Top 10 Christmas Getaways in the Philippines: Where to Celebrate the Holidays in Style (PART 1)
Discover the best holiday destinations in the Philippines where traditions meet festive fun.
Makati’s Ayala Festival of Lights
When you think of summer getaways, the Philippines often makes the list by virtue of its tropical charm and pristine white sand beaches. But when you think of Christmas holiday destinations, the images of Christmas markets in Europe or the glittering lights of New York City might be what usually comes to mind.
What you might not realize is that the Philippines is a great Christmas holiday destination, too! In fact, many Filipinos living or working abroad prefer to come home or visit during the holidays. Traffic jams and soaring travel costs aside, if given the chance, we would move heaven and earth to be homebound come December.
One of the best parts of spending December in the Philippines is that you have a lot to choose from when it comes to deciding what place to visit. Whether you're looking for urban shopping, authentic rural experience, cozy weather or sandy shores, there's something for everyone.
The Discover Philippines team compiled a list of our top 10 Philippine Christmas destinations. This list was the sum of our personal preferences based on experiences and the current buzz in the Philippine tourism landscape. The first part consists of five destinations located in the island of Luzon.
1. Metro Manila: The Ultimate Urban Extravaganza
If you want to visit an urban center where the Christmas spirit is in full force, Metro Manila is the place to be. Metro Manila (or just Manila for simplicity) surely knows how to bring the holiday cheers into a different level. For mainstream shoppers, you have the Greenbelt Malls, the SM Malls, Ayala Malls and other big-name shopping centers you can find. For bargain hunters, you can go to the Binondo-Divisoria or the Greenhills area and lose your way, literally and figuratively.
For those looking for the Christmas festive vibe, Makati’s Ayala Triangle Festival of Lights is a can't-miss spectacle. It's a nightly show of sight and sound where synchronized music and dancing lights turn the place into a magical wonderland. On the other side of EDSA, Bonifacio Global City's (BGC) streets come alive with open-air Christmas markets where you can snag locally made crafts while marveling at the larger-than-life decor that punctuates the holiday ambiance. Looking to the south, the SM Mall of Asia (the largest one in the Philippines and 6th in the world) offers another local favorite: the MOA Night of Lights which consists of a nightly firework display amidst the backdrop of a massive Christmas tree.
For foodies, Christmas in Manila is a feast in itself. It's a given that almost all kinds of authentic and fusion foods can be found in the big shopping centers. But if you are looking for a more adventurous gastronomic experience, skip the mall, hit the neighboring city and town centers and scour their streets.
Chinese New Year in Binondo, Manila, photo by Ralff Nestor Nacor
In Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown, you’ll find holiday Chinese-Filipino delicacies like hopia (pastry filled with bean paste), siopao (steamed bun with fillings), dumplings and delicious pancit (noodle dish), all served with a twist to celebrate the season. Meanwhile, Kapitolyo in Pasig is home to trendy restaurants offering seasonal treats and creative takes on Filipino Christmas classics. Whether you're craving something savory or sweet, Manila’s festive food scene offers something for every palate during the holidays.
2. Tagaytay: Cozy Christmas with Scenic Views
Tagaytay encapsulates the breezy holiday experience. Just a couple hours’ drive south of Manila, this famous tourist destination offers cool weather and scenic views of Taal Volcano, a large caldera in the middle of the Taal Lake. Although considered as the 2nd most active volcano in the Philippines (most active is Mayon in Albay), Taal Volcano's mystic continues to amaze locals and tourists alike.
A family's visit to Tagaytay is not complete without stopping at the Sky Ranch amusement park and experiencing their Christmas-themed offering while partaking of the local delicacies. If you are looking for a spiritual connection, you can attend a Simbang Gabi (dawn mass) at the iconic Pink Sisters Chapel, made famous by its resident praying nuns and the solemnity of the place. After the mass, head over to the food stalls nearby for a warm serving of bibingka (rice cake) and puto bumbong (purple rice delicacy) to complete your Filipino Simbang Gabi experience.
A breathtaking view of Taal Volcano, viewed from one of Tagaytay’s elevated ridges
Tagaytay features many farm-to-table restaurants so make sure you allot time to explore more than one. Head to Sonya's Garden for a sumptuous meal set in a lush greenery. Or visit the popular Bag of Beans for a taste of their rare Barako coffee and a slice of their delicious pies and local offerings.
The Barako coffee, also known as Kapeng Barako or Batangas coffee, is a rare, specialty coffee variety that is grown mainly in the provinces of Batangas and Cavite. And if you are a coffee drinker, it would be remiss on our part not to advise you to buy a lot!
3. Baguio: The Philippines’ Winter Wonderland
Known as the City of Pines, Baguio is a 4-hour drive north of Manila. Nestled high in the Cordillera Mountains, this mountain retreat is the coldest city in the Philippines. With its cool, crisp air and mist-covered mornings, the city transforms into a picturesque place during the Christmas holiday season. The chilly weather adds an undeniable charm, wrapping the place in a cozy, almost mystical vibe that perfectly complements the festive cheer.
