Bohol, an idyllic province located in the Central Visayas region, is one of the most captivating destinations in the Philippines. Noted for its remarkable natural beauty, pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, Bohol is home to the surreal Chocolate Hills, a geographical marvel of over 1,200 uniformly shaped hills that turn brown in the dry season, giving them their name. It's also home to the world's smallest primate, the Philippine tarsier, and the tranquil Loboc River. One can explore the mesmerizing underwater world through diving and snorkeling, visit centuries-old churches in Baclayon and Loboc, or simply bask in the tranquil settings of Panglao Island's white sandy beaches. Bohol is a perfect blend of nature and history, making it a unique and unforgettable travel destination.
Nested in the heart of the Philippines, Cebu City is a bustling and vibrant metropolis that beautifully amalgamates ancient heritage with modern conveniences. As the oldest city in the country, it's crammed with historical treasures, including the 16th-century Basilica del Santo Niño and the monumental cross erected by Portuguese and Spanish explorers led by Ferdinand Magellan. Cebu suits gastronomes to a T, with its sumptuous local cuisine that boasts the iconic 'Lechon Cebu'. Known as the 'Queen City of the South,' it promises an impressively varied nightlife scene, myriad shopping opportunities in colossal malls and traditional markets, and significant business and trade centers. The city's proximity to pristine beaches and dive spots also enhances its allure as a must-visit travel destination.
Makati City, situated in the heart of bustling Metro Manila, Philippines, is a pulsating hub of entertainment and commerce that unfailingly charms its visitors with a dynamic blend of the traditional and modern Filipino lifestyle. Infamous as the country's premier financial and economic district, Makati is home to numerous multinational corporations, foreign embassies, towering skyscrapers, swanky shopping malls, and luxury residences. But beyond its modern façade, the city is also a cultural treasure trove, offering fascinating museums like the Ayala Museum and Yuchengco Museum, artistic spaces like the Pinto Art Museum, and heritage sites such as the Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church all embedded amidst lush parks like the Ayala Triangle Gardens. Whether for business travel or leisurely exploration, Makati City paints a vibrant picture of the Philippines' progress without losing touch with its rich past.
Basco is a scenic destination nestled on the serene Batan Island, the northernmost part of the Philippines, in the province of Batanes. This captivating town is best known for its breathtaking landscapes which include rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and stunning beaches that mimic the tranquil beauty of Scotland. It houses landmarks like Basco Lighthouse, an iconic structure offering panoramic views of the South China Sea, and the Vayang Rolling Hills, a vast stretch of lush mountainside ending abruptly in dramatic cliff faces descending into the ocean. Visit the resilient stone houses of the Ivatan ethnicity, and enjoy the intimate connection with nature in Mount Iraya, Basco's highest point. Basco’s unique blend of raw natural beauty and rich cultural heritage offers an unparalleled experience for the adventurous traveler.
Nestled in the heart of the Mountain Province in the Northern Philippines, Sagada is an enchanting tourist destination renowned for its unique attractions. It is famously known for its mystical Hanging Coffins, an ancient funeral tradition that dramatically embellishes the face of Echo Valley. Also, for the adventure seekers, there are myriad activities such as exploring the extensive Sumaguing and Lumiang cave systems, trekking through vibrant rice terraces, witnessing the magical sunrise at Kiltepan Viewpoint, and dipping into the refreshing waters of Bomod-ok Falls. With its cool and temperate weather, the area is also known for its locally grown coffee and other organic produce. It's a region that seamlessly blends cultural heritage, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures, making it an unforgettable travel journey.
Davao City, the crown jewel of the southern Philippines, is nestled in the province of Davao del Sur. Known as the "Durian Capital of the Philippines," Davao offers a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions that make it a must-visit travel destination. This city boasts the majestic Mount Apo, the highest peak in the country, with lush landscapes and diverse wildlife capturing the hearts of hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Davao is also home to the renowned Philippine Eagle Center, providing shelter to its namesake bird, an endangered species. This vibrant city is famous for the Kadayawan Festival, a week-long celebration showcasing cultural heritage and bountiful harvest. Along with its modern shopping malls, tantalizing food scene, and warm, friendly locals, Davao City promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Tagaytay, a captivating city located in the Cavite province of the Philippines, is a favorite getaway spot nestled in the heartland of Luzon Island. Known as the country's second summer capital, it sits over 2,000 feet above sea level, boasting cooler climates than the lower-lying areas. Famed for its stunning panoramic view of the magnificent Taal Volcano sitting in the middle of the serene Taal Lake, Tagaytay provides an escape straight into nature's heart. Offering a smorgasbord of amazing cuisines, breathtaking views, and exciting activities such as horseback riding, zip lining, and ferry rides to Taal Volcano, it entices tourists globally. Furthermore, its idyllic weather and paradisiacal gardens weave a tapestry of relaxation, creating a solace from the bustling city life.
