is also worth the view.

Lahos Island

Another impressive Caramoan island is Lahos. A striking image, the island is characterized by two major rock formations opposite each other, allowing a small beach to stretch between them, creating shorelines on either end of the island. This untainted piece of paradise makes for a great place to simply lay back and bask in its raw beauty. It also goes without saying that Lahos is a perfect location for stunning new photos to add to your social media feeds.

White Island

This bare island just off the coast of Camiguin’s capital is a favourite for more than just its accessibility. More a sandbar than an island, it is free of any trees or structures, save for a meagre shack that sells snacks and rents out umbrellas. What surrounds it, however, are exquisite views of the horizon and Mt Hibok-Hibok on the province’s main island. Because there is not much shade, it’s best to come early in the morning or late into the afternoon to avoid the day’s scorching hours. Try to chance upon either sunrise or sunset for an even more remarkable scene.

Apo is a unique one on the list because perhaps even more famous than the island itself are its surrounding waters. A protected marine reserve, the waters around Apo Island hold magnificent coral gardens and bustling marine life. Turtle sightings are especially commonplace even close to shore, making it an exciting site for both snorkelling and diving. There are also accommodation options on the island for those who want more time exploring its marine reserve than a day trip allows.

Mantigue Island

Mantigue Island, also known as Magsaysay Island, sits just off the eastern coast of Camiguin. It’s usually much less crowded than the accessible White Island and offers more activity than the picturesque bare sandbar. More than just a beautiful beach, the island is rich in vegetation and even has a little forest trail for visitors to explore. It is also known for its marine sanctuary, a fantastic spot to do some diving or snorkelling.

Sabtang Island

Journey an hour southwest of Batan and you reach the island of Sabtang. Here, Batanes showcases even more masterpieces of nature, like the Chamantad-Tinyan Viewpoint and Nakabuang stone arch on Morong Beach. But an impressive man-made treasure that also renders this island worth a visit is the traditional Ivatan house, built to withstand the tempestuous weather the province sees, due to its geographic location. Made of limestone and coral walls and thatched cogon grass roofs, these sturdy houses line the local villages of Savidug and Chavayan, which are wonders to stroll through.

Cresta de Gallo Island

Near the centre of the Philippine archipelago is a small untouched paradise that still flies below the tourist radar, leaving it in its pure, spotless state. It also helps that it isn’t the easiest to get to and that there is virtually nothing on the island except for whatever nature bestowed. Anyone who decides to make the trip must have all necessities in tow, from water and food to camping gear. But for the trouble, they’ll also very likely have this precious island all to themselves.

Islas de Gigantes

And finally, rounding off this list are a group of lesser known islands in the province of Iloilo. Collectively known as Islas de Gigantes, some 10 islands sit unspoilt and uncrowded at the country’s centre. A basic tour around the islands makes stops at Cabugao Gamay, a picture-perfect islet with a vegetated rock hill at one end and a prime viewing point over Bantigue Island, Bakwitan Cave and Antonia Beach at the other. Seafood , especially scallops, are also abundant, so seafood lovers can feast to their heart’s content. This is one for your list of places to hurry to before it’s reached by commercial development.

The Most Beautiful Towns in The Philippines

The following recommendations are from Jessica Dawdy .

A Unesco World Heritage Site , Vigan is one of the oldest towns in the Philippines. Calle Crisologo, the town’s historic center, is closed to vehicular traffic. This beautifully-preserved cobbled street is lined with colonial-era merchant houses and Baroque churches. Horse-drawn carriages, called kalesa, add to the beguiling atmosphere. Most of these elegant buildings are private homes, but a few have been converted into B&Bs and museums, allowing visitors the opportunity to see their equally-stunning interiors. Established in the 16th-century, the town’s unique architecture brings together elements of local, Chinese, and European architecture. It’s considered to be Asia’s finest example of a planned Spanish colonial town.

19. Baclayon

Baclayon was the first municipality to be founded on the island of Bohol, established by the Spanish in the late 16th century. This charming town’s main attraction is Baclayaon Church, which is a National Cultural Treasure as well as a National Historical Landmark. Although this historic church was severely damaged during an earthquake in 2013, its adjacent museum remains open to explore. Aside from the church, the town is home to dozens of lovely colonial Spanish homes, dating back as far as 1853. Baclayon is an ideal base for whale-and dolphin-watching excursions to nearby Pamilacan Island.

