Top 10 Places You Should Plan to Visit in the Philippines
The Philippines is a tropical archipelago made up of approximately 7,640 islands, each offering unique adventures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Relocate And Thrive makes your move to Manila easier and you know the best part? Living here opens the door to weekend escapes on stunning tropical beaches and much more. We’ve rounded up some of the top spots you won’t want to miss.
1. Intramuros, Manila
Known as the “Walled City,” Intramuros is one of Manila’s most famous tourist attractions. Wander through cobblestone streets, visit San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and explore Fort Santiago. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the country’s colonial history while staying in the heart of the capital.
2. Rizal Park, Manila
Just a short walk from Intramuros, Rizal Park is both a cultural and historical landmark. It’s the site of the monument to José Rizal, the country’s national hero, and a favorite place for locals to relax, walk, or enjoy family picnics.
3. Tagaytay (Day Trip from Manila)
Only a couple of hours away from Manila, Tagaytay offers cool weather, stunning views of Taal Volcano, and a laid-back vibe. A day trip is possible, but the traffic coming back to Manila is normally quite heavy, especially on a Sunday. Famous restaurants such as Antonios or Asador Alfonso need to be booked in advance.
4. Batangas Beaches (Near Manila)
Batangas is the go-to spot for quick beach trips from Manila. Popular areas like Nasugbu, Laiya, and Anilao are known for white sand beaches, clear waters, and world-class diving. They’re safe, convenient, and perfect for a short getaway.
5. Palawan – El Nido and Coron
Consistently voted among the world’s most beautiful islands, Palawan is a must on your Philippines travel list. El Nido is famous for limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons, while Coron offers shipwreck diving and stunning island-hopping tours. Both destinations are safe and well-prepared for tourists.
6. Boracay Island
Boracay is world-renowned for its powdery white sand beaches and lively nightlife and stunning sunsets. After its major environmental rehabilitation, Boracay is now cleaner and more sustainable, making it one of the safest and most popular islands to visit in the Philippines.
7. Cebu City & Mactan Island
Cebu offers the best of both worlds—historic sites in the city (like Magellan’s Cross) and beach resorts in nearby Mactan. It’s also a gateway to adventure, from swimming with whale sharks in Oslob to exploring waterfalls like Kawasan Falls.
8. Bohol Island
Bohol is famous for the Chocolate Hills, a natural wonder that looks especially magical at sunset. Visitors can also see the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier, or relax on Panglao’s beaches. It’s a safe and family-friendly island to explore.
9. Vigan, Ilocos Sur
Step back in time in Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage City known for its preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Stroll along Calle Crisologo in a horse-drawn calesa and enjoy authentic Ilocano cuisine.
10. Banaue Rice Terraces
Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the Banaue Rice Terraces showcase the ingenuity of ancient Filipino engineering. These stunning landscapes in northern Luzon are perfect for trekking and connecting with local Ifugao culture.
From the bustling streets of Manila to the serene beaches of Palawan and Boracay, the Philippines has something for every traveler. Whether you want a quick day trip near Manila or a tropical island escape, these top 10 destinations highlight the best the country has to offer in 2025.
Planning a move or an extended stay? At Relocate and Thrive, we help newcomers settle in smoothly while enjoying all the beauty and culture the Philippines has to offer.