The Philippines is one of the favourite holiday destinations in Southeast Asia for most European travelers looking for a tropical climate. It’s quite evident from its white sand beaches, waterfalls, turquoise waters and numerous karst stone islands, why it is so famous among the travelers.
Here’s a curated list of best places to visit in the Philippines for first time travelers.
Places to Visit in the Philippines
Boracay
Boracay is known for its serene white sand beaches that spread up to 4 km. This island has 3 main stations, all of which allow the visitors to enjoy diverse experiences.
There’s so much you can do – from staying in the high-end resorts at station 1, or enjoying the nightlife to enjoying a peaceful time at the white sand beaches with your family.
- Try diving at the Ariel’s Point where you’ll find traditional outrigger boats and vibrant corals and fish.
- You can also try water adventures like kite surfing at the Bulabog beach or visit the Crocodile island that almost looks like a crocodile.
Palawan
Also known as the ‘last ecological frontier’ in the Philippines, Palawan is a coastline that stretches almost 2,000 km with white sand beaches and rocky coves. Most travelers love visiting its capital, Puerto Princesa, where they find UNESCO listed subterranean river.
You need a permit from the Subterranean National Park Office to at least two days early to take a tour of the 4.3 km long underground river.
Visit Kayangan Lake, one of the cleanest lakes in the country. It is managed by the local Tagbanwa people. It is considered sacred and hence swimming is allowed only in certain parts of the lake.
Cebu
Cebu is the largest island in the Visayas region and home to the 2nd largest city in the Philippines.
You can also visit Magellan’s cross which is a stone gazebo built in the 18th century by Portuguese and Spanish explorers upon their arrival in Cebu island.
You can also visit the unique Kawasan Falls, that is a three level cascade turquoise waterfall in Cebu. Try canyoneering at the falls or ride bamboo rafts.
At Oslob or Donsol, you’ll get a good chance to meet the whale sharks that are about 20 feet long and migrate for nutrient rich waters.
Bohol
The heart shaped island in the Visayas region, Bohol is known for its chocolate hills that turn brown in the dry season. It is known as one of the top diving sites in the world, due to rich coral walls of Balicasag Island and Pangalao reefs. It is an amazing place for day adventures such as island hopping or swimming with the corals or explore the chocolate hills on an ATV.
Bohol is known for its adorable tarsiers with big eyes that are found at the Chocolate Hills. You’ll also find the tarsier zoo in Lobok or the sanctuary in Corella.
Manila
Manila is one of the busiest capitals in the world. Step through its cobbled streets and admire the Spanish style architecture with tiny cafes and old stone buildings. Learn about the history, culture and food of Philippines at the capital city and explore the beaches or spend time in the old churches.
What to do at Manila:
- Visit the “Walled City” of the Spanish-era and old churches
- Discover the historic Art Deco architecture at Manila Metropolitan Theater
- Find collections of pre-colonial Philippine gold relics at Ayala Museum in Makati
- Go to the open-air markets of Legazpi & Binondo on Saturday or Sunday
- Hike at Mt. Daraitan or Mt. Pinatubo
- Ride a boat on Taal Lake
- Bath in the hot springs of Laguna
Places to eat in Manila
Have a traditional merienda at Mary Grace, halo-halo at Bebang or try innovative Filipino food at Inatô with chef JP Cruz’s own culinary style. You can also try Filipino Mexican fusion food like sisig and tacos at Tadeo in Quezon City. If you like bar hopping, sit at Poliya for mixed drinks and craft beer.
Siargao
Known for its surfing spots like Cloud 9, Siargao island attracts surfers and digital nomads from all over the world. It is very small, almost like a teardrop and offers epic surfing spots for the surf lovers due to its diverse reef breaks. Take boat tours to the inner lands of the island and you’ll discover caves and rich coral reefs.
Top activities at Siargao:
- Surfing at the famous spot Cloud 9
- Kayaking at Sugba Laagoon
- Drive around the coconut palms
- Try local seafood
- Take a boat tour to Naked Island or Daku Island
Vigan
Named as “Snake Island” due to its S-shaped sandbar, Vigan flaunts deep blue waters, white sand and palm trees. Explore this world known UNESCO heritage site that is known for the best preserved Spanish colonial town that dates back to the late-1500s. This old town used to be a major trading post before the colonial era.
Best spots to discover at Vigan historic town:
- Walk on the Crisologo Street at the heart of Vigan
- Explore historic buildings at the Mestizo district
- Get a 15-minute Kalesa ride on the cobbled streets around Vigan Heritage Village
- Pray at the late-18th century St. Paul’s Cathedral
- Discover religious documents at Palacio de Arzobispado
- Climb the steps of Bantay Bellfry Tower
Final Note
As a first time traveler, you’ll find diverse experiences in the Philippines. Each island has its own personality and distinct features. You can also explore its historical cities to know about the colonial past of the country with an easy Philippines visa process.
