Explore where to travel in the Philippines in 2025 with our data-backed guide. We highlight the top destinations based on popularity, uniqueness, and travel accessibility. Discover what makes each location worth your time.
What are the best tourist spots in the Philippines in 2025?
The best tourist spots in the Philippines for 2025 include Palawan, Siargao, Bohol, Banaue, and Batanes. These destinations offer biodiversity, scenic views, rich heritage, and water-based adventures.
1. Palawan: Nature Reserve and Island-Hopping Capital
- Location: Western Philippines
- Key features: UNESCO site, limestone cliffs, underground river
- Top sites: El Nido, Coron, Puerto Princesa
- Why go: Palawan offers the highest-rated island tours and lagoons (Tripadvisor, 2024).
Coron island boat tour
2. Siargao: Surfing and Island Culture
- Location: Mindanao region
- Key features: Cloud 9 surf break, rock pools, island vibe
- Top sites: Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools
- Why go: Siargao ranked as the fastest-growing ecotourism hub (DOT stats, 2023).
3. Bohol: Heritage Meets Natural Beauty
- Location: Central Visayas
- Key features: Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, Loboc River
- Top sites: Panglao Island, Anda, Corella Sanctuary
- Why go: Bohol balances eco-tourism and heritage with family-friendly attractions.
4. Banaue & Batad: Rice Terraces and Highlands Culture
- Location: Ifugao, Luzon
- Key features: UNESCO rice terraces, trekking trails
- Top sites: Batad Amphitheater, Banaue Viewpoint
- Why go: Cultural immersion and mountain hiking routes attract heritage travelers.
5. Batanes: Remote, Rugged, Remarkable
- Location: Northernmost point of the Philippines
- Key features: Stone houses, rolling hills, Ivatan culture
- Top sites: Basco Lighthouse, Marlboro Hills
- Why go: Batanes offers isolation with unmatched island serenity.
What should be included in a Philippines travel guide for 2025?
A Philippines travel guide in 2025 should include visa info, local SIM advice, transport options, climate zones, and cultural customs.
| Element | Key Information |
|---|---|
| Visa Policy | 30-day visa-free for 150+ countries |
| Weather | Dry (Dec–May), Wet (Jun–Nov) |
| Currency | Philippine Peso (PHP) |
| Languages | Filipino, English |
| SIM Card Providers | Globe, Smart (tourist SIMs available at airport) |
| Local Transport | Jeepneys, tricycles, ferries, Grab (ride-hailing) |
| Travel Insurance | Highly recommended (natural disasters & health) |
Best Apps and Platforms for Booking Travel in the Philippines
| Category | Recommended Apps / Platforms | Features |
| Domestic Flights | Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, Philippine Airlines | Low-cost, real-time schedules |
| Ferry Booking | 2GO Travel, OceanJet, BookAway | Online ticketing for inter-island ferries |
| Bus Transport | PinoyTravel, Biyaheroes | Book provincial buses like Victory Liner, Coda Lines |
| Hotels | Agoda, Traveloka, Booking.com | Wide range from hostels to resorts |
| Activities & Tours | Klook, KKday | Local tours, skip-the-line tickets, car rentals |
| Ride-Hailing | Grab, JoyRide | Metro and island transport with cashless payment |
What are the top destinations in the Philippines for eco-tourism?
Top eco-tourism destinations include:
- Donsol – Whale shark interaction (WWF-certified)
- Camiguin – Volcanic springs, sunken cemetery
- Ticao Island – Manta rays, diving conservation zones
- Apo Island – Marine sanctuary and snorkeling
- Masungi Georeserve – Limestone formations, forest trails near Manila
Which Philippine islands are best for diving and marine life?
- Tubbataha Reefs – UNESCO site, liveaboard diving
- Anilao, Batangas – Macro photography hub
- Moalboal, Cebu – Sardine run and turtles
- Balicasag Island – Protected marine park in Bohol
- Coron Wrecks – WWII Japanese shipwreck dives
Where can cultural and heritage travelers go in the Philippines?
- Vigan – Spanish colonial city (UNESCO World Heritage)
- Intramuros, Manila – Historical walled city
- Cebu City – Oldest city, Magellan’s Cross
- Iloilo – Ancestral houses, Dinagyang Festival
- Zamboanga – Latin-Asian cultural blend, Fort Pilar
What are the safest places to travel in the Philippines in 2025?
According to 2024 PNP travel safety data:
- Bohol
- Palawan
- Batanes
- Siargao
- Cebu City
These areas report the lowest crime rates and highest tourist satisfaction scores.
What is a recommended 7-day Philippines itinerary for 2025?
Day-by-Day Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival in Manila → Transfer to Palawan
- Day 2: Island-hopping in El Nido (Big Lagoon, Secret Beach)
- Day 3: Coron shipwreck diving or Kayangan Lake
- Day 4: Flight to Bohol → Chocolate Hills & Tarsier Sanctuary
- Day 5: Panglao beach and snorkeling
- Day 6: Ferry to Cebu → Kawasan Falls, Moalboal sardines
- Day 7: Return to Manila or Cebu City tour + flight home
Suggested Itineraries by Travel Type
For Solo Travelers
- Manila → Siargao → Cebu
- Emphasis on surfing, nightlife, and meeting fellow travelers.
- Hostels, shared tours, and Grab rides are optimal.
For Couples
- Palawan → Bohol → Batanes
- Private island-hopping, beach resorts, romantic countryside views.
- Recommended: Coron boat tours, Panglao spa days, Batanes sunset tours.
For Families
- Cebu → Bohol → Manila (Intramuros)
- Zoo, ocean park, river cruises, kid-friendly resorts, and cultural activities.
- Safe, accessible, and flexible transport options.
For Adventure Seekers
- Sagada → Banaue → Camiguin → Siargao
- Caving, trekking, volcano hikes, surfing.
- Requires multi-leg travel and medium fitness level.
Banaue terraces view
Estimated Travel Costs by Region (per day per person)
| Region | Budget (USD) | Mid-Range (USD) | Luxury (USD) |
| Manila | $35 | $80 | $150 |
| Palawan | $50 | $100 | $200 |
| Bohol | $45 | $90 | $180 |
| Cebu | $40 | $85 | $170 |
| Siargao | $40 | $85 | $160 |
| Batanes | $60 | $120 | $220 |
Includes meals, transport, basic tours, and accommodation.
FAQ: Where to Travel in the Philippines (2025)
What is the number one tourist destination in the Philippines?
Palawan is the top destination for 2025, leading in bookings and reviews.
When is the best time to visit the Philippines?
December to May is the dry season, ideal for island travel.
How many islands can tourists visit?
Tourists can access over 2,000 of the 7,641 islands.
Is the Philippines safe for solo travelers?
Yes. Key cities and island destinations are solo-travel friendly.
What’s the cheapest way to travel between islands?
Ferries (2GO, Montenegro) and budget airlines (Cebu Pacific, AirAsia).
