Top 10 Travel Destinations in the Philippines

best places to visit in the Philippines

Read this guide and find out the best places to visit in the Philippines and the top things to do in the country.

If you’re looking for a tropical getaway, fantastic scenery, and endless adventure, the Philippines is the place to go.

If tropical islands, lovely scenery, and limitless adventure are on your holiday wishlist, you’ve come to the right place.

Between the many islands of the Philippines, visitors will discover a paradise with delicious seafood and pristine beauty. With over 7,000 islands to explore, it’s easy to find something interesting in each one. The geographical features of the Philippines ensure that wherever you travel there are natural sites to see. Expect gorgeous sights, noteworthy attractions, pleasant inhabitants, and cherished

The Philippines offers a variety of experiences, from pristine white sand beaches to historic landmarks. The world’s perfect cone volcano, the smallest primate, world-class surfing spots, and centuries-old Spanish fortresses are just a few of the activities available on your Philippine vacation.

Once here, make sure to visit Willy’s Rock, relax at White Beach and Nonie’s for one of the best bites to eat on the island. 6.) Manila If you’re travelling on a long-haul flight to the Philippines, it’s likely you’ll first fly into the capital city, Manila. Now, Manila is a thriving (and pretty huge) metropolis that’s got everything from shiny skyscrapers, quirky Dessert Museums and plenty of history. Whilst you’re here, make sure you visit the lush gardens of Fort Santiago, ride a jeepney and pop into Jollibee’s for some spicy chicken. It’s

Visa Services: Limited visa services are available by appointment only at the U.S. Embassy in Manila. Visit the Embassy’s visa alert page for updates on visa services and operations. Local Resources: Philippine Government COVID-19 Information Philippine Department of Health Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) Philippine Civil Aeronautics Board Other links: U.S. Department of State COVID-19 Crisis Page U.S. Centers for Disease for Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID – 19 Page Department of State Travel Advisory and

1 Nacpan Beach, El Nido

El Nido in Palawan is most famous for its paradise-like islands and lagoons, but a 45-minute ride away through a land tour from its main town takes you to another idyllic destination: Nacpan Beach. 

Island hopping escapades in El Nido including a visit to El Nido Big Lagoon should not be missed. But after a jam-packed day of visiting coves, white-sand beaches in El Nido, limestone cliffs, and other El Nido Palawan tourist spots a trip to relaxing Nacpan Beach is highly recommended, and it’s well worth a stop on your trip through El Nido.

The main attraction is its 4-kilometre shoreline with golden sand and endless palm trees lining up, perfect for just bumming around. Calitang Beach is on the other side, and the twin beaches are what is now known as the Twin Beaches of El Nido.

Swimming away from the beach in Nacpan is not advised, since currents can become powerful and rough without much notice.

2 Calle Crisologo, Vigan

Travel back in time as you stroll along the streets of Calle Crisologo in Vigan. This 16th-century town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist spot in the Philippines, quietly boasts old-world charm and Spanish colonial architecture and is the top attraction in Vigan, Ilocos tours. 

The historic area of Vigan, where calesas (horse-drawn carriages) may still be seen, has been well preserved. Sample the delicious Ilocos empanada and explore cobbled streets lined with souvenir shops selling ceramics and Abel Iloko weaves in Vigan among the several attractions to see and do.

3 Tubbataha Reef, Palawan

Tubbataha Reef is regarded as one of the top diving spots in the Philippines, and perhaps, the world. Located at the heart of the Sulu Sea, it is considered a centre of marine biodiversity and a haven not just for divers but marine conservationists as well. The only way to reach this marine park from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, is by booking a liveaboard cruise.

Since divers discovered Tubbataha in the late 1970s, it has become recognised as one of the most remarkable coral reefs on our planet. The CNN travel website, cnngo.com, ranks it among the top eight dive sites in the world.

Because of its isolated location, Tubbataha can only be visited on a liveaboard boat. Divers can experience the reefs’ dramatic underwater terrain, awe-inspiring biodiversity and encounter large marine animals such as sharks, turtles and manta rays.

Tubbataha is composed of two huge coral atolls – the north atoll and the south atoll – and the Jessie Beazley Reef, a smaller coral structure about 20 kilometres north of the atolls. The reefs of Tubbataha and Jessie Beazley are considered part of Cagayancillo, a remote island municipality roughly 130 kilometres to the northeast, inhabited mainly by fishermen.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is located 150 kilometres southeast of Puerto Princesa in the Philippines, in the heart of the Coral Triangle, which is known worldwide for its marine biodiversity. Tubbataha’s dive season lasts just three months, running from mid-March to mid-June. Diving conditions are usually excellent at this time of year

The isolation may be tough, but it is most likely what makes the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park so rich in some of the world’s most distinct aquatic life. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List and nominated for inclusion in the “New Seven Wonders of the Natural World.” Among the species that call Tubbataha home include reef sharks, manta rays, Napoleon wrasses, and more than half of all the world’s coral species. One of its islets is also a breeding site for birds and marine turtles whale sharks.

