Cruise Ports in the Philippines: Nearby Attractions & Must-Try Tours for Shore Excursions

If your cruise ship includes the Philippines as one of the tour stops, this guide will help you plan your Philippine tours that are near each port to help you make the most of your time in the country.

Where to Go Near Manila Cruise Port

Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is known for its vibrant culture and historic landmarks. Aside from the Manila airport, the Manila Cruise Port is another starting point for travelers exploring the top things to do in Manila. The port has three main sections: North Harbor, South Harbor, and the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT).

When you get off at Manila Cruise Port, you can go on short but exciting Manila tours that offer special insights into Filipino culture and history. Here are some of our recommended tours and activities to try near Manila Cruise Port: 

Intramuros Tour

Explore the history and culture of Manila's "Walled City," Intramuros. Surrounded by strong stone walls built in the 16th century, it's one of the oldest districts in the Philippines. There are many Intramuros tours to choose from, but the two most popular are the Intramuros walking tour and the Intramuros bamboo bike tour.

Most tours follow the typical Intramuros itinerary. You’ll explore Fort Santiago, a 16th-century fortress, and discover its impressive architecture and military history. You can also stroll through Plaza Moriones, Rajah Sulayman Theater, Medya Naranja, and more, learning about their roles during World War II. 

You can also explore government buildings like Palacio Del Governador General and Ayuntamiento de Manila before reaching the iconic Manila Cathedral and Casa Manila, a 19th-century-themed museum showcasing colonial life through art, furnishings, and historical artifacts. This tour will take up to 3 hours.

Binondo Chinatown Tour

Manila has many great places where history and tradition mix, and one standout is Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world. This historic area serves as a testament to Filipino and Chinese culture. One of the best ways to explore this district is to go on a Binondo food crawl with a side trip to its heritage sites.

A typical Binondo tour starts with a visit to Santa Cruz Church. Afterward, you can start your Binondo food trip experience. You can go to Ongpin Street, where you can try siopao and lumpia at Shanghai Fried Siopao and New Eastern Garden Restaurant.

Take a break at Santo Cristo de Longos, then shop for hopia at Eng Bee Tin Grocery. Enjoy more treats like Lord Stow’s egg pies, Dong Bei Dumplings, and noodles from Ling Nam Noodle Factory. End your food trip in the Philippines with cakes at Eng Ho Bake Shop before visiting Binondo Church. This tour usually lasts for 2 hours.

Rizal Park Tour and National Museum Tour

If you want to learn more about the history of the Philippines, joining a Rizal Park and National Museum tour is highly recommended. You’ll start by exploring Rizal Park, a historical gem in Manila. Wander through beautiful gardens, see iconic monuments, and learn about the national hero, Jose Rizal, and his significance in Philippine history. Take a stroll around the park's landmarks, including the Rizal Monument and the Kilometer Zero marker.

Then, head to the National Museum, where you'll discover Filipino art and history. Marvel at fascinating exhibits and ancient artifacts. It’s one of the top museums in Manila. This tour will take up to 4 hours.

Manila Ocean Park

Photo by Manila Ocean Park

Get ready for an exciting day at Manila Ocean Park with a Philippine day pass! You'll enjoy numerous attractions with a Manila Ocean Park all-day pass, starting with the Oceanarium, filled with vibrant marine life. Meet adorable penguins in Trails to Antarctica, and experience a Christmas village. You can also explore the World of Creepy Crawlies and be amazed by Jellies Dancing. 

Toy enthusiasts can't miss the Super Toy Collection. There are also live shows, such as the Sea Lion Show and the All-Star Bird Show. Afterward, you can dine in at one of the best Filipino restaurants in Manila near Manila Ocean Park to try Filipino cuisine. This tour will take up to 8 hours.

Where to Go Near Puerto Princesa Cruise Port (Puerto Princesa, Palawan)

Puerto Princesa, a coastal city in Palawan, is known for its stunning attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage Site and a New7Wonders of Nature Underground River and diverse wildlife. The Puerto Princesa Cruise Port, located near the city center, serves as a gateway connecting cruise passengers with the top Puerto Princesa tourist spots. 

When you arrive at Puerto Princesa Port, you can go on Puerto Princesa tours that will take you to the popular attractions in and near the city. 

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

Embark on a Puerto Princesa tour to the renowned Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. First, you'll travel to the port for a boat ride to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Sabang. Once the briefing for the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour is done, you’ll be exploring an 8.2-kilometer river within a vast cave system, marveling at karst formations and unique rock shapes. Be cautious not to disturb the bats inside. 

After leaving the cave, you'll return to the park, surrounded by lush forests along the river. Here, you’ll see a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Keep an eye out for unique creatures like the Palawan hornbill, Tabon scrub fowl, Palawan bearded pig, long-tailed macaque, and monitor lizards in this natural setting. This tour usually lasts for 7-9 hours.

Puerto Princesa City Tour

Ideal for those wanting to explore more of Puerto Princesa beyond the Underground River, this Puerto Princesa city tour offers a closer look at its inland attractions. Most of the city tours in Puerto Princesa start with a visit to the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, a 10-hectare space renowned for saving endemic crocodiles. You can visit Mitra Ranch and Baker's Hill next for a hillside view of Puerto Princesa City. 

