Best places to visit in the Philippines

Separated from the rest of Southeast Asia, the Philippines has always played by its own rules. As the only Asian country colonized by Spain, it stands out – think centuries-old churches, fiesta-loving towns, and a culture that mixes Islamic, Malay, Spanish, and American influences. It feels closer to Latin America than it does to nearby Thailand or Vietnam.

This lush archipelago of over 7,000 islands delivers more than just turquoise seas and year-round sun. Some of the best places to visit in the Philippines range from elegant colonial towns and jungle-covered peaks to ancient rice terraces and pristine coral reefs. One moment you're surfing Siargao or diving off Apo Island, the next you're exploring cave systems or visiting Indigenous mountain villages.

Wherever you go, you’ll find mouthwatering food, warm welcomes, and festivals that don’t hold back. Variety is the norm – and that’s exactly why you won’t want to leave.