20 Best Things to do in the Philippines 

Planning a trip to the Philippines and wondering what to do? You’re in the right place.

The Philippines is one of the most exciting countries in Southeast Asia, with everything from tropical islands and turquoise waterfalls to historic cities and volcanoes. And with more than 7,000 islands to choose from, there’s a huge amount to see!

Of course, that can also make planning a trip feel a little overwhelming. So to help you narrow it down, we’ve rounded up the very best things to do in the Philippines, from exploring Manila’s historic streets to island hopping in El Nido and watching the sunset on Boracay. We’ve also included all of the need-to-know details to help you plan each experience.

The Philippines at a Glance

Before we dive into the best things to do in the Philippines, here are a few helpful things to know. The country is made up of over 7,000 islands, so you probably won’t be able to see everything in one trip! We strongly recommend choosing a few destinations that work well together rather than trying to cram too much in.

The Philippines is divided into three main island groups: Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. Manila is on Luzon, while popular destinations like Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor are in the Visayas. Palawan sits further west and is home to famous spots like El Nido and Coron. We’ll make it clear where each activity is located throughout this guide so that you can figure out what works for your itinerary.

Getting around usually involves a mixture of domestic flights, ferries, buses, and local transport. Journeys can take a lot longer than they look on a map, especially when you’re traveling between islands, so make sure to leave some breathing room in your itinerary. 

Finally, the weather can have a big impact on your plans. Conditions vary across the country, but broadly speaking, December through April tends to be the driest and most popular time to visit. If you’re planning lots of boat trips and outdoor adventures, it’s always worth building in some flexibility in case the weather has other ideas.

Things to do in the Philippines 

1) Trace Manila’s past through Intramuros

If it’s your first time in Manila, exploring Intramuros is a must. This historic walled district dates back to the Spanish colonial era, and its old churches and fortifications feel worlds away from the modern skyscrapers elsewhere in the city.

We think that this 4-hour sightseeing tour from Manila is a fantastic introduction because it covers both sides of the capital. You’ll drive through modern Makati before heading into Old Manila, with stops at Rizal Park, the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, and the UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church along the way.

Of course, the highlight is exploring Intramuros itself, which is even more impressive when it’s contrasted against the more contemporary sights. You’ll walk through the cobblestone streets and visit Fort Santiago, a 16th-century fortress that played an important role throughout Manila’s colonial history. This was also where Filipino national hero Dr. José Rizal was imprisoned before his execution in 1896!

Best of all, you’ll explore with a guide who can actually bring all of that history to life! Having a knowledgeable and engaging guide really does make a huge difference, especially when you’re exploring somewhere with as much layered and complex history as Manila. But don’t just take our word for it – you can read hundreds of 5-star reviews right here.

Or explore Manila on 2 wheels

If you’d rather explore Intramuros at a slower pace, this bamboo bike tour is such a fun alternative! The tour starts in the heart of Manila’s historic district, where you’ll choose your own handmade bamboo bike before setting off with a local guide. The bikes are made locally using sustainable bamboo, so it’s a pretty unique way to explore the city while supporting a homegrown Filipino business.

You’ll pedal past some of Intramuros’ most important landmarks, and we love that you get to ride along parts of the old city walls. But this isn’t just a sightseeing ride! Your guide will explain the Spanish colonial period, World War II, and the Chinese influence on Manila’s history as you go. Then, you’ll finish up with snacks and maybe a beer in a local cafe – sounds perfect if you ask us. 

2) Follow the flavors that define Filipino street food 

One of the best ways to get to know Manila is through its food, and we had such a good time on this 3-hour street food tour! It started in Mandaluyong City, within Metro Manila, and took us away from the most touristy areas to eat at local restaurants and street food stalls. That’s exactly the kind of travel experience we love! 

We tried more than 10 different dishes, including grilled meats, fried snacks, dumplings, and local desserts, plus a beer or fruit juice. And let me tell you, the portions are generous! This definitely isn’t one of those food tours where you only get a tiny bite at each stop, so make sure you arrive hungry. We were absolutely stuffed by the end!

We also loved that the tour included a ride in a traditional tricycle, which made the whole experience feel even more local. Our guide explained what we were eating as we went and shared lots of context about Filipino food culture, which made the dishes much more interesting than simply ordering them at random.

Another thing we really liked is that the tour gives you a glimpse of everyday life in Manila away from the main sightseeing areas. It felt much more personal and relaxed than just hopping between famous attractions. Just note that it isn’t recommended for vegans or vegetarians, as that’s pretty rare in the Philippines. 

