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With a plethora of things to do in Florence and considered one of the important cultural and historical hubs of Italy it’s easy to see why so many travelers flock to this city. what

Florence, or Firenze in Italian, is the quintessential Italian riverside city filled with some of the countries best sights and foods. It’s famed for world-class cuisine, museums, classic works of art, and the surrounding Tuscan countryside. The architecture in Florence pulls you in and begs for you to get lost in its historic heart.

Florence is known for being the birthplace of the Renaissance period and packed full of history. When you walk the narrow cobbled stone streets it appears as if little has changed with marble basilicas, dark chapels, gas lanterns, and enchanting frescos. Florence is a located in the central-north of Italy known as Tuscany, halfway between the landlocked country of San Marino and the world’s most iconic leaning structure, Pisa.

When many think of Italy, it’s generally the Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa and the canals of Venice along with delicious treats of gelato, pizza and pasta and while that’s generally a true statement, places like Florence are becoming more and more popular to those wanting to see the other side of Italy.

Florence out of all the places I visited in Italy had the most charm about it with a constant relaxed vibe from the river Arno to the gardens of Boboli and beyond. This Italian city is easily a highlight of any trip to Italy!

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11.) Eat Your Way Through Tuscany

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1.) Wander Through Boboli Gardens

Giardino di Boboli or The Boboli Gardens tops the list of the most impressive gardens I have visited anywhere in Europe and I am generally not fond of heavily mowed lawns, manicured hedges, and water fountains, but the caretakers of The Boboli Gardens do an exquisite job in maintaining an extremely large area of land to such perfection.

I was born and raised on a farm, 500 kilometers from the closest city and often feel overwhelmed by the chaos of cities, to cope I often seek out the botanical gardens for peace and quiet. For me, it takes the top spot for what to do in Florence.

Located behind the Palazzo Pitti a grand Rennaisance palace that was built in 1458. The historic gardens date back to the 16th century and are considered the first of the grand Italian gardens famed for the century.

There is a certain charm that lay over Giardino di Boboli that reminds of the movie ‘The Secret Garden’. Giardino di Boboli is also a great place to watch the sunset over The Arno River as the last rays of light hit Piazza Del Duomo.

Price: €10 Full / €5 Reduced (Summer March 1st – October 31st) €6 Full/ €3 Reduced (Winter November 1st – February 28th)

Hours: Open every day from 8:15 a.m. — Closing times vary from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Location: Plaza Piti

2.) Gaze Upon Duomo di Firenze (Florence Cathedral)

Florence’s most famous building, Piazza Del Duomo

The beating heart of Florence has to be Piazza Del Duomo and the Florence Cathedral. The cathedral is one of the world’s largest cathedrals built in the late 12th century and is an icon of Florence and visible throughout the city.

The interior of the Duomo is fascinating the dome was the largest in the world until the modern era with new construction materials. is great seeing from the inside with ancient monuments and artifacts, this cathedral is best seen from various vantage points throughout Florence especially during sunset and sunrise as the roof and dome of the cathedral turns a bright orange and red which dominates the city landscape.

If you want to explore the cathedral, you might want to do so early as possible to avoid the lengthy wait times. Entry into the cathedral is free; however, if you wish to visit the crypt dating back to the 15th century, the dome, baptistery, and the museum are all combined into the cumulative ticket for €18. If you’re for a more in-depth experience you can book a guided tour along with an expedited ticket to avoid the lines here

Price: Free — €18 Combined Ticket (Entry to crypt, baptistery, dome, and museum)

Hours: Everyday 8:30 a.m. — 7:00 p.m. (Saturday until 5:40 p.m.)

Location: Duomo di Firenze

Book Your Guide for the Cathedral!

3.) Explore the Arno River

Exploring the Arno River

The waterways of Europe were the original highways and sources of the trade so many classic European cities and towns are based along waterways. Florence sits on the Arno River and it is the central point of the city. A walk along the central waterway is an awesome way to take the historic city.

A walk here is wonderful for photographs of Florence and provides great viewpoints of the famed Ponte Vecchio Bridge. The Arno is a classic Italian river with an array of bridges some few hundred meters apart meaning you can walk from one side to the other with ease to catch views from a different perspective.

Quick fact: if you follow The River Arno for long enough, it will lead almost directly to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Mediterranean!

4.) Cross the Ponte Vecchio Bridge

Florence’s most famous bridge

Just as the rivers of cities were vital lifelines of cities so were the bridges. With its long history, Italy is filled with famed bridges such as the Rialto Bridge of Venice and Ponte Vecchio of Firenze. The Arno River has more than one bridge that crosses its flow yet none of those bridges hold more attention that the famed Ponte Vecchio.

The original bridge was constructed by the Romans and dates back millennia, but the current bridge dates were constructed in 1345 after several versions were swept away in floods. Its historical significance was even spared by Hitler as the Germans destroyed all the bridges in the region during their retreat in 1945, except for the bridge under explicit instructions.

Over the centuries the Ponte Vecchio has been home to a number of shops that line the bridge. Originally the shop fronts were occupied by butchers who would cut and chop up meat to sell while discarding the scraps into The Arno. Now, the shops are occupied by jewelers and art dealers. Each storefront has its own distinct color which can be viewed from standing upon the Ponte Santa Trinita Bridge or roads running adjacent to The Arno River.

At one point in time, Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge to connect the north and south sides of the river and a daily commute past the butcher storefronts wasn’t exactly an ideal thing to do, especially early in the morning. During the rule of The Medici, they ordered that jewelry stores replace the butchers and the throwing of the meat into The Arno be ceased.

Location: Ponte Vecchio Bridge

5.) Enjoy the view from Piazzale Michelangelo

Florence has few viewpoints as good as the lookout high about the banks of the Arno River; however, getting there is a bit of a burner on the calves or if you prefer, take a bike or Vespa to the top as the views are the best anywhere in Florence.

