Your Ultimate Guide to the 10 Best Cities to Visit in the Philippines

The Philippines, an archipelago nestled in Southeast Asia, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. Comprising over 7,000 islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean, the country is blessed with stretches of mesmerising beaches and breathtaking landscapes.

However, beyond its natural beauty, the Philippines boasts vibrant cities that are rich in history, culture, and modern attractions. Each of these cities presents a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making them the best places to visit in Phillippines for travellers seeking diverse experiences. Whether you are a history enthusiast eager to explore colonial architecture, a foodie looking to savour local delicacies, or an adventure seeker ready to dive into crystal-clear waters, the cities of the Philippines have something to offer to everyone.

To help you have the best experience, here is a short guide to the best cities in Philippines that you can visit for an unforgettable experience.

Best Cities to Visit in the Philippines

The Philippines is not just about beautiful islands and pristine beaches; its cities are filled with stories, flavours, and experiences waiting to be discovered. From the mega capital city of the Philippines, Manila, to the lovely beaches of Cebu and the stunning natural wonders of Palawan, the Philippines is a vast country with so much to see and do.

Here are some major cities in Philippines that you must visit:

• Manila
• Cebu
• Makati
• Iloilo
• Puerto Princesa
• Davao
• Vigan
• Baguio
• Quezon
• Angeles

Manila

Manila, the capital city of Philippines, is the heart and soul of the country. By population, Manila is the 17th largest city in the world, however, the city is more than just a large population. Nicknamed “Pearl of the Orient”, Manila is a bustling historic city filled with a range of things to do and see, including museums, parks, theatres, shopping malls and much more. The city's culinary scene is equally impressive, filled with a variety of Filipino cuisines and street markets, such as the Legazpi Sunday Market, Quiapo Market, and the historic Chinatown of Binondo.

Some must-visit attractions of the capital city of Philippines are Manila Ocean Park, Rizal Park, San Agustin Church, Manila Zoo, Intramuros, National Museum of Fine Arts, and Fort Santiago.

Cebu City

Referred to as the “Queen City of South”, Cebu City is a major cultural, economic, and political hub, known for its historical significance as the oldest city in Philippines. The city is home to historic sites like Fort San Pedro, the oldest Spanish fort in the country, and Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, a renowned Catholic church. It also boasts beautiful beaches, including Mactan Island, a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.

With its delicious local cuisine, lively festivals, and friendly locals, Cebu City is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Philippines.

Makati

Located in the heart of Metro Manila, Makati is one of the main cities in the Philippines known for its large glass skyscrapers, world-class shopping centres, and vibrant nightlife. The city is probably the most urbanized city in Philippines and is also the country’s premier financial district and central business hub. The city is home to various multinational companies and embassies, drawing millions of people to work in the city during the day.

Some of the best attractions in Makati include Greenbelt, Poblacion, Ayala Museum, Ayala Triangle Gardens, and Rockwell Center.

Iloilo

Often referred to as “The heart of Philippines”, Iloilo city in Philippines is a hub of history, culture, and gastronomy experiences. The charming city, located on the island of Panay, boasts stunning Spanish colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a rich cultural heritage. The city is also renowned for its Dinagyang Festival, which is a captivating religious event showcasing the rich cultural heritage and unwavering spirit of the Iloilo people.

Some must-visit places in Iloilo City Philippines include Jaro Cathedral, St. Anne Parish Church, Calle Real, and Smallville Complex.

Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan, is a hidden gem in the Philippines renowned for being the cleanest and greenest city in Philippines. This vibrant city is home to a myriad of natural and cultural wonders that are sure to captivate you. Among its most breathtaking attractions is the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning limestone formations and rich biodiversity. While visiting, you can also enjoy island hopping in Honda Bay or explore historical landmarks like the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Plaza Cuartel.

Davao

Davao City, located in the Mindanao region of the Philippines, is renowned for offering a perfect blend of natural and man-made attractions. It is the largest city in the country by land area and is also home to one of the tallest mountains, Mount Apo. Some must-visit places in Davao include Roxas Night Market, People’s Park Davao, Philippine Eagle Center, and Davao Crocodile Park.

Vigan

Very few places in the Philippines still retain the architecture of old Spanish colonialism and one of them is Vigan. Located in the southern part of the Philippines, Vigan City is among the major cities in Philippines, renowned for its unique blend of cultural heritage and historical significance. The city is also recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. Some tourist attractions that you must visit while in this Philippian city include Wander Calle Crisologo​, Dancing Fountain, Plaza Burgos, and Bantay Watch Tower.

 Baguio

Nestled within the mountains region of Luzon Island, Baguio is a mountainside city, often referred to as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”. Known for its cool climate and stunning landscapes, Baguio sits at an elevation of approximately 1,540 meters (5,050 feet) above sea level, making it a popular retreat from the tropical heat experienced in most of the country. The city is famous for its lush pine forests, colourful flower gardens, and numerous parks, including Burnham Park and Mines View Park, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Besides these parks, some other must-visit attractions in Baguio include Session Road, Camp John Hay, Baguio Night Market, and Bencab Museum.

Quezon

One of the biggest and most populous cities in the Philippines, Quezon City is the perfect destination for when you want to escape the chaos of Manila. The city formerly served as the capital of Philippines and is home to serval government institutions, prestigious universities, and entertainment companies. It also houses the biggest mall in the Philippines as well as multiple churches and nature reserves, promising you a fulfilling experience.

Some must-visit attractions in Quezon City Philippines include Quezon City Circle, Maginhawa Street, La Mesa Ecopark, Timog Avenue and Tomas Morato Avenue.

Angeles

Angeles City in Philippines is a city rich in history and heritage, with old and historically significant buildings dotting its landscape. However, nowadays, the city is also best known for its high concentration of casinos and sometimes questionable nightlife, making it effectively the Sin City of the Philippines. This intriguing blend of culture and entertainment makes Angeles a unique place to visit.

Some must-visit attractions of Angeles City Philippines include the Clark Museum, Museo Ning Angeles, Holy Rosary Church, Angeles City Bar and Clubs, Nayong Pilipino Clark, and the Museum of Philippine Social History.

As we conclude our exploration of the main cities in the Philippines that are a must-visit, it's clear that the country has so much to offer. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture in Manila, enjoy the stunning beaches of Cebu, or experience the vibrant nightlife of Angeles City, each destination provides a unique glimpse into Filipino life.

For a hassle-free and memorable trip, consider booking a Philippines tour package from Veena World. Our packages are curated with your needs in mind, ensuring that you witness all the Philippines has to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that makes the Philippines an unforgettable destination with Veena World.