Philippines Attractions Guide 2026

Top attractions

The most popular and significant attractions in Philippines.

1. 1

   Boracay White Beach

   Adult Free (environmental fee 75 PHP) · Child Free3-4 hours

   Boracay's iconic 4-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters is consistently ranked among the world's best beaches. The beach is divided into three stations, each offering different atmospheres from party scenes to tranquil relaxation. Perfect for swimming, sunset watching, and water sports.

   Tip: Visit Station 1 for quieter, upscale atmosphere · Station 2 is the busiest with restaurants and shops · Best sunset views around 5:30-6:00 PM · Book activities in advance during peak season

2. 2

   Puerto Princesa Underground River

   Adult 1500 PHP (including permits and boat) · Child 1000 PHP4-6 hours (including travel)

   This UNESCO World Heritage Site features an 8.2-kilometer navigable underground river that flows through a spectacular cave system before emerging into the South China Sea. The tour takes you through impressive rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, with bats and swiftlets inhabiting the caves. One of the New7Wonders of Nature.

   Tip: Book permits at least 2-3 days in advance · Tours limited to preserve the ecosystem · Bring insect repellent and waterproof bags · Combined with Sabang Beach trip recommended

3. 3

   Chocolate Hills

   Adult 50 PHP · Child 25 PHP1-2 hours

   Over 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills spread across 50 square kilometers create one of the Philippines' most surreal landscapes. During dry season, the grass turns brown, resembling chocolate kisses. Climb the 214 steps to the viewing deck for panoramic views of this geological wonder.

   Tip: Visit early morning for fewer crowds and better light · Best viewed in dry season (February-May) when hills turn brown · Combine with nearby tarsier sanctuary visit · Bring water and sun protection

4. 4

   Intramuros

   Adult 75 PHP (Fort Santiago) · Child 50 PHP3-4 hours

   The historic walled city of Manila built by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century offers a glimpse into colonial Philippines. Walk along ancient walls, visit baroque churches including the UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church, explore Fort Santiago where national hero José Rizal was imprisoned, and ride through cobblestone streets in traditional kalesa carriages.

   Tip: Take a guided walking tour for historical context · Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat · Don't miss San Agustin Church and Museum · Try bamboo bike tours for eco-friendly exploration

5. 5

   El Nido Lagoons

   Adult 1200-1400 PHP (Tour A or C with lagoons) · Child 1000-1200 PHPFull day (6-8 hours)

   El Nido's dramatic limestone cliffs hide secret lagoons with emerald waters accessible only by kayak or small boats. Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon offer stunning scenery and excellent snorkeling. Island hopping tours showcase the best of Bacuit Archipelago's 45 islands and beaches.

   Tip: Book Tour A for Big and Small Lagoon · Tour C includes Secret Lagoon and Matinloc Shrine · Bring underwater camera and dry bag · Apply reef-safe sunscreen only

6. 6

   Mayon Volcano

   Adult Free to view; climbing 5000+ PHP · Child Free to view2-3 hours (viewing); 2 days (summit climb)

   Known as the world's most perfect cone, Mayon Volcano rises 2,463 meters with near-perfect symmetrical slopes. While climbing to the summit requires permits and guides, the Cagsawa Ruins offer stunning foreground views. The active volcano last erupted in 2018, adding dramatic smoke plumes to photos.

   Tip: Best viewed from Cagsawa Ruins with church foreground · Early morning offers clearest views before clouds form · Check volcanic activity status before climbing · Hire experienced guides for summit attempts

7. 7

   Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

   Adult 5000 PHP conservation fee + liveaboard costs · Child Same as adult4-7 days (liveaboard trip)

   This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world's best diving destinations, featuring pristine coral reefs, 600+ fish species, sharks, rays, and sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Accessible only by liveaboard dive boats during March-June, when the sea is calmest.

   Tip: Book liveaboard 6-12 months in advance · Advanced diving certification recommended · Expect strong currents and deep dives · Conservation fees support reef protection

8. 8

   Banaue Rice Terraces

   Adult 20-50 PHP (viewpoint fees) · Child 20-50 PHP4-6 hours (full day with trekking)

   These 2,000-year-old rice terraces carved into the Cordillera mountains by the Ifugao people are often called the Eighth Wonder of the World. The terraces still function as working rice fields, showcasing indigenous agricultural engineering across stunning mountain landscapes.

   Tip: Visit in June-July or December-January for lush green terraces · Hire local Ifugao guides for trekking · Stay overnight to catch sunrise views · Respect local culture and working farms

9. 9

   Kawasan Falls

   Adult 45 PHP entrance + 200 PHP parking · Child 45 PHP3-4 hours (6-7 hours with canyoneering)

   This three-tiered turquoise waterfall system in Cebu offers stunning natural pools perfect for swimming. The main falls feature a dramatic 40-meter cascade into a deep azure pool. Popular for canyoneering adventures that include cliff jumping, swimming through gorges, and rappelling.

   Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially weekends · Book canyoneering tours (1500-2000 PHP) in advance · Bring waterproof bags for valuables · Wear water shoes with good grip

10. 10

    Taal Volcano

    Adult 500-800 PHP (boat + guide + horse) · Child 500-800 PHP4-6 hours (from Manila)

    The world's smallest active volcano sits on an island within a lake, which itself is on an island (Luzon). The unique geological formation offers dramatic hiking to the crater lake. Located just 50km from Manila, it's one of the most accessible volcano experiences in the Philippines.

    Tip: Check volcanic activity alerts before visiting · Hire horses if not comfortable hiking steep trails · Bring plenty of water and sun protection · Best combined with Tagaytay viewpoint visit

Attractions by category

Explore by your interests.

Hidden gems

Off-the-beaten-path attractions worth seeking out.

Practical information

What you need to know before you go.

Hours

Most museums and heritage sites open Tuesday-Sunday 9AM-5PM (closed Mondays). National Museums open until 5PM. Outdoor attractions accessible daily from sunrise to sunset.

Fees

National Museums are free. Most heritage sites PHP 50-200. Island and nature parks PHP 150-500+ including permits. Private nature reserves like Masungi Georeserve require advance booking.

Best Times

Early morning (before 9AM) for beaches, viewpoints, and outdoor sites to avoid crowds and heat. Museums best on weekday mornings. Festival periods require accommodation booked months ahead.

Booking

Book Masungi Georeserve 6-8 weeks in advance. Puerto Princesa Underground River permits sell out — book 3-5 days ahead minimum. Tubbataha liveaboard requires booking months in advance.

Tips for visiting attractions

Make the most of your sightseeing time.

Frequently asked questions