Philippines Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know for a Fun and Hassle-Free Trip

Of the 7,641 islands in the Philippines, each has its own magnificence and peculiarities that make visitors long for more. Hence, it’s not surprising that tourists from around the world dream of an unforgettable Philippines travel experience. 

From some of the world’s best islands and jaw-dropping lagoons to breathtaking rolling hills and rich cultural heritage, a holiday to Philippines will surely be one for the books.

Most Beautiful Places to Visit for Philippines Holidays 2021

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing Philippines vacation or an adventure of a lifetime, the Pearl of the Orient Seas does not disappoint. Here we’ve rounded up all the best places to visit in Philippines you should add to your bucket list.

1. Palawan – The paradise on Earth
2. Batanes – Home of the breathtaking hills
3. Boracay – Among the world’s best islands
4. Cebu – A one-stop travel destination
5. Siargao – Surfing Capital of the Philippines
6. Bohol – Home of the tarsiers and Chocolate Hills
7. Ifugao – Home of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Banaue Rice Terraces
8. Camiguin – Where there are more volcanoes than towns
9. Ilocos – The place that lets you travel back in time
10. Manila – The Philippines’ capital
11. Tagaytay – Second summer capital of the Philippines
12. Batangas – For beach-lovers and hikers
13. Rizal – Home of the most stunning mountains and waterfalls
14. Zamboanga – A south’s gem
15. Siquijor – The mystic province

What’s inside this blog?

• Best Places to Visit in the Philippines
• Best Time to Visit Philippines
• What to Eat in the Philippines
• How to Get Around
• Visa Guidelines
• Tips in Exploring the Philippines
• Frequently Asked Questions About Philippines Travel

Read this Philippines travel guide to help you prepare for your trip and discover the most popular and offbeat treasures you wouldn’t want to miss. 

Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

Here are some of the most beautiful tourist spots in the Philippines you should visit:

1. Palawan

With Palawan’s jaw-dropping beauty, it’s not surprising at all why foreigners love this province. From the clear blue-green waters of lagoons and colorful reefs to pristine white beaches, what more can you ask for? So id you want a holiday to Philippines that will let you feel you’re in paradise, Palawan is the place to be.

Suggested article: The Paradise on Earth: Glorious Palawan Tourist Spot That Will Make You Fall In-Love With Nature

Attractions

Puerto Princesa

• Puerto Princesa Underground River
• Baker’s Hill
• Honda Bay
• Cowrie Island

El Nido

Coron

• Hidden Beach
• Nacpan Beach
• Marimegmeg Beach
• Las Cabañas Beach

• Kayangan Lake
• Twin Lagoons
• Malcapuya Island
• Siete Pecados Marine Park
• Calauit Island Safari

Must-read: 3-Day Palawan Itinerary: 13 Must-Try Things to Do in Coron for a Memorable Trip

Things to do

• Swimming
• Island-hopping
• Kayaking
• Diving
• Hiking
• Snorkeling

Best budget hotels in Palawan

2. Batanes

Upon seeing Batanes, don’t be too surprised when you hear someone (or yourself) singing the hills are alive. Breathtaking views, fascinating and rich culture, and the kindest locals you’d ever meet—these pretty much sums up why tourists in Philippines and from other countries want to go to Batanes. This province may be the smallest in the Philippines but it sure has a lot to offer when it comes to majestic scenery thanks to the jaw-dropping Batanes tourist spots.

Related article: 13 Mind-Blowing Facts About Batanes You Must Haven’t Heard of Yet

Attractions

• Racuh A Payaman (Marlboro Country)
• Alapad Hill and Rock Formation
• Tayid Lighthouse
• Honesty Coffee Shop
• Morong Beach
• Valugan Boulder Beach
• House of Dakay
• Savidug Stone Houses
• Vayang Rolling Hills

Things to do

• Swimming
• Hiking
• Boating
• Appreciating nature

3. Boracay

As if Boracay still needs an introduction, this island never stops making a name for itself. It is famous for its oh-so-fine white sand beaches, amazing nightlife, and fun water activities letting you enjoy all the things you want in one place. Whether you’re just aiming to get a tan at the world-famous beach or planning to try the heart-pounding water activities, Boracay tourist spots will give you everything you need.

Per the latest travel advisory Philippines, Boracay is one of the thriving tourist destinations in the country that has finally reopened amid the pandemic so make sure to add this island to your Philippines holidays 2021.

