Philippines

Places in Philippines

• Alaminos

  Alaminos City is a vibrant coastal city in Pangasinan province, Philippines, best known as the gateway to the Hundred Islands National Park. The city has a growing tourism industry largely attributed to this natural wonder.

  Atlas entry

• Alaminos, Laguna

  Alaminos is a small hillside town in Laguna province along the Maharlika Highway, best known for its seasonal lanzones and rambutan available September to October. Travelers passing through can visit the Spanish colonial-era Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church, browse heritage houses near Fule Mansion, or pick up fresh goat dairy products at the Alaminos Goat Farm.

  Atlas entry

• Alcala

  Alcala is a small 3rd class municipality in Pangasinan province, Philippines, with a 2020 population of 49,000. It offers a glimpse of rural Philippine life away from major tourist destinations.

  Atlas entry

• Alona Beach

  Alona Beach is a compact resort strip with dive shops and sea-front dining. Offshore trips add reefs, dolphins and nearby island scenery to a beach stay.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$45

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Anda

  Anda offers one of the nicest beaches in the Philippine islands with clean public facilities and decent coffee. Unlike busier Bohol destinations, it provides a quieter atmosphere while still offering access to waterfalls, caves, and the famous Chocolate Hills.

  Atlas entry

• Angeles

  Angeles combines the legacy of Clark Airbase with nightlife and Pampangan food. Historic houses and excursions toward Pinatubo add options beyond the entertainment district.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$43

  Best months

  Nov–Apr

• Angono

  Angono is the self-proclaimed Art Capital of the Philippines, home to two national artists including muralist Carlos 'Botong' Francisco. The town of about 130,000 people maintains a small-town feel despite its proximity to Manila.

  Atlas entry

• Antipolo

  Antipolo is a highland city and the capital of Rizal province, sitting 200 m above sea level. It offers a respite from Manila's chaos with scenic views of the metropolis.

  Atlas entry

• Aparri

  Aparri is a small trading-town gateway in northern Cagayan, sitting at the mouth of the Cagayan River where it meets the Babuyan Channel. While the town has limited tourist infrastructure, it serves as the jumping-off point for Calayan Island and lies along the route between Tuguegarao and Ilocos Norte.

  Atlas entry

• Apo Island

  Apo Island is one of the Philippines' premier diving destinations, featured on a top-hundred world list by a divers' magazine. The island hosts a celebrated community-organised marine sanctuary with over 650 documented fish species and more than 400 coral species, plus frequent sea turtle sightings.

  Atlas entry

• Babatngon

  Babatngon draws Filipino picnickers to Busay Falls during the summer months, when cool water cascades over moss-covered rock into a natural bowl. The town sits at the northern mouth of San Juanico Strait, with coconut-covered islets dotting the shore—making it a scenic stop between Tacloban and northern Leyte towns.

  Atlas entry

• Bacacay

  Bacacay is a low-key fishing municipality nicknamed the "Beach City" for its shoreline facing both Lagonoy Gulf and Albay Gulf. The draw is Cagraray Island (locally called ibong, meaning "the other side"), which holds white sand beaches and Misibis Bay resort.

  Atlas entry

• Baclayon

  Baclayon is a charming historic town on Bohol, founded in 1595 by Spanish Jesuits. It features the well-preserved Baclayon Church of the Immaculate Conception, over 67 ancestral houses, and serves as a gateway to Pamilacan Island for dolphin and whale watching.

  Atlas entry

• Bacolod

  Bacolod combines a festival identity with Negros food and heritage. Museums and older civic buildings add cultural stops around the city.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Feb–Apr

• Bacolor

  Bacolor offers a rare glimpse into disaster and resilience: Spanish colonial churches half-swallowed by lahar from Mount Pinatubo's 1991 eruption stand as somber yet compelling memorials. The town served as Pampanga's capital since 1755 and even briefly held the Spanish colonial government during the British occupation of Manila from 1762 to 1765.

  Atlas entry

• Bacoor

  Bacoor is a large suburban city just south of Metro Manila, serving as the gateway to Cavite. It offers a glimpse into Philippine history with sites like the Zapote Bridge, where key battles occurred, and the Cuenca Ancestral House, which housed the first revolutionary government.

  Atlas entry

• Baguio

  Baguio is a cool upland city with markets and access to the Cordillera. Parks and nearby farming areas offer outings between longer mountain journeys.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Nov–Apr

• Bais

  Bais City is one of the cleanest and safest cities in the Philippines, offering a quieter alternative to larger Negros Oriental destinations. The main tourist draw is whale and dolphin watching in the Tañon Strait between Bais and Cebu.

  Atlas entry

• Balanga, Bataan

  Balanga is the provincial capital and only city in Bataan, offering a slower-paced alternative to Manila while serving as the gateway to the province's WWII historical sites. The city has a large town feel with Spanish colonial roots dating to 1739, making it ideal for travelers interested in Philippine history beyond the capital.

  Atlas entry

• Baler

  Baler is a small town on the east coast of Luzon, situated between the Sierra Madre mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Founded by Franciscan missionaries in 1609, it was the last Spanish holdout in the Philippines.

  Atlas entry

• Banaue

  Banaue is an Ifugao cultural base in the Cordillera mountains. Terrace walks and nearby villages form the main experience around town.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$44

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Bantayan

  Bantayan is a laid-back island with beaches clustered around Santa Fe. A cave and smaller offshore spots add excursions beyond the main settlements.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$44

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Baras

  Baras is a small historic town in Rizal province established by Franciscan missionaries at the end of the 16th century. It holds significance as the birthplace of Sikaran, a native Filipino martial art that originated among farmers in the village of Bara.

  Atlas entry

• Basco

  Basco is the provincial capital of Batanes, the smallest and northernmost province in the Philippines. The town sits on Batan Island amid rolling green hills, dramatic coastlines, and traditional Ivatan stone houses.

  Atlas entry

• Batac

  Batac is a lean but historically loaded city in Ilocos Norte — birthplace of the Aglipayan church, hometown of revolutionary general Artemio Ricarte, and the seat of Marcos family legacy. The 2007 cityhood makes it relatively young as cities go, but its roots run to 1587 Augustinian founding.

  Atlas entry

• Batad

  Batad is perhaps the finest village for experiencing the Ifugao Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved into the Cordillera mountains over 2,000 years ago. With fewer than 1,500 inhabitants and no motorized vehicles, the village offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Ifugao life where rice cultivation remains central to culture.

  Atlas entry

• Batan

  Batan is a municipality of 32,000 people (2015) in Aklan province, Philippines. The town offers a quieter alternative to Boracay with access to Tinago Lake's 'hidden sea' spanning 8 km by 4 km, diving opportunities at Ob-Ob Hill's underwater caves, and historical sites including the Kalantiaw Shrine Marker.

  Atlas entry

• Batangas City

  Batangas City is a working port with a small collection of heritage sites. Its churches and museums make a short stop before ferries or coastal trips.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Baybay

  Baybay is a city on the western coast of Leyte province, serving as an industry and business hub for the region. The main draw is the Visayas State University campus, formerly Visayas State College of Agriculture, which features sprawling grounds that attract visitors.

  Atlas entry

• Bayombong

  Bayombong is the provincial capital of Nueva Vizcaya and one of two main university towns in the province. Founded in the 18th century, it preserves Baroque church architecture and serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bayombong.

  Atlas entry

• Biñan

  Biñan is a heritage city in Laguna province where the Philippines' national hero, Jose Rizal, received his first formal education between 1869 and 1871. Unlike many Philippine cities, Biñan has preserved a sizeable number of colonial-era buildings in its legally designated heritage zone, making it a rewarding day trip from Manila for history enthusiasts.

