18 Best Places to Visit in The Philippines
The Philippines is a country with an abundance of natural wonders and breathtaking scenery. With 7,641 islands, deciding which destinations to visit can be overwhelming. However, fear not, as this article has compiled a list of the 18 most beautiful places in the Philippines that will leave you in awe.
This list covers many must-see tourist spots, from the perfect cone-shaped Mayon Volcano in Albay Province, the stunning White Beach in Boracay, and the historic Shipwreck Diving sites of Coron, Palawan. Whether you’re into adventure, history, or simply relaxing on the beach, the Philippines has something for everyone. So, sit back and prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty of this archipelago.
Mayon Volcano, Albay Province
Mayon Volcano is a perfect cone-shaped active volcano in Albay Province, Philippines. It is considered one of the must-see destinations in the country. Visitors can track or climb the volcano’s viewpoint, but there are precautions. Only limited hikers are allowed to go around near Mayon. For those not into trekking, it is highly recommended to try the ATV adventure, where they can also get closer to the volcano.
There are a lot of destinations in Albay where visitors can see the beauty of Mayon Volcano. They can visit Sumlang Lake to see the whole picture of Mayon while kayaking. There’s also Mayon Rest House, where they can have a bird’s eye view of the places below and see the volcano clearly.
Manila
Explore the vibrant city of Manila and discover all the exciting activities and attractions it has to offer! Visit Intramuros, a historic walled city with fascinating landmarks and attractions like Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila.
Step back in time and pay homage to the national hero, Jose Rizal, at Rizal Park, which features monuments, gardens, and other attractions. Learn more about the country’s art, culture, and history at the National Museum, with exhibits from pre-colonial times to the modern era.
Shop ’til you drop at Divisoria, a bustling market known for its affordable prices and wide selection of products. Get your groove on at the many bars, clubs, and entertainment venues that make up Manila’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Finally, experience the grandeur of the Mall of Asia, one of the world’s largest shopping malls with hundreds of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
White Beach, Boracay
If you’re looking for a tropical paradise to escape to, look no further than Boracay Island in the Visayan region of the Philippines. This world-renowned travel destination has powdery white sand and pristine beaches, including the iconic White Beach, which is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world.
Take a boat tour around the island and explore the nearby coves and beaches. Rent an ATV and explore the island’s lush forests and scenic trails. Enjoy thrilling water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and jet skiing.
Take a sunset cruise and enjoy the stunning views of the island. Sample the delicious local and international cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Filipino dishes. Experience the vibrant nightlife scene with bars and clubs offering live music and entertainment.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, Boracay is the perfect destination for you!
Coron, Palawan
Coron in Palawan is a well-known destination for shipwreck diving enthusiasts. The area is home to numerous historical shipwrecks from World War 2, making it a popular spot for those interested in Filipino history.
Aside from shipwreck diving, Coron offers other popular activities, such as snorkeling and kayaking. Visit Maquinit Hot Springs for a relaxing dip after a day of hiking and enjoying water activities. Maquinit Hot Springs is the only saltwater hot spring in the Philippines and one of the few worldwide, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Siargao Island
Siargao Island in the Philippines is a popular tourist destination, particularly for surfers. There are several reasons to visit Siargao, including its reputation as the “surfing capital of the Philippines,” with popular surf spots like Cloud 9. However, the island offers more than just surfing, with stunning natural beauty, white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and a relaxed island vibe.
The island offers beautiful natural scenery, pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and a laid-back island vibe, making it an excellent destination for relaxation and adventure.
Puerto Princesa Underground River
The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour is a unique experience that takes visitors through dark caves and emerald waters. This awe-inspiring place is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Portal and popularly known as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
The Puerto Princesa Underground River was declared one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2012.
Visitors can take a boat ride through the underground river and explore its natural wonders. The underground river is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bats, monkeys, monitor lizards, and swiftlets.
The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the natural wonders of the Philippines.
Caramoan Peninsula
Caramoan Peninsula is a beautiful destination in the Philippines, known for its stunning islands with fantastic rock formations and incredibly white and fine sand. Aside from the scenery, visitors can also enjoy snorkeling and trying the local delicacies in the restaurants in the area.
Caramoan Peninsula is a great place to relax and unwind, offering a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a popular tourist spot that attracts both local and foreign visitors. With its beautiful scenery and activities, it is no wonder why the Caramoan Peninsula is one of the top tourist spots in the Philippines.
Banaue Rice Terraces
The Banaue Rice Terraces is one of the most impressive and unique tourist destinations in the Philippines. These rice terraces are more than 2,000 years old and are considered the oldest in the region. What makes them even more impressive is that they were carved by hand, without the use of modern machinery.
The rice terraces are located in the mountainous region of Ifugao and are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the indigenous people who built them. The terraces are built into the mountains’ sides and designed to capture and distribute water throughout the fields.
Visitors can also hike through the terraces and witness the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Pagsanjan Falls, Laguna
Pagsanjan Falls is a must-visit destination in Laguna, Philippines. It stands approximately 300 feet tall and is surrounded by tropical landscapes, making it a breathtaking sight to behold.
Visitors can take a thrilling boat ride to the falls, swim in the crystal clear pools, and even go behind the falls for a unique experience.
Pagsanjan Falls is a popular destination for local and foreign tourists, and it’s easy to see why. The natural beauty of the falls and its surroundings make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Philippines.
Vigan City
Vigan City is a historic and traditional city located in the province of Ilocos Sur in the northern part of the Philippines. The city is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture that dates back to the 16th century. The brick streets in the Calle Crisologo give the city a pre-colonial ambiance that takes visitors back in time.