Known as the ‘Philippine Shangri-La’, Sagada is a stunning town set 5,300 feet above sea level in north-central Philippines. The town’s landscape of caves, hiking trails, sculpted rice terraces, and lush karst mountains looks particularly stunning shrouded in the mists often present at its high altitude. According to traditional local culture, the spirits of the dead like to be close to the sky, and as a result, ancient coffins can be seen interspersed along the limestone cliffs. Established by Episcopal missionaries in the early 20th century, the town’s cooler climate is ideal for growing a variety of fruits that are challenging to grow elsewhere in the country, including lemons.

Although Silay doesn’t initially look as lovely as the nearby provincial capital of Bacolod, it’s a city that quickly draws in those who linger long enough to discover its rich history. Once known as ‘the Paris of Negros’, Silay was at the heart of the island’s thriving sugar industry in the 19th century. During the industry’s Golden Age, the town was dotted with grand sugar mansions. A number of these historic mansions survive today, and some have been converted into interesting museums. The town is particularly wonderful to visit during the Charter-Day anniversary, which takes place each June. This colorful annual event features an exciting street dance competition.

Daraga is a quaint market town located in southeast Luzon. This rural town sits in the shadow of Mount Mayon, with Daraga Church perched dramatically on a hill overlooking the volcano. Constructed in 1773, the church was built using volcanic rock and features some intricately sculpted reliefs on its columns. Just northwest of town is Cagsawa Church, one of the region’s most iconic sites. In the early 19th century hundreds of people sought refuge in the church during a devastating eruption of Mount Mayon, but were killed when lava engulfed the building. The remains of the church look quite haunting against the backdrop of green fields and towering Mount Mayon.

Nicknamed the ‘Summer Capital of the Philippines’, Baguio was originally designed as a vacation destination for Americans in the early 20th century. Set 5,200 feet above sea level, Baguio’s climate is distinctly cooler than most other areas of the country, making it a favorite getaway spot of both tourists and locals. Dotted with pretty parks, pine trees, and heritage buildings, the town is a pleasant place for horseback riding and hiking. It’s also an excellent shopping destination, with dozens of thrift shops (called ukay-ukay) found along Session Road, as well as handcrafted goodies available at the downtown market.

Alaminos is home to the Hundred Islands, a group of 123 islands located off its coast. Each of the islands is distinct, with many known for their unusual mushroom-like appearance caused by tides eroding their bases over the years. Island hopping boat trips are a popular activity, with some islands home to pretty beaches, caves, and interesting bird-life. In addition to touring the islands, many visitors stop to hike the islands’ often-hilly terrain or camp overnight. Alaminos itself features a number of elegant heritage homes, and it is well-known for a special type of longganisa made with a flavorful type of local garlic.

With its cobblestone houses, craggy seaside cliffs and rolling hills, Basco looks more like part of the European countryside than the capital of the Philippine’s municipality of Batanes. Pretty Basco Lighthouse is located about 0.7 miles north of the town, and offers fantastic views over the coast. Basco is an excellent base for exploring the Batanes Islands, or you can simply stroll through its charming flower-filled streets. Basco is also a good starting point for hikes to the top of nearby Mount Iraya, a 4,977-foot dormant volcano which can be reached in a three-hour trek from the town.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Places to Stay

Bed & breakfasts in the philippines.

What Are the Best Resorts to Book in the Philippines?

The Best Hotels to Book in the Philippines for Every Traveller

The Best Resorts in Palawan, the Philippines

The Best Hotels to Book In Tagaytay for Every Traveller

The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Tagaytay, the Philippines

The Most Budget-Friendly Hotels in Tagaytay

The Best Hotels to Book in Pasay, the Philippines

Hip Holiday Apartments in the Philippines You'll Want to Call Home

See & Do

Exhilarating ways to experience the great outdoors in the philippines.

The Best Hotels to Book in Palawan, the Philippines

Where to Stay in Tagaytay, the Philippines, for a Local Experience

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1538642
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• For International Visitors

Visa Waiver Program

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) , administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in consultation with the State Department, permits citizens of 41 countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. In return, those 41 countries must permit U.S. citizens and nationals to travel to their countries for a similar length of time without a visa for business or tourism purposes.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Authorization via ESTA does not determine whether a traveler is admissible to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers determine admissibility upon travelers’ arrival. The ESTA application collects biographic information and answers to VWP eligibility questions. ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, though it is recommended that travelers apply as soon as they begin preparing travel plans or prior to purchasing airline tickets.

Other Visa Information

• Frequently Asked Questions about the VWP and the VWP Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015
• Frequently Asked Questions about the VWP and the ESTA
• VWP Signatory Carriers List
• Guam- CNMI Visa Waiver Program
• Guam-CNMI VWP Signatory Carriers
• Travel by Pleasure Boats or Ferries

Flying to Canada? Entry Rules Have Changed

Canada has introduced a new entry requirement, known as Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) , for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travelers with a valid visa.