  Atlas entry

• Binangonan

  Binangonan sits at the boundary between Metro Manila's urban conurbation and the rural towns of eastern Rizal province. The town offers hillside resorts, heritage churches, and hiking opportunities—particularly on Talim Island, which it shares with Cardona.

  Atlas entry

• Binmaley

  Binmaley is the seafood capital of Pangasinan, renowned for its bangus (milkfish) aquaculture from extensive fishponds. The town offers a glimpse into Philippine coastal life with beachfront dining along the baywalk, fresh seafood at reasonable prices, and access to the Binmaley Museum and Our Lady of Purification Parish Church.

  Atlas entry

• Bislig

  Bislig serves as a gateway to some of Mindanao's most striking natural attractions, including the Enchanted River and Tinuy-an Falls. The city itself is modest, offering budget inns and pension houses for travelers passing through Surigao del Sur.

  Atlas entry

• Bolinao

  Bolinao is a quiet coastal municipality in Pangasinan province, roughly 375 km northwest of Manila, offering a slower pace than major tourist destinations. The area is known for Patar White Sand Beach, Bolinao Falls with emerald swimming pools, and cave attractions like Enchanted Cave and Cindys Cave.

  Atlas entry

• Bongao

  Bongao is the administrative capital of Tawi-Tawi, the Philippines' southernmost province, where the Sulu Sea meets the Celebes Sea. It serves as the main transit hub for travelers heading to the famed Turtle Islands, coral diving sites, and pristine beaches of the Sulu Archipelago.

  Atlas entry

• Bontoc

  Bontoc is the main hub for exploring the northern Luzon Cordilleras, serving as the gateway to iconic destinations like Banaue and Sagada. This small mountain town offers direct access to Kalinga tribal villages where you can witness traditional Whang Od tattoos and remote communities unreachable by major roads.

  Atlas entry

• Boracay

  Boracay centres on long sandy beaches, nightlife and water sports. White Beach's different stations and the quieter outer shores offer contrasting bases.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$57

  Best months

  Nov–Apr

• Borongan

  Borongan earns its nickname "City of the Golden Sunrise" as sunlight reflects off the Pacific waters, creating dramatic morning displays. Unlike crowded Siargao or Baler, this Eastern Samar capital offers uncrowded surfing at Baybay Boulevard and access to hidden natural wonders—secluded beaches, waterfalls, and caves—without tourist crowds.

  Atlas entry

• Burgos, Pangasinan

  Burgos is a small municipality of 24,000 people in western Pangasinan, holding the westernmost point of Luzon. It draws visitors to undeveloped white-sand beaches, tidal pools, and hidden waterfalls away from busier Philippine destinations.

  Atlas entry

• Buruanga

  Buruanga is a small municipality in Aklan province that serves as the former mother town of Boracay. It offers mangrove forests, dramatic rock formations, and secluded beaches away from tourist crowds.

  Atlas entry

• Busuanga Island

  Busuanga is the largest island in the Calamian archipelago and the closest point in Palawan to Manila. The island draws divers worldwide to its exceptional World War II Japanese shipwrecks that lie in shallow, accessible waters.

  Atlas entry

• Butuan

  Butuan spreads along the Agusan River and is known for its history and festivals. Local museums and excursions toward Mount Mayapay give visitors a mix of cultural and outdoor stops.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$40

  Best months

  Year-round

• Cabagan

  Cabagan is the oldest surviving municipality in Isabela province, established by the Spanish in 1646 and later moved to its present site in 1877. The town is a bastion of the Ibanag language unlike the rest of Isabela, and is nationally known for its eponymous pancit Cabagan noodles featuring soy sauce, fried pork belly, and shallots.

  Atlas entry

• Cabanatuan

  Cabanatuan serves as a key transit hub between Manila and northern Luzon destinations like Baler and the Cagayan Valley. The city holds significant Philippine history — it briefly served as capital of the Philippines after Manila fell to Americans, and was the site of the largest WWII military operation on the Pacific theater, remembered in the film The Great Raid.

  Atlas entry

• Cabuyao

  Cabuyao is a manufacturing and industrial center in Laguna province, Philippines, covering the southern banks of Laguna de Bay. The city hosts Nestlé, Asian Brewery, and San Miguel Brewery factories alongside major industrial parks.

  Atlas entry

• Cagayan de Oro

  Cagayan de Oro (CDO) is the regional center of Northern Mindanao, offering a mix of urban amenities and natural attractions. It's a safer gateway to Mindanao with easy access to whitewater rafting, caves, and nearby islands.

  Atlas entry

• Cainta

  Cainta serves as the gateway to Rizal province, positioned just 16 km east of Manila along Ortigas Extension, Marcos Highway, and Sumulong Highway. The town carries a unique culinary legacy from British Indian Sepoy soldiers who intermarried with locals during the 1762-1763 British occupation, leaving behind distinctive spicy and highly seasoned dishes that define local cuisine today.

  Atlas entry

• Calabanga

  Calabanga is a prosperous municipality in Camarines Sur province, serving as a major supplier of fish and agricultural products to the region and Manila. The town offers natural attractions including Harubay Falls, clear rivers, and small offshore islands perfect for day trips.

  Atlas entry

• Calamba

  Calamba is the birthplace of the Philippines' National Hero Jose Rizal, offering colonial-era heritage sites including his restored mansion-museum and the church where he was baptized. The Pansol barangay hosts numerous private hot spring resorts at the foot of Mount Makiling, making it a popular weekend escape from Manila.

  Atlas entry

• Calapan

  Calapan is the provincial capital and largest city of Oriental Mindoro, serving primarily as a transport gateway rather than a destination itself. The city functions as the main hub connecting Mindoro Island to Luzon via ferries to Batangas, making it the essential transit point for travelers heading to Puerto Galera's beaches and dive sites.

  Atlas entry

• Calasiao

  Calasiao is a municipality of 100,000 people in Pangasinan province, known as the "white gold" capital of the Philippines for its famous puto rice cakes. The town has rich farmlands planted with rice, coconuts, and mangoes, plus fishponds raising bangus (milkfish), pantat (catfish), and tilapia.

  Atlas entry

• Calbayog

  Calbayog is one of the largest cities in the Philippines by land area, with most of the city sitting on the coast and the rest being sea and rainforest. It is a commercial center of Samar Province and has an airport and seaport.

  Atlas entry

• Caloocan

  Caloocan is a large suburb of Manila, predominantly residential and home to many relocated from Manila's slums. It has a noticeable lack of tourist attractions but serves as a transit hub with LRT stations and bus terminals connecting to nearby cities.

  Atlas entry

• Camalig

  Camalig is a heritage town beneath Mayon with old houses and nearby caves. Lake reflections and wartime sites add interest to the volcano views.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Dec–May

• Camiguin

  Camiguin is a small island province off the northern coast of Mindanao in the Philippines. It is definitely off the beaten track for travelers, but it is a real gem with volcanic landscapes, hot springs, waterfalls, and white-sand beaches.

  Atlas entry

• Camotes Islands

  The Camotes Islands are a small group east of Cebu Island (63 km from Cebu City) but closer to Leyte, making them an accessible escape from the busier Cebu City. The islands offer fine sandy beaches, dive sites, limestone caves, and Lake Danao, with a laid-back atmosphere that attracts both local Filipino tourists and resident foreigners.

  Atlas entry

• Capas

  Capas is the self-proclaimed "Tourism Capital of Tarlac", offering a compelling mix of WWII history and natural adventures. As the endpoint of the infamous Death March, it holds profound historical significance for visitors interested in Philippine wartime heritage.

