Manila
The vibrant city of Manila, Philippines, is one of the most exciting destinations in Southeast Asia. From historic sites and world-class shopping malls to authentic cuisine and vibrant nightlife, Manila has something for everyone.
Visitors can explore the city’s colonial history or participate in exciting activities such as taking a jeepney ride or watching an old-fashioned cockfight. There is much to do in Manila and its surrounding areas. You can choose from sightseeing, shopping, and even a day trip to nearby attractions.
Let’s explore some of the best things to do in Manila:
Intramuros
Intramuros (meaning “within the walls”) is a historic city in Manila, Philippines. Originally established as the center of government for Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, it remained until the late 19th century when Manila became the capital of the Philippine Islands. As such, Intramuros offers a unique look into Filipino history with its old city walls, 16th-century churches, ruins of 19th-century cottages and period buildings, and stunning views over Manila Bay.
Within the walls of Intramuros, you will find several iconic landmarks and attractions, including:
- Fort Santiago (built-in 1593),
- San Agustin Church (the oldest stone church in Asia),
- Baluarte de San Andres (the main artillery fortification during WW2) and
- Casa Manila (a museum dedicated to showcasing the Filipino colonial lifestyle).
Each site within Intramuros has its cultural significance – Fort Santiago was where Jose Rizal was held before his execution, and San Agustin Church houses beautiful artworks from renowned local artists from the 1500s.
The cobblestone streets of Intramuros are lined with carriages or kalesas – old-world horse-drawn vehicles used in past centuries. These are popular with visitors wishing to explore this historic area on their terms with a private tour guide who can take you around key sites such as Plaza Roma at Governor’s Residence. You can admire modern Spanish architecture or explore numerous local artisanal boutiques selling unique handicrafts there. In addition to these attractions, Intramuros is also home to prestigious universities like Mapua Institute of Technology and Lyceum of Philippines University – jewels within this historic walled city.
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park is an oceanarium located in the heart of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Situated near the Quirino Grandstand, this park offers a variety of attractions and activities to visitors. It is home to more than 14,000 aquatic animals from 272 species and boasts educated animal shows and marine life theatre presentations.
The Oceanarium features various sections, such as Shark Seas, Fish Spa Area, and Ray Pool, creating a unique underwater experience for its visitors. Visitors can observe marine animals such as manta rays, giant clams, jellyfish, and rare sharks displayed in massive aquariums housing over a million liters of seawater. For example, the Jellyfish Discovery zone showcases more than 1000 jellyfish in its 80-meter tank.
For additional entertainment, rides such as Space Shuttle, Moon Walker, and Cable Car Rides offer thrilling experiences for adrenaline seekers. In addition, the Amphitheatre area provides live educational performances of sea lions, parrots, and dolphins. At the same time, the Interactive Feast offers up-close interaction with marine life through fun activities like fish feeding sessions and photo opportunities with penguins or turtles. Manila Ocean Park also houses souvenir stores with Philippine ocean-themed merchandise. Finally, visit restaurants with delicious seafood meals sourced directly from local fishermen!
Rizal Park
Rizal Park, located in Manila, is a 58-hectare public park that pays homage to the Filipino hero Jose Rizal. It was established during American colonization and served as the meeting site for Filipino patriots who wanted to overthrow the Spanish colonial government.
Today, visitors can enjoy scenic walks through lush tropical gardens with fish-filled lakes and magnificent statues of Rizal and other national heroes that line the parks. There are also plenty of historical avenues to explore where visitors can learn more about Philippine history, including various monuments such as the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, Day One Monument, and Kilometer Zero Marker.
Aside from its educational scope, Rizal Park is also home to several recreational facilities such as a skating rink, pool, and playgrounds. Additionally, cultural activities like dance performances or concerts are regularly held in Rizal Park’s large open-air theater.
Rizal Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking to connect with Philippine heritage or relax and take in its beautiful surroundings.
Cebu
Cebu is a bustling metropolis and the crown jewel of the Visayas region in the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and various activities. As such, it attracts both local and foreign tourists.
In this article, we’ll highlight the top attractions of Cebu, from its impressive beaches to its rich cultural heritage:
Magellan’s Cross
Magellan’s Cross is one of Cebu City’s most popular tourist attractions. Ferdinand Magellan planted the Cross in the city’s heart during his sojourn in the Philippines in 1521. It marks where he, with several native rulers, conducted a ceremony to convert natives to Roman Catholicism.
