So you’re headed to the Philippines, and you’re not quite sure what to put on your itinerary? Don’t fret! The Philippines is truly peppered with many beautiful sights to see, scrumptious food to eat and so much warmth and hospitality, that it might be confusing for a first-time visitor to figure out which destinations to prioritize. But thankfully, your accommodation is sorted, for plenty of amazing options are available here - from eco hotels to kid-friendly resorts in the Philippines. Many beautiful attractions and activities await you in this majestic country. Check out these 15 best things to do in the Philippines.
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1. Visit the museum at Fort San Pedro
Located in Cebu City, the historic Fort San Pedro is a landmark from the colonial past of the Philippines. The fort was established in the 16th century by Miguel López de Legazpi, the first governor of the Spanish-ruled Captaincy General of the Philippines, and served as a military defense stronghold for the first colonial settlement in the country. In the intervening years, the fort had been used as a rebel base, military barracks, public offices, and even a zoo. Visitors today can learn more about landmark’s history at the small museum located on the fort’s grounds, and meander through the picturesque walled garden.
Fort San Pedro
Address: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
2. Admire picturesque panoramas at Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park
Marvel at the amazing scenery of Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park. This beautiful landscape of twin crater lakes and lush forest is located near Dumaguete and is a wonderful recreation area. Rent a kayak or paddle board and spend your day skimming the clear water of the lakes, hike along the verdant, mountainside trails, or go bird-watching and scan the skies for the area’s 114 species of local fowl. There is also an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy your meal while admiring the wondrous lake scenery.
Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park
Address: Sibulan, Negros Oriental, Philippines
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
3. Hike to Hulugan Falls
With its thunderous cascade of sparkling water and lush forest setting, Hulugan Falls is a marvelous sight to behold. This waterfall is massive, with a cataract pouring from 235 feet (72 meters) overhead. Visitors can even take a dip in the pool of cool water at the cascade’s base. Two hiking trails lead to the falls, and it is necessary to engage a tour guide at the Barangay Captain’s House. This magnificent attraction is located in Barangay San Salvador in Luisiana. In addition to Hulugan Falls, you can also stop at Talay Falls and Hidden Falls along the way, two smaller but no less beautiful waterfalls.
Hulugan Falls
Address: Luisiana, Laguna, Philippines
4. Step back in time at Tabon Caves
Renowned at the “Cradle of Civilization,” Tabon Caves in Puerto Princesa is a unique and beautiful historical sight that boasts an astounding collection of archaeological finds. On this guided excursion, you get to explore the wondrous cave systems and learn more about the area’s incredible history and astounding discoveries like the skullcap of the oldest confirmed modern human! You also get to admire the magnificent limestone formations and natural scenery from a boat tour. Additionally, the tour includes lunch and round-trip transportation in Palawan.
Book Tours : Tabon Cave Excursion in Puerto Princesa - Klook
5. Snorkel at Looc Fish Sanctuary
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
For an unforgettable underwater adventure Looc Fish Sanctuary in Romblon is a must-see. This protected marine area encompasses a beautiful coral reef and is home to a rich biodiversity of underwater creatures. Swim through huge schools of reef fish, snorkel past colorful coral formations, or watch feeding demonstrations from the sanctuary’s floating hut. The sanctuary’s pontoon also has tables set up so you can enjoy a picnic. Some snorkeling gear is available to rent.
Looc Fish Sanctuary
Address: Poblacion, Looc, Romblon 5507 Looc, Philippines
Website: Looc Fish Sanctuary
Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)
6. Pose with the marvelous murals at Art in Island
Marvel at the staggering works in Asia’s largest 3D art museum! Art in Island: 3D Interactive Art Museum is located in Quezon City perfect for a day of family-filled fun. As its name suggests, this stellar museum is filled with unique works that seem to leap off the walls (and floor and ceilings)! Guests can pose with all the works and take plenty of mind-boggling pictures throughout the museum’s 12 zones. There is also a café and souvenir store on site.
Traveler's tips
This is an interactive museum. Most of the artworks here are unique and cannot be found anywhere else. You'll surely enjoy taking a lot of pictures here for a good laugh, because I did. Make sure to wear socks and comfortable shoes when visiting the museum so you don't have to rent or buy socks to enter the property.