Marinduque, an unspoiled heart-shaped jewel in the Philippine archipelago, is situated in the south of the capital, Manila, and is part of the Mimaropa region. Known as the "Lenten Capital of the Philippines", it is famous for its Moriones Festival, a colorful week-long event celebrated during Holy Week, where locals don masks and armor in the guise of Roman soldiers. Adorned with beautiful white beaches, clear waters, and sprawling landscapes, it serves as a haven for nature lovers, while its historic towns and century-old churches allure the history buffs. Notably, the island offers a unique experience of spelunking in its numerous caves and diving into its underwater caves, perfect for adventure seekers. From rustic charm to rich culture and tradition, Marinduque represents the quintessential Filipino experience.
Coron, a magnificent gem nested in the Philippine archipelago, is a captivating travel destination located on Busuanga Island, one of the provinces of Palawan. Famous for its world-class WWII-era wreck diving, this town's treasured attractions extend far beyond its underwater spectacles. Surrounded by jaw-dropping turquoise seas, emerald green lagoons, and tropical white sand beaches, it offers a spectacular array of marine life and landscapes that simply tantalize the senses. Whether your preference is exploring its plush coral gardens, soaking up in the hot springs, scaling Mount Tapyas for a panoramic view of the town and islands, or simply basking on one of its pristine beaches, Coron presents a delightful escapade for every traveler.
Bacolod City, otherwise known as the "City of Smiles," is a gem nestled in the Northwestern coast of the island of Negros in the Philippines. Famous for its annual MassKara Festival, this vibrant city comes to life with colorful masks and street dances captivating local and international tourists alike. Housing the iconic San Sebastian Cathedral and the Palacio Episcopal, Bacolod depicts a mesmerizing blend of centuries-old history and modern metropolitan progress. It is highly recognized for its local delicacies, such as the sweet Chicken Inasal and Bacolod-style Pancit Molo, attracting gastronomic adventurers. With its luscious parks, exciting local markets, and welcoming locals, Bacolod City offers unforgettable Filipino hospitality and a travel experience that's uniquely its own.
Daet, located in Camarines Norte, Luzon, Philippines, is an exciting travel destination known for its rich history, cultural activities, and exceptional natural beauty. It's renowned for many attractions such as the most historical sight, the first Rizal Monument in the world. The town also takes pride in its excellent surf spots, including Bagasbas Beach, which attracts surfing enthusiasts from around the globe. Daet's charm also lies in its vibrant festivals like the Pinyasan Festival, a vibrant celebration showcasing the town's sweetest produce, the Formosa Pineapple. Whether you're a fan of history, a nature lover, a surfing enthusiast, or a food explorer, Daet holds a sanctuary of experiences worth exploring!
Quezon City, located at the heart of the tropical paradise of the Philippines, is one of the most vibrant and populous cities in the country. Known as the country's hub of information technology and entertainment, it is home to the towering ABS-CBN Broadcasting Center and GMA Network Center where the nation's most popular television shows and films are produced. It also houses the sprawling campus of the University of the Philippines, the nation's premier university. Quezon City boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and gastronomy, with attractions such as Quezon Memorial Circle, Art in Island Museum, and a myriad of local markets and food hubs like Maginhawa Street, known for its diverse culinary offerings.
Catanduanes, often referred to as the "Happy Island," is a mesmerizing tropical paradise tucked away in the easternmost fringe of the Philippine Archipelago, in the Bicol Region. Encompassed by the vast Pacific Ocean, this hidden gem is best known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush, undulating terrains. Adventure seekers flock to the Majestic Waves of Puraran, one of the top surfing destinations in the world, whereas nature enthusiasts get bewitched by the island's diverse ecological attractions including the enchanting Maribina and Nahulugan Falls, century-old churches, and the lush, scenic Binurong Point. The island also takes pride in hosting vibrant local festivals and manufacturing handcrafted abaca products as part of their rich cultural heritage.
