No doubt the Philippines are an incredible country, and one of the most beautiful places to visit in the world. And yet, there are so many wondrous spots to see and unforgettable sights to witness that the entirety can come to feel overwhelming. In a country so overflowing with potential places for touring, what are the best places to visit, and why all countries should you go to the Philippines?
Well, aside from culture, the Philippines provides some of the grandest beauty in all of Asia. Complete with holy sites, natural waterfalls and nature parks, museums that display the country’s history, and much, much more. Still, there’s much to choose from, so if you’re planning to go to the Philippines and sightsee, why not witness the very best and most beautiful tourist spots that there are on offer! Here are the most must-visit places in the Philippines.
The Chocolate Hills of Bohol
The chocolate hills are an insanely unique type of land formation that you’re not likely to see anywhere else in the world. Only in Bohol, a province in the Philippines that’s become renowned worldwide for its incredible coral reefs, the gorgeous array of isles and islands, and most notably the chocolate hills. These are a very odd, yet unbelievable land formation, spread over 50 square kilometers. At least 1,260 hills all rolling off across the horizon in sight so mind-blowing that you may not believe what you see at first.
The name derives from the Summer heat that warms the grassy mounds and makes them look brown, hence their name the ‘chocolate hills.’ Carmel is the best point for viewing the hills from an all-around angle. And is a trip wholly worth the experience given the uniqueness as the prestige of the natural wonder. Just be prepared to climb up a set of 200 steps! And definitely be sure to bring your camera – you’ll want to put this trip in a book of memories.
Manila City
The Philippine city of Manila is perhaps among the most urbanized in the entirety of the country. And to the traveler that values leisure and socialization over nature and green beauty, this is the perfect tourist spot. It’s one of the most visit places in the Philippines, thanks in large part to its array of cafes and restaurants, cool bars, and parks. And its history is not to be underestimated either!
It was a highly important city during the Spanish colonial period. And still retains much of the structures and old buildings that’d been constructed during that era, such as the San Agustin church, or the park-converted Fort Santiago. To call this anything but a thriving metropolis would be an inaccuracy, and yet it’s a metropolis that drips with irreplaceable culture and history.
Calle Crisologo, Vigan
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to wander through the Philippines during the 16th century? Witness the different eras of roads and architecture, take yourself to a place far lost in the past? You don’t have to picture it anymore, now you can see exactly that at Calle Crisologo in Vigan City. The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and still boasts some of the finest architecture brought about from the Spanish colonial period.
Horse-drawn carriages, cobbled streets, and an atmosphere of a time long past, this is likely the most romantic city in all of the Philippines. A perfect little getaway for lovers, families, or even friends seeking historic inspiration.
Nacpan Beach, El Nido
Found in the Northernmost parts of Palawan is the municipality of El Nido. Known widely for its gorgeous islands and unmatched, tropic-like beaches. Its most beautiful one by far has to be Nacpan beach. Be mindful that El Nido is a region best accessed if you’re willing to put up with a little driving during your tour. Though with waters this crystal clear, I’d say it’s all wholly worth it.
Nacpan beach on its own is an incredible, shiny crescent, but the Big Lagoon, Buena Suerte Beach, Caalan Beach, Corong Corong Beach, and others are all worthy of visits themselves! This is the perfect place to be for enthusiasts of beaches and sunshine. Spend your days at some of the most astonishing waters in the world, all at the courtesy of the unexpected allure of the Philippines.
Baguio City
The Summer Capital of the Philippines didn’t get its name by chance. This is renowned as one of the most often visited cities not only in the country but in the world. Tourist-friendly and full of resorts, this mountain town is not to be overlooked during your trip planning. From Burnham Park to the Baguio Cathedral, Mines View Park to ‘The Mansion,’ the City of Pines will find a way to keep any traveler entertained for weeks. A good chance both for leisure, as well as a little cultural education!
It’s also a relatively safe city, much like the rest of the Philippines. In fact, Filipinos are considered some of the friendliest people in the world! Safety for tourists is pretty much guaranteed, whether you go to Baguio or anywhere else!
Kawasan Falls, Cebu
Another great option for those travelers that can’t get enough of the water, or are just general lovers of swimming. Cebu City, in the Philippines’ Central Visayas region, is on its own as a miniature trip into the tropics. Not a bad option for tourists who want to see something beautiful! As it so happens, the multi-layered waterfalls of Cebu – the Kawasan Falls, can’t be called anything but that. A shiny site that you’ll remember for decades.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, Palawan
If you happen to have chosen the Palawan region for your stay in the Philippines, why not visit the UNESCO-protected Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park! Found in the mountain range of Saint Paul, it’s known to be the world’s longest navigable underground river. More of a trip for the adventurous traveler, and yet a phenomenal experience nonetheless!