3) Drive into the countryside for a day in Tagaytay 

Manila is an amazing city, but it’s also busy and hectic, so we definitely recommend escaping to the countryside for a day! This full-day tour from Manila takes you to Tagaytay, a highland city known for its cooler climate and beautiful scenery. It’s a popular escape from the capital, and a great way to see a completely different side of the Philippines without traveling too far.

One of the highlights is visiting People’s Park in the Sky, which sits at one of the highest points in Tagaytay. Better still, you’ll travel up in a traditional jeepney! On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the surrounding countryside, including the famous Taal Volcano and lake. Just bear in mind that the views are weather-dependent, so keep your fingers crossed for a clear day!

What we like about this tour is that it doesn’t just focus on Tagaytay. You’ll also visit several historic sights back in Manila, including Paco Park, Manila Cathedral, and Baluarte de San Diego in Intramuros. So if you’re short on time in Manila, it’s a great way to combine the city and countryside in a single day.

We also think this is a great choice if you want to add some nature and breathing room to a city-heavy itinerary. You still get plenty of culture and history along the way, but the highlight is really getting out of Manila for a while and seeing a greener and more peaceful side of the country.

4) Step back in time along Calle Crisologo

If you love beautiful old streets, Calle Crisologo is an absolute must in Vigan. The city is located in northern Luzon, around 400 kilometers (250 miles) north of Manila, so it’s one to add to your itinerary if you’re exploring this part of the Philippines. Vigan is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial towns in Asia!

But what makes Vigan especially interesting is that the architecture isn’t just Spanish colonial. You’ll also see strong Filipino and Chinese influences, which gives the city a really distinctive look. Calle Crisologo is closed to most regular traffic, so you can take your time snapping photos and popping into the little shops and cafés that now fill many of the historic buildings.

We’d recommend exploring early in the morning if you want cooler weather and quieter streets. Then, if you’re still around after dark, come back again! The old houses and shopfronts are beautifully lit in the evening, and the whole street feels even more atmospheric.

You can also ride through the area in a traditional kalesa, which is a fun way to lean into the old-world feel. Rides are usually inexpensive, but make sure to agree on the price before setting off so that you don’t get caught out. 

While you’re here, it’s easy to walk over to Plaza Salcedo and St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, which are both nearby. Just wear decent shoes, because those photogenic cobblestones can be pretty uneven!

5) Tackle Cebu’s most exciting waterfall adventure

Kawasan Falls is one of the most famous natural attractions in Cebu, and we think that canyoneering is the best way to experience it! The falls are located near Badian in southern Cebu, close to Moalboal, and are known for their insanely blue water and tiered natural pools, all of which are set among lush green jungle.

We booked this canyoneering tour because the route involves slippery rocks, currents, scrambling, and waterfall jumps, so we definitely wanted to go with a guide who knew exactly where it was safe to explore. The tour includes a helmet and life jacket too, which takes a lot of the stress out of organizing the adventure yourself.

And this is definitely an adventure! We had a blast as we made our way downstream along the Matutinao River, swimming through pools and climbing through the canyon along the way. We even got to jump from waterfalls and ride a Tarzan swing, which was so much fun! 

You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness and some confidence in the water, but you don’t need any previous canyoneering experience. In fact, if you ask us, this is the best way to experience Kawasan Falls. If you’re going to do one thing in Cebu, we think this should be it!

Related Read: Planning to spend more time exploring Cebu? Check out our guide on where to stay in Cebu to find the best areas and hotels for your trip!

6) Get close to one of the Philippines’ most famous volcanoes 

Taal Volcano is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the Philippines, and it makes for an incredible day trip from Manila. It sits within Taal Lake, around 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of the capital, creating the dramatic volcano-and-lake landscape that Tagaytay is famous for.

If seeing Taal is your main priority, we recommend this countryside and volcano tour from Manila. Rather than just stopping at a viewpoint, you’ll head into the surrounding countryside and take a traditional bangka boat out onto Taal Lake for a much closer look at the volcano from a safe distance.

We also like that this isn’t just a “drive there, take a photo, drive back” kind of tour. You’ll visit a local market, get the chance to try Filipino food and fresh fruit, and explore more of the countryside surrounding Manila. Depending on conditions, the day can even include a hike to a hidden waterfall!

Taal is an active volcano, so access and activities around it can change according to current conditions. That’s another reason we think joining an organized tour makes sense, as you’ll be exploring with local guides who know the area well. If you want spectacular scenery but also a taste of rural life beyond Manila, this tour packs a lot into one day, and it does it in a safe and fun way. What’s not to love?