If you know what Florence looks like, it was probably taken from Piazzale Michelangelo. Getting that epic shot of the city can be tricky due to it being one of the most photographed places in Italy so get there extra early for sunrise shots or early for sunset shots. One of our favorite times to photograph in busy spots is what is commonly referred to as the blue hour just after sunset as most photographers leave once the sun drops below the horizon. If you’re a photographer wondering what to do in Florence at sunset this is a solid photo spot.

Location: Piazzale Michelangelo

6.) Climb the Tower at Palazzo Vecchio

Walking the streets of Florence

One of the cool things about Florence is that most of its main tourist attractions are within 10 minutes walking distance of one another and if you go to the famous lookout of Giardino del Bardini, you will see just how close everything is together.

The Palazzo Vecchio is the only other structure in Florence that will give the Piazza del Duomo a run for its money in size. Like most cathedrals and churches in Italy and Florence, the Palazzo Vecchio is one of the oldest and dates back to the late 12th century.

What you will notice about Palazzo Vecchio is its castle-like tower or torre d’Arnolfo which stands almost as tall as the dome on Duomo. The tower itself is nearly the height of a football field, 94 meters to be exact which can be climbed from the inside revealing a spectacle of views once at the top.

If you are keen to take the narrow staircase to the top of the tower, make sure to get there early as crowds build to lengthy ques early.

Price: €14 Full / €12 Reduced Museum & Tower

Hours: Everyday 8:30 a.m. — 7:00 p.m. (Saturday until 5:40 p.m.)

Location: Palazzo Vecchio

7.) Explore the Palazzo Pitti

If you are planning to walk around the manicured gardens of Boboli, be sure to spend an hour or so discovering some of Florence’s most delicate treasures and artifacts in Palazzo Pitti. The palace and gardens at one point belonged to the Medici Family who are credited with the birth of the Rennaisance.

Expect to see a lot of old Renaissance era paintings framed with gold to jewels that were worn by the Medici family. Most notable are a large collection of Raphael paintings and

When I visited Palazzo Pitti, it was not as busy as Duomo or Vecchio so it doesn’t matter what time you arrive but a quick tip if you are traveling on a budget, buy your ticket before 9 am to save 50% on the normal price! Also, it’s important to note that the gardens and palace are separate tickets.

Price: €16 Full / €8 Reduced (Summer March 1st – October 31st) €10 Full/ €5 Reduced (Winter November 1st – February 28th)

Hours: Open every day from 8:15 a.m. — Closing times vary from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Location: Plaza Piti

8.) Scoppio Del Carro – Exploding Cart of Fireworks

During Easter, a tradition lives strong and vibrant with the annual Scoppio Del Carro or explosion of the cart which basically sees a cart jam-packed full with fireworks set alight in a glorious display of whizzing and bangs, you might want to bring ear and eye protection, things get crazy.

If you’re interested in attending the festival Visit Florence has a great post with the details and history of the festival here.

Date: Easter Sunday. The procession starts at 10:00 a.m. and fireworks begin at 11:00 a.m.

Location: Piazza Del Duomo (Between baptistery and cathedral)

Cost: Free (expect large crowds)

9.) Admire David by Michelangelo

France has the Mona Lisa, Australia has the Big Banana and Nepal has Mount Everest but one thing these countries do not possess is a chiselled man standing in a glorious pose known to Florence as David.

David is possibly the most famous sculpture of all time now and long into the future. Why go and see David? David was made from a single piece of marble by a 29-year-old way back in 1504 to which it once stood outside in the streets of Florence.

Today David by Michelangelo can be seen (still posing) at the Galleria dell Accademia on the southern side of The Arno River.

Price: €12 Full / €2 Reduced (+€4 prebooking fee)

Hours: Closed on Monday. Open from 8:15 a.m. – 6:50 p.m.

Location: Galleria dell’Accamdemia

Fast Track Tickets to the Galleria

10.) See Florence at Night

Most things at night look that little bit better and seeing Florence turn on its lights is truly incredible.

Florence’s streets at night especially in the warmer months have a certain vibe about it making it ideal to get out and see some of Florence’s cathedrals and cobble stoned streets under a shade of orange and yellow.

One of the best night time scenes is Florence’s Piazza Del Duomo shrouded in a bright array of lights which is best observed from up close or if you fancy going for a night stroll, head to the famous lookout point at Giardino del Bardini, high above the river Arno.

11.) Eat Your Way Through Tuscany

Without a doubt, Italy has the best cuisine on earth. Italy’s influence on the rest of the world comes in the form of food. No matter which town or city you go to in the world, Italian food is available and although you might think it’s good, it’s always better when it’s eaten in the country of origin.

Each region in Italy has its own delicacy and seasonal produce which can be found at local restaurants and market stalls. These small locally run and locally grown stalls provide you with the best taste of Florence. Buying from a market stall is going to save you loads if you are traveling on a budget or for a longer period of time.

I fratellini is all about the Panini, a marvelous creation often over indulged by myself and I am sure a lot of others.  A Panini is a toasted sandwich with tomato, fresh basil and melted mozzarella cheese.

Nerbone is one of a few market stalls remaining in Florence since the 18th century and the reason it continues to thrive is through its tasty local produce and a specialty which can make tongues turn, Tripe.

For those who are hungry one of Florence’s most notable dishes is the Bistecca alla fiorentine. It’s a large porterhouse steak, or T-Bone, that is perfectly seared rare to medium rare over a wood fire. The steaks are generally massive and meant to be shared with the table like many dishes in Italy — family style.

12.) Live out Under the Tuscan Sun

Views like this are only a short drive from Florence

Florence is situated in one of the most breathtaking countryside’s in Italy known as Tuscany. It’s easily the most well-known region of Italy and famed for its wine and food featured in a countless number of films and books.