Suggested read: Travel Hacks: Guide to Boracay Budget Trip Under PHP 8000

Attractions

• White Beach
• Crystal Cove Island
• Bulabog Beach
• Diniwid Beach
• Puka Shell Beach
• D’Mall
• Ariel’s Point
• Ilig-Iligan Beach
• Willy’s Rock

Things to do

• Island-hopping
• Swimming
• Partying
• Food tripping
• Diving
• Parasailing

Best budget hotels in Boracay

1. Matt Guesthouse
   Price from PHP 1,800/night
   Book now

2. One Hagdan Villas
   Price from PHP 
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4. Cebu

If you’re looking for a one-stop destination for your holiday to Philippines, Cebu is a melting pot for food, arts, culture, religion, and island life. The province does not disappoint its visitors with its amazingly beautiful Cebu tourist spots and fun activities to try. Dubbed as the Queen City of the South, Cebu offers a unique travel experience as it is a place where city and paradise meet.

Related article: Cebu Itinerary Guide: Best Places to Go & Must-Try Activities

Attractions

• Oslob
• Bantayan Island
• Malapascua Island
• Kawasan Falls
• Simala Shrine
• Temple of Leah
• Sirao Flower Garden
• Pescador Island
• Magellan’s Cross
• Fort San Pedro

Things to do

• Island-hopping
• Swimming with whale sharks
• City tour
• Learning about history
• Canyoneering
• Food tripping
• Attending Sinulog Festival

Best budget hotels in Cebu

1. Papa Tasi Lakeside Hotel and Park
   Price from PHP 750/night
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2. ZEN Rooms Alicia Tower Cebu
   Price from PHP 1,100/night
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3. Arjaymay Apartelle
   Price from PHP 1,200/night
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4. ZEN Rooms Basic Gerty’s Place Moalboal
   Price from PHP 1,500/night
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5. ZEN Premium Banilad
   Price from PHP 1,600/night
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5. Siargao

Another tourist destination that has reopened for tourists is Siargao according to the latest travel advisory Philippines. This teardrop-shaped island will make you fall for its pristine white beaches, coconut woodlands, the clearest waters you’ve ever seen, and the sensational waves perfect for Siargao surfing.

What makes Siargao tourist spots an ideal travel destination is that it has remained unspoiled, remote, sparsely developed, and still relatively under the radar, making it even more appealing to travelers who are craving natural beauty and a slower pace. This tourist spot in Mindanao will surely captivate your heart.

Must-read: Siargao Travel Guide: What Every First-Timer Should Know Before Going to Siargao

Attractions

• Guyam Island
• Naked Island
• Daku Island
• Magpupungko Rock Pools
• Coconut Street
• Cloud 9
• Sugba Lagoon
• Maasin River

Things to do

• Island-hopping
• Surfing
• Diving
• Boating
• Swimming

Best budget hotels in Siargao

1. ByGrace Pension House
   Price from PHP 1,300/night
   Book now

2. ZEN Rooms Eunas Siargao
   Price from PHP 2,500/night
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6. Bohol

Home to the iconic Chocolate Hills and the world’s smallest primates, Bohol is a great tourist spot in the Philippines that will surely surprise you. With its stunning Bohol tourist spots, it’s no wonder that travelers and locals alike couldn’t help but be amazed. From historic sites and pristine beaches to waterfalls and a majestic cave, Bohol never fails to stun its visitors. Bohol should be on your list of must-visit places for your Philippines vacation.

Must-read: Bohol Itinerary: Best Places to Visit and Budget Guide All in One

Attractions

• Panglao Island
• Chocolate Hills
• Hinagdanan Cave
• Loboc River
• Bamboo Hanging Bridge
• Man-Made Forest
• Anda Beach
• Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary
• Danao Adventure Park 
• Balicasag Island 
• Baclayon Church
• Alona Beach

Things to do

• Island-hopping
• Swimming
• Food tripping
• Getting up close with the tarsiers
• Dining at the river

7. Ifugao

Ifugao Province is one of the most popular yet somewhat offbeat destinations in the Philippines. This is where you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage Site Banaue Rice Terraces. But it’s not just the Banaue Rice Terraces you should look forward to because there are many other places in Ifugao that will teach you the traditional way of life and culture.

Before you book your trip, make sure to check the travel restriction to this Philippines destination.