  Atlas entry

• Carcar

  Carcar is a heritage town with well-preserved colonial architecture from the Spanish era, including Bahay-na-bato houses and a grand parish church. It is known for its local chicharon (crispy pork rinds) and serves as a slower alternative to busy Cebu City for travelers interested in Philippine colonial history and architecture.

  Atlas entry

• Carigara

  Carigara is a small municipality of 55,000 people (2020) in the northern Leyte province, sitting on the shores of Carigara Bay. It is surrounded by wide rice fields fanning out towards distant mountains, offering a glimpse into provincial Philippine life away from tourist hotspots.

  Atlas entry

• Carmen, Bohol

  Carmen is the main staging point for the Chocolate Hills, Bohol's most iconic geological formation. Unlike day-trippers rushing from Tagbilaran, staying overnight lets you catch the hills in golden morning light and explore at a leisurely pace.

  Atlas entry

• Catbalogan

  Catbalogan is a coastal base for Samar with a strong fishing identity. Memorials, a seasonal festival and nearby natural sites offer reasons to stop.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$40

  Best months

  Dec–May

• Cavite City

  Cavite City preserves Spanish colonial heritage uncommon elsewhere in the Philippines, including the 17th-century Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Solitude and ruins of Fort San Felipe from 1609. The city is one of the few places where Chavacano, a Spanish creole, remains the lingua franca of daily life.

  Atlas entry

• Cebu City

  Cebu City combines Spanish-era monuments with busy commercial streets. Explore the heritage core, then head to a hill viewpoint or the high attractions at Crown Regency.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Consolacion, Cebu

  Consolacion is a suburban municipality in Metro Cebu, Philippines, located just north of Mandaue City. It serves primarily as a residential and commercial area within the greater Cebu metropolitan region rather than a standalone tourist destination.

  Atlas entry

• Córdova, Cebu

  Córdova is a small municipality of around 60,000 on Mactan Island's southern tip, part of Metro Cebu. Like its northern neighbor Lapu-Lapu, it is well provided with beach and diving resorts—the main tourist draws.

  Atlas entry

• Coron

  Coron is a base for wreck diving and limestone-framed island trips. Lakes and sheltered bays offer options for both divers and snorkellers.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$64

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Corregidor Island

  Corregidor Island is a historic WWII destination at the entrance of Manila Bay, approximately 48 km west of Manila. Known as 'The Rock' due to its rocky landscape and massive fortifications of Fort Mills, the island served as the nerve center of Philippine and American military defenses.

  Atlas entry

• Cuenca, Batangas

  Cuenca is a small town on the southern shore of Taal Lake, serving primarily as the gateway to Mount Maculot. The dormant stratovolcano offers hikers panoramic views of Taal Lake and its famous crater volcano.

  Atlas entry

• Culion Island

  Culion Island offers a rare backwater atmosphere that contrasts sharply with busier Coron nearby. The former 20th-century leper colony remains mostly off the beaten track, delivering tranquility and an authenticity that harder-to-reach destinations often lose.

  Atlas entry

• Cuyo Islands

  The Cuyo Islands offer a rare escape from Palawan's busier tourist hubs. This archipelago of 45 islands in the Sulu Sea remains largely undeveloped, with about 46,000 residents across the entire 130 km² area.

  Atlas entry

• Daet

  Daet is the provincial capital of Camarines Norte with a population of 112,000 people (2020). It is known for Bagasbas Beach, a popular surfing destination with consistent waves, and historic colonial-era churches built by Franciscan friars in 1611.

  Atlas entry

• Dagupan

  Dagupan is a working city shaped by milkfish farming. Markets and seasonal celebrations reveal that food economy, with beaches nearby on Lingayen Gulf.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$40

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Danao

  Danao is a small coastal town at the northern end of Metro Cebu, primarily known as the departure point for ferries to the Camotes Islands. The town itself offers modest attractions including Costanera Beach, a historic coral-built church from 1755, and Mount Manghilaw with a large cross near the summit for trekking.

  Atlas entry

• Dapitan

  Dapitan is the Shrine City of the Philippines, best known as the place where national hero Jose Rizal was exiled from 1892 to 1896. The city preserves his estate, memorial park, and the exact landing spot where he arrived.

  Atlas entry

• Daraga

  Daraga is a landlocked municipality in Albay province, flanked by Legazpi and Camalig. It serves as the gateway to the iconic Cagsawa Ruins and hosts the Bicol International Airport.

  Atlas entry

• Dasmariñas

  Dasmariñas (locally called Dasma) is primarily a transit point rather than a destination in itself. The city sits at the crossroads of two major highways—Aguinaldo Highway and Governor's Drive—making it a common waypoint between Manila and Tagaytay.

  Atlas entry

• Dasol

  Dasol is a quiet coastal municipality in Pangasinan Province, Philippines, known for its white sand beaches and serene atmosphere. The area offers beachcombing, island hopping to spots like Culebra Island, and visits to geological features like the Death Pool and Cabongaoan Beach sinkholes.

  Atlas entry

• Dauin

  Dauin is a small seaside municipality of about 25,000 residents south of Dumaguete, primarily known for its scuba diving and snorkeling. The town has developed into a diving resort destination with numerous dive shops and resorts catering to underwater enthusiasts.

  Atlas entry

• Dipolog

  Dipolog is a regional gateway with a strong sardine-processing identity. Hill walks and waterfalls offer outdoor excursions beyond the city streets.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$40

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Donsol

  Donsol is a small rural municipality in Sorsogon province known for its whale shark (butanding) interactions, making it one of the few places in the world where you can swim with these gentle giants. The town has a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere with basic infrastructure catering mainly to eco-tourists.

  Atlas entry

• Dumaguete

  Dumaguete is a university town with a lively seafront boulevard. Nearby island diving and dolphin trips make it a useful base for exploring Negros Oriental.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$43

  Best months

  Jan–May

• El Nido

  El Nido is a base for exploring Bacuit Bay's limestone islands. Boat trips and beach excursions dominate visits, with kayaking and climbing adding variety.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$64

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Gasan

  Gasan is a town of 33,000 people in Marinduque province, often called the cultural capital of Marinduque. It serves as a gateway to the Tres Reyes Islands with their white sand beaches and diving opportunities, while offering local attractions like centuries-old churches, forest caves, and unique wooden suspension bridges.

  Atlas entry

• General Santos

  General Santos is a coastal city known as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, offering fresh seafood, vibrant festivals, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's the hometown of boxer Manny Pacquiao and provides easy access to beaches, diving spots, and mountains, all at budget-friendly prices.

  Atlas entry

• Gingoog

  Gingoog is known as the vacation city of Misamis Oriental. It offers beautiful places to visit and hospitable people.

  Atlas entry

• Guagua

  Guagua is one of the oldest municipalities in Pampanga, established in the 1590s. The town is renowned for the woodcarving traditions and intricately painted interior of the Betis Church, often compared to the Sistine Chapel.

  Atlas entry

• Guimaras

  Guimaras is a quiet island known for mangoes and smaller beach settlements. Heritage houses and coastal walks add interest beyond the orchards.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$42

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Guinobatan

  Guinobodyan offers a taste of authentic Bicolano culture away from tourist crowds. The town is famous for its Longganisa Festival celebrating the local chorizo, and serves as one of five municipalities sharing jurisdiction over Mayon Volcano's foothills.

  Atlas entry

• Guiuan

  Guiuan holds the distinction of being the first place in the Philippines where Europeans landed, when Magellan's expedition arrived in March 1521. Today it is a quiet coastal municipality offering surfing at Calicoan Beach (declared the surfing capital of the Visayas by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2001), 400-year-old Spanish colonial churches, and remote islands for diving and relaxation.

