Philippines Best Holiday Destinations

Christmas celebration in the Philippines is really more fun! Besides, where else would you find a three-month-long celebration, two weeks of parties and reunions, and exchange gifts that extend until January? 

From setting up the decorations and playing Yuletide songs as soon as – ber months start, that is September, to the first week of the following year, Christmas celebrations in the Philippines are several months long, and everyone loves it.

We’ve rounded up places in the Philippines where it’s best to spend the holidays and experience Christmas cheer!

1. BORACAY – Christmas at the Best Beach in the World

Make your Christmas extra special by spending it at the world-famous beach! Boracay has been famous for being a top beach destination in the Philippines but the island isn’t just perfect during summer. You can also enjoy the fine white sand and cerulean waters during the holidays and have the most wonderful Christmas celebrations in the Philippines.

Best places to eat in Boracay

1. Sunny Side Cafe
   Cuisine: Filipino-American
   Must-try dishes: Chori Burgers, Bacon and Mango Grilled Cheese sandwiches, and coffees
2. Jonah’s Fruit Shake and Snackbar
   Cuisine: Filipino
   Must-try drinks: Mango, Avocado, and Pineapple Shakes
3. Ice Land Cafe
   Cuisine: Korean
   Must-try dishes: Egg Sausage Roll, Yogurt, and Coconut Ice Cream with Mango and Peanuts

2. PALAWAN – Christmas in the Wonders of Nature

It doesn’t come as a surprise when Palawan was named as the second-best island in the world by Travel+Leisure online Travel Magazine last July 2019. Palawan never fails to mesmerize its visitors with its jaw-dropping lagoons and white beaches.

These are just a few reasons why tourists around the world include Palawan on their bucket list for Christmas celebrations in the Philippines.

The Small Lagoon in Bacuit Bay is a breathtaking place one should not miss in El Nido. The lagoon is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and is accessible by kayak or by swimming through a hole. You’d also fall in love with its turquoise-green waters. The Big Lagoon also has clear turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and lush green vegetation that will also captivate you.

Best places to eat in Palawan

1. La Plage Sunset Bar & Restaurant
   Cuisine: French
   Must-try dishes: Pistou Pasta, Seafood Pasta, and Mango Crumble
2. El Nido Boutique & Artcafé
   Cuisine: Filipino
   Must-try dishes: Pizza, Pasta, and Pineapple upside-down cake
3. Kalui Restaurant
   Cuisine: Filipino
   Must-try dishes: Pan-Broiled Blue Marlin and Grilled Tuna

3. BAGUIO – A Happy Christmas In The Hills

Although it doesn’t snow in the Philippines, you can still feel the chilly weather and wear your winter outfits while in a tropical country. Where else could that be but up north?

Baguio City is a go-to place for most Filipino families for Christmas celebrations in the Philippines. The cool breeze of the air, the tall pine trees, and the lively night market are the reasons why people would travel for more than 6 hours. 

The main attractions here are the commercial activities such as the souvenir and silverworks stores by the park, and the astounding view of nature from above. Tourists also have a chance to get dressed in the traditional clothing in Cordillera— bahag, shield, and spear for the men, tapis for the ladies, vests, and headdresses for both. Tourists can also ride a horse for picture taking.

Best places to eat in Baguio

1. Cafe by the Ruins
   Cuisine: Filipino
   Must-try dishes: Pinikpikan (a chicken soup used in rituals by natives), the Baguio Bagnet, and Ruins Leche Flan.
2. Farmer’s Daughter Restaurant 
   Cuisine: Authentic Cordilleran Food
   Must-try dishes: Kindot (Grilled Pork), Pinuneg (Blood sausage), and Dabong Salad.
3. Hill Station
   Cuisine: A fusion of European, American, and Asian
   Must-try dishes: Cambodian Coriander and Garlic Chicken, Prawns Peri Peri, and Apple Streusel.

4. TAGAYTAY –  A Christmas with a View!

If you don’t have much time to go to Baguio or are not just a fan of long haul drives, then Tagaytay is your best choice among the destinations for Christmas celebrations in the Philippines.

In just about 2 to 3 hours from Manila, you will already reach Tagaytay. Just like Baguio, it’s also cold there. You can visit museums, enjoy the breathtaking view of Taal Volcano, or just eat the best bulalo in town.