Tuscany is known for rolling green hills and lush farmlands that produce some of the best produce anywhere in Italy. One of the best ways to explore Tuscany is to base yourself in Florence and do day trips around the region.

Tuscany is one of the most photogenic regions in Europe but to its equal is the local produce ranging from olives, grapes, salami, beef, and cheese or basically my food pyramid.

If you en-route to Pisa or just want a taste of Tuscany while staying in Florence, San Miniato is the place to be with 360 degree views of beautiful farmland, the Arno River as it flows to the Mediterranean and an opportunity to sample Tuscany’s finest produces.

Book A Tour Around Tuscany

13.) Witness a Game of Italian Football

Italy has some of the most talented football players and teams in the world and pretty much whoever you talk to in the streets of Florence will be a fan or plays the world game.

Florence over the past few years has had great success with their local team, ACF Fiorentina who play in the prestigious Serie A. When rival teams roll into town, the whole town talks football especially when rivals Juventus are in town.

If you happen to be in Florence during one of their games, don’t miss this epic opportunity to attend alongside 43,000 football fanatics! Stadio Artemio Franchi isn’t the biggest of stadiums in Italy, but it stands out with a gorgeous Tuscany backdrop dotted amongst the evergreen hills while holding a rich history through World Cup tournaments to Madonna performing live!

Location: Artemio Franchi Stadium

14.) Hire a Vespa

This is probably the most Italian thing you can do in Italy, ride a Vespa otherwise known as a scooter.

If you don’t fancy peddling a bike around the cobble stoned streets, Vespa’s are another alternative and allow you to cover more ground than you would on a bike.

With there being so much to do in Florence, a Vespa can take you from the old town to the vineyards of Florence within 15 to 20 minutes making it a better option than hiring a car or going on a bus tour.

Make sure to hire a helmet when collecting your Vespa, cobble stoned roads are common and can be rough on the suspension.

15.) Learn About Art at the Uffizi Galleria

As you may have already noticed reading this article, Florence is home to some of the most treasured paintings from the Renaissance era.

The Uffizi Gallery, by all means, remains the most popular of galleries in Florence where paintings dating back to the 17th century are hung for all to see. By far the highlight of Uffizi is the works of Leonardo Di Vinci.

Like most cathedrals and galleries in Florence, Uffizi tops the list as the busiest so purchase your ticket well in advance or online to avoid Florence’s endless queues.

Price: €20 Full / €10 Reduced (Summer March 1st – October 31st) €12 Full/ €6 Reduced (Winter November 1st – February 28th)

Hours: Closed on Monday. Open from 8:15 a.m. – 6:50 p.m.

Location: Uffizi Gallery

Timed Ticket to Avoid Lines

Best Time to go to Florence?

Italy is seriously perfect all year round which is amazing! With the mountainous Alps to the north of Italy and the Mediterranean to the south, Florence is situated in the most idyllic places, Tuscany.

Although Florence experiences perfect summer days, things can get very overcrowded and that’s not a good thing if you have to wait in line to enter a museum. Summer days are perfect for exploring Tuscany and its coastal areas.

For a more mellow experience, going in September to late October means a cooler climate with fewer crowds as prices drop for accommodation and tours.

How to Get around Florence?

Florence isn’t the biggest city in Italy and it’s also not the busiest making it a few options viable for freedom of exploration. I am a big fan of walking around cities and often throughout Europe, there will be one or two companies that have walking tours!

Walking tours are a fantastic way of learning about the city’s history, food, people and culture and the tour guides are awesome as well! Walking tours are generally cheap and you can spend anywhere from 1 hour to a whole day tour.

By far my favorite thing to do is hiring a bike which is so easy in European countries. Most hotels and backpackers have bikes readily available for hire for as little as 10 Euros. If you decide to hire a bike, be sure to get a bike lock as bikes often go missing if left unattended. 

Villa Cora, Florence

With all of the bells and whistles of a modern hotel, this new-comer on the Italian hotel scene places guests in their very own Tuscan dreams. The centerpiece here the 19th-century villa constructed by Baron Oppenheim, one of the principal financiers of the Suez Canal.

The villa is Italian decadence with parquet floors, monstrous mirrors, crystal chandeliers and a whole series of reception rooms. Guest at Villa Cora will not have to worry about being pampered because the hotel also houses one of the best spas in Florence offering a wide range of services.

The services and amenities do not stop there with a free shuttle bus that will pick you up anywhere in the city and an outdoor heated pool open year round. In the summer, the rooftop buzzes with guests and outside visitors at the champagne bar there to enjoy the warm Tuscan evenings.

Agoda.com

Booking.com

Hotels.com

Throw Everything You Know About Italian Food Out the Window

Spaghetti bolognese is not everywhere and cannolis are only popular in Sicily, also you will never ever see pepperoni. Instead, you will find the real Italian staples like bruschetta al pomodoro, delicious prosciutto layering a pizza, and spaghetti alla carbonara instead of fettucini alfredo. And cheese!

Oh, don’t even get me started on the cheese in Italy. It’s delicious and fresh and nothing in your average supermarkets will ever compare. I worked at the American restaurant food chain Carrabba’s Italian Grill for 4 years. Trust me, the “Italian” food we think we know doesn’t even compare.

There is likely no region more famed for its food than Tuscany.

“Ciao,” “Grazie,” and “Non-Capisco” will go a long way

The Italians are extremely friendly and polite people, but I still found that learning a few words in their language will get you a long way. It’s easy too! “Ciao” can be used for hello and goodbye, “Grazie,” is used everywhere to give thanks, and when a local mistakenly make you out for an Italian just simply say “Non-Capisco” (I don’t understand).

Read my full list of what to pack for Italy here.

Choose Your Gelato Wisely

There is good gelato and crap gelato – even in Italy. Read your reviews online, and be sure to test out a few different shops. When you find the best, you will know. Our favorite gelato in Italy was hands down in Florence and was called Gelateria Della Passera.