Related Read: Spending a few days in the capital? Our 3-day Manila itinerary combines the city’s must-see sights, local food, and an epic day trip so you can make the most of your time!

7) Watch the sunset from Boracay’s White Beach

If you’re heading to Boracay, you’re going to spend a lot of time on White Beach! Boracay is a small island in the Western Visayas, and this gorgeous stretch of sand runs for around 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) along its western coast. It’s famous for its powdery white sand and clear, shallow water, and it really does look just as beautiful as it does in the photos – better, even!

White Beach is split into three areas, known simply as Stations 1, 2, and 3. Station 1 is generally the most upscale and has a wider stretch of sand, while Station 2 is where you’ll find the most restaurants and shops, as well as bars and fire-dancing shows in the evening! But if you want somewhere a little quieter, head towards Station 3, because the atmosphere here is a bit more laid back. 

You can walk between all three along the beachfront path, and we think it’s worth exploring beyond whichever station you’re staying in. But whatever you do, make sure you’re back on the sand for sunset!

Since White Beach faces west, you get an incredible view as the sun sinks straight over the ocean. For obvious reasons, it gets busy here in the late afternoon, so we recommend arriving a little early and grabbing a drink or two from one of the beachfront bars as you wait for the spectacle to begin. Sometimes the simplest experiences really are the best!

8) Swim alongside whale sharks in Cebu

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, so getting into the water alongside one is a pretty surreal experience! Despite their enormous size, they’re gentle, slow-moving creatures, and seeing one glide past you underwater is the kind of moment you won’t forget in a hurry. 

Oslob, on the southern tip of Cebu, has become one of the most famous places in the Philippines to see them, and this private tour combines the experience with several other highlights around the island. In fact, it packs a pretty incredible amount into one day! 

The whale shark swim is the obvious headline attraction, and for good reason. Seeing these huge fish float right alongside you is truly a bucket list experience – we’re sure it will give you chills! 

But the fun doesn’t end there, because you also get to visit Tumalog Falls and relax on the white sandbar at Sumilon Island, which is one of my favorite Philippines activities! After that, you’ll snorkel around the colorful reefs of Pescador Island, and then head to Moalboal to see huge schools of sardines gathering just offshore. You may even spot sea turtles along the way, so the marine life really doesn’t stop with the whale sharks.

We like that the tour organizes all of these separate experiences for you, including the transport between them. Cebu is a big island, so trying to coordinate Oslob, Sumilon, Pescador, and Moalboal independently in one day would be a lot to take on!

9) Climb Mount Tapyas for panoramic Coron views

If you’re visiting Coron, climbing Mount Tapyas is the best way to get a panoramic view of this stunning area! The viewpoint rises directly behind Coron town on Busuanga Island, so it’s easy to reach without needing a tour.

The catch? You have to climb more than 700 steps to get there! It’s not a long hike, but the staircase is exposed, and there’s very little shade, so it can feel pretty tough in Coron’s heat and humidity. We brought plenty of water with us and just took our time here, as there’s no point in rushing.

We went in late afternoon, and that proved to be a good decision. The temperature is a little cooler (though we were both still sweaty by the end) and the sunset from up here is absolutely gorgeous! It gets busy, though, so be sure to get to the summit before the sun starts to sink. 

Make sure your phone is charged if you’re staying for sunset, though. The walk back down can get dark quickly, so you’ll need your flashlight. Seven hundred steps are a lot less fun when you can’t see them!

If you’d rather avoid the crowds, early morning is a great alternative. But either way, the views are absolutely worth the climb!

10) Explore the iconic Chocolate Hills 

If you’re visiting Bohol, you can’t miss the Chocolate Hills! This unusual landscape in the center of the island consists of hundreds of almost perfectly rounded hills stretching as far as you can see. During the dry season, the grass turns brown, which is where the very appropriate name comes from! It’s one of the most iconic sights in the Philippines. 

You can visit independently, but this private Bohol tour is a great option because it combines the Chocolate Hills with several of the island’s other must-see attractions. You’ll head up to the viewing deck for that iconic panoramic view, while your guide explains how this bizarre landscape was formed.

And the Chocolate Hills are only the beginning! You’ll also visit a tarsier conservation area, where you can see the tiny primates that Bohol is famous for. Seriously, these guys are adorable, with enormous eyes and bodies small enough to fit in your hand!

