The Top 10 Places to Go in the Philippines

The Philippines stands as one of Southeast Asia's most spectacular destinations, an archipelago of over 7,600 islands offering extraordinary diversity from pristine beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs to ancient rice terraces and vibrant cultural centres. This tropical paradise combines natural wonders with rich Spanish and indigenous heritage, creating experiences that range from relaxing island escapes to adventurous expeditions through remote wilderness.

According to the Philippine Department of Tourism, the country welcomed over 8 million international visitors in 2019, drawn by world-class diving, unique geological formations, endemic wildlife, and the warmth of Filipino hospitality. From the limestone karsts of Palawan to the chocolate hills of Bohol, the Philippines offers phenomenal destinations that rival any in the world.

Pristine tropical beach in the Philippines with turquoise waters and palm trees

1. Palawan

Palawan consistently ranks among the world's most beautiful islands, with dramatic limestone karst formations, crystal-clear lagoons, and some of Asia's finest beaches. This long, slender island province extends between the South China Sea and Sulu Sea, encompassing over 1,700 smaller islands including the renowned Bacuit Archipelago around El Nido and the stunning Coron region.

Major Attractions: El Nido's limestone cliffs tower 200 metres above turquoise lagoons, creating postcard-perfect scenery accessible by traditional bangka boats. The Underground River in Puerto Princesa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, flows 8.2 kilometres through a cave system with spectacular rock formations. Coron's Japanese shipwrecks from World War II create world-class diving sites, whilst Coron Island's Kayangan Lake offers swimming in crystal-clear freshwater surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

Activities: Island hopping tours reveal hidden lagoons, secret beaches, and snorkelling spots teeming with marine life. Diving in Coron exposes pristine coral reefs and historic shipwrecks, whilst kayaking through El Nido's lagoons allows intimate exploration of karst formations. The Underground River tour combines cave exploration with wildlife spotting, as monitor lizards and macaques inhabit the surrounding national park.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season from November to May offers ideal conditions, with January to April providing the most reliable weather. The monsoon season (June to October) brings heavy rains that can disrupt island hopping, though prices decrease and crowds thin considerably.

Getting There: Puerto Princesa serves as the main gateway with direct flights from Manila (1.5 hours). El Nido has a smaller airport with direct flights from Manila, whilst Coron's Busuanga Airport also connects to Manila. Overland travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido takes 5-6 hours on improved but winding roads.

2. Boracay

Boracay's White Beach ranks among Asia's finest, a 4-kilometre stretch of powdery white sand lapped by warm, clear waters. This small island underwent extensive rehabilitation in 2018, reopening with improved environmental standards that have enhanced its already considerable appeal. Despite its popularity, Boracay maintains its beauty whilst offering world-class amenities.

Major Attractions: White Beach divides into three stations, each offering different atmospheres from party-centric Station 2 to quieter Station 3. Puka Shell Beach on the northern coast provides a more secluded alternative with coarser sand and fewer crowds. Mount Luho offers panoramic views of the entire island, whilst Willy's Rock, a volcanic formation topped with a shrine, creates a distinctive landmark accessible at low tide.

Activities: Water sports dominate Boracay's offerings, with kiteboarding and windsurfing particularly popular during the northeast monsoon season (November to February). Sunset sailing on traditional paraw boats creates memorable experiences, whilst island hopping tours visit snorkelling sites and neighbouring islands. The nightlife along White Beach ranges from beach bars to sophisticated lounges, creating entertainment options for all preferences.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November to May) offers the most reliable sunshine, with December to February providing cooler temperatures. April and May can be extremely hot, whilst the monsoon season (June to October) brings rain and rough seas, though serious kiteboarding and windsurfing enthusiasts specifically target these months for wind conditions.

Getting There: Boracay is accessed via Caticlan Airport (the closest, 10 minutes to the boat terminal) or Kalibo Airport (2 hours to the boat terminal). Both airports have frequent flights from Manila (1 hour). A short boat ride (10-15 minutes) completes the journey to the island.

