What to See in the Philippines: The Best Destinations for Your Travel Itinerary

The Philippines is an archipelago with incredible diversity, from dreamy beaches to stunning cultural landscapes. If you're planning a trip, this list will help you prioritize the destinations that are truly worthwhile.

1. Palawan: El Nido and Coron

If you're looking for the most iconic beaches in the Philippines, chances are the pictures you've seen are from Palawan. In the north of this island are El Nido and Coron, two destinations that are simply must-sees.

• El Nido is a vibrant town that serves as a base for exploring the Bacuit Archipelago. The main activity here is joining one of the boat tours (A, B, C, or D) that take you to discover hidden lagoons, white-sand beaches, and turquoise waters. It's a place of majestic beauty, perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and enjoying beach life.

• Coron , a little further north, is famous for its spectacular karst landscapes and crystal-clear waters—an absolute paradise for diving and snorkeling. Here you can explore inland lakes like Kayangan Lake and dive among World War II shipwrecks. Compared to El Nido, Coron tends to be less crowded and offers a more exclusive feel.

To get to Coron, the most common way is to fly directly to its airport or take a ferry from El Nido (the fast trip takes about 4 hours).

2. The Rice Terraces of Banaue and Batad

No list of the Philippines would be complete without mentioning the rice terraces of the Cordillera. While terraces exist in other countries, those of Banaue and Batad are famous for their scale and incredible slopes, creating a landscape that looks hand-sculpted.

• The best time to visit is between April and May, or from October to November, when the rice is at its greenest and most vibrant. From July to September, during the rainy season, the flooded fields reflect the sky, creating a different but equally spectacular visual effect. It's best to avoid December through March, which is harvest time and the fields can appear drier.

• To explore the area, especially the Batad amphitheater, hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Tours can involve several hours of walking, so appropriate footwear is essential. Getting there requires effort: the most common option is a 9-hour overnight bus from Manila to Banaue.

These terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were created over 2,000 years ago by the Igorot people. The region is ethnographically diverse and offers a profound cultural immersion.

3. Puerto Princesa: Underground River

Also located in Palawan, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is one of the country's natural wonders. Declared one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, it is one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world.

The experience consists of a 40-minute boat ride through a cave, where you can observe ancient rock formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. The journey from Puerto Princesa to the national park entrance takes about two hours. A convenient option is to stay in the village of Sabang, which is closer to the river access.

4. Pagudpud
If after exploring more crowded places you're looking for a place to relax, Pagudpud is an excellent choice. This coastal town, relatively close to the historic city of Vigan, is known for its resorts with private beaches and swimming pools.

It's not a destination with a long list of tourist attractions, so choosing a good resort makes all the difference. It's the ideal place to disconnect, recharge, and enjoy relaxed local cuisine.

Travel tip:

To make the most of your trip to the Philippines, plan your itinerary considering distances and travel times between islands. The combination of Palawan's natural beauty, the Cordillera's cultural heritage, and the tranquility of beaches like Pagudpud will give you a comprehensive overview of what this country has to offer.