Apply for a Canada eTA

Now boarding: Faces, places, and trends shaping tourism in 2024

After falling by 75 percent in 2020, travel is on its way to a full recovery by the end of 2024. Domestic travel is expected to grow 3 percent annually and reach 19 billion lodging nights per year by 2030. 1 Unless otherwise noted, the source for all data and projections is Oxford Economics. Over the same time frame, international travel should likewise ramp up to its historical average of nine billion nights. Spending on travel is expected to follow a similar trajectory, with an estimated $8.6 trillion in traveler outlays in 2024, representing roughly 9 percent of this year’s global GDP.

About the authors

This article is a collaborative effort by Caroline Tufft , Margaux Constantin , Matteo Pacca , and Ryan Mann , with Ivan Gladstone and Jasperina de Vries, representing views from McKinsey’s Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure Practice.

There’s no doubt people still love to travel and will continue to seek new experiences in new places. But where will travelers come from, and where will they go? We developed a snapshot of current traveler flows, along with estimates for growth through 2030. For the purposes of this report, we have divided the world into four regions—the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa.

Our analysis identifies three major themes for industry stakeholders to consider:

• The bulk of travel spending is close to home. Stakeholders should ensure they capture the full potential of domestic travel before shifting their focus to international travelers. And they should start with international travelers who visit nearby countries—as intraregional trips represent the largest travel segment after domestic trips.
• Source markets are shifting. Although established source markets continue to anchor global travel, Eastern Europe, India, and Southeast Asia are all becoming fast-growing sources of outbound tourism.
• The destinations of the future may not be the ones you imagine. Alongside enduring favorites, places that weren’t on many tourists’ maps are finding clever ways to lure international travelers and establish themselves as desirable destinations.

The bulk of travel spending is close to home

International travel might feel more glamorous, but tourism players should not forget that domestic travel still represents the bulk of the market, accounting for 75 percent of global travel spending (Exhibit 1). Domestic travel recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic faster than international travel, as is typical coming out of downturns. And although there has been a recent boom in “revenge travel,” with travelers prioritizing international trips that were delayed by the pandemic, a return to prepandemic norms, in which domestic travel represents 70 percent of spending, is expected by 2030.

The United States is the world’s largest domestic travel market at $1 trillion in annual spending. Sixty-eight percent of all trips that start in the United States remain within its borders. Domestic demand has softened slightly, as American travelers return abroad. 2 Dawit Habtemariam, “Domestic U.S. tourism growth levels off as Americans head overseas,” Skift, August 18, 2023. But tourism players with the right offerings are still thriving: five national parks broke attendance records in 2023 (including Joshua Tree National Park, which capitalized on growing interest from stargazers indulging in “dark sky” tourism 3 Scott McConkey, “5 national parks set attendance records in 2023, and the reasons may surprise you,” Wealth of Geeks, April 16, 2024. ).

China’s $744 billion domestic travel market is currently the world’s second largest. Chinese travelers spent the pandemic learning to appreciate the diversity of experiences on offer within their own country. Even as borders open back up, Chinese travelers are staying close to home. And domestic destinations are benefiting: for example, Changchun (home to the Changchun Ice and Snow Festival) realized 160 percent year-on-year growth in visitors in 2023. 4 Shi Xiaoji, “Why don’t Chinese people like to travel abroad anymore? The global tourism industry has lost 900 billion yuan. What is the situation?,” NetEase, February 12, 2024. In 2024, domestic travel during Lunar New Year exceeded prepandemic levels by 19 percent.

China’s domestic travel market is expected to grow 12 percent annually and overtake the United States’ to become the world’s largest by 2030. Hotel construction reflects this expectation: 30 percent of the global hotel construction pipeline is currently concentrated in China. The pipeline is heavily skewed toward luxury properties, with more than twice as many luxury hotels under construction in China as in the United States.

India, currently the world’s sixth-largest domestic travel market by spending, is another thriving area for domestic travel. With the subcontinent’s growing middle class powering travel spending growth of roughly 9 percent per year, India’s domestic market could overtake Japan’s and Mexico’s to become the world’s fourth largest by 2030. Domestic air passenger traffic in India is projected to double by 2030, 5 Murali Krishnan, “Can India’s airports cope with rapid passenger growth?,” Deutsche Welle, February 7, 2024. boosted in part by a state-subsidized initiative that aims to connect underserved domestic airports. 6 “India is seeing a massive aviation boom,” Economist , November 23, 2023.