How to travel around Italy?

Getting to Italy has never been cheaper with budget airlines such as RyanAir operating out of many Italian cities. If you are flying from a different continent the main hubs are Rome, Florence, and Milan. Once in Italy, the best way to get around is via train.

For long-distance routes it’s best to book beforehand with Trenitalia and reserve a seat. If you are traveling shorter distances it’s also possible to show up at the train station a buy a ticket there. Or get around Europe with a Eurail.

We’ve rented a car numerous times in Italy and it’s a great way to get around on your own schedule. An automatic rental car can go for as low €15 a day in the low season up to €45 a day in the higher seasons and will ensure you get to all the best places in Italy.

Knowing how to drive a manual car will often get you cheaper rates in Europe. If you’re traveling as a group it is worth your while to hire a car for your trip. Our best experiences have been with SiXT. Check car rental prices here.

Travel Water Bottle

Plastic pollution is a problem around the world so it’s best not to contribute to the problem buying plastic water bottles everywhere – plus the water from the taps here is perfectly safe to drink. We’ve shifted to using an insulated aluminum water bottle as it handles the hot sun well. However, we also love filtered water bottles in areas we’re uncertain of the water supply. Read more about favorite water bottle for travel in our post.

Sun Hat

It gets sunny in Italy, and unless you’re walking around museums you will be outside most of the day. Make sure to protect your face with a nice sun hat.

Buy a Sun Hat

Italian Guidebook

We love to have a physical guidebook when traveling. We spend enough time attached to our phones in everyday life and planning our trips. Once we reach a destination like Italy we put the phone away and pick up a guidebook to help with our trip.

Lonely Planet — Italy

Read: What to Pack for Italy!

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About the Author

Calumn Hockey

G’day! My name is Calumn Hockey and I am a keen adventurer, traveler, and photographer from Bowraville, Australia. I have a huge passion for the mountains of the Himalaya in Nepal to the Southern Alps of New Zealand while being one who loves to become immersed in local culture. Over the past few years, I have been fortunate enough to travel to some pretty epic locations such as Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Nepal, and South East Asia. I might not have a high tally of countries under my belt but there is nothing better than exploring somewhere you love in depth and becoming connected with the sights and sounds. Keen to follow my adventures? Follow me on @CalumnHockey

Malapascua is one of the smallest inhabited island in the Philippines. It only measures 2.5 by 1 kilometer. Being a cleaning station for thresher sharks and manta rays and a home to diverse coral species, Malapascua became a famous dive site. The island is also a host to multiple white-sand beaches and interesting rock formations.

Malapascua, by the way, floats 6.8 kilometers northeast of Cebu island.

Malapascua’s northern strip, Langub Beach

I’ve been receiving recommendations to see Malapascua since I moved to Cebu. Hence, when I finally got a chance, I boarded a bus off to Maya port, where Malapascua-bound boats are waiting to convey passengers.

The trip was completely random. I decided to visit the island one Friday night, and then I was on the island immediately the morning after that. Like most of my trips, I traveled alone. It’s really hard to drag someone else on random trip, anyway.

In the afternoon, when the sun’s heat no longer pains, children gather on its stunning beachfront to play. They witness such awesome sunset everyday, and for them, it’s just ordinary. But for me, it’s phenomenal. I am always amazed, though I grew in a village facing the sunset.

Always a beautiful sunset

The island is powered with a generator set where most of the consumption go to the hotel operators. The street lights in tourist areas are battery-powered and charged using solar panels on top of each posts. The residential areas are dark at night, it seems that the solar-powered lamp posts did not reach the inner section of the island.

Before the bright sunrise, fishermen cast their nets and rods on the shallow sea. A bounty catch would mean a feast.

If you want to witness the beauty of Malapascua with your own eyes, the guide below may be useful to you.

Kuala Lumpur.

You may also opt to fly to Manila, wherein there are more international flights available, and then transfer to a flight to Cebu.

If you are already within the Philippines, commercial flights to Cebu are also available from Clark, Legazpi, Caticlan (Boracay), Puerto Princesa, Kalibo, Iloilo, Davao, General Santos, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Tacloban, Dumaguete, Pagadian, Siargao, Camiguin, and Butuan.

Ferries, such as TransAsia Shipping Lines, are also available from almost any point within the Visayas, northern Mindanao, southern Luzon, and even Manila.

From Cebu’s North Bus Terminal, hop on a bus (or passenger van) to Maya Port, Daanbantayan. The bus will take you directly to Barangay Maya’s newest seaport. The fare is ₱200.

From Maya port, board a passenger outrigger boat to Malapascua. There is a trip every 30 minutes from 06:00AM to 03:00PM. During peak season, this may extend to 04:30PM. Note that some schedule will be cancelled if the minimum 15 passenger requirement is not met. The fare is ₱100 per way. Students and elderly do have their own respective discounts.

If you are a big group and does not want to wait for other passengers, you can charter a boat for ₱1,500.

Follow the guide in reverse when you return from Malapascua to Cebu City, and then to your onward destination.

If you are coming from Bantayan Island, return to Hagnaya Port, and then hop on a bus to Bogo City. From Bogo bus terminal, transfer to another bus bound for Maya Port.

From Camotes Island, take a ferry to Danao. At the highway just outside Danao Port, hop on a bus to Maya port.

If you are coming from Carnaza Island, hop on an outrigger boat bound for Tapilon, and then take a tricycle or Bus to Maya Port. From there, you can transfer to another boat to Malapascua.

If you are coming from Kinatarcan Island, return to Daanbantayan, and then take a bus to Maya Port.

An abandoned resort in Bantigue Cove, northeast of Malapascua

Hippocampus Beach and Dive Resort

Fronting Hippocampus is a stretch Malapascua’s famed Bounty beach. Rooms are of native design—made mostly of hardwood, nipa roofing, and bamboo—giving you full Filipino hospitality and experience.

