Manila is a fantastic starting point for exploring some of the Philippines’ most breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Its central location makes it easy to access everything from UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Banaue Rice Terraces to lively city streets and peaceful mountain retreats. What we love most about these 3-day tours is how they balance adventure, history, and authentic local experiences—perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the best the country has to offer. For example, the tour to Banaue and Batad offers a chance to walk through 2,000-year-old terraces, a sight that truly lives up to its reputation as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Meanwhile, city-based tours like the Manila and Pagsanjan Falls combo let you soak up urban culture and natural beauty in just a few days.
Whether you’re after epic hikes, culture, or scenic drives, these tours give you a taste of the Philippines’ diverse offerings. We’ve included options for different budgets, activity levels, and interests, so whether you want a small-group adventure or a comprehensive sightseeing package, there’s something here for you.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a wide range of 3-day tours in Manila, from trekking the Banaue Rice Terraces (Banaue & Batad UNESCO 3days 2 nights Tour) to city and coastal explorations like the Manila and Pagsanjan Falls package (Manila and Pagsanjan Falls: 3-Day Package). Some tours focus on cultural heritage, such as Sagada and Baguio (Manila and Sagada Tour), while others highlight natural wonders like the Batad and Hapao Rice Terraces or the Ilocos Sand Dunes (Ilocos Tour). Each offers a different flavor—whether you’re looking for trekking, hot springs, or city highlights—and all have strong reviews, with ratings ranging from 3.6 to perfect scores.
1. Banaue & Batad UNESCO 3days 2 nights Tour (Private Group Tour Max 6 Travelers)
For around $630 per person, this small-group tour takes you from Manila to the iconic Banaue and Batad Rice Terraces, two of the Philippines’ most photographed landscapes. What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach—limited to just six travelers—ensuring a more intimate experience with your accredited local guide. Over three days, you’ll traverse 420 km of mountain roads in a private air-conditioned van, making the long drive more comfortable than a bus ride.
On your first day, you’ll start early with a drive that takes approximately 9-10 hours, including stops for lunch and scenic viewpoints. Arriving in Banaue, you’ll visit the 2000-year-old terraces, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” and enjoy a view that’s better in person than any postcard. The second day features a jeepney ride to Batad, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its amphitheater-shaped terraces. You’ll hike to Tappia Waterfall, a highlight for nature lovers. The tour includes overnight stays in Banaue and Batad homestays, giving you genuine local hospitality.
Rated 5/5 by 26 reviews, travelers praise the expert guides and smooth logistics. This tour is perfect for those seeking depth, comfort, and a true taste of the Philippines’ rice terraces.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting an in-depth, small-group experience with expert guidance and authentic accommodations.
2. Banaue Rice Terraces Escape: 3 Days, 2 Nights with Transfers
At $500 per person, this tour is a great option for those who want to experience Banaue’s terraces without the hassle of a long, 12-hour bus ride. It emphasizes comfort and convenience, with two-way transfers from your hotel in Manila, saving you the fatigue of the long drive. The trip includes an overnight stay at a Banaue homestay and a focus on hiking the terraces and visiting the stunning Batad Rice Terraces—a UNESCO site for good reason.
Your first day involves arriving mid-day after a scenic drive, with the afternoon dedicated to viewing the magnificent Banaue Rice Terraces. The second day takes you to Batad and Tappiya Falls, where you’ll walk through rice paddies and enjoy a refreshing swim in the waterfall. Day 3 includes a visit to the Hapao Rice Terraces, the largest of the terraces visited on this tour. The pace is relaxed, making it suitable for travelers interested in nature, culture, and gentle hikes.
The tour has received strong reviews, with one noting the friendly guides and warm homestay experience. The value here is excellent for travelers who want a focused, comfortable trip with guided hikes and local immersion.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a stress-free journey with comfortable transfers and a focus on the most famous rice terraces.
3. Philippines Intro 3 days 2 nights Tour Best of Manila and Beyond
At $800 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of urban exploration and scenic escapes. It starts in Manila with visits to Intramuros, the historic Spanish walled city, including landmarks like Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church. From there, you move to Tagaytay for its cooler climate and panoramic views of Taal Volcano. On the second day, you’ll head to Calatagan, snorkelling and exploring floating cottages—a more relaxed, marine-focused experience.
The final day takes you to Pagsanjan Falls, where you’ll enjoy a scenic canoe ride past waterfalls and gorges. This tour is perfect for those who want a rundown of Manila’s cultural highlights combined with some natural adventures. The inclusion of visits to Tagaytay and Pagsanjan adds variety, making it suitable for travelers interested in both city sights and outdoor activities.
Rated 5/5 by three reviews, travelers appreciate the diverse itinerary and smooth logistics. The tour’s price reflects its full package of city, mountain, and water activities, making it a good value.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive city-and-nature experience with a bit of everything.