When travelers do go abroad, they often stay close to home (Exhibit 2).

Europe and Asia, in particular, demonstrate strong and growing intraregional travel markets.

Recognizing this general trend, stakeholders have been funneling investment toward regional tourism destinations. An Emirati wealth fund, for instance, has announced its intent to invest roughly $35 billion into established hospitality properties and development opportunities in Egypt. 7 Michael Gunn and Mirette Magdy, “UAE’s $35 billion Egypt deal marks Gulf powers’ buying spree,” Bloomberg, April 27, 2024.

Europe has long played host to a high share of intraregional travel. Seventy percent of its travelers’ international trips stay within the region. Europe’s most popular destinations for intraregional travelers are perennial warm-weather favorites—Spain (18 percent), Italy (10 percent), and France (8 percent)—with limited change to these preferences expected between now and 2030.

Despite longer travel distances between Asian countries, Asia’s intraregional travel market is beginning to resemble Europe’s. Intraregional travel currently accounts for about 60 percent of international trips in Asia—a share expected to climb to 64 percent by 2030. As in Europe in past decades, Asian intraregional travel is benefiting from diminishing visa barriers and the development of a low-cost, regional flight network.

Thailand is projected to enjoy continued, growing popularity with Asian travelers. Thailand waived visa requirements for Chinese tourists in 2023 and plans to do the same for Indian tourists starting in 2024. It has aggressively targeted the fast-growing Indian traveler segment, launching more than 50 marketing campaigns directed at Indians over the past decade. The investment may be paying off: Bangkok recently overtook Dubai as the most popular city destination for Indian tourists. 8 “Bangkok overtakes Dubai as top destination for Indians post visa relaxation, reveals Agoda,” PR Newswire, January 18, 2024.

A McKinsey ConsumerWise survey on consumer sentiment, conducted in February 2024, suggests that Chinese travelers are also exhibiting high interest in international travel, with 36 percent of survey respondents indicating that they intend to spend more on international travel in the next three months. 9 Daniel Zipser, “ China brief: Consumers are spending again (outside of China) ,” McKinsey, April 8, 2024. Much of this interest is directed toward regional destinations such as Southeast Asia and Japan, with interest in travel to Europe down from previous years. 10 Guang Chen, Zi Chen, Steve Saxon, and Jackey Yu, “ Outlook for China tourism 2023: Light at the end of the tunnel ,” McKinsey, May 9, 2023.

Given travelers’ preference for proximity, how can tourism stakeholders further capitalize on domestic and intraregional travel demand? Here are a few strategies:

• Craft offerings that encourage domestic tourists to rediscover local gems. Destinations, hotels, and transportation providers can encourage domestic tourists to integrate lesser-known cultural landmarks into their trips to visit friends and relatives. In France, the upscale hotel chain Relais & Châteaux markets historic properties that lie far from classic tourist sights—such as Château Saint-Jean in rural Auvergne—as a welcome escape from the bustle of Paris. In Mexico, the Pueblos Mágicos program has successfully boosted domestic tourist visits to a set of “magical towns” that showcase Mexican heritage.
• Fold one-off domestic destinations into fuller itineraries. Route 66 in the United States is a classic road trip pathway, which spurs visits to attractions all along the highway’s length. Tourism stakeholders can collaborate to create similar types of domestic itineraries around the world. For instance, Mexico has expanded on its Pueblos Mágicos concept by branding coordinated visits to multiple villages as “magical routes.” In France, local tourism boards and vineyards have collaborated to promote bucket list “wine routes” around the country.
• Make crossing borders into neighboring countries seamless. Removing logistical barriers to travel can nudge tourists to upgrade a one-off trip to a single attraction into a bucket list journey across multiple, less-trodden destinations. In Africa, for example, Ethiopian Airlines is facilitating cross-border travel to major regional tourist sites through improved air connectivity. In Asia, Thailand has announced its intent to create a joint visa easing travel among Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Source markets are shifting

The United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, and France remain the world’s five largest sources of travelers, in that order. These countries collectively accounted for 38 percent of international travel spending in 2023 and are expected to remain the top five source markets through 2030. But interest in travel is blossoming in other parts of the world—causing a shift in the balance of outbound travel flows (Exhibit 3).

North Americans’ travel spending is projected to hold steady at roughly 3 percent annual growth. US consumers voice growing concerns about inflation, and the most cost-constrained traveler segments are reducing travel, which is affecting ultra-low-cost airlines and budget hotels. Most travelers, however, plan to continue traveling: McKinsey research suggests that American consumers rank international and domestic travel as their highest-priority areas for discretionary spending. Instead of canceling their trips, these consumers are adapting their behavior by traveling during off-peak periods or booking travel further in advance. Travel spending by Europeans paints a slightly rosier picture, with roughly 5 percent projected annual growth. Meanwhile, the projected 12 percent annual growth in Chinese travelers’ spending should anchor substantial increases in travel spending across Northeast Asia.

