philippines trip places

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.

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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:

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Recommended The Philippines Hotels:

Money-saving tip : Use promo code “ KLOOKDETOURISTA ” to grab 5% OFF hotels and 3% OFF tours/activities next time you book on Klook.

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Island Hopping in Boracay

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

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.

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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

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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.

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Philippines and beyond

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.

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

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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.

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Philippines Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Best Time to Go to the Philippines

• January to March | Ideal Months to Travel in the Philippines
• April to June | Summer and Peak Season in the Philippines
• July to October | Rainy and Off-Peak Season in the Philippines
• November to December | Holiday Season in the Philippines

Geography of the Philippines

• Arriving at Manila Airport: What You Need to Know

How to Get Around the Philippines

Hotels in the philippines, best hotels and resorts in luzon, best hotels and resorts in visayas, best hotels and resorts in mindanao.

• Best theme hotels and resorts in the Philippines

Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines

• Manila | The Capital of the Philippines
• Palawan | Gateway to the Best Islands in the Philippines
• Boracay Island | Tropical Paradise
• Cebu | Islands, Diving, Historical Sites, and More
• Bohol | Countryside and Island Tours
• What to Eat in the Philippines
• Suggested 2-Week Itinerary in the Philippines
• Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to the Philippines

Discover the treasures of the Philippines from beaches and islands, highlands, historical spots, and must-try food and fun activities. Find out the best time to visit and the best tourist spots. Learn how to get around from the Manila airport. Discover the best places to eat. Take inspiration from a 2-week itinerary that will take you around the best destinations in the country. Read this article for an introduction to traveling around the Philippines. 

It can be difficult to decide where to travel first in the Philippines. There are so many beautiful, postcard-worthy white sand beaches and pristine islands all over the Philippines, complete with crystal clear waters and rich and diverse marine life.

• Explore the widest collection of Philippine tours for your vacation
• Check out flights to the Philippines

Travelers who love swimming would find it hard to leave, as idyllic  beach trips , exciting  island-hopping adventures , and incredible  diving tours  are abundant here. The Philippines' beaches are among the best in the world as well, whether it's white sand, black volcanic sand, or even pink sand in some places. 

See our popular Top Tours in the Philippines

Boracay island hopping shared tour with lunch, kawa hot bath & snorkeling package, coron island hopping tour to kayangan lake & barracuda lake | palawan super ultimate package, shared puerto princesa underground river tour in palawan with lunch & hotel transfers.

• Find the best Philippines vacation packages for a hassle-free trip
• See destinations for solo travel in the Philippines

You can also take your pick from the Philippines' best festivals  that showcase the locals' culture and experience unique food trips that will get you craving for more Filipino food . 

If you're traveling to the Philippines soon, this ultimate guide has everything you need to know to plan your trip. 

The Philippines has two distinct seasons, wet and dry. The dry season starts from November until June. These months are considered the best time to travel to most destinations in the Philippines .

The wet season, on the other hand, is from July to October. During this time, an average of nine typhoons hit the Philippines and may cause flooding and landslides in some areas. While not all typhoons make landfall, the heavy rains may still affect your trip, so make sure to check weather forecasts. 

• Check out our  2-week Philippine itinerary packages

Note, though, that it doesn’t rain every day, nor does it rain the whole day during the wet season, unless there is a typhoon. It's still best to check the weather forecast for your Philippine destinations when planning a trip. Weather-wise, here’s what you can expect when traveling in the Philippines and where to go.

See our popular Best Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

January to march | ideal months to travel in the philippines.

January to March is usually the ideal period to travel to the Philippines. Even if there are bigger chances of precipitation, these are the months of the year when the temperature is cooler. The month of March also signals the upcoming festivals and the long weekend of Holy Week (Easter).

These months also highlight some of the biggest and grandest festivities:

The province of Aklan, where Boracay Island is located, commemorates the Ati-Atihan Festival in the second week of January. Check Boracay tours  and Boracay tour packages with hotel and airfare for your island getaway.

The highly anticipated annual Sinulog Festival   in the province of Cebu is celebrated every third Sunday of January. Check Cebu activities  and Cebu packages  for your trip.

Millions of devotees gather in Quiapo in  Manila City to join the procession during the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9.

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival is usually every February or March. For 2024, it will be held in New Clark City, Tarlac. Read our Philippine Hot Air Balloon 2024 guide to learn more.

See our popular Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Tickets & Packages

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The Summer Capital, Baguio City , parades beautifully-adorned floats with flowers during the Panagbenga Festival in February. Check Baguio tours  and Baguio package deals with hotel  to make your trip more fun and hassle-free.

There are weeklong religious activities during Holy Week (Easter) in March or early April all over the country, but more specifically in Pampanga . Check Pampanga experiences  to make the most of your vacation.

April to June | Summer and Peak Season in the Philippines

During this time, the temperature and humidity levels are highest. This marks the summer season in the Philippines. Locals plan beach getaways or vacations in their hometowns. Expect that beach resorts will most likely be fully booked and have higher rates. 

The sun is the strongest from April to June, so precautions are needed when spending most of the time under the sun. Lather sunblock every two hours to avoid sunburn.

See our popular Island Hopping Tours

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Some popular summer destinations in the Philippines include:

The natural, scenic, and hidden gems of Palawan. Check some Palawan activities  and learn more about the province in this Palawan travel guide . 

The white beaches, crystal clear waters, and extreme water sports of Boracay . 

The surfing paradise of La Union , Baler, Zambales, and Siargao. Check  Siargao adventures  and   learn more about Siargao in this guide . Book Siargao tour packages with airfare . 

The beaches and diving spots in Batangas . Explore the marine life of Batangas through an Anilao diving tour. Check other Batangas escapades .

• Check out our article on the Best Beaches to Visit in the Philippines

Aside from beaches and  island hopping tours in the Philippines, here are other summer season activities you can try:

Watch the Moriones Festival in Marinduque and how the people in Pampanga  celebrate the season during Holy Week. Check some activities in Marinduque and tours in Pampanga .

Taste the freshest catch in Dagupan City during Bangus Festival every April.

Head to Quezon Province and witness the colorful Pahiyas Festival, a thanksgiving festival held every 15th of May.

Witness the festivities and watch the beautiful women of the country all dressed up during Flores De Mayo.

Take part during the different pistang bayan (town fiestas) in the provinces of Batangas and Bulacan. 

In June, take part in the combined Pintados-Kasadyaan festivals of Tacloban City that features a sailboat race, the Subiran Regatta, and the religious rite Balyuan. Join a Tacloban city tour to get the full experience.

Join the celebration of St. John the Baptist's feast day, where locals get doused with water on June 24th. It’s officially called the Wattah Wattah Festival or Basaan Festival in Filipino. It's usually celebrated in Batangas, Bataan, and Nueva Ecija, to name a few.

July to October | Rainy and Off-Peak Season in the Philippines  

The volume of rainfall in the Philippines increases from July to August . These months are considered the wettest months, although it does not necessarily mean that it will rain all day long.

When typhoons hit, most of the islands in the country are affected, making trips around the country (depending on where the typhoon hits) difficult. Expect flight delays and even cancellations in some cases.

Philippine flights to different islands and beach resorts are cheaper during these months. Go to the beach, enjoy a food trip, or visit museums and historical places. Here are some other rainy season activities in the Philippines that you can try:

Go surfing and island hopping in Siargao . Browse our Siargao tour packages with airfare . 

Watch the dramatization of the blood compact between Sikatuna and Legazpi in Bohol during the Sandugo Festival. Check some  Bohol activities  and Bohol package deals for your escapade.

Catch the colorful Pagoda Festival in Bulacan.

Witness the street parades and dances in the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City . Check Davao activities to best experience the province.

Observe the Fluvial Parade of the Nuestra Señora Peñafrancia in Naga City.

Watch the elaborate and colorful MassKara Festival in Bacolod City. Check some Bacolod tours and learn more about the province in this Bacolod travel guide .

For Filipinos, Christmas or the holiday season starts as early as September or the beginning of the -ber months. Some establishments start to decorate their stores with Christmas ornaments as early as September 1st.

November to December | Holiday Season in the Philippines   

November marks not only the beginning of the dry season but also the start of the long holiday celebration in the Philippines. These are the best months to visit Philippine cities because of the night markets, light and sound shows, and Christmas bazaars.

• Read our article on the Top Philippine Christmas holiday destinations

November to December are the best months to do your holiday shopping, as most malls are on sale and extended operating hours. However, there are other things you can do too:

Watch the Higantes Festival (giant paper effigies) in Rizal. 

Appreciate a grand Christmas experience in San Fernando, Pampanga, and its Giant Lantern Festival. 

Enjoy the cold weather and admire the views of Banaue Rice Terraces while sipping a hot cup of tea or coffee in Benguet . 

Choosing the best time to visit the Philippines depends on what kind of activity you want to do. Come at different times to appreciate everything the country has to offer.

See our popular Sagada-Banaue Tour Packages

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The Philippines' geography  is divided into three island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Before planning a trip to the Philippines, it's important to know where your chosen destinations are. Your transportation, schedule, and budget will depend on the distances between each place. You can also book all-inclusive Philippines vacation packages that will take you around the top tourist spots in the country. 

If you're outside the Philippines, your first destination will most likely be Manila , the Philippine capital located in Luzon.  Most connecting flights to other destinations in the countries continue from  Manila Airport .

The Luzon island group also includes other big islands and island groups like Palawan, Batanes , Baguio, and Vigan . Top Luzon activities include city sightseeing, beach adventures, and some island-hopping trips. Check out the top Luzon tourist spots that you should visit. 

See our popular Luzon Tour Packages

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Visayas   is located   in the central part of the Philippines. Cebu is the main gateway to other Visayas destinations. Visayas is home to destinations like Boracay, Bohol, Iloilo, Negros Region, Leyte, and Siquijor. The top activities and best tourist spots in Visayas include idyllic beaches, island-hopping, outdoor adventures, and food tours.

See our popular Visayas Tour Packages

Mindanao is located in the southern part of the Philippines. Davao City is the main gateway to other destinations in this island group, which includes Siargao, Camiguin, Zamboanga, and Cagayan de Oro, to name a few. Top things to do and best tourist spots in Mindanao include outdoor adventures, beach escapades, and island-hopping.  Check out our Davao tourist spots itinerary if you're exploring Davao City and Samal Island .

• Not sure where to start? Check out our guide to the Top 15 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines

Given the number and variety of things to do here, filling your itinerary for a week or so when traveling in the Philippines won’t be a problem. 

See our popular Mindanao Tour Packages

Arriving at manila airport: what you need to know      .

Like any metropolitan city, Manila can be confusing for first-time visitors with flights to Manila , starting with arriving at the airport. Manila international airport, officially known as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or Manila Airport , has four terminals, which are not connected via airport rail link. Consider this when booking your flights, as inter-airline transfers may be complicated.

• Dubai to Manila flights
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However, there are now Point-to-Point (P2P) shuttle buses that you can board to transfer airports in the Philippines , or you can book a taxi or Grab car via the Grab App (like Uber) if you have connecting flights. You can also book rent a car in Manila services. These transport options take public roads, so allot sufficient transfer time if you plan to transit between airlines. Here's a rundown of these four airport terminals:

NAIA Terminal 1

Terminal 1 serves all the international flights from and to Manila except for the ones operated by airlines in NAIA Terminal 2 and NAIA Terminal 3.

NAIA Terminal 2

Terminal 2 houses the domestic and international flights of the country's flag carrier, Philippine Airlines, and its affiliate PAL express. Starting July 2023, AirAsia and Royal Air domestic flights have been transferred to Terminal 2. This terminal is also known as the Centennial Terminal to commemorate the centennial declaration of Philippine independence.

NAIA Terminal 3

Terminal 3 caters to international flights operated by Cathay Pacific Air, AirAsia, Emirates Airline, Cebu Pacific Air, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Delta Air Lines, All Nippon Air, and Singapore Airlines, as well as all some domestic flights of Cebu Pacific Air. It has a transit lounge (airport hotel) and a massage place.

NAIA Terminal 4

Terminal 4, the smallest of the four, serves domestic flights from CebGo, AirSwift, and SkyJet.

See our popular Manila Transfers

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• Cebu to Manila flights
• Davao to Manila flights
• Tacloban to Manila flights
• Iloilo to Manila flights

Outside Manila: Clark International Airport

A secondary international airport nearest to Manila is Clark International Airport. It takes two to three hours to travel from Manila to Clark, which is 93 kilometers away. One transport option is through the Premium point-to-point (P2P) Bus Service. This bus service has a station at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City, which is ideal if you come from the southern part of Metro Manila. If you're coming from the northern part of Metro Manila, take the P2P bus from its North EDSA MRT / Trinoma Station in Quezon City.

You can also hire a car rental service from Clark to Manila  for a more comfortable and private transportation. Just make sure you have the requirements to rent a car in the Philippines .

Currency Exchange and ATMs

All airport terminals have money changers open 24/7 in both the arrivals and departure areas. There are ATMs as well that accept foreign-issued cards though fees may apply. Read our guide about money exchange in the Philippines .

Source: https://currencyrate.today/converter-widget

Free SIM Card

Once you arrive in Manila airports, take advantage of the free SIM cards given by the Philippines' major telecommunications companies: Globe and Smart. You can top up your credit in convenience stores like 7-Eleven all over the country.