  Atlas entry

• Ibajay

  Ibajay is a quiet coastal municipality in Aklan province, offering a contrast to the tourist intensity of nearby Boracay. The town is best known for the Katunggan it Ibajay mangrove park, one of the most concentrated mangrove ecosystems in the Philippines, and for its traditional Ati-Ati Festival celebrating indigenous heritage.

  Atlas entry

• Ilagan

  Ilagan is the capital of Isabela province and one of the largest cities in the Philippines by land area, yet it retains a small-town atmosphere. The city serves as a convenient transit stop along the Pan-Philippine Highway between Tuguegarao and Santiago City.

  Atlas entry

• Iligan

  Iligan earns its moniker "City of Majestic Waterfalls" with over 20 waterfalls and a dozen springs within 30 km. The city sits outside the typhoon belt on limestone-rich terrain, making it a reliable nature destination year-round.

  Atlas entry

• Iloilo City

  Iloilo City combines historic streets, churches and Ilonggo food traditions. Walk around Calle Real and the river esplanade, then sample La Paz Batchoy or Pancit Molo.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Dec–Mar

• Imus

  Imus is a historic city in Cavite that holds significant importance in Philippine history as the site of the Battle of Alapan, where the Philippine flag was first raised during the 1898 revolution. While largely transformed into suburban sprawl since the 1980s, it preserves some colonial-era structures including the Imus Cathedral and Isabel II Bridge.

  Atlas entry

• Indang

  Indang is an inland municipality in southern Cavite, offering a quiet counterpoint to the busier Tagaytay corridor. Its main draw is historical significance as the hiding spot of Andres Bonifacio during the Philippine Revolution of 1897, plus a notable Spanish-era parish church dating to 1625.

  Atlas entry

• Ipil

  Ipil is the capital of Zamboanga Sibugay province, serving as a regional transit hub rather than a destination in itself. The town offers basic amenities including markets, restaurants, and budget accommodation for travelers passing through the Zamboanga Peninsula.

  Atlas entry

• Iriga

  Iriga is a small provincial city serving as the administrative center of the Rinconada District in Camarines Sur. Its main appeal lies in Mount Iriga, an extinct volcano that dominates the skyline and offers hiking opportunities, plus religious sites like the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes on Calvario Hill.

  Atlas entry

• Jagna

  Jagna is a small port town of 34,000 people on Bohol's south coast. The main reasons to visit are catching a ferry or using it as a transfer point on a land journey between the resorts in Anda and the provincial capital Tagbilaran.

  Atlas entry

• Jovellar

  Jovellar is a small landlocked municipality in the southwest quadrant of Albay province, Philippines. Once called Quipia after the river that flows down to Donsol, the town offers cave adventures, waterfalls, and the annual Quipia Festival.

  Atlas entry

• Kabankalan

  Kabankalan is a mid-sized city in southern Negros Occidental serving as a regional center and transit hub for travelers heading to beaches and nature sites further south. The city itself offers practical amenities including malls, banks, and local restaurants, while nearby attractions include limestone caves, waterfalls, and mountain resorts.

  Atlas entry

• Kalibo

  Kalibo is both a transit gateway and a centre of Aklanon culture. Stay for its festival traditions, piña weaving and restored mangrove boardwalks.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$40

  Best months

  Dec–May

• Kawit

  Kawit is a historically significant municipality in Cavite, Philippines, known primarily as the birthplace of Emilio Aguinaldo, the nation's first president. Formerly called Cavite el Viejo, it holds national importance as the site where Philippine independence from Spain was declared on June 12, 1898.

  Atlas entry

• Koronadal

  Koronadal, also called Marbel, is a medium-sized provincial capital in South Cotabato that serves as the commercial and transport hub for the Soccsksargen region. The city itself is a working Philippine urban center rather than a destination in its own right, but it functions as a practical gateway for travelers heading to Mount Parker, Lake Sebu's t'boli villages, and the diving sites of Sarangani Bay.

  Atlas entry

• La Trinidad, Benguet

  La Trinidad is a small agricultural town that serves as the capital of Benguet province, best known for its strawberry farms and the annual La Trinidad Strawberry Festival held between February and March. The town is a popular detour destination for tourists visiting nearby Baguio, offering strawberry-picking experiences at the 20-hectare Benguet State University farm in Betag.

  Atlas entry

• Lake Sebu

  Lake Sebu offers a rare glimpse into indigenous Lumad culture in an unspoiled rainforest setting. The town sits beside the eponymous lake in the Allah Valley, a UNESCO-recognized cultural landscape, providing backpackers with an authentic alternative to Philippines beach destinations.

  Atlas entry

• Laoag

  Laoag offers Spanish-era landmarks and access to the dunes of Ilocos Norte. Its cathedral and unusual memorials reward a city walk before coastal excursions.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Lapu-Lapu

  Lapu-Lapu is an island city combining airport access with beach and diving areas. Nearby sanctuaries and historical monuments offer outings beyond the resorts.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$44

  Best months

  Year-round

• Las Piñas

  Las Piñas is a suburban city in southern Metro Manila, offering a quieter alternative to central Manila for travelers interested in heritage sites. The city is most famous for the St.

  Atlas entry

• Legazpi

  Legazpi is a Bicol base beneath Mayon Volcano, with coastal viewpoints and black-sand beaches nearby. Explore the waterfront and hills, then try regional dishes known for their use of chilli.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$56

  Best months

  Feb–Apr

• Lemery

  Atlas entry

• Ligao

  Ligao is an agricultural city in the foothills of Mayon. Local snacks and woven crafts add character to a stop along the Bicol corridor.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$40

  Best months

  Dec–May

• Liliw

  Liliw is one of the oldest towns in Laguna, predating the Spanish conquest and reorganized as Lilio in 1578. Today it charms visitors with its baroque red-façade St.

  Atlas entry

• Liloan, Metro Cebu

  Liloan is a spread-out suburban area in Cebu Province, Philippines, located on the coast north of Cebu City. It serves as a quieter alternative to the urban core, offering coastal access and proximity to nearby destinations like Mandaue and Danao.

  Atlas entry

• Lingayen

  Lingayen serves as the provincial capital of Pangasinan and offers a quieter alternative to larger Philippine destinations. The town is famous for its long, wide beach along the West Philippine Sea and hosts the annual Bagoong Festival celebrating the region's famed fermented shrimp paste, as well as Pista'y Dayat beach festival.

  Atlas entry

• Lipa

  Lipa is the economic and religious heart of Batangas province, often called the "Rome of the Philippines" for its historic cathedral, seminaries, and Catholic heritage. The city is famous for kapeng barako coffee, once a major export that has regained popularity among local coffee enthusiasts.

  Atlas entry

• Loboc

  Loboc is a river town with a historic church and a visitor circuit centred on the water. Riverside performances and high adventure rides offer contrasting outings.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$44

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Los Baños

  Los Baños ("the baths" in Spanish) is a resort town built around therapeutic thermal hot springs at the foot of Mount Makiling, a dormant volcano. The town is also home to the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), established in 1909, creating a unique blend of academic community and resort amenities.

  Atlas entry

• Lubao

  Lubao is one of the oldest municipalities in Pampanga, established in the 1570s, making it a historically significant stop in Central Luzon. The town is best known as the birthplace of the Macapagal dynasty, producing two Philippine presidents: Diosdado Macapagal and his daughter Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

  Atlas entry

• Lucban

  Lucban is a small agricultural town in Quezon province famous for the Pahiyas Festival, when houses are decorated with colorful rice creations and agricultural products. The town sits at the foot of Mount Banahaw, a sacred mountain for many Filipinos, making it a base for pilgrimage treks and nature excursions.

