Cities in the Philippines - AroundPH

AroundPH

Photo by Bambi Corro

Malay

Malay is globally famous as the gateway to Boracay Island, which is consistently ranked among the best islands in the world for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Visitors flock here to enjoy world-class beach resorts, vibrant nightlife, and local seafood specialties like fresh grilled talaba (oysters).

Photo by Tales From The Orient

Zamboanga

Zamboanga del Sur

Zamboanga City is historically known as Asia's Latin City, famous for its distinct Chavacano language and the colorful, wave-like woven fabrics called yakan. It features iconic heritage landmarks like Fort Pilar and is celebrated for local delicacies like savory satti and curacha (spanner crab) in rich coconut sauce.

Photo by Discover Philippines

Naga

Naga is a historic pilgrim city famous for hosting the Peñafrancia Festival, one of the largest Marian gatherings in Asia, drawing millions of devotees every September. It serves as the gateway to Mount Isarog and offers rich local comfort foods like fiery bicol express and laing.

Upcoming Festivals

Kalag-Kalag Festival November 13

Cebu City, Cebu

Pandag-kitab Oriental Mindoro November 13

Calapan, Oriental Mindoro

Founding Anniversary of Occidental Mindoro November 14

Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro

Sanduguan Festival November 15

Calapan, Oriental Mindoro

P’yagsawitan Festival Every 3rd week of November

Maragusan, Davao de Oro

Kawayanan Festival Every 3rd week of November

Pagadian, Zamboanga del Sur

Kahilwayan Festival November 16

Santa Barbara, Iloilo

Inilusan November 16 - 24

Mambusao, Capiz

Crown Festival Every 3rd week of November

Surfing Festival November 17 - 18

San Juan, La Union

Photo by Airo Gene Alagban

Baguio

Known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio is famous for its cool mountain climate, pine-scented air, and vibrant arts scene recognized globally as a UNESCO Creative City. Visitors flock here to explore Burnham Park, buy local fresh strawberries, and taste authentic Cordilleran dishes like pinikpikan.

Photo by Kylle Pangan

Vigan

Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site globally recognized as Asia's best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town. Walking down its cobblestone Calle Crisologo feels like stepping back in time, complemented by local culinary staples like savory Vigan longganisa and crunchy empanada.

Photo by Ben Bin

Pasay

Pasay is a major aviation and entertainment hub that houses the country's primary international airport gateway alongside massive waterfront leisure complexes like the SM Mall of Asia. It offers visitors a fast-paced urban experience packed with world-class dining, concerts, and bayside attractions.

Photo by Dmitry Berdnyk

Makati

Makati is the country’s premier financial and business capital, housing the towering skyscrapers of the Makati Central Business District and popular upscale lifestyle zones like Ayala Center. It grew from a historic Spanish-era settlement into a bustling modern metropolis defined by dense concrete architecture and urban parks.

Photo by Erwin Cagadas Jr.

Angeles

Angeles is widely recognized as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, famous for inventing legendary local dishes like sizzling sisig and comforting kapampangan kreol cuisine. Steeped in history, it features heritage sites like the Bale Matua and serves as a vibrant cultural center in Central Luzon.

Photo by Wikipedia

General Luna

Surigao del Norte

General Luna is globally renowned as the surfing capital of the country, highlighted by the legendary and heavy right-hand surf break known as Cloud 9. This tropical paradise offers vibrant island culture, white-sand beaches like Guyam Islet, and fresh seafood boodle fights.

Photo by DavaoToday

Davao City

Davao City is one of the largest cities in the world by land area and serves as the economic powerhouse of the south, famous for safeguarding the endangered Philippine Eagle. Visitors enjoy sweet local durian fruit, spicy tuna kinilaw, and scenic views stretching down from the slopes of Mount Apo.

Photo by Phirst Park Homes

Lipa

Lipa is celebrated as the home of the world-renowned kapeng barako, a bold and earthy local coffee variety that defines the city's rich agricultural heritage. Set within a cool highland valley, it features historic landmarks like the San Sebastian Cathedral and modern foodie destinations serving famous Batangas lomi.

Photo by Glenda Wee

Sagada

Mountain Province

Sagada is a tranquil mountain sanctuary nestled in the Cordillera highlands, world-famous for its ancient hanging coffins and mystical limestone caves like Sumaguing. Travelers visit to hike through pine forests, view breathtaking sea-of-clouds sunrises, and sample local meals featuring smoky etag (cured pork).

Photo by Myk Miravalles

Manila

Manila is the historic capital city of the Philippines, housing the ancient walled fortress of Intramuros and global landmarks like Rizal Park. It is a bustling cultural melting pot famous for vibrant street food markets, historic museums, and the magnificent sunset views over Manila Bay.