Attractions

• Banaue Rice Terraces
• Batad Rice Terraces
• Hungduan Rice Terraces
• Bangaan Rice Terraces
• Hapao Rice Terraces
• Tappiya Falls
• Hanging Bridge
• Bogyah Hot Spring

Things to do

• Hiking
• Swimming
• Appreciating nature
• Food tripping

8. Camiguin

What was once an obscure location is now among the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. With so many Instagrammable Camiguin tourist spots, the Island Born of Fire becomes a favorite travel destination for a holiday to Philippines.

From the pristine Camiguin Island tourist spots and jaw-dropping waterfalls to the glorious underwater world and historic structures from the Spanish colonial era, Camiguin definitely makes up the ultimate feed goal that every ‘grammer aims for!

Suggested article: Camiguin Island: A Travel Guide to the Island Born of Fire

Attractions

• White Island Camiguin
• Mantigue Island Nature Park
• Sunken Cemetery
• Tuasan Falls
• Katibawasan Falls
• Guiob Church Ruins
• Burias Shoal
• Soda Water Swimming Pool
• Mt. Hibok-Hibok
• Ardent Hot Spring
• Camiguin Aviation

Things to do

• Island-hopping
• Swimming
• Hiking

9. Ilocos

Mention Ilocos and Vigan always come to mind. While it’s undoubtedly fascinating, Ilocos is more than the cobblestone streets of Vigan. The province is known for its rich culture and history, heritage sites, adventure parks, and of course, food. But this time, we’ll be putting the highlight on the beautiful places to visit in Ilocos Sur.

Per the latest travel advisory Philippines, Ilocos has reopened for local tourists but make sure to check the requirements to travel to this Philippines destination before booking your trip.

Related article: 18 Must-Visit Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots for a Trip to Remember

Attractions

• Paoay Church
• Calle Crisologo
• Syquia Mansion Museum
• RG Jar Factory
• Bantay Church Bell Tower
• Baluarte Resort
• Vigan Cathedral
• Crisologo Museum
• Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone
• Malacañang of the North
• Pagudpud Beach

Things to do

• Heritage tour
• Exploring the historic sites
• Food tripping
• Visiting a zoo

10. Manila

Before the pandemic, tourists in Philippines love exploring Manila whether they’re from the city or nearby provinces because of the tons of amazing spots here. Manila has a rich history, almost all areas have become great tourist spots in Manila that everyone wants to visit. From the preserved architecture brought by Spanish colonialism to outstanding Filipino culture, Manila has everything you’d ask for!

Related article: 8 Amazing Tourist Spots in Manila That You Can Visit for Free

Attractions

• Intramuros
• Escolta
• National Museum of the Philippines
• Rizal Park
• Manila Baywalk
• San Agustin Church
• Manila Cathedral
• Fort Santiago
• Manila Ocean Park
• Dessert Museum
• Binondo

Things to do

• Walking tour
• Visiting the historic sites
• Food tripping
• Museum-hopping 

Best budget hotels in Manila

1. The Colonial Residences
   Price from PHP 2,000/night
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2. Baymont Suites & Residences
   Price from PHP 2,300/night
   Book now

3. The Studio 18 Residences
   Price from PHP 1,800/night
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4. ZEN Rooms V Plaza Manila
   Price from PHP 800/night
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5. BDS Bay Area
   Price from PHP 2,900/night
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6. Broadway Court QC
   Price from PHP 1,100/night
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7. ZEN Rooms Studio 87
   Price from PHP 2,400/night
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11. Tagaytay

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want a quick escape from the busy city life, Tagaytay is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines that never fails to satisfy the traveler in you. With many Tagaytay tourist spots to see, yummy dishes to try, and fun experiences not to miss out on while enjoying the cool weather, you will definitely have the vacation you’ve been looking for. Best of all, it’s just two hours away from the metro.

Tagaytay is another tourist destination that has reopened for tourists amid the pandemic according to the latest travel advisory Philippines.

