Overview of Regions

The Philippines consists of three major island groups: Luzon in the north (with the capital Manila), the Visayas in the center, and Mindanao in the south. For travelers, five regions are particularly relevant:

🏙️ Manila

For whom: History buffs, foodies, transit travelers
The capital is chaotic, loud, and overwhelming — but also fascinating. Intramuros (the Spanish old town), Binondo (the oldest Chinatown in the world), and the modern skyline of Makati and BGC show the contrasts of this country. Most travelers spend 1–2 days here before moving on.

🏝️ Palawan

For whom: Beach lovers, divers, nature enthusiasts
Regularly voted the "most beautiful island in the world." El Nido with its lagoons, Coron with sunken shipwrecks, and the Underground River in Puerto Princesa — Palawan is the crown jewel of the Philippines. Here, the water is the clearest and the nature the most pristine.

🐋 Cebu & Bohol

For whom: Adventurers, divers, families
Cebu is the gateway to the Visayas: whale sharks in Oslob, sardines in Moalboal, canyoneering at the Kawasan Falls. Neighboring island Bohol impresses with the Chocolate Hills, tiny tarsier monkeys, and the white beaches of Panglao. Malapascua attracts with thresher sharks.

🏄 Visayas & more

For whom: Surfers, explorers, individualists
Siargao is the surf capital of the Philippines. Siquijor is considered a mystical island of healers. Dumaguete and Apo Island offer turtle snorkeling. Bantayan and Camiguin are insider tips off the beaten path.

🏔️ Northern Luzon

For whom: Culture travelers, hikers, history enthusiasts
The spectacular rice terraces of Banaue and Batad (UNESCO), the hanging coffins of Sagada, the Spanish colonial town of Vigan (UNESCO), and the cool mountain town of Baguio. Here, the Philippines showcase their cultural and scenic heritage far from the beaches.