Transportation to and from the Manila airports

All Manila airports have taxi stands. You can get a coupon taxi (white) that’s dispatched by airport personnel and charged a fixed price or a yellow taxi that’s metered. Both are more expensive than regular white taxis but relatively safer to use.

There are also shuttle buses that will take you to the nearest metro station. However, if it’s your first time in the Philippines, taking this route is not as comfortable as taking either an airport taxi or booking an accredited taxi/cab, hire Manila car rental  services, or carpool through the Grab App .  If you are traveling in a big group and have a lot of luggage, booking a van rental in the Philippines  or a budget car rental in the Philippines may be advisable. 

For a hassle-free arrival or departure, check out our Manila airport transfers . 

The primary way of getting around the Philippines is by buses, planes, and ships/ferries. Boat rides are great for inter-island trips with short distances; for everywhere else, flights are recommended.

Depending on when you visit, you can find a lot of cheap flights in the Philippines . In fact, sometimes it’s cheaper to book a flight than a ferry. The biggest flight carriers are Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air, and AirAsia.   

Within small towns and cities, the primary modes of transport are bus, jeepney, or tricycle (like Thailand’s tuk-tuk or India’s auto-rickshaw, but smaller). In addition, major cities have taxi cabs and the Grab app. Only Manila has the metro system. If you want to go around the country in style, you may book an SUV rental in the Philippines or  luxury car rental in the Philippines .

You can also book self-drive car rentals in the Philippines if you want to explore on your own. Read our article on the best cars to rent for a road trip in the Philippines .

For inter-island transportation, sea transfers such as ferries are the best option. Secure your Philippines ferry ticket booking  in advance for a hassle-free trip. 

See our popular Sea Transfers & Ferries in the Philippines

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It is not hard to find accommodations in the Philippines . In top destinations, you would find various options, from 1- to 5-star hotels, ranging in price from budget to luxury. 

For budget travelers, there are numerous hostels, guesthouses, and homestays all over the country. Note that budget places are less likely to have a hot shower available, and in some places, there would be no Wifi.

It's highly recommended to book at least one night (or more) in advance, especially in popular destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Puerto Galera during peak season (e.g., summer and holidays).

Read our article guides on the best hotels and resorts in top destinations in the Philippines: 

• Best hotels in Manila
• Best serviced apartments in Metro Manila
• Best beach resorts near Manila
• Best hotels near Manila Airport
• Best glamping resorts near Manila
• Best hotels in BGC Taguig Metro Manila
• Best hotels in Makati City
• Best hotels and resorts in Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in El Nido, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in Coron, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in San Vicente, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in Port Barton, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in Antipolo
• Best hotels in Baguio
• Best resorts in Baler
• Best resorts in Batangas
• Best affordable Batangas resorts
• Best pet-friendly resorts in Batangas
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• Best resorts in Bataan
• Best resorts in Bulacan
• Best resorts in Cavite
• Best resorts in Laguna
• Best hotels in Laoag Ilocos Norte
• Best resorts in La Union
• Best hotels in Legazpi City Albay
• Best resorts in Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in Pampanga
• Best resorts in Pangasinan
• Best resorts in Puerto Galera
• Best resorts in Quezon Province
• Best hotels and resorts in Sorsogon
• Best hotels and resorts in Subic
• Best hotels in Tagaytay
• Best Tagaytay hotels with a view of Taal Lake
• Best hotels in Vigan, Ilocos Sur
• Best resorts in Zambales
• Best resorts and hotels in Boracay
• Best beachfront resorts in Boracay
• Best budget-friendly resorts in Boracay
• Best Boracay Station 1 resorts
• Best Boracay Station 2 resorts
• Best Boracay Station 3 resorts
• Best Boracay hotels and resorts for families
• Best Boracay workation resorts
• Best resorts in Bohol
• Best beachfront resorts in Bohol
• Best hotels in Bacolod City
• Best hotels and resorts in Cebu
• Best beachfront resorts in Cebu
• Best luxury hotels and resorts in Cebu
• Best budget-friendly hotels in Cebu City
• Best hotels near Cebu airport
• Best hotels in Iloilo City

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• Best hotels in Davao City
• Best resorts in Siargao
• Best beachfront resorts in Siargao
• Best Siargao hotels and resorts for groups
• Best Siargao budget hotels and resorts
• Best resorts in Samal Island

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• Best luxury resorts and hotels in the Philippines
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With over 7000 islands, you will definitely need to prioritize when deciding on the places to visit in the Philippines. Much depends, of course, on how long you will have in the country and what you are interested in doing. For starters, you can check out our article on the top tours in the Philippines .

Here are some of the most popular destinations in the Philippines that you shouldn't miss out on: 

4-Day Fascinating Culture & Nature Tour Package to Cebu & Bohol with Accommodations & Transfers

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It has, for example, the old Spanish fortress in Intramuros  that provides you with a glimpse of what the city used to be under over three centuries of Spanish rule. Nowhere is the Spanish influence seen more clearly than in the Walled City, from the cobbled streets to the restored houses. Make sure to join Intramuros tours to get the full experience.

• Check   Manila activities  that you can add to your itinerary

Highlights in Intramuros include the old churches of San Agustin, built in 1587, and the Manila Cathedral, originally built in 1571 and governed by the Archdiocese of Mexico. Outside Intramuros, there’s also the historic Quiapo Church, whose annual Feast of the Black Nazarene every January attracts millions of devotees.

See our popular Manila Tours & Activities

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You can also try some of the trips around Binondo , the oldest Chinatown in the world. You can also watch one of the best sunsets in the Philippines along the Manila Bay at the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex.

When booking a hotel in Manila , we recommend booking accommodations either in Manila City or in Makati City . Both of these destinations have plush hotels, high-end shopping malls, and various bars and restaurants that offer a range of local and international cuisines.

See our popular Binondo Tours

Palawan | gateway to the best islands in the philippines.

You’ll see beautiful powdery, white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, towering limestones, hidden lagoons, and even a safari. 

See our popular Palawan Tours and Activities

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Puerto Princesa , the capital of Palawan, is often the first place that travelers go to, as it has frequent and affordable flights to and from Manila and Cebu. It is home to the Underground River , one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines . The city is the jump-off point for Honda Bay island hopping ,  Underground River tour , and several Palawan destinations like El Nido and San Vicente.

• Learn more in our article on the top attractions and activities in Puerto Princesa

Coron is another popular destination in Palawan. There are direct flights and boats from Manila to Coron (via Busuanga Airport, an hour from Coron town proper), making it a possible first destination for the Palawan leg of your Philippine itinerary.

If you’re into water activities, Coron is the getaway you might be looking for. It is best known for wreck diving and snorkeling, island hopping to hidden lagoons surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, and the iconic Kayangan Lake. Check out our Coron tour packages with airfare .

Google Coron, Palawan, and the first photo you'll see is of the view going to the freshwater lake. It's why Coron island-hopping  is popular with both locals and internationals.

See our popular Coron Tours and Activities

Coron is the best place for wreck diving because it has a handful of sunken ships hidden beneath its waters, some of which are big enough to be explored inside, while some are shallow enough to be seen by snorkelers. If you're not a certified diver, dive shops in Coron have Discover Scuba activities too.

• Learn more in our article on the top activities and places to see in Coron

El Nido is another well-known destination in Palawan. Over the years, the town has transformed from one that doesn’t even have an ATM and 24-hour electricity into a popular holiday destination.

There are regular island-hopping trips in El Nido that take you to various islands and beaches such as the Hidden Beach, Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Hidden Lagoon, Paradise Beach, and Natnat Beach, among others.

• Read our guide on the top activities and attractions in El Nido  

See our popular El Nido Tours and Activities

Boracay island | tropical paradise.

Boracay became a popular destination for local and international travelers because of its fine, white sandy beaches (led by the famous White Beach ), its combination of Boracay nightlife scene and family-friendly atmosphere, and its many accommodations across budgets.

Watching sunsets may be cliché to some, but the sunset in Boracay is definitely one of the best you’ll see in the country. The silhouette of sailboats, the shadows of people walking along the shore, and the sky turning from blue to a fiery red and into a faint orange is an image you won’t quickly forget.

• Browse our Boracay tour packages with airfare

See our popular Boracay Vacation Packages

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Most Boracay hotels are lined up in White Beach grouped into Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. However, you can easily visit the other beaches there during your stay. Puka Beach, for example, may not have sand as fine as White Beach, but if you go early enough, you can avoid the crowds and have a relaxing hour or two by the beach.

Bulabog Beach is becoming a popular destination for kitesurfers. The winds here are strong enough for those who want to try something new or improve their skill. There are several shops offering lessons and provide rental gear too. 

You’ll have plenty of options in Boracay when it comes to food, as there are markets, budget restaurants, Western food, buffets, and bars that cater to different kinds of tastes. Read our article on the best restaurants in Boracay  to learn more. There are fun activities like Boracay pub crawls too! Indeed, Boracay is the destination to be if you want a bit of everything in one place.

• Read our guide on the top things to see and do in Boracay

See our popular Boracay Tours and Activities

Cebu | islands, diving, historical sites, and more.

The province of Cebu is another popular place to visit because of the range of natural, historical, and cultural attractions. 

Bantayan Island and Malapascua Island in the north are famous beach destinations because of their pristine beaches and sky-blue waters. Visitors usually combine a trip to these two destinations. Both islands provide a laid-back atmosphere if you want to just spend the whole day relaxing. 

See our popular Cebu Tours and Activities

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Malapascua is best known for its thresher sharks. It's the only place in the world where this species is consistently seen almost every day. 

Bantayan Island, on the other hand, is more for beach bumming and snorkeling. It has a healthy coral garden you can explore and a long coastline of white sandy beaches.

Make sure to go to the south of Cebu as well and include Moalboal in your Philippine itinerary. This is where you can experience the famous sardine run tour . Seeing the hundreds of thousands of sardines swimming beneath you (or above you if you choose to dive) is definitely an awesome experience unique to Cebu.

A must-try during your visit to Cebu is the fun canyoneering experience . It is an adrenaline-pumping activity where you jump into a pool of water from around 25 meters high. You’ll also get to trek and enjoy some moderate hiking activities and take the plunge at the azure waters of Kawasan Falls . 

See our popular Kawasan Falls Tours

Other places of interest in Cebu province include hiking Osmeña Peak, trekking to Tumalog Falls, lounging in Tingko Beach, Lambug Beach, and Basdaku Beach, just to name a few.

• Check our article on the  Top Tourist Spots in Cebu  

Cebu City, the capital of Cebu province, is cosmopolitan and developed. You can join a historical tour in Cebu that will take you to sites like Magellan’s Cross, as well as old churches and museums, among others. There is a variety of restaurants offering local and international food, too.

If you’re a meat-eater, never miss the famous lechon (suckling pig) that Anthony Bourdain called “the best pig ever.” There are countless bars and shopping malls for entertainment as well.

The Queen City of the South has the second busiest airport in the Philippines located in Mactan , flying to 25 domestic and 22 international destinations. From here, the best beaches in Cebu are easily accessible by private transportation and public buses. 

You also have several options for accommodation, whether you want to splurge or stick to a tight budget.

See our popular Cebu Vacation Packages

3-day cebu ultimate budget vacation package with hotel, transfers & add-on tours, bohol | countryside and island tours.

The island of Bohol is another must-include in your Philippine itinerary. There are endless tourist spots in Bohol that you can visit. You can do a countryside day tour of Bohol, but why spend only one day in one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines?

Bohol has many beaches and activities for those who want to see more of the region. Make sure to explore Panglao Island to make your trip more fun and exciting! Start your trip by trying Alona Beach activities such as fly fish, UFO, parasailing, banana boat ride, and many more.

A trip to Bohol is incomplete without joining  Chocolate Hills tours . These green hills that turn brown during the summer months will remind you of Hershey’s Kisses, hence the name. The viewpoint was affected by the major earthquake in 2015, but it has since been restored.

See our popular Bohol Tours and Activities

• See our guide on how to go to Chocolate Hills

Another must-see is the tarsier, a tiny primate (around 3.5 to 6 inches long) with huge eyes that can only be found in Southeast Asia. You can visit tarsier sanctuaries in Bohol, where you can see these tiny and cute creatures (do not hold or touch them, though).

While in Bohol, try the Loboc River Cruise experience . It provides you with a relaxing and scenic way to see the countryside while feasting on Filipino cuisine and being serenaded by local performers.

Bohol also has relics of Spanish colonial times; you’ll see several old churches that provide you with a glimpse of the province’s historical and cultural heritage. While some of these churches were destroyed during the 2015 earthquake, most of them have been restored, including Baclayon Church.

These destinations are only some of the best places to visit in the Philippines. The country has plenty more to offer travelers with various budgets and preferences for their trip. 

See our popular Bohol Vacation Packages

4-day premier bohol beach club resort package with breakfast & airport transfers, what to eat in the philippines  .

Filipino food is one of the most underrated in Asia. Most international visitors know what to expect from Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Thai, and Vietnamese food but are usually totally clueless about the Philippines' local cuisine. 