Must-read: The Complete Guide For A Staycation in Tagaytay

Attractions

• Taal Volcano and Lake
• Picnic Grove
• People’s Park in the Sky
• Sky Ranch
• Museo Orlina
• Puzzle Mansion
• Sonya’s Garden
• Paradizoo

Things to do

• Staycation
• Dining with a view
• Hiking
• Horseback riding
• ATV riding
• Food tripping

Best budget hotels in Tagaytay

1. Rachel’s Bed and Breakfast
   Price from PHP 1,300/night
   Book now

2. Berrie Suites Hotel
   Price from PHP 2,400/night
   Book now

12. Batangas

If you’re someone who loves to bask in the sun through hiking or beach bumming, Batangas is the perfect place for your Philippines holidays 2021. It boasts stunning land and seascapes, amazing mountains, and iconic diving spots that will make you want to extend your Philippines vacation. Batangas is not just popular for family and group trips but it’s also a romantic destination for a Philippines honeymoon.

Related article: 10 Batangas Tourist Spots Perfect for Quick Getaways

Attractions

• Fortune Island
• Laiya Beach
• Anilao
• Masasa Beach
• Matabungkay Beach
• Sepoc Beach
• Caleruega Chapel
• Mt. Batulao
• Malabrigo Lighthouse 
• Cape Santiago Lighthouse

Things to do

• Island-hopping
• Swimming
• Camping
• Hiking 

13. Rizal

Visit Philippines’ most beautiful waterfalls and mountains by traveling to Rizal province that’s just two hours away from Manila. Rizal Province features stunning places that are worth the visit. In fact, some of the Rizal tourist spots are historical and have been featured in many travel shows and magazines already! This tourist spot in Luzon will give you the adventure of a lifetime.

Must-read: 10 Must-See Rizal Tourist Spots for an Amazing Adventure

Attractions

• Hinulugang Taktak
• Pinto Art Museum
• Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs
• Masungi Georeserve
• Daranak Falls
• Batlag Falls
• Tinipak River
• Cloud 9 Antipolo
• Pililla Wind Farm
• Treasure Mountain

Things to do

• Swimming
• Hiking
• Food tripping

14. Zamboanga

Mindanao is often misinterpreted for having only chaos but actually, Mindanao offers some of the most beautiful places in the Philippines. While the Philippines is known for its all-white and cream-colored beaches, Zamboanga boasts of its pink sand beach that definitely makes a perfect spot for Instagram snaps. This offbeat tourist spot in Mindanao has a lot of beautiful places waiting to be discovered.

Attractions

• Merloquet Falls
• Paseo del Mar
• Pink Beach Zamboanga
• Yakan Weaving Village
• Pasonanca Park
• Great Santa Cruz Island
• Bayangan Island
• Tagbilat Falls
• Rizal Shrine

Things to do

• Swimming
• Hiking
• Going for a cultural heritage tour

15. Siquijor

If you’re planning for your Philippines travel and you want to go somewhere offbeat, magical, and mystic, consider visiting Siquijor. While there are some mystic stories that could be true, the only magic you should look forward to is the one brought by the enchanting Siquijor tourist spots that will make you want to walk straight into a beautiful trap. 

It is a small island province located in the Central Visayas region oozing with pristine beaches, beautiful diving spots, waterfalls, and a cave. This tourist destination in the Philippines used to be known as the Island of Fire enveloped by mystic traditions such as witchcraft, healing, spiritual rituals. 

Must-read: 10 Siquijor Tourist Spots That’ll Make You Walk Straight Into A Beautiful Trap

Attractions

• Cambugahay Falls
• Paliton Beach
• Cantabon Cave
• Old Enchanted Balete Tree
• Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary
• Salagdoong Beach
• San Juan Beach
• Cang-isok House 
• Sandugan Beach

Things to do

• Swimming
• Diving
• Island-hopping

Best Time to Visit Philippines

If you want to visit Philippines at its finest, you should know the months of the season you’re planning to experience the country.

March to May

If you’re coming to see the country’s best beaches, make sure to travel in summer between the months of March to May. This is the best time to visit Philippines and experience the best of the best islands!

December to February

The months of December to February are the time to experience the cool weather and the warm holiday season in the Philippines.

What to Eat in the Philippines

The beautiful Philippines is not just a paradise of stunning beaches but it’s also a haven for foodies. From the street food to the most delicious dishes, Filipino cuisine will satisfy your hungry tummy. Here are some of the must-try Filipino food:

1. Adobo
2. Sinigang na Baboy
3. Lechon
4. Sisig
5. Kansi
6. Bulalo
7. Isaw
8. Balut
9. Halo-halo
10. Puto Bumbong

Read this for the full list of Filiino Food: A Taste of Filipino Food: 10 Pinoy Dishes That Will Have You Drooling

How to Get Around

Photo source: Wikimedia Commons

Getting around in the beautiful Philippines is easy and fun! The main mode of transportation in the country are jeepneys and tricycles. Every tourist in Philippines must experience riding the jeepney and tricycle for a memorable experience. There are also many areas in the Philippines where you can ride a bus and taxi. If you’re going for a long-distance trip to Philippines, you can ride a plane or ferry.

