6 Best Places to Visit in Philippines
The Philippines has over 7000 islands encompassing primarily the three island groups of Luzon, Mindanao and Visayas representing the entire country. From tropical islands to white sand beaches, from unique wildlife to rice terraces and turquoise-blue waters to surreal marine life, this Asian country has plenty to offer for an ultimate getaway. The various regions of the country are well connected with airlines, railways, waterways as well as roadways. You can also find some good deals on Philippine airlines. However, you can’t explore the entire country on your first visit. Therefore, I’ve compiled 6 best places to visit in the Philippines if you’re planning for your future vacation.
Manila
The bustling capital of the Philippines — Manila is home to some of the iconic historic attractions such as Intramuros and Fort Santiago. From its cobbled streets to museums to world heritage sites such as San Agustin Church, Manila is a tourist epicenter for anyone visiting the country for the first time. Also, while looking for the flights to Manila, book in advance for the better deals.
Boracay
Boracay, famed as the beach capital of the Philippines is an ultimate paradise. With over 12 beaches in the Visayas region, Boracay is a popular destination among sunseekers and beach lovers. Some of the popular beaches that you shouldn’t miss are Puka Shell Beach, Cagban Beach, Balinghai Beach and Diniwid Beach to name a few.
Cebu
Located in the central Visayas region, the island of Cebu is one of the best destinations for underwater enthusiasts in the Philippines. From scuba diving to snorkeling to excursions with whale sharks, sea turtles and coral reef, the island of Cebu has plenty of underwater activities to entice you. However, the metropolitan area of the city Cebu has a lot of cathedrals and museums to entice history buffs.
Banaue
One of the remarkable sites to witness in the Philippines are the rice terraces of Banaue. The splendid green agricultural landscape looks spectacular when the first ray of the sun glistened during sunrise. The fog and cloud lift above the mountain and the view of the landscape is just magical. You can also visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the vicinity such as Batad Rice Terraces and the Bangaan Rice Terraces.
Baguio
Unlike other cities in the Philippines surrounded by water, Baguio is nestled in a mountainous region surrounded by pine forests on Luzon Island. That’s why it is also known as the City of Pines. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails to spend time with nature. Do visit a Session Road to take a glimpse of local life and culture.
Bohol
If you’re fond of natural beauty, the central Visayas region on the island of Bohol offers a laid back life. Bohol is also home to Tarsier primate known for their enlarging eyes. It is said that the famous Star Wars character Yoda is inspired by wide-eyed Tarsier. There’s also a UNESCO protected site called Chocolate Hills in Carmen in the vicinity that you can explore. Chocolate Hills is a collection of over 1200 geological formations and in the dry season, it turns brown resembling chocolate candy kisses landscape.
Anthony
July 14, 2020I certainly will visit every city mentioned in here. Can’t wait to travel again!
View CommentBarb
June 5, 2020Boracay looks like heaven to me right now. I’d so love a get away.
View CommentSwathi
June 3, 2020Looks like beautiful place. I would love to visit Phillippines some day. Not sure when but if visit I will keep your list of place to visit in my mind.
View CommentAgnes Dela Cruz
June 3, 2020I have never been to Cebu. I would love to visit the place this Christmas.
View Comment13weekstravel
June 3, 2020Manila and Bohol are on my list of places to see in the Philippines. I really want to see the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. It’s mind blowing how 1,260 hills are all formed that way and they look fantastic.
View CommentLizzie Lau
June 2, 2020I’ve always wanted to visit the Philippines. I’ve seen so many beautiful underwater photos shot there.
View CommentJaime
June 2, 2020Those photos are beautiful! I would love to visit there someday. Thanks for the article!
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