Coron, Palawan
Tours PH | Why You Should Visit the Philippines in 2020 | The Philippines is in Southeast Asian and the third-largest English-speaking country in the world. It has a rich history combining the influences of Asian, European, and American due to its history of colonization.
The PHILIPPINES lies in the heart of Southeast Asia, which is composed of 7,107 islands. Its unique location has made the Philippines the commercial, cultural and intellectual hub of Asia from the dawn of history. It has three main islands, which are Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
Filipino culture is known for being hospitable and festive. Throughout the islands, there are fiestas celebrated every day and foreign guests are always welcome to their homes. This is one of the reasons why tourists love to visit the Philippines. Also, the Philippines is famous for its beaches that you can visit and do some water activities.
If you want to visit the Philippines in 2020, take a tour and experience for your self the Filipino culture, here are the Philippines’ top travel places (not in any order):
Top 20 tourist destinations in the Philippines:
#1 Boracay Island
If you think of the Philippines and you want to experience Philippine travel, the first thing that you can do here is to enjoy the beach. Boracay Island is famous for its white sand beach and its nightlife. Here are the places that you might want to visit:
- Puka Beach
The popular alternative to the party side of Boracay. Much different from the other parts of the island, the waves here can get a little choppy during the day. Instead of the noise of partygoers, all you’ll hear are the natural sounds of nature.
- Ariel’s Point
This Boracay gem is most popular for their “diving boards” where adventure junkies can leap off to the clear waters below. This area has one of the clearest waters and richest marine life in Boracay.
- Crystal Cove
one of the must-visit islands hopping destinations when you’re in Boracay. The private island is filled with mini cove, picturesque views, statues, and never-ending photo op spots all over the island.
#2 Manila
Between the busy city of Manila, you can visit a tourist spot that can show you and bring you to the history of the Philippines. Here are the places to visit in Manila
- Fort Santiago
Known as the “Walled City”, Intramuros, the oldest district and historic core best represents Manila’s rich history. It’s the only district of Manila where visitors can still see Spanish-era architecture.
- National Museum
For a true exploration into the culture of the country, a visit to the National Museum of the Philippines is in order. The museum has four main complexes and extensive collections and artifacts relating to art, archaeology, anthropology, zoology, biology, and natural history
- Rizal Park
Sometimes referred to as Luneta Park, this is a peaceful and manicured outdoor garden located in the heart of the city. Throughout the park. you will see statues and monuments paying tribute to Manila’s history and to Philippines national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.
#3 Cebu
Cebu tourist attractions is one of the famous tourist spots in Visayas. Aside from beaches, this place has a lot to offer for tourists that you can include for your future Cebu trip. Here are the places to visit in Cebu:
- Cebu Taoist Temple
This temple had become popular because of its artistic structures. From there, you can see the striking view of the city and even the Mactan Island. And of course, for Taoists, this is the ideal place to pray or meditate.
- Temple of Leah
Greek and Roman architectures are the inspiration of the temple. The temple is a symbol of his undying love for his wife that has 24 chambers including a museum, an art gallery and a library.
- Bantayan Island
Bantayan Island is one of the most famous Cebu tourist destinations. You will enjoy the tranquility and the beautiful waves of its seas.
You can visit Cebu via airplane from Manila and selected overseas countries which have direct flights to Cebu. From there, you can rent a van or ride the public transportation that will help you fulfill your Cebu trip.
#4 Siargao
Siargao is a small island located at the northeastern coast of Mindanao. It is known as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. Here are the top destinations in Siargao that you can visit:
- Cloud 9
Cloud 9 is one of the popular surfing areas in General Luna, but if you are not that into balancing yourself on a surfboard and get wiped out by the wave. You can just relax and stroll along the boardwalk and watch the sunset.
- Three-Island Tour
You shouldn’t leave this place without trying the Siargao Island Hopping. The popular one is the three-island tour which covers Guyam, Naked, and Daku.