Visa Guidelines

Nationals from countries listed below who are traveling to the Philippines for business and tourism purposes are allowed to enter the Philippines without visas for a stay not exceeding thirty (30) days, provided they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or next port of destination and their passports valid for a period of at least six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay.

Nationals from the following countries are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a period of stay of thirty (30) days or less:

*Brazilian and Israeli nationals are given fifty-nine (59) days stay based on existing agreements. 

The following are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a stay not exceeding fourteen (14) days:

1. Holders of Hong Kong Special Administrative (SAR) passports.
2. Holders of Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) passports.

The following are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a stay not exceeding seven (7) days:

1. Holders of Macau-Portuguese passports
2. Holders of Hong Kong British passports.

Source: Department of Foreign Affairs

Philippines EVisa

The Electronic Travel Authorization for the Philippines (eTA Philippines) also called Philippines EVisa is an online travel authorization currently available for Taiwan citizens only who wish to visit the country for short-term stay. As of writing, the electronic visa waiver for the Philippines, can be obtained by Taiwanese passport holders through an online application form. 

To apply for the Philippines electronic travel authorization, the traveler needs a valid and eligible passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the expected stay in the Philippines.

Taiwan also has an electronic visa system available for Filipino citizens who wish to travel to Taiwan.

Source: Philippines Visa

Tips in Exploring the Philippines

If you want a hassle-free holiday to Philippines, make sure to read these Philippines travel tips:

1. Wear comfortable clothes that are weather-appropriate.
2. While ATMs are widely available in the Philippines, always bring cash especially when going to places that are not highly-urbanized. 
3. Don’t wear too many jewelries and avoid bringing expensive things that are flashy to the eyes of snatchers.
4. Research before you travel.
5. Learn the basic Filipino words like salamat (thank you), saan po ito (where is this?), kumusta (how are you?), and more.
6. Don’t be shy or afraid to bond with the locals. Filipinos are very hospitable.
7. Make sure to always keep yourself updated with the latest travel restrictions to Philippines due to the pandemic.
8. Prepare the necessary requirements to travel to Philippines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Philippines Travel

Q: Where to go for Philippines holidays 2021?

A: Whether you’re looking for a relaxing Philippines vacation or an adventure of a lifetime, the Pearl of the Orient Seas does not disappoint. Here we’ve rounded up all the beautiful places in the Philippines you should add to your bucket list.

• Palawan
• Batanes
• Boracay
• Cebu
• Siargao
• Bohol
• Ifugao 
• Camiguin
• Ilocos
• Manila 
• Tagaytay
• Batangas
• Rizal 
• Zamboanga
• Siquijor

Q: What are the countries covered by travel restrictions in Philippines?

A: The ban on foreign travelers now covers 36 jurisdictions, including Czech Republic, after they confirmed the presence of new COVID-19 variants in their areas, namely: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United States, Portugal, India, Finland, Norway, Jordan, Brazil, Austria, China, Pakistan, Jamaica, Luxembourg, Oman, United Arab Emirates, and Hungary.

As of writing, IATF-EID lifts travel restrictions on 36 countries starting Feb. 1, but other restrictions remain in place. For more details, read this news from Philippine Information Agency.

For more Philippine tourism news, read this blog: Latest Philippines Tourism News

Q: Is travel to Philippines from USA allowed?

A: As of writing, there’s still a travel ban from Philippines to USA due to the new COVID variant. However, as announced by the Bureau of Immigration, they are now lifting the ban on the 36 countries with the new COVID variant but certain travel restrictions still remain. See exemptions here. And travel to Philippines from US is still not allowed for leisure purposes.

Q: Can US citizens travel to Philippines?

A: As mentioned above, foreigners can now enter the Philippines but must follow certain protocols. US citizens can travel to Philippines provided that they are included in the exemptions and must adhere to the protocols.

Q: Is it safe to travel to the Philippines?

A: Yes. Traveling to the Philippines is definitely safe. The locals are kind and very hospitable. But like any other country in the world, you should still take care of your belongings while traveling.

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