White-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, volcano hikes and street food sprees that hit all the right notes- the Philippines is about more such experiences that linger long even after your trip to this country is over. There are almost 7,000 islands in the country and each day here is different because of the wide variety of things to do in Philippines - be it the island-hopping in the crystal-clear waters or the search for waterfalls which are hidden deep in the jungle. Warm locals, colourful festivals and a relaxed island atmosphere make it obvious why tourists always return. Given below is a list of the most popular things that one shouldn't miss out on in the Philippines tour packages including must-try adventure activities, cultural experiences as well as simple moments that make the trip all the more worth remembering.
15 Things to Do in Philippines
Be it island-hopping, scuba diving, volcano hikes or going on local food trails, the Philippines offers experiences beyond just beaches. Every island brings a new adventure, making the journey vibrant, diverse and unforgettable. Let us have a look at the 15 best things to do in Philippines Manila.
1. Go Island Hopping in El Nido, Palawan
One of the most unforgettable things to do in the Philippines is island hopping in El Nino, which is full of limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons and hidden beaches. The experience includes such well-known destinations as Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Beach and Shimizu Island. The serene waters and scenic nature make it one of the Philippines' famous things that are enjoyed by first-time visitors. Guided boat tours also provide ease of accessibility to distant islands as well as spending time on white-sand beaches swimming, snorkelling and relaxing. It remains one of the top things to do in Philippines for nature lovers.
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Timings: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹2,000 - 3,500 per person
2. Explore the Chocolate Hills of Bohol
Visiting the Chocolate Hills represents one of the most unique Philippines things to do, offering a natural wonder that is found nowhere else. The site comprises more than 1,200 cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season and give the impression of large drops of chocolate. Panoramic views can be obtained from viewing platforms, especially in the early morning and at sunset. The area also initiates visitors into the rural character of Bohol; thus, it is suitably appropriate for those visitors interested in what to do in Philippines than just beaches. It is relatively well maintained and easy to reach, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
Location: Carmen, Bohol
Timings: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹200 - 400 (entry and viewpoint access)
3. Dive or Snorkel in Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
Diving in Tubbataha Reefs is one of the most rewarding things to do in Philippines for marine life enthusiasts. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and nestles coral gardens, reef sharks, manta rays and over 600 fish species. Renowned globally for its pristine underwater ecosystem, it ranks among notable attractions in the Philippines for adventure seekers. It is very remote access is limited to liveaboard dive trips, therefore minimizing environmental impact. This is a great activity for those travelers seeking premium activities to do in Philippines, this experience stands out.
Location: Sulu Sea, Palawan
Timings: Seasonal dives only
Average Cost: ₹1,50,000 - 2,50,000 (liveaboard packages)
4. Walk Through History in Intramuros, Manila
Exploring Intramuros is one of the most cultural things to do in Philippines that offers an insight into the Spanish colonial heritage of the country. It has a wide range of historical churches, cobblestone streets, ancient forts and museums displaying Filipino heritage. The ability to walk or ride a bicycle around Intramuros enables visitors to understand how the modern Philippines came about, making this an ideal activity for those who want more cultural insight rather than simply outdoor activities. This is also one of the most accessible activities to do in Philippines for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Location: Manila
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹500 - 1,200 (entry fees and guided tours)
5. Swim with Whale Sharks in Oslob, Cebu
Swimming with the whale sharks in Oslob is among the most talked-about things to do in Philippines since it offers one of those rare chances to observe these gentle giants up close. Such big yet gentle creatures visit this place all year round, making the experience accessible very easily. Safety and conservation are ensured through strict adherence to guidelines. This continues to be one of the most well-known attractions in Philippines for lovers of wildlife and photographers. For travelers in search of memorable activities, the encounter presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Location: Oslob, Cebu
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹2,500 - 4,000 per person
6. Experience Manila’s Nightlife in Poblacion and BGC
Exploring the city after sunset is one of the most exciting things to do in Philippines at night, especially in Manila’s buzzing neighbourhoods like Poblacion and Bonifacio Global City. These areas offer rooftop bars with skyline views, live music venues, speakeasy-style lounges and energetic clubs that stay open till late. The nightlife scene blends international party vibes with local energy, making it one of the more unique things to do in Philippine cities after dark.
Location: Poblacion & Bonifacio Global City, Manila
Timings: 7:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Average Cost: ₹1,500 - 3,000
7. Get Close to Nature with a Mount Mayon Volcano Experience
Visiting Mount Mayon is one of the most scenic things to do in Philippines for travellers who are oriented toward stark landscapes. Renowned for its near-perfect conical form, this active volcano provides guided viewing trails, modest surface hikes and ATV excursions rather than summit ascents. The experience enables visitors to observe expansive vistas, lava pathways and the surrounding countryside with comparatively moderate physical demand. It is distinctive within Philippine nature tourism as an integration of adventure, photographic opportunity and local folklore. Early morning visits have the clearest visibility and the best chance of seeing the volcano in its full form.
