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Travel & Food

6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Explore in the Philippines

Dreaming of your next adventure? The Philippines is blessed with UNESCO World Heritage sites that take your breath away. Picture yourself hiking ancient rice terraces, exploring an underground river, and diving around pristine coral reefs.


These wonders, chosen for their unique beauty and cultural significance, offer a glimpse into the Philippines’ rich history and stunning natural beauty. Keep reading to learn more about these incredible sites and plan your journey today.

1. Tour the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras

Photo of the Banaue Rice Terraces, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The rice terraces are one of the country’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Image Credit: John Renzo Aledia / Pexels

Go on a trek to the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras and discover a 2,000-year-old masterpiece carved into the mountains. Built by the Ifugao people on steep slopes, these man-made wonders are a testament to their ingenuity and determination. The rice terraces contour the mountains of the Cordillera Region at elevations as high as 1,500 meters above sea level. These impressive terraces are divided into clusters, each with its own charm.


While the rice terraces cover a large area, UNESCO recognizes five well-preserved rice terrace clusters as World Heritage Sites:


  • Nagacadan in Kiangan is known for its two ascending rows of terraces divided by a river.

  • Hungduan has a distinctive spider web pattern.

  • Central Mayoyao features traditional houses and granaries interspersed among the terraces.

  • Bangaan in Banaue offers a stunning backdrop to a traditional Ifugao village.

  • Batad in Banaue is famous for its amphitheater-like formation with a village nestled at its base.

Where to Stay

Planning to explore multiple rice terrace clusters? Consider staying in the area for a few days. Here are some lodging options to enhance your experience:


2. Explore the Baroque Churches of the Philippines

The courtyard of the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila, filled with pilgrims offering prayers during Visita Iglesia.

The San Agustin Church in Intramuros is the most famous of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Image Credit: Department of Tourism – Philippines Facebook page

Marvel at the beauty of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses four magnificent churches built during the Spanish colonial era (16th to 18th centuries). These include:


  • The Church of the Immaculate Conception of San Agustin in Intramuros, Manila
    Details: General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila

  • The Church of La Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur
    Details: 4 Santa Maria–Burgos Road, Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur

  • The Church of San Agustin in Paoay, Ilocos Norte
    Details: Marcos Avenue, Paoay, Ilocos Norte

  • The Church of Santo Tomas de Villanueva in Miagao, Iloilo
    Details: Zulueta Avenue, Miagao, 5023, Iloilo


These structures fused European aesthetics with local materials and building techniques. Builders constructed them from lime-reinforced stone or brick, resulting in a distinctive, fortified design that could withstand earthquakes.

Where to Stay

Looking for a place to rest and recharge during your explorations? Here's a recommended hotel in each city:


  • The Bayleaf Intramuros in Manila is known for its historic charm and features a rooftop bar with city views.
    Details: Muralla cor. Victoria Street, Intramuros, Manila, 1002; (+632) 5318 5000

  • Hotel Luna in Ilocos Sur is a stylish boutique hotel with a museum-like ambiance, showcasing contemporary Filipino art. It’s a great base that lets you easily visit the Church of La Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion in Santa Maria, which is a 30-minute drive away.
    Details: V. Delos Reyes cor. Gen. Luna Street, 2700, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur; (+63)917-564-0727 / (+6377) 3020506

  • Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel in Laoag, Ilocos Norte in Ilocos Sur is a 20-minute drive to the church in Paoay. It offers cozy rooms, traditional Ilocano cuisine, and a cultural experience.
    Details: Barangay 37, Calayab, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, 2900, Philippines; (+63)917-599-4863

  • Injap Tower Hotel in Iloilo provides affordable and comfortable accommodation. From there, it’s a one-hour drive to the church in Miagao.
    Details: Diversion Road, Mandurriao, Iloilo City, 5000; (+63 977) 808 8111

3. Wander Through the Historic City of Vigan

Historic Calle Crisologo street in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines.

The cobblestoned street known as Calle Crisologo is the most iconic landmark in the Historic City of Vigan.

Step back in time as you explore the Historic City of Vigan, a remarkably preserved 17.25-hectare Spanish colonial town. Established in the 16th century, Vigan developed an iconic architectural style influenced by Europe, China, and other regions of the Philippines. UNESCO describes the city’s cultural fusion as having “no parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.”