Contact number: +63 917 869 1307

Malapascua Legend Water Sports and Resort

Also fronting Bounty beach, Malapascua Legend Water Sports and Resort offers every guests utmost comfort and great accessibility. The resort has a pool, a restaurant, and a dive center.

Contact number: +63 (32) 406 8384 Email: [email protected]

Ocean Vida Resort

Sitting beside Malapascua Legend Water Sports and Resort is Ocean Vida Resort offering stunning beachfront accommodations with own terrace.

Contact number: +63 977 469 4840 Email: [email protected]

Blue Corals Beach Resort

Blue Corals Beach Resort seats on the rocks at the western end of Bounty beach. The view is awesome, so with the beachfront.

Contact numbers: +63 917 627 2941 | +63 917 627 2935 Email: [email protected]

Cocobana Beach Resort

Cocobana Beach Resort offers elegant-looking, air-conditioned native cabanas fronting bounty beach. The resort also offers trips to Kalanggaman Island and other dive tours.

Contact numbers: +63 915 920 0011 | +63 917 328 0029

An island hopping stop: Free-diving in Malapacua’s Coral Garden

If you are on a shoestring budget, the following option may fit.

Malapascua Budget Inn

Malapascua budget Inn is TripAdvisor’s number 1 hostel in Malapascua Island. Dorm rooms start at ₱400 per bed while a double room starts at ₱2,000. A/C are available in all room. JR, the hostel owner, is very accommodating and he can organize special trips for you.

Just note that the hostel usually go fully booked during summer. Make sure you have secured your accommodation in advance.

Online booking: www.exploremalapascua.com.ph Contact number: +63 977 820 3111 Email: [email protected]

Most guests travel to Malapascua to see the thresher sharks and its impressive underwater communities. Almost all premium hotels in Malapascua offers dive tours. They have in-house PADI-certified dive centers manned with competent divers and instructors.

For non-divers, you can do the following:

Island hopping

Island hopping in Malapascua has three stops, namely; Dakit-dakit, Coral Garden, and Japanese Shipwreck.

Dakit-dakit islet is a snorkeling site, however, it seemed that the strongest typhoon that struck the island in 2013 flushed away all the living marine creatures beneath it. There are signs of blooming life though, as the corals and fishes started to return and recover.

Coral Garden offers stunning underwater ecosystem. The area is protected and fishing is banned. Bantay-Dagat personnel regularly patrol the area.

The sunken Japanese ship could give you an eerie feel. Only the frame is visible, though. Fish and corals inhabit the wreck.

A portion of the Japanese shipwreck off the cost of Malapascua

For the 360-degree island hopping tours, you may contact James or Jonas at +63 935 978 5636. Tour fee start at  ₱350/head for a minimum of three in a group.

Kuya Jun, my boatman that time, asked ₱500 for the island tour. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have any number to share. You may look for him when you arrive in the island.

You can try cliff jumping if you have the guts. I’ve seen only locals doing the daredevil jump, mostly kids. My boatman discouraged me to because it was low tide and my weight could get me injuries. And so, I listened.

Cliff diving, would you dare?

Sunset Watching

Anticipate a stunning sunset everyday. Standby at Bounty beach and witness how the sun beautifully disappears the horizon, changing the tint of the sky.

Always keep your ears wide open when you happen to sat down with locals. They tell interesting stories and some even have odd insights. Join them when they go fishing, asked questions, and make acquaintance for you to fully understand the island life.

Kalanggaman Island Day Tour

Kalanggaman Island is part of the things you can do in Malapascua, but you can join a day tour to the island off the coast of Palompon, Leyte. Travel time for one way is approximately 3 hours.

Sipalay was a long ride from Cebu City. I had to wake up around one at dawn to hop on the 2AM bus that travels to the southern tip of Cebu Island, and then catch the earliest ferry ride to Dumaguete. Despite leaving early, it was already 5PM when I reached Sipalay City proper. That included my 2-hour stopover at our humble abode in Siaton.

I actually celebrated my birthday on the road. Solitary and hungry. Because of the long trip, busy holiday traffic, and jam-packed terminals, I skipped some meals just to keep my travel arrangements and schedule.

A picturesque scenery in Sipalay

Verdant karst massifs dot the city edges forming a photogenic conglomeration of land masses. Surrounding these mounds are clear and calm aquamarine waters that are perfect for kayaking activities.

Sipalay is also a home to awesome ivory and white strips, such as Punta Ballo Beach, Campoquino Bay, and Sugar Beach. All these beaches are perfect spots to grace beautiful sunsets.

Striking a pose at the makeshift bamboo bridge in Tinagong Dagat

Furthermore, the beauty of Sipalay is not limited to what is readily visible at a normal vantage point. When you dive deep below its seas, wonderful underwater communities awaits to give you an awe.

Apo Island, return to Barangay Malatapay and then wait for a bus to either Bayawan or Dumaguete City.

From Cebu City, the easiest way is to take a bus to Liloan, Santander, embark on a ferry to Sibulan, and then hop on a multicab (jeepney) to Dumaguete.

By the way, there’s an island that sounds like Sipalay. You may also check Sipaway, also in Negros Occidental.

Easy Diving and Beach Resort. It is a 5- or 6-day diving experience to the famed dive spots in the Visayas, such as Apo, Sumilon, Pescador, Balicasag, Panglao, and Sunken Islands. Depending on the package you book, your accommodation will be at the nearest resort or on the deck of the DiveSafari boat.

However, you must be a certified diver to join the tour. If you need one, Easy Diving and Beach Resort has in-house dive center for your PADI training and certification needs. The resort has over 40 dive spots on its list including the ones in Sipalay.