Filipino cuisine is actually one of the most diverse in the world. Because of its colonial past, it has influences from the west as much as it has oriental roots. Note, though, that the cuisine is meat-heavy. Vegetarian or vegan guests traveling outside major cities may find it hard to look for restaurants that provide vegetarian or vegan options.

If you are a first-time visitor in the Philippines and don’t know what Filipino food to try, here are some of the best food in the Philippines that you should keep on the lookout for in your culinary and food trips .

See our popular Food Tours

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The name adobo was given by the Spanish due to the similarity to adobo or adobar, a cooking practice that also uses vinegar and soy sauce indigenous to Iberia. It is considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines due to its popularity across all regions.

Sisig is a favorite pulutan (food eaten with alcohol) accompanied by a local beer. The dish is made of chopped parts of a pig’s head and liver. Onions, chopped chili peppers, eggs, and calamansi are added. It is normally served in sizzling plates.

This appetizing dish originated from Pampanga, the culinary capital of the Philippines. Hundreds of sisig variations are available today, such as tuna, squid, tuna, milkfish, and mussels. If you are looking for a vegetarian version of Sisig, some restaurants serve mushrooms and tofu sisig. Read more about it on our travel guide to Pampanga .

3. Lechon 

The pig is roasted for hours with occasional basting. It is served with a local sauce in some regions. One of the most famous foods in the Philippines, lechon is a must-try for anyone coming to the country. The best lechon in the Philippines are from Cebu. Read our travel guide to Cebu to learn more about it.

4. Sinigang

Sinigang is a Filipino soup or stew characterized by its sour and savory broth. A classic Filipino dish, sinigang is what most Filipino kids ask their moms for if they are sick. The sour taste is from the use of tamarind to flavor the broth.

This traditional food in the Philippines has evolved so much that several tamarind alternatives are being used these days. It includes guava, mango, kamias, santol, and even watermelon.

5. Caldereta

Caldereta is another classic Filipino dish and stew. This savory dish is cooked originally using goat meat, but beef, chicken, or pork can also be used these days.

Tomato sauce, liver spread, vegetables, bell peppers, and cheese are added to the meat. The name of the dish is derived from the Spanish word caldera or cauldron in English. 

6. Crispy Pata

Crispy pata or pork knuckles is a famous Filipino pork dish among Filipino family dinners.

This dish is made by boiling the entire pork knuckles with seasonings for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender. It is then frozen overnight with another batch of seasonings and then deep-fried until the skin is crispy. 

7. Chicken Inasal

8. Dinuguan

The name dinuguan derives from the word “dugo” or blood; hence the word dinuguan means “to be stewed with blood.” It is made of pig’s blood and offal.

Dinuguan is similar to the Irish black pudding except that it is a stew instead of sausage. Aside from being eaten with rice, Filipinos also pair it with puto (steamed rice cake).

9. Fish Kinilaw

Fish kinilaw is the ceviche of the Philippines. Made of raw fish, this appetizing dish is denatured using vinegar as a primary ingredient. Onions, ginger, chili peppers, black peppers, and calamansi are added for flavoring.

Popular fish used for kinilaw includes yellowfin tuna, mackerels, and marlins. 

10. Halo-Halo

Halo-halo is a Filipino favorite snack or merienda . This cold snack and dessert consists of crushed ice, evaporated milk, and various ingredients such as beans, jellies, tapioca pearls, mixed fruits, leche flan, purple yam, and even ice cream.

Halo-halo is extremely popular, especially during the summer months, to cool off from the heat. You can find a lot of food stands selling halo-halo in the local neighborhoods.

Taho (soy pudding) is a popular street food in the Philippines . This healthy snack is made of soft tofu, caramelized brown sugar, and tapioca pearls. It is comfort food that you can buy from street peddlers, usually in the morning. In local neighborhoods, local peddlers walk or bike around houses. When you hear a deep voice shouting "taho," just shout back "taho" to call the peddler's attention to buy a cup. 

For non-Filipinos, you might have heard of balut from your adventurous friends who keep telling you that you have never been to the Philippines if you haven’t tried this Filipino street food.

Balut is a boiled fertilized egg embryo that is eaten from a shell. Don’t let it scare you, though; balut tastes like an ordinary egg with a tasty soup. It's usually sold in the streets at night, with some vendors going around local neighborhoods at night shouting "balot."

Suggested 2-Week Itinerary in the Philippines        

Creating an itinerary for a trip to the Philippines can be difficult, especially for a first-time visitor. This 2-week itinerary in the Philippines will give you an idea of how to maximize your time in the country.

See our popular 2 Weeks Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

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Day 1: Manila

If you only have 2 weeks, a day tour in the capital city Manila is enough. If you're spending more time here, check out our Ultimate Travel Guide to Manila .

Things to do in Manila for 1 day:

Explore Intramuros . It used to be the center of government during Spanish times.

Visit Rizal Park. It’s a favorite leisure spot for the locals.

Watch the Manila Bay sunset along Roxas Boulevard.  

Go on a Binondo food tour and enjoy authentic Chinese food at the oldest Chinatown. 

Read our article on Manila layover activities for more ideas. 

Ride a night bus going to Baguio and travel to Banaue.

Day 2-3: Banaue 

The mountain province of Banaue is famous for its iconic rice terraces. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Located at around 1500 meters above sea level, it uses an ancient irrigation system where water comes from the rainforest above it. 

Things to do in Banaue for 2 days:

Walk around the rice terraces.

Check out the local village and watch an Ifugao cultural show.

Trek to Batad and check out Tappiya Waterfalls. Depending on when you go, you can swim there, too.

If you have more time to spare, go to Buscalan in Kalinga and get a traditional tattoo from Apo Whang-Od . 

Take a night bus going back to Manila so you can arrive early the following day. 

Day 4: Layover in Manila + Fly to El Nido

If you have time to explore Manila before your flight, head to the bustling city of Makati , where you can explore shopping malls or parks, and treat yourself to a good meal or a bit of shopping. You can go to Poblacion Makati and have some drinks , get a relaxing massage , or join a game night in BGC .

Make sure to withdraw enough cash for El Nido, Palawan. The ATMs in El Nido don't always have enough cash. Many places don’t accept credit cards yet, so you might want to plan just in case.

Day 5-7: El Nido, Palawan

Things to do in El Nido for 3 days:

Join an El Nido island hopping trip  which runs for a full day. Each tour has a different itinerary, so it’s up to you to select which sites you would like to visit. You can allot 1 tour a day.

Do the Taraw Cliff via ferrata canopy walk and see the stunning view of the town and the islands. 

Drink beers or cocktails and watch the sunset of El Nido in Las Cabanas.

Day 8-9: Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Things to do in Puerto Princesa for 2 days:

Explore the  tourist spots in Puerto Princesa  City or go island hopping in Honda Bay . 

Book a tour of the underground river for Day 9 (you should book this in advance). The whole tour will take 5-6 hours.

See our popular Puerto Princesa Tours and Activities

Day 10-12: Bohol

You can’t fly directly to Bohol from Puerto Princesa, but you can fly to Cebu and then take a ferry to Tagbilaran, Bohol . The flight takes about an hour while the fast ferry takes about 2 hours.

Several fast ferries travel between Cebu and Bohol, so you shouldn’t have any problem finding transport to Bohol.

No advance booking is necessary. Just go to the ferry terminal in Pier 4 North Reclamation Area.

Things to do in Bohol for 2 days:

Do the  Bohol countryside tour  where you can visit most top Bohol attractions like the Chocolate Hills, Loboc River, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Baclayon Church, and Blood Compact Shrine. 

Join Bohol island hopping tours where you can have the chance to see dolphins and snorkel at the incredible Bohol diving sites like Balicasag Island . 

Explore Alona Beach in Panglao Island. There are several bars and restaurants there if you need a break from lounging in the beach.

For more adventurous activities, a trip to Danao Adventure Park is where you can experience the Plunge (canyon drop) as well as other exhilarating activities.

Bohol Chocolate Hills Countryside Private Tour with Transfers & Add-on Loboc River Cruise Lunch

Bohol countryside tour chocolate hills to loboc river cruise lunch with hotel transfers, bohol island hopping private tour to balicasag & virgin islands with dolphin watching & transfers.

Day 12-14: Cebu

Things to do in Cebu for 2 days:

When you arrive, go around Cebu City or book Cebu tour s and check out its top attractions, including the Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño.

Alternatively, you can go directly to Moalboal, around 2 hours from the city, where you can go island hopping and swim with the sardines if you book Moalboal tours .

From Moalboal, head to Alegria and Badian for the canyoneering and the Kawasan Falls adventure .

There are several flights from Cebu to Manila , so going back to Manila on Day 14 won’t be a problem. Just make sure to check your flights and allot extra time for delays so you won’t miss your flight out of the country! An easier way to a multi-destination itinerary in the Philippines is by booking all-inclusive Philippine tour packages . 

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to the Philippines 

Now that you know which destinations you should add to your trip to the Philippines take note of these helpful tips: 

Is it safe to visit the Philippines?

Generally, yes. But it's always best to be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure at all times and be wary of strangers. If you're planning to do outdoor activities, check out our guide on travel insurance in the Philippines .

What are the Philippine citizens called?

We are called Filipinos (not Philippinos).

What languages are spoken in the Philippines?

The Philippines has two official languages: English and Filipino. This makes it easier for travelers to get around since English is widely understood and spoken.

While Spanish was the country's official language in the 19th and early 20th centuries, only a very small percentage of the population speak or understand it now.

A lot of words, however, derive their origin from Spanish. All over the Philippines, around 180 languages (and dialects) are spoken, 12 of which are used by at least one million people.

Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines? 

Passports holders from any country except the following either don't need a visa or can pay for a visa on arrival:

Afghanistan

Bosnia and Herzegovina

North Korea

Sierra Leone

South Sudan

Taiwan (have to apply for an ETA online)

Timor-Leste

If unsure, double-check with your embassy.

Is Wifi widely available all over the country? 

Most hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in major cities would have Wifi connectivity, but the connection's quality varies widely, depending on location. You can use data but note that the signal can be weak to nonexistent in many islands. 

Can I use my credit card? 

Cash is still king in the Philippines. You can use credit cards in shopping malls and restaurants in major cities, but once you go out of the major cities, and especially in the islands, credit cards are not usually accepted.

Before leaving Manila or other major cities, make sure to acquire enough cash. A lot of destinations do have ATMs and money changers, but check before you leave.

Discover what the Philippines has to offer. With so many destinations to travel to, start planning your trip now!  Read our travel guides  to learn more and explore our collection of  Philippine tours and activities  for your trip. 

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Where to Go in The Philippines: The Perfect Itinerary

04/10/2023 by The Wanderlovers 65 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!

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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.

Philippines Travel Guide

The world's second-largest archipelago with over 7000 islands. Its wildlife and beaches make it an absolute paradise.

Best time to visit Philippines

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The Philippines, a tropical haven, has two main seasons: the dry season from December to April and the wet season from May to November. However, some islands can follow the opposite season! As a whole, avoid the months of July to October, when typhoons may hit the country - nature's way of keeping things interesting!

El Nido Island Hopping: A Full Guide to Tours A-D

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Why is the Philippines worth visiting?

With 7631 islands, the Philippines has no shortage of outstanding places to visit, including enchanting rice terraces, thrilling hiking trails, renowned surfing spots, exceptional diving opportunities, and most notably, mesmerizing tropical beaches filled with palm trees, pristine white sand, and vibrant blue waters.

Is the Philippines cheap to visit?

Few island getaways can rival the affordability and allure of the Philippines! While luxurious experiences are available, if you’re on a budget, expect to spend between $180 and $350 USD. You can keep costs down by taking overnight ferries and buses instead of planes, eating delicious street food, and sleeping in hostels.

Can I drink tap water in the Philippines?

Drinking tap water in Manila is considered safe, although locals tend to avoid it out of preference. It’s safer to opt for filtered water throughout the rest of the Philippines. To prevent using plastic and stay refreshed on your vacation in the Philippines, bring a reusable water bottle with an in-built filter.

Do I need a visa for traveling in the Philippines?

Amazing news! Most nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for stays up to 30 days, so long as you have proof of an onward ticket and at least 6 months left on your passport. This invites you to discover the beautiful archipelago hassle-free. Check with your embassy for the latest requirements.

What language do they speak in the Philippines?

Filipino and English are the main two languages spoken in the Philippines. Filipino is a blend of standardized Tagalog and words from various Philippine languages used to unify the communities across the archipelago. Embrace the hospitality in the greeting “Mabuhay!” which means “live” from this incredibly friendly nation.

Do I need travel insurance for the Philippines?

Absolutely! Travel insurance ensures your trip is worry-free. From unexpected medical expenses to trip disruptions, having this safety net means you can focus on island hopping around this breathtaking country.

Is the Philippines safe?

Despite media portrayals, the Philippines is generally a safe travel destination. While you should avoid Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago in the southern part of the country due to possible terrorism, most of the country is welcoming and secure. Exercise caution and familiarize yourself with travel safety before your adventure begins. 

What power plug type does the Philippines have?

The Philippines uses type A, B, and C plugs. Type A and B are used in the USA, and type C is the standard plug in Europe. With three different options, it’s worth bringing an international plug adapter to charge your devices anywhere in the country.

