Famous Philippines Tourist Spots
Since I recently wrote my post on the Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines, I thought it would be appropriate for me to do a post on the top Philippines Tourist Spots. The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands which makes this country a beautiful location for your next tropical vacation.
There are so many adventurous things to do in the Philippines because of the perfectly warm climate and beautiful blue waters. As someone who travels with locals and visits the Philippines, I wanted to give you my top Philippines Destinations.
If you are looking for where to go to the Philippines or why you should visit the Philippines this is the perfect post for you. Before you visit the Philippines, be sure to see my travel guide which includes travel tips for the Philippines and my Philippines Packing List.
RELATED: Philippines Itinerary
Philippines Tourist Spots
Bohol – One of the Philippines Popular Tourist Spots
Bohol is a beloved location to visit with so many things to see and do such as the Chocolate Hills (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Tarsier Sanctuary, the Jungle Cruise, and more. It is one of my favorite Philippines Tourist Spots and one of the top places to visit in the Philippines. This location is perfect for families and travelers alike.
Bohol has some amazing beaches to explore as well, but for the most part, is it just a wonderful location to vacation in and see what the Philippines has to offer. If you are looking for places to visit in the Philippines for a family, Bohol is the perfect destination, and refer to the top things to do in Bohol.
To get to the island, most people will take a ferry boat from Cebu City or you can also fly there domestically. Insider’s Tip: Keep in mind that traveling by ferry boat can sometimes be canceled when bad weather arises making it difficult to reschedule another trip.
Things to do in Bohol – Top Tourist Spots
- Chocolate Hills
- The Hanging Bridge
- Tarsier Sanctuary
- Hinagdanan Cave
- Bohol Man-Made Forest
- Loboc River Cruise
Cebu
Cebu is a beautiful place with a lot to see all over this entire island. It has some beautiful waterfalls such as Kawasan Falls which I suggest you visit on your trip! There are also plenty of areas to go scuba diving, canyoneering in the beautiful blue waters of Badian, snorkeling and swimming in the ocean and so much more.
Cebu City is easy to get to with flights internationally and domestically daily. I highly suggest you fly through Cebu Internationally rather than Manila since traffic can be terrible when switching terminals in Manila. Be sure to check out some of the South Cebu Tourist Spots.
RELATED: Cebu Itinerary
Things to do in Cebu
Here is a simple list of things to do in Cebu. These are the famous tourist spots of Cebu. There are many festivals in Cebu and be sure to check out some festivals within the nearby islands such as the Masskara festival in Bacolod.
- Cebu Taoist Temple
- Mactan Shrine
- Magellan’s Cross
- Temple of Leah
- Fort San Pedro
- Kawasan Falls
- Moalboat
- Island Hop
- Whale Sharks
- Sirao Flower Garden
If you are looking to head further south or even south-east be sure to check out the White Sandbar in Dumaguete City.
Palawan – Most popular Philippines Tourist Spots
Palawan is one of the most popular places to visiting the Philippines and El Nido is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Palawan. Sarah says that El Nido has the perfect beach town vibe. Happy hours all afternoon long, daily island-hopping opportunities, and friendly locals and tourists alike make this easily one of the best destinations in the Philippines.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hop on a multi-day sailing expedition exploring remote and uninhabited islands, white sand beaches, and filled with rich marine life. If you love adventurous things, be sure to read all about Ziplining in El Nido.
If you are wanting to skip the tourist places like Palawan, visit some other places in El Nido like Nacpan Beach! Nacpan Beach has perfect secluded beaches that are like Palawan or better.
Things to do in Palawan
There are a lot of things to do in Palawan, these are some of the best things to do. Check out these beautiful places in Palawan.
- Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park – longest navigable underground river
- Island Hopping Tour
- Iwahig River Firefly Kayaking
- Estrella Falls
- Tabon Caves
- Scuba Diving in El Nido
- Starfish Island
- Beaches in El Nido
- Puerto Princesa City Tour
- Port Barton
- Bakbakan Falls
- Eat Tamilok
- Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park
- Simizu island
- Wreck Diving in Busuanga Island
Island Hopping Tours
- Coron Island Hopping Tour
- Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
- Puerto Princesa City Bay Cruise
- Palawan Port Barton Island Hopping from San Vicente
RELATED: Things to do in Palawan
Boracay – Popular Philippines Tourist Spots for partying
Amy from Page Traveller says that Boracay is paradise. It’s so beautiful, I’ve been twice! Once with my boyfriend and once with my best friend. White Beach (the main beach on the island) is everything I had expected Thailand to be – powder white sand, crystal clear waters, palm trees, incredible sunsets… the waters of Boracay are so clear, you can see the details on your toenails, even when you’re up to your neck in the ocean!