2. Tinagong Dagat

Tinagong-dagat offers a stunning view of the island clusters at the south of Sipalay City proper. The green mounds rising from the turquoise deep creates a complementing charm to the waters around it.

Tinagong Dagat

Since the property is operated by private individuals, the resort standing on it collects ₱30 as entrance or viewing fee.

3. Campoquino Bay

Campoquino is a gorgeous strip that offers spacious space for beach bummers and good shade for campers.

Hi-jo Beach Resort, a budget resort in Sipalay, is the closest accommodation option.

4. Danjugan Island (Must-Do)

Danjugan Island is not located within the jurisdiction of Sipalay. However, the boat station to the island is just 20 minutes away from the city. So when you visit Sipalay, it would be perfect to include Danjugan in your itinerary.

Danjugan Island is actually a protected marine sanctuary which provides asylum to a veritable cornucopia of wildlife species. The island operates under the care and supervision of the Philippine Reef and Rain Forest Conservation Foundation, Inc. or PRRFCFI.

Moray Lagoon in Danjugan Island

Aside from the wildlife encounter, you can make the most of your visit by checking its five lagoons, four white beach strips, and a number of makeshift watch towers.

5. Punta Ballo Beach

Punta Ballo is one of the most amazing place to grace the sunset in Sipalay. The sand is ivory on a gloomy day but is white under a bright sunlight.

Punta Ballo beach in front of Easy Diving and Beach Resort

Not far from the beach are remarkable reefs which are homes to colourful marine life.

6. Sugar Beach

Sugar beach is another gorgeous strip in Sipalay and is a home to a number of resorts that host regular beach parties and other gimmicks.

7. Punta Ballo Parrot Farm

Punta Ballo Parrot Farm is located within the Easy Diving Resort complex. Meet and greet with their collections of parrots and hornbills. The farm is a licensed exotic birds breeder and conservationist. It serves as a satellite conservation site of Talarak Foundation.

Punta Ballo Parrot Farm’s love birds

8. Poblacion Beach and Sipalay Food Park

Poblacion Beach is the wide strip on the west edge of the city proper. It is the most accessible beach of the city.

Sipalay Food Park is one of the best spot to taste the local food. Seating adjacent to Poblacion beach, getting there is pretty easy.

Sipalay Food Park

Food stalls start grilling at sundown. Chicken inasal and barbecue are usual mainstays.

Live bands and karaoke are also available.

9. Perth Paradise Resort Infinity Pool

The overlooking scenery at the infinity pool of Perth Paradise Resort is undeniably one of the most picturesque spot in Sipalay.

If you are not a guest, you can access the infinity pool with a fee. Viewing will cost you ₱80/pax. If you can to take a dip to its famed pool, you have to shell an additional ₱100/pax.

A view from the infinity pool of Pert Paradise Resort

10. Learn the Art of Archery with Archery-Asia

Learn the art of archery at Archery-Asia Sipalay. If it is your first time, you will be trained with the basics and practice your first arrow release at their target range.

Afterwards, you will be brought to the parkour course to test what you have learned. The parkour has 23 stops and each stops has inanimate targets for you to shoot.

Archery-Asia Sipalay target range

Easy Diving Beach Resort offers premium accommodations. It seats on a sloped terrain along Punta Ballo Beach. The resorts offers a stunning sunset view, a gorgeous beachfront, and a scenic neighborhood. Standard fan starts ₱1,600 for two while the standard airconditioned room starts at ₱1,950 for two.

Tinagong Dagat Island Resort seats on a cliff that is overlooking a charmed setting. An overnight stay at Tinagong Dagat for two individuals starts at ₱1,200.

Perth Paradise Resort is nestled at one of Sipalay’s most picturesque scenery. Peak season rate for a standard room that can accommodate two individuals will cost you ₱2,000 while the cabana room with two single beds and fan starts at ₱1,000. Family rooms are also available.

Artistic Diving Resort seats at an amazing beachfront of Barangay Puntaballo. Room rates start at ₱1800.

Other places to stay in Sipalay are:

Jamont Hotel, Manna Pension House, and Tourism Lodging Center within the city proper;

Drift Wood Village, Takatuka Lodge, Big Bamboo Beach Resort, and Sulu Sunset Beach Resort along Sugar Beach; and

C View Haven, Hi-jo Beach Resort and Nataasan Beach Resort at the city’s south.

That elusive photo chasing a sardine run, that priced selfie with a marine testudine, and that noteworthy beach camp gracing the sunset are just few of the expectations listed on every Moalboal goer.

Moalboal, a once sleepy town seating 90 kilometers southwest of Cebu City, offers a laid-back vibe. Stunning white strips adorn its edges, where clear and calm ripples regularly wash off the shore.

Panagsama Beach, Moalboal

Beneath are unassuming underwater wonders. Sea turtles are frequently seen feeding on seaweeds, not minding the snorkelers hovering over as they search for nutrition.

A bit further is a conglomeration of coral blooms, resembling an underwater meadow. Surrounding these stationary creatures are fishes of different colors, vividness, and stripes. And just sneaking around are invertebrates of different shapes and sizes.

For daredevil swimmers who are unafraid of the blue, a plethora of marine swimmers might greet you. A sardine run regularly graces near the edge of the abyss.

Turtles regularly swim around the water of Panagsama

Kawasan Falls or from the canyoneering area, return to the highway, and then wait for a bus to Cebu City. Moalboal is less than an hour away.

If you visit Moalboal after your waterfall hopping in Samboan, return to the highway, and then hop on a Cebu-bound bus.

Cliff jumping at Pescador Island

Via Dumaguete (Sibulan-Liloan)

From Manila or Cebu, you may take a flight to Dumaguete [DGT]. Take a Sibulan-bound multicab from the highway just outside the airport. Walk towards Sibulan Ferry Terminal, and then board a fast craft to Liloan (fare ₱62).