Another highlight is cruising along the lush Loboc River while enjoying a buffet lunch and live music on board. Along the way, you’ll also drive through the Bilar Man-Made Forest, and there are optional stops at historic sites like Baclayon Church.

We think this tour is ideal if you want to see a lot of Bohol without worrying about organizing transport between attractions yourself. You’ll cover nature, wildlife, and history all in one go, with some truly incredible scenery along the way!

Related Read: Not sure where to base yourself for your Bohol adventures? Check out our where to stay in Bohol guide for our favorite areas, hotels, and tips on choosing the right location.

11) Watch the surfers at Cloud 9, Siargao 

Siargao is known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, and Cloud 9 is its most famous surf spot! You’ll find it near General Luna on the southeastern side of the island, where many travelers choose to stay, so it’s easy to visit even if you have zero intention of getting on a surfboard yourself.

Cloud 9 is famous for its powerful waves, and the main break is really only suitable for experienced surfers. But to be honest, we think watching from the sidelines is half the fun! There’s a long wooden boardwalk stretching out over the reef, which gives you a fantastic view of the surfers taking on the waves without having to get wet.

We recommend coming around sunrise if you can drag yourself out of bed. The boardwalk faces east over the Pacific, so you can watch the sky light up over the ocean while surfers paddle out for the day. Late afternoon is gorgeous too, although the sun actually sets on the opposite side of Siargao.

The waves vary depending on the weather, tides, and swell, so don’t necessarily expect the huge barrels you see in photos every day. Surf conditions tend to be at their best from around September through November, when Cloud 9 can get pretty busy. There may be a small local fee to access the boardwalk, but otherwise this is a really affordable way to experience the surf culture that Siargao is famous for!

12) Go scuba diving

The Philippines is one of the best places in Southeast Asia for diving, and as certified divers ourselves, we definitely think you should get underwater at least once while you’re here! The warm water and incredible marine life make this such an incredible place to dive, whether you’re already certified or trying it for the first time. We truly couldn’t believe our eyes! 

There are great dive spots all over the country, so we’ve picked three options in destinations you’re likely to already have on your itinerary. 

Boracay

If you’ve never tried scuba diving before, this beginner experience in Boracay is a great place to start. You’ll learn the basics with a PADI instructor in shallow water before heading out by boat for an open-water dive off White Beach. All of the equipment is included, and the group is kept small, which is exactly what you want when you’re learning something new.

We especially like that this isn’t a certification course, so you can simply try diving without committing to several days of training. If you’ve always wondered what it feels like to breathe underwater, this is a fun way to find out!

Cebu 

Cebu is another fantastic place to try scuba diving, and this experience on Mactan Island is particularly beginner-friendly. The instructors teach you the basic skills before you head into the water, and they’re super patient and reassuring with first-time divers.

Equipment is included, along with underwater photos and videos, which is a really nice touch because you’ll actually have proof of your first dive! The experience starts from Mactan Island, just off Cebu City, so it works really well if you’re staying around this part of Cebu rather than further south in Moalboal.

Panglao Island 

Or if tanks and scuba gear aren’t really your thing, why not try freediving instead? Panglao Island sits just off Bohol, and this beginner course teaches you how to dive underwater using just one breath. Pretty cool, right?

You’ll learn breathing and relaxation techniques, practice in the pool, and then put your new skills to use in open water at Napaling Reef. The course can take you to depths of up to 20 meters (66 feet), which sounds absolutely wild when you realize there’s no tank involved!

This one takes a bit more commitment than a single introductory scuba dive, but if you love being in the water and want to learn a completely new skill, we think it would be such an amazing addition to a Bohol trip.

13) Swim beneath Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor

If swimming beneath a tropical waterfall is on your Philippines bucket list, you’ll love Cambugahay Falls! Located near Lazi on the island of Siquijor, this is the island’s most famous waterfall, with several cascades tumbling into beautiful turquoise pools surrounded by lush jungle.

The best thing to do here is simple: jump in! You can swim between the different pools and cool off beneath the waterfalls while you enjoy the scenery. There are also rope swings at some of the levels, so if you’re feeling brave, you can launch yourself straight into that insanely blue water.

Cambugahay Falls is a really affordable activity, although there are small additional charges for things like the rope swings and changing facilities. We recommend bringing some cash, along with water shoes for the slippery rocks and a dry bag so you don’t have to worry about your phone while you swim.

One thing to know is that you’ll need to tackle a fairly steep set of concrete steps to reach the falls. Going down isn’t too bad, but you’ll definitely feel them on the climb back up!