7. Stroll through Rizal Park
Sprawling Rizal Park is one of Manila’s most famous landmarks. The park, which is also known as Luneta Park, contains beautiful open lawns, paved walking trails, and public museums. Another interesting fact about this park is it has been the site of many historic moments. The park is named after Filipino patriot José Rizal, whose execution at this site led to the Filipino uprising for independence from the Spanish. Also, the park commemorates other important historic figures through public monuments. With its gorgeous fountains and ornamental gardens, Rizal Park is a pleasant place to enjoy a stroll or take in a concert at one of the many public music venues.
Rizal Park
Address: Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
Opening hours: 5am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
8. Enjoy the superb attractions at Manila Ocean Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Dive into a good time at Manila Ocean Park! This outstanding, family-friendly attraction combines endless entertainment and education. It showcases the awe-inspiring array of sea creatures that can be found in Southeast Asia. Manila Ocean World is home to over 14,000 marine creatures and includes stellar exhibits that will take your breath away like the 220-degree curved walkway tunnel where you can watch sea creatures drift above your head. In addition to the aquarium exhibits, the park offers a number of unique attractions, including the Augmented Reality Encounter, a bird show, a sea lion show, and more.
Manila Ocean Park
Address: Quirino Grandstand, 666 Behind, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, Philippines
Website: Manila Ocean Park
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 6pm
Price: From 570 PHP (12 USD)
9. Encounter history at Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum
Learn more about Filipino history at Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum. This landmark was the ancestral home of Emilio Aguinaldo, who served as the first President of the Philippines. The site is also where the Philippine Declaration of Independence was declared in 1898. Today, it houses an extensive museum, where guests can explore a number of terrific exhibits that cover topics such as the life of Emilio Aguinaldo, the revolution against Spain, and the Philippines’ war against the United States. The site also features traditional furnishings and decorative pieces and has a beautiful garden to explore. The museum is located in Kawit and is open daily.
Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum
Address: Kawit, 4104 Cavite, Philippines
Website: Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum
Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)
10. Catch the sunset from Manila Baywalk
Stroll along Manila Baywalk and enjoy wonderful panoramas of the Philippines’ capital city. This expanse of seaside promenade spans Roxas Boulevard and stretches from Rizal Park to Cultural Center of the Philippines. It offers wonderful views across Manila Bay. The trail is just over a mile (2 kilometers) long, with many eateries are situated along the promenade. Manila Baywalk is a scenic stretch no matter the time of day but it’s a particularly beautiful spot to enjoy the sunset.
Manila Baywalk
Address: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines
Opening hours: 5am - 12:30am (daily)
Price: Free
11. Party in Boracay
One of the Philippines’ more popular beaches and tourist spots, Boracay is never a bore when it comes to hosting the best parties. Its white sand beaches, beautiful sunsets and lively atmosphere prove to be a great backdrop to its amazing nightlife. You can visit its many bars and restaurants, or even go partying in any one of Boracay’s clubs by the beach, or go for a Pub Crawl to meet new people and hop around different Boracay clubs and bars. With a cocktail in hand, sand under your feet and a beat that electrifies, Boracay is truly one of the best places to party here in the Philippines.
Boracay
Address: Boracay, Malay, Philippines
Website: Boracay Guide
Traveler's tips
Boracay is known for its nightlife, from watching fire dancers to joining a pub crawl. On our vacation there, we went to Epic Boracay. It has a gate fee that includes two alcoholic drinks. If you want a table, it will cost you more, but it's consumable and great if you're going with a group, like we did. It was a night of fun, dancing, good music, and a lot of drinks, which made me not function well the next day. So I recommend that you drink moderately if you have tours to join the next morning.
12. Hike Mt. Pulag
If you’re wondering what to do in the Philippines, how about hiking Mt. Pulag? The third tallest mountain in the Philippines, Mt. Pulag is famous for the enchanting view travelers get upon reaching the top: a sea full of clouds, so close that it feels like you can hop on one and just ride through the sky. If you think this is breathtaking in itself, wait for the sunrise - because of its high altitude, Mt. Pulag lets its dwellers see a sunrise with a myriad of colors, unlike any other. You can hike Mt. Pulag for a minimal entrance fee of PHP 100 (2.00 USD), and camp at the site for PHP 50 (1.00 USD).
Mt. Pulag
Address: Mount Pulag, Kabayan, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines
Price: from 2.00 USD
13. Fill your tummy with tasty dishes at Lechon at Zubuchon
It’s a common joke among Filipinos that you leave the Philippines a dozen pounds heavier than you enter, and this is with good reason: Filipinos not only love to eat good food, but we also love to serve good food to our guests. And though the Philippines has a lot of tasty dishes (like the Sinigang, Kare-Kare, and Adobo), Cebu Lechon is definitely one of the top crowd favorites. Eating lechon is a must-do in the Philippines. Try out Zubuchon - a restaurant that has branches in both Cebu and Manila - and go for their healthier take on the classic Lechon. Even more impressive, Anthony Bourdain ate here and said it was the “best pig ever”!