From Liloan, hop on a trike or habal-habal to Bato Terminal (fare ₱25). From Bato Terminal, board a Ceres Bus to Cebu via Barili, and then get off at Moalboal bus stop.

Via Dumaguete (Tampi-Bato)

From Manila or Cebu, you may take a flight to Dumaguete [DGT]. Take any Northbound-bus from the highway just outside the airport and get off at Tampi Port. You can hop on any bus to Mabinay, Tanjay, Bais, Manjuyod, or Canlaon.

Take a Ro-Ro boat or Ferry to Bato. Walk towards to Bato Terminal from Bato Port, and then board a bus to Moalboal.

Via Oslob

Take a bus to Bato Terminal, and then transfer to a Cebu-bound bus with via Barili route.

Corals beneath the Water of Panagsama Beach

Beach Camps along Basdaku Whitebeach Moalboal

If the beach camp is not among your options, you may choose from the list below:

Places to stay in Basdiot (Panagsama Beach)

Turtle Bay Dive Resort – Turtle Bay Dive Resort is a premium accommodation near Panagsama Beach. Its location is quite isolated, thus giving the resort guests an exclusive feel. A short beach strip fronting it is exclusive for those who are checked in. Turtle Bay is also manned with PADI-certified instructors for your diving needs. The well-landscaped resort also houses a nice pool. Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/TurtleBay

Turtle Bay Dive Resort, a premium accommodation in Moalboal

Quo Vadis Dive Resort – Quo Vadis is located along Panagsama beach, and is pretty accessible to restaurants and PADI-Certified dive centers in Moalboal. Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/QuoVadis

Marcosas Cottages Resort – Marcosas offers rooms and suites equipped with amenities that cater utmost comfort. Being located along Panagsama Beach, the resort has easy access to food and entertainment spots. It has a nice pool too. Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/Marcosas

Dacozy Beach Resort – Dacozy Beach Resort features a pool, furnished rooms, and easy access to Panagsama beach. Food spots and dive centers are also walking-distance away. Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/Dacozy

Cabana Beach Club Resort – Cabana, aside from its comfortable and cozy beachfront accommodation, the resort is also the closest spot to Moalboal’s main attraction, the sardine run. A room for two starts at ₱3,000, while the suites for three starts at ₱4,000.

Marina Village – Marina Village is the sister resort of Cabana Beach Club catering the mid-range market. If you are checked in at Marina Village, you can use and access the facilities of Cabana.

Places to stay in Basdaku

HK Beach Resort – HK resort offers a stunning beachfront view and rooms equipped with LCD TV and oher basic amenities. A restaurant is also open to serve guests with delectable meals. Rates:

Cottages ₱600/day

Tables ₱500/day

A/C Room for two – ₱2,500/night

A/C Room for four – ₱3,500/night

Family Room (good for eight) – ₱5,000/night

Booking: +63 919 476 6385 | (032) 511 2499 | [email protected]

Asian Belgian Resort – Asian Belgian Resort sits on a rock cliff with awesome view of the ocean and easy access to the underwater wonders below it. Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/AsianBelgianResort

You may also check our trusted accommodations partner, Agoda.com, for more hotel options.

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The sardine run as viewed from the surface

Pescador Island – With just a short boat ride away, be amazed with the amazing underwater creatures of Pescador Island. If you are game for an adrenaline rush, try cliff jumping. Do it only when it is high tide though. Boat rentals to Pescador Island starts at ₱3,000.

Beach Bumming – You can simply go swimming on the shallow water or just feel the sand and the heat along Panagsama Beach in Basdiot or Whitebeach in Basdaku.

Local kids playing with the awesome Panagsama sunset as backdrop

Gracing the Sunset – Moalboal is one of the Philippine beachfronts that face the sunset. See how the sky bursts in colors as the sun disappears from the horizon.

Basdaku Beach fronting HK Resort Moalboal

As a home to pristine beachfronts, awesome rock formations, and scenic countryside, Pagudpud awes every travelers, first timers or not. The inviting Saud Beach and Blue Lagoon are more than enough to entice you to visit. Likewise, the Kapurpurawan rock formations, the Kabigan Falls, the wind farm in Bangui, and the secrets of past of the neighboring towns are equally intriguing – you will surely find your way to the northernmost municipality of Luzon island.

Paoay Church or with the antiques displayed at Malacañang of the North. You must not skip sand surfing at the Sand Dunes or view the other angles of the martial law years at Marcos Museum and Mausoleum.

Blue Lagoon, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Now, when you are planning to experience Pagudpud, here’s a travel guide for you. The contents of this article are divided into the following sections:

things to do in the municipality.

The enchanting Kapurpurawan Rock Formations

Plan your travels ahead and cross out the items in the list below on your Pagudpud visit.

Blue Lagoon (Maira-ira Beach) and Hannah’s Zip line—The blue lagoon is more of a cove or bay than a lagoon. It is a host to a long strip of white shoreline named Maira-ira beach. Hovering it is the 1.2-kilometer Hannah’s zip line, famed to be the world’s longest in the “over water” category.

Patapat Viaduct—Patapat Viaduct bridges the highway that connects the provinces of the North. Patapat stands 31 meters and is 1.3 kilometers long. It is an architectural prowess built on a rocky beach.

Saud Beach—Saud beach is popular for its long strip of powdery, white-sand beach and calm and squeaky-clean water fronting it. Yes, Saud Beach is one of the most stunning shorelines in Luzon. Open up your beach umbrella, lay on your tanning bed (sunbed), take a glass of piña colada, and forget about everything else – then your Saud beach experience will be all about relaxation and happiness.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation—The postcard-perfect Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is the most-photographed spot in Pagudpud. These rocks had been chiseled naturally by strong tidal forces. This monumental calcium carbonate figure glows white under a strong sunlight and turns ivory in a gloomy day. Whatever the weather is, Kapurpurawan will always be a perfect backdrop of your selfies and groupies.