Underground rivers are not a common experience one gets to come across. We would recommend giving this one a chance, whether or not you’re the adventurous sort!
Tubbataha Reef, Cagayancillo
By far, one of the best diving spots in the world. And another protected UNESCO heritage site, as well as a part of the Tubbataha reefs natural park! For good reason, as the reefs act like an entire ecosystem for fish and local sea life. It’s recommended that you dive between mid-March to mid-June to witness the twinkling beauty of these reefs, as that’s really the safest period!
The colors and unfathomable life beneath the waters is a rare though beautiful thing to witness. There may never be a better excuse to learn diving than this one!
The Mountain Province of Sagada
This is purely a trip for the adventurer or the sporty traveler. Hikes of all sorts, mountain treks across inspiring landscapes the likes of which you’ll only have seen in exaggerated movies, cliff climbing, and more! This is the reality you didn’t think possible, found in the Philippines. Admittedly if relaxation alone is what you’re looking for then this may not be the best spot for it, as there are many better places to find it! Such as the next option on our list…
Batanes Islands
The ten Batanes islands – all small, and with a surrounding of cliffsides and hillocks where animals are herded through the day. These are best viewed on an island-hopping trip, but should you choose to spend more time around these fascinating sites, you’ll find yourself wandering through small Philippine villages and taking in the awesome greenery. The three main islands of Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat ought to take special priority on any traveler’s itinerary!
Legazpi, Bicol
There is no place more picturesque, more breathtaking, and worthy of inspiring awe than the Mayon Volcano. Visible from Legazpi City in the Bicol region of the Philippines. Bicol is a region that encompasses the Southern parts of Luzon island. The still-active Mayon volcano is likely what the region is most famous for, and with a sight this magnificent, it’s no surprise that Legazpi City has become one of the most tourist-visited cities in all of the country.
The medicinal waters of the Tiwi Hot Springs National Park are definitely a place to check out if the scenic views and natural wonders don’t do it for you. There’s much to do in Legazpi City!
Taal Volcano and Lake
Taal Volcan and Taal Lake are among the most extraordinary sights available to tourists in the Philippines. And an absolute must-see if you’re thinking of visiting the lovely country. Found in the Batangas province, it’s the second-most active volcano in all of the Philippines. Relatively close to the metropolis of Manila, so it’s good for a day trip if that’s where you’re thinking of staying!
Take a trip to see the world’s smallest active volcano. Sitting on an island within alike, which also happens to be on an island. Unlike anything, you’ll have ever seen or heard of from anywhere else. Bizarre and intriguing, this is a trip that wouldn’t ever go amiss.
White Beach of Boracay
Found in the Visayas region of the Philippines, Boracay is an island in the Aklan province that’s mostly known for having one of the best beaches in the entire world – the White Beach. Four kilometers long, and with waters so white and pure that you’ll think you’re walking along the world’s longest stretch of snow.
It’s one of the most visit places in the Philippines. This is among the more popular beaches for visitors, so you may find it full of tourists. However, being so long as it is, you can easily find a nice and quiet spot to rest away the day and embrace the Philippine sun.
Cloud 9, Siargao
The teardrop-shaped island of Siargao, in the Philippine sea, is enough to fill up the schedule of any traveler. It’s an island you’ll find on every list of recommendations for the Philippines, as it’s simply an unmissable experience. It is often called the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, sometimes of all of Asia! The name alone, ‘Cloud 9,’ a popular surfing spot, means ‘Heaven’ or ‘Paradise.’
Whether you’re a fan of the surf or not, this is one of the ultimate relaxation spots. Amongst nature, the crystalline waters, the unmistakable leisure, you’ll find this island to be the ultimate tropical experience.
Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao
The spectacular sight of the Banaue Rice Terraces, which were carved into the mountainsides of Ifugao. It’s one of those experiences that stay with a person forever. Due in large part to the peculiar thought – just how was this accomplished? These terraces are occasionally referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World. And was carved in by the ancestors of the country’s indigenous people, some 2,000 years ago.
This is considered another UNESCO world heritage sight and can make your journey through the Philippines a truly complete one. There’s no other sight like it in the world, after all. If there were anyone spot that absolutely demands a visit from the curious tourist, it’s this one.
These were the fifteen most famous places to visit in the Philippines, and all for very good reason. Which is the best to visit may vary from person to person, depending on their interests, but all options should be explored! Even across 2021, these ought to be tourist spots worthy of a visit. As one of the safer countries in the world, you can always count on a trip to the Philippines to render yours a successful vacation.
Leave a reply