Tourist Attractions & Monuments Philippines

This would be one of the "happiest" places in Bicol, and it is true that this eco-place is very popular with the locals. In the heights of Daraga, FarmPlate is a kind of large recreational park, where you can find picnic tables, a small farm, a nice chapel and even a few trailers that offer snacks and drinks. You have to come in the late afternoon on a nice day. The sunset on the Mayon volcano, on this plain surrounded by palm trees, the garlands that light up... there is a bit of a Californian atmosphere.

At 5 minutes of the city, this gigantic park of 170 hectares represents the base of more a vast project of reafforestation of the mangrove swamp started as of the end of 1980. It is a pleasant getaway to observe the birds and all the creatures of the marai. 

The Iloilo Museum, not very large, is one of Panay's main museums. We could also mention ILOMOCA, the museum of contemporary art. It's a quick but interesting visit for those wishing to learn more about Iloilo, its history and cultural heritage. On display are indigenous ceramics, jewelry and objects from trade with the Chinese. There's also a fine collection on the Ati, and interesting objects salvaged here and there from former Spanish galleons, as well as works by contemporary local artists.

Located 40 kilometers north of Iloilo, this beautiful park of no less than 854 hectares is home to many endangered species: monkeys, pythons, tarantulas, scorpions and other bats; but above all, magnificent orchids and a primary forest. It's a great place for a sporty stroll through caves and wild waterfalls. You'll need to hire a guide if you want to wander freely around the park, which will be more interesting anyway.

This natural park is a center for the protection of diversity, which aims to preserve the endemic animal species of Negros, most of which are endangered, and to educate and raise awareness of these issues. The sanctuary is home to dozens of species, including fallow deer, wild cats, birds of prey and many other birds. The sanctuary is run by volunteers and is a must-see for those interested in the evils of over-industrialization and animals in general. They are very educational.

Behind the Tourist Office, the beach of Talisay is ideal for swimming with its clear waters.

Located close to Fort Pilar, the Paseo del Mar is a bit like the promenade along Manila Bay. People come here for a relaxing stroll, to breathe in the sea air and, in the evening, to watch the superb sunsets. Popular with locals and visiting travellers alike, the park is a veritable oasis in the hustle and bustle of the city. Restaurants, bars and other leisure facilities have sprung up all along the way. And throughout the year, numerous events (parties, festivals...) take place here.

This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in El Nido. Hurry there to enjoy the sunset and especially the beauty of this picturesque site, its white sand and crystal clear waters. Ideal for a day of relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city. On the spot, some restaurants, bars and resorts have settled, distorting a little the beach. However the atmosphere is still peaceful, simply you will not be alone to enjoy it.

This seven-hectare park features reconstructed traditional houses and a museum on the different tribes of Mindanao. A place of culture as well as relaxation, Filipinos generally come here to spend a pleasant moment, cool off in the pool, have a picnic or go camping. There are also a few bungalows to sleep in and a restaurant. The place offers a lovely view over the bay. The botanical garden showcases some of Mindanao's flora and fauna, with numerous species of plants and flowers, butterflies and birds.

The Mactan Sanctuary is located where the Battle of Mactan took place in 1521. This park and its statue commemorate the Lapu-Lapu chief's victory over the Spanish explorer Magellan and his men on April 27, 1521. It was during this battle that Magellan was mortally wounded. It is the site of one of the key events in Philippine history, as Magellan retreated for the first time. Even today, Lapu-Lapu is regarded by Filipinos as their first hero, as he was the first leader to resist the Spanish invaders.

The beautiful Kawasan River and its various waterfalls flow into Matutinao, 15 kilometers before Moalboal when coming from Cebu. These three waterfalls are renowned for their impressive beauty and are ideal for canyoning. You can swim there, but beware: at weekends, the place is overrun by Filipino and international tourists. A sporting and photogenic break. In June 2023, the site was still temporarily closed for rehabilitation following the passage of typhoon Odette in December 2021.