Lechon at Zubuchon
Address: Talisay Street, San Antonio, Makati City
Price: from 10 USD per kilo
Opening Hours: 10am - 10pm
Website: Zubuchon
Traveler's tips
Cebu Lechon is, in my opinion, superior to other lechons in the Philippines. It has a distinct taste that you can only experience when you're eating lechon in Cebu, so I suggest that you make it your main mission when in Cebu to taste the local lechon. Also, it is best paired with their puso rice, which is basically rice wrapped in coconut leaves and shaped into a triangular form.
14. Go "malling" at SM Megamall
If you’ve ever been to the Philippines, you might have noticed that there’s a mall on just about every corner. In fact, malls are so common that we’ve already invented a term for going to the mall: “malling.” “Malling” is one of the most well-known Filipino past times, and if you find that you have a spare day without any itinerary, you can go to SM Megamall and spend hours going through the department store, exploring the restaurants and food courts, going ice skating, watching a movie or bowling!
SM Megamall
Address: Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines
Opening Hours: 10am-10pm.
Website: SM Megamall
Traveler's tips
SM Mega Mall is my favorite branch of SM in the country because it is very accessible from where I live. Though it is big, I know where my favorite shops are. For shopping, they have the usual Zara, Uniqlo, H&M, Mango, and the like. But the biggest plus is that it offers many activities, including archery, baking, ice skating, bowling, and the like.
15. Go island-hopping on the Hundred Islands
"Few from Hundreds" (jeff-euro photography)
Posted by Jeffrey Espiritu Eurolfan on Friday, 27 January 2017
One of the top things to do in the Philippines is to go island-hopping. The Philippines is composed of more than 7000 islands, and Hundred Islands gives you a taste of what it’s like to explore some of those unique islands. You can go snorkeling, check out the different islands, go kayaking, and even eat fresh seafood while you’re at it! And as a bonus, going island-hopping through Hundred Islands doesn’t hurt the pocket at all: there’s only a small PHP 40 (0.80 USD) entrance fee, and you only have to pay whatever boat fee you agree on, on top of that.
Island-hopping on the Hundred Islands
Address: Alaminos, Pangasinan, Philippines
Price: from 0.80 USD
16. Attend a fiesta
The Philippines is a strongly Catholic country, and as such, regularly pays homage and worships various saints through festivals, all year-round. Some of the more notable ones include the Masskara Festival, and of course, the Sinulog Festival. When in the Philippines, try catching Sinulog, a city-wide festival in Cebu with colorful floats, creative dancing, great food, and a contagious street party vibe! Sinulog typically happens in January, so if your trip is scheduled around then, you’re in luck!
Sinulog Festival
Address: Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
Website: Sinulog Festival
Traveler's tips
Aside from Sinulog Festival, the Philippines is home to a lot of other festivals all over the country. Each city, town, municipality and province has their own festival, which usually happen during Fiesta Celebrations. One festival I recommend you to check out is the Tawo-Tawo festival from the City of Bayawan in Negros Oriental. It is a lively and colorful festival, that is a form of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. Tawo-Tawo means Person-Person or we simply translate this as a scarecrow, as this symbolizes a guard that drives the birds away during rice season.
Traveler's tips
Every town in the Philippines has its own fiesta. The fiesta in each town is always in honor of a saint, Sto. Niño, and the Virgin Mary. In my town, we have the fiesta of St. John the Baptist because he is known as the baptizer, so you can expect water to be part of the celebration. For those who don't want to go home drenched in water, I suggest you stay indoors during the celebration and just taste the many food prepared by the host.
17. Marvel at the Underground River
How can a river possibly flow underground? The Philippines has many curious natural gems, and the Underground River in Palawan is surely one of them. Palawan’s underground river is one of the 7 wonders of nature, what with its majestic rock formations, caves and waterfalls. What’s more, you don’t need to spend a lot to see it either - entrance fee is PHP 175 (3.50 USD) for local adults, PHP 250 (5.00 USD) for foreign tourists, and there’s a small environmental fee of PHP 40 (0.80 USD).