Alongside these enduring traveler segments, new groups of travelers are emerging. Eastern Europe, India, and Southeast Asia are still comparatively small source markets, but they are developing fast-growing pools of first-time tourists (Exhibit 4).

India’s breakneck GDP growth of 6 percent year over year is bolstering a new generation of travelers, 11 Benjamin Laker, “India will grow to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027,” Forbes , February 23, 2024. resulting in a projected annual growth in travel spending of 9 percent between now and 2030. Indian air carriers and lodging companies are making substantial investments to meet projected demand. Budget airline IndiGo placed the largest aircraft order in commercial aviation history in 2023, when it pledged to buy 500 Airbus A320 planes 12 Anna Cooban, “Biggest plane deal in history: Airbus clinches massive order from India’s IndiGo,” CNN, June 19, 2023. ; that same week, Air India nearly equaled IndiGo’s order size with purchase agreements for 250 Airbus and 220 Boeing jets. IndiGo later added an order for 30 additional Airbus A350 planes, well suited to serving both domestic and international routes. 13 “Airbus confirms IndiGo's A350 aircraft order,” Economic Times , May 6, 2024. The Indian Hotels Company Limited is ramping up its hotel pipeline, aiming to open two new hotels per month in the near future. International players are not sitting on the sidelines: seven hotel chains are launching new brands in India in 2024, 14 Peden Doma Bhutia, “Indian Hotels expansion plans: 2 new brands launching, 2 hotels opening every month,” Skift, February 2, 2024. including Marriott’s first Moxy- and Tribute-branded hotels in India and entrants from Hilton’s Curio and Tapestry brands. 15 Forum Gandhi, “Check-in frenzy: International hotel giants unleash fresh brands in India’s booming hospitality landscape,” Hindu Businessline , February 13, 2024. Development focus has shifted away from major metropolises such as Mumbai and Delhi and toward fast-developing, smaller cities such as Chandigarh and Hyderabad.

Southeast Asian travel spending is projected to grow at roughly 7 percent per year. Pockets of particularly high growth exist in Cambodia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. To capitalize on this blossoming source market, neighboring countries are rolling out attractive visa arrangements: for example, China has agreed to reciprocal visa waivers for short-term travelers from Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. 16 Julienna Law, “China launches ‘visa-free era’ with Southeast Asia. Will travel retail boom?,” Jing Daily , January 30, 2024.

Travel spending by Eastern Europeans is expected to grow at 7 percent per year until 2030—two percentage points higher than spending by Western Europeans. Areas of especially high growth include the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland, where middle-class travelers are increasingly venturing farther afield. Major tourism players, including the TUI Group, have tapped into these new source markets by offering charter flights to warm-weather destinations such as Egypt. 17 Hildbrandt von Klaus, “TUI develops Czech Republic as a new source market,” FVW, December 22, 2023.

Although the number of travelers from these new source markets is growing, their purchasing power remains relatively limited. Compared with Western European travelers (who average $159 per night in total travel spending), South Asians spend 20 percent less, Eastern Europeans spend 40 percent less, and Southeast Asians spend 55 percent less. Only 3 percent of the current Asian hotel construction pipeline caters to economy travelers, suggesting a potential supply gap of rooms that could appeal to budget-constrained tourists.

While acknowledging that historical source markets will continue to constitute the bulk of travel spending, tourism players can consider actions such as these to capitalize on growing travel demand from newer markets:

• Reduce obstacles to travel. Countries can look for ways to strategically invest in simplifying travel for visitors from growing source markets. In 2017, for example, Azerbaijan introduced express processing of electronic visas for Indian visitors; annual arrivals from India increased fivefold in two years. Requirements regarding passport photocopies or in-person check-ins can similarly be assessed with an eye toward reducing red tape for travelers.
• Use culturally relevant marketing channels to reach new demographics. Unique, thoughtful marketing strategies can help destinations place themselves on first-time travelers’ bucket lists. For example, after the release of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara , a popular Bollywood movie shot in Spain with support from the Spanish Ministry of Tourism, Indian tourism to Spain increased by 65 percent. 18 “ Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara part of syllabus in Spain colleges,” India Today , June 6, 2004.
• Give new travelers the tech they expect. Travelers from newer source markets often have access to tech-forward travel offerings. For example, Indian travelers can travel anywhere within their country without physical identification, thanks to the Digi Yatra app. The Southeast Asian rideshare app Grab has several helpful travel features that competitors lack, such as automated menu translation and currency conversion. Tourism stakeholders should consider how to adapt to the tech expectations of newer travelers, integrating relevant offerings that ease journeys.
• Create vibrant experiences tailored to different price points. Crafting lower-budget offerings for more cost-constrained travelers doesn’t need to result in giving them a subpar experience. Capsule hotels, in which guests sleep in small cubbies, began as a response to the high cost of accommodations in Japan, but they have become an attraction in their own right—appearing on many must-do lists. 19 Philip Tang, “24 of the best experiences in Japan,” Lonely Planet, March 23, 2024.