At the end of a beautiful road surrounded by palm trees, 15 minutes from El Nido, Lio Beach is a surprisingly charming little beach, away from the crowds and yet offering a host of services. On site, several bars and restaurants, the possibility to rent kayaks and paddles, a volleyball court and deck chairs to relax. In the evening, there are regular concerts. Don't miss the sunset, with the silhouette of the surrounding islands in the distance, simply sublime. A good spot to spend a fun and relaxing day.

Casa Manila is the name of both the house and the museum it houses. It is one of the houses that make up the beautiful San Luis passage. Built in the 1970s, its architecture is inspired by the houses of Binondo's Chinatown from the ^mid-19th century. The facade is a little colorful and very beautiful. In the museum, a reconstructed interior shows how a rich family might have lived at the end of the colonial period. With furniture from Europe and China, glittering chandeliers, porcelain and gilding, evidence of a certain luxury.

Located in the municipality of Palo, ten kilometers south of Tacloban, this memorial commemorates General MacArthur's landing on Leyte, the first island to be liberated from Japanese occupation, on October 20, 1944. This historic event was the largest naval battle in the world. A famous photograph served as the model for this enormous statuary, depicting American soldiers landing on the beach, knee-deep in water.

The city of Marikina (we speak more of a city in its own right than the district of Quezon City, which is logical for a city of 3.3 million inhabitants) is known as the shoe capital of the Philippines. We will go to this shoe museum to "admire" the gigantic shoe collection (some 300 pairs anyway!) of Imelda Marcos, the wife of the former president-dictator Marcos. You can also learn more about the shoe-making process and there is a small market next door to... find the right shoe.

It is one of the major tourist sites in Bacolod City. Known as the former sugar capital of the Philippines during the colonial era, Bacolod had developed its entire industry around this commodity. TheRuins is one of the important witnesses of this era. It is the ruins of what was once the mansion of a wealthy sugar industrialist. It was burned down by the Japanese during the Second World War. Today the ruins of this huge mansion remain quite intriguing and beautiful especially at nightfall.

It's one of the eight caves in Camotes and one of the most easily accessible, as well as being one of the prettiest. There are only a few steps down, and no need for a guide. A beautiful skylight illuminates the cave, giving the water an almost unreal color. Bathing in the midst of these stalagmites and stalactites is a real experience. Legend has it that the grotto contains a treasure - we'll leave you to find out. What is certain is that, during the Second World War, the cave's inhabitants used it to hide from the Japanese.

This beach, nestled in a small cove, can be seen from the island's viewpoint. The turtles lay their eggs there by hundreds, digging a big hole in the sand where they deposit them, and that in total freedom. Here no association or sanctuary of protection, no night visit with tourists, they are totally free. The incubation period is two months, and during the birth season, only the strongest and most resistant babies will reach the sea and one in a thousand will become an adult turtle.

The trailhead is marked with a sign. The round trip takes 45 minutes. You can go by yourself but we recommend to go with a guide (the same as for snorkeling, remember to give a tip, 150-200 PHP at the end). It allows you to ask questions about the island, and to be accompanied because it is quite steep in some places. On the way there are several breathtaking viewpoints, up to the top and the tip of the island where the view of Negros Oriental, the beach and the sea is breathtaking. Remember to take water.

Lovers of old stones should go to Savidug and Chavayan. These two villages are home to traditional Ivatan stone houses. These houses are extremely sturdy and designed to withstand the twenty or so typhoons that hit the Batanes every year. The inhabitants live here peacefully, mostly from fishing and a little from agriculture. It is possible to buy the famous typical women's headgear (vakul), at the Sabtang Weavers Association, for about 400 PHP. Men wear jackets (kanayi) and hats (salakut).

You'll have to climb more than 700 steps to reach the most famous viewpoint in the city of Coron. But it's worth the effort; at the top, a breathtaking panoramic view will be yours. To the right are the domed hills covered with vegetation, to the left is the silhouette of Coron Island, one of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago, and in between is the beautiful Coron Bay. To avoid the heat, it is advisable to do this short (but intense) hike either early in the morning or at the end of the day for the sunset.

