One way to discover the beauty of the Philippines is by road-tripping, either by driving your own car or using public transport to take you to one tourist attraction to another. Hitting the road is ideal on weekends, when traffic is light. There are lots of destinations to choose from in the archipelago of 7,107 islands, all you need is a travel guide, comfortable clothing, a handy camera, and spare cash to buy souvenirs and trinkets.

In the island of Luzon alone, there are countless options on where to go and discover the Philippines. Here are some of the recommended road trip destinations in the country.

Manila A simple road trip in the Philippines usually starts in Manila, the country's capital. The city is a favorite among travelers as it is rich in cultural heritage. Turn back the hands of time and discover Manila's Spanish influence with a trip to Intramuros (Walled City), wherein some of the oldest churches, including Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church are located. Other points of interest in Manila are the Rizal Park, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the Malacañang Palace.

Laguna Located southeast of Metro Manila, Laguna is also a perfect road trip destination because it hosts numerous man-made and natural attractions. If you want to relive your childhood memories, a trip to the Enchanted Kingdom amusement theme park in Sta. Rosa is highly recommended. However, if you want to get closer to nature, head straight to Valesol Haven in Los Baños. Laguna is also famous for Pagsanjan Falls, Mt. Makiling, Taytay Falls, and wood carvings and papier mache of Paete.

Pampanga The province of Pampanga is a haven for foodies. Known as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, Pampanga is famous for various dishes from traditional to exotic ones. It is also an ideal place to rekindle your religious spirit, as the province is home to some of the country's beautiful churches such as Betis Church in Guagua. If you're lucky, you will witness some of Pampanga's colorful events such as the Philippine International Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta every February and the Giant Lantern Festival every December.

Ilocos Region A notable travel destination in northern Philippines is Ilocos Sur, which is considered a treasure trove of history and culture. Its provincial capital, Vigan, was declared a World Heritage Site due to its carefully preserved Hispanic houses and cobble-stoned streets. Meanwhile, Ilocos Norte also deserves a visit. In Pagudpud, relax and enjoy its white-sand beaches while experience entering a different dimension in La Paz Sand Dunes.

Baguio Another great weekend retreat destination is Baguio City, the summer capital of the Philippines. Founded by the Americans in 1900, Baguio depends on the tourism industry to boost its coffers. Among its renowned tourist attractions include the Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, and the Mansion. The city is also popular for its strawberry farms and horseback riding sites. Bargain clothes and various sweets are also a hit in Baguio.

Road-tripping in the Philippines is not only confined in Luzon. There are also amazing tourist attractions in Visayas and Mindanao like Cebu, Leyte, Bohol, and Davao to name a few.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.

About the Author

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing for a living since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic crew newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.