The main attraction of Magellan’s Cross is a wooden cross encased in a red-tiled roofed structure outside the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. Historians dispute whether these are authentic remains, as authenticated accounts throughout history appear to differ significantly on both matters of description and origin, leaving many skeptics searching for more concrete and definitive evidence. Nevertheless, local legend upholds that these crosses remain to this day, making visiting here all the more fascinating and historical for tourists.
While the Nasipit market caters primarily to seafood lovers, don’t miss out on Magellan’s Cross for an enlightening experience and fantastic photo opportunities!
Osmeña Peak
Osmeña Peak is the highest peak in Cebu, soaring to 1013 meters (3318 feet) above sea level. This mountain peak is situated in the town of Alegria and features incredible views of southeastern Cebu.
The climb up to Osmeña Peak from the jumpoff point at Brgy. Mantalongon, Badian town, usually requires 3-4 hours of trekking, passing through vegetable farmlands and hillsides that offer captivating views.
When hikers reach Osmeña Peak, they are greeted with a stunning panoramic view of one side showing white sand beaches and crystal clear seas while having an ideal vision of Badian’s jungles on the other side – a perfect blend of nature’s displays! Some visitors even bring camping gear to hang out at Osmeña Peak overnight and witness an unforgettable sunrise early morning as its warmth spreads over southeastern Cebu. It truly is an incredible experience!
Cebu Taoist Temple
Cebu Taoist Temple is located on the hills of Beverly Hills in Cebu City, Philippines, and is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds. The 120-foot-tall temple was built in 1972 by Filipino-Chinese members of the Chinese community. The aim was to honor their faith and celebrate Taoism through prayer and offerings.
The temple features a seven-story pagoda with altars for a god and goddess and two lesser deities. An ornate staircase leads to the main altar, where gardeners welcome guests who offer solemn prayers from behind doors made from redwood imported from China. Inside, two giant pools of colored stones reflect canopies clustered with lotus blossom sculptures. An aisle lined with bell-shaped lanterns winds up the steps toward the altar where the symbolic representation of Buddha’s teachings is displayed.
After good luck has been invoked, “miracles” can occur by making cash donations; this act is said to bring good fortune in return. On special occasions, Taoist priests perform traditional rituals at certain shrines around the complex area, attracting tourists and citizens alike who come to enjoy its archaic aura.
Bohol
Bohol is a fantastic destination in the Philippines that offers stunning views, unique landmarks, and incredible activities. From pristine beaches to the iconic Chocolate Hills, and memorable wildlife encounters, Bohol is an ideal place to explore while visiting the country.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the attractions and activities that make Bohol so special:
Chocolate Hills
The Chocolate Hills of Bohol province in the Philippines is one of the country’s most iconic natural attractions. These unique mounds of rounded grass-covered hills vary from 30 to 50 meters in height and are scattered throughout the area, covering an area of more than 50 sq km. The hills look like giant Hershey’s Kisses set against a blue sky and palm trees.
Legend has it that these hills were formed when two giants fought, and their battles caused mountains to form in their exhaustion. Another popular legend tells how these ponds were created by an enormous, thirsty giant who wept in frustration when he couldn’t find a drop of water, leaving behind huge tears that made the distinctive hill formations.
Whatever their creation story, the Chocolate Hills today make up one of Bohol’s most visited sights. Tourists enjoy hiking around the towering mounds or taking a cable car ride up one of them for an incredible bird’s eye view across hundreds of other hills stretching toward the horizon!
Panglao Island
Panglao Island is an Indonesian-Filipino island located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. The island lies off the coast of northeastern Bohol, and due to its natural beauty, tranquil waters, and white sand beaches, it is becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
Divided by a small but swift channel, the two sides of Panglao Island are connected by San Pedor Bridge, which connects it to mainland Bohol and the Garcia Hernandez-Batuan Bridge, which crosses between its two main islands, Doljo on one side and Panglao on the other.
The main attractions of Panglao are its resorts and beaches, which provide ample opportunities for relaxation, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and other leisure activities. Popular spots include Momo Beach on Doljo Peninsula; Alona Beach; Nagbodota Cave; Pamilacan Island – an uninhabited deserted island known for dolphin-watching visits. Cantagay Cave Pool; Hinagdanan Cave – an underground swimming pool reputed to have been a favorite haunt of President Fidel Ramos during his term in office; Danaom Beach–a serene beach where one can go jet skiing and banana boating, among others.