4. Manila: 3-Day Sagada, Baguio, & Banaue Rice Terraces Tour
At $223 per person, this budget-friendly option packs a punch with visits to Sagada’s hanging coffins, Baguio’s strawberry farms, and the Banaue Rice Terraces. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to cover multiple destinations without breaking the bank. The trip focuses on nature, culture, and scenic drives, with highlights like Echo Valley and Sagada’s caves.
Reviews are mixed, with some noting the long drives and basic accommodations, but most appreciate the value for the price. It’s a straightforward, no-frills tour perfect for those who love a fast-paced itinerary and are okay with a more rough-and-ready experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for budget travelers eager to see several highlights over three days, especially if they’re comfortable with longer travel times.
$223 per person
5. 3 Days Private Tour in Banaue Ifugao visiting Batad Rice Terraces
This private 3-day experience at $625 per person offers the intimacy of a customized itinerary focused on hiking and culture. Starting from Manila at 6:00 am, your driver takes you through scenic mountain roads with stops for lunch. The highlight is exploring Batad’s UNESCO-listed rice terraces and Tappiya Waterfalls, where you can enjoy a swim after the hike.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized service and the chance to stay overnight in family-owned accommodations. The guide’s local expertise helps you understand the agricultural engineering behind the terraces and the lifestyles of the Ifugao people.
Guests mention the long drive but also praise the authentic experience. It’s best suited for travelers who love trekking, culture, and nature and want a more exclusive tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prioritize personalized service and active exploration in a scenic, cultural setting.
$625.00 per person
6. From Manila: 3-Day Tour of Buscalan, Banaue and Sagada
This multi-destination tour costs around $193 per person and offers a unique chance to meet Apo Whang-Od, the legendary hand-tapped tattoo artist in Buscalan. It combines culture with trekking through the Banaue Rice Terraces and Sagada’s Hanging Coffins. The tour is ideal for those wanting more than just scenery—here, you’ll experience living traditions and art.
While the reviews aren’t detailed, the price point makes it attractive for travelers interested in authentic, hands-on culture. The longer travel times and rougher logistics are trade-offs for a chance to witness living history firsthand.
Bottom Line: Best for cultural explorers seeking art, tradition, and authentic experiences beyond the usual sights.
$193 per person
7. Manila and Pagsanjan Falls: 3-Day Package
At $265, this comprehensive package combines urban exploration—including Intramuros and Chinatown—with a scenic canoe ride to Pagsanjan Falls. It’s a well-rounded itinerary for those wanting a mix of city sights and natural beauty. The cultural walking tours include historic churches and the old train tracks, giving a taste of Manila’s colonial past.
The highlight is the canoe trip, which is both relaxing and exhilarating. The reviews mention how well-organized the trip is, making it suitable for families or first-time visitors. This tour strikes a good balance between history, culture, and outdoor adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a diverse, active three days with both city and water activities.
$265 per person
8. Ilocos, Philippines: 3 Day Tour with Sand Dunes & Heritage
For $322 per person, this tour offers a bit further afield from Manila, exploring the Ilocos region’s sand dunes, historic sites, and coastal scenery. Highlights include the Bangui Windmills, Pagudpud beaches, and UNESCO-listed Vigan with its cobblestone streets. The 4×4 Sand Dunes Adventure is a standout feature, offering an adrenaline rush amid towering dunes.
Guests appreciate the structured itinerary, which balances cultural visits with adventure activities. If you enjoy history combined with outdoor thrills, this tour provides excellent value for a three-day trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a full regional experience with a mix of beach, history, and adventure.
$322 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Manila 3-Day Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. For deep culture and scenic trekking, the Banaue & Batad tour is unbeatable. If comfort and convenience matter most, the Banaue Rice Terraces Escape offers a hassle-free experience with transfers included. Budget travelers might prefer the Sagada and Baguio tour, which covers multiple sites at a lower price.
For those wanting a city and coastal mix, the Manila and Pagsanjan Falls package provides a wide variety of experiences. Finally, if your focus is on adventure and history, the Ilocos trip with sand dunes and heritage sites is a top pick.
Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited group sizes or specialized activities like hiking the terraces or seeing Apo Whang-Od. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve significant walking or hiking— and match your preferences to the right experience.
Final Thoughts
This selection of 8 excellent 3-day tours in Manila offers something for every traveler. If you’re keen on spectacular landscapes and cultural insights, the Banaue and Batad tour remains a highlight. For a more urban-focused trip, explore Manila’s historic sites and nearby waterfalls. Budget-conscious travelers will find value in the Sagada and Baguio adventure, while those with a taste for adventure and heritage will enjoy the Ilocos trip.
No matter your choice, these tours demonstrate that in just three days, you can see a significant slice of what makes the Philippines special. Remember to book early, pack comfortable shoes, and prepare to return home with plenty of stories to tell.