We’d also recommend getting here early if you can. Cambugahay is one of Siquijor’s most popular attractions, so arriving in the morning means fewer crowds and more space to enjoy those gorgeous pools.

14) Roll up your sleeves for a Filipino cooking class

After eating our way around Manila, we wanted to learn how to make some Filipino food ourselves! We booked this hands-on cooking class in Makati, and it was such a fun way to learn more about the country’s food culture.

The class focuses on merienda, which is the Filipino tradition of enjoying a snack or light meal between regular meals. And “snack” is a pretty loose term here, so don’t worry, we can assure you that you won’t leave hungry! We made a noodle dish, crispy spring rolls, and sweet treats, so there was plenty of food to enjoy by the end.

What we really liked about this class was that it was very hands-on. We got involved with chopping, prepping, and cooking everything ourselves, while our instructor talked us through the ingredients and explained more about Filipino cuisine and culture as we went. The recipes were easy to follow too, so these are dishes you could actually try recreating once you get home.

We always love doing cooking classes when we travel because you learn so much more about a country through its food, and you come away with a new skill at the same time. Plus, you get to sit down and eat everything you’ve made at the end, which is obviously the best part!

Related Read: If you’re planning a few days in the capital, don’t miss our where to stay in Manila guide! We cover the best areas, what each is good for, and our favorite hotels.

15) See the hanging coffins of Sagada

High in the mountains of northern Luzon, Sagada is one of the most fascinating places to visit in the Philippines. This small mountain town is covered in pine trees and full of caves, and the climate here is a lot cooler, so you get some relief from the tropical heat. But the real draw here is decidedly spookier – it’s the unique burial traditions of the local Igorot communities!

We’re talking, of course, about the famous hanging coffins. If you haven’t heard of them before, they’re found around Echo Valley. According to local custom, wooden coffins are placed against the limestone cliffs. It looks pretty incredible, but it’s important to remember that this is a sacred burial landscape rather than a tourist attraction in the traditional sense. 

The custom is often associated with bringing the deceased closer to ancestral spirits, and visiting gives you a fascinating insight into traditions that have been practiced in the region for generations. You’ll need to register with the Sagada Tourism Office before visiting, and we recommend exploring with an accredited local guide. As well as supporting the local community, having a guide means you’ll actually understand the history and cultural significance of what you’re seeing rather than simply stopping to take photos.

The walk through Echo Valley is beautiful in its own right, passing St. Mary the Virgin Church and the community cemetery before continuing towards the cliffs. It’s not a particularly difficult hike, but there are some steps and uneven sections along the way, so make sure to wear proper walking shoes and not flip-flops!

16) Cruise between Cebu’s tropical islands 

Cebu is surrounded by gorgeous little islands and marine sanctuaries, so we definitely think you should spend at least one day out on the water! This island-hopping tour from Cebu City and Mactan takes you to three different islands, with plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling along the way.

You’ll start at Hilutungan Island, where the clear water is full of colorful tropical fish. Then it’s on to Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary, which is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in the area. This is where we got to see sea turtles and giant clams, as well as some truly incredible coral gardens! Then, you’ll finish up at Caohagan Island, where you’ll have some time to explore.

What we really like about this tour is that it really feels like a chilled-out beach day rather than a rushed checklist of stops. A barbecue lunch is included on board too, which sounds pretty perfect after a morning of snorkeling!

It’s also a great option if you’re not the strongest swimmer. Life jackets are provided, and the crew are there to help and reassure you in the water if you don’t feel confident. 

Best of all, the tour takes care of the boats and transport between islands for you. Trying to organize three separate island stops yourself would be a faff, so we think this is a much more relaxing way to experience Cebu’s tropical coastline.

17) Explore Iloilo’s heritage streets and riverfront 

If you want a break from beaches and boat trips, we recommend heading to Iloilo for a change of pace. The city sits on Panay Island in the Western Visayas and is known for its historic architecture and gorgeous riverside. 

Plus, it boasts a pretty great food scene with lots of distinctive local dishes to try. We like Pancit Molo, which is wonton dumpling soup, and KBL, which is a pigeon pea, pork, and jackfruit stew. Casual and street food spots in Iloilo are very affordable, too, so take advantage!

Beyond food, there’s plenty to see in Iloilo. You’ve got Calle Real, the old commercial heart of the city, which features grand buildings and tons of character. We loved the mixture of Art Deco and neoclassical styles here, and the fact that it felt like an authentic downtown area rather than a tourist hub. 