4 Chocolate Hills, Bohol

Included in the UNESCO World Heritage Natural Monuments list, the Chocolate Hills of Bohol are a geomorphic wonder and truly a sight to behold. The Chocolate Hills are one of the Philippines’ most spectacular natural attractions, with its 1,268 cone-shaped hills that turn chocolatey brown during the dry season, hence their name.

The limestone hills vary in size but almost look similar in shape and range from 30 to 120 meters in height. It’s a must-add in any itinerary for Bohol trips.

Make your way to the town of Carmen, where you can see the main view of the Chocolate Hills. Bohol countryside trips allow you to see additional natural wonders and enjoyable activities in Bohol, such as a relaxing Loboc river cruise and exploring Balicasag Island, an excellent diving location in the Mountain Province.

5 White Beach, Boracay

Boracay is a world-famous tourist destination for a reason – its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning sunsets, and excellent nightlife.

White Beach is the main beach on Boracay and stretches for almost 4 kilometres. It’s located on the western side of the island and is one of the most popular beaches in the Philippines. The beach gets its name from the powdery white sand that lines its shores. The sand is so fine that it feels like baby powder between your toes.

White Beach is definitely one of the best places to relax on Boracay. You can find all sorts of beach activities here, such

Cliche as it sounds, White Beach is truly postcard-perfect, with tall coconut trees lined up and crystal-clear calm waters rounding up its unmatched beauty, making it the top attraction in Boracay tours and the best tourist destination in the Philippines. Those wanting to pamper themselves during their holiday may do so, as Boracay is home to some of the Philippines’ best 5-star hotels, as well as several honeymoon resorts and some of the Philippines’ finest beach resorts. You may also work here.

There has been a recent increase in visitors to the island after years of being overshadowed by other Caribbean islands. Over the last decades, its prominence in international publications has attracted an influx of tourists. There is no shortage of hotels, restaurants, and pubs on the entire island now that it has discovered fame in the region and around the world.

6 Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao

The Banaue Rice Terraces are a series of terraces carved into the mountains of Ifugao in the Philippines by the ancient Ifugao people over 2000 years ago. The rice terraces are located about 2600 metres above sea level and cover more than 10, 360 hectares. They are said to be the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

The terraces are still in use today and are a major source of income for the local people. The terraces are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The mud-walled rice terraces in Banaue 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.

7 Mayon Volcano, Legazpi

Albay

Mayon Volcano is an active andesite stratovolcano in the province of Albay in the Philippines. It is the most perfect cone volcano in the world and has been declared a National Park.

Mayon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, with over 1 million visitors per year.

The most popular way to view Mayon is from the town of Legazpi, which is about 34 kilometres away. There are several viewing points in Legazpi where you can get a good view of the volcano.

Mayon Volcano is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines because of its perfect cone shape and its nearness to the town of Legazpi. From the town of Legazpi, you can get a good view of the volcano. The most popular way to view Mayon is from the Albay side. There are several viewing points in Legazpi where you can get a good view of the volcano.

8 Kawasan Falls, Cebu

for foodies. Tourist attractions in the town include the Punta de Santiago Lighthouse, St Anne Shrine, and the large local flower farm. 5. Cebu Flickr Cebu is an island province in the Philippines, consisting of the main island itself and 167 surrounding islands. Its capital, Cebu City, is a Place to Visit 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 and is often the jumping-off point for island-hopping trips to the other Visayan islands.

The province is also home to Kawasan Falls, a series of waterfalls located in the Badian municipality. The falls are a popular tourist destination and can be reached by a short drive or motorcycle ride from Cebu City If you like jumping into or swimming in cool cascading waters, Kawasan Falls in Cebu hits the sweet spot. It is a multi-layered waterfall in the town of Badian and is best known for its turquoise waters.

The first drop, or level, is where most tourists congregate, swim, and enjoy a bamboo raft’s natural water massage. A 10-minute trek uphill takes you to the quieter second fall.

