Explore the best places to visit in the Philippines – a country famous for its beautiful views, lively culture, and friendly people. From the amazing beaches of Boracay to the old streets of Vigan, this guide opens the door to the Philippines’ most wonderful sites. Are you looking for adventure, a peaceful beach stay, or a chance to learn about rich culture? The Philippines has it all, offering different experiences to delight every visitor. Join us on a trip through this beautiful archipelago, highlighting must visit places in the Philippines in 2024. Get ready for a journey full of unforgettable moments and the warm welcome of the Filipino people.
Why Should You Visit The Philippines?
Visit the Philippines for a mix of culture and relaxation. Enjoy clear waters and wonderful views at Kayangan Lake in Coron, or explore the historic streets of Vigan. The Banaue Rice Terraces feature remarkable scenery. Beach lovers will adore Boracay’s white sands and Palawan’s pristine shores. Experience affordable luxury, taste local cuisine at Jollibee cafe, or enjoy online casino games for entertainment.
Top Places to Visit in the Philippines
These places show the beauty of the Philippines, from El Nido’s clear waters to the Chocolate Hills. Each offers fun activities, tasty food, and memories to keep.
El Nido
El Nido in Palawan is a great place to see nature and explore. You can fly there from Manila with a short trip to Lio Airport. From Puerto Princesa, a bus ride will cost about 430 PHP and take up to eight hours. A van is faster, taking about 5.5 to 6 hours, and costs between 500 – 700 PHP.
Stay in many places in El Nido, from cheap hostels to fancy resorts. There are good places to eat too, offering different kinds of food. Tours to see the islands and lagoons start at 1,200 PHP. You’ll see beautiful beaches and amazing views.
Chocolate Hills
The Chocolate Hills in Bohol are a group of over 1,000 small hills that look brown in the dry season. They are a well-known sight in the Philippines.
To enjoy El Nido with good weather, plan your visit from December to May. Book places that have generators because power cuts are common. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and something to keep the bugs away. A 4-day trip in El Nido might cost about 7,200 PHP per person, not including your flights and extra spending.
Okada Manila Resort & Casino
Okada Manila Resort & Casino is in Entertainment City, Parañaque, close to Manila’s airport. This is a luxurious place offering a lot, like a big casino, fine dining, and a spa. The casino has many slots and table games. Besides gaming, watch shows, go to clubs, or relax at their spa.
Carlos Reyes, a casino expert from PhilippinesCasinos.ph, highlights the exceptional variety Okada Manila Casino provides, stating, “With over 3,000 electronic gaming machines and 500 table games, Okada Manila stands out among competitors for its gaming options. Its luxury accommodations, coupled with an array of entertainment choices, set a new standard for casino resorts. The inclusion of online casino using GCash capabilities offering convenience and a wide selection of games online.”
Getting there is simple, with options like taxis or rideshares from the airport or Manila. The resort has beautiful rooms and villas for guests. Prices differ, so checking their site or calling them is best for the latest details.
Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is one of the most popular places in the Philippines. Its crown jewel, the Underground River, is a marvel of nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is a local tourist destination itself, offering a blend of excitement and nature. It is a popular place in the Philippines for those looking for ecological wonders and cultural insights.
Tubbataha Reef
Tubbataha Reef, a jewel in the Sulu Sea, is a UNESCO site and a marine sanctuary. This destination is among the best vacation spots in the Philippines for diving. Known worldwide for its rich marine life and coral diversity, Tubbataha is accessible from Puerto Princesa. It is a seasonal tourist spot in the Philippines, best visited from March to June, offering an unparalleled underwater experience.
Jollibee Branches
Jollibee, an iconic Filipino fast-food point, offers a menu that’s a testament to Filipino taste. Known for the Jollibee breakfast and different dishes, it represents a taste of home for many Filipinos and a unique dining experience for travelers. Whether through Jollibee delivery or dining in, visitors are treated to local favorites such as Chickenjoy and Jolly Spaghetti.
Calle Crisologo
Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, is a window into the Philippines’ colonial past. This street is a tourist attraction in the Philippines, where time seems to stand still. Visitors walk on cobblestone streets flanked by ancestral houses that have been preserved or restored to their former glory. It’s part of Vigan’s Heritage Village, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Calle Crisologo is a must-visit place in the Philippines for those interested in history and culture. The best time to explore this area is from December to May, when the weather is dry, making it ideal for leisurely walks and taking in the historical sights.
Intramuros and Fort Santiago
Intramuros and Fort Santiago in Manila represent the historical and cultural heart of the Philippines. Intramuros, known as the Walled City, was the seat of government during the Spanish colonial period. Fort Santiago is a citadel within Intramuros and a key historical tourist attraction in the Philippines. These sites are famous tourist spots in the Philippines for their historical significance and architectural beauty. They offer insights into the country’s colonial past and are must-visit places in the Philippines for history buffs and those looking to understand the Filipino inheritance.
White Beach
White Beach on Boracay Island is one of the Philippines’ tourist spots known worldwide for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. As one of the best vacation spots in the Philippines, White Beach offers different activities, from sunbathing and swimming to exciting nightlife.
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park is a top spot for families and anyone interested in marine life. This park in Manila features sea creatures, penguins, and more. You can even sleep next to an aquarium at Hotel H2O. Tickets vary in price, from about 400 to 1,000 pesos, making it accessible for many visitors.
Rizal Park
Not covered in the sources, but Rizal Park is well-known as a peaceful place with monuments and gardens. It’s a key site in Manila that remembers José Rizal, a national hero. The park is a favorite for leisure and learning about Philippine history.
Danao Adventure Park
While specific details from recent sources weren’t provided, Danao Adventure Park in Bohol is known for zip-lining activities and the canyon swing known as the Plunge. It’s a must-see for travelers.
FAQs about Best Places in the Philippines
What is the prettiest place in the Philippines?
The Philippines is home to many amazing locations, but El Nido, Palawan, often top the list. Its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and hidden lagoons make it a picturesque paradise.
What is the most visited place in the Philippines?
Boracay’s White Beach is among the most visited destinations. Renowned for its powdery white sand and exciting nightlife, it attracts tourists from around the globe.
Where should I go for the first time in the Philippines?
For first-timers, visiting Manila is a great start. It offers a mix of historical sites like Intramuros, modern attractions, and unique dining experiences, including the famous Jollibee menu Philippines. It’s also close to Okada Casino and various Philippine casino options for those interested in entertainment.
Which month is best to visit the Philippines? The best time to visit is from December to February, when the weather is cooler and less humid. It’s the ideal period to explore Philippines tourist spots comfortably.
What are the historical places in the Philippines?
The Philippines boasts several historical sites, including Intramuros in Manila, the walled city from the Spanish colonial period, and the historic churches of Iloilo.
As a tourist who has been coming back to the philippines since 1999 i would say skip manila. Manila is an urban nightmare. If it wasnt for immigration check then I would completely avoid manila.