Underground River
Address: Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines
Price: from 4.30 USD
Website: Underground River
18. Visit the Banaue Rice Terraces
Dubbed as the 8th wonder of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Banaue Rice Terraces is a mountain made into stairs to accommodate a vast field of rice. This site is one of the top things to see in the Philippines. This natural gem is worthy of the name, and seeing it up close and personal is a very different experience from just seeing it on your usual postcard. Here, you can take photos, learn about the local culture, and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
Banaue Rice Terraces
Address: Nueva Vizcaya - Ifugao - Mountain Province Rd, Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines
Price: from 1.00 USD entrance fee
Website: Banaue Rice Terraces
19. Pick fresh strawberries in Baguio
Baguio is known to be one of the coldest places in the Philippines, but aside from that, there are many things one can do in Baguio, like horseback-riding and visiting Burnham Park. It’s also only in Baguio where you can get strawberry “taho,” a local delicacy made of soy, pearls, and strawberry syrup, and it’s because Baguio is one of the best places - if not the best place - to get fresh and juicy strawberries. So, if you want to tickle your tastebuds or maybe make some strawberry jam, head on over to breezy Baguio!
Baguio
Address: Baguio City, Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region, Philippines
Website: Baguio City
Traveler's tips
If Canada has apple picking, we have strawberry picking here. It is a delightful activity compared to just buying them at the many stalls in the public market. You can guarantee they're fresh and have a longer shelf life, especially if you're bringing them back to your hometown. The people in charge gave us a basket and scissors to help with the picking, and when we were done, they weighed it, and then we knew how much to pay for everything.
20. Surfing in Baler
If you’re looking for adventure in clear blue waters, you might want to check out surfing in Baler. Baler is one of the best places to go in the Philippines for a surf trip, and people here are very welcoming, so if you don’t know how to surf, they’ll teach you in a heartbeat. Baler also houses some of the quirkiest hostels that host foreigners and locals, surfers and non-surfers alike, and also has other tourist destinations, like the Diguisit Falls.
Baler
Address: Baler, Aurora, Philippines
Website: Baler
21. See the stunning beauty of Chocolate Hills and Loboc River
The best way to see the stunning natural beauty of Bohol region of the Philippines is by going on a private tour. And with this tour, you can spend an enjoyable day exploring the best sights of Bohol like Manmade Mahogany Forest, a beautiful 16th-century Baclayon Church, Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary, and the world-renowned Chocolate Hills. The tour also includes a relaxing cruise on Loboc River where you will also be served a scrumptious lunch.
Traveler's tips
How about viewing Chocolate Hills from below? Yes, you can do that by going on an an ATV and Buggy adventure ride. This is another way of experiencing and viewing the Chocolate Hills. I personally enjoyed this two-in-one adventure, riding the ATV and viewing the Chocolate Hills from a different perspective.
Traveler's tips
I love Bohol for its chill vibe, like if you're there, life is slow, and it's okay. But if you're visiting to see the many tourist attractions, you really have to plan your itinerary because there are lots of things to see and experience, such as viewing the Chocolate Hills from two vantage points: the observation deck and the hill's base through riding an ATV.
22. Explore Intramuros on a bamboo bike
An eco-friendly way of seeing the best sights of Manila’s Intramuros district is via this unique bamboo bike tour. Choose a bike that suits your style and size, and led by your friendly local guide, explore all the historic sights of this beautiful area. See Puerta Real Gardens, Puerta del Parian gate, Plaza Roma, Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and more. End your tour with a tasty Filipino snack.
Traveler's tips
Puerta Rea is a significant landmark that offers a glimpse into the country's colonial past.
To fully enjoy Puerta Real, consider these tips:
1. Historical Exploration: Begin your visit with a stroll through the gate, taking in its impressive architecture. Intramuros is rich in history, so explore the well-preserved Spanish-era buildings, churches, and museums.
2. Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the area's history. Knowledgeable guides can provide fascinating stories and historical context.
3. Fort Santiago: Don't miss Fort Santiago. It's a key attraction offering more historical exhibits, beautiful gardens, and scenic views of the Pasig River.
Book Tours : Experience Intramuros with Bamboo Bicycle - Ecotours
23. Swim, snorkel and explore El Nido, Palawan
One of the must-see spots in the Philippines is El Nido, Palawan. And the most relaxing way to see this picturesque region is with this island-hopping tour. See five different islands and explore their various attractions like hidden beaches, lagoons, caves, shrines, and more. Swim, snorkel, explore, sunbathe and click pictures of the awe-inspiring limestone mountains. A delicious lunch is also provided on this tour.
