Five Can’t-Miss Cities in the Philippines

The Philippines is a country of more than 7,000 islands, which means there's no shortage of amazing places to explore. From the bustling metropolis of Manila to the laid-back beaches of Boracay, there's something for everyone in this Southeast Asian nation. Here are five cities you shouldn't miss on your next trip to the Philippines.

Manila

As the capital city of the Philippines, Manila is unsurprisingly the country's busiest and most populous metropolitan area. But don't let that deter you - Manila is also one of Southeast Asia's most exciting and vibrant cities. Here are some of the best things you can do in the city.

Shopping

Manila is home to many shopping destinations. One of the biggest malls in the world, SM Mall of Asia, is located here, as well as the posh Greenbelt malls. For a unique shopping experience, check out Divisoria Market, where you can find everything from clothes to electronics at bargain prices.

Food

Manila is famous for its wide array of delicious food. From street food staples like grilled meats on a stick (known as skewered) to Filipino classics like adobo (a dish made with chicken or pork braised in vinegar and soy sauce), there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Invest

Manila is one of the best places to do it if you want to make some money while visiting a city. The city sells some of the best properties in the Philippines, so expect them to be expensive. However, their prices will undoubtedly increase in the coming years, making them fantastic investments.

Cebu City

Cebu City is located on the eastern coast of the island of Cebu and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. Thanks to its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical scenery, it's easy to see why Cebu City is such a popular destination. During your visit, don't miss out on exploring some of the city's historical landmarks, like Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro.

Davao City

Davao City is located on Mindanao Island in the southern Philippines and is known as one of the safest cities in Asia. This bustling metropolis is home to many attractions, from pristine beaches and waterfalls to hiking trails and nature parks. Here are some great things you can do when visiting Davao City.

Invest

Much like Manila, the city of Davao has some of the best real estate properties. However, condominiums for sale in Davao City are a fraction of what their Manila counterparts cost, making them an even more significant investment. Some of the best places to invest include Bajada, Matina, and Lanang.

Durian Picking

Davao is famous for its durian, a type of fruit that is notorious for its pungent smell. However, if you're brave enough to try it, head to one of the many durian farms outside the city, where you can pick your fruit.

Baguio City

Baguio City is located about 250 kilometers north of Manila in Luzon Island's Cordillera Administrative Region. This mountain resort city is famous for its cool weather (which averages around 21 degrees Celsius year-round) and beautiful pine forests. During your visit, don't miss out on visiting some of Baguio City's most popular attractions, like Burnham Park, Mines View Park, and the Philippine Military Academy. Additionally, here are some outdoor activities you can do in Baguio City.

Hiking

Baguio is surrounded by mountains, making it the perfect place to go hiking. There are many trails of varying difficulty levels, so there's something for everyone. One of the most popular trails is Mt. Pulag National Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Camping

Another great way to enjoy Baguio City's outdoors is by camping. Many campsites are located around the city, so you can easily find one that suits your needs. Some of the best grounds include Camp John Hay and Botanical Garden. However, ensure that you're prepared for your camping trip. If not, get some local guides to help you out so you can be safe.

Boracay

Lastly, Boracay is an island off the coast of Aklan Province in the central Philippines. This small island has become world-famous for its stunning white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical scenery. When you're not relaxing on Boracay's many beaches, check out some of the island's other attractions, like Willy's Rock Formation and Crocodile Island.

These are just five of the many amazing places to visit in the Philippines. So whether you're looking for a bustling metropolis or a laid-back beach town, you will find it in this Southeast Asian nation. Bon, voyage!