Here are some must-visit landmarks in Vigan’s historic streets:


  • Calle Crisologo is one of the town’s most iconic locations, featuring a cobblestoned street and buildings in the colonial style.
    Details: Crisologo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

  • Plaza Salcedo is famous for its fountain and its dancing light show, which takes place every evening.
    Details: Located next to the Vigan Cathedral, at the center of the city

  • Plaza Burgos is great for foodies with its varied street food stalls—try the local empanadas, longganisa, and coffee.
    Details: Florentino Street

  • Arce Mansion, Crisologo Museum, and Syquia Mansion are ancestral houses and mansions that give a glimpse of what life was like during Spanish colonial times.
    Details:

  • National Museum of the Philippines' Ilocos Complex is beside the provincial capitol along Burgos Street and includes multiple museums like the house of martyr Padre Jose Burgos.
    Details: Burgos Street; (+63)917 504 8014

  • Bantay Church Bell Tower dates back to the 16th century and offers a great view overlooking Vigan.
    Details: 003 Rizal Street, Bantay; (+63)916-452-0623

Where to Stay

Want to fully immerse yourself in Vigan's charm? Consider these inviting hotels for your adventure:


  • The Vigan Heritage Mansion Hotel, established in 1885, allows you to experience a stay in a historic setting. This mansion once served as the home of the late Ilocos Sur governor, Pedro Singson.
    Details: Liberation Boulevard, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, 2700; (+6377) 722 6495

  • The Vigan Plaza Hotel showcases Vigan’s unique blend of Spanish and Chinese architectural influences.
    Details: Mena Crisologo Street, Barangay II, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, 2700; (+63)917 799 9874

  • Villa Angela Ancestral House is a heritage house built in 1873, which is now a charming boutique hotel.
    Details: #26 Quirino Boulevard, Barangay VI, City of Vigan, Ilocos Sur, 2700; (+63)928 515 1873

4. Discover Tubbataha Reefs National Park

Fishes swimming over a coral garden at Tubbataha Reefs National Park and World Heritage Site.

The Tubbataha Reefs National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important areas for marine biodiversity in the world.

Image Credit: Tubbataha Reefs National Park and World Heritage Site Facebook page

Calling all eco-warriors! Prepare to be amazed by the Tubbataha Reefs National Park in the Sulu Sea. This marine protected area is known for breathtaking underwater vistas, including various lagoons, islets, and a 100-meter perpendicular coral wall.


Explore this incredible marine protected area, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, and discover a world teeming with life. You'll encounter hundreds of species of fish, corals, sharks, dolphins, and whales. Keep an eye out for nesting sea turtles and marvel at the abundance of birds that call this park home.

Where to Stay

Since the Tubbataha Reefs National Park is a 10-hour boat ride from Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s capital, you’ll need to arrange a live-aboard trip for a few days.


View options and learn about the necessary permits and fees via the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO).

5. Venture into Puerto Princesa’s Subterranean River National Park

Boat with tourists at the entrance to the underground river in the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is the second-largest underground river in the world.

Image Credit: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park & World Heritage Site Facebook page

Navigate the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2012. The park features the second-largest underground river in the world, where you can explore two levels and witness cascading underground waterfalls. Large chambers with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites will take your breath away.


Before you begin your journey, remember to get a permit at the Underground River Booking Office at the Puerto Princesa Coliseum. Then, head north to the village of Sabang, where your subterranean river tour awaits!


Bonus tip: Make the most of your stay in the city and check out these activities:


Where to Stay

Try these resorts and hotels as you explore more of Palawan’s wonders.


6. Trek Through Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

Trekkers going up the mountain at the Mount Hamaguitan World Heritage Park in Davao.

Trek through Mount Hamaguitan World Heritage Park and marvel at unique wildlife, majestic waterfalls, and the pygmy forest.

Image Credit: ASEAN Center for Biodiversity Facebook page

Explore the incredible biodiversity of the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ASEAN Heritage Park. Spanning 6,834 hectares in Davao Oriental, this sanctuary hosts over 1,300 species of flora and fauna. Tourists flock here to see its best-known residents—the Philippine eagle and Philippine cockatoo.


The area is also home to several globally threatened and endangered species, making its preservation as a natural wonder all the more critical.

Where to Stay

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is about three and a half hours’ drive from Davao City, so you may want to book at least one night’s accommodation near the park.


Mt. Hamaguitan Escape Resort, just over six kilometers from the sanctuary, offers a couple of rooms, family rooms, and glamping. It’s the closest lodging you’ll likely find near the sanctuary, with most other listings being at least 20 kilometers away.


Details: La Union, San Isidro, Davao Oriental, 8200; (+63)906 561 6480

Plan Your Trips

Whichever type of travel planning personality you have, here are a few tips when working out your itinerary to visit the various UNESCO World Heritage Sites:


  • Consider the seasons. Plan your trip for the months of November to May to avoid travel disruptions during the rainy season (June to October).

  • Reserve early. Accommodation, transport, tours, and other arrangements may be limited, depending on your destination. Booking early gives you more chances for discounts on your stay.

  • Stay connected. A reliable internet connection is essential for more than just sharing your adventures online. It's crucial for safety, navigation, and accessing real-time information during your travels. Before you go, ensure you have a stable connection. Explore options like the 5G SIM for blazing-fast speeds and Go+ Promos, which offer generous data allowances. For international travelers, the Traveler eSIM provides convenient 5G access. (Check your phone's compatibility with the GlobeOne app.)

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are dedicated to the preservation of the world’s natural and cultural heritage. When traveling to these six sites, don’t forget to show your appreciation for those who have dedicated themselves to protecting and conserving the environment and its history. Learn about their efforts, support local initiatives, and travel responsibly to help preserve these amazing places.

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