Location: Albay, Luzon
Timings: 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹1,000 - 3,000
8. Go on a Street Food Crawl in Manila
A food crawl in Manila's historical districts is a truly flavorful experience, providing an immersive experience with both local food and culture. Places like Binondo and Quiapo have various stalls selling iconic dishes like lechon, halo-halo, isaw and all kinds of noodle soups. Food tours will help you get through the busy streets while explaining the historical roots of each dish. If you are looking for more unique things to do in Philippines other than sightseeing, this cultural experience in the Philippines is truly one of a kind.
Location: Binondo & Quiapo, Manila
Timings: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹1,000 - 2,000
9. Kayak Through the Puerto Princesa Underground River
Kayaking down the Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the most iconic things to do in Philippines, combining adventure with natural beauty. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vast cave system with dramatic limestone formations, echoing chambers and underground waterways. Safety is ensured on guided tours, but the guides also explain the ecological significance of the river and surrounding forest. It feels surreal while being educational at the same time, thus counting among the most unique options in Philippine landscapes. It caters for a wide range of fitness levels and offers something quite different from more mainstream beach-based activities.
Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Timings: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹2,000 - 3,500
10. Enjoy Firefly Watching on the Loboc River at Night
Firefly watching along the Loboc River is one of the most serene things to do in Philippines at night and presents a truly magical experience away from crowded tourist areas. Thousands of fireflies light up the trees as boats move noiselessly through the mangroves, creating a natural twinkling in almost total darkness. This is a slow-pacing activity recommended for couples and travelers who wish to experience nature in serenity. It is also considered one of the best evening activities within the Philippines, which showcases the biodiversity and conservation efforts of the country while offering an unforgettable night tour.
Location: Loboc River, Bohol
Timings: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹800 - 1,500
11. Go Surfing in Siargao Island
One of the most exciting things to do in Philippines among travellers who want to have ocean adventures other than swimming and snorkelling is surfing in Siargao. Siargao is the surfing capital of the country and the waves here are friendly to both amateurs and amateurs and the most renowned of these breaks is Cloud 9. First-timers can easily get started in surf schools and board rentals. Outside of the waves, the relaxed atmosphere of the island, the palm-tree-lined streets and beach cafes contribute to the experience and it is more about the lifestyle than the sport itself to surf in the area.
Location: Siargao Island
Timings: Early morning to sunset
Average Cost: ₹1,500 - 3,000 (lesson and board rental)
12. Visit the Banaue Rice Terraces
One of the most culturally fruitful things to do in Philippines is to explore the Banaue Rice Terraces, which is an insight into the ancient Filipino farming practices. These terraces, cut in the mountains more than 2000 years ago, are referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World. The visit is highly meaningful as one walks the village trails and gets to know about the traditional irrigation systems. Its cool weather and cloudy sceneries contribute to the beauty and are ideal to the slow travellers who like to visit history, nature and heritage outside the mainstream tourist trails.
Location: Ifugao Province, Luzon
Timings: Daytime visits recommended
Average Cost: ₹500 - 1,500
13. Take a River Cruise on the Loboc River
One of the most relaxing things to do in Philippines that offer a perfect combination of nature, culture and local cuisine is a scenic cruise along the river Loboc. Floating restaurants present here serve traditional Filipino meals with the musician playing folk songs along the way. The green banks of the river and stillness of the water form a serene setting and this is the best experience that a family and couple could have. The local communities perform their cultural activities, which enhance the cruise, making a boat ride significant and cultural interaction, which brings out the warm hospitality of the country.
Location: Loboc, Bohol
Timings: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹1,000 - 2,000
14. Chase Waterfalls in Cebu
One of the most adventurous things to do in Philippines is the waterfall chasing in Cebu which is a thrilling experience with thrilling swims, jungle treks and dramatic natural scenery. Kawasan falls and Tumalog falls are some of the popular tourist destinations to visit in Philippines that have turquoise waters and multi-tier falls. There are also several places where canyoneering activities whereby there is cliff-jumping and river-hiking can be done to provide a good dose of adrenaline to the adventure. This is a green forested area and this activity attracts the traveller who is looking to have a day full of activities intermingled with relaxing nature.
Location: Cebu
Timings: 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Average Cost: ₹2,000 - 4,000
15. Relax on the White Beaches of Boracay
One of the most legendary things to do in Philippines is to relax on the powdery white beaches in Boracay particularly where the traveller wants to have a perfect blend of leisure and entertainment. White Beach has relaxing water, sunset, beach cafes, water sports such as parasailing and paddle boarding. There is also a smooth change in the atmosphere between relaxed days and vibrant nights at the beach restaurants and bars. It has well-developed infrastructure and beautiful scenery that makes Boracay to be a great honeymooners, family and first time visitors.
Location: Boracay Island
Timings: All day
Average Cost: ₹1,000 - 3,000 (activities and food)
Conclusion
Be it island-hopping in turquoise waters, volcano views, food trails, night-time nature experiences, the wide variety of things to do in Philippines are a journey filled with contrast and colour. Every island offers something new; it can be adventure, culture, history or even pure relaxation and this is why it is a place that can be chosen by and suits every type of traveller. These are not only for sightseeing but enable the visitors to experience the life of the locals, the land and the culture. This country will provide the experiences that will be remembered long after the journey is completed. Planning the right mix of experiences helps create a balanced itinerary, ensuring that every day in the Philippines feels fresh, immersive and rewarding from start to finish
View on Map
(+91) 9310660016