- Sugba Lagoon
Another popular attraction on the island is Sugba Lagoon which is located at the northwestern portion of the island. The jumping-off point is the town of Del Carmen, where you can dive into the clear turquoise waters.
#5 Coron
If you will ask for suggestions on what place to visit in the Philippines, it is sure that Coron would be on the recommended list. Coron is a 1st class municipality in the province of Palawan, Philippines. If you are planning to visit Palawan, here are some destination that you shouldn’t miss:
- Japanese Sunken Shipwrecks
Coron is known for the several Japanese shipwrecks from World War II which are in the area. Surrounded by various rock formations, you can experience snorkeling in the wrecks. Coron has also been the most visited diving wrecks in the Philippines.
- Kayangan Lake
Kayangan Lake is dubbed as the “cleanest lake in the Philippines”. Its crystalline waters are nestled into the mountain walls and have a moonscape-like underwater view.
- Calamian Island
Calamian Islands has become one of Palawan’s major tourist destinations if you want to experience Coron Island hopping, diving and snorkeling, Calamianes is the perfect place to visit.
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#6 El Nido
El Nido has the most beautiful attractions in the world. Hidden lagoons, limestone formations, sandbanks, stunning islands with white beaches and blue water. Here are some attractions in El Nido that you should really visit:
- Small Lagoon
The Small Lagoon located in Bacuit Bay, is the most breathtaking place to see in El Nido. This lagoon has clean turquoise-green waters and is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and rock formations. Simizu Island
Simizu Island is the best spot for snorkeling in El Nido. It has deep water and a vast variety of corals and fishes. Apart from the underwater beauty that you can see here, the island boasts secluded white sand beaches and clear turquoise warm water.
- Hidden Beach
The Hidden Beach in Matinloc island is a small paradisiac cove concealed by limestone rock and impossible to see it from the open sea. You can also book this beach privately and enjoy this place without other tourists.
#7 Puerto Prinsesa
Puerto Princesa is the common place to visit if you want to go to Palawan. Aside from different water activities, this place has so much to offer to the tourist. Here are the places that you should visit in Puerto Princesa:
- Underground River
The Puerto Princesa Underground River is the most famous attraction of the city which is included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites is reputed to be the world’s longest navigable underground river.
- Palawan Tribal Villand and Butterfly Farm
This is one of the interesting tourist spots in the city. The Tribal Village, which offers a cultural interaction with members of the Palawan tribe; and the Butterfly Eco Garden, which showcases the variety of tropical butterflies and other insects.
#8 Vigan
If you want to see historical places in the Philippines and see the culture of Filipinos, Vigan is one of the must visit places in Luzon.
- Calle Crisologo
With over 200 homes still preserved from the Spanish Colonial period, Calle Crisologo is recognized by UNESCO as a Heritage City and has become the must-go to spot in Vigan. Walking along this street throws you back in time when only the rich occupied the area during Spanish era.
- Bantay Church Bell Tower
Built in 1591, the bantay bell tower is considered one of Ilocos’ oldest structures that was originally built so that people could keep watch over the town of Bantay. In 1857, it was converted to a church by the nearby Bantay Church which is dedicated to St. Augustine of Hippo.
- Paburnayan
Witness one of the oldest crafts practiced in the city of Vigan, the making of earthen jars made of clay which have been one of the cities livelihoods for many years now.
#9 Pagudpud
While Vigan is known for its historical places, Pagudpud is known for its beach destination located in the northern part of the Philippines.
- Saud Beach
For travelers who want to avoid crowded beaches and commercialized sites, Saud Beach is the perfect place to be. Because Pagudpud is not that yet, there are not as many people and not as many vendors peddling their wares.
- Kaibigan Falls
If you are tired of sand and sea, Kabigan Falls in Barangay Balaoi is a good alternative. This waterfall can be reached after a 30 to 45-minute trek from the main highway of Pagudpud.
