A trip to the Philippines offers hidden gems, slow food and colourful events
Beyond its capital Manila, the Philippines offers travellers a menu of slow food, coastal activities and festivals not to miss.
The Philippines, an archipelago comprising over 7,000 islands, offers a wide array of attractions for travelers, from stunning coastlines and tropical rainforests to lofty volcanic peaks. According to Marga Nograles, the COO at Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, the country is a tropical paradise that caters to visitors all year round.
During the period from December to May, travelers can indulge in whale watching activities in four different locations across the nation. Additionally, island hopping experiences become available, allowing visitors to explore award-winning beach resorts throughout the archipelago. For adventure enthusiasts, Siargao Island is highly recommended from September to January, as it boasts impressive waves that reach up to nine feet, ideal for thrilling watersports such as canyoneering and the famous sardine run.
Beyond the well-known capital city of Manila, Nograles highlights several lesser-known gems in the Philippines. Siquijor, the third smallest province, boasts beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and a rich local tradition. Caticugan Marine Protected Area is a popular destination for kayaking, trekking, and snorkeling enthusiasts. In Pampanga, Clark is an accessible destination that boasts a rich history, exciting culinary culture, and growing leisure opportunities.
Camiguin, an island home to 14 volcanoes, was recently recognized by The New York Times as one of the 52 Places to Go in 2026, making it an exceptional choice for nature and adventure seekers.
Food tourism in the Philippines is a major highlight, with Iloilo City being named a Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO in 2023. The city is home to more than 300 restaurants, and its cuisine is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the region. The annual Timplada event showcases local cuisine and its culinary heritage.
Meanwhile, Bacolod City has been designated as the first international Slow Food Hub in Asia and the Pacific, while Negros Occidental is recognized as the organic capital of the Philippines. Visitors can enjoy traditional delicacies such as kinilaw, a seafood dish featuring raw fish marinated in vinegar and accompanied by diced tomatoes, red onions, ginger, and lemon zest.
Finally, the Philippines hosts an impressive 40,000 festivals annually, with three notable events worth mentioning. The Sinulog festival in Cebu celebrates the faith of the Santo Niño, featuring street processions, boat parades, and painted faces. The Kadayawan Festival in Davao showcases the region's harvest with concerts, street dancing, and an abundance of fresh fruits.
Lastly, the Panagbenga Festival, held in Baguio City, is a month-long celebration of flowers, with vibrant displays throughout the mountains during the blooming season.
Written by urgent.news from Euronews's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