20 km from Tagbilaran, the Camugao waterfalls are among the most beautiful in Bohol. Access is via a road that winds through jungle, forest and rice paddies. Guides are available on site, but this is neither compulsory nor necessary. After a 15-minute walk up a steep, slippery slope, you're presented with a spectacle of pure beauty as only nature can produce: a magisterial waterfall cascades from a huge, curving cliff, amidst wild, lush vegetation. Swimming, jumping and taking photos!

Nestled at the bottom of the valley which shelters the sublime rice fields of Hapao, we reach it after 1 hour of walk. We cross the river by a small bridge to reach these natural hot springs. In a small natural pool, bubbles are formed. There is a light smell of sulfur because it is what creates the bubbles. On the spot, there are cabins to change (remember to take your bathing suit and keep an eye on your things). It is very pleasant to bathe in such a naturally warm water. It seems that the sulfur also has benefits for the body.

This is perhaps the most charming and peaceful place in the entire capital. In the heart of Intramuros, just across from the Church of Saint Augustine, Plaza San Luis is a sort of micro-neighborhood made up of nine houses with colonial-inspired architecture (they were reconstructed in the 1970s), linked together by a network of alleys, patios and covered passages. Today they house museums, restaurants and souvenir stores, and they exude a sweet atmosphere of yesteryear. A must-see.

Samal boasts an interesting natural environment, so it's no surprise that island hopping is one of the main activities here.

Talikud Island. Adjacent to Samal Island, Talikud Island is one of the most popular in the area. A number of resorts have set up here, and you can also enjoy its long white sandy beach during the day. Its seabed is popular with snorkeling enthusiasts, as it is home to a coral garden covering several hectares. You can also camp on the beach.

Ligid Islands. These are two islets off the coast of Samal, the smaller of four hectares being home to the Buenavista resort. While both are superb islets, it's the seabed that attracts dive enthusiasts, with its abundance of big fish and coral.

Kaputian Beach. The waters are turquoise, the sand is white and the nearby coral is home to a large number of fish. Kaputian Beach is also renowned as a pleasant spot for camping and spending the night under the stars.

Sabang Cliff. A change from the usual white sandy beaches, here you'll find rocky cliffs of varying heights, perfect for jumping into the turquoise water.

Monfort Bat Sanctuary. This cave is home to hundreds and hundreds of bats. As the visit takes place during the day, there's no risk - they're asleep. But to see them all huddled together, clinging to the rock face, is a unique and impressive sight.

A trip to the Bacuit Archipelago(island hopping) is often THE reason to come to El Nido and maybe even to the Philippines. The bay of Bacuit and its small and large islands are indeed breathtakingly beautiful. Between the incredible verticality of the dark gray karst rocks, the turquoise lagoons, the pristine beaches and the lush vegetation never touched by man, it is simply a unique mix of colors, one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world that you have before your eyes.

It is very easy to make a tour of the islands. Most hotels can organize it and many agencies have swarmed in recent years. There are four different standardized tours that allow visitors to be spread out over the different sites. A typical tour leaves at 9am and returns at 4pm. Lunch - often very good (vegetables, fresh fish, fruit) - is always included as well as the transfer to/from the hotel. Snorkeling or kayaking equipment is either included or extra.

The prices are generally aligned, even if some agencies try to sell off their prices to attract customers. We advise you to stick to the suggestions of your hotel or to the official agencies spread out in the center of El Nido. We generally leave on a large banca from the port of El Nido, enclosed in its cliffs, it is already incredibly picturesque. Be careful, to reach the boat that leaves most often from the "beach" of El Nido, you often have to walk in the water (keep your shoes on) or even swim, better be warned. Some providers offer speedboat tours: it is faster, you go further and you spend more time in the water or on the beach. The ideal would be to make a circuit in banca and another in speedboat. You can choose to do a group tour (15-20 people) or a private tour. A private tour is certainly more expensive (about 65 € per person for a group of 4) but is synonymous with privacy and freedom.