Lush tropical mountain landscape with terraced hillsides in the Philippines

3. Cebu

Cebu Province combines historical significance, natural beauty, and modern development, functioning as the Philippines' second major urban centre whilst providing access to spectacular beaches, diving sites, and natural wonders. The province spans the main island of Cebu and 167 surrounding islands, offering remarkable diversity within a relatively compact area.

Major Attractions: Cebu City's Magellan's Cross marks where Spanish colonisation began in 1521, whilst the nearby Basilica del Santo Niño houses the country's oldest religious relic. Kawasan Falls in the south features turquoise pools perfect for swimming and canyoneering adventures. Moalboal's Pescador Island and coral gardens attract divers worldwide, whilst Malapascua Island in the north offers rare opportunities to dive with thresher sharks.

Activities: Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls combines swimming, climbing, and jumping through spectacular gorges. Diving in Moalboal reveals sardine runs so dense they darken the water, alongside healthy coral reefs and sea turtle encounters. Whale shark watching in Oslob, whilst controversial due to feeding practices, allows close encounters with these gentle giants. The historic churches and Spanish colonial architecture in Cebu City provide cultural exploration opportunities.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (December to May) offers the best conditions for outdoor activities and diving. December to February provides the most comfortable temperatures, whilst March to May can be quite hot. The rainy season (June to November) brings occasional typhoons, though these typically affect northern Philippines more severely than Cebu.

Getting There: Mactan-Cebu International Airport serves numerous international and domestic routes, with frequent flights from Manila (1.5 hours). The airport is located on Mactan Island, connected to Cebu City by bridges. Ferries connect Cebu to surrounding islands and provinces throughout the Visayas region.

4. Siargao

Siargao gained fame amongst surfers for Cloud 9, one of the world's finest reef breaks, but the island offers far more than surfing. This teardrop-shaped island in the Philippine Sea combines excellent waves with stunning natural beauty including rock pools, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches. Siargao maintains a laid-back atmosphere despite increasing popularity, with development focused primarily around General Luna.

Major Attractions: Cloud 9's famous right-hand break attracts surfers worldwide, with a convenient boardwalk for spectators. Magpupungko Rock Pools reveal natural tidal pools with crystal-clear water during low tide. Sugba Lagoon offers paddleboarding and swimming in calm, clear waters surrounded by mangroves. The three-island tour visits Naked Island (a sandbar), Daku Island (with a beach and local restaurants), and Guyam Island (a tiny tropical paradise).

Activities: Surfing dominates, with breaks suitable for all levels scattered around the island. Island hopping tours explore surrounding islands, lagoons, and beaches. The Sohoton Cove National Park adventure includes swimming in hidden caves, exploring mangrove forests, and spotting stingless jellyfish. Diving and snorkelling reveal healthy coral reefs, whilst the island's interior offers peaceful countryside cycling.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (March to October) offers reliable sunshine, with August to November providing the best surfing conditions as typhoons in the Pacific generate swell. September and October can see direct typhoon hits, requiring weather monitoring. The wet season (November to February) brings rain but also the most consistent waves at Cloud 9.

Getting There: Siargao Airport has direct flights from Manila (2 hours), Cebu (1 hour), and Clark. The airport is located near General Luna, the island's main tourist area. Ferry services connect Siargao to Surigao City on Mindanao, from where buses travel to other destinations.

5. Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces represent one of humanity's greatest engineering achievements, carved into mountainsides by Ifugao people approximately 2,000 years ago. These living cultural landscapes demonstrate sustainable agriculture practised across generations, with the terraces still cultivated using traditional methods. The terraces earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, though they are listed as endangered due to younger generations migrating to urban areas.