- Patapat Bridge
The Patapat Bridge is a raised bridge and the fourth longest bridge in the Philippines. It connects Pagudpud to the rest of Ilocos Norte and Cagayan Valley. From one vantage point along the bridge, you can see how it snakes alongside the coast and the mountains of Pagudpud.
#10 Baguio
Baguio is one of the most recommended places to visit, from its cool weather to how the different tribes show its culture, it surely attracts a lot of tourists.
- Burnham Park
It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, especially during weekends. Most families enjoy some outdoor recreation in the form of biking, roller skating, and boating or even simply lay a mat on the grass and take in the fresh air and sunshine.
- Mines View Park
Shop, eat, and go sightseeing are the activities that you can do here. From the wonderful view of the Cordillera mountains, it also has many stalls where you can purchase woven, knitted, and wooden souvenirs of all kinds.
- Camp John Hay
The camp was a former rest and recreation facility for American soldiers. This place offers tourists tons of fun activities. It highlights the best that Baguio has to offer, which are pine trees, fresh air, cool breeze, and a serene atmosphere.
#11 La Union
La Union is one of the places to visit near Manila if you want to have a quick escape from its busy city. If you are into surfing and beaches, this place is for you.
- San Juan
Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan is the most popular surfing spot and main tourist area.
- Tangadan Falls
If you want to take a break from the surf and enjoy a dip at Tangadan Falls. You can ride a bamboo raft to the main cascade and enjoy a cool waterfalls shower massage.
- Grape Farm
One of the most famous grape farms is in Bauang, La Union. It is called Lomboy Grape Farm, the one believed to be the first grape farm in the Philippines.
#12 Batangas
If you want a 3-4 hours’ drive vacation from Manila without spending too much, here are the places to visit in Batangas:
- Masasa Beach
Tingloy Island is located just across Anilao, Batangas which offers different water activities like snorkeling and island hopping. What’s nice about this place is you will experience the culture and how they live in this small community of Tingloy.
- Laiya Beach
Laiya is popular for its white sand and clear cold waters, hence, it’s frequently visited during summer.
- Verde Island
Located between Batangas and Mindoro, Verde Island is a beautiful almost secluded island that has clean beige-sand beaches with lots of amazing seashells and clear waters.
#13 Batanes
Located on the northern tip of the Philippines, Batanes is known as home of the winds because of its calm, cool and windy weather.
- Morong Beach
Located in Sabtang Island, Morong Beach is one of the more popular beaches in the province, thanks to the large rock formation called Nakabuang Arch and its powdery white sand and waves.
- Basco Lighthouse
Basco Lighthouse is one of the three active lighthouses. Built-in March 2003 to serve as a guide to local fishermen, the 66-ft tower Basco Lighthouse offers a 360-degree view of Basco town proper, Basco port, and the West Philippine Sea.
- Savidug Stone Houses
It is a coastal village that is traditional cogon-roofed stone houses. The best thing about this village is the indigenous people maintain these houses and remain untouched where locals still live traditionally.
#14 Puerto Galera
As Oriental Mindoro’s coastal gem, Puerto Galera is listed in the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World that will make you want to visit this place.
- White Beach
If you love partying and want to experience a Boracay kind of nightlife, try to visit White Beach, which is a long stretch of white sandy shores that has all kinds of bars, resorts, and partying tourists.
- Coral Garden
This place is popular for being a diver friendly place where even noncertified divers can experience this water activity.
- Tukuran Falls
It is a hidden paradise being a small waterfall surrounded by greeneries as far as the eye can see. The water that flows is fresh from mountains that makes it a tourist spot for backpackers.
#15 Davao
Davao City is the largest urban center in Southern Philippines, and is famous for its natural attractions, which are accessible within just an hour of travel for the tourists.
- Philippine Eagle Center
Mindanao’s rainforests are home to the country’s national bird, Philippine Eagle. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center and meet the critically endangered Philippine Eagle.
- Mount Apo
The Mount Apo is known as “King of Philippine Peaks”, the country’s highest mountain peak. It is also one of Southeast Asia’s highest mountains, and much sought-after climbing destinations.
