One of the most beautiful countries in the Asian continent, the Philippines offers a plethora of scenic views. If you plan to visit the Philippines, you can explore the country for its mountain ranges, tropical forests, and metropolitan life.
To make sure you don’t get overwhelmed by the beauty of the country and the sheer number of places to explore, we have curated a list of the best places to visit in the Philippines for you.
Top Places to Visit in the Philippines
Here are the best places to visit in the Philippines -
Best Places to Visit in Summer
Best Places to Visit in Winter
Best Places to Visit with Family
Baguio
Manila
Cebu City
Palawan
Mountain Province
Albay Province
Boracay Island
Davao City
Davao City
Mountain Province
San Fernando City
Camiguin Island
Camiguin Island
Canlaon City
Baguio
1. Baguio
This city is the summer capital of the Philippines and is famous for its spotless beaches and tropical resorts. One of the perfect places to visit in the Philippines during the scorching heat, Baguio is known for its refreshing breeze and plentiful pine trees lined across the city.
If you are planning a summer vacation to this summer haven, here are some things and places worth including in your itinerary -
Camp John Hay - This was earlier a US military rest point and was also used for recreational activities. It has now become an American-themed cabin resort where you can relax and rejuvenate in the cool shades of pine trees. Among the popular activities here is the Tree Top Adventure, which includes sports like canopy rides, zip lining, and harnessed freefall. You can also go to the Bell House, a museum displaying American colonial architecture.
La Trinidad Strawberry Farm - A perfect place to visit in Philippines with your family, La Trinidad Strawberry Farm is all about getting into the field and plucking the delicious berries with your family. You can also visit the pasalubong centre to purchase souvenirs and reward yourself with Baguio’s famous strawberry Taho and ice cream for all your efforts in the field!
Boat Riding in Burnham Park - It is among the most-visited tourist spots in Baguio. Situated in the centre of the city, Burnham Park is perfect for family picnics and riding swan boats in the gentle Burnham Lake. The park has a lot to offer for children as well, who can skate in the Rose Garden skating rink and visit the Children’s park.
Visit The Mansion - Now a summer residence to the Philippine Presidents, The Mansion was once the official home of the US Governor-General in the Philippines. This tourist attraction homes a small museum that contains collectables from previous presidents.
2. Palawan
Hidden from the hustle and bustle of the cities, Palawan has always been appreciated for its incredible scenic beauty and isolated islands. The province has a lot to offer when it comes to adventure activities and exploring the natural beauty. It is one of the best places to visit in Philippines for couples and families.
Some places and things you should include in your itinerary when exploring the province are -
Puerto Princesa - This is an awe-inspiring coastal city known for its vast beaches, flora, and fauna. In Puerto Princesa, you can go to the UNESCO World Heritage Site- Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, where you can visit the underground river and a cave system.
Watch Iwahig Fireflies at Mangrove Ecotourism and Wildlife Park - Visit this place and ride on the paddle boat down the Iwahig River at night amidst the awe-inspiring display of fireflies in the mangroves.
Visit Culion Island - This is a small island that was once a leper colony. It had two divisions - one for leprosy-infected individuals and the other for healthy residents. With the disease eradicated, there are some relics of the disease. You can visit the Culion Museum and Archives and the historical structures of the town.
El Nido Beaches - El Nido is famous for its tranquil beaches like Nacpan, Marimegmeg, Corong-Corong, and Las Cabanas. You can visit these beaches for sunbathing, watching dreamy sunsets, walking by the shore, and relaxing in the warmth of the sun.
3. Boracay Island
Boracay is a beautiful island located near Manila and Cebu. It is enclosed by two beaches and is famous for its crystal clear water on all sides. It is one of the best places to visit in Philippines for couples to spend some time together.
If you are planning to visit the island, explore the following -
White Beach - This beach is globally famous for its three main stations - Station 1 which is packed with Luxury Resorts, Station 2 which hosts mid-range hotels and notable establishments like the D’Mall and D’Talipapa, and Station 3 which has an array of budgeted accommodations.
Island Hopping - You can take a tour of some of the most pristine beaches in Boracay Island on an island hopping tour that takes you through Magic Island, Crystal Cove Beach, and Crocodile Island.
Participate in Adrenaline Rush-inducing Activities - What makes Boracay Island one of the best places to visit in the Philippines is the vast assortment of water activities it has to offer. You and your loved ones can participate in watersports like banana boat ride, fly fish, paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, crystal kayaking, and more.
Shopping at D’Mall - Your visit to Boracay Island is not over until you visit the famous souvenir shops at the D’Mall. Explore this establishment for souvenir shops, food stalls, and beach front.