Major Attractions: The Banaue Viewpoint provides panoramic vistas of the terraces cascading down mountain slopes. The Batad Rice Terraces, more remote and pristine than Banaue proper, form an amphitheatre of stone walls and irrigation channels. Bangaan Village offers cultural immersion opportunities with homestays in traditional Ifugao houses. The Tam-an Village viewpoint reveals terraces that appear to climb infinitely into the mountains.

Activities: Trekking through the terraces reveals the intricate irrigation systems and allows interaction with farmers maintaining these ancient landscapes. Village homestays provide cultural experiences including traditional weaving demonstrations and local cuisine. The trek to Batad (approximately 1 hour from the road) rewards visitors with spectacular scenery and the opportunity to swim beneath Tappiya Falls. Photography opportunities are exceptional, particularly during sunrise and when the terraces are flooded for planting.

Best Time to Visit: The rice planting season (January to February) sees the terraces filled with water, creating mirror-like reflections. The growing season (March to May) shows vibrant green rice plants covering the terraces. Harvest time (June to July) displays golden terraces. The dry season (November to April) generally offers the best weather, though mountain conditions can be unpredictable year-round.

Getting There: Banaue is located in Ifugao Province, northern Luzon. Overnight buses from Manila take 8-10 hours, typically departing in the evening and arriving in the morning. The journey involves winding mountain roads that can challenge those prone to motion sickness. Private tours and van rentals offer more comfortable but more expensive alternatives.

Scenic river valley in the Philippines with limestone cliffs and tropical vegetation

6. Manila

Metro Manila, the sprawling capital region, functions as the Philippines' political, economic, and cultural heart. Whilst often overlooked by travellers rushing to island destinations, Manila offers significant historical sites, world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, and excellent dining. The city's Spanish colonial heritage remains visible in Intramuros, whilst modern districts showcase the Philippines' contemporary development.

Major Attractions: Intramuros, the walled city built by Spanish colonisers in the 16th century, houses San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Fort Santiago, and Casa Manila museum. Rizal Park honours the national hero José Rizal, whilst the National Museum Complex provides comprehensive cultural and historical context. Makati's Ayala Museum offers interactive Philippine history exhibits, whilst the Manila Ocean Park entertains families.

Activities: Exploring Intramuros by walking or taking a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) reveals Spanish colonial architecture and historical sites. The Binondo district, one of the world's oldest Chinatowns, offers incredible street food and cultural experiences. Shopping ranges from the modern malls of Makati and BGC to the chaotic markets of Divisoria. Manila's bar and restaurant scene rivals any Asian capital, with particularly vibrant nightlife in Poblacion, Makati.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November to April) offers more comfortable conditions for walking around the city. December to February provides the coolest temperatures, though Christmas season brings significant crowds to shopping centres. March to May can be extremely hot and humid, whilst the rainy season (June to October) brings frequent afternoon downpours.

Getting There: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) serves as the Philippines' primary international gateway, with flights from major cities worldwide. Four terminals serve different airlines, and transfer between terminals requires planning due to traffic. The airport is located in Pasay City, connected to other parts of Metro Manila by taxi, ride-hailing services, and public transport.

7. Bohol

Bohol combines geological wonders, unique wildlife, and historical sites with excellent beaches on nearby Panglao Island. The province's diverse attractions make it one of the Philippines' most popular destinations, yet it maintains a more relaxed atmosphere than Boracay or Cebu's resort areas. The island's interior reveals rural Philippine life alongside natural wonders found nowhere else.

Major Attractions: The Chocolate Hills, approximately 1,260 perfectly conical hills that turn brown during the dry season, create a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary protects these tiny primates, amongst the world's smallest, with enormous eyes adapted for nocturnal hunting. The Loboc River cruise combines lunch with scenery and cultural performances. Panglao Island's Alona Beach provides white sand and diving access, whilst the historic churches including Baclayon Church demonstrate Spanish colonial influence.