The Kawasan Falls is also the finish of the popular adventure activity, the Kawasan Falls canyoneering tour package. This trip begins in Alegria and travels to Kawasan via streams, climbing natural rock walls and jumping off tiny waterfalls. The Moalboal River is located on the island’s northwest coast. Just north of Nalusag, in Tamuning, you can go diving with hundreds of millions of sardines. Moalboal is home to a renowned sardine run experience, where you can swim among millions of sardines. sardines just offshore.

9 Rizal Park, Manila

one of the largest city parks in the world. It is home to the Rizal Monument, which commemorates the country’s national hero, José Rizal. The park also contains a number of other monuments, as well as lakes and gardens.

Rizal Park is a popular tourist destination in Manila Manila is the capital, but nearby Quezon City is the country’s most populous city. Both are part of the National Capital Region (Metro Manila), located on Luzon, the largest island. The second-largest island of the Philippines in Mindanao, in the southeast. The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands. Manila is the capital of the Philippines, but many tourists bypass it and go to one of the other islands instead. However, a day or two in Manila to go on Manila tours is still advised for anybody seeking the finest places in the Philippines for a family holiday.

Manila is a bustling metropolis with its share of attractions, but it also has several historical sites. The Rizal Park, commonly known as Luneta, is one of them.

This 60-hectare urban park is where you will see the Rizal Monument, marking the execution site of the country’s national hero, Dr Jose Rizal. Manila Bay’s breeze keeps the Philippine flag waving from a 46-meter flagpole fronting his monument.

The park also features manicured gardens, ponds, and a wide water fountain that lights up and dances to Filipino tunes by sunset. The park area is also home to a network of National Museums that you can visit.

nearby Catanduanes Mountains, these beautiful formations rise from the ground and break into the sky, creating an iconic landscape. Especially around the Mayon Volcano. Oh and for a good cup of coffee, head to Pallet House just off Bicol’s Rizal Street. 5.) Boracay is a relatively small island but has quickly become one of the best places in the Philippines to visit.

That being said, recently, the government had to shut the island off from all visitors for over 6-months due rebuild the infrastructure on the island. Thankfully, the island has now reopened but there are a number of measures in place to help maintain the island’s beauty and prevent over-tourism. The island is known for its powdery white sand beaches, coral reefs, and crystal clear waters. It’s also a great place to party, with a number of bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning.

Mactan Island is where you head for luxurious relaxation! Housing many resorts, is one of the ideal places to visit in the Philippines for couples. With excellent diving spots, access to the shopping centres of Cebu City, and island hopping tours, it offers everything to honeymooners. Places To Stay: Appleton Boutique Hotel Cebu, Eloisa Royal Suites, Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino, Hidden Hill Hotel, Goldberry Suites and Hotel Places to visit: Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary, Carbon market, The Palace Casino Cebu, Talima, Lapu-Lapu

 10 Cloud 9, Siargao

Siargao’s rise as a top tourist destination in the Philippines is nothing short of meteoric. Once a sleepy island in Surigao del Norte, it has become one of the favourite destinations and playgrounds for travellers, and it is primarily because of one activity: surfing.

The Philippines’ surfing capital has been dubbed the “Surfing Capital of Asia,” and some regard it as the surfing mecca of Asia.

But there’s a lot more to Siargao than just surfing. With its long white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibe, it’s not hard to see why it has become one of the most popular places in the Philippines for a vacation. And with a growing number of resorts and restaurants, there’s something for everyone on this island.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, in the province of Romblon, lies the beautiful islands of Tablas, Carabao, and Linapacan.

Tablas is the largest of the three islands and is home to a diverse range of landscapes, from the rugged and verdant mountain ranges in the north to the white-sand beaches and coral reefs in the south.

There are also a number of historical sites, such as Fort San Andres in Alcantara, that are worth a visit. Tablas is also home to some of the best seafood in the country.

Exeter Places to Visit

Boracay Islandustain

of the places mentioned above are currently off-limits to tourists. Please check with your local travel agency for more information.

As the Philippines’ main island, Luzon is home to a wealth of tourist attractions that range from historical sites and natural wonders to beaches and resorts.

The capital city of Manila is home to a number of historical landmarks

Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues. 1. Boracay Boracay There is a reason that Boracay Island is considered the beach capital of the Philippines because there are more than 12 beaches. This tiny island in the west Visayas region is ideal for beach-goers who are after simple relaxation in the sun or water activities. White Beach, on the west side of the island, is one of the best beaches in the country and is where you’ll find the majority of resorts, hotels, shops, and restaurants. If you’re looking for a party atmosphere, then head to Diniwid Beach or Station 2.