4. Mountain Province
Based in Cordilleras, Mountain Province is home to some of nature’s most beautiful creations including waterfalls, caves, mountains, and rivers. If you plan to visit this nature-centric province of the Philippines.
Here are some places you should include in your itinerary -
Mount Amuyao - One of the highest summits in the Philippines, Mount Amuyao is a sanctuary for endangered species of animals like deer, wild pigs, civet cats, and cloud rats. You can hike the trail and get a view of Sadanga, Bontoc, Sagada, and Bauko.
Fowa-as Falls - It is a major tourist attraction in Mountain Province. One of the tallest falls in the country, it has a pool that is more than 75 m wide. This fall is named after Fuwaas, a local farmer who, in an attempt to affix a soaking dike above the falls, accidentally fell down but fortunately survived.
Siblaw Tarae Lake - It is a bog-covered lake that is famous for several tales. When you separate the marsh, you will see the clear waters hidden underneath and the attractive forests surrounding the lake. At first glance, it appears to be a damp lawn. Sunrise is the greatest moment to see the lake's beauty as the sun's rays cast a mystical image on the water.
Bontoc Museum - It is situated inside Bontoc Town Centre where you can get a glimpse of artefacts, farming equipment, old images, and more from the cultures of different tribes. You can even purchase souvenirs from a local shop that offers customised t-shirts, necklaces, and beads.
5. Camiguin Island
A fitting name for Camiguin Island, one of the most stunning places to visit in the Philippines is "Island Born of Fire." Its volcanic eruptions' ruins helped shape it into the stunning place it is presently. Camiguin is situated in the middle of the Bohol Sea and is famous for pristine beaches, cold springs, hot springs, and waterfalls. All these natural features make it one of the best places to visit in the Philippines.
Given below are the places worth visiting and some of the best things to do on Camiguin Island -
Lounge on the Sandbar of White Island - Every beach lover's fantasy comes true on White Island, which offers white sand, sparkling oceans, and a vibrant undersea landscape. Swim in the shallow seas, go snorkelling for pleasure, or simply relax on the shore and take in the expansive vista of Mount Hibok-Hibok.
Binangawan Falls - Trekking to Binangawan Falls will take you through rocky, rainforest trails that are difficult in places and nestled in the mountains near the town of Sagay.
Mount Mambajao - Mount Mambajao, located in the middle of Camiguin Island, is a prominent site of the island. The highest point on the island, Mount Mambajao, which is next to Mount Hibok-Hibok, boldly rises to a height of 1,713 metres above sea level. Additionally, it is a natural park that is home to fauna unique to Camiguin.
Bura Soda Water Park - You should visit Bura Soda Water Swimming Pool, which is a pool of clean, refreshing water that tastes like soda. The resort's two huge pools receive an overflow of water from the Bura volcanic springs in Catarman. You can see bubbles rising from the pool's bottom that resemble soda bubbles.
6. Manila
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is frequently used as a launching pad to explore the nation's magnificent beaches, breathtaking islands, and distinctive natural beauties. Manila is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines as there are so many tourist attractions there. It is a lovely city full of fantastic experiences to have. With all of its fascinating tourist attractions, culinary hotspots, and entertaining activities, Manila is sure to win your heart.
Check out the places that you can visit in Manila at any time of the year -
Intramuros - This is the only area in Manila where you can witness authentic Spanish-era architectural ruins. You can visit Intramuros for a day's excursion and see this historically significant site. Walk along paved streets and you will see sculptures and historical markers. You can also sign up for a bambike or bamboo bike tour, ride a kalesa, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Rizal Park - Rizal Park is a monument with significant historical value that is situated in the centre of Manila. Jose Rizal, a national hero of the Philippines, is honoured in the park. Rizal Park has numerous fountains, landmarks, squares, gardens, vast stadiums, observatories, outdoor concert venues, sound and light theatres, and stores.
National Museum Complex - The Art, Natural History, Anthropology, and Planetarium departments of the Philippine National National Museum are all part of National Museum tours. Permanent collections covering numerous components of this country’s history, culture, and art are all located inside the same complex of buildings. You can see the best departments of the museum by signing up for a National Museum tour.
7. Davao City
Davao City is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. The province has it all for you - parks, beaches, rare animal conservation facilities, outdoor activities, places to feast on delectable local food, top-notch Davao hotels, and the renowned Kadayawan Festival.
Here are the places to visit in Davao City -
Samal Island - One of the top locations in the Philippines for island hopping, Samal Island is frequently the first stop for tourists exploring this region of the nation. This island offers a variety of sights for a varied Davao to Samal route and has numerous resorts. Hagimit Falls is a lovely location to unwind and relax.