Continue to the Palawan Butterfly Garden, a colorful haven for various butterfly species. Explore a local weaving site where Palawan artisans craft vibrant textiles using traditional methods. You can also visit the Palawan Museum to learn more about the city and island's history through exhibits. You can also check out Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Plaza Cuartel. This tour will take up to 4 hours.

Where to Go Near Caticlan Jetty Port (Boracay)

The most popular tourist destination in the Philippines, Boracay is known for its white beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also popular for water sports and other unique Boracay tourist spots. After taking a flight to Boracay Airport, Caticlan Jetty Port serves as the next step to get to this famous Philippine island.

Upon arrival at Caticlan Jetty Port, you can ride a boat or ferry going to either Cagban Port or Tambisaan Port. Once there, ride a tricycle or car going to Boracay and join exciting Boracay tours to explore the stunning island.

Boracay Island Hopping Tour

Boracay, one of the best places to visit in the Philippines, offers a lot of activities for relaxation and adventure. One favorite is the famous Boracay island hopping tour, which lets visitors explore various islands and beaches aside from White Beach Boracay.

Most island-hopping tours on the island first make a stop at Puka Beach. Here, you can walk on finely crushed puka shells. Then, you can go to Balinghai Beach and snorkel at the Coral Garden. Depending on the season, you can also visit Bulabog Beach, snorkel at Crocodile Island, explore Crystal Cove Island, and end up cliff diving at Magic Island. You can also book a Movenpick Boracay day pass or a Crimson Boracay day pass to access the private beaches of the popular 5-star resorts. An island-hopping tour in Boracay usually lasts for 4 hours.

Boracay White Beach Water Activities

White Beach is one of the best white sand beaches in the Philippines, perfect for water activities. Enjoy the thrill with various activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kite surfing, and snorkeling, and scuba diving. You can also try a banana boat ride, fly fishing, and helmet diving. For an extreme experience, go parasailing in Boracay for a bird's-eye view of the island. And don't forget to lounge and swim at White Beach or try relaxing watersports like paraw sailing or riding a crystal kayak in Boracay. Most of these activities can be short, around 10-30 minutes, or longer, depending on your booking preference.

Boracay Land Tour to Beaches & Mangrove

Experience a laid-back day in Boracay with a Boracay land tour to beaches and mangroves, perfect if you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path tourist spots on the island. Your first stop will be at Boracay Keyhole in Boracay Newcoast, known for its stunning turquoise waters and a unique rock formation where you can make a wish by dropping a coin. Next is Puka Beach, an 800-meter stretch of serene white sand surrounded by a tropical forest, ideal for a refreshing dip. 

You can then go to Ilig-Iligan Beach, a fine beach with palm trees and clear blue-green waters for snorkeling. End your day with a visit to Lugutan Mangrove Park, where you can take photos and appreciate nature. This tour will take up to 4 hours.

Where to Go Near Currimao Port (Ilocos Norte)

Ilocos Norte, with its capital in Laoag City, is a province in the northern Philippines celebrated for its cultural heritage and historical landmarks. The Currimao Port, located in the town of Currimao, Ilocos Norte, serves as the international cruise ship port for the province.

Upon disembarking at Currimao Port, Ilocos tours, such as Laoag tours, will take you to attractions that showcase the rich history and scenic beauty of this remarkable province.

Laoag Tour 

Explore the beauty of Laoag City on a day tour packed with top Laoag tourist spots. The Laoag City heritage attractions and sand dunes tour begins at St. William's Cathedral, known for its history and beauty, followed by the unique Sinking Bell Tower. You can also visit Aurora Park, home to the Tobacco Monopoly Monument, a historical landmark. 

Continue to the Malacañang of the North, a residence of the family of former Philippine President Marcos, which has been turned into a museum. You can also visit Paoay Church and Batac Museum before checking out the stunning Ilocos Sand Dunes. For a more fun experience, take a 4x4 ride on the dunes. This Ilocos itinerary will take up to 8 hours.

Where to Go Near Salomague Port (Ilocos Sur)

Ilocos Sur is a province known for its rich cultural heritage and historical charm. Vigan, its capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage City famous for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and traditional houses known as "bahay na bato.” Salomague Port, situated in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, is the main port for cruise liners in the province.

Stepping off at Salomague Port, get ready for a fun trip through Ilocos Sur! Make sure to check out tours in the province, such as Vigan tours, where history comes alive in its cobblestone streets.

Vigan Tour

Explore the most popular attractions in Ilocos Sur with a Vigan city heritage and sightseeing tour. Begin with a kalesa ride (horse-drawn carriage ride) along the famous Calle Crisologo, known for its Spanish-era houses. Pose for photos and learn about the importance of this Vigan tourist spot. You can also visit Syquia Mansion, once the residence of Philippine President Elpidio Quirino, showcasing family paintings and antique furniture. 

Experience pottery making at Pagburnayan, then explore St. Paul Cathedral and Vigan National Museum. Finally, end your day at Baluarte Zoo, home to various Philippine animals. This tour will take up to 4 hours.

Plan Your Shore Excursions Near Philippine Cruise Ports Now!

Explore the different cruise ports of the Philippines, now favored destinations for travelers seeking tropical escapades. Whether you're drawn to history or nature, the attractions that are nearby ports promise a unique experience.

You can immerse yourself in historic sites, discover marine life, enjoy beach sunsets, or take leisurely strolls in charming neighborhoods hassle-free by checking out the best Philippine guided tours and Philippine vacation packages that are near each Philippine port.