  Atlas entry

• Lucena

  Lucena is the administrative capital and economic hub of Quezon Province, serving as a crucial stopover on the Maharlika Highway between Manila and Bicol. The city offers Spanish colonial heritage including the Neoclassical Quezon Provincial Capitol (National Historical Site) and the 1882 Saint Ferdinand Cathedral.

  Atlas entry

• Mabinay

  Mabinay is a small inland municipality in central Negros Island known for its extraordinary cave systems—locals claim hundreds exist, though the exact locations remain closely guarded secrets. The town has developed a modest tourism industry around cave exploration, river kayaking on the Ilog River, and a natural spring pool.

  Atlas entry

• Mabini

  Mabini and its diving hub Anilao sit on the Calumpan Peninsula overlooking Balayan and Batangas Bays. Known as the birthplace of Philippine scuba diving, it offers accessible reef sites without the crowds of Boracay or Puerto Galera.

  Atlas entry

• Makati

  Makati combines major shopping centres with parks and cultural institutions. Museum visits and weekend markets offer pauses between its busy commercial districts.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$45

  Best months

  Nov–May

• Malapascua

  Malapascua is a small island known for specialist shark diving. White beaches and a compact settlement make it easy to explore between boat trips.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$59

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Malaybalay

  Malaybalay City is the provincial capital of Bukidnon Province on Mindanao Island, situated at about 2034ft elevation on a wide plateau surrounded by mountains. The climate is mild and refreshing without requiring cooling facilities, offering guaranteed restful sleep.

  Atlas entry

• Malilipot

  Malilipot is a small coastal municipality in Albay province sandwiched between Tabaco City and Bacacay along the Legazpi-Tiwi coastal road. The town is one of five municipalities sharing jurisdiction over Mayon Volcano's foothills, offering views of the iconic perfect cone without being directly in eruption danger zones.

  Atlas entry

• Malinao

  Malinao is a quiet, laidback municipality in Albay offering a glimpse of pre-colonial and Spanish-era history. Its main draw is Vera Falls, a waterfall perfect for a half-day excursion with white water rafting opportunities nearby.

  Atlas entry

• Malolos

  Malolos is the capital of Bulacan province and holds a unique place in Philippine history as the site where Asia's first constitutional republic was established in 1899. The city retains a remarkable collection of colonial-era houses in the Pariancillo District (also called Camestisuhan), declared a Heritage Town in 2001, making it one of the few places in the Philippines where Spanish colonial architecture survived the destruction of World War II.

  Atlas entry

• Malvar

  Malvar offers a quiet respite from Manila's chaos, sitting in the agricultural heartland of Batangas province. The town is named after General Miguel Malvar, a Filipino revolutionary hero, and serves as a convenient stop for those exploring the Taal Volcano area or traveling between Manila and Batangas City.

  Atlas entry

• Mandaluyong

  Mandaluyong is a commercial city in Metro Manila that serves as a shopping destination rather than a tourist spot. It lacks the historical sites of neighboring Manila but offers major malls like SM Megamall and Shangri-La Plaza along EDSA.

  Atlas entry

• Mandaue

  Mandaue is the least glamorous and least touristed of the three cities in Metro Cebu, yet it has nearly 365,000 residents and all the services of a medium-sized city. It serves primarily as a transit hub connecting Cebu City and Lapu-Lapu (where the airport is located), with lower housing costs attracting some resident foreigners.

  Atlas entry

• Manila

  Manila combines Spanish-era streets with Chinese trading traditions and modern urban life. Museums, local food and the walled core offer many cultural stops.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$42

  Best months

  Nov–Apr

• Manito

  Manito is a remote municipality in Albay province that remains off the typical tourist radar. The main draw is Nag-aso Boiling Lake, a steaming volcanic crater lake nestled in the Pocdol Mountains, which can be trekked in a day from the town proper.

  Atlas entry

• Marawi

  Marawi is a predominantly Muslim city on the shores of Lake Lanao, the largest lake in Mindanao and one of the 15 ancient lakes in the world. The city showcases Maranao culture through its Torogan royal houses and Islamic architecture.

  Atlas entry

• Marikina

  Marikina City is the Philippines' shoe capital, home to the world's largest pairs of shoes and over 400 sho factories. The city blends industrial heritage with accessible urban attractions: a Shoe Museum displaying Imelda Marcos's 1,500-pair collection, riverfront parks, and the food stalls of Lilac Street.

  Atlas entry

• Marilao

  Marilao is a municipality in Bulacan forming a large suburban area north of Metro Manila alongside nearby Meycauayan. It serves as a practical stop for travelers passing through the Manila-Clark corridor, offering SM City Marilao for shopping and two historic churches.

  Atlas entry

• Marinduque

  Marinduque is the heart-shaped island province in the Philippines often called the "Heart of the Philippines." It remains largely undiscovered by international tourists, offering pristine beaches like White Beach in Poctoy, Torrijos, and the Tres Reyes Islands with their empty beaches and clear azure waters. The island is most famous for the Moriones Festival, held during Holy Week, considered the most colorful festival in the Philippines, featuring participants in elaborate Roman soldier costumes re-enacting the story of Longinus.

  Atlas entry

• Masbate City

  Masbate City is the provincial capital of Masbate, a major transportation hub connecting the Bicol Peninsula to the Visayas islands. The city offers a genuinely local Philippine experience without heavy tourism—visitors can watch the famous Rodeo Masbateño, snorkel at Buntod Sandbar, or explore colonial-era churches.

  Atlas entry

• Mayon

  Mayon is an active stratovolcano with a near‑perfect cone that has become an iconic symbol of the Bicol region and the Philippines. Its slopes are woven into local legend as the home of the ancient chief deity Gugurang and the tomb of the maiden Daragang Magayon.

  Atlas entry

• Meycauayan

  Meycauayan is an industrialized city in Bulacan, founded in 1578, making it one of the oldest towns in the province. Its name translates to 'a place with lots of bamboo,' which can still be seen in the partly-rural northeastern barangays.

  Atlas entry

• Minglanilla

  Minglanilla serves as a quick stop for travelers heading south along Cebu Island's coastal highway. The Archdiocesan Immaculate Heart of Mary church is one of the oldest in Cebu, making it a brief cultural break.

  Atlas entry

• Moalboal

  Moalboal draws divers to the reef off Panagsama Beach. Inland trips reach Kawasan's cascades and the mountain viewpoints around Osmeña Peak.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$44

  Best months

  Nov–May

• Morong

  Morong is a small lakeside municipality at the top of Morong Peninsula, sharing its name with the former designation of the entire province of Rizal. It serves as the educational center of Rizal province and holds several heritage structures from the Spanish and American colonial periods.

  Atlas entry

• Muntinlupa

  Muntinlupa combines business districts with lesser-known sites around Laguna de Bay. Small museums and lakeside walks offer alternatives to its commercial centres.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$40

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Naga

  Naga is a Bicol cultural and pilgrimage centre near Mount Isarog. Rainforest pools and waterfall trails offer outdoor excursions close to the city.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Nov–Apr

• Nagcarlan

  Nagcarlan is one of the oldest towns in Laguna province, predating Spanish colonization and holding a unique place in Philippine history as the first place where wheat was grown in the country. It offers a quieter alternative to neighboring Liliw, with fewer tourists but comparable attractions including colonial architecture and natural cold springs.

  Atlas entry

• Nasugbu

  Nasugbu is a coastal municipality in western Batangas facing the South China Sea, known for its luxury beach resorts and emerging tourism infrastructure. The town serves as a gateway to Fortune Island with its iconic Grecian ruins, Mount Batulao for beginner hikers, and ferries to the off-the-beaten-path Lubang Islands.