Tour A: Seven Commando Beach, Big Lagoon, Shimitzu Island, Paayong Payong and Secret Lagoon. 1,200 PHP/person/group; 12,000 PHP/2 persons/private.

Tour B: Entatula Isla, Snake Island, Cudognon Cave, Cathedral Cave and Papaya Beach. 1,300 PHP/person/group; 11,500 PHP/2 persons/private.

Tour C: Helicopter island, Hidden Beach, Cagbatang Island, Secret beach and Matinloc shrine. 1,400 PHP/person/group; 12,000 PHP/2 persons/private.

Tour D: Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasindigan Cove, Buka Island and Small Lagoon. 1,200 PHP/person/group; 11,500 PHP/2 persons/private.

The Petit Futé's opinion. Tours A and C are the most popular (especially because of the Big Lagoon in tour A and the Hidden Beach in tour C), so you will not be alone, far from it... Tours B and D allow a little more solitude even if it is rare - non-existent, let's admit it - in this dreamy archipelago. If you can afford it, we recommend a private island hopping, you won't regret it, your guide will not hesitate to move away from the tourist spots because he knows the crowded hours. The cherry on the cake would be to leave very early in the morning to arrive on the sites before everybody! In any case, even if you choose the option in group and in daytime, it will not take anything away from this unique experience which will remain magical.

It is a very popular spot, especially at the end of the day, which does not detract from the charm of the experience. Travelers as well as locals come to bask in these naturally hot springs. The water, half spring water, half sea water, reaches in some places 40 degrees! It is in fact thanks to an underwater volcano that boils (no danger on land, rest assured). We come there to relax after a day of exploration, to enjoy the superb sunset from a most sympathetic frame between limestone rocks, vegetation and bay in the distance.

Opened in 2019, the Legazpi City Museum is the only museum in the Bicol region. Despite its young age, it's not the most modern of museums, with its big yellow signs (it's even cheesy, let's say) but the information is clear and interesting. The visit is quite quick, in 1 hour, and is perfect to learn more about the history of the city by developing the major eras (pre-colonial, Spanish, Japanese, American, the visit of Pope John Paul II, etc.). Interesting for a rainy afternoon for example.

This is the organization that manages Corregidor Island. If you want to visit this historical island, you should contact them. Indeed, it is not possible to get to Corregidor via public transport but only via an organized tour. On their website, you can find an overview of what the island has to offer in terms of activities (bike tours, monument visits, exhibitions, nature, kayaking), transportation (boats, streetcar tours), etc.

Between 1871 and 2004, this building housed one of the main prisons in the Visayas. Today, it is the Cebu Provincial Museum. Through different galleries, it presents the rich history and culture of the province of Cebu from pre-colonial times to the present. In addition to being culturally interesting, the place is a true haven of peace in the city. A stopover that should please art and history lovers or simply those who wish to learn more about their vacation spot.

The sea trip to visit the dolphins in the wild is exciting. The expedition lasts one day and often combines the boat ride with a stop at the Manjuyod sandbar, the "Maldives of the Philippines". You will be accompanied by a guide who will explain the fascinating life of these creatures and you will enjoy a hearty lunch of grilled meats served on board, while admiring the beautiful beach. The best time to visit is from March to October, in the early morning, because the waters are calmer.

Nearby Cambugahay Falls are perhaps even more beautiful and much less touristy. Because of its limestone content, the water is a breathtaking cyan blue. There is a liana to make jumps and a small cave to swim in. If you go there early in the morning, you will not meet anyone. Unlike other government-run tourist sites, Kawasan is run by the villagers, so prices are often random. Usually a guide is mandatory to go down (he will watch your stuff).