The places you’ll go: The destinations of the future may not be the ones you imagine

The world’s top ten destination countries (the United States, Spain, China, France, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Italy, Thailand, Japan, and India, in that order) currently receive 45 percent of all travel spending, including for domestic travel. But some new locales are gaining traction (Exhibit 5).

A significant number of travelers are expanding their horizons, booking journeys to less visited countries that are near to old standbys. For instance, Laos and Malaysia, which both border Thailand—an established destination that is home to Bangkok, the world’s most visited city 20 Katherine LaGrave, “This is the world’s most visited city,” AFAR , January 31, 2024. —are up a respective 20 percent and 17 percent, respectively, in year-over-year international travel spending.

The world’s top ten destination countries currently receive 45 percent of all travel spending, including domestic-travel spending. But some new locales are gaining traction.

Several other countries that have crafted thoughtful tourism demand generation strategies—such as Peru, the Philippines, Rwanda, and Vietnam—are also expected to reap benefits in the coming years. Vietnam logged a remarkable 40 percent increase in tourism spending in the five years before the pandemic. Postpandemic, it has rebounded in part by waiving visa requirements for European travelers (while indicating intent to offer similar exemptions in the future for Chinese and Indian travelers). 21 Ashvita Singh, “Vietnam looks to offer visa-free entry to Indians: India report,” Skift, November 20, 2023. The Philippines has made a concerted effort to shift its sun-and-beach branding toward a more well-rounded image, replacing its long-standing “It’s more fun in the Philippines” tourism slogan with “Love the Philippines.” Peru is highlighting less visited archeological sites while also marketing itself as a top-notch culinary destination through the promotion of Peruvian restaurants abroad. Rwanda is investing in infrastructure to become a major African transit hub, facilitated by Qatar Airways’ purchase of a 60 percent stake in the country’s major airport. 22 Dylan Cresswell, “Rwanda plots ambitious tourism recovery,” African Business , July 28, 2022. Rwanda has also successfully capitalized on sustainable tourism: by charging $1,500 per gorilla trekking permit, for instance, it has maximized revenue while reducing environmental impact.

Tourism players might consider taking some of these actions to lure tourists to less familiar destinations:

• Collaborate across the tourism ecosystem. Promotion is not solely the domain of destination marketing organizations. Accommodation, transportation, and experience providers can also play important roles. In Singapore, for instance, the luxury resort Marina Bay Sands partners extensively with Singapore Airlines and the Singapore Tourism Board to offer compelling tourism offerings. Past collaborations have included flight and stay packages built around culinary festivals. 23 “Singapore Tourism Board, Marina Bay Sands & UOB partner to enliven Marina Bay precinct,” Singapore Tourism Board news release, January 25, 2024.
• Use infrastructure linkage to promote new destinations. By extending route options, transportation providers can encourage visitors to create itineraries that combine familiar destinations with new attractions. In Asia, Thailand’s tourism authority has attempted to nudge visitors away from the most heavily trafficked parts of the country, such as Bangkok and Phuket, and toward less popular destinations.
• Deploy social media to reach different demographics. Innovative social media campaigns can help put a destination on the map. Australia launched its “Ruby the kangaroo” campaign in China to coincide with the return of postpandemic air capacity between the two places. A video adapted for Chinese context (with appropriate gestures and a hashtag in Mandarin) garnered more than 20 million views in a single day on one of China’s largest social media platforms. 24 Nicole Gong, “Can Ruby the kangaroo bring Chinese tourists hopping back to Australia?,” SBS, June 5, 2023.
• Embrace unknown status. “Off the beaten path” messaging can appeal to widely traveled tourists seeking fresh experiences. Saudi Arabia’s “#WhereInTheWorld” campaign promoted the country’s tourist spots by acknowledging that they are less familiar to travelers, using a series of images that compared these spots with better-known destinations.

