The Philippines is famous not just because of its beautiful islands but also because it has the longest Christmas on earth. When September 1st comes it is the start of the so called ‘BER’ months three months prior the actual Christmas day. Radio stations, malls and other commercial establishments’ starts to play Christmas songs and you can see all those glittering Christmas decorations adorn at hotel lobbies, restaurants and houses. It is also the time when holiday promos from our favorite airlines pop up so here are the 15 Amazing Places to Visit in the Philippines this Christmas season.
San Fernando, Pampanga
A first class city and capital of the province of Pampanga most popularly known for being the ‘Christmas Capital of the Philippines’ and hailed by CNN as ‘Asia’s Christmas Capital.’ During December until the first week of January they hold the annual ‘Giant Lantern Festival’ where giant ‘parol’ are displayed for competition. You can also seek adventure at the Sky Ranch Pampanga, visit the Arzobispado De Pampanga Church or bounce and have fun with your family at the Jump Yard Indoor Trampoline Park. Not to forget that Pampanga is also Philippines’ culinary centre so you will have lavish food feast when you visit the place.
Photo credit: Caryl Joan Estrosas
Cebu
Dubbed as the Queen City of the South and centrally located in the Philippine archipelago. It consists of a main land and 167 surrounding islands and islets giving you a lot of place to go to. Cebu is not just all about the tall building and great opportunities. There are historical landmarks to visit like Magellan’s Cross and Basilica Minore del Santo Nino. You can also relax and enjoy in there white sand beaches in the islands of Badian, Bantayan, and Mactan or dive to see the sardine run at Moalboal.
Photo Credit: Pearly Jane C. Sibonga
Batanes
If you want to experience the Christmas chill then you can go and visit Batanes this December. From November to February the temperature in Batanes drops down to 7 degrees Celcius making it an alternative choice for Baguio if you want a colder weather. It has plenty of spots worthy of your time and will make you feel you’re in New Zealand. Like the Rakuh a Payaman or Marlboro hills, Nakabuang Beach and Mahayaw arch, Valugan Boulder Beach and the very famous Basco Lighthouse.
Tagaytay
Relax and enjoy the cold December breeze in Tagaytay while drinking a hot cup of coffee with your family and friends. Visit the picture-taking worthy Christmas village with unique mountain atmosphere. If you’re up for extreme activities this Christmas you can try zip lining or volcano trekking with the jaw-dropping view of the smallest active volcano in the world.
Palawan
An-island province rich in biodiversity, natural wonders and is called last ecological frontier. It is famous for its underground rivers, diverse wildlife, coral reef, white sand, magical beautiful lagoons, and sparkling blue water. Some of the activities you can do are hiking, snorkeling and touring. You can take “selfies” all you want in this paradise like haven.
Photo Credit: Raxael Divinagracia
Bohol
The province is a popular tourist destination with its beaches, resorts, and the most popular attraction of them all the Chocolate Hills. It is an eco-friendly tourism paradise suited for adventurers. If you love diving then visiting Panglao Island when you are in Bohol is a must! It is routinely listed as one of the top ten diving locations in the world. You can also try to cruise along Loboc river, play with Tarsiers, Go on a bike tour around Bohol, go dolphin watching with your family and many more! Bohol is surely one of the diverse and interesting vacation spot you can choose to visit.
Photo Credit: Sweden Ross A. Malalis
Bacolod
Is a highly urbanized city bearing the nickname “the City of Smiles” and known for being a relatively friendly city. Notable for its MassKara Festival held on the third week of October and famous for their piaya and original chicken inasal. Bacolod is also a top destination to visit this holiday season because it offers the sportsman various outdoor activities like water sports, tennis, mountain climbing, and its biggest attraction golf. Your visit to Bacolod would be incomplete without a trip to The Ruins at Talisay City.
