Top 10 Recommended Summer Destinations in the Philippines with Cool Climate

Coolest towns in the Philippines? Where?

Where to find the coldest places in the Philippines where you could feel winter in the tropics? Check this list of coldest places in the Philippines where you could escape the sweltering heat of summer.

Dreaming of misty mountains, pine-scented air, and sweater weather in the tropics? The Philippines isn’t just about white-sand beaches — it’s also home to breathtaking highland destinations with refreshingly cool climates. From the scenic peaks of Baguio and the sea of clouds in Sagada, to the rolling hills of Tagaytay overlooking Taal Volcano, these elevated escapes offer stunning landscapes, cultural charm, and a break from the country’s tropical heat. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway, a romantic retreat, or a peaceful nature trip, this guide to the top places to visit in the Philippines with cool climate will help you discover the perfect high-altitude haven for your next adventure.

As a tropical country, the Philippines usually enjoys a sunny climate all throughout the year. It's hot, yes, during summer months, but that doesn't mean that there are no cool places (as in, literally cool) in the Philippines for you to enjoy. If you wish to escape the rising temperature in the metropolis, here are some of the places I've been to with cool climate that you may want to consider for a visit this summer. Let's say, this is my most recommended summer destinations in the Philippines with cool climate. Enjoy!

Lanao del Sur - Visiting King Faisal Mosque

A mosque is a Muslim place for prayer and worship. It comes from the Arabic word masjid which means "a place of prostration" to God. Being an Islamic City, Marawi has a lot of Mosques. I'm glad that even with a limited time, I was able to visit at least one of Marawi City's mosques.

Lanao del Sur - An Enriching Tour at the Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts

It is my privilege to personally witness how rich Maranao and the Muslim culture in general is, by visiting the Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts. Originally opened in 1962, it is located inside Mindanao State University Main Campus in the Islamic City of Marawi. It was named in honor of His Royal Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV who greatly contributed to the realization of the museum.

Lanao del Sur - Strolling Around Mindanao State University, Marawi City

Midanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City is the flagship and the biggest campus of the MSU System. It was founded in 1961 with a vision of being the “Premier Supra-Regional University in the MINSUPALA (Mindanao, Sulu Archipelago, and Palawan) region”. Under Republic Act 1387, MSU was created and opened with 282 students and 12 faculty members.

Lanao del Sur - En Route to the Islamic City of Marawi

I arrived early morning of September 16, 2011 in Ozamiz City Airport. From there, I took a tricycle going to the Integrated Bus and Jeepney Terminal where I will take a bus going to Iligan City. To my surprise, the 10-minute ride from the airport to the transport terminal costs 60 pesos. Huwhat??? Considering that we are four in the tricycle and all of us paid the same amount? It's too expensive huh!