The Top 20 Tourist Attractions in the Philippines

We're starting out big, and by this, we mean, quite literally! There’s nothing quite like the experience of swimming with these peaceful sea giants, and that’s why we think this should not be missing from our list. That said, we want to emphasize our preference for the small village Donsol (Sorsogon, Bicol region) and not for Oslob (Cebu). In Donsol the program was developed together with WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) Philippines and is more regimented - here the animals are not fed, which changes their natural behavior.

If you want to experience the "butanding" (that's what they call whale sharks in the local language), you should travel to Donsol between February and June. However, sightings are also made from November onwards, and the trip to the bay is exciting in itself.

This is one of the main reasons why Palawan is repeatedly voted one of the most beautiful islands in the world: El Nido. Although Palawan is also a province in itself, to which quite a few islands belong, El Nido and the Bacuit Archipelago are especially in the spotlight here - so much, so that there is justifiable talk of over-tourism, and even closures are necessary at times. But if you know the right corners, you will have a great time here! Here you will be spoilt with pristine beaches, rich marine life, lagoons, caves, and stunning landscapes and cliff formations.

There are several elevations on the Philippines islands, the highest mountains are Mount Apo in Davao, Mount Pulag in Luzon, or Dulang Dulang in the province of Bukidnon. Mount "Hibok-Hibok", one of the many volcanoes found on the island of Camiguin, is exemplary for the many great hiking possibilities.

The ascent of the volcano should take place as early as possible in the morning, always accompanied by a local guide. For the ascent you should plan about 3-4 hours, the descent takes about 2-3 hours.

Siargao boasts unspoiled white sandy beaches, lush coconut groves, and stunning rock formations. But the most important attraction is probably the internationally known surfing spot, "Cloud 9", best visited during the months of September to November.

There are also numerous other surfing spots around "Cloud 9" for beginners and advanced surfers alike - the local guides and surf instructors are always happy to help find the next wave.

Bohol is one of the most popular provinces in the Philippines, and the Chocolate Hills are a real tourist magnet. There are two popular viewpoints - one in Carmen and one in Sagbayan. If you would like to see these hills in nature, then this tour is the right choice.

The chocolate hills, which are actually green for the longest time of the year, are considered one of the landmarks of Bohol. Bohol itself is rightly one of the most visited provinces among local and international tourists, as it is very varied and a lot to offer for all kinds of travelers. The Chocolate Hills can also be easily reached from Anda, for example, and there is (still) far less activity there than in many other parts of Bohol.

And if you are already on your way to the Chocolate Hills, you should definitely visit the Philippine tarsiers, specifically the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella.

In no top list to the Philippines will the awe-inspiring rice terraces be missing. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995 (another great reason to visit the emerald rice terraces of the Philippines!), the most famous ones are found in the north of the country, namely in Banaue and Bontoc. Whoever undertakes the sometimes arduous journey to the millennia-old rice terraces should take enough time with them, at least 4 to 5 days.

For instance, Mount Pinatubo, Baguio City, San Fernando (La Union), Sagada (for the more active), or the colonial Vigan can be combined well with your itinerary while you are at it.

The island Apo in front of Negros has not been a diving secret tip for a long time, but a visit to the island sanctuary is still worthwhile. The best way to reach the small island is from Zamboangita / Malatapay, which is southwest of Dumaguete. Alternatively, you can also travel via Siquijor Island.

Tip: If you can manage it in time, you should start on a Wednesday when you arrive from Malatapay. Because then you will find the notorious weekly market, which is also very worth seeing.

A UNESCO-heritage site, a walk into the Vigan City cobblestone streets will easily feel like you are traveling back in time. Here in this well-preserved town, you will find beautiful colonial houses from the Spanish era, heritage museums, and horse-drawn carriages. Also, you can’t miss the street-food stalls highlighting must-try Ilocano foods.

If you have been to El Nido or want to visit the counterpart in the east, you should take a look at Libjo, Dinagat Islands. Here you can find the hidden gems of Kisses Islets, which are at least as beautiful, but at least twice as difficult to reach. Besides the jaw-dropping limestone, the crystal-clear turquoise waters protected by the striking little islets are calm and beguiling. Dinagat in itself is also well-known for its beaches, resorts, and caves.