Cavite
The province played an important role in both the country’s colonial past and eventual fight for independence, earning it the title “Historical Capital of the Philippines”. It is rich in history and tourists spots as well. If you plan to celebrate this year’s Christmas in Cavite then you can witness the Maytinis Festival. It is held annually during the Christmas Eve in the town of Kawit. The festival showcases the remake of St. Joseph and Virgin Mary’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem and other ancient biblical scenes. What a way to celebrate Christmas right?
Baguio
A mountain resort city located in Northern Luzon, Philippines and is best known to be the summer capital of the country. The city is known for its mild climate owing to its high elevation. It is located approximately 4810 feet above mean level. So if you plan to escape from the hot and busy city, the City of Pines will be waiting for you this holiday season. Take a peak on Bencab’s Museum, take a walk on Camp John Hay, and enjoy some outdoor recreation at Burnham Park. Don’t forget to buy woven, knitted and wooden souvenirs of all kind at Mines View Park.
Photo Credit: Vina Montefalcon
Boracay
After the six months closure it’s now time to go back to paradise. Say hello to the dreamy fine white beach sand this December. You will experience world class sunsets, mouth-watering fresh sea foods, comfortable breezy climate, different water sports and the friendly local people. And if you like to party, the night life in the island is fantastic!
Photo Credit: Sweden Ross A. Malalis
Vigan
Located on the western coast of the large island of Luzon and one of the few towns left to have preserved their old structures intact and is a UNESCO Word Heritage site. It is also one of the New7Wonder Cities. Vigan is described as a “place like no other” by both local and foreign experts. You can ride the calesas as you see the Spanish-time houses and streets. Don’t forget to stop by at the Vigan Heritahe Village, Plaza Salcedo, and Baluarte for a complete Vigan experience this Christmas.
Photo Credit: Raxael Divinagracia
Siargao
A tear-drop shaped island in the Philippine Sea and hailed as one of the best surfing spots in the Philippines. It is a water-lover and general adventurer’s dream. Spend your Christmas holidays here this December as you jump off the diving board at Sugba Lagoon or you can try to learn surfing at Kermit or around Generl Luna. Try renting out a motorbike and go for a ride for a better island experience or go on an island hoping. Prepare yourself because you might not want to leave.
Photo Credit: Lorraine Cañete
Photo Credit: Jeyson Vicente
Camiguin
Said to be created by a volcanic eruption and land movements the province is known for its sweet lanzones and their annual Lanzones Festival, scenic Sunken Cemetery and Mt. Hibok-Hibok Protective Lanscape. You can also visit the Giant Clams Sanctuary while on the island. It does not only offer its beautiful white sand beaches but you can also plunge at Mt. Hibok-Hibok ardent hot spring or have a refreshing dip at Sto. Ñino cold spring.
Photo Credit: Sweden Ross A. Malalis
Albay
Home to the most popular Mayon Volcano, Albay is a convenient place to travel and go on food trips. You can go and have a ride of your life around Mt. Mayon with an ATV, visit the ruins ride along the river and see dome free flowing lava. Experience the Quitinday Underground River, Japanese Tunnel or jump on the 320-meter long zip line. Albay is definitely one of the amazing places to visit in the Philippines this Christmas.
Davao
Adventure junkie, foodie or animal-lover this is the place to be for I have save the best for last. Davao is one of the safest place on Earth and home of the 16th president of the Republic of the Philippines. It has acres of wildlife sanctuaries like the Crocodile Park, Malagos Garden, Eden Nature Park and Philippine Eagle Center. You can visit Museo Dabawenyo and Davao Museum to know about the city’s history and culture. After 5pm Roxas Avenue will turn into a night Market full with food stalls of fresh and cooked seafood, meats, veggies and desserts to choose from. Life is is definitely in here!
Photo Credit: VC Moscoso
As the Holidays season fast approaching this list of 15 Amazing Places to Visit in the Philippines in Christmas will surely help you decide where to go on your next adventure.