The downside is that it can be a little difficult to get to; usually, it’s a flight to Manila, an internal flight on a little propeller plane to Caticlan or Kalibo (and then a bus from Kalibo), then a jetty across to Boracay and a tuk-tuk transfer to White Beach. However, the journey is totally worth it and part of the adventure.
There is a lot to do other than just laze by the beach or the pool. Scuba diving, snorkeling, island-hopping, boat trips… plus, the food and drink options are so good! The prices are super-cheap by western standards and in some restaurants, we found that alcohol was cheaper than soft drinks (because they are imported).
In terms of culture, though the locals are very friendly and speak impeccable English, you won’t have an authentic local experience on Boracay – it’s very much a tourist destination (I would recommend heading up to Northern Luzon if that’s your goal), but in terms of a beach holiday, it’s perfect. I can’t wait to go back and explore more Philippines tourist spots.
RELATED: Where to stay in Boracay
Siargao – The Best Philippines Tourist Spots for surfing
Siargao has been coined famously from many Facebook videos of swimming with the non-stinging jellyfish at Suhoton Cove. This place has become big on the tourist map of things to do in the Philippines. Besides that, there are a ton of nearby islands perfect for exploring and relaxing for that perfect beach life. If you love to surf or go diving, this area may be perfect for you! Don’t forget to add the Taktak Falls to your list of things to see and do here.
Things to do in Siargao
- Surf Cloud 9’s World
- Naked Island
- Magpupungko Rock Pools
- Sugba Lagoon
- Tayangban Cave Pool
- Guyam Island
- Daku Island
- Taktak Falls
- Pacifico beach
- Blue Cathedral
- Corregidor Island
- Algeria Beach
Manila – The most common Philippines Tourist Spots
Manila is the capital of the Philippines which is why I have added this city to the list of Philippines tourist spots. It is a large city with a lot of shopping to do, including buying some of the most affordable freshwater pearls. Manila has a lot of friendly people and a lot of great delicious food. Be sure to check out some of the hidden games in Manila.
Things to do in Manila
- San Agustin Church
- San Agustin Museum
- Manila Baywalk
- Manila Cathedral
- Intramuros
- Fort Santiago
- Karaoke
- Jeepney Rides
- Chinatown
- Rizal Park
- Casa Manila
- Paco Park
- Quiapo Church
- Malacañang Palace
- Mayon Volcano
RELATED: Manila Travel Tips
Marie from Ms. Meeting Adventures says Banaue is definitely one of the top places to see in the Philippines. Home of the popular “Eighth wonder of the world”, it will surely not let you down. Instead, it will even take you higher just by looking at these “stairway to heaven” landscapes scattered all over the town. For starters, the Banaue Rice Terraces is the most popular of its kind. Then comes the Batad Rice Terraces, Hapao Rice Terraces, and Mayoyao Rice Terraces where each one of them also offers a unique experience to their visitors.
Another thing that I like about it is that Banaue also offers a lot of hiking activities for the adrenaline junkies. This means that if you want to sightsee these rice terraces, you have to be prepared to conquer hours of walking first. But don’t worry, each kilometer will surely lead you to breathtaking scenery like the Bogyah hot spring and the Tappiya falls where you can relax for the rest of the day. This location should be added to your Philippines tourist spots Itinerary.
Going to Banaue will approximately take you half a day– that’s 12 hours of bus ride from Manila. Once there, I suggest that you’ll stay at least 3 days to get the most out of it. Banaue is surely a perfect getaway if you want to take a break from city life.
Things to do in Banaue
- Batad Rice Terraces
- Bangaan Rice Terraces
- Hapao Rice Terraces
- Banaue Viewpoint
- Tam-an Village
- Hanging Bridge
- Banaue Arch
- Aguian View Deck
- Tappiya Falls
Camiguin Island is a beautiful island worth exploring with beautiful white sands which is why this location is one of the top Philippines tourist spots. They also have a ton of great waterfalls along with some beautiful hiking places where you can feel like you are at the top of the mountain. One of my favorite things to do in Camiguin is to visit the cold and hot springs there. They are very relaxing with three or more separated areas where you can enjoy the clear freshwaters.
Things to do in Camiguin
- White Island
- Vulcan Volcano
- Ardent Hibok Hibok Hot Spring
- Katibawasan Falls
- Tuasan Falls
- Sto Nino Cold Spring
- Giant Clam Sanctuary
- Mantigue Island Nature Park
- Burias Shoals
- Freediving
- Sunken Cemetery
Illian is known for some of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of the Philippines. This location is one of the less known Philippines tourist spots, but if you love waterfalls, you need to put Iligan on your list of places to visit in the Philippines. There are 23 waterfalls to explore in this beautiful town. The beautiful waterfalls include Tinago Falls, Maria Cristina Falls, Abaga Falls, Limunsudan Falls, Mimbalot Falls, Dodiongan Falls, to add to your list of Philippines Destinations.