  Atlas entry

• New Washington

  New Washington is a small municipality in Aklan province that serves as a historical gateway to Kalibo and Boracay. Its main appeal lies in its proximity to the Lagantik River, local resorts, and the Isla Kapispisan Mangrove Reforestation Eco-tourism Project.

  Atlas entry

• Noveleta

  Noveleta is a historically significant small town in Cavite that served as the seat of the Magdiwang faction of the Katipunan during the 1897 split in the Philippine Revolution. Visitors interested in revolutionary history will find the Noveleta Tribunal, Battle of Noveleta historical marker, and statues of Emilio Aguinaldo in the town plaza.

  Atlas entry

• Oas

  Oas is a modest coastal municipality on the Bicol Peninsula, offering a glimpse of Spanish colonial history through its 17th-century church and access to Trinity Islands for island hopping. Its quiet atmosphere provides a break from larger Albay destinations like Legazpi.

  Atlas entry

• Olango Island

  Olango Island is a wetland sanctuary known for migratory birds and a government-protected reef, offering snorkeling, diving, and quiet beaches just a 20-minute ferry ride from Cebu's Mactan Island. The island feels distinctly rural despite being part of Metro Cebu, with nipa huts, mangrove swamps, and roaming livestock.

  Atlas entry

• Olongapo

  Olongapo serves as the main urban hub for Zambia's northern coast and the gateway to Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The city offers budget accommodation starting from ₱500 per night and local restaurants with meals under ₱150.

  Atlas entry

• Ormoc

  Ormoc is a city on the west side of Leyte Island, serving as a major port and gateway to the island's interior attractions. The city is famous for its sweet Queen Pineapple, geothermal wonders at Tongonan Hotsprings, and access to mountain lakes and waterfalls in the surrounding countryside.

  Atlas entry

• Oslob

  Oslob is a fishing town known for whale-shark tourism. Tumalog Falls and Sumilon add nearby landscape excursions beyond the viewing area.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$47

  Best months

  Dec–May

• Ozamiz

  Ozamiz is known as the Gem of Panguil Bay and the Gateway to Northwestern Mindanao. The city serves as a principal outlet for agricultural, mineral, and forest products from surrounding provinces including Misamis Occidental, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and parts of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur.

  Atlas entry

• Pagsanjan

  Pagsanjan is a heritage town in Laguna province that draws visitors primarily for the jungle river trip to Pagsanjan Falls—shooting rapids in a dugout canoe through a deep canyon. Beyond the falls, the town preserves Spanish colonial architecture including the three-portal Pagsanjan Arch (a National Cultural Treasure), the restored 17th-century church housing a Mexican-donated image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and several heritage houses along J.P.

  Atlas entry

• Pagudpud

  Pagudpud is the northernmost municipality in Luzon, earning the nickname "Boracay of the North" for its white-sand beaches and emerald waters. The town sits at the boundary between Ilocos Norte and Cagayan provinces, separated topographically by the northernmost spur of the Cordillera Mountains, creating dramatic coastal scenery with cliffs, waterfalls, and sea stacks.

  Atlas entry

• Palo

  Palo is the religious and historic center of Leyte, serving as the seat of the Archdiocese of Palo. The town draws visitors to the 16th-century Palo Cathedral, which hosted Pope Francis' visit and commemorates Typhoon Haiyan victims.

  Atlas entry

• Palompon

  Palompon is a historic small town on Leyte Island, serving as the primary jumping-off point for Kalanggaman Island, famous for its stunning white sandbars stretching into crystal blue waters. The town itself preserves the oldest church in Leyte, a 1784 Roman Catholic structure built over 44 years.

  Atlas entry

• Panabo

  Panabo is a modest agricultural city renowned as one of the Philippines' largest producers of bananas and pomelos. The city offers a glimpse into Davao Region's farming heartland, with vast banana plantations visible just outside the downtown area.

  Atlas entry

• Panglao Island

  Panglao Island is a beach and diving base with facilities concentrated around Alona. Offshore sanctuaries and island excursions broaden the options beyond the main strip.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$46

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Panglao Town

  Panglao Town is a quieter, more laid-back alternative to the resort-heavy Alona Beach. It covers half of Panglao Island alongside the municipality of Dauis, offering uncrowded beaches like Momo Beach with coral reefs just a few hundred meters offshore.

  Atlas entry

• Parañaque

  Parañaque combines major shrines and historical memorials with a dense metropolitan setting. A protected coastal habitat offers a quieter contrast to its commercial districts.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$49

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Pasay

  Pasay is a transport and shopping hub beside Manila Bay. Its waterfront entertainment, museums and performance venues give visitors reasons to pause between journeys.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$44

  Best months

  Nov–Apr

• Pasig

  Pasig is a major city in eastern Metro Manila, best known for the Ortigas Center—one of the Philippines' premier business districts. The city offers a mix of old Filipino charm in its downtown core and modern commercial sophistication in its business areas.

  Atlas entry

• Passi

  Passi is a modest city of 80,000 on central Panay Island, founded in 1766 and now the second city in Iloilo province. It retains a small-town vibe despite city status (attained in 1998), making it a quiet stop between Iloilo City and Roxas City.

  Atlas entry

• Pili

  Pili is the provincial capital of Camarines Sur, strategically located south of Naga City. The town straddles two major Bikol language varieties—Central Bikol and Rinconada—giving it a distinct cultural character.

  Atlas entry

• Pio Duran

  Pio Duran is a small coastal municipality in southwest Albay, offering a quieter alternative to busy Legazpi. Its main appeal is the natural hot springs resort, panoramic viewpoints including views of Mayon Volcano, and a working port connecting to Masbate province.

  Atlas entry

• Polangui

  Polangui is a landlocked municipality in Albay province, strategically situated in the northwest quadrant and serving as a gateway via Asian Highway 26. The town borders Libon and Rinconada District of Camarines Sur.

  Atlas entry

• Port Barton

  Port Barton is a coastal village on the edge of rainforest. Island trips and a waterfall walk provide excursions beyond its relaxed beach.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$47

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Puerto Galera

  Puerto Galera is one of the most accessible tropical destinations from Manila, located on the northern coast of Mindoro Island. The area is a UNESCO-designated Man and the Biosphere Reserve, recognized for its rich marine biodiversity.

  Atlas entry

• Puerto Princesa

  Puerto Princesa is Palawan's main gateway to an underground river and coastal excursions. Historic sites and nearby nature attractions add options around the city.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$52

  Best months

  Nov–May

• Quezon City

  Quezon City (QC or Kyusi) is the largest city in the Philippines by population, with nearly 3 million residents as of 2020. It has emerged as the country's hub for information technology and its entertainment industry, making it a magnet for digital nomads and young professionals.

  Atlas entry

• Quezon Memorial Circle

  The Quezon Memorial Circle is a national park and shrine dedicated to President Manuel L. Quezon, serving as one of Quezon City's most iconic green spaces.

  Atlas entry

• Rodriguez

  Rodriguez (commonly called Montalban) sits at the northern edges of Rizal Province, hugging the foothills of the Sierra Madre. The town provides a refuge from Manila's urban sprawl while offering outdoor activities like mountain climbing, hiking, and caving.

  Atlas entry

• Roxas City

  Roxas City is the provincial capital and commercial center of Capiz, offering a slower pace than Manila or Cebu with authentic Filipino charm. The city is famous for its seafood markets and fishponds cultivating milkfish, while maintaining Spanish-era architecture.