Best places to eat in Tagaytay

1. Balay Dako
   Cuisine: Filipino
   Must-try dishes: Kansi, Salt and Pepper Spareribs, and Kare Kare Klasik.
2. El Cocinero by Chef Arnaldo
   Cuisine: Spanish
   Must-try dishes: The El Cocinero Paella, Solomillo de Ternera, and Churroz con Chocolate.
3. Antonio’s Restaurant
   Cuisine: A fusion of international cuisine
   Must-try dishes: Antonio’s House Salad, Pommery Rubbed Roasted Rack of Lamb, Roasted Duck Breast in a Mixed Berry Red Wine Jus and Lechon de Leche.

5. PAMPANGA – For an old school festive celebration!

This province isn’t called the Christmas Capital of the Philippines for nothing. Because when the Christmas season comes, Pampanga shines with lanterns that are made by the locals. One thing you should look forward to when visiting the province is the Giant Lantern Festival in San Fernando, Pampanga. Expect a parade of huge colorful lanterns and lively street dance.

Just a reminder, many tourists come here to watch the festivals so be sure to book your hotel at ZEN Rooms to avoid the stress of last-minute hotel-searching.

Best places to eat in Pampanga

1. 25 Seeds
   Cuisine: Asian Fusion
   Must-try dishes: Pork baby back ribs, Melt-in-your-mouth Pata Tim, and Mango Sticky Rice with Coconut milk.
2. ESTOS Kitchen + Cafe
   Cuisine: American, Italian and Asian Fusion
   Must-try dishes: Tenderloin with chimichurri sauce, Pizzas, the 15 hours red wine braised short rib and Taho Ice Cream.
3. Piccolo Padre
   Cuisine: Italian
   Must-try dishes: Gnocchi, Osso bucco, and Saffron risotto.

6. BOHOL – A Christmas Amidst Nature!

If you’re too tired of the city parties, why not go on a beach trip this Christmas? Panglao, Bohol is a great destination to have a relaxed and serene holiday to keep you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The province has one of the most beautiful beaches in the country that’s why many locals and tourists go here. Panglao has fine white sand and clear blue waters that will surely make everyone relaxed.

Best places to eat in Bohol

1. Tarsier Paprika
   Cuisine: American and Italian Fusion
   Must-try dishes: Grilled Tomahawk Steak, Smoked Kingfish Carpaccio, and Italian Traditional Fritto Misto.
2. Gerarda’s
   Cuisine: Filipino
   Must-try dishes: Ubi-kinampay, Seafood Kare-Kare, Dinakdakan, and Crispy Tadyan.
3. Oriental Garden
   Cuisine: Filipino-Chinese
   Must-try dishes: Hakaw, Chicken Feet, and Siomai.

7. SIARGAO – An island getaway celebration!

Aside from being one of the best surfing places in the world, Siargao is also home to many beautiful islands, rock pools, and interesting food spots making it a great place to celebrate Christmas in the Philippines.

So if you’re looking for a thrilling holiday, why not spend it in the Surfing Capital of the Philippines?

Best places to eat in Siargao

1. Bake Siargao
   Cuisine: Filipino-American
   Must-try dishes: Rachel’s favorite, Chicken Sandwich, Big Breakfast, and Brownies.
2. Kermit
   Cuisine: Italian
   Must-try dishes: Pan-Seared Tuna, Kermit Pizza, Chocolate Lava Cake, and Mango Daquiri.
3. Harana 
   Cuisine: Filipino
   Must-try dishes: Halo-Halo with Watermelon, Adobo Bibimbap, and Salabat.

8. LA UNION – Sun, surf, and celebrations!

Because of its proximity (4-6 hours away from Manila), La Union has been a favorite long-weekend destination. Most people come here to surf, while others enjoy LU’s best food spots. This place will surely make Christmas Celebrations in the Philippines more fun!

Craving for a different trip, say a fruity kind of adventure? Then head to the grape farms in LU! Experience the hacienda life for a day or pick your own grapes at the vineyard.

Location: Bauang, La Union

Best places to eat in La Union

1. Gefseis Greek Grill
   Cuisine: Greek
   Must-try dishes: Baklava, Kontosouvli Lamb, and Cheese Croquettes.
2. Halo Halo De Iloko Balay
   Cuisine: Ilokano
   Must-try dishes: Fiesta Halo-Halo, Sinampalukang Kambing, and Fried Bagnet.
3. Makai Bowls La Union
   Cuisine: Brazilian
   Must-try dishes: Acai smoothie, Amianan Smoothie Bowl, Carille Smoothie Bowl, and Granola yogurt pop.

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