Tip from tour guide
Planning an island hopping tour in El Nido? Tour A is a must-do experience in El Nido, offering a perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. It is one of the most popular island-hopping tours in El Nido. Here's what you can expect on Tour A.
1. Small Lagoon is a hidden gem accessible through a small opening. Once inside, you'll be surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear water.
2. Big Lagoon is known for its turquoise waters and dramatic limestone formation. You can kayak or swim in its calm waters while marveling at the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you.
3. Secret Lagoon is another highlight of tour A. To reach this hidden paradise, you'll need to swim through a small opening in the rocks.
4. Shimizu Island: You can relax, soak up the sun, and take in the beautiful views of the crystal-clear water.
Book Tours : El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with Lunch
24. Swim with whale sharks in Cebu - Oslob
If swimming with whale sharks has always been on your bucket list, then you can check that off during your trip to Cebu in the Philippines. Cebu-Oslob is well-known for its whale shark experience, where visitors can go swimming with these gentle giants of the ocean. And in this tour, besides swimming with whale sharks, you will also get a chance to experience the natural beauty of Cebu. See the impressive Kawasan and Tumalog Falls, capture stunning pictures or dip your toes in the cool water.
25. Have fun in the water at Mapupungko Beach and Sugba Lagoon
One of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, Siargao Island, is certainly worth a visit. With this tour, you can see two amazing sites on this island - Sugba Lagoon and Mapupungko Beach. The turquoise blue lagoon is home to amazing wildlife, a harmless species of jellyfish, colorful corals, and more. Go paddleboarding, snorkeling or swimming in the calm waters of Sugba lagoon. At Mapupungko Beach, swim in two natural pools and see the amazing rock formations.
26. Head to the summit of Kanlaon Volcano
Contributed by Content Creator, Rex Lim Lim
Source: Rex Lim Lim
There’s this strange feeling when capturing surreal landscapes such as the crater of Mount Kanlaon. Ever since I first saw photos of this volcano, I’d promised myself that I would set foot on its crater one day. Years later, although it took that long, I finally did it after a 12-hour ascent. I was wheezing heavily from all the sulfur I’d inhaled, and my body was sore from the trek. But as I stood on the edge, slow triumphant music started playing in my mind, and everything, including time, ground to a halt. Because of this, I can say that it is an experience worth having.
27. Explore the hidden Bale Batu
Contributed by Content Creator, Rex Lim Lim
Nestled along the slopes of the solitary Mt. Arayat lies the Bale Batu. This mysterious stone house, which showcases Kapampangan ingenuity and creativity, was built by the late Apung Susing for over four decades. While you’re here, check if you can climb onto the roof of house for unique photos.
28. Bathe in Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring
Contributed by Content Creator, Rex Lim Lim
South of the geothermally active Leonard Kniaseff Volcano lies a unique waterfall fed with sulfuric hot spring waters. Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring in Maco, Compostella Valley, is a breathtaking nature spot in Mindanao. Too bad it was closed by PHIVOLCS when we visited, so we contented ourselves with a relaxing massage downstream. Sweet!
29. Watch the rushing water at Badi Falls
Contributed by Content Creator, Rex Lim Lim
Benguet still never fails to surprise us, especially with spots such as Badi Falls of Barangay Sagubo. The journey to see the rushing water might not be for the faint-hearted, and it required us to go down steep mountain trails. It was around 900 meters of descent near Gadang and Bagulin in La Union. The opportunity to witness its sheer beauty and clear shallow pools makes this a promising adventure.
30. Go on a thrilling hike to Casaroro Falls
Contributed by Content Creator, Maria Luisa Oliver
Source: Maria Luisa Oliver
Casaroro Falls is a single-drop waterfall in Valencia, and it is also the region’s most photographed waterfall! To reach the falls, you just have to hike down a few hundred stairs and then go on a short river trek. It usually only takes about 16 minutes to reach this waterfall. Note that you’ll have to pay PHP 250 (USD 4.47) for the tour guide and PHP 20 (USD 0.36) for the property pass so that you can get to the falls.
Do something different in the Philippines
When in the Philippines, it’s rare to see an itinerary filled with the same thing over and over again - and that’s because the Philippines is simply filled with so many sights to see, food to eat, and things to do, that you will most likely run out of time before you run out of bucket list items! For the full Philippine experience, try out many different things across the different regions of the Philippines. You might just surprise yourself with how beautiful the country truly is!
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