From there, we wandered down towards Plaza Libertad and City Hall, which are both worth checking out. It’s also a good idea to stop by Sunburst Park and see if there’s anything going on, as you can often catch pop-up markets and events here, as well as concerts in the evening.

Later on, we went to the Iloilo River Esplanade for a completely different vibe. The riverside path stretches for kilometers, but you really only need to explore a small section to enjoy it. Be sure to take a photo with the “I Heart Iloilo” sign, and then when you’re ready, you can head to a nearby bar or seafood restaurant to relax and enjoy the views. 

18) Glide through El Nido’s lagoons and limestone islands

No trip to Palawan would be complete without going island hopping in El Nido. This area in the north of the island is famous for its towering limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons, and it really is every bit as beautiful as the photos suggest. More so, in fact! 

I think this small-group island-hopping tour is one of the best ways to see it. The tour follows the classic Tour A route, which takes you to some of El Nido’s most iconic spots, including Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, and 7 Commando Beach.

Big Lagoon is the obvious highlight. You’ll glide across emerald water between enormous limestone cliffs, which is exactly the kind of scenery El Nido is famous for. You’ll have to pinch yourself! Then throughout the rest of the day, you’ll switch between snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on white-sand beaches – sounds dreamy, right?

I also think this is one of those places where booking a tour just makes sense. The lagoons and islands are only accessible by boat, so you can’t really do it on your own. And if you’re going to book a tour, you may as well choose one with great reviews. After all, you can’t come to El Nido without going island hopping – it’s practically mandatory!

Related Read: If El Nido’s dreamy lagoons and islands are calling your name, check out our where to stay in El Nido guide to find the perfect base for exploring them!

19) Try Guimaras mangoes 

If you love mangoes, you need to put Guimaras on your radar! This small island sits just off Iloilo and is famous across the Philippines for producing some of the sweetest mangoes in the country.

The easiest thing to do is simply try one fresh, especially if you’re visiting during the main mango season in April or May. And Guimaras really commits to the theme! You’ll also find mango shakes, dried mango, jams, pastries, and even mango pizza, which sounds bizarre, but don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it! 

I wouldn’t travel to Guimaras just to eat a mango, but if you’re already heading to the island, it’s a must-do. Since Guimaras is only a short ferry ride from Iloilo, it’s easy to hop over if you’re already exploring this part of the Philippines.

And it’s easy to make a day of it, too. Guimaras has some beautiful and quiet beaches, so once you’ve had your fill of mango, you can head on over to one of them to relax for a bit. Alubihod Beach is one of the island’s most popular spots, with soft white sand and calm, clear water that’s ideal for swimming. 

Or if you want to go somewhere quieter, we loved Tatlong Pulo Beach. It feels nice and secluded, and its name means “three islands”, which refers to the fact you can spot three little islands just offshore. It’s super scenic! 

20) Trek through the ancient rice terraces of Batad

If you want to finish your Philippines trip with something truly unforgettable, head north from Manila to the rice terraces of Banaue and Batad. These enormous terraces have been carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people over generations, and seeing them spread across the landscape is absolutely incredible.

Because Batad is so remote, we think this 3-day tour from Manila is one of the easiest ways to experience the area properly. The journey north is long, but once you arrive, you’ll explore the terraces with an accredited local guide and stay overnight in the highlands rather than trying to squeeze everything into a rushed day trip.

The highlight is Batad, where the rice terraces curve around the mountainsides in a huge natural amphitheater. You’ll trek through the paddies and climb to incredible viewpoints, before cooling off with a swim at Tappiya Waterfall. Sounds pretty epic, right?

We also love that this tour gives you a much closer look at life in the Cordillera highlands. You’ll travel by jeepney and stay in local accommodation, so you’re really immersed in it all. It’s also a great experience to spend time with guides who have a real connection to the landscape and communities here.

Yes, it’s a long way from Manila. But this is exactly the kind of place that makes the journey feel completely worth it!

Thanks for reading!

The Philippines is the kind of place that makes you wish you had a few extra weeks to explore! Between island hopping in El Nido, chasing waterfalls in Cebu, eating your way around Manila, and trekking through incredible rice terraces, there’s always another adventure waiting. With more than 7,000 islands, you definitely won’t see it all in one trip – but that’s a pretty good excuse to come back!

Still planning your adventure? Check out the rest of our Philippines blogs! We have plenty more guides covering our favorite places, tours, things to do, where to stay, and everything else you need to plan an epic trip. Here are a few popular blogs to help you get started:

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