The best places to go and visit Manila, Philippines are easy to reach. If you have maps or related apps installed on your gadgets and phones, you’ll know their directions and information of each tourist attraction easily. Taxis are cheap too so transportation is not a problem.
Many foreigners visit the country for its stunning beaches and hospitable culture. Visiting the Pearl of the Orient is a sure unforgettable experience. Many tourists stay in Manila upon arrival for few more days to explore the heart of Manila, the business district of Makati, Manila Ocean Park, the historical places such as the Rizal Park, Intramuros and the National Museum, one of the biggest Mall in the world (Mall of Asia), the nightlife in the pubs of Eastwood, The Fort and Ortigas. After Manila, it’s cool to visit the rest of the islands (like Cebu, Bohol, Palawan, Boracay, Vigan and many more) up to the length of your stay.
Boracay, Aklan
Boracay is, without a shadow of a doubt, the ultimate beach destination and one of the top places to visit in the Philippines. Voted as one of the world’s best islands in 2015 by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler, this world-famous island lures travel junkies from all corners of the earth with its magnificent sunsets, dazzling waters and soft white sands. Furthermore, it has a buzzing nightlife scene that would give Ibiza – the world’s party capital – a run for its money.
Batanes Islands, Batanes
Batanes Highlands. Photo by Lailani Salaguinto-Jabonete
Batanes is one of the most wanted tourist destinations in the Philippines. A trip to the province will give you the most unique sceneries of the country, which include unspoiled islands that will satisfy nature lovers, livestock freely roaming above endless green hills, massive cliffs overlooking oceans under the blue skies, rocky shores and white sand beaches, and the rich cultural heritage of the Ivatans.
Coron, Palawan
Coron, often revered as one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines, is truly a spectacular tropical paradise that will wow you in a lot of different ways. Praised for its postcard-perfect scenery, this Philippine destination delights its visitors with its crystalline waters, pristine white-sand beaches, towering limestone cliffs, and picturesque remote islands. What’s more, Coron has decent and colorful corals, and has a host of underwater wrecks, making it one of the best places to visit in the Philippines for diving aficionados.
Mayon Volcano, Albay
The Mayon Volcano in the Albay province on Luzon Island is a must-see in the Philippines. It is an active stratovolcano with an elevation of more than 2,400 meters. The Mayon volcano has a perfect cone peak. Most visitors will want to enjoy the volcano by viewing it from the ground. Nature trails in the national park grounds surround the volcano, where you can also see wildlife like parakeets and other birds. Extreme hikers can apply for a permit to climb the volcano, but it is a difficult trek through forest, and dangerous gases are emitted near the peak, so caution is advised. The ideal time to visit is March through May, outside of the rainy season. You can take an organized trip from Manila to get here.
5 Chocolate Hills, Bohol
Rizal Park
CC BY ND upto6only/com Flickr Photostream
Rizal Park or Luneta Park is the most famous landmark in Manila. The country’s national hero and genius, Jose Rizal’s monument stands in the facade of the park across the Roxas Boulevard and the Manila Bay. Many tourists and locals go there every day to have some photos taken in the famous statue and park. No entrance fee in the park so chillax.
Fort Santiago and Intramuros
One of my favorite places to visit in Manila is Fort Santiago, also part of the famous Intramuros. If you love visiting historical places and seeing vintage stuffs, you’ll surely enjoy this place. Fort Santiago was where Jose Rizal spent his last days before his execution. He also had written some of his writings here. Seeing Fort Santiago mirrors the life and culture of the country during the Spanish times and the sixteenth century. You’ll see here some Rizal’s anecdotes, novels, attire, the room where he was a prisoner, the room where he used to write, his table, his pens, lamps, and yeah I remember seeing a part of Rizal’s spinal bone preserved in the museum there. I think the entrance fee in Fort Santiago and Intramuros cost around 75 pesos. There are also Kalesa or carriage around the area in case you want to tour around riding it. Only 250 for 30 minutes I think.
Mall of Asia
Manila Ocean Park
This one is one of the most favorite hotspots in the metro. The Manila Ocean Park shows amazing aquatic and marine life in awesome facilities and high technology tools to let children and marine lovers experience the best trip and see other aquatic species. Some activities are also available for visitors – dive and swim with the sharks, fishes and cute adorable creatures into the deep…
Manila Bay or Baywalk
CC BY SA Benson Kua Flickr Photostream
In line with the Manila Ocean Park and the US embassy, is the Manila Bay, usually called as Baywalk, too. Perfect venue to chill and watch the ships, yachts and the sunset.
Manila
The capital city of Manila is the point of arrival for many visitors to the Philippines and has many attractions. The old walled city of Intramuros has a range of museums, restaurants and shops as well as Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago, which was once a Spanish fort and garrison. Other popular tourist venues include Manila Ocean Park, a modern oceanarium and Malacanang Palace, the 18th-century building that acts as the official residence of the Philippine president. The city has a lively and varied nightlife with bars, restaurants, casino and karaoke cafes. The Malate district is a busy bohemian area.
Boracay
Boracay is a small island north of Panay. It has some of the finest sand beaches in the Philippines, and you can swim, enjoy a beach massage, or try water sport activities in crystal clear waters. Visit the shopping malls after a day at the beach or take your chances with the vendors selling watches, jewelry and sunglasses along the seafront. Boracay is also a place to party. It has countless bars, restaurants and clubs with a range of hotels to cater for the large number of tourists.
