Amazing Things to Do on Your Philippines Vacation

The Philippines certainly ranks among the most stunning places to visit on this planet with its array of over 7000 islands. The welcoming islands of the Philippines offer numerous types of holidays: rural calmness which features virgin beaches, rough juicy hills, urban cities, old architecture and many more – something that goes beyond the usual for every type of traveler.

No matter which thrill, relaxation, or cultural engagement you seek, this island paradise will be sure to win your heart. As we keep reading however, let’s first look at some of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines and what makes them popular among tourists.

12 Dream Vacation Spots in the Philippines You Can’t Miss

Beautiful places in the Philippines are uncountable. What are those amazing spots we recommend visiting?

Boracay

Out of all the tourist sights in the Philippines, Boracay is arguably the most well-known across the globe, famous for its pristine beaches and crystal blue water. It is a ‘must-see’ destination due to its unique attractiveness and lively atmosphere.

White Beach: Every beach center in Boracay, which depicts the heart of the island, is known as a ‘station’ in Boracay. Station 1 consists of high-end resorts, Station 2 features shops and eateries, and Station 3 is more laid-back and tranquil.
Water Sports: Stand up for skimming the waters, and try exhilarating activities such as parasailing, banana boating, jet skiing, and even windsurfing if they appeal to you.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: There are several great sites for scuba diving and snorkelling, such as Crocodile Island and Yapak, where coral reefs and colorful fish are found.
Mount Luho: There is a hike to the highest peak of Boracay, which provides an astonishing view of the island itself.
Nightlife: The beach parties, fire dances, and live music come into full swing in Boracay as the sun sets. Great places to hang out include Epic Boracay and Cocomangas Shooter Bar.

There’s no denying that one of Boracay’s great appeal lies with its ability to cater to all types of travelers, which makes it one of the best Philippines tourist spots to visit.

Palawan

Palawan, known as the “Last Frontier,” is paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Its magnificent views, blue clear water and rich ecosystems certainly make it one of the best places to visit in the Philippines.

El Nido: Famous for its impressive limestone towers, hidden lagoons and stunning beaches. Notable sites include the Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon and Seven Commandos Beach.
Coron: A true underwater wonderland for divers with shipwrecks, coral gardens and marine life in abundance. A highlight of Coron is Kayangan Lake, which is characterized by its emerald waters.
Puerto Princesa Underground River: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the ten most visited sites in the Philippines. A boat ride around the river can show some of its stunning rock formations and unique rock formations.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park: This natural World Heritage Site offers excellent diving opportunities with plenty of sharks, turtles and an abundance of colorful fish.

The untainted nature of Palawan and its unique sights make it a popular spot among local as well as foreign tourists.

Cebu

Oozing with history, culture, and natural marvels, any travel itinerary in the Philippines will be incomplete without visiting Cebu. Cebu is often referred to as the ‘Queen City of the South’ and is in the midst of a plethora of things to do in the Philippines.

Kawasan Falls: Loved for its famed canyoneering and multi-layered waterfall. Relax and swim in its aquamarine ponds or go on a thrilling trek to the falls.
Oslob Whale Sharks: Swim among these gentle creatures during a snorkelling encounter that will be the highlight of your trip.
Magellan’s Cross: A symbol of unswerving faith and a reminder of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines in 1521.
Temple of Leah: A Roman-style building built over the course of time, with stunning vistas of Cebu City.

Thanks to a very rich culture as well as natural attractions, Cebu remains one of the top places to visit in the Philippines.

Batanes

Batanes is the northernmost province in the Philippines and its scenery is quite a different rot to the sandy beaches the rest of the country is known for. It is often referred to as one of the most beautiful places in the country, the best place to visit in Philippines which feels quite rural and untouched with modern life.

Marlboro Hills: Wonderful green landscapes that do look a lot like Scotland in terms of sights. Ideal views for picnics and photography.
Valugan Boulder Beach: Wavy beach filled with smooth and round boulders, so the place is quite extraordinary.
Basco Lighthouse: This beautiful lighthouse that goes around the hilltop and looks out over the sea
Sabtang Island: Look at baiting stone houses and remember how harmonious the island is.

Batanes is well suited for people looking for peace as well as those wanting to observe nature closely.