Aside from its beaches and recreational opportunities, this chain of islands also boasts spectacular biological reserves, including a coastal park and bolong (reefs) for snorkeling or dive sites within easy reach by boat. In addition, it has become home to some endangered species, including sea turtles that lay their eggs here during certain months or monsoon season. Notable wildlife includes a variety of bird species, such as kingfishers near rivers or inland areas, as well as colossal monitor lizards often seen along seashores hunting for food.
These places are great for eco-adventure trips, including spelunking tours into nearby caves, each filled with fascinating geological formations. In addition, geological enthusiasts can explore beautiful works of nature’s creations hidden deep inside these caves on Panglao Island. Tropical vegetation fit for an eco-tourism paradise getaway is truly breathtaking to behold!
Tarsier Sanctuary
Located within the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, Bohol, the tarsier is one of the smallest primates in the world and is considered a flagship species for conservation. The sanctuary is a tourist attraction that features live tarsiers exhibited in their natural habitats of man-made natural enclosures.
The Philippine tarsier (Tarsius syrichta) is an endangered species found only on three islands in The Philippines: Samar, Leyte, and Bohol. At 4-5 inches tall, these animals are easily identified by their huge eyes and long tails, which enable them to move quickly among branches and catch prey.
Visitors who join guided tours can learn all about the habits of this unique animal, as well as its environment and other wildlife species found there. Guests can view these elusive creatures up close while also viewing several educational displays within a facility accredited by the People’s Initiative for Learning & Development (PILD). In addition, experienced guides can lead walks through local habagatns (rainforest) trails managed by Tou’ Baway Magbabaya Foundation Nature Reserve.
The foundation takes responsibility for protecting endangered native wildlife, including wildcats, monitor lizards, and several varieties of birds – as well as locally endangered plant species such as santanalna lammanan grasslands and ‘kampilan’ hardwood trees – found within the nearby forests.
Palawan
Palawan is an island province located in the western Philippines known for its stunning tropical beaches and rich biodiversity. The spectacular limestone cliffs, crystal clear turquoise waters, and various outdoor activities make it a perfect destination for a beach holiday.
With its stunning natural beauty, easy accessibility, and various activities, Palawan is a great destination to explore and relax.
El Nido
El Nido is located in the northern part of Palawan, within the municipality of the same name. It is one of the most popular travel destinations in the region, with its stunning crystal-blue waters, coral reefs, and rugged limestone cliffs that attract travelers from all over the world. Perched along Bacuit Bay, El Nido offers visitors a wide range of activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming.
Also located within El Nido are numerous islands and coves that provide some of the best spots for island-hopping. Several tour attractions have been developed around these areas, including:
- Small Lagoon (a scenic lagoon with limestone formations)
- Big Lagoon (a magnificent body of water surrounded by towering limestone cliffs)
- Cadlao Island (home to numerous species of fish)
- Snake Island (a small island with beach access)
For those interested in exploring a more rugged landscape, El Nido National Park is an ideal spot for trekking and nature appreciation.
In addition to these attractions, El Nido has many restaurants where delicious seafood dishes can be enjoyed, or succulent local fruits can be sampled. Accommodations range from beachside bungalows to resort hotels providing ample amenities at affordable prices. With its picturesque coastal scenery and beautiful blue waters, El Nido is truly a paradise.
Tubbataha Reefs
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a protected area located in the Sulu Sea of the Philippines. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important marine habitat. It comprises two immense coral reefs, North and South Tubbataha, and numerous sandbars visible only during low tide.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is known for its incredible diversity of marine life, making it an ideal destination for divers from around the world. Home to hundreds of species of fish and dozens of species of coral, Tubbataha offers some unforgettable experiences for underwater adventurers. Enjoy the vibrant colors of sponges, whale sharks, manta rays, and other large elasmobranchs that can often be encountered here. Tubbataha is also home to colonies of nesting seabirds and endangered turtles – hawksbill turtles lay eggs here throughout the year.