One of the oldest urban markets in the country, it surprises us again and again that many travelers avoid the Carbon market or are even afraid to visit it. This is a local affair and a very nice opportunity to experience Philippine everyday life up close and personal. Also, other famous sights like Magellan's Cross or Basilica Sto. Nino is only a few minutes walk away.

Rather known to adventurous trip insiders who also travel to the main island of Mindanao: the Tinuy-An Falls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur. It’s a three-tiered waterfall with natural pools where one can leisurely take a plunge. Many refer to the stunning falls as the Little Niagara Falls of the Philippines. While not as big, one can’t help but be amazed at the sight of Tinuy-an Falls’ curtain of clear waters cascading down its base.

On Mindanao, there are many other waterfalls like the Tinago Falls, the Aliwagwag Falls, and the Awao Falls.

The only place in the world where thresher sharks can be found almost all year round is Monad Shoal around Malapascua Island. This island is located in the northwest of Cebu and is a must for divers. However, more and more individual travelers find their way here, because Kalanggaman is also not far away and always worth a trip.

Makati is the famous financial district of Manila and is sometimes compared to Manhattan. Everything is possible here, and Makati is exciting, colorful, dynamic, crazy, breathtaking, versatile, chaotic - absolutely worth seeing when you are in the Philippines!

Tip: The Greenbelt Makati has one of the best museums in the country, the Ayala Museum. It is best to combine a visit with some souvenir shopping at the end of your trip to the Philippines.

We found one of the most beautiful stalactite caves in the majestic Siquijor Island - the Cantabon Cave. Inside the cave runs the subterrene stream while captivating formations of stalactites and stalagmites hang from the ceiling of the cave’s chamber. Located roughly in the center of the island, around it, there are horror stories with mystical figures, Good Friday the black magicians/voodoo priests are said to meet here. Just the right thing for adventurers!

The province of Bukidnon in northern Mindanao is unique. Here live the Talaandig and other indigenous tribes. Everyday life is dominated by agriculture, and cowboys roam on huge farms. From our point of view, Bukidnon is a future insider tip when it comes to farming and ecotourism. And, because Bukidnon boasts not just mountains and plateaus but also natural springs, waterfalls, and lakes, tag your friends along and take a dip in these wonders nature has to offer.

Batanes Islands is the northernmost and smallest province and has been promoted by the tourism authorities for quite some time. Called Home of the WInds, this small province offers jaw-dropping terrains and bodies of water. However, the journey is arduous and only possible during a few months of the year. The rather Nordic than the tropical island is the home of the Ivatan, and here you can look back on a tradition of thousands of years. Here everything is different, you almost forget you are in a tropical country, and that is a good thing.

Talipanan Beach can be found in Puerto Galera.  If you are looking for a less crowded beach destination, you can’t go wrong when you visit Talipanan beach. The secluded beach boasts impressive rock formations and a long narrow beach with white sand. Although the sand is not quite as white, the calm, clear blue waters of the beach and the tranquility the place offers is in itself a treat.

Perhaps the most beautiful beach in the Philippines is located in Mati, Davao Oriental. Miles long, rough, serene, it’s easy to fall in love with Dahican. With its long stretch of white sand beach with pristine waters and rich marine life, it’s not surprising that it has become a leading destination for adventure enthusiasts and a variety of water-sports activities, including surfing, skim-boarding, and more.

The Hinatuan River or "Enchanted River" can also be found on Mindanao and not far from the Tinuy-an Falls. Hinatuan is a deep spring river famous for its striking blue color and hands-down clear waters. Also an absolute highlight, according to the locals, fairies and nymphs live here. We haven't seen them during our visit, but it was an awesome experience to be there anyway.

Last but not least we also included Boracay Island. Although we see the developments around this tourist magnet with mixed feelings, a top list of the best sights of the Philippines would simply not be complete without Boracay.