We take this path from Calinan. Along the way, caves, waterfalls, rivers, lakes... each more beautiful than the last. Agencies offer guided tours, which take three to five days to complete. Birds can be spotted, and it's a good chance to meet the endangered tarababoy, a peculiar little animal with a boar's head. The summit of Mount Apo can be reached in a number of ways, depending on level. An encounter with the Bagobo tribes can also be included.

Disappearing Island is about 45 minutes by boat from Samal. As its name suggests, this islet disappears and appears with the tides. It's best to go there at low tide, to have the opportunity to tread its immaculate sand while enjoying the pretty beaches that surround it. A number of traditional houses on stilts are available to spend a night a little out of time, to the rhythm of the tides. The area is also ideal for snorkeling.

Located along Roxas Boulevard, this is a free beach whose only interest is to go there to watch the sunset, between 5 and 6 pm. Paradoxically, it is frequent that a security guard asks everyone to leave the beach at this time because it closes at 6pm, so it's a bit of a pity but it doesn't take away the beauty of the sunset! Between the beach and the boulevard behind, a kind of small market with street food and gadgets stands, very local. There is a footbridge to go back to Ermita. To do!

From here, visitors have a panoramic view of Surigao Strait, the site of the Battle of Surigao Strait during the Second World War. The museum tells the story of this battle, which was one of the episodes of the Battle of Leyte Gulf on October 24-25, 1944, the most important naval battle of the Second World War, if not of all time. This strait is known as the graveyard of the ships that sank during the battle.

It is one of the oldest fortifications in the ancient city of Manila. Originally, around 1586, it was a circular star-shaped fort. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times after the various wars and earthquakes. Today, it is an important archaeological and memorial site. From the top of the fortifications, there is a beautiful view of the Rizal Park, the Manila Hotel and the towers of Manila. At the foot of the watchtower, a charming garden, which we invite you to explore: it conceals completely unsuspected bucolic corners.

Located in San Juan, Urbiztondo Beach is La Union's main and best-known surfing beach. Don't expect the white sand, turquoise waters and coconut palms of the rest of the archipelago - this is a surfing destination. On site, you'll find everything you need to rent a board, with or without a guide (we recommend taking one, as it makes catching waves much easier). Along the beach, you'll find a number of hotels, bars and restaurants. In the evening, the sunset is simply exceptional.

Six kilometers from Tagbilaran, this is a completely different side of the island, far from the tourist crowds. This small coastal town was founded in 1595 by two Spanish Jesuit priests. These same priests built the famous Baclayon church, the oldest church on the island. In addition to the church, Baclayon boasts a typical market and has preserved a number of ancestral homes combining colonial and Filipino styles, with wooden facades that add real charm to the place. So it's a Bohol of local colors that we discover.

Located 15 minutes from Baguio, this museum exhibits a permanent collection of the national artist Benedicto Cabrera, considered the best-selling artist of his generation of Filipino artists. Paintings by the master, collection of indigenous arts and works by contemporary Filipino artists. A souvenir store, a café and a small forest trail complete the pleasant ensemble. An interesting museum that succeeds in merging art and nature, located in a rather exceptional natural setting, in the heart of the mountains. Will appeal to contemporary art lovers!

Located in an old agricultural building, this pleasant museum displays old objects that recall the epic of the sugarcane industry in the ^19th century in the Bacolod region. It also displays an international collection of dolls. You can stop here for a cup of coffee. The museum was originally designed for children, but it will also be of interest to anyone who wants to learn more about the history and culture of Negros. Many activities are organized for children, as well as guided tours. A pleasant cultural stop.

A 30-minute walk via a rather rocky path or a 10-minute boat ride from the main beach of Port Barton (about 150 PHP) brings you to White Beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Palawan. White sand, palm trees, turquoise waters and all this just for you... a real dream! However, be careful when swimming, as the waters are known to be home to many jellyfish, sometimes very small. So prefer a stroll in the sand before having a picnic. In the evening, the sunset is sublime.