  Atlas entry

• Roxas, Palawan

  Roxas is a working-class agricultural town on Palawan's east coast road, primarily a transit stop between Puerto Princesa and El Nido. It has little aesthetic appeal and minimal tourist infrastructure, but the locals are genuinely friendly and curious about visitors.

  Atlas entry

• Sabang, Mindoro

  Sabang is a small barangay on Mindoro's northeastern coast, part of Puerto Galera. Most visitors come specifically for the excellent scuba diving offered by the protected marine sanctuary, with around 35 dive shops in the area.

  Atlas entry

• Sagada

  Sagada combines Igorot cultural traditions with a landscape of limestone caves and mountains. Valley walks and cave routes are central to a stay.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$44

  Best months

  Nov–May

• San Carlos, Negros Occidental

  San Carlos is a moderately important port city on the east coast of Negros Occidental. It serves as a transit point for ferry connections to Cebu and a base for exploring nearby beaches.

  Atlas entry

• San Carlos, Pangasinan

  San Carlos in Pangasinan predates colonial times as a center of trade with China, Japan, and Southeast Asian principalities, particularly for mung bean production. The city offers historic Catholic churches from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, natural attractions like Manleluag Hot Spring and Mapita Falls, and access to local markets including the New Public Market.

  Atlas entry

• San Fernando, Cebu

  San Fernando is a coastal municipality in Metro Cebu with a population of about 66,000 (2015 census). It offers a more rural, country atmosphere compared to the developed areas north in Cebu City, making it a quieter stop on the coastal highway.

  Atlas entry

• San Fernando, La Union

  San Fernando is the capital of La Union province on the northwest coast of Luzon, facing the South China Sea. The city serves as a gateway to popular surf beaches in nearby San Juan, while offering its own cultural attractions including the 7-story Ma-cho Temple, Poro Point's lighthouse and baywalk, and Spanish colonial church ruins.

  Atlas entry

• San Fernando, Pampanga

  San Fernando serves as the political, administrative, religious, and cultural center of Pampanga province. The city is renowned as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines, hosting the annual Giant Lantern (Parol) Festival every December where local crafters display handmade star-shaped Christmas lanterns.

  Atlas entry

• San Jose del Monte

  San Jose del Monte (SJDM) is a sprawling resettlement city of 650,000 people in Bulacan province, founded in the 18th century but transformed in the 1980s when thousands of informal settlers from Metro Manila were relocated here. For backpackers, SJDM offers affordable access to natural attractions—Kaytitinga Falls, Mount Balagbag, and the Angat Watershed—plus Catholic pilgrimage sites, all within 30 km of Manila.

  Atlas entry

• San Jose, Camarines Sur

  San Jose is a rural municipality of 40,000 people in Camarines Sur, Philippines. The town serves as a key transit point for travelers heading to the renowned Caramoan Peninsula.

  Atlas entry

• San Jose, Mindoro

  San Jose is a quiet municipality on the southwestern tip of Occidental Mindoro offering an off-the-beaten-path alternative to crowded Philippine destinations. The town is known for its three offshore islands—Ambulong, Ilin, and White Island—with white sand beaches, cliffs, and abundant coral gardens.

  Atlas entry

• San Juan, La Union

  San Juan is the surfing capital of northern Luzon, drawing beginners and intermediate surfers with reliable swells from November through April. The town has two distinct surf districts—Urbiztondo with established resorts and a crowded beach during weekends, and Montemar offering a quieter, more affordable experience for independent surfers.

  Atlas entry

• San Juan, Metro Manila

  San Juan is a compact city chartered in 2007 that punches above its weight in historical significance—the site of the Battle of Pinaglabanan during the 1896 Philippine Revolution. Beyond its revolutionary credentials, it offers practical attractions: the sprawling Greenhills Shopping Center with over 2,000 shops, the gastronomic enclave of Little Baguio around Wilson and P.

  Atlas entry

• San Luis, Batangas

  San Luis is a small coastal municipality south of Taal in Batangas province with a population of about 36,000. Its main attraction is beaches, with several beach resorts offering diving trips to nearby reefs.

  Atlas entry

• San Pablo, Laguna

  San Pablo is a historic lakeside city of about 300,000 people in Laguna province, famous for its seven volcanic crater lakes. The city retains a surprising number of heritage buildings from the American period, particularly along Jose Rizal Avenue and the Capitol Compound, making it one of the most architecturally preserved medium-sized cities in the Philippines.

  Atlas entry

• San Pedro, Laguna

  San Pedro is a densely populated city in Laguna province serving as a major transit terminus for buses heading to Metro Manila. The city hosts the annual Sampaguita Festival celebrating the fragrant national flower, and features the Santo Sepulcro Shrine, a Roman Catholic pilgrimage site.

  Atlas entry

• San Teodoro, Mindoro

  San Teodoro is a quiet municipality in Oriental Mindoro, deliberately out of the way of Puerto Galera's bustling nightlife and commerce. The town offers access to multiple waterfalls including Tamaraw Falls on the scenic road to Puerto Galera, natural hot springs at Tabunan, and opportunities to purchase handicrafts from the local Mangyan tribe.

  Atlas entry

• Santa Cruz, Laguna

  Atlas entry

• Santa Rosa, Laguna

  Santa Rosa is a major industrial and commercial center in Laguna, nicknamed the "Lion City of the Philippines" for its economic significance. The city draws tourists primarily for Enchanted Kingdom, a fantasy-themed amusement park opened in 1995, and for its large shopping destinations like SM City Santa Rosa and Paseo Outlets.

  Atlas entry

• Santo Domingo

  Santo Domingo is a quiet Bicolano town on Albay Gulf where whale sharks seasonally congregate off the coast, drawing adventurous snorkelers and divers. The municipality shares jurisdiction over Mayon Volcano's foothills and wraps around a black-sand coastline rarely visited by international tourists.

  Atlas entry

• Siargao

  Siargao combines a strong surf identity with island excursions and inland scenery. Lagoons and caves provide options beyond the main breaks.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$47

  Best months

  Mar–Apr, Sep–Oct

• Siaton

  Siaton is a small coastal municipality at the southern tip of Negros Oriental Province, Philippines. Its main claim to fame is Tambobo Bay in the barangay of Bonbonon, which serves as the province's primary port of call for cruising yachts and one of the country's most sheltered hurricane holes.

  Atlas entry

• Sibonga

  Sibonga is a small coastal municipality in southern Cebu Province, best known for the dramatic Simala Miraculous Mama Mary church and Monastery of the Holy Eucharist. For Catholic pilgrims, especially Filipinos, this castle-like sanctuary is a major destination.

  Atlas entry

• Silang

  Silang is a rural municipality in Cavite sharing Tagaytay's cool climate but without the tourist crowds. It features the country's first large natural bridge, a 16th-century Baroque church, and the Acienda Designer Outlet with year-round 70% discounts.

  Atlas entry

• Silay

  Silay City is dubbed the Paris of Negros because of its 29 European-inspired ancestral houses declared historical landmarks by the National Heritage Commission of the Philippines. It is the second museum city in the Philippines after Vigan, making it a prime destination for heritage architecture enthusiasts and culture seekers.

  Atlas entry

• Simunul

  Simunul is a small coastal municipality in Tawi-Tawi province, the southernmost region of the Philippines. It holds significance as the believed site of the first mosque in the Philippines, the Sheikh Karimul Makhdum Mosque, with origins dating to 1380 according to local lore.

  Atlas entry

• Sipalay

  Sipalay offers white sandy beaches and coral reefs that remain largely undiscovered by international tourists. The city is a popular weekend escape for locals from Dumaguete and Bacolod seeking peace and quiet away from busier destinations.