Why do people love the Philippines?

People adore the Philippines for its enchanting beauty, which spans the archipelago’s diverse landscapes of pristine beaches, limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, vibrant wildlife, and more. The warmth of the Filipino people, ranked among the friendliest in Asia, also creates an unforgettable and welcoming experience for travelers.

Travel to the Philippines 

The Philippines, a country that will never fail to amaze you, has over 7,000 islands, each offering its own unique slice of paradise. Picture yourself on vacation in the Philippines , exploring remote islands, toes in the sand, with palm trees and crystal-clear waters all around. Or imagine hiking through lush landscapes, riding gnarly waves, plunging into bright blue waterfalls and hidden lagoons; the Philippines is a dream! 

How to plan your trip to the Philippines

Travel in the Philippines requires careful planning because of the multitude of islands. Our Philippine travel guides will help you to build the ultimate travel route! Whether you’re looking for the best things to do in Siargao , a guide to the island hopping tours in El Nido , or planning to swim with whale sharks , our guides give you everything you need to know to organize the best holiday in the Philippines. 

We recommend spending at least three weeks in the Philippines . While you could easily spend months exploring this magnificent country, our three-week route will take you to some of the best places in the Philippines.  

Best time to visit the Philippines

Timing is everything for a dream getaway to the Philippines! While this tropical haven has two distinct seasons, the weather in the Philippines can vary significantly between islands. 

Dry Season (December to April): Considered the best time to visit the Philippines , this period is fantastic for beach outings, island hopping, and other outdoor activities, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 31 degrees Celsius. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest season, particularly from March to May, when tourist influx and prices are at their peak. 

Wet Season (May to November) : The wet season starts around May/June and finishes around October/November, although rain showers typically last only a short time, so you can still find pockets of sunshine. July to October see the typhoon season, bringing heavy rainfall and winds, which are worth avoiding as they can disrupt your travels. 

Regional Variations: Certain regions can experience different weather patterns, like El Nido and Siargao , which have two completely different seasons at the same time of the year. It’s worth checking island-specific forecasts before planning your Philippines holiday.  

Coastlines and beaches in the Philippines

Boasting thousands of islands and over 35,000km of coastline, the Philippines is brimming with world-class pristine white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Whether exploring popular hotspots or seeking hidden gems, dive into the thrill of island life and immerse yourself in the enchantment of the Philippines’ captivating shores.

In the west, Palawan’s El Nido is like stepping into a postcard. Limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, perfect sandbanks, and secluded beaches make it a haven for those craving unspoiled natural beauty. Fancy island hopping through Bacuit Bay, a protected area home to 45 breathtaking islands? El Nido has you covered. In the same region as El Nido, Coron boasts stunning limestone formations embraced by pristine white beaches. Embark on a captivating journey island hopping to incredible destinations like Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon, Banol Beach, and Kayangan Lake.

For a taste of vibrant marine life, head to Moalboal in Cebu , teaming with schools of sardines and sea turtles, creating a mesmerizing underwater spectacle. The sardine run here is a must-see for diving enthusiasts during the dry season. Beneath Cebu is the hidden treasure of Siquijor . Unwind on Paliton Beach, with white sands, clear waters, and a serene ambiance, or for something more exhilarating, venture to Salagdoong Beach Resort and take on the 10-meter cliff jump. This charming island promises unforgettable coastal drives, friendly locals, and natural wonders.

Journeying south is the untouched beauty of Siargao , known as the ‘most beautiful island in Asia’. Picture an unspoiled island surrounded by crystal-clear waters, palm trees, and world-renowned surf. With extraordinary spots like Magpupungko Rock Pools, Cloud 9 surf break, and Alegria Beach, this island is pure paradise! 

Food, culture and religion in the Philippines

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient Seas,’ the Philippines isn’t just a tropical paradise; it’s a vibrant mix of food, culture, and religion that creates an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Food: Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure! Filipino cuisine is a fusion of indigenous flavors, Spanish influences, and hints of Chinese and American culinary traditions. Iconic dishes like adobo and cassava cake each tell a story of heritage and local ingredients. The Philippines also boasts a lively street food scene; savoring barbeque skewers, sweet halo-halo, and banana Q from vibrant markets is a must for any food enthusiast.

Culture: The culture in the Philippines celebrates diversity and warmth. Traditional dance, colorful festivals such as the Ati-Atihan Festival, and vibrant traditional dress like the Barong Tagalog and Baro’t Saya reflect the nation’s dynamic spirit. Respect, family, and hospitality are deeply ingrained in Filipino culture , and you’ll often witness gestures of admiration, such as the traditional “mano,” where younger individuals show respect to their elders by taking the elder’s hand and placing it on their forehead.

Religion: Most of the Philippines’s population is Christian, making it the only predominantly Christian country in Asia. The influence of Spanish colonization is evident in the beautifully preserved churches and religious festivals. Religious devotion is a vibrant part of Filipino culture, from the grandeur of the Basilica del Santo Niño in Cebu to the celebration of the Penafrancia Festival in Naga.

Why you should travel to the Philippines

The Philippines is an absolute paradise! Boasting 7,641 islands, the Philippines stands as the undisputed king of island hopping, offering an array of extraordinary settings that spoil travelers for choice. From the whitest beaches and clearest waters to mesmerizing wildlife and waterfalls, there are endless incredible things to do in the Philippines !

The country’s natural beauty is unparalleled. Its palm-fringed beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush landscapes showcase an impressive array of wildlife. There are opportunities to spot monkeys, whale sharks , sardine runs, tarsiers, and so many other fascinating creatures. 

If you’re a backpacking enthusiast, the Philippines is a dream destination. The backpacking scene here is vibrant, offering affordable accommodations, delicious street food, and the perfect place to meet other travelers. From the bustling streets of Manila to the tranquil beaches of Bohol, backpacking allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and make new friends along the way.

For adrenaline junkies, the Philippines is a playground of adventure. Imagine trekking through the breathtaking landscapes of Chocolate Hills in Bohol, swimming through a swarm of stingless jellyfish in Tojoman Lagoon, canyoneering down to Kawasan Falls in Cebu, or surfing the legendary Cloud 9 waves in Siargao; there are so many crazy adventures to be had. 

Beyond its picturesque landscapes and activities, the warm and welcoming nature of the Filipino people, consistently ranked among the friendliest in Asia, creates an inviting atmosphere for travelers. So, pack your bags and get ready to uncover the stunning surroundings and the warmth of Filipino smiles, ensuring your vacation in the Philippines is filled with natural wonders and genuine connections.

Safety and travel advice the Philippines

Contrary to common misconceptions, the Philippines is generally safe for tourists, and the Filipino people are some of the friendliest and most welcoming in Southeast Asia. The following information will help travelers get the most out of their adventure through the Philippines.

Crime and Safety in the Philippines : Like any destination, the Philippines can experience instances of petty theft. Secure your valuables, avoid isolated areas at night, and stick to well-lit, populated spots. Maintain vigilance and practice common-sense safety measures to ensure a trouble-free experience.

Certain areas, such as Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, should be avoided due to potential terrorism concerns. Check your government’s travel advice before your vacation in the Philippines to ensure you’re traveling to safe areas of the country. 

Learn more about travel safety .

Natural Disasters: The Philippines is prone to earthquakes, volcano eruptions, typhoons, and heavy flooding, especially during the wet season. Register with your embassy for emergency updates and familiarize yourself with evacuation procedures in case of unforeseen events.

Driving: Road conditions can be poor, and driving can be chaotic, so always be cautious on the roads. While renting motorbikes is common, we’d recommend only doing so on the islands and not in cities. Prioritize safety by always wearing a helmet and protective clothing and ensuring you have excellent travel insurance. Stay extra vigilant during the rainy season, as road conditions can be slippery.

Drugs: The Philippines has strict laws regarding drugs, and penalties for possession can be severe. Possession of any amount of an illicit drug is a mandatory jail sentence or can even warrant a more severe punishment.  

Travel insurance: Prioritize your safety by buying comprehensive travel insurance before your holiday in the Philippines . Unforeseen incidents, such as medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or lost baggage, can happen, so find the best travel insurance before your trip. 

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Graced by dazzling beaches, year-round sun and numerous opportunities for diving, island-hopping and surfing, the Philippines has long attracted a steady stream of foreign visitors. That said, if you're looking to get off the beaten track, there are plenty of b eautiful alternatives to the most famous Philippines beaches .

Where to go in the Philippines

Outdoor activities in the philippines, catholic nation, videoke crazy, tailor-made travel itineraries for philippines, created by local experts.

4 days  / from 1250 USD

Tropical Escape to Palawan

Only have a few days to discover the island paradise of El Nido? Fly into Manila and take a domestic flight the next day to enjoy the white sandy beaches. Take a full day boat tour to discover the Bacuit Bay before enjoying a last dinner on the island and heading out to Manila on Day 4.

13 days  / from 2408 USD

Island Paradise Palawan

Explore the island paradise of Palawan: From the Underground River in Sabang to feeling like Robinson Crusoe on Flower Island to the popular dive and beach hang-out El Nido, this itinerary shows you the variety Palawan has to offer.

9 days  / from 2750 USD

Paradise Islands: Boracay & Palawan

Discover two paradise islands in the Philippines: world-famous Boracay and El Nido on Palawan. Enjoy luxurious hotels, white sandy beaches, a fascinating underwater world and the hospitality of the local population.

In addition, there’s far more to these islands than sand and snorkelling. Beyond the coastline are places to visit of a different nature; mystical tribal villages, ancient rice terraces, jungle-smothered peaks and crumbling Spanish churches. Look closer and you’ll see the influence of the island’s rich stew of cultures – Islamic, Malay, Spanish and American – in an exuberant array of festivals, tantalizing food and elegant colonial towns that has more in common with Latin America than the rest of Asia.

Indeed, cut off from the main Southeast Asian overland route by the South China Sea, the Philippines is often misunderstood by travellers and its Asian neighbours, casually dismissed as a supplier of maids, tribute bands, mail-order brides and corrupt politicians, epitomized by the gaudy excesses of Imelda Marcos. Don’t be put off; while poverty and corruption remain serious problems, the Philippines is far more complex – and culturally rich – than the stereotypes suggest.

The Filipino people, who speak more than 150 languages and dialects, are variously descended from early Malay settlers, Muslim Sufis from the Middle East, Spanish conquistadors and friars, and later Chinese traders. It’s an old cliché, but largely true: Filipinos take pride in making visitors welcome, even in the most rustic barrio home.

Equally important is the culture of entertaining, evident in the hundreds of colourful fiestas that are held throughout the country, many tied to the Roman Catholic calendar. Never far behind partying is eating and Filipino food is heavily influenced by Spanish and native traditions – expect plenty of fresh fish, roasted meats (pork and chicken) and a plethora of addictive desserts, many utilizing the vast array of tropical fruits on offer. As delicious as this all sounds, the Philippines is also home to some more unusual food ...

Even the politics in Asia’s first democracy is rich in showmanship and pizzazz. From Ferdinand Marcos to the “housewife President” Cory Aquino to current paparazzi favourite Ninoy Aquino, the country’s leaders have never been short on charisma. But despite impressive economic gains in the last twenty years, all have conspicuously failed to rid the country of its grinding poverty, visible everywhere you go in shanty towns and rickety barrios. Ordinary people somehow remain stoical in the face of these problems, infectiously optimistic and upbeat. This determination to enjoy life is a national characteristic, encapsulated in the common Tagalog phrase bahala na – “what will be will be”.

Most flights to the Philippines arrive in Manila, the crazy, chaotic capital which, despite first impressions, is worth at least a day or two of your time. The city’s major historical attraction is the old Spanish walled city of Intramuros, while the best museums in the country can be found in nearby Rizal Park and skyscraper-smothered Makati. There are also some worthwhile day-trips from the city; top of the list is the island of Corregidor in Manila Bay, which was fought over bitterly during World War II and, with its now-silent guns and ruins, is a poignant place to soak up the history of the conflict.

Within easy striking distance of Manila – about two hours south by road – the province of Batangas features Tagaytay with its mesmerizing views over Lake Taal, the picture-perfect crater lake with Taal Volcano in the middle. Around the small coastal town of Anilao you’ll find the best scuba diving near Manila, while the adjacent agricultural province of Laguna is known for its therapeutic hot springs and luscious buko (coconut) pies.

To the north of Manila the theme parks, beaches and wreck dives of Subic Bay make a tempting break before the long bus ride to the extraordinary attractions and spell-binding mountain scenery of northern Luzon. From the mountain city of Baguio, it’s a rough but memorable trip north along winding roads to tribal communities such as Sagada, known for its hanging coffins, and Banaue, where you can trek through awe-inspiring rice-terrace countryside. Off Luzon’s northern tip are the alluring islands of Batanes, one of the country’s greatest secrets, while along Luzon’s west coast you can surf around San Fernando or explore the ravishing colonial town of Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Head south from Manila through the Bicol region and you’ll reach perhaps the best-known of Philippine volcanoes, Mayon, an almost perfect cone that towers over the city of Legaspi and is a strenuous four- or five-day climb. Around Donsol you can swim with whale sharks, and in Bulusan Volcano National Park trek through lush rainforest to waterfalls, hot springs and volcanic craters. Even further off the tourist trail, Catanduanes offers excellent surfing while Marinduque is a pastoral island backwater that only gets touristy for the annual Moriones festival, held at Easter.