As tourism stakeholders look to the future, they can take steps to ensure that they continue to delight existing travelers while also embracing new ones. Domestic and intraregional tourism remain major opportunities—catering to local tourists’ preferences while building infrastructure that makes travel more seamless within a region could help capture them. Creative collaboration among tourism stakeholders can help put lesser-known destinations on the map. Travel tides are shifting. Expertly navigating these currents could yield rich rewards.

Caroline Tufft is a senior partner in McKinsey’s London office, Margaux Constantin is a partner in the Dubai office, Matteo Pacca is a senior partner in the Paris office, Ryan Mann is a partner in the Chicago office, Ivan Gladstone is an associate partner in the Riyadh office, and Jasperina de Vries is an associate partner in the Amsterdam office.

The authors wish to thank Abdulhadi Alghamdi, Alessandra Powell, Alex Dichter, Cedric Tsai, Diane Vu, Elisa Wallwitz, Lily Miller, Maggie Coffey, Nadya Snezhkova, Nick Meronyk, Paulina Baum, Peimin Suo, Rebecca Stone, Sarah Fellay, Sarah Sahel, Steffen Fuchs, Steffen Köpke, Steve Saxon, Sophia Wang, and Urs Binggeli for their contributions to this article.

This article was edited by Seth Stevenson, a senior editor in the New York office.

Explore a career with us

Related articles.

The future of tourism: Bridging the labor gap, enhancing customer experience

The promise of travel in the age of AI

From India to the world: Unleashing the potential of India’s tourists

Best Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

Select starting location

Select dates

Add travelers

Refine the results by using the filters

Breathtaking 12-Day Islands Tour Package to Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, Cebu & Siargao

Ultimate 2-Week Islands & Adventure Tour Package to Palawan, Boracay, Cebu & Bohol from Manila

Ultimate 1-Month Philippine Adventure Tour Package to Boracay, Palawan, Siargao, Bohol, Cebu, Baguio

Remarkable 1-Week Sightseeing & Island Hopping Tour Package to Puerto Princesa, Cebu & Boracay

Magical 2-Week Beaches & Adventure Package Tour of Cebu, Boracay & Palawan

Incredible 10-Day Sightseeing & Island Hopping Tour Package to Bohol, Cebu & Puerto Princesa

Action-Packed 12-Day Hiking Package to Highest & Scenic Philippine Mountains

Amazing 2-Week Island Hopping & Nature Tour Package to Palawan, Cebu & Boracay from Manila

10-Day Beautiful Islands, Countryside & Nature Tour Package to El Nido, Cebu, Bohol & Pampanga

Exciting 10-Day Islands, Falls & Nature Tour Package to Cebu, Boracay, Manila & Laguna

Fun 10-Day Islands, Whale Shark & Nature Tour Package to Boracay, Cebu, Puerto Princesa & El Nido

Stunning 10-Day Islands Tour to Cebu, Bohol & Siquijor Package from Manila with Hotels

Ultimate 1-Week Palawan Tour Package to Puerto Princesa, Port Barton & El Nido from Manila

Exciting 10-Day Islands Adventure Package to Dumaguete, Siquijor, Cebu & Siargao from Manila

10-Day Beautiful Palawan Beaches Tour Package to Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, El Nido & Coron

Fun 10-Day Nature & Adventure Tour Package to Bohol, Cebu, El Nido & Puerto Princesa Palawan

Fun-Filled 10-Day Nature Adventure Package to Cebu & Palawan Islands from Manila

Exciting 10-Day Islands & Adventure Tour Package to Cebu, Coron & El Nido Palawan from Manila

Breathtaking 10-Day Islands Tour to Palawan & Boracay Package from Manila

Unforgettable 10-Day Islands Tour Package to El Nido, Cebu & Siargao from Manila

Amazing 2-Week Heritage & Scenic Tour Package to llocos, Mt. Pinatubo, Baguio, Sagada & Bohol

Exciting 2-Week History & Adventure Tour Package to Ilocos, Mt. Pinatubo, Baguio & Sagada

Breathtaking 12-Day Islands Tour Package to Palawan's El Nido & Coron, Boracay, Bohol & Cebu

Scenic 10-Day Beaches & Countryside Tour Package to Coron, Cebu, Bohol & Boracay from Manila

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Top Tours in the Philippines

Island hopping tours, water activity tours, adventure tours, best of the philippines, philippine airport and sea transfers, philippines vacation packages, philippine scuba diving packages & courses, philippines day passes and tickets, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Neal Patrick Joseph Ocampo