The park’s remote location makes it difficult to access, but this ensures its undisturbed beauty remains intact; visitors are limited each year so as not to disturb fragile ecosystems within the park boundaries. The exquisite natural wonder that awaits you in these reefs must be experienced first-hand – a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the Philippines. Located in Palawan Province, it is an 8.2-kilometer-long river that winds its way through a cave system and empties into the South China Sea. The river is carved by nature and adorned with breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique formations. This subterranean waterway was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.
Visiting Puerto Princesa Underground River involves a boat ride along its course. It provides views of hundreds of birds flying over the river banks and ghostly spectacles such as human bones embedded in some limestone walls due to pirates invading the area hundreds of years ago. It also involves getting much closer to limestone formations, which have taken thousands of years to form, creating enigmatic shapes such as petrified chambers, columns, and pagodas seen up close.
Guided tours also pass through “The Curtain” – an impressive 20-meter high curtain formation composed of limestone – as well as what’s known as “The Dome” or “Cathedral.” Visitors can witness bats living inside huge cavities in the walls surrounded by white calcite crystals glimmering in the light for one’s viewing pleasure. Truly a site not to be missed when visiting Palawan!
Davao
Davao is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines and is known for its stunning beaches and nature reserves. The city is home to bustling nightlife, a wide range of activities and attractions, and plenty of good food. Davao should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for the perfect place to go on vacation.
Let’s explore all the fantastic things Davao has to offer:
- Apo
Mt. Apo is a dormant volcano in south-central Mindanao, measuring 2,956 meters tall. It’s the highest peak in the entire Philippine archipelago. It is known for its breathtaking scenery and unique biodiversity – the volcano hosts 137 bird species and approximately 2,500 plant species, 162 of which are endemic to Mt. Apo only. In addition, it is home to several cultural heritage sites: the crater lake of Kalatong, Anengon (Ritual Pool), Walo-Walo (View Point), Wawa Dam, and Basak Lake, among others.
Located in Davao City, Mt. Apo is also known for its challenging climb. Its traversal features ridges and valleys with lush forests and breathtaking views of Davao Gulf, Samal Island, and other neighboring towns. As such, tourists often trek to explore some of these attractions and get a glimpse of stunning sunrise or sunset at its peak – something highly sought after by avid mountaineers all over the country!
Philippine Eagle Center
Located on the slopes of Mt. Apo in Davao City, the Philippine Eagle Center was established in 1992 to promote the conservation and recovery of Philippine Eagles, one of the world’s rarest and largest birds of prey.
Home to dozens of real-time eagle species, such as the Philippine Eagle, and Spotted Giant Sparrowhawk, this unique center is a sanctuary for avian species and other threatened creatures like mammals and reptiles.
At the center, visitors can observe how eagles nest, watch their feeding habits, learn about their feeding ecology using interactive displays, or enjoy sightseeing at its “Aviary Walk” and “Raptor Trail.” Visitors can also explore an interpretation center where educational lectures take place, including a slide show on raptors and a section devoted to being a raptor naturalist.
Furthermore, you can participate in educational programs held regularly within the area or join bird-watching excursions outside near Davaio Gulf or Samal Island for scavenger hunts.
Malagos Garden Resort
Davao, one of the city’s most visited tourist destinations in the Philippines, is home to several attractions. One of them is the Malagos Garden Resort. Located at the foothills of Mount Talomo, this eco-tourism haven is within a 91-hectare Balut Island reservation leased by its owner, Don Antonio Floirendo Sr.
Aside from accommodating day tourists and luscious housing foliage and distinctive fauna, The Malagos Garden Resort also has several facilities dedicated to leisure and relaxation, such as:
- an infinity pool overlooking the canyon
- a 400-meter Zipline around the resort grounds
- an open-air horseback riding adventure for guests with ample experience and control over horses
- zip car ATV rides around hilly arrangements and elevations up to 30 meters high!
Other activities include seasonal river flow adventures such as kayaking or river tubing in marble-white powdery sand while crossing streams surrounded by lush vegetation.
The Malagos Garden Resort also features two distinct amenities – the Shed at Malagos State University (MSU) campus, where visitors can use outdoor dining areas or go hiking around its forestland together with Mindanao’s local haribon species. Likewise, a selection of spa treatments could be obtained inside its picturesque mountainside lodge amidst its scenic backdrop. Lastly, this attraction provides specialized overnight stays for eager guests looking for an intimate escapade off urban dwellings – each room with undeniable comfort plus ancient artifacts from indigenous tribes!