Visitors to Vigan City can explore the city by riding a horse-drawn carriage or “kalesa.” The city also offers a variety of souvenir items, such as bags, pottery, and baskets, at reasonable prices.
Overall, Vigan City is a must-visit destination for those interested in experiencing the rich history and culture of the Philippines.
Kayangan Lake, Palawan
Described as a dreamy mix of blues and greens, the stunning Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan, is a must-see destination for any traveler. Its crystal clear waters provide a window into the exotic underwater rock formations, making it one of the most incredible places on Earth.
Visit Kayangan Lake, and you’ll be surrounded by the majestic jagged limestone cliffs and islets that make up its dramatic landscape. For the best view, climb the 10-minute uphill, stop by the viewpoint, and take in the breathtaking scenery. Interestingly, the view from the hill is not of the actual lake but the area where the tour boats park – yet it’s still awe-inspiring.
This picturesque lagoon glistens under the bright sun, and it’s no wonder it’s considered the cleanest lake in the Philippines and one of the most photographed destinations. Make sure to add this majestic spot to your Coron Palawan itinerary and prepare to be mesmerized by its beauty.
Hinatuan Enchanted River
Hinatuan Enchanted River is one of Mindanao’s most beautiful places to visit. Located in Surigao del Sur, this river is known for its enchanting atmosphere and magical clear blue saltwater river. The river is surrounded by lush green sceneries and keeps visitors away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Hinatuan Enchanted River is a popular tourist destination that offers many activities, such as kayaking, fishing, swimming, and boating. Visitors can also explore the nearby San Augustine’s Church, one of the city’s famous landmarks and attractions.
Bantayan Island, Cebu
Bantayan Island is a beautiful destination located in the province of Cebu. It is known for its pristine beaches like Kota Beach and Virgin Island, some of the country’s most beautiful beaches.
Tourists can indulge in various activities on the island, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The island’s crystal-clear waters provide a perfect environment for these activities. Visitors can also explore the island’s rich culture and history by visiting its many historical sites and landmarks.
Bantayan Island is a perfect destination for those who want to relax and unwind in a beautiful and peaceful environment. The island’s stunning scenery and serene atmosphere make it ideal for a holiday or weekend getaway.
Kawasan Falls, Cebu
Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls in Cebu, Philippines. This multi-layered waterfall in the town of Badian is a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Not only is it perfect for swimming and relaxing, but the popular activity of Kawasan Falls canyoneering is an unforgettable experience.
This tour starts in the Kanlaob River in Alegria and takes you on a journey of swimming, rappelling, and jumping off mini-waterfalls. At the first cascade, which is 40 meters high, visitors can enjoy a natural water massage on board a bamboo raft. A 10-minute trek takes you up to the quieter second cascade, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the lush greenery and peaceful surroundings.
Nearby, several food stalls and restaurants offer a variety of local dishes, such as grilled seafood, barbecued pork, and fresh fruit. Add Kawasan Falls to your bucket list and experience the ultimate adventure!
Chocolate Hills, Bohol
Bohol’s Chocolate Hills is a wonder of the island with a rich history. The incredible story about Chocolate Hills is that it was once underwater and emerged above the ground after hundreds of thousands of years. It is composed of 1,200 small hills with illuminating green and chocolate-brown colors most of the time during the dry season.
Aside from the beautiful scenery of Chocolate Hills, visitors can also find themselves smiling, looking at the delicate flowers along the way. The hills are a popular tourist spot in Bohol, and visitors can take a scenic drive or hike up to one of the viewpoints to get a panoramic view of the hills.
Adventure activities like zip-lining, ATV rides, and mountain biking are also available. The Chocolate Hills are a must-visit destination in Bohol, and visitors will surely be in awe of the natural beauty of this unique landscape.
Taal Volcano, Talisay
Talisay town is known for its proximity to Taal Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. Despite the risks associated with the volcano, visitors can still tour around the crater and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the main crater lake.
However, precautions must be taken, and warnings should be heeded if required. It is highly recommended to consider a tour organizer for a well-planned trip.
El Nido, Palawan
El Nido is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines. It is a popular tourist spot that offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular activities in El Nido is climbing the cliff on Taraw. This climb is considered the most challenging in the area, with climbers reaching heights of up to 750 feet. Visitors who climb are rewarded with a 360-degree view from the top.
Aside from climbing the cliff, visitors to El Nido can enjoy the beautiful beaches and other tourist spots in the area. The town of El Nido is known for its friendly and welcoming people, making it a great destination for those looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation.
Batanes
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Batanes, a group of islands in the northernmost part of the Philippines. From its stunning landscapes and seascapes to its traditional stone houses, lighthouses, and beaches, Batanes is a paradise that will leave you in awe.
Take a hike or rent a bike to explore the hills and cliffs that offer a picturesque view of the vast ocean and the greenery that covers the islands. Admire the traditional stone houses built to withstand the strong winds and typhoons that often hit the islands.
Countless breathtaking destinations are waiting to be explored in the Philippines, each offering unique charm and attractions. This country has something special for every traveler, from the mesmerizing rock formations and unspoiled beaches of El Nido to Batanes’s inviting landscapes and seascapes. No matter where your journey takes you in the Philippines, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
So, it’s time to pack your bags and prepare for an adventure in this remarkable land. We’re curious – which of these captivating Philippine tourist destinations will you explore first? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Read: Mayon ATV Challenge: Experience Mayon Volcano Lava Trail ATV Adventure