6 Best Cities to Visit in The Philippines

6 best cities to visit in the Philippines

Source: Wikimedia

The Philippines is a country of islands. The country is made up of 7,000 islands! That’s not all, the Philippines has 120 cities, categorized into 180 provinces and grouped into 17 regions! 

Of these 120 cities, there are top 5 which are representative of the country’s history, culture, economic and tourist attractions.

1. Manila 

Manila City. Image Source: Pixabay

This has the capital city of the Philippines for four centuries. The city whose original name was Maynilad was derived from that of the nilad plant, a flowery shrub that grows on the banks of the Pasig River, where the city is situated. The name was then shortened to Maynila, before being christened its present name Manila. Manila is also one of the most densely populated cities in the world!!! The city is located on the island of Luzon at the shore of Manila Bay. It is the country’s economic, political, cultural and social hub. 

The city’s architecture reflects American, Spanish, Chinese, and Malay influences. When in the Philippines, make sure to visit Fort Santiago, the building where Philippine’s hero Dr. José Rizal was incarcerated. Another popular place is the National Museum of the Filipino People, the Rizal Park, Pinto Art Museum, San Agustin Church and many more places. The city populated, but has warm people and is one to visit!

2. Cebu City

Cebu
Image Source: Pixabay

This is a modernized city. It is situated in the Central Visayas Region in the island of Cebu and is considered as a 1st class city. It is the oldest city in the Philippines and is also known as the ‘Queen City in the South’. The historic city is the center of Christianity in the Philippines. The colorful Sinulog Festival is usually held during the winter period; when tourists usually visit the city! The city has colonial architecture and has beautiful mountainous surroundings. It was chartered in 1936, after being opened to foreign trade in 1890. The city has also preserved a strong Spanish cultural heritage but is mostly cosmopolitan thanks to English and Chinese language influences. Some highlights of the beautiful Cebu City include the famous Basilica de Minore del Santo Niño Church, Fort San Pedro, the viewing deck of the city at Mt. Busay, Museo Sugbo, Café Laguna, Rico’s Lecho as well as a robust nightlife.

3. Davao City

The Davao City is the home to the Philippines ’ highest mountain, Mount Apo and the Durian Dome. It is one of the Philippines’ largest islands and the third most populous after Manila and Quezon cities. The People’s Park which is situated in the city center has an array of sculptures and fountains. One of the most notable features of the city is the Davao River that cuts through the city! It is largely a commercial center with 50 small ports handling traffic and cargo. It was originally a Japanese colony but was razed down during World War II and rebuilt with a huge Spanish, American and Moorish influence. The city is also known as the ‘Durian Capital of the Philippines’. 

4. Cagayan de Oro

St Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral
Image: Wikimedia Commons

This is a water rafting city, also known as the ‘Golden City of Friendship’. The city is situated in northern Mindanao. It is the capital of the Province of Misamis Oriental. The name Cayman comes from Malayo-Polynesian word ‘Ag’ which means ‘Kayag’ (which also means ‘river’). This town is a heaven for adventure lovers. There are so many outdoor activities to do, in the town that is very much modern but with a touch of the countryside feel. Since it is a town by the river, there are many water activities to do in the area like white water rafting, river tubing or kayaking, Mapawa Nature Park, Macahambus Hill Cave, Eden’s Solace, Xavier Museum, City Museum of Cagayan de Oro, a visit to the high ridge for amazing views, there is also the Bukidson Del Monte Pineapple farm where people go for side trips! Oh and the town boasts of some of the most amazing foods out there- sinuglaw, Jamon de Cagayan and roasted cashew nuts!

5. Vigan 

Vigan City
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

This city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also showcases a Spanish colonial architecture in the Philippines. It is located on the west side of Luzon Island. The city is very well known for its preserved Spanish and Asian architecture. A very good way to explore Vigan is to visit Cale Crisologo, with its horse-drawn carriages, rustic mansion, and cobblestone streets. The Plaza Salcedo, fountain light shows, the Plaza Burgos, the Vigan Cathedral are just some of the most memorable places to experience in Vigan. The street food stalls also offer great cuisine experience.

6. Boracay 

A beach in Boracay
Image Source: Pixabay

Borocay is in every sense of the word Philippines’ beach capital! I mean, the city has 17 beaches that offer the best sun and sand experiences for beach lovers. White Beach, which is one of the beaches in Borocay, is one of the best beaches in the whole country, while Puka Shell Beach is the best for shell collectors. Cagban Beach, on the other hand, has amazing caves (Instagram moments right there). The island city offers the best water sport activities in the Philippines like surfing, snorkeling, and kiteboarding! You can also indulge in some history by visiting the Motag Living Museum, which has amazing cultural, culinary, musical and economic past of the people of the Philippines. Hike Mount Luho, the highest point in Borocay and experience the most beautiful scenery around, and on your way up, you might be lucky enough to spot a few animals and birds here and there. 

Crocodile Island is a must-visit. It is called the crocodile island because of its shape. It mimics a crocodile floating on the clear water and has a very large variety of marine life- different types of fish, corals and any others. People also go there for watersports- snorkeling being one of the most popular. Willy’s Rock is also a popular and beautiful place to experience while in the city. Boracay Oceanarium has the Philippines’ longest underwater tunnel and the world’s longest pearls and is in fact located in the basement of the Crowne Regency Resort and Convention Centre. The volcanic rock houses a statue of the Virgin Mary which people access using stairs. It gets a lot of visitors especially Catholics. Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church is also a gem in the area. The city has many activities, beaches and hiking lovers will definitely love this small beautiful coastal city!