Siargao

Siargao, also called the “Surfing Capital of Philippines”, is a paradise for the waves and the island lovers as well. In addition to its surf culture today, Siargao is popular with a broad range of activities to do in the Philippines for all types of travelers.

Cloud 9: this Siargao beach is famous for its barreling waves known internationally, which attract surfers, both professional and beginners.
Sugba Lagoon: The calm emerald waters of this beautiful lagoon will invite you to kayaking, paddleboarding or swimming.
Magpupungko Rock Pools: Natural tidal rock pools that can be fully seen during low tides will enchant you. Best for swimming and cliff jumping as well.
Naked Island: A lonely sandbar lost in the middle of the sea but worth a stop during an island hopping tour.

Adventure and relaxation seekers should put Siargao on their list of places to visit in the Philippines due to its beautiful environment and relaxed atmosphere.

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces are an astonishing feat of engineering by the Ifugao people within the Philippine mountains over two thousand years ago and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Such terraces are among the prominent sites of the Philippines.

Batad Amphitheater Terraces: An amazing view of the widespread and overflowing levels of rice-terraced fields.
Hiking Adventures: Hike through different trails leading to villages, waterfalls like Tappiya Falls, and other spectacular sights.
Cultural Immersion: Get entertained by the Ifugao traditional songs and cuisines and their handiwork at the homestays.

This destination is particularly well-suited for those who wish to interact at a cultural level while basking in breathtaking scenery.

Vigan

Feels like it is an amazing, fragile portrait of unique Filipino and Spanish colonial legacies. So far, this is the most popular and historically preserved city in the Philippines, and I believe it is the place to look forward to for those who love to cherish history and culture.

This is called Vigan, which has been recognized as a “World Heritage City by UNESCO”. IUCN classified it as a heritage site, and no one knows what it feels like.

Calle Crisologo: Truly, an iconic site of Vigan and like the word’s bandwagon, it is believed that it is where the 990 Spanish empire captured the entire city and the same is symbolized with this place too. Cobblestone paths along with older houses of stone make these streets filled with the history of the town’s.
Bantay Bell Tower: Having this torre in an area between the valleys not only echoes the history but also enchants through captivating views from the top of the hill in Vigan.
Syquia Mansion: This suggests that this family handed down the house like Syquia mansion which was turned into a museum shows a clear footprint what it is to be within doors as a Filipino-Spanish family in Spain along with a collection of antique artifacts.
Burnay Pottery: The traditional way of producing earthen clay pots with the help of clay that has cemented across many borders and is still continuing to flourish in Vilgan like how it originated.
Vigan Cathedral (St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral): This civil building possesses breathtaking beauty in Spanish and naturally blends with the surrounding sights. This distinction gave the community members exceptional value to this religion.

The historical section of the region, known as the city of Vigan, conspicuously boasts of an amphitheatre with colours and culture, thus making it a good tourist destination. H

Manila

At the core and center of the country lies Manila and it is a fast-paced urban area that has both historic and modern elements. The city, which is often viewed as merely a stopping point, is full of great things to do in Philippines, offering a wide range of activities for those who are ready to appreciate it.

Intramuros: The Walled City, located within Fort Santiago, the Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church all of these, are sites with rich historical significance during the Spanish Colonization.
Rizal Park (Luneta): This large urban area was built to memorialize the national hero, Jose Rizal. The park is great for walking, sights of cultural shows, and a few small monuments.
National Museum Complex: Appreciate Filipino culture further through art, archaeology, natural history, and ethnographic artworks. One of the major attractions is the Spoliarium painting done by Juan Luna.
Binondo Chinatown: A modern and active Chinoy community offering the country’s best traditional and modern Chinese-Filipino cuisine, markets, and beautiful temples. It is the oldest Chinatown in the world.
Shopping and Nightlife: Areas for shopping abound at Manila’s huge malls like SM Mall of Asia and Greenbelt, while night spots such as Bonifacio Global City (BGC) have fashionable bars and restaurants.

Manila is perhaps one of the must see cities in the Philippines for those in search of city adventures due to its colorful culture, different communities and a bustling art scene.

Davao City, Philippines

Davao City, situated at the southeastern corner of Mindanao, is a delightful mix of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and eco-tourism. Being one of the best tourist destinations in the Philippines, it possesses both the comforts of a city and the sights of an unrestrained wilderness.