For most visitors, the myriad islands and islets of the Visayas, right at the heart of the archipelago, are top of the agenda. The captivating little island of Boracay, with its pristine beach, is on almost everyone’s itinerary. If Boracay’s a little too touristy for you, try Panglao Island off Bohol, the tantalizing beaches and waters of Malapascua off the northern top of Cebu Island or tiny Apo Island near Negros, a marine reserve where the only accommodation is in rustic cottages. For trekking and climbing make for Mount Kanlaon National Park on Negros, one of the country’s finest wilderness areas. The largest city in the Visayas, Cebu City, is the arrival point for a limited number of international flights – as well as a major hub for domestic flights – making it a good alternative base to Manila. It’s friendly, affordable and has a buzzing nightlife scene, with great restaurants and live music.

If you’re looking for some serious diving (see also Diving in the Philippines), head for Puerto Galera on the northern coast of Mindoro Island. It also boasts some excellent beaches, and trekking through the jungled interior to tribal communities. There’s more world-class diving off the west coast of Mindoro at Apo Reef, although you’ll have to join a liveaboard boat to get here.

To the west of the archipelago, out in the northern Sulu Sea, is the bewitching island of Palawan, most of it still wild and unspoiled. Many visitors come for the superb scuba diving, especially on the sunken World War II wrecks around Coron Town in the Calamian Islands to the north of Palawan proper. Palawan itself is home to the seaside town of El Nido and the Bacuit archipelago, hundreds of gem-like limestone islands with sugar-white beaches and lagoons. From Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s likeable capital, strike out for the laidback beach town of Port Barton or the Underground River, a entrancing cavern system only accessible by boat.

In the far south, the large island of Mindanao has long been the Muslim heartland of the Philippines, with enticing destinations ranging from the surf beaches and secret lagoons of Siargao Island, to the pristine waters of the Enchanted River and tribal homelands of the T’boli people around Lake Sebu in the south. Off the island’s northern coast, one of the area’s major attractions is the wonderfully friendly and scenic island of Camiguin. Mindanao’s biggest city is durian-capital Davao, from where you can head inland to Mount Apo, the tallest mountain in the archipelago and a tough ascent even for experienced climbers. Note that much of western Mindanao, including the Sulu archipelago, is dangerous to visit because of continuing Muslim separatist unrest.

Discover more places in Philippines

• Palawan, Philippines
• Southern Luzon, Philippines
• The Visayas, Philippines
• Philippines history and timeline

There are some superb wilderness areas in the Philippines and dozens of volcanoes and mountains to be climbed, from the tallest in the country, Mount Apo (2954m), to more manageable peaks close to Manila in Batangas and Rizal provinces, some of which can be tackled in a day-trip. The country also offers opportunities for caving, whitewater rafting, surfing and sailing. When it comes to sport, basketball and boxing are among the biggest passions in the Philippines.

But for a sizeable proportion of the tourists who visit the Philippines every year, the main attraction is the scuba diving. The abundance of exceptional dive sites and the high standard of diving instruction available have made the archipelago one of the world’s foremost diving destinations.

Scuba diving

Diving is one of the most popular activities in the Philippines and one of the best dive sites in the world. It’s possible year-round here, with surface water temperatures in the 25–28°C range, the warmest conditions being from February to June. On deeper dives temperatures can drop to 22°C due to the upwelling of deeper, cooler water, so a wet suit is essential. During the typhoon season from June to November, be prepared for your plans to be disrupted if a major storm hits and dive boats are unable to venture out. Visibility depends on water temperature, the strength of the current and wind direction, but generally lies in 10–30m range, as good as anywhere in the world. Popular locations include the coast around Palawan, the wrecks around Coron Town, Puerto Galera, Padre Burgos, Anilao and the more remote but scintillating reefs at Tubbataha and Apo.

Most dives cost around P1800 to P2000, including rental of the boat and equipment such as mask, booties, wet suit, fins, weight belt and air tanks. For night dives and more demanding technical dives, expect to pay around P500 extra. If you’ve booked a package, two dives a day will normally be included in the cost.

All PADI-accredited resorts offer a range of courses run by qualified professional instructors. If you haven’t been diving before and aren’t sure if you’ll take to it, try a gentle twenty-minute “discovery dive”, guided by an instructor for around P1500, or the longer PADI Discover Scuba Diving course for around P3000. The main course for beginners is the PADI Open Water Diver Course (from P18,000) which will allow you to dive at depths up to 18m. You might want to consider doing the pool sessions and written tests before you travel, then doing the checkout dives at a PADI resort in the Philippines. It saves time and means you don’t have to slave over homework in the tropical heat. If you choose this option, make sure you bring your PADI referral documents with you.

Once you’ve passed the course and been given your certification card, you are free to dive not just anywhere in the Philippines, but anywhere in the world. You might also want to take another step up the diving ladder by enrolling in a more advanced course. There are many to choose from, including Advanced Open Water Diver (from P14,000), Emergency First Response (from P6000), which is also suitable for non-divers and Rescue Diver (from P18,000).

Liveaboards

There are two great advantages to diving from a liveaboard (a boat that acts as a mobile hotel) – you can get to places that are inaccessible by bangka and once you’re there you can linger for a night or two. Liveaboards allow you to explore terrific destinations such as Apo Reef off the coast of Mindoro and Tubbataha in the Sulu Sea, arguably the best dive spot in the country. Packages include all meals and dives, but vary significantly according to destination; Tubbataha costs at least US$1200–1600 per week, while trips around Coron start at around US$130 per day. Most of the boats used have air-conditioned en-suite cabins for two. Packages often include unlimited diving and are always full board.

Diving dos and don’ts

Divers can cause damage to reefs, sometimes inadvertently. Be aware of your fins because they can break off coral heads that take years to re-grow. Don’t grab coral to steady yourself and always maintain good buoyancy control – colliding with a reef can be destructive. Don’t kick up sediment, which can choke and kill corals. For more information about reef conservation efforts in the Philippines, check out wwww.oceanheritage.com.ph, the website of the Ocean Heritage Foundation, a local environmentalist group. Below is a list of additional dos and don’ts:

• Collecting aquatic life - Resist the temptation to take home corals or shells, and never take souvenirs from wreck dives or remove anything dead or alive – except rubbish – from the ocean.
• Riding aquatic life - Hard to credit, but some divers still think it’s a great lark to hang onto the back of a turtle or manta ray. Simply put, there are no circumstances in which this is right.
• Spear-fishing - This has been outlawed in the Philippines, and environmental groups are increasingly reporting spear-fishers to the authorities for prosecution.
• Touching and handling aquatic life - For many organisms this is a terrifying and injurious experience. Handling marine life is best left to people who have experience with the creatures concerned.

Trekking and climbing

The Philippines offer plenty of opportunities to explore pristine wilderness areas. Luzon, for example, has the Sierra Madre and the Balbalasang-Balbalan National Park in Kalinga, both rarely visited by tourists and offering exhilarating trekking through dense rainforest and across dizzying peaks. In Bicol there are some terrific volcano climbs (Mount Mayon and Mount Isarog, for instance), while Mindoro, Palawan and the Visayas between them have dozens of national parks, heritage areas, wildlife sanctuaries and volcanoes. Mount Kanlaon, an active volcano in Negros, is one of the country’s more risky climbs, while the nearby Northern Negros Forest Reserve is a raw, mesmerizing landscape of peaks, waterfalls and fumaroles, typical of wilderness areas throughout the archipelago.

The country actually has more than sixty national parks and protected areas, but because funds for their management are scarce, you won’t find the kind of infrastructure that exists in national parks in the West. While the most popular climbs – Mount Apo in Mindanao and Mount Pulag in Mountain province, for example – have trails that are relatively easy to find and follow, it’s important to realize that trails are generally poorly maintained and hardly marked, if they’re marked at all. There are seldom more than a few badly paid wardens or rangers responsible for huge tracts of land. Where accommodation exists, it will be extremely basic. Some national parks have administrative buildings where you might be able to get a bed in a dorm for the night, or where you can roll out a mattress or sleeping bag on the floor. They may also have basic cooking facilities, but the closest you’ll get to a shower is filling a bucket and washing outside. Deep within park territory, the best you can hope for is a wooden shack to shelter in for the night.

This lack of facilities means you’ll need to hire a reliable guide. Often, the place to make contact with guides is the municipal hall in the barangay or town closest to the trailhead. Fees range from P800–1500 per day depending where you are, plus food and water, which you’ll have to bring with you as it’s unlikely you’ll come across anywhere to buy anything once you’re on the trail.

There are some outdoor shops in big cities – mainly Manila – where you can buy a basic frame-tent for P3000 and a sleeping bag for P1500. Other essentials such as cooking equipment, lanterns and backpacks are also available, and you may be able to rent some items, though the range of gear on offer is limited even in the best shops.

It’s hardly surprising that caving – spelunking – is a growth industry, as there are huge caves to explore throughout the country. The largest cave systems are in northern Luzon – in Sagada and in Cagayan province near Tuguegarao, where the Peñablanca Protected Area has three hundred caves, many deep, dangerous and not yet fully explored. The other exciting caving area is the Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park in Samar.

Whitewater rafting

Whitewater rafting is becoming more popular in the Philippines, notably along the Cagayan River and Chico River in northern Luzon and Cagayan de Oro River in Mindanao. Zip lines have mushroomed all over the islands, but some are much tamer than others – some of the best are near Cagayan de Oro and Davao. You can also take a thrilling ride in a microlight near Cagayan de Oro.

Surfing is also becoming popular, with good waves in eastern Bicol, Catanduanes, eastern Mindanao (especially Siargao Island and Tandag), and around San Fernando in La Union. There are also any number of hard-to-reach areas in the archipelago that are visited only by a handful of die-hard surfers, such as Baler in northern Luzon, or around Borongan in eastern Samar.

The Filipinos embraced basketball as they did everything else American, from pizza to popcorn. Every barrio and town has a basketball court, even if all it consists of are a couple of makeshift baskets nailed to wooden poles in the church plaza. The major league – the equivalent of the NBA – is the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA; wwww.pba.com.ph), founded in 1975. Ten teams compete for honours, all of them sponsored by a major corporation and taking their sponsors’ name. You might find yourself watching Meralco Bolts play Powerade Tigers, or San Miguel Beermen take on Talk ’N Text Tropang Texters. PBA games are all played in Manila for details.

The San Miguel Beermen is the most successful team, while the Barangay Ginebra Kings is the most popular. The players are household names to most Filipinos; James Yap (with the Derby Ace Llamados), Jayjay Helterbrand (Barangay Ginebra Kings), Kelly Williams (Talk ’N Text), Willie Miller (Barangay Ginebra Kings) and Dondon Hontiveros (San Miguel Beermen) command huge attention.

Boxing has been big business in the Philippines since the Americans introduced the sport in the early twentieth century. In recent years, one name stands out in particular: Manny “the Pacman” Pacquiao, the poor boy from Mindanao who became world champion. Though you are unlikely to see the great man himself, fights are held almost every week, with major venues in Caloocan (Manila), Cebu City, Mandaluyong (Manila), Tagaytay City, Victoria (Negros) and Taytay in the Luzon province of Rizal. Tickets are cheap and often sell out; whenever there’s a bout of any significance Filipinos gather around every available television set. You can check schedules for fights at wwww.philboxing.com.

In addition to Manny Pacquiao, at the time of writing the Philippines could boast another four world champions: Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire, Gerry Peñalosa, Donnie “Ahas” Nietes and Brian “Hawaiian Punch” Viloria.

Every town and city in the country has some sort of billiards hall, even if it’s just a few old tables on the pavement, where games are played by kerosene lamps, between locals, for the price of a few San Miguels. The sport has always been popular – it’s cheap and reasonably accessible – but has boomed over the past decade because of the success of Efren Reyes and Francisco Bustamante. Reyes, sometimes called “The Magician”, is one of the pool world’s great characters; a diminutive fellow with a toothy grin, he picked up the nickname “Bata” (“The Kid”) while helping out in his uncle’s pool halls in Manila as a child. He was born in Pampanga province, to the north of Manila, and can still occasionally be found on a Friday or Saturday night shooting pool in his hometown bars around Clark, good-naturedly scalping unsuspecting tourists’ drinks. In 2006, Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante represented their country as Team Philippines and won the inaugural World Cup of Pool by defeating Team USA – a victory of major significance for a country with few global sporting heroes. They repeated the feat in 2009.

Cockfighting

Cockfighting is the Filipino passion few Westerners get to see or understand, for obvious reasons. It’s a brutal blood sport where fighting cocks literally peck and jab each other to death as onlookers make bets on the outcome. The fight begins when the two roosters are presented to each other in the pit. Both have a razor-sharp curved blade three inches long strapped to their leg. The fight is over in a burst of feathers in no more than a few minutes, when one rooster is too bloodied and wounded, or simply too dead, to peck back at its opponent when provoked. To make the evening last, most major cockfights feature seven contests. Anyone who likes animals should definitely stay well away.