- Samal Island
If you want to hit the beach, Samal Island is the go-to destination for locals and tourists. It is known for its many white-sand beaches, beautiful resorts, island hopping tours, and inland attractions.
#16 Iloilo
Iloilo is known as the heart of the Philippines. With its location surrounded by waters and islands, it is a must-place to visit in the Philippines.
- Islas de Gigantes
Your trip to Iloilo won’t be complete without trying different adventures in Islas de Gigantes. It is the most famous Iloilo tourist spot with its secret caves and lagoons, and fantastic beaches.
- Miagao Church
Miagao Church is the most visually appealing, age-old church in the province of Iloilo. Today, it is one of the most unique Iloilo tourist spots and is a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, listed as one of the top examples of a Baroque-style church.
- Garin Farm
The farm offers a stairway to heaven scene with a long stairway leading up to a huge cross and angels trumpeting beside you. They also have a swimming pool which is slightly elevated for your relaxation.
#17 Bohol
This is none of the best places to visit in the Philippines. If you are going to Cebu, might as well visit Bohol too and see the famous attractions that it offers.
- Chocolate Hills
Bohol is known for its famous Chocolate Hills. This is also one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. During the rainy season, the hills are painted green and on dry seasons, they’re brown — that’s why it’s called the “Chocolate Hills.”
- Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary
Bohol is also known for Tarsiers which are aplenty in this Visayan province. You can view, play with them and observe these comic-looking animals in their natural habitat.
- Panglao Island
Panglao Island is the Bohol’s version of Boracay. The white sand, blue waters and the nightlife make this one of the best Bohol tourist spots. Water activities like snorkeling and diving are also famous here.
#18 Tagaytay
One of the go-to tourist spots of locals and visitors is Tagaytay. It is the mini-Baguio that is more accessible because it is located near Metro Manila. Surely, you don’t want to miss visiting this place.
- Taal Volcano
One of the favorites Tagaytay tourist spots is Taal Volcano. It’s a trek-friendly and you can reach the view in just an hour.
- Picnic Grove
You should visit Picnic Grove, a hilly spot perfect for bonding and having fun. Aside from the nice view, there are also many activities to try at Picnic Grove.
- People’s Park
This urban park in Tagaytay is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is flocked by tourists for its wonderful views of Taal Lake, beautiful souvenirs and cool weather.
#19 Surigao
Surigao is one of the best destinations to visit in the Philippines in terms of it having many best and diverse places and attractions to go to.
- Punta Bilar
Punta Bilar is a two-kilometer pristine marine life stretch which is one of the best diving spots in Surigao.
- Songkoy Cold Spring
Songkoy Cold Spring is a go-to tourist destination of tourist and even locals.
- Enchanted River
Enchanted River is a deep spring river that flows into the Philippine Sea and the Pacific Ocean. It’s famous for its different shade of color of blue as its depth differs.
#20 Zambales
Zambales is one of the top destinations in the Philippines that offers almost everything you desire when it comes to traveling which makes it perfect for your adventurous soul.
- Capones Island
The island is covered in rocks on one end and white sand on the other. It’s a great attraction for surfers and divers alike.
- Nagsasa Cove
Nagsasa Cove has ash-colored sand and is surrounded by pine-like Agoho trees. It has a more relaxed atmosphere and when you hike up the hill, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the sea.
- Inflatable Island
It is essentially a big playground set above the open sea in Subic built for kids and kids-at-heart. Get ready to get wet at the biggest and wildest floating theme park in Asia
If you are looking for adventure, whether it is on land, air or sea, you can find them all in the Philippines. Also, what makes the Philippines a good place to travel is the people and the culture of Filipinos. A lot of tourists say that they really felt at-home with Filipinos being hospitable. Plan your next travel and coordinate with a travel agency in the Philippines to help you plan your next trip!
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Homer Nievera is a travel blogger for ToursPH.com