Bangui Windmills—At first, this is just a noble government project. There’s no greener than harvesting wind energy and eventually turning it to electricity. Truly noble, truly renewable. However, the proponents of this project never expected that this wind farm would turn into a major tourist attraction. I know, you also wanted a photo beside these gigantic electricity-generating fans.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse—Built in 1887 by Martin Pers, the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse stands 20 meters. The octagonal main tower is made of stones and bricks and is topped with bronze dome or copula. It also has a viewing gallery that is surrounded with decorative iron grill railings.

Kabigan Falls—A 1.8 kilometer trek may disappoint some but if you are persistent to see the waterfalls, I assure you that it has more to offer than the photos. You will forget all the efforts once you take a dip to its cold and indulging waters beneath.

Bantay Abot Cave and Timmangtang Rocks—Bantay Abot Cave is not a cave but an opening created by two leaning rocks or hills. The hole was formed from an earthquake that happened decades ago. Just few meters from Bantay Abot is Timmangtang Rock which you may find intriguing and mysterious.

Dos Hermanos Islands—The twin islands of Dos Hermanos protrude from the shallow sea at the end of the Maira-ira beach. Having a photo with them as your backdrop is worth a page on your memory books.

Paoay and Batac—You may include in your things to do the must-visit places in the municipalities south of Laoag. In Paoay, you can go sand surfing; pay a visit to San Agustin Church, a word heritage site; or explore within the corners of Malacañang of the North. You can also get a glimpse of history at Marcos Museum and Mausoleum in the municipality of Batac.

Pagudpud Tour Cycle.

The stunning Kabigan falls

The Pagudpud Tour Cycle costs ₱600 per tour and this is good for 3 persons for one whole day of awesome experience. It is divided into two major tour routes and the stops are as follows:

Pagudpud Tour Cycle – Northbound Tour

Kabigan Falls

Patapat Viaduct

Agua Grande

Patapat Viaduct

Paraiso ni Anton

Timmangtang Rock

Bantay Abot Cave

Blue Lagoon

Dos Hermanos Islands

Pagudpud Tour Cycle – Southbound Tour

Bangui Windmills

Bangui View Deck

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

If you want to go to Kapurpurawan Rock Formations, you can ask your southbound tour cycle guide/driver to bring you there but this w should be compensated with an extra cost. You may add ₱100 to ₱200 to the standard ₱600 tour fee.

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A resort near the strip of white beach would be a perfect place to stay in Pagudpud. If you have no plans to frolic around the town, then a staycation near the shore would be the best choice. Nothing beats the sojourn bliss of having your own beachfront sunbed under the shade of palm trees complimented with a glass of your favorite cocktail.

Saud Beach, Pagudpud

Here are the recommended resorts and hotels in Pagudpud:

Near Blue Lagoon

Casa Consuelo Resort – Island reef – Stay in a relaxing and elegant beachfront casas of Casa Consuelo. Their accommodations are built from native materials but of modern interiors and designs, a pretty sophisticated contrast. If you are looking for a quiet yet noteworthy stay, then Casa Consuelo Resort would be best for you. Address: P. Paterno St., Sitio Baniaran, Balaoi, Pagudpud

Hannah’s Beach Resort and Convention Center – Location-wise, Hannah is quite a perfect choice. Fronting it is the Blue Lagoon at the stunning Maira-ira Beach. It also offers a ride to world’s longest zip line over water at 1.2 kilometers.

Dos Hermanos Island Emprise Beach House – At the farther end of Blue Lagoon it seats, offering you a noteworthy stay. Fronting the resort is the famed Dos Hermanos Islands and is pretty close to the stunning Maira-ira Beach. A room for 4 starts at ₱3,000. However, you can find competitive rates at Agoda when you book in advance during off-peak season. Address: Sitio Baniaran, Balaoi, Pagudpud

Near Saud Beach

Palm Grove Saud Holiday Complex Hotel – Just few meters from Saud Beach, Palm Grove is a good choice for group or family travelers on a tight budget. Address: Sitio Jupiter, Barangay Saud, Pagudpud

Terra Rikka Beach & Dive Resort – The resort is designed for both business and leisure. Terra Rikka stands pretty close to Saud beach so beach bumming is just footsteps away. Address: Saud, Pagudpud

Near the Surfing Area

Kingfisher Sand Sea Surf Resort – Located in an area that is a constant target of the north wind, Kingfisher is a resort of choice for surfing enthusiasts. They have ocean view huts and casitas available to answer your discriminating accommodation needs. Room rate starts at ₱2,500. You can also get discounts at Agoda. Address: Sitio Ayoyo, Brgy. Caparispisan, Pagudpud

Villa del Nico Beach Resort – Villa del Nico is bit far from the beach but they have one of the most competitive rates. They also have a nice swimming pool. A room for 4 starts at ₱2,000 per night. Address: Sitio Aprot, Caparispisan, Pagudpud

If you plan to visit Laoag, Paoay, and Batac, you can also book your accommodation in Laoag. Competitive rates and advance bookings are available at Agoda.

Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel Address: Brgy. 37 Calayab, Laoag City Proper

Laoag Parklane Hotel Address: Barangay 55 Barit – A, General Segundo Avenue, Laoag City Proper

Isabel Suites Address: Brgy. 11, Gen Segundo Ave., Laoag City Proper

Plaza Del Norte and Convention Center Address: 41 Balacad, Laoag City Proper

Pamulinawen Hotel Address: National Highway, Brgy. 22, 2901 San Nicholas (near the airport)

Vigan and its neighboring towns. If you need a list of things to do in Vigan, you can check the article entitled: “Things to do in Vigan, Ilocos Sur“. If you arrive early in Vigan, you immediately check Calle Crisologo. It is more awesome at night. Better yet, book a hotel near the historical street.

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