If you do attend a cockfight (sabong in Tagalog), you’ll be experiencing Filipino culture at its rawest – at the very least it might make you think again about how much “American influence” dominates the culture. It’s best to start at one of the major cockpits in Manila, or ask your hotel for the nearest place to see one. Entrance fees are minimal, but you’ll rarely see women attending – the cockpit is the exclusive preserve of men, who see it as an egalitarian refuge from the world’s woes, a place where class differences are temporarily put to one side and everyone wears flip-flops and vests. In Manila foreign females should be OK at the main venues, but in the provinces you’ll probably feel more comfortable with a male companion.

Cockfighting and the Filipino

Cockfighting has a long history in the Philippines. National hero José Rizal, martyred by the Spanish in 1896, once pointed out that the average Filipino loves his rooster more than he does his children.

Contrary to received wisdom, cockfighting was not introduced to the country by the Spanish. When conquistadors landed in Palawan shortly after the death of Magellan, they discovered native men already breeding domestic roosters to fight, putting them in shared cages and letting them scrap over small amounts of food.

Social scientists say cockfighting is popular in the Philippines because it reflects the national passion for brevity or a quick payoff, the trait of ningas cogon (cogon being a wild grass that burns ferociously and quickly). Part of the appeal is the prize money. For a P200 entrance fee, a struggling farmer from the backwoods could finish the day with P300,000 in his pocket, all thanks to a trusty rooster he has groomed and trained assiduously for months.

Catholicism was introduced to the Philippines in 1521 with the arrival of Magellan, and today around 80 percent of the population is Roman Catholic; just 10 percent is Protestant, 5 to 10 percent Muslim and the remainder Buddhist, animist and other religions. Every barangay, town and city has its patron saint, for whom grand fiestas are held annually, and churches, many beautifully weathered colonial relics, are well attended. Daily life, too, is shot through with Catholic imagery, whether it’s government announcements in the press urging people to pray the rosary, or television footage of god-fearing presidential candidates appealing to the heavens for guidance.

Millions of Filipinos depend on jeepneys – a kind of informal minibus service – to get to school and the office, or to transport livestock to market. Jeepneys are able to operate where roads are too narrow for regular buses, and as a result most travellers end up using them at least once – despite the discomfort, for many it’s one of the highlights of their trip, a genuine slice of Filipino life.

The original jeepneys, cannibalized from vehicles left behind by departing Americans at the end of World War II, have evolved over the past five decades into the mass-produced versions that you see on the streets today, decorated with chrome trinkets, blinking fairy lights and images of celebrities. Others sport religious mottos, crucifixes and images of saints, perhaps understandable given the high accident rates they rack up.

Videoke - “video karaoke” - is a major fad in the Philippines, with cheap videoke bars in almost every town and neighbourhood. While it can be fun to participate in a Filipino singing session, being regaled by drunken wailings wafting through your hotel window in the early hours isn’t so amusing. Adding to the mix, most Filipino families own one (or more) karaoke machines that are used throughout the week, but especially on special occasions, birthdays and weddings. Incidentally, a Filipino inventor (Roberto del Rosario) actually holds the patent for the karaoke machine.

Travel advice for Philippines

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Philippines

• Culture and Etiquette in Philippines
• Eating and drinking in Philippines
• How to get to Philippines
• Getting around Philippines: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Philippines
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Philippines
• Shopping tips for Philippines
• Travel Tips Philippines for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Philippines
• How to get a Philippines Visa

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Top Places to Visit in the Philippines

"It's More Fun" to Discover this Island Country's Hidden Charms

 Jordan Siemens/Getty Images

Most other countries in Southeast Asia are connected by road and rail to each other. Not the Philippines - it is the only country in the region with neither land borders nor road links to any of its neighbors.

But don't let that stop you from flying in anyway: as you'll see in the destinations listed below, many of this country's attractions are worth the special trip. (Check out this two-week Philippines-centered itinerary that puts a timetable to many of the destinations we've listed below.)

Manila: Heart of Empire

Mike Aquino

Most travelers skip exploring Manila at length, preferring to jet in and out to the rest of the Philippines without delay. They're missing out on a lot: the conglomeration of Metro Manila has more partying, culture, history and entertainment than all the other spots combined. (Shhh, don't tell the people from Cebu.)

Manila served as the seat for two successive colonial rulers. Spain's presence can still be felt in the old walled city Intramuros and its feared bastion Fort Santiago ; the American presence manifests today in the Beaux-arts government buildings around Rizal Park. 

Once you get the hang of Manila's transportation system , you can then move all around the city to see its top sights. And you get a real potpourri - Bonifacio Global City's hypermodern streets, museums and shopping malls; Binondo's ancient higgledly-piggledly of Chinese-Filipino businesses and eating places; and Makati's two worlds of businessmen and backpackers.

Cebu: Queen City

The "Queen City of the South" vies with Manila for recognition as the Philippines' Number One City. But in terms of ease of transport, access to the great outdoors, and more fun per square mile, Cebu has the capital beat. (Shhh, don't tell the people from Manila.)

The Spanish came here to Cebu first via Mexico, and remade the place and its people in their image. Their influence can still be felt in the Basilica Minore de Santo Niño , where a glass-covered niche holds a precious statue of the Christ Child that commands countless devotees throughout Cebu. This devotion reaches its peak during the Sinulog Festival (pictured here) that takes place in the middle of January every year.

The rest of the city overlays 21st-century modernity onto an older stratum of churches, ancient museum-lined streets like Calle Colon, and street food stops like Fuente Osmeña.

The waters around Cebu are known for their biodiversity; famous dive spots around the area, like Sumilon Island and Moalboal, attract thousands of experienced divers every year. And you don't even need a PADI certificate to experience the swim of a lifetime; the far-flung town of Oslob lets you snorkel with the whale sharks.

The Cordilleras' Rice Terraces: Mountain Magic

 The mountainous terrain of the Philippines' Cordilleras kept the Spanish colonizers away, allowing the Ifugao of these parts to keep their unique culture alive. Today, buses regularly ply the treacherously curvy roads leading into Banaue - you can now take a nine-hour bus ride from Manila into the mountains, going where conquistadores feared to tread.

Hiking around the UNESCO World Heritage sites in these parts - the rice terraces carved out of the mountains some 500 years ago - you'll find a way of life that revolves around rice. You'll also walk some pretty challenging hiking trails that plunge steeply down mountainsides and right alongside sheer cliff faces.

Don't forget to look around you (when you're not watching your step) - the sight of the rice terraces surrounding you will be one for the books.

Siargao: Surfing on Cloud Nine

Its short coastline facing the Pacific Ocean has few family-friendly beaches, but that doesn’t stop international travelers from converging on Siargao and its challenging surfing spots.

Siargao was “discovered” by the outside world in the 1970s, and has long been a “secret” known only to locals and surfers till very recently. The surfing spot known as Cloud 9 boasts a ferocious reputation , its powerful waves and rocky bottom shredding backsides and egos on a regular basis. (This writer experienced Siargao’s tamer surf spots first-hand .)

The island’s taken a more family-friendly turn as of late, helped along by a hit movie and breathless word-of-mouth. While this 170-square-mile island denies “the next Boracay” title, the new resorts and tours around the island capitalize on other fascinating features such as the Magpupungko tidal pool and the white-sand beaches on outlying islands – Naked Island (actually a sandbar); Guyam Island and Daku Island.  

Iloilo: Cultural Pearl

Ryan Ang/Getty Images

Iloilo was once the Philippines’ richest city, and the sugar trade that powered its rise in the early 20 th century left an indelible mark. Visiting Iloilo today feels like entering a genteel bubble, one where a riverside esplanade, a UNESCO-recognized stone church, and tree-shaded parks feels like the status quo the Philippines deserves to be.

The main city of Iloilo rewards visitors willing to wander around: Molo Plaza and its nearby mansions; the Calle Real and its stately buildings; and the hidden food stalls at the Central Market await travelers willing to see local culture up close.

Faith is a big draw for Iloilo visitors, beginning with the tropical motifs carved in stone on the historic (and UNESCO-recognized) Miag-Ao Church; and culminating in the kitschy hilltop heavenly replica at Garin Farm (wear your sunglasses). 

Boracay: Beach Party Bingo

Christian Kober/Robertharding/Getty Images

If you're in the Philippines to party, then head straight to Boracay. The island's famous White Beach - its 2.5 miles of powdery white sand lined with a raucous collection of resorts, restaurants, bars and one shopping center known as "D'Mall" - reaches a massive party frenzy during Christmas, Holy Week (!), and the International Labor Day weekend referred to by Filipinos as "LaBoracay".

Practically unknown and inaccessible prior to the 1980s, Boracay is now easily reached via plane and boat from around the Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asia. If you're looking for something else to do than gulp down shots into the wee hours, Boracay obliges with plenty of other activities, from ATVing to parasailing to golf.

In the low season between June to October, windsurfing fanatics take over the other coast's Bulabog Beach, turning the skies above it into a flurry of color.

Palawan: World's Best Island

TripSavvy / Paula Galindo Valle

The “world’s best island” makes up the “arm” of the Philippines, a 260-mile sliver running southwest to northeast along the archipelago’s western flank. Wherever you land on that “arm”, you’ll find Paradise, though expressed in different ways.

At the capital Puerto Princesa, you’ll find an abundant spread of local food, and one of the Philippines’ best craft beer shops. Fly or drive up to the town of El Nido , and you’ll discover an archipelago filled with over 40 breathtakingly beautiful limestone islands ripe for island-hopping and hiking around the cliffs .

Then there’s Coron at the northern extreme of the island: site of a World War II wreck dive site and bucket-list worthy beaches and lagoons.

Bohol: Nature, Churches, Beaches

Long known for the subtly erotic " Chocolate Hills ", the sleepy island of Bohol has managed to develop a travel reputation of its own that not even a massive earthquake could topple. The karst limestone that gave Bohol its Chocolate Hills also gave it its clean, winding rivers; its gorges made for ziplining and rappelling through; and the white-sand beaches of nearby Panglao.

Transportation to Bohol is easy - one can either fly into Tagbilaran Airport or take the SuperCAT ferry from Cebu. Once you arrive, you'll have your choice of adventures before you. Meet the freaky-looking tarsier? Visit the ancient Baclayon Church, an ancient earthquake survivor? Or go island-hopping from Panglao in the hopes of meeting the dancing spinner dolphins of the Bohol Sea?

It's all up to you - just make sure you've found a place to stay. Divers and beachcombers will find a pleasing assortment of Panglao Island resorts.

Davao: Adventure Travel Hotspot

The Philippines has three major island groupings - Luzon (with Manila at its head); the Visayas (with Cebu as its biggest city); and Mindanao at its southernmost end, Davao City being its main gateway and major metropolis.

As the youngest city among the three, Davao stands next to a largely unspoiled marine and forest habitat; this access to the mountains and the sea makes Davao one of the Philippines' top spots for adventure travel.

A number of animal reservations also maintain communities of endangered species, and are well worth a visit - the Philippine Eagle Center breeds and maintains a population of Philippine Eagles (Pithecophaga jefferyi), and the privately-owned Monfort Bat Sanctuary on Samal Island maintains a community of fruit bats.

Pampanga: Cultural Hotbed

The province of Pampanga north of Manila once had a reputation for being more Spanish than the Spanish. As a result, their embrace of the colonial way of life led to their unique architecture, cuisine, and culture: distinctly Latin with a local twist.

This makes Pampanga a must-see stop for foodie travelers, who can make the province one stop in a culinary itinerary of the Philippines’ top eats , or as part of a dedicated trip to eat the best of Kapampangan food.

Pampanga is also (in)famous for Mount Pinatubo, which exploded in 1991 and buried several towns in ash. The volcano has since fallen dormant, and locals now manage treks up to the crater and its scenic crater lake .   

Siquijor: Beaches and Witches, Oh My!

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One of the last frontiers of the Philippines, the island of Siquijor benefits from gorgeous beaches, verdant jungle and a reputation for witchcraft.

The beaches don’t have the crowds of Phuket or Boracay, but they’re amazing sights nonetheless: Kagusuan Beach and Paliton Beach offer white-sand swimming and excellent snorkeling with less beach touts to worry about. Other natural features abound on the island, such as the cascading Cambugahay Falls and the mysterious Llihan Cave.

Siquijor’s culture remains devoutly Catholic with an occult underside. After visiting the 200-year-old coral churches like the San Isidro Labrador Church in Lazi, you can visit a local “mambabarang” (witch doctor) who can brew love potions and curses on demand.   

Legazpi: Mayon Volcano Sights & Sounds

 The city of Legazpi is a short air hop from Manila, but could not be more different in character. With a surfeit of wide-open spaces, access to the sea, and endless avenues to adventure, Legazpi makes the most out of its proximity to Mayon Volcano, whose perfect cone can be seen from anywhere in Legazpi.

Spend half the day ATVing up Mayon's slopes, splashing through creeks and past massive boulders set down by recent Mayon eruptions. You can then spend the rest of your stay exploring the other side of Legazpi - eating their famously spicy food or gazing at centuries-old churches that have somehow survived Mayon's fury over the ages. 

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10 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

The Philippines is an island nation located in the Western Pacific. The region boasts one of the world’s longest combined coastlines due to the nation’s seven thousand tropical islands. These islands have beautiful coral reefs and spectacular diving, wildlife like whale sharks and dugongs, and mountainous tropical rainforests.