Eden Nature Park - The tranquillity and tropical forest temperature of Eden Nature Park are highly recommended as they can undoubtedly ease anyone's stress from the noise of the busy metropolis. Tourist attractions in the nature park include the Amphitheatre, Lola's Garden, Plaza Maria, Flower Garden, Mayumi's Well, and others.
Crocodile Park - One of the well-known tourist destinations in Davao wildlife adventure is Crocodile Park. This location exhibits the most advanced crocodile breeding in the nation, complete with contemporary facilities and equipment. The Davao Crocodile Park is home to numerous birds, monkeys, snakes, and other reptile species in addition to crocodiles. Additionally, they provide talks, learning opportunities, and awareness of wildlife protection.
8. San Fernando City
Fernando City is a terrific destination for a special family bonding weekend without the burden of a protracted trip. It offers some of the best places to visit in the Philippines and is only a 2 to 3-hour drive from Metro Manila. San Fernando, Pampanga, undoubtedly has something for the entire family to enjoy, from amusement parks for young and young-at-heart to spas and coffee shops for people seeking relaxation.
Some of the places to visit in San Fernando City are -
Lazatin House - The Lazatin family owns this architectural marvel, which is still frequently visited by tourists drawn to its fascinating past. The heritage property has also been visited by a number of well-known personalities, including Martha Stewart.
Arzobispado De Pampanga Church - You can enjoy your Sunday morning here attending mass or just taking in the beautiful architecture that surrounds the location. For these reasons, Arzobispado De Pampanga Church is a well-known wedding location.
Citronnelle Spa and Cafe - They remain open from 10 am to 12 am and provide a variety of relaxing and stress-relieving services, including access to the steam room, body and face care treatments, and waxing.
Jump Yard Indoor Trampoline Park - This facility places a high priority on safety and has a designated warm-up space. The number of persons allowed within the main trampoline zone is restricted. Children younger than five are welcome, but only in the toddler section. There are several enjoyable activities such as wall climbing and rebounding basketball.
9. Albay Province
The famous Mount Mayon or Mayon Volcano is found in the province of Albay. There are several destinations to visit in Albay which will not only provide you with breathtaking views of the Mayon Volcano but also give you the chance to explore other natural attractions as well as historical and cultural sites. All the uniqueness makes the province one of the best places to visit in the Philippines.
Following are the places to visit in Albay Province -
Danao Lake - Lake Danao Natural Park, one of Albay's most underappreciated tourist attractions, offers travellers an opportunity to unwind and connect with nature. The location is a small crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation. Fishes, such as the Mistichthys luzonensis or sinarapan, the tiniest freshwater fish in the world, live in the lake's waters.
Trinity Islands - Trinity Islands are 90 km away from Legazpi. The vistas you will see once you arrive here make the trip worthwhile despite the lengthy land travel time. You will quickly understand where the name of the islands comes from when you get closer. Three little peaks can be seen rising out of the ocean in the distance - they all appear to have been pushed and piled together.
Vanishing Island - Vanishing Island, like Corangon Island, is only visible and accessible around low tide. If you are fortunate enough to be able to get there, you can lease any of the floating cottages to unwind and simply enjoy the beauty of the ocean.
10. Canlaon City
One of the best places to visit in the Philippines in December, Canlaon City is located on Negros Island. It is popularly known as the vegetable basket of Negros Island and is famous for its agricultural harvests that are supplied on the island and in the nearby provinces.
If you include Canlaon City in your Philippines trip itinerary, here are some top places that are worth a visit -
The Ruins - This place is named after the remains of the ancestral mansion of Lascon’s family. This mansion is in Talisay and was built in the early 1900s. Visit this attraction for its Italian-inspired architecture.
Canlaon Volcano - If you are into mountain climbing or hiking, Canlaon Volcano summit is just the place for you. However, since it is the largest active volcano in the city, you would need to secure a permit from the Canlaon Tourism Office.
Balete Tree - Another magnificent and mystic attraction in Canlaon City is the century-old Balete Tree (also called Dalakit Tree). This place is best for educational tours, wedding receptions, and tours.
11. Cebu City
Yet another one of the best places to visit in the Philippines for couples is Cebu. This city is famous for its vibrant culture and festivals like Cebu Sinulog Festival.
If you are planning to visit Cebu City on your family trip to the Philippines, you can check out these places -
Kawasawan Falls - It is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Philippines. You can explore this waterfall either via trekking or canyoneering tours.
Bantayan Island - It is a small island on the northern coast of Cebu. Explore the island for its pristine white beaches and soothing sea water.
Temple of Leah - Often regarded as the Taj Mahal of Cebu, the Temple of Leah is famous for its grandeur. Explore this structure for its granite floors, Doric columns, Greek-style statues, and more.
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