Activities: The Chocolate Hills viewing platform reveals the extraordinary landscape, particularly stunning during sunset. Tarsier viewing requires patience and quiet, as these endangered animals are extremely sensitive to stress. Diving around Panglao and Balicasag Island reveals healthy coral reefs, sea turtles, and excellent macro life. The Loboc Eco-Tourism Adventure Park offers ziplines and other activities. The countryside offers cycling opportunities through rice paddies and traditional villages.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November to May) provides ideal conditions, with the Chocolate Hills appearing most "chocolate" during the driest months (March to May). December to February offers comfortable temperatures, whilst avoiding the peak heat of late dry season. The rainy season (June to October) can disrupt outdoor activities and boat trips.

Getting There: Tagbilaran Airport has direct flights from Manila (1.5 hours) and Cebu (30 minutes). Ferries connect Bohol to Cebu (2 hours) multiple times daily. Panglao Island is connected to mainland Bohol by bridges, making access straightforward. The proposed new international airport on Panglao will enhance connectivity when completed.

8. Vigan

Vigan preserves the best-surviving example of Spanish colonial architecture in Asia, earning UNESCO World Heritage status for its remarkably intact historic district. This city in Ilocos Sur province functions as a living museum, with ancestral houses still occupied by families whose ancestors built them centuries ago. Cobblestone streets, kalesa (horse-drawn carriages), and colonial buildings create an atmosphere of stepping back in time.

Major Attractions: Calle Crisologo's cobblestone street epitomises Spanish colonial architecture, with bahay na bato (stone houses) lining the thoroughfare. The Syquia Mansion Museum showcases upper-class Filipino-Spanish life with period furnishings and photographs. St. Paul's Cathedral dominates Plaza Salcedo with its Earthquake Baroque style. The Bantay Bell Tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Local pottery workshops in Barangay Pagburnayan demonstrate traditional jar-making techniques.

Activities: Walking tours reveal the historic district's architectural treasures and cultural heritage. Taking a kalesa ride provides a romantic way to explore whilst supporting local transport traditions. The evening light show on Calle Crisologo creates magical atmospheres, whilst the dancing fountain show in Plaza Salcedo entertains visitors. Shopping for local handicrafts including abel weaving and pottery supports traditional arts. Sampling Vigan longganisa (local sausage) and empanada demonstrates regional cuisine.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November to April) offers the most comfortable conditions for walking around the city. May marks the beginning of the Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts, celebrating local culture. December provides Christmas decorations that enhance the colonial atmosphere. The rainy season (May to October) brings occasional flooding but fewer tourists.

Getting There: Laoag International Airport is the nearest airport (approximately 1.5 hours by road), with flights from Manila. Buses from Manila to Vigan take approximately 8-9 hours overnight, offering a budget-friendly option. Private tours and van rentals provide more comfortable transport. Vigan can be combined with other northern Luzon destinations including the Ilocos coast and Pagudpud beaches.

9. Davao and Mount Apo

Davao City, the largest city by land area in the Philippines, serves as the gateway to Mindanao's attractions including Mount Apo, the country's highest peak at 2,954 metres. The region combines urban sophistication with access to pristine natural areas, from coastal areas to highland forests. Davao's reputation for safety and cleanliness makes it an appealing base for exploring Mindanao.

Major Attractions: Mount Apo, an active stratovolcano, attracts serious trekkers seeking to summit the Philippines' highest point. The Philippine Eagle Centre houses critically endangered Philippine eagles, the world's largest eagles, in a captive breeding programme. Eden Nature Park offers cool highland climate and gardens showcasing native plants. The Davao Crocodile Park combines conservation with tourism, housing Philippine crocodiles alongside other species. Samal Island, accessible by ferry, provides beach resorts and diving opportunities just offshore from the city.

Activities: Climbing Mount Apo requires 2-3 days, with various routes offering different challenges and scenery. The trek passes through multiple ecosystems from lowland forest through mossy forest to summit grasslands, with opportunities to spot endemic wildlife. White-water rafting on the Davao River provides adrenaline-filled adventure. The city's durian fruit is famous throughout the Philippines, and fruit markets offer tasting opportunities for this divisive delicacy. Island hopping around Samal reveals beaches and coral reefs.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November to May) provides the best conditions for climbing Mount Apo, with March to May offering the most reliable weather at high elevations. December to February can see rain even during the "dry" season. Davao experiences less pronounced wet and dry seasons than other Philippine regions, receiving rainfall year-round but generally avoiding typhoons.