Filipino people are smiling, warm, and generous. Flights can be found to Manila or Cebu, and interisland travel is easy to find via plane, car, train, or ferry. Here is a look at some of the best places to visit in the Philippines :

10. Vigan [SEE MAP]

A visit to the Crisologo St region of this town is like a step back to colonial times. Horses pull carts along cobblestone streets, and dark-wood mansions flank the sides, as a reminder of the grand life that many enjoyed in this colonial Spanish trading post. At the time, many goods like beeswax and gold were traded to China for exotic Asian items.

Today, the main income for this port is tourism, though the splendor from its trading history remains. Vigan has two hearts, a shopping center in the North, and a business district in the South. Tourists will enjoy the museums that have been created from several mansions, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Mestizo district.

9. Bohol [SEE MAP]

The huge orange eyes and tiny fingers of the miniscule tarsier serve as the spokesmodel for the island of Bohol. Just a short trip from Cebu, this area is one of the few remaining homes for this tiny primate. The unique geologic oddity of the chocolate hills serves as the second draw for the non-divers to the region.

The mogul-like hills come with a legend of being formed by the rocks thrown by an angry giant. Most of the visitors to this region are, however, here to partake in the breathtaking dive opportunities that the region has to offer. It is the jumping off point for the marine reserves off of Pangalo and Pamlican islands.

8. Manila [SEE MAP]

This Asian megacity is the capital of the Philippines, the fly-in point for most tourists, and a bustling opportunity to appreciate bounds of culture new and old. From tall gleaming buildings on the skyscraper gazing tour to the turn-of-the century landmarks on the self-guided downtown tour, there is much to see in Manila.

Food, whether from a street cart or high cuisine restaurant, is excellent and diverse, representing much more than the blend of Spanish, indigenous, and Chinese heritages that have found their way to this island nation. There is never a bad time to go to Manila, as there are almost two-dozen annual festivals to keep the city celebrating.

7. 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. They like tropical waters, which makes Donsol Bay a great habitat for them.

The protected species migrates through Donsol between November and June, with the numbers peaking between February and May. This huge fish is not shy about approaching boats; indeed, some carry scars from encounters with propellers.

6. Tagaytay [SEE MAP]

The Taal volcano that sits majestically above the town of Tagaytay is a combination of active and extinct craters that create a beautiful tapestry of must-sees. Lake Taal is nestled inside the old Taal volcano crater, and the central island for the lake is the currently active volcano craters, which can be seen steaming on certain days.

Those who have never seen the pristine waters of a crater lake in person will be astonished at their pristine beauty. The long town of Tagaytay sits along this ridge, and is known for being clean, laid back, and a haven for foodies. Tourist attractions in town include the Punta de Santiago lighthouse, St Anne Shrine, and the large local flower farm.

5. Cebu [SEE MAP]

Cebu is an island province in the Philippines, consisting of the main island itself and 167 surrounding islands. Its capital, Cebu city, is the oldest in the Philippines, and home to the nation’s second international airport.

The city is a smaller but similarly busy version of Manila, with many of the same urban benefits of new, old, cutting edge and cultural. One advantage that Cebu has is Matcan island, featuring a premiere dive site that is a short drive from an international airport. Another diving gem, the island and resorts of Malapascua, is about a four hour drive to the port town of Maya, and then must be accessed by boat. It is well worth the trip, however, as it is often considered the number one dive site in the country.

4. Mindoro [SEE MAP]

Mindoro is an island that consists of two different regions, Mindoro Oriental and Mindoro Occidental, which are separated from one another by a high mountain range. The north of the region is mostly remote, and home to the primitive Mangayan tribe. This trip is well worth it for divers, however, as the town of Sablayan is the doorway to the island of Pangan and the pristine Apo Reef Marine Natural Park.

There is only one resort on the island, so reservations are recommended. In Mindoro Oriental, the main tourism location is the town of Puerto Galera. This is the ideal beach town, with resorts and white sand beaches for the water lovers, as well as jeep trips, orchid-filled rainforests, kayaking rivers and waterfalls for the trekkers in the group.

3. Banuae [SEE MAP]

The mud-walled rice terraces in Banuae are reason enough to take the bus trip from Manila to this unique indigenous town. The agricultural engineering system represented here was built 2000 years ago and passed on from generation to generation.

Though the serene and impressive flats would be enough to make this a must-see, the spectacular wood-carved rice guardians make the trip even more worthwhile. The ancient, crude sculptures are reminiscent of tikis, and believed to protect the crops from harm.

Though tourism has brought the Western world to an ancient way of life and created a large tourist market here, there are opportunities to visit less touristy towns whose rice crops are still the main staple of their economy for those seeking a more authentic experience.

2. Boracay [SEE MAP]

Endless white sand beaches, colorful outrigger sailboat rides, and beautiful resorts grace this island that has been consistently in the top three beaches in the world by travel review sites. The most populous region of Boracay is the central part of White Beach, which has the most opportunities for food, adventure, shopping, and public merriment.

Moving further away, more remote options are available, but they come with reduced amenities. Lodging ranges from budget shacks to high-end full-service resorts, but the white sand beaches, turquoise water, and romantic ambiance are open to all.

1. Palawan [SEE MAP]

One of the best places to visit in the Philippines, Palawan is an island province that stretches from Mindoro to Borneo between the South China and Sulu seas. Puerto Princesa, which is close to large karst formations with an underground river, is the provincial capital.

Coron Reefs on Busuanga Island is a popular diving spot, drawing divers who want to explore Japanese shipwrecks from World War II. Another popular destination is El Nido, a town sandwiched between towering limestone karst cliffs and the beautiful Bacuit Bay.

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Reader interactions.

April 2, 2015 at 10:17 am

Interesting list. I know someone who just spent 6 months in the Philippines (Cebu), and she loved it so much that she’s returning very soon to live there. I’ve got to admit, it has kind of intrigued me to go there as well.

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Ultimate 10 Day Philippines Itinerary – Updated For 2023

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The Philippines is often overlooked by many traveling to Southeast Asia (largely because it’s outside of the traditional backpacker trail). But, as someone who grew up there and traveled extensively all over the country, let me be the first to tell you… it’s amazing. 

With over 7,000 beautiful islands, nailing down the perfect 10-day Philippines itinerary can be tricky. Luckily, I’ve done all the hard work and put together an epic 10-day adventure using my personal knowledge and experience.

Table of Contents

What to do and see in manila, where to eat in manila, where to stay in manila, what to do and see in el nido, where to eat in el nido, where to stay in el nido, what to do and see in coron, where to eat in coron, where to stay in coron, what to do and see in moalboal, where to eat in moalboal, where to stay in moalboal, what to do and see in boracay, where to eat in boracay, where to stay in boracay, day 10: manila, final thoughts:.

10 days is just about enough time to see some of the Philippines’ top sights, but you’ll be doing a lot of flying between destinations and you may have to take the occasional bus or ferry. This itinerary is also very beach orientated, but hey, with some of the best beaches in the world , can you blame me?

Day 1: Manila

For this itinerary, I’m going to assume that you’ve flown into Manila International Airport (NAIA). If you’re planning on flying into Cebu, this itinerary will still work, just substitute Cebu for Manila on your first and final day, and note that the flight times will be slightly different. 

You’ve probably flown a long way and are quite tired, so you’ve got one night in Manila to relax, but, you can always head straight out to El Nido, your next destination if you wanna skip the city slog!

The traffic in Manila is notoriously bad, so you can choose to stay near the airport, or head into Makati, metro Manila’s economic hub. The best way to travel around big cities in the Philippines is to use Grab (similar to Uber). You can download the app before you arrive, or use a Grab stand at the airport. 

If you do head into Makati, opt to take the NAIA Expressway when your taxi/Grab driver asks. It costs less than 100PHP, and you’ll save loads of time. Today is mostly for downtime, so I’d recommend grabbing some food and just relaxing.

Manila isn’t really known as a huge tourist destination and it’s seen by many as more of a layover destination. However, if you’ve arrived quite early, I’ve got a couple of suggestions on what you could do, again, just bear in mind the awful traffic…

• Fort Santiago, Intramuros – a historic citadel that dates back to 1571 and a reminder of the Philippines’ colonial past. 
• Ayala Museum, Makati – hands down my favourite museum in the Philippines and a great place to learn about the archipelago’s beautiful culture (the Gold Exhibit is particularly incredible, showcasing pre-colonial era gold artefacts).

As the country’s thriving hub, Manila is a great foodie destination. You’ll find everything from cool cafes serving up freshly-baked pastries to high-end restaurants with gourmet cuisine. Here are my personal favourites when I’m in Manila: 

• The Grid, Powerplant Mall – I eat at The Grid at any chance I get. It’s an upmarket food hall, with everything from ramen to tacos (get the ramen). 
• Manam, Greenbelt 2 – Filipino food definitely gets a bad rap, but if you’re ready to expand your taste buds, head to Manam in Greenbelt 2. You’ll find classic Filipino comfort food as well as dishes with a twist. My all-time Filipino favourties are tortang talong, kare kare, sinigang, and sisig. 
• Jollibee – With chains popping up globally, you might even have a Jollibee near you, but nothing beats the real thing. Two-piece chicken joy with rice and gravy, I’ll say no more…
• $$$ – Discovery Primea – my go-to when I’m feeling like a little luxury (watching TV in the bath? Yes please!).
• $$ – Jinjiang Inn
• $ – Z Hostel

Day 2: El Nido

Travel time: Flight – 1h 25m 

It’s time to leave the busy streets of Manila and make your way to the island paradise of El Nido in Palawan. The flight takes around one hour and 25 minutes, and when you arrive, it’s a short tuk-tuk (or tricycle in the Philippines) ride to El Nido Beach or Corong Corong Beach, where you’ll find restaurants, bars, and plenty of places to stay. 

Since all the tours leave at 8 am, you’ll probably have no time for a tour today, but you can still get some beach time after checking into your hotel.

Rent a scooter to get around, or if you don’t have a driving license/aren’t confident driving there are plenty of tricycles milling around ready to take you where you need to go! Here’s what I recommend for today:

• Nacpan Beach – a gorgeous 4km stretch of sand lined by palm trees. 
• Las Cabañas Beach – a fantastic beach to watch the sunset with views of neighboring islands.
• Tahan – This is a great little vegan place tucked away in the town (although it feels like you could be in the jungle). It’s got some serious tree-house vibes and the food is delicious! Currently (October 2022) it’s only available by reservation only, you can find their contact details here . 
• Happiness Beach Bar – A really cool place for healthy meals and cocktails (make sure to take advantage of happy hour).
• $$$ – Maligaya Beach Bungalows
• $$ – Sampaguita Villa – I absolutely loved staying here last time I was in El Nido (we were a group of four). It’s a little out of the way, but if you want a quiet base then it’s fantastic. Just be aware that the second bedroom is a loft, so it can get a bit cramped if you’re a tall person! However, it’s definitely #instaworthy.
• $ – Happiness Hostel

Day 3: El Nido

Today’s the day to hop on one of the infamous El Nido tours. There are four to choose from (more on that below), and as I mentioned earlier they all depart at 8 am, usually from Corong-Corong Beach returning at 4 pm. So, it’s a pretty full day. It’s probably better to arrange the tour the day before to make sure there’s space. 

You can take group tours or private tours, and they all include a delicious buffet lunch usually consisting of grilled seafood, pork, rice, fruits, and Filipino eggplant salad.

You only have time for one tour during this short 10-day Philippines trip, so choose wisely. 

• Tour A – The most popular tour, stopping at Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and 7 Commando Beach.
• Tour B – Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, Cudugnon Cave, and a snorkeling spot. 
• Tour C – The second most popular tour, stopping at Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Talisay Beach, and Hidden Beach. 
• Tour D – My personal favorite (and normally one of the least crowded tours), stopping at Ipil Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasandigan Island, Natnat Island, and Bukal Beach.
• Bella Vita El Nido – If you’re craving authentic Italian food right on the beach, then this is your spot. 
• Sunset at Las Cabañas – Head here for a killer sunset view and some cocktails.

Related: See The Best Of Thailand: The Best 2-Week Itinerary

Day 4 + 5: Coron

Travel time: Flight – 1h 45m or ferry – 3h 30m 

On day four you’ll either be hopping on a flight or ferry to another one of Palawan’s gorgeous islands, Coron. You’ll probably recognize Coron’s azure-blue waters and hidden limestone lagoons from social media, which helped to introduce this idyllic spot to the masses.

Aside from its mystical lagoons, Coron is well known for scuba diving, more specifically, its wreck diving. If you’re an avid diver, then I recommend diving on the same day you arrive (day 4), to make sure you have at least a 12-hour preflight surface interval before flying to Cebu on day 6. 

Unlike El Nido, there are numerous tours and tour operators in Coron, so I’d recommend picking one that includes the attractions you want to see most. Most tours last around 8 hours (or more) and include a buffet lunch. Here are my top attractions and recommendations for Coron:

• Kayangan Lake – Undoubtedly Coron’s most famous attraction, and dubbed the ‘cleanest lake in Asia’. 
• Barracuda Lake – Another lake with astounding blue waters, Barracuda Lake is still highly popular, but tends to be less crowded than Kayangan Lake. 
• Twin Lagoon – A gorgeous spot and another good choice if you want somewhere a little less crowded than Kayangan Lake. 
• Snorkelling at Skeleton Wreck – This is a great choice for someone who wants to see one of Coron’s infamous wrecks, but doesn’t have diving experience. The wreck is relatively shallow, and good visibility means you should be able to see its ghostly remains. 

