Last Updated: October 3, 2022
Famous Landmarks In The Philippines
The Philippines is best known for its idyllic turquoise waters and pristine white, black, and even pink sandy beaches, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some spectacular sights on dry land too. In fact, the Philippines is home to a range of both land- and water-based attractions that are well worth a visit, ranging from historical and cultural sights to raw natural beauties.
So, keen to find out what lies beyond the palm-fringed shore of the Philippines? You’re in the right place! Read on for our top-rated landmarks in the Philippines.
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Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, Puerto Princesa (Palawan Island)
Any trip to the Philippines is incomplete without a trip down the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. The tranquil water is surrounded by some of the country’s most spectacular flora and fauna, and the sight of the emerald river flanked by sheer limestone cliffs covered with creeping foliage is one you’ll never forget.
What’s more, the river winds its way through an impressive network of underground caves that have earned it the nickname of the ‘Underground River’. The mighty river flows within the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a protected area located in the west of Palawan Island. It spans 8.2 km in total, although just half of this stretch is open to visitors.
Eventually, despite its mountainous origins, the river connects to the ocean, and these lower parts of the river experience high and low tides, just like the ocean itself. This connectivity, along with the spectacular biodiversity and stunning rocky scenery, lead to the site being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1999.
Once you reach the capital of Palawan, travel north to Sabang via bus, jeep, or van. Here, you can easily find the Tourism Office that organizes tickets and tours.
The Chocolate Hills, Bohol (Bohol Island)
The Chocolate Hills in the Bohol Province truly are a geologist’s dream. Spanning over 50 sq km, the brown peaks of the hills protruding far above a luscious layer of green foliage really is a sight to behold. Legend has it that the impressive mounds were formed by giants and, although the stories vary wildly, the landscape certainly does have a way of making you feel small.
Unsurprisingly, this is one of the most popular tourists attractions in the Philippines, and tourists visit the site year-round – a word of warning, though, if you want to see the hills in their true glory, it’s best to visit from January to May.
During these months, the dry climate strips the mounds of the greenery, hence their ‘chocolatey’ appearance (when rainfall is high during other months of the year, the tops of the hills turn green instead).
The hills can be reached by air (you can fly straight to Tagbilaran), ferry (there are heaps of places you can rock up by boat), or both (many people fly to Cebu then catch a ferry to Bohol itself), and there are buses that can take you to the foot of the hills themselves. But, if you want to keep things simple, we definitely recommend booking a trip through one of the many tour operators working in the region.
Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao (Luzon Island)
While the rice paddies of Peru have gathered worldwide attention, becoming an iconic symbol of the country itself, the rice terraces of the Philippines have been somewhat overlooked in comparison.
The Banaue Rice Terraces, located in the Ifugao Province of Luzon Island, were painstakingly carved into the mountains of Banaue in years gone by, and they now form a formidable part of the landscape. Almost 5000 ft above sea level, and maintained by water diverted from the rainforests found even higher up the mountainside, these terraces are an astonishing example of ancient agriculture.
The government of the Philippines designated the terraces as a National Culture Treasure many years ago and, in 2009, the terraces were proudly declared GMO-free. As well as breathtaking views and an escape from the heat of the sandy shores, a trip to Banaue offers tourists a chance to walk among incredibly friendly locals and soak up some cultural and culinary delights along the way.
Aguinaldo Shrine, Cavite (Luzon Island)
The Aguinaldo Shrine, located in the Province of Cavite on Luzon Island, is a national treasure in the Philippines. It was here that, in 1898, the country was declared independent from its former colonizers, after more than three centuries of Spanish influence.
This day became known as Philippines Independence Day (or ‘Araw ng Kalayaan’) and is now a public holiday celebrated on June 12 – on this date, the Philippines flag is raised high above the shrine in celebration.
But the building itself was more than just the birthplace of independence – it was also the birthplace and home to the Philippines’ first president, Emilio Aguinaldo, in 1869. This home-turned-national-monument is oozing with history, and it’s clear that Aguinaldo himself prepared his home well in advance of its donation to the government.
You can now wander freely around the many rooms of the mansion (although a donation is recommended), including its many secret passageways and hiding spots, and marvel at the historical artifacts that remain there today. In the garden, you’ll find the tomb of Emilio himself, a man who dedicated his life to freeing the country from Spanish rule and is considered by many as a national hero.
Calle Crisologo, Vigan (Luzon Island)
Next up we have Calle Crisologo, a striking reminder of the reign of the Spaniards in the Philippines.
With its old-school colonial buildings, Hispanic-influenced snacks (we recommend the Ilocos Empanada), and the chance to take a trip on a horse and carriage, it’s easy to forget that you’re in Asia as you make your way along the small (500m) yet impressive street.