Luzon Island

The rolling off-green hills and extensive cliffs make for great walking, especially around Chamantad Tiñan Cove (on Sabtang island). Make sure you visit the Honesty Coffee Shop while in town, it has some epic Philippino coffee. 12.) Luzon Island Based further north from Manila, is the stunning Cordillera Rice Terraces that are stunning to see. UNESCO World Heritage protected, this stunning area of Luzon is one of the best places in the Philippines to explore.

Burnham

enjoy some of the flora and fauna that are special to this region. Be sure to spend some time along Session Road, which is the main drag through Baguio, where you can take in a slice of local life. 11. Puerto Princesa Puerto Princesa The rock islands, caves, and natural parks of Palawan Island are the hidden paradise of the Philippines. The coastal city of Puerto Princesa is where you should base yourself in order to explore some of these natural gems of the country. The Subterranean River National Park is a great first stop to see a five-mile underground river and impressive limestone cave system. From there, it’s easy to explore the rest of the province and its many wonders. 10. Vigan City

Vigan City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few remaining examples of a well-preserved Spanish colonial town in Asia. The narrow streets, colonial architecture, and Calle Crisologo

 Siargao Island

fear not, as the island has plenty of white sand beaches and coral lagoons to explore, snorkel or just laze about in. Alternatively, hire a boat and spend the day at Guyam Island that almost looks too perfect. It really is paradise and one of the best places in the Philippines to see. Plus, Siargao Island has some of the freshest seafood around. Head to La Carinderia and order the grilled prawns, you won’t be disappointed. 8.) Bohol & Panglao Island Bohol was an island I’d always wanted to visit and I’m so glad we got to spend 6 days here on our last trip to the Philippines.  take some pesos for entrance fees. 3.) South Cotabato South Cotabato is known by the locals as the “land of the dream weavers and is a great stop-off before venturing off to the more remote islands. It really is one of the best places in the Philippines to visit

Angeles City

Angeles City is the party capital of the Philippines. It’s also home to Clark Airport, which is a major hub for budget airlines in the region. If you’re looking to let loose and have some fun, then this is the place for you. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to keep you busy. Just be warned, Angeles City can be a bit of a wild place. 7. Cebu City

Cebu is the oldest city in the Philippines and one of its most important commercial centres. It’s also the gateway to some of the best diving spots in the country. If you’re looking for an interesting mix of old and new, then

eagle For a city scene outside of Manila, head to Davao City, which has a large metropolitan area. Davao City is the main city in the southern Philippine region of Mindanao. Despite its malls and large population, Davao City features many natural elements, including the Eden Nature Park, Philippine Eagle Center, and the Davao Baywalk near the sea. One of the best places to visit in Davao City is Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines. Davao City is a prime location for shopping as there are several large malls, including Abreeza Mall and SM Lanang Premier Mall. For a peek into Davao City

Baguio City

sanctuary for the tiny Tarsier primate, known for its large engaging eyes. For a small fee, you can take an intimate walk through the grounds and stand inches away from the small nocturnal mammal. The showcase of Bohol is the beach. 3. Cebu Snorkeling with a whale shark The island of Cebu, in the central Visayas region, is considered the port to some of the best diving and snorkelling in the Philippines. If you are an underwater enthusiast, Cebu is one of your best options for excursions that get you up close to whale sharks, coral reefs, and sea turtles. Some of the most spectacular scenery from the water near

Apo Island Sea turtle in the waters off Apo Island If a swim with sea turtles sounds like the experience of a lifetime then you will want to head to Apo Island in the Philippines. The reason this location lends itself to swimming with turtles and other sea life is because of the protected marine sanctuary. The Apo Island Marine Reserve is where you can take guided trips to see the sea turtles up close and snorkel at the coral reefs. The island is an eco-traveller’s dream. The protected landscape is some of the most untouched in the country. For great views of the island and the water go to the Apo

Plan Your Ultimate Escape to the Philippines

It is impossible to visit all the best tourist spots in the Philippines in one go unless you have all the time in the world. But carefully planning out your Philippines itinerary will surely take you to some of the most unforgettable landscapes and fun-filled adventures you will ever see and experience.

Aside from its spectacular views, the Philippines is also home to one of the most hospitable, warm, and free-spirited people you will ever meet. Before you finalize your online trip booking or your Philippines holiday packages, read more of our Philippines travel guides to help you plan the ultimate escape and learn the reasons why you should visit the Philippines. 

So, whether you are looking for a beach destination, an adventure-filled destination, or a place where you can simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the Philippines, you will find what you are looking for here. With more than 7,000 islands to choose from, it is impossible not to find one (or more)