Getting There: Francisco Bangoy International Airport (Davao Airport) has direct flights from Manila (2 hours), Cebu, and several international destinations. The airport is located near the city centre. Overland transport from other Mindanao destinations connects through an extensive bus network, though journey times can be long due to mountainous terrain.

10. Coron and the Calamian Islands

Coron town, located on Busuanga Island, serves as the jumping-off point for exploring the spectacular Calamian Islands and the world-class dive sites around Coron Island proper. This region combines stunning natural beauty including limestone karsts and jewel-like lakes with exceptional World War II wreck diving. The area maintains a more rugged, adventurous atmosphere compared to the more developed El Nido region further south in Palawan.

Major Attractions: Kayangan Lake, consistently voted one of the Philippines' cleanest lakes, requires climbing 300 steps for rewarding views before descending to swim in crystal-clear freshwater. Twin Lagoon features both fresh and saltwater sections separated by limestone cliffs. Barracuda Lake's thermocline creates a unique diving experience with dramatic temperature changes. Siete Pecados (Seven Sins) offers excellent snorkelling over vibrant coral gardens. The Japanese shipwrecks, including the Irako and Akitsushima, create remarkable dive sites with ships largely intact at accessible depths.

Activities: Wreck diving attracts underwater enthusiasts worldwide, with approximately a dozen accessible wrecks from World War II offering various difficulty levels. Island hopping tours visit multiple lakes, lagoons, and beaches in single-day excursions. Snorkelling reveals healthy coral reefs and diverse marine life, from pygmy seahorses to barracudas. Climbing to viewpoints rewards effort with spectacular panoramas of karst formations and turquoise waters. Hot springs near Maquinit provide relaxing soaks with ocean views.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November to May) provides ideal conditions for diving and island hopping, with December to February offering comfortable temperatures and good visibility underwater. March to May can be very hot. The rainy season (June to October) brings rougher seas that can disrupt boat trips and reduce visibility for diving, though prices decrease significantly.

Getting There: Busuanga Airport (Coron Airport) has direct flights from Manila (1 hour) and occasional flights from Cebu and Clark. The airport is located approximately 30 minutes by road from Coron town. Ferry services connect Coron to El Nido and Puerto Princesa, though these involve overnight journeys with basic facilities.

Planning Your Philippines Journey

The Philippines' archipelagic nature requires careful planning to maximise your time whilst managing the logistics of inter-island travel. Domestic flights connect major destinations, though schedules can change and delays occur, particularly during the typhoon season. Ferry services offer more scenic but much slower alternatives. The country's peak season (December to February) brings crowds to popular destinations, requiring advance bookings for accommodation and activities.

According to Lonely Planet, most visitors underestimate the Philippines' scale and attempt to see too much in limited time. Focusing on one or two regions allows deeper experiences rather than spending vacation time in airports and ferry terminals. The cultural diversity across regions means each destination offers distinct experiences, from the Spanish colonial heritage of Luzon to the Muslim culture in parts of Mindanao.

Health considerations include vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, whilst malaria prophylaxis may be recommended for certain rural areas. Travel insurance should cover adventure activities if planning diving or trekking. Respect for local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural communities, ensures positive interactions with Filipino people renowned for their hospitality.

Planning Philippines travel requires understanding of seasonal weather patterns, inter-island logistics, and destination-specific considerations. Phenomenal Place offers expert planning assistance for Philippines expeditions, ensuring efficient routing, appropriate timing, and access to extraordinary experiences throughout the archipelago. Call 214-293-3218 to discuss your Philippines journey with travel consultants who understand this phenomenal destination.