  Atlas entry

• Siquijor

  Siquijor combines beaches, old churches and forested inland routes. Its healing traditions and unusual trees give the island a strong folklore identity.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$42

  Best months

  Nov–May

• Solano, Nueva Vizcaya

  Solano serves as the largest commercial center in Nueva Vizcaya and a crucial stopover on the Manila-Banaue/Manila-Tuguegarao route. The town has two banks with ATMs accepting foreign cards (Metrobank and PNB), making it a practical overnight stop for budget travelers.

  Atlas entry

• Sorsogon City

  Sorsogon City is the capital of Sorsogon Province and functions primarily as a transit hub rather than a destination in its own right. The city has minimal tourism infrastructure catering to international visitors, with most establishments serving domestic tourists.

  Atlas entry

• Sual

  Sual is a small coastal municipality in Pangasinan primarily known as a major port town along Lingayen Gulf. The Philippines' largest coal powered plant is located here.

  Atlas entry

• Subic

  Subic is a former US naval base converted into a mixed-use freeport zone on Subic Bay's western shore. Today it offers sandy beaches, world-class technical diving on WWII wrecks, zoologic safaris, and duty-free shopping — all within easy reach of Manila via the expressway.

  Atlas entry

• Taal

  Taal preserves a compact collection of Spanish-era houses and religious sites. Walk between the basilica area, heritage museums and the steps leading down to Caysasay.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$49

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Taal Volcano

  Taal Volcano is one of the Philippines' most accessible active volcanoes, often described as the world's smallest volcano or 'a lake within a volcano within a lake.' It is the country's only Decade Volcano—one of a group scientists consider particularly dangerous due to proximity to cities—and the second most active volcano in the Philippines after Mount Mayon, with 34 recorded eruptions since 1572.

  Atlas entry

• Tabaco

  Tabaco serves as the primary ferry port for travel to Catanduanes Island, making it an essential transit stop in Albay province. The city offers views of the iconic Mayon Volcano and hosts the annual Tabak Festival celebrating the local cutlery-making tradition.

  Atlas entry

• Tablas

  Tablas Island is the largest island in Romblon province and remains one of the least urbanized destinations in the Philippines. The island offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving, rolling hills for hiking, and a chance to experience traditional Filipino island culture without the crowds of more commercial destinations.

  Atlas entry

• Tabuk, Kalinga

  Tabuk is the capital of Kalinga province in the Luzon Cordilleras, serving as a strategic junction connecting northern Kalinga, Apayao, Abra, Cagayan, and Mountain Province. The city is best known as the launch point for whitewater rafting adventures on the Chico River, which runs through the Cordillera highlands.

  Atlas entry

• Tacloban

  Tacloban is a regional gateway with important wartime sites. Festivals and the bridge connection to Samar add cultural and landscape interest.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Mar–May

• Tacurong

  Tacurong is a component city in Sultan Kudarat province, situated in the Soccsksargen region of Mindanao. It functions primarily as a transit hub connecting travelers to Lake Sebu and other destinations in the region.

  Atlas entry

• Tagaytay

  Tagaytay sits on a cool ridge above Taal's volcanic landscape. Its viewpoints and unusual puzzle museum make an easy contrast to the surrounding urban growth.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$51

  Best months

  Dec–May

• Tagbilaran

  Tagbilaran is a relaxed entry point to Bohol with museums and memorials near the waterfront. Bridges and roads connect it to nearby beaches, caves and historic towns.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Taguig

  Taguig's Bonifacio Global City is a modern commercial district with museums and public art. Memorial grounds and themed developments provide contrasting stops.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$55

  Best months

  Nov–Apr

• Talisay, Cebu

  Talisay is a small town at the southern edge of Metro Cebu, primarily useful as a transit point between Cebu City and destinations further south like Carcar, Moalboal, and Oslob. The town sits on the main ring highway encircling Cebu Island, making it a natural stopping point for road travel.

  Atlas entry

• Tanauan, Batangas

  Tanauan holds significance as the birthplace of Apolinario Mabini, the "Brains of the Katipunan," a key revolutionary figure in Philippine history. The city preserves colonial-era architecture including the Tanauan Church (National Historical Landmark built 1881) and several ancestral houses along Mabini Avenue.

  Atlas entry

• Tanay

  Tanay sits at the edge of the Sierra Madre, the Philippines' longest mountain range, making it a natural escape from Metro Manila's chaos. The town draws hikers to Camp Capinpin, campers to Tinipak River, and pilgrims to Regina Rica.

  Atlas entry

• Tayabas

  Tayabas was once the provincial capital of Quezon and rivaled Vigan or Taal for its Spanish-era architecture. While many ancestral houses were lost during World War II, the city retains enough historic stone bridges, old churches, and heritage homes to make it a worthwhile stop for architecture and history enthusiasts.

  Atlas entry

• Taytay, Palawan

  Taytay is a low-key municipality on Palawan's east coast that offers a budget-friendly counterpoint to tourist-heavy El Nido. The main draw is Fort Santa Isabel, a 1667 Spanish colonial fortress that is one of the oldest in the Philippines, plus access to Taytay Bay's islands, Irrawaddy dolphin tours at Malampaya Sound, and kayak trips on Lake Manguao.

  Atlas entry

• Tiwi

  Tiwi is a municipality in the northeast quadrant of Albay, Philippines, at the endpoint of the Legazpi-Tiwi coastal road. It is known for its pottery industry and the geothermal power plant at the foot of Mount Malinao.

  Atlas entry

• Trece Martires

  Trece Martires serves as the de facto provincial capital of Cavite and a key crossroads for travelers heading inland to southern Cavite. The city lacks major tourist attractions but offers a glimpse into provincial Philippine governance—it was established in 1954 as the new government center and is named after the Thirteen Martyrs of Cavite, who were executed by the Spanish during the Philippine Revolution.

  Atlas entry

• Tuguegarao

  Tuguegarao combines colonial churches with access to limestone caves and river landscapes. Callao and the nearby Blue Lagoon make contrasting excursions from the city.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$41

  Best months

  Dec–Apr

• Tumauini

  Tumauini is a small municipality in Isabela province offering a quiet alternative to busier Northern Luzon destinations. Its main draw is the Tumauini Church, a Spanish colonial-era national treasure with the Philippines' only cylindrical bell tower.

  Atlas entry

• Urdaneta

  Urdaneta is the commercial center of eastern Pangasinan, serving as a junction city on the Manila North Road. With a population of 132,000, it offers local hotels, three shopping malls, and public markets for travelers passing through the region.

  Atlas entry

• Valenzuela

  Valenzuela is a city of 620,000 people in northwest Metro Manila, forming part of the Camanava Area. It serves largely as a residential and industrial suburb rather than a primary tourist destination.

  Atlas entry

• Vigan

  Vigan's cobbled heritage streets combine several architectural traditions. Churches, plazas and local food make the compact centre suited to unhurried walks.

  Daily budget (USD)

  ~$43

  Best months

  Nov–Apr

• White Beach, Mindoro

  White Beach is known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets. While quieter than nearby Sabang, it still offers a lively mix of bars, restaurants, and evening entertainment including fire dancing performances and live music.

  Atlas entry

• Zamboanga City

  Zamboanga City is Mindanao's third-largest urban center and the region's most important seaport, making it a critical transit hub for connections to the Sulu Archipelago, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The city calls itself "Asia's Latin City" for its Spanish-based Chavacano creole and shared traditions with Spain, including Our Lady of the Pilar as patron saint.

  Atlas entry

• Zamboanguita

  Zamboanguita is a small seaside town of about 25,000 people on Negros Oriental's southern coast. It's primarily known as the jumping-off point for Apo Island and has several diving resorts clustered along the shoreline.

  Atlas entry