The best way to get to Iligan is probably to fly or take a ferry into Ozamiz City. Then you can take a bus or drive and take a ferry from Ozamiz to Iligan. It will take a little over 2 hours to get there.
These waterfalls are one of the hidden tourist spots in the Philippines and definitely underrated. It is popular among locals rather than tourists.
Things to do in Iligan
- Tinago Falls
- Maria Cristina Falls
- Mimbalut Falls
- Hindang Cave
- Limunsudan Falls
- Mt. Agad-Agad
- Pampam Falls
Eriberta Cold Springs – One of the Hidden Philippines Tourist Spots
These Cold Springs is a beautiful Philippines Destination to visit and is one of the popular Philippines Tourist Spots. The water is ice cold and filled with fresh water. They have done a lot of improvements and additions to this cute little resort which they didn’t have in the past. They have about 4 large areas filled with water. Some have slides, others have waterfalls and steps. You can even rent a space to grill fish or food, have a picnic, and sing karaoke.
Surigao del Sur
Surigao is a beautiful province to visit in the Southern Philippines. There are a lot of beautiful things to do here and more off the beaten path. It’s not as filled with tourists and it’s a great place to relax. There are a few beautiful secluded islands where you can easily stay. They take you out there by boat and then you can do a boat tour while you stay there as well.
Things to do in Surigao del Sur
- Hinatuan Enchanted River
- Britania
- Tinuy-an Falls
- San Augustin’s Church
- Hagonoy Island
- Cagwait White Beach
- Asinan Beach
- Bao-Bao Falls
There you have it, these are my favorite Philippines tourist spots? Have visited any of these places? why you should visit the Philippines
So many waterfalls! The Phillippines just looks amazing, all jungle and ocean beach. That’s a great tip about not getting a real “local” experience on Boracay.
The blue waters of Bohol, Cebu, Palawan and Camiguin Island are gorgeous! When our kids are a little older, and ready to make a very long flight…the Phillipines are definitely on our list! I’m a sucker for a waterfall!
Whaaaat, Philipines is made up of over 7000 islands!! I did not know that. This is a great list of places for first-timers planning a trip to this beautiful country. Love your photos!
Thank you for sharing. I love your post. The Philippines looked like such an incredible place to travel too, so green and lush. I will deffo be using your guide when planning a trip 🙂
I didn’t know much about the different places to visit in the Philippines – just that it always looks so beautiful in pictures. Thanks for giving such a thorough guide to the possible destinations.
The waterfall looks so majestic. I have heard so much about Phillipines. Reading about your adventures is giving me a serious wanderlust ?
Wow, what a stunning country! It’s definitely on my list of places to go. I love beaches and waterfalls!!
Love the Philippines! It’s hard to filter it down to 10 places but this is a good list. Beautiful photos!
I’m headed to the Philippines in 6 weeks!I’ll be sure to check out your other post too, but you’ve ticked off all the places we’re looking to go here!
Perfect! Glad to hear that! Let me know if you have any questions, I’ve traveled there 9 times now ?
Nice pictures! I did Banaue and Palawan but didn’t have time for the Chocolate Hills – really wanted to see that!
I live in Okinawa, Japan just a hop off the Philippines and your post has made me want to add it to my Asia bucket list!! So many fun outdoor adventures! <3
I was in Palawan in December… it was incredible and I definitely have plans to return to the Philippines! Deciding which island to visit is the hardest past but Siargao is next on my bucket list. Great post
I have a ton of friends that go to the Phillippines, but I haven’t been yet. This is such a helpful list and now I really want to take a dip in those cold springs!!
I’m dreaming to visit the Philippines and an overview is exactly what I need to plan. I think the islands are ultimate paradise. Thanks for sharing.
I would definitely visit Iligan, because the waterfalls look stunning! I love the picture of the rice terraces as well :).
I am from the Philippines and I’m so happy to read this. I haven’t been back for 3 years now and your post just made me want to go right away. My Greek husband also thinks that Boracay is the best beach he’s ever been to and that’s saying a lot because normally Greeks will always say Greece is the most beautiful. :p
Wow each of these places looks amazing! I love all the beautiful natural places in the Philippines and can’t wait to visit and explore them myself 🙂
The Tinago Falls look heavenly! I added the Philippines to my bucket list just last year but I did not know most of these places so thank you!
Oh i am definitively saving this list, its awesome! I would love to go to the Philippines some day. Chocolate hill looks like great hiking country. V inspiring thanks for sharing
Yay! This guide comes on time. I’m moving to Vietnam very soon and I’m planning on traveling around. The Philippines are definitely on my list especially Borocay. I’m saving this post for later.
You have listed a number of places which are usually not covered in the Philippines tour. Camiguin Island looks gorgeous, the clear blue waters at the base of the waterfalls are amazing! Thanks for sharing these awesome recommendations!