This is one of the must-visit natural sites on a trip to Siargao, a thirty-minute boat ride from Del Carmen. In terms of beauty, the Sugba lagoon is rivalled only by the Coron and El Nido lagoons, but without the crowds! After navigating through the mysterious mangroves, you come upon this lagoon, surrounded by hills covered in verdant vegetation, with turquoise and celestial waters that are absolutely incredible. Here you can rent kayaks or paddles, swim and jump. There's a boathouse for lunch.

A 40-minute scooter ride from General Luna, the road to get there is superb in itself: palm plantations, rice paddies as far as the eye can see and tropical forests. After a few steps on the left-hand side of the beach, you'll come across some astonishing rock formations forming a natural pool with turquoise waters. Note that the pool is only visible at low tide. Remember to bring slippers for swimming or even jumping. A few straw huts on site for lunch. Great spot!

A stay in Siargao would not be complete without a day of island hopping. What's on the agenda? A day's sailing to discover three islets, each more beautiful than the last, off the coast of Siargao, to feast your eyes on! The first island, Naked Island, is a 90-metre-long bank of white sand (hence the name) with transparent waters; the second, Guyam Island, is the perfect representation of the tiny desert island, almost perfectly circular - you can walk around it in 3 minutes. At its center is a cluster of palm trees. It's possible to buy a coconut (50 PHP) for refreshment; the third, Daku Island, is much larger than its two neighbors, and includes a small fishing village. It's a heavenly place, with its immaculate sandy beach and emblematic palm trees as far as the eye can see. Your dream day: palm trees, snorkeling, coconuts and white sand!

Most hotels in Siargao offer this excursion: a typical day starts at 9am and lasts until 4pm. It costs around PHP 1,400 per person. The price generally includes transfer to/from the hotel, boat, environmental fees, lunch, snorkeling equipment and an English-speaking guide. For greater flexibility, it is possible to go directly to a fisherman who will take you by banca to one or other of these islands (approx. 1,500 PHP). In this case, lunch is not included, so be sure to check the condition of the banca before boarding.

Cathedral Falls are located in Kapatagan, about 1h30 drive from Iligan. The falls were named for the shape of the rocks along which the water flows, strangely reminiscent of a cathedral. It's not the ideal place for a swim, and the water isn't always a beautiful color, but the view is nonetheless very beautiful and the site very natural, with no tourist infrastructure. Filipino families love to gather here and share a picnic on weekend days.

Sarangani province abounds in rivers and lakes. To the south-west of General Santos, some 80 kilometers away (an hour by bus from the KCC Terminal), lies the municipality of Glan, with its typical colonial houses. It is one of the oldest towns in Mindanao. On either side are superb white-sand beaches. They are bordered by coral reefs and turquoise waters, making them ideal for swimming. Gumasa Beach is one of the most beautiful, earning it the nickname "Boracay of the South". It is little frequented.

Every morning in Sarangani Bay, fishermen unload their goods. Some have just spent weeks at the edge of Indonesian waters. They carry tuna and other spectacularly large fish on their shoulders. The best are exported to Japan for the famous sashimi. The market's traders are bustling with activity. an average of 300 tons of fish are landed every day. Over 20,000 people work in what is one of the world's largest tuna fishing ports.

Stellar Ground is a kind of large park where one comes to relax, spend a day or evening with family or friends. On a large square in the shade of hundred-year-old acacias, some stalls offer various foods from around the world. There are also small stores selling typical Palawan handicrafts and on some evenings there are live music performances by local bands. It is a place where children can play, stroll around and buy nice souvenirs.

Located on the ancient volcano of Camiguin, this path of crosses and hikes is easily accessible and relatively easy (avoid the hottest hours of the day, as it climbs anyway). Allow around an hour's walk. There are fourteen charming stations along the way, which are actually life-size statues of Jesus on the Way of the Cross, the last of which is carved out of volcanic rock. The view from the summit over the surrounding countryside is superb.