Puerto Princesa City
Puerto Princesa City, located in the heart of Palawan Island, is more than just a gateway—it's a destination rich in biodiversity, heritage, and coastal beauty. As the capital of Palawan Island, Puerto Princesa City blends eco-tourism, culture, and urban convenience, making it a perfect base for exploring some of the top attractions in Palawan Island.
From lush forests and limestone karsts to vibrant coral reefs and cultural landmarks, the city offers a wide range of experiences suited for nature lovers, families, and first-time visitors. Whether you're joining Puerto Princesa tours or using the city as a launching point for broader Palawan Island tours, there’s something here for every traveler.
What to Do in Puerto Princesa City
Explore the Underground River
A visit to Puerto Princesa wouldn't be complete without exploring the renowned Underground River. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park or the Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features an 8.2-kilometer navigable underground river flowing beneath a limestone karst landscape.
Travelers can join guided paddle boat tours that reveal stunning rock formations, cathedral-like chambers, and hidden cave ecosystems. This attraction is often the highlight of many Puerto Princesa tour packages.
You can conveniently book this experience through curated Palawan island tour packages to Puerto Princesa City and El Nido Town or through a 5-Day Palawan Island Beach & Nature Package from Manila City, which combines the Underground River with other iconic sites in El Nido town.
Go Island Hopping in Honda Bay
Just a short drive from the city proper is Honda Bay, a collection of small islands with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. The Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour includes stops at popular islands such as Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Luli Island, each offering unique experiences above and below the water.
It’s one of the best ways to explore the coastal beauty of Puerto Princesa and a top choice for those seeking Palawan island hopping tours.
Discover the City’s Cultural Side
Immerse yourself in local culture with a Puerto Princesa City Tour, which includes stops at Plaza Cuartel, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the Palawan Heritage Center, and the Bakers Hill viewpoint. This half-day tour offers insight into the city’s World War II history, art, cuisine, and local crafts.
How to Get There
Daily flights to Puerto Princesa are available from major hubs like the cities of Manila, Cebu, and Clark, making it easily accessible for both local and international travelers. The Puerto Princesa International Airport serves as a key point of entry for exploring Palawan Island. For a seamless arrival, you can arrange Puerto Princesa transfers to your hotel or directly to tour pick-up points for maximum convenience.
Where to Stay
There are numerous Puerto Princesa hotels that cater to every budget—from luxury resorts and eco-lodges to mid-range boutique stays and budget-friendly hostels. Whether you're staying in the city center or by the beach, these accommodations often offer easy access to local tours and excursions.
If you’re planning to explore beyond the city, there are all-in Palawan Island packages and flexible Puerto Princesa tour packages that bundle accommodations, guided tours, meals, and transportation—perfect for hassle-free travel.
Getting Around
While Puerto Princesa City is compact and walkable in parts, many visitors choose to book car rental services or pre-arranged transfers as part of their package for ease of transport, especially when visiting Honda Bay or heading to Sabang for the Underground River.