Scuba Diving at one of the ‘Big 6’ Wrecks – These are known as the best wrecks in Coron, although there are countless other wrecks to choose from. The ‘Big 6’ are: Akitsushima (seaplane) , Irako, Kogyo Maru (cargo vessel) , Olympia Maru (freighter) , Okikawa Maru (oiler) , and a Japanese Freighter without a name.

• Pacifico Coron – Head here for a classic burger and fries washed down with some local craft beers. They also have lots of vegetarian options. 
• Trattoria Altrove – Brick-oven pizza and pasta dishes. 
• Sakura Ramen – Best place to get some ramen if (like me) you need to eat Japanese food on a regular basis.
• $$$ – Paolyn Houseboats Coron Island – Not a 5-star hotel by any means, but the location is unbeatable.
• $$ – Kokosnuss Garden Resort
• $ – Dayon Hostel

Day 6 + 7: Moalboal, Cebu

Travel time: Flight – 1h 40m and bus/van – 3h

It’s time to leave Palawan and fly over to Cebu, where you’ll be spending a couple of days in Moalboal. Moalboal is a chilled-out coastal town known for its sardine run, diving (scuba diving and freediving), plus its proximity to Kawasan Falls.

Once again (like so many destinations in the Philippines) Moalboal is a good diving spot, so if you plan to do some diving, try to do it on the day you arrive. Otherwise, book your flights accordingly. Here are my top things to do in Moalboal and nearby:

• Snorkeling with the sardines off Panagsama Beach – Known as the ‘sardine run’ this natural phenomenon results in thousands of shimmering sardines gathering just off the shore (it’s honestly incredible). Best seen from November to May.
• Scuba diving/freediving off Pescador Island
• Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls – Note: Kawasan Falls was heavily damaged by a typhoon in 2021, and as far as I know the waterfall is still closed (October 2022). However, canyoneering is still possible, and a good way to experience the aqua waters of the area. 

You may have heard of whale shark tours in Oslob, Cebu, or seen them on social media. I do not recommend this as it’s a highly unethical practice that results in harm to the whale sharks. You can read all about it here on LAMAVE’s (an NGO doing research in the area) website.

• Venz’s Kitchen – A great place to try some local Filipino dishes with options for vegans. 
• Hungry Monkeys – Head here for a mixture of Filipino and European dishes, plus nice sunset views from their balcony. 
• Lola Tanciang’s Sutukil Seafood Paluto – Highly recommended for anyone craving seafood, with a blend of local and European seafood dishes.
• $$$ – Dolphin House Resort
• $$ – Cebu Seaview Dive Resort
• $ – Cebu Seaview Dive Resort

Day 8 + 9: Boracay

Travel time: Van 3h and flight – 1h

For your last few days, you’ll be heading to Boracay, a world-renowned island. It got a bit of a bad rep in the last few years due to over-development and over-crowding, but a government-mandated closure in 2018 followed by the COVID-19 pandemic means that there’s no better time to visit the island than now (I went in 2021 and it was a dream). 

Boracay is the ultimate luxury beach destination, with powdery white sand, turquoise blue waters, and lush palm trees. So, get ready for a couple of days chilling out on the beach, eating great food, and doing some watersports.

• Go kitesurfing on Balabog Beach – The kitesurfing season generally runs from November to March. It’s great because while Balabog Beach can get super windy, White Beach on the other side remains calm. You’ll find a few centres along Balabog Beach. 
• Take a sunset cruise on a traditional sailboat – The sunsets on Boracay are legendary, and what better way to see them than from on the water?
• Walk along White Beach – White Beach is around 4km long, and it’s great walking along the beachfront looking for restaurants, bars, and cafes to pop into. 
• Party it UP –  The nightlife in Boracay is great, and you’ll find lively bars on White Beach (Epic and Exit Bar to name a couple).

One of my favorite things about Boracay is the blend of island life and ‘city’ comforts like great food and amazing accommodation. Here are my top places to eat: 

• The Lemoni Cafe – Whether it’s for a coffee and a cake or a delicious breakfast, I adore the Lemoni Cafe and its central location in D’Mall a short walk from White Beach. 
• Trattoria Stella – You’ll find Trattoria Stella near Diniwid Beach, one of the island’s quieter beaches. If you love authentic handmade pasta, this is the place to go. 
• Cafe Maruja – Cafe Maruja is my top pick for a seriously instagrammable cafe with a hipster menu (think smoothie bowls and matcha lattes). It’s right on the beach with awesome outdoor seating under the palms.
• $$$ – Shangri-La
• $$ – Levantin Boracay – I stayed here for three weeks in 2021 and had the best time. It’s on Balabog Beach, so it feels more peaceful, but the hotel bar is lively with tourists and locals. The place is beautiful and the owners and staff are super nice.
• $ – Boracay Backpackers

More travel content: The 15 Best Places To Visit In March: Worldwide

Travel time: Flight – 1h 10m

Today you’re heading to Manila to catch your final flight home. If you’ve got a bit of time check back to my suggestions for day 1 and where I recommend staying if you have another night before your flight.

There’s no denying that the Philippines is a stunning country filled with beautiful scenery and wonderful people. While you could easily spend years traveling around the country (trust me, I have!), this 10-day itinerary covers what I think are the must-sees. 

If you have any more suggestions to add about places to eat that you love or where to stay, feel free to drop us a comment below! Traveling to other countries in Southeast Asia? Check out our itineraries for Cambodia and Thailand .

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Philippines Tours & Trips

Dance 'til dawn in Manila, dive and discover the colours of the Pacific in Bohol, enter complete relaxation on the white beaches of Boracay, or kayak through the limestone cliffs of El Nido. From underground rivers and rice terraces to vibrant festivals and fresh food, a Philippines vacation is an inviting tropical escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Find the perfect resort to sip cocktails at in Palawan , or fall in love with the Southeast Asian cuisine in Cebu. Whether you're after an island-hopping getaway or a beach adventure, this Pearl of the Orient is calling your name.

82 Philippines tour packages with 5,096 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Philippines One Life Adventures - 10 Days

The tour is great, we had a wonderful time. Just the accommodations were a bit poor, but the rest it compensate all. Great atmosphere with the group, and our guide was perfect. Lots of fun, laughing, great company. We couldn’t have ask for more. I would totally recommend this tour.

• In-depth Cultural

Philippines West

Gema was an absolute legend! Constantly ensuring everyone was well informed as well as having the best time possible whilst exploring the beautiful Philippines. I couldn't have wished for a better tour guide/travel ninja! THANK YOU GEMA!

• Island Hopping

Philippines Island Explorer 13 day

Me and my friend went on this trip, and it was amazing. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Andri made the trip unforgettable. Everything was organized and well prepared. After this experience I would definitely go on another intro trip.

Wanderlands Philippines - 12 Days

What a fabulous tour! I had no idea what I should see and visit in the Philippines so I booked this tour and it was great. Dian was the best guide, showing us all the sights and helping us however she could - her knowledge of the Philippines was exceptional and she went above and beyond to make sure we had the best time

• €145 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Philippines Island Hopper

This trip was fantastic! Aside from the amazing islands we visited, the way the trip was organised was really good. The island hopping days were great, the extra few days in Moalboal and Boracay were great to be able to add in some scuba diving, parasailing and swimming with whale sharks. Doing the Philippines with a tour made life so much easier! I would 100% recommend.

Philippines One Life Adventures - 14 Days

The tour was absolutely fantastic! Lini was a great guide and made sure that I was having the best time. She was knowledgeable and, through this, she showed she had a passion for the Philippines. She made great recommendations for local restaurants and bars. The local guides that assisted Lini were all fun and very informative, adding that extra level of cultural knowledge. The activities were brilliant! The prison visit, island hopping days, cultural day, private island stays, and included massage all exceeded expectations and I honestly had the best time. The optional activities were also fantastic, the scuba diving in Coron was outstanding and totally recommended. The accommodation was good throughout with large, clean and functional rooms. Many of the meals were included which is always an added bonus. The transport between the locations was in a clean bus but it was a rather full as we had 22 people on the tour. The included transfer to the airport on the last day of the tour was also very useful and arranged by Lini so it was stress-free and seamless.

A Week In Palawan, Philippines

I was worried as my tour was canceled twice due to covid. But my tour was Great. As I traveled in second week of January. Phillipines was in Hangover of Christmas Holidays. My hotels were nice with good breakfast. Lunches in tours were delicious. Our agent

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10 Days Philippine Tour

Great trip and great service from CTPH always there to answer your questions and make any trip changes if you need it, very much recommended, thank you

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Ifugao Villages Trek

Although my trek was very challenging, I enjoyed every bit of it. My tour guide Jonathan was an amazing companion throughout my tour making me feel at home. Would definitely recommend it this tour of Banaue, Batad etc

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

Sagada & Banaue Rice Terraces 4-Day Tour

When I found information about this tour to Sagada and Banaue online, it already had such high reviews, but after experiencing the tour for myself, I would rate it even higher! This trip, guided by the wonderful Zohan, is extremely unique in large part due to the personal touches, stories, and intentional cultural experiences Zohan added to the itinerary. Though the tour is listed for all ages, I would specifically recommend for those ages 18-50 or so. There is quite a bit of hiking, walking, an overnight bus both ways, and lots of carrying of luggage. To participate in this trip, one must be eager to learn, open-minded to experience other cultures, and physically fit.

Philippines Palawan Island Getaway

Excellent tour and Ellise our guide was simply outstanding.

10 Days Do The Philippines Adventure Tour - Palawan Islands

I recently embarked on a 10-day tour to Palawan, Philippines, and I can confidently say that it was an absolute breathtaking experience! From the moment we arrived until the bittersweet farewell, and everything from the stunning landscapes to the warm hospitality of the locals made this trip truly unforgettable. Joining a group of fellow travellers only added to the incredible experience, as we formed lifelong friendships and shared unforgettable memories together. The moment we set foot on Palawan, we were greeted by a professional and friendly tour guide named Jovian who made us feel right at home. Jovain was very attentive, informed and participated enthusiastically in all the activities. He was full of laughter and ensured our safety, happiness and wellbeing was a priority. Jovian along with the other tour guides had exceptional professionalism and dedication. They were not only knowledgeable about the history, culture, and ecology of Palawan but also genuinely cared about our well-being and enjoyment. Their enthusiasm and passion for their homeland were infectious, and they made sure we experienced the true essence of Palawan and the nightlife. Our itinerary was meticulously planned, ensuring we made the most of every single day. From the crystal-clear turquoise waters to the lush green landscapes, every corner of this paradise seemed like it was plucked straight out of a postcard. We explored the enchanting underground river in Puerto Princesa to unwinding on the pristine beaches of El Nido and its hidden lagoons, every activity was filled with awe and wonder. We stayed in a variety of accommodations, ranging from cozy beachfront tents and huts to cozy resorts, each offering its own unique charm. The staff at every location were warm, welcoming, and went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable and memorable. Although the company could do a few more improvements in the choice of accomodations. One of the highlights of this tour was the delicious local cuisine. From indulging in fresh seafood feasts to savoring traditional Filipino dishes, our taste buds were constantly delighted. Our guides introduced us to local delicacies such as adobo, sisig and lechon. In conclusion, my 10-day tour to Palawan, Philippines, was an absolute 5-star adventure. The stunning natural beauty, incredible accommodations, mouthwatering cuisine, and the bonds formed with fellow travelers made this journey truly unforgettable. If you're seeking a paradise getaway filled with adventure, relaxation, and lifelong memories, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on a tour to Palawan. You won't be disappointed!

13 Days Philippines Explorer with Boracay

Tour was outstanding. So well organised, an amazing way to see some of the beautiful sights the Philippines has to offer in such a short amount of time. Accommodation was very clean and comfortable, activites were so much fun! Completely worth it and I will highly recommend this trip to my friends!

Explore The Cordilleras

What people love about philippines tours.

Loved this tour! Was the perfect mix of activities and group time and relaxation / solo time. The 2 day island hopping with overnight stay on the remote island is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had! Our tour guide cece was amazing too and made it really fun and involved everyone. Best snorkelling I’ve ever done too! Definitely recommending to friends and will be booking another one life tour in the future

AJ our tour guide was amazing

This was one of the best trips I've done. The itinerary was the perfect mix of activities and down time & I felt, hit the key places I'd travel to if doing it fully solo. Whilst the tour itself and the people I met on it were a big part of me having the best time, it wouldn't have been the same without our tour leader Andri. He helped join the group together before we even started and made everyone feel included once we got there. He was the best mix of chilled and reliable, super knowledgeable and put the needs of the group first like the wonderfully caring human he is. We always knew what we were doing and when and it felt like he made the trip run so smoothly - I only had to worry about turning up and having a good time. If you're thinking about booking this DO IT (and pray you'll have Andri has your leader)

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• Philippines Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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