My life and business partner, Tim, and I had a great time! I booked a 10-day tour through Guide to the Philippines. At first, I just felt that handing over our precious holiday to someone else was a bit uncomfortable, but we are so glad we did! This team of passionate professionals did everything they could to ensure we had an incredible holiday! The tour itself was extraordinary. We traveled to Bohol, Cebu, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa, beautiful places here in the Philippines, where we got to partake in some great activities like island hopping, folk dancing, lunch while river cruising, snorkeling, volleyball, kayaking, swimming with whale sharks and feeding monkeys; possibly a bit too wild, as we also bolted on all of the additional extras like mangrove boating, zip lining, and hiking, but that was more us, biting off more than we could chew but we don’t regret a thing! All the staff, from the airlines to the hotel and the tour itself, even those I only talked to through email whenever I have questions, are outstanding at doing their job! They took care of us like we were friends for a long time. To share why I need to have this vacation, I struggled to produce creative thoughts for the past few months (March to April), and I had to postpone some of my plans due to my lack of motivation to accomplish many important agendas. During the vacation, however, after doing some cleansing, grounding, and centering works in El Nido and thanksgiving offerings to nature (we are animistic), both during our easy and free time and a 10-day business with a leisure getaway, I'm always fired on by ingenious and innovative thoughts. And the thing is, I don't feel drained and exhausted physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I can still work early in the morning until evening without checking my pulse to see if it is still beating. And everything I do is yielding positive results! I'm more than happy than ever! Knowing how a tour like this can help you escape challenging times is incredible. I actually like this routine and my newly gained stamina. I'm just amazed by myself now. So once again, thank you, Guide to the Philippines, for giving us such an adventure! I'm planning to take my whole team to El Nido next year, so I expect we will book another tour through your site!

Samantha Jane Roden

I did a 30day tour with Guide to the Philippines. Joymie took care of me from the minute I showed interest in booking, all the way through everyday my tour too. I was treated like an absolute queen everything was taken care off for me, internal flights, ferries, transfer at every pick up. Some lovely hotel, some exemptional ones too. The Filipino people are so warm kind & very friendly. The islands are just stunning. I give my experience with Guide to the Philippines 10/10.

Very nice trip. The tours are good. The city tour in puerto Pricessa was very poor.

TransAsia Shipping Lines Inc.

Guide to the Philippines has really helped me to get around Palawan, and always making sure if I was comfortable. That was really nice! Hotels -Hue hotel was perfect! Very nice and comfortable, and great styling. The food was super, and the staff nice. The breakfast options were amazing!!! -For the budget option i was supposed to have another hotel, but because it was so busy, I had to switch to Marianne hotel. A hotel that is not finished yet, and still under construction, so no pool and quite some noise and building site smells. Room was all right, but the cleaning could have been better (water stains on mirror and such). Breakfast was not so good, the second day I even chose to have it somewhere else. Transport The transport was arranged perfectly! Nice drivers and on time. Tours - underground river was amazing! Otherworldly! We were lucky because of the weather, other ones were canceled. Lunch was ok. Apparently people could choose an add on to this tour, and go ziplining. Some chose to do this, resulting in having to wait for quite a while. Could have done without that, -honda bay tour was super! The lunch they prepared was absolutely lovely, and the guide took well care of us. We saw some lovely islands and beautiful beaches! Good atmosphere! - Tour C El Nido : i was supposed to be on another tour but in all confusion, i ender up on this one. It was too crowded, and the boat with 30 capacity had 43 tourists on it. After asking, they had to get extra life jackets from another boat. It was not comfortable with so many people on the boat and on the islands. It really was mass tourism, but at least I saw the beautiful nature! All in all, I am very happy I had the help of Guide to the Philippines and would definitely book again! But no more El Nido! Thank you!

Frequently asked questions

How many days are enough to visit the philippines, what is the recommended duration for the tour packages in my philippines itinerary, what are the best philippine itinerary tour packages in the philippines, what are extended-stay hotels in the philippines, where are the best destinations for long stays, what are the benefits of booking philippine itinerary tour packages, what kind of travelers are best suited for philippine itinerary tour packages, what should i pack for the trip, can i customize my itinerary, when is the best time to visit the philippines, are there any health considerations.

Download the Philippines’ biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add the Philippines’ biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in the Philippines

Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines

Philippines Tour Packages

Boracay Island

Bohol Island

Cebu Island

Coron Palawan

El Nido Palawan

Siargao Island

Iloilo City and Nearby

Where to watch UEFA EURO 2024: TV broadcast partners, live streams

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Article summary

Find your local broadcast partners, and get live streams of UEFA EURO 2024 matches where you are.

Article top media content