The cobblestone street is an architect’s delight, and many of the buildings are former houses of tradesmen, with characteristic red roofs and extravagant doors. In fact, the centuries-old structures are so well preserved that the entire area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you want to delve a little deeper into the history of the area, then why not sign up for one of the many tours? Oh, and make sure you take some cash with you, this little street is lined with exquisite antiques and handicrafts.
Mayon Volcano, Albay (Luzon Island)
We’re heading back to Luzon Island now to bring you the Mayon Volcano, the most formidable landmark in the Philippines. This impressive volcano rises up a whopping 2462m from the shores of Albay, and its walls form a perfect stratovolcano (basically, its walls are totally symmetrical), earning it the nickname of the ‘Perfect Volcano’.
Although the beauty of the mount has long attracted climbing and camping enthusiasts, a trip to the slopes of the volcano is not without risk – the volcano is highly active and its eruptions, alongside associated landslides and floods, have been the cause of thousands of deaths and evacuations over the years.
If this doesn’t phase you, then there are two multi-day trails you can take to reach the summit of the volcano. While the hikes certainly aren’t for the fainthearted, for those determined enough to make it to the top, the reward is spectacular views over the Albay region and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the crater itself.
The trails can be even more strenuous at certain times of the year, especially after the rains, so it’s best to team up with one of the many local guides in the area.
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Tubbataha Reefs (Palawan Island)
We’re heading back to Palawan now to introduce you to what is arguably the best reef in the whole of the Philippines. The reefs are found within the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, which spans almost 100,000 hectares of ocean. This protected area is characterized by two large coral atolls and has become a haven for marine and bird life.
In fact, the reefs are home to almost 90% of coral species found across the Philippines as well as a high abundance of species that are endangered worldwide, so it’s not surprising the park has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The incredible coral formations, combined with the chance to see a plethora of megafauna (tiger sharks, dolphins, turtles) macro species, and huge schools of reef fish have made the reefs an incredibly popular diving destination – but be warned, the sites can only be accessed via liveaboards, and you typically have to book waaaay in advance.
Located 150km Southwest of Palawan’s capital, in the heart of the Sulu Sea, trips typically depart from the province of Puerto Princesa and can take almost a day to reach the reef.
San Agustin Church, Manila (Luzon Island)
If you’re flying in to Manila, then don’t forget to check out the sights on your doorstep before heading out on your island-hopping adventures. The building of the San Augustin Church began way back in 1571, making it the oldest church in the whole of the Philippines.
The exterior of the building is a work of art, oozing with baroque character and heavily adorned with pillars, but it’s the interior that really steals the show. Expect to find intricate ceiling paintings, spending carvings, and various artifacts from times gone by as you make your way around the inside (but be aware that the church remains a place of worship to this day).
In honor of its beauty and incredible resilience (it’s survived earthquakes, fires, and more), the church was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with three other churches, in 1993.
Tinuy-an Falls, Surigao del Sur (Mindanao Island)
If you find the heat starting to get to you on your next trip to the Philippines, then why not head on over to the refreshing Tinuy-an Falls for a chance to cool down and rejuvenate? Often termed the ‘Little Niagara Falls of the Philippines’, the impressive multi-leveled waterfall cascades gradually 55m from top to bottom, and is almost double the length side to side.
The falls are dotted with natural plunge pools, which make an awesome place to sit back and watch the fishes through the crystal clear water, or to take a little swim to soak up the sights. But if you prefer to stay nice and dry, don’t worry, there are plenty of rafts in the area that take you up close to the falls for spectacular views without the need for your swimsuit (make sure you take your camera with you!).
The falls can be reached from Bislig city in under an hour by road (you’ll see private vehicles, tour buses, and even motorbikes en route), and the entrance fee is minimal. The falls are generally regarded as safe and well maintained (flotation devices are mandatory for swimmers and rafters alike), but be careful when swimming close the edges, especially on the highest tier.
Leyte Landing Memorial Park, Palo (Leyte Island)
And here’s one for any history buffs out there, the Leyte Landing
Memorial Park, commemorating the landing of American forces (for the second time) during WW2.
After a ferocious struggle between a coalition of American, Australian, and Filipino forces against the Japanese, American troops were forced to vacate the area. The US general, Douglas McArthur, promised to return to help their Filipino allies and, three years later, he did.
Although it was no easy feat, the return of US troops eventually lead to the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation, hence the significance of the site.
When the American troops returned, they landed on Red Beach in Palo and made their way through the shallows to the shores of the Philippines. Bronze statues found within the park now depict this iconic scene, and there’s also a museum for visitors keen to learn a little more about the events that occurred during the war.
Summing Up
So, there you have it, our list of top landmarks in the Philippines. As we’ve seen, the Philippines has far more to offer than just pristine beaches – whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history fan, or culture vulture, you’re in for a real treat!
About the Author Roger Timbrook
Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!