Philippine Eagle Center: this activity sanctuary is dedicated to the Philippine eagle conservation and offers a closer experience to the magnificent bird also called the “Haribon”.
Mount Apo: This is the highest mountain in the Philippines and all its 2954 meters is a hiker’s paradise. The views from its summits, the fauna and flora, and the thrill of success make it an adventure for the outdoor enthusiasts.
Eden Nature Park: A unique eco-tourism resort where guests can hike through breathtaking trails, experience exciting zip lines, and enjoy delicious farm-to-table meals.
Samal Island: A short ferry ride out of Davao City, this island has beautiful beaches, clear waters, and some great resorts for those looking to unwind.
Davao Durian Delicacies: The “Durian Capital” is how Davao is referred to, due to this divisive fruit. Be ready for durian candies, ice-cream, and fresh durian if you are feeling adventurous!

Davao City has the right mix of adventure, culture, and eco-friendliness, which makes it stand among the top 10 in the Philippines for tourism sites.

Bohol

Nature, culture, and adventure all come together in Bohol, which makes it one of the most famous places in the Philippines. This island province offers unique natural formations and vivid marine ecosystems, among others.

Chocolate Hills: There are over 1200 identically shaped hills which get brown in the dry season giving off a scenery which looks like it has come out from a fairytale.
Tarsier Sanctuary: Observe the adorable big-eyed primate in its natural environment and learn about the rehabilitation strategies of the wildlife caregiver on site.
Panglao Island: The island is renowned for Alona beach and it provides several world-class diving sites since it is rich in marine life.
Loboc River Cruise: Go on a soft boat ride on the quiet river complete with buffet meals, and listen to songs performed live during the cruise.
Hinagdanan Cave: An incredible cave that is below ground and has lots of stalactites, stalagmites, and many other natural features that help to create a swimming pool of ideal temperature.

Bohol, in addition to its breathtaking landscapes, is also culturally rich and, as such, is amongst the best places to visit in the whole of the Philippines.

Camiguin

Still referred to as the island born, the fire is also a volcanic island which has natural attractions accompanied with cultural features. It may, however, be little in size but has a lot to offer making it an interesting prospect for most tourists visiting the Philippines.

White Island: An untainted sand bar that lies very close to the shores of Camiguin and provides the opportunity to sunbathe, engage in snorkelling, or view the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Hibok-Hibok.
Sunken Cemetery: An enthralling but heart-wrenching spot adorned by a huge cross that juts out of the water and symbolizes the volcanic activity that took place on the island.
Katibawasan Falls: A wonderful 250 ft high waterfall set in a green setting, which is appropriate for those who love nature chaos out loud.
Ardent Hot Springs: Bathe in these hot pools and enjoy a relaxing experience after a long day haggling in an island’s rough landscape.
Lanzones Festival: Go in October to be part of the lanzones fruit festivities where the locals parade and perform cultural and street dance.

Camiguin is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines especially for those who are in search of calm yet exciting moments.

Apo Reef Natural Park

Apo Reef Natural Park is the last option in our list of top 12 tourist attractions in the Philippines. It is located in Occidental Mindoro and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage site as well as a gold medal. The park is regarded as one of the biggest and undisturbed coral ecosystems in the world and a tourist attraction in the Philippines.

The Coral reef spread measuring 35 km is the world’s most famous snorkeling spot due to its location, visibility, and a plethora of fish life, sea turtles and rays.

Island camping: Experience a night out under the stars on the undeveloped islands of the park where the sounds of waves and wind are the only distractions.
Birdwatching: All the islands that form the reef are a good source of bird species, and bird watchers will find this area pleasant.
Lagoon exploration: Paddle in between mangroves and lagoons to look for biodiversity hotspots.

Apo Reef is one of the regions where the underwater experience is unrivaled and ideal for scuba diving, making it a destination worth visiting in the Philippines.

Wrapping Up

So, where to go in the Philippines? Now, you have a pool of options. You’ve explored many interesting places and decided whether they are worth visiting. Whatever you plan for your next trip, visit at least the top 10 tourist attractions in the Philippines. Choose depending on your budget, preferences, and goals. Have fun!