7 must-visit places in the Philippines — now visa-free for Indians, with direct flights coming soon

As reported earlier, Indian travellers can now visit the Philippines visa-free for up to 14 days, or 30 days if they hold visas from select countries. And that’s not all, Air India is also set to launch direct flights between Delhi and Manila from October 1, 2025, making this tropical paradise more accessible than ever. If you've been craving blue waters, colonial charm, and offbeat island-hopping, there’s no better time to explore the Philippines.
Here are 7 incredible places to visit now that the paperwork and layovers are out of the way.

Frequently topping “world’s best island” lists, Palawan is everything an escapist could ask for, turquoise lagoons, dramatic limestone cliffs, and postcard-perfect beaches. El Nido offers island-hopping adventures with stops at hidden beaches, secret lagoons, and floating snorkel spots. Meanwhile, Coron is famous for wreck diving, WWII-era Japanese ships sleep beneath crystal-clear waters. Add the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, and you've got a full tropical itinerary in one province.

Boracay’s powdery White Beach is legendary, and after a recent eco-cleanup, it’s never looked better. Divided into Station 1 (luxury), Station 2 (lively), and Station 3 (laid-back), Boracay caters to every type of traveler. Spend your days sailing at sunset, paddleboarding by day, and dancing the night away. And don’t skip the famous chori burger and a mango shake to complete the experience.

From Spanish-era churches in Cebu City to canyoneering adventures at Kawasan Falls, Cebu has a range. Adventurers flock to Oslob to swim alongside whale sharks which are the gentle giants of the sea, while beachgoers love Moalboal for its sardine runs and dive-friendly reefs. For something spiritual, Magellan’s Cross marks the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines in the 1500s.

Bohol is most famous for the surreal Chocolate Hills, with over 1,200 grass-covered limestone mounds that turn brown in the dry season. But it’s also the natural habitat of the Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. Panglao Island offers beach resorts, while a Loboc River cruise adds a serene, cultural touch.

Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines, thanks to its world-famous Cloud 9 break. But it’s not just for surfers. You’ll find tide pools at Magpupungko, palm-fringed lagoons at Sugba, and motorbike trails that wind through coconut groves. It’s less touristy than Boracay, and perfect if you want barefoot luxury with a backpacker soul.

Often just a transit point, Manila is worth a stop. Explore the colonial charm of Intramuros, the old Spanish walled city, or hit up art museums, speakeasies, and rooftop bars in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). The street food, from chicken inasal to isaw (grilled intestines), is a culinary adventure in itself.

Forget beaches for a moment, and head into the Cordillera mountains to see the UNESCO-listed Banaue Rice Terraces, carved into the slopes by the Ifugao people over 2,000 years ago. Misty mornings, warm local hospitality, and challenging treks make this a highland escape for those craving culture and cool weather.