Sorsogon is a captivating coastal province located at the southernmost tip of Luzon Island in the Philippines. Renowned for its idyllic beaches, rustic charm, and diverse marine ecosystem, Sorsogon boasts plenty of natural attractions that have caught the attention of global travelers. It's widely known for Donsol, where tourists can experience swimming with whale sharks, the world's largest fish, in their natural habitat. Other prominent sites include Bulusan Volcano Natural Park, home to one of the country's most active volcanoes enveloped by a beautiful lake, and Matnog's Subic Beach, featuring pinkish white sand. Sorsogon's vibrant festivals, local wildlife, and outstanding local cuisine offer a rich cultural immersion that beautifully encapsulates the Philippine's unique island lifestyle.
Nestled in the mountainous region of Northern Luzon in the Philippines, Banaue enthralls its visitors with the majestic grandeur of its world-renowned Banaue Rice Terraces. These 2000-year-old terraces, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World", were carved into the mountains by the Ifugao tribespeople, ancestors of the indigenous people living in the region today. Apart from exploring these well-preserved terraces, tourists can also wander through Banaue's lush landscapes, visit local traditional villages, engage in outdoor activities like hiking and trekking or simply get immersed in the rich Ifugao culture. This highland haven offers travelers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and thrilling adventure.
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Luzon, Baler is a small town in the Philippines that's widely recognized as the "Birthplace of Surfing in the Philippines." Rich in culture and history, Baler isn't just famous for its exhilarating waves; it's also home to a myriad of historic sites including the 400-year-old Balete Tree and the historic Baler Church. The town is encircled by lush mountains and numerous waterfalls, offering countless adventure trails for hiking enthusiasts. A trip here would also remain incomplete without trying local delicacies such as 'Pancit Pusit' and 'Binaliktad na Manok'. Baler truly captures the soul of a traveler, with its harmonious blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and the exciting sport of surfing.
Angono, a captivating municipality nestled in the province of Rizal, Philippines, is publicly acclaimed as the "Art Capital of the Philippines." Known as a prominent cradle of Philippine art and culture, Angono brims with vibrant artistic expression, with every corner revealing remarkable murals, sculpture, traditional music, and dance. Renowned for being the hometown of two National Artists, Lucio San Pedro for music and Carlos "Botong" Francisco for visual arts, it offers a unique testament to Filipino creativity through the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs—an archaeological site showcasing ancient rock engravings, some of the oldest in the country. As a gastronomic haven, Angono celebrates the Higantes Festival, a boisterous, colorful event dedicated to St. Clement, where giant papier-mâché figures fill the streets, and sumptuous local cuisines like the signature balaw-balaw and restorative itik dishes are lovingly served. Angono, with its rich tapestry of art, heritage, and cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination pulsating with authentic Filipino culture.
Lucban is a picturesque town nestled at the foot of the mystical Mount Banahaw in the province of Quezon, Philippines. Known for its rich historic and cultural heritage, the town boasts a blend of modernity and tradition, represented by its Spanish-era houses and bustling marketplaces. Notably, Lucban is famous for the 'Pahiyas Festival', a vibrant and colorful festivity depicting bountiful harvests. Tourists are also enticed by its local culinary delights like Pancit Habhab and Lucban Longganisa. Whether you're an adventurer, culture enthusiast, or food lover, Lucban has something to offer, capturing the spirit of the Philippines in one enchanting town.
La Union, located on the western coast of the Luzon island in the Philippines, is a charming province that is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, attractive beaches, and diverse cultural heritage. Often referred to as the “Surfing Capital of the North”, La Union draws surfers from across the globe to ride its impressive waves, particularly those found in the town of San Juan. Beyond surfing, visitors can explore its stunning waterfalls, wander in its botanic gardens, visit local crafts villages, or enjoy its rich and flavorful Ilocano cuisine. With its welcoming locals and a vibrant array of engaging activities, La Union truly offers a unique destination for an unforgettable travel experience.
Located in the heart of Benguet Province in the northern region of the Philippines, Baguio, commonly referred to as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines," is a hill station city known for its cool climate and panoramic views of rolling hills and lush pine forests. This charming city offers a variety of attractions including the verdant Burnham Park, the vibrant Baguio Public Market that sells local produce and handicrafts, and the eclectic Session Road filled with shops and eateries. Well-loved for its annual Panagbenga, or Flower Festival, Baguio showcases lavish floats and costumes that take over the city in an explosion of colors and creativity. This high-altitude paradise is a perfect retreat away from the tropical heat of the Philippines.
Rank | City |
---|---|
1 | Bohol |
2 | Cebu City |
3 | Makati City |
4 | Basco |
5 | Sagada |
6 | Davao |
7 | Tagaytay |
8 | Marinduque |
9 | Coron |
10 | Bacolod |