Go to Burnham Park and experience the festive vibe with its twinkling lights and horse-drawn carriages decked out for the holidays. The Christmas Village at Baguio Country Club has become a popular destination since its opening in late 2022. It offers visitors a snowy experience, complete with artificial snow, themed displays, and even Santa sightings. The kids - and the young at heart - will delight in the magical atmosphere and the photo-worthy holiday decorations that make this village a must-visit.
A striking Baguio sunset, photo by Bro. Jeff Pioquinto, SJ
Shop for unique Christmas gifts at the Baguio Night Market, where you can find everything from vintage finds to handcrafted items. Get a big discount when you buy in bulk! Immerse in the unique culture of the local Igorot and learn more about their local holiday traditions by heading out to the Tam-Awan Village. The cultural exhibits, traditional huts, and art galleries make this an enriching stop for travelers looking to connect with the heritage of the Cordillera region.
Find time to visit Mines View Park to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of mountain ranges, forest landscapes and the mining town of Itogon. The market across the park is a treasure trove of local crafts, souvenir trinkets and botanical items – ideal finds for those wanting a piece of Baguio to take home.
And of course, no trip to Baguio is complete without a sampling of Good Shepherd’s ube (purple yam) and strawberry jams, lovingly made by the Good Shepherds nun. You can pair it with fresh strawberries from nearby farms or Baguio’s iconic peanut brittle for an irresistible taste of the holidays.
4. Vigan: A Step Back in Time with Holiday Spirit
Vigan, the capital of the Ilocos Sur province in the north, is the only UNESCO World Heritage City in the Philippines. Known for its preserved Hispanic colonial houses, the city’s grid layout becomes even more enchanting during the holidays. Calle Crisologo, with its cobblestone streets and ancestral homes, is adorned with festive lights and parols (Christmas lanterns), casting a magical glow over the historic city. Take a calesa (horse-drawn carriage) ride at night to fully immerse yourself in the romantic and nostalgic ambiance - a perfect way to experience the old-world charm of Vigan during Christmas.
At the heart of the city stands Vigan Cathedral, where Simbang Gabi masses are celebrated with a blend of history and faith. The solemn atmosphere of these dawn masses, paired with the sight of locals coming together in the spirit of the season, is truly heartwarming. After the service, enjoy a taste of Vigan’s culinary heritage with treats like the famous Vigan empanada, a crispy delight filled with meat and veggies, or sinanglao, a comforting bowl of local beef soup perfect for chilly December mornings.
The Calle Crisologo in Vigan, photo by Georgyishere
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the Viva Vigan Lantern Parade, you’re in for a visual feast. This event brings the city to life with a dazzling display of handcrafted lanterns, live performances, and music that showcases the creativity and vibrant culture of the Ilocano people. For Christmas shoppers, Vigan’s artisanal goods and handwoven textiles make for thoughtful gifts with a personal touch.
Vigan during the holidays offers a one-of-a-kind experience - stepping back in time while celebrating the joy and togetherness that make Christmas in the Philippines so special. It’s a destination that captures the magic of the season in every corner, from its historic streets to its festive traditions.
5. San Fernando, Pampanga: The Christmas Capital of the Philippines
If you’re looking for a truly magical Christmas experience, San Fernando, Pampanga, is the place to be. Known as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines, this city is only a 2-hour drive north of Manila. San Fernando is famous for its Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul), a dazzling spectacle that takes holiday lights to a whole new level.
The festival, held annually in December, features massive lanterns - some towering up to 20 feet in height - illuminated with intricate patterns that dance to music in a kaleidoscope of colors. It’s not just a display - it’s a competitive art form where different barangays (neighborhoods) pour their creativity, pride, and craftsmanship into their lanterns, vying for the top spot in this prestigious event.
One of the giant parols at the Lantern Festival, photo by Ramon FVelasquez
Beyond the lanterns, San Fernando is a city steeped in rich cultural tradition, and its food scene is legendary. The Kapampangans are often hailed as the culinary masters of the Philippines, so much so that the Philippine Senate officially declared Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines on December 9th of this year. The Senate Bill was authored by Senator Lito Lapid, a Kampampangan senator.
A visit here during the holidays is a feast for the senses. Their famed sisig, a sizzling dish made from pork, spices, and calamansi (small citrus fruit), is a must-try. Bringhe, a local take on paella made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and an assortment of meats, is another culinary treasure that pairs perfectly with the festive season. And don’t miss tamales (Kapampangan bobotu), a savory rice cake wrapped in banana leaves, packed with layers of flavor from coconut milk, peanuts, and anise.
If you’re craving some sweets, try their leche flan - a creamy, caramel-laden creation that melts in your mouth. Turrones de casoy, thin wafers filled with sweet cashew nougat, make for the perfect snack or gift to bring back home. Another sweet treat to try is sans rival, a decadent dessert of buttery layers and chopped cashews that’s as rich as it is unforgettable.
As we wrap up our festive journey through some of the Philippines’ most captivating Christmas destinations, the holiday magic doesn’t stop here. In the second part, we’ll explore the other top five Christmas holiday attractions that feature delicious culinary ride, heritage sites, thrilling adventures, and the sun-kissed allure of sand and sea.
Stay tuned!