You don’t have to be a photographer or art connoisseur to appreciate the beauty of this instagram-famous gem. The Mediterranean-style museum designed by Antonio Leano is of course, worth more than just its looks. Pinto Art Museum has 6 galleries that feature contemporary art by Raffy Napar and Mark Justiniani, to name a few. Expect to see more than just your typical paintings, there are dioramas, graffiti art, sculptures, mobiles and more.

Although Padi’s Point opened branches in the lower areas around Metro Manila, there’s still nothing like the original. More than just a resto-bar with great happy hour deals, Padi’s point is one of the best spots for viewing the Manila Skyline. From Quezon City to Laguna Bay, the breathtaking view explains why the spot is also known as Cloud 9.

Also known as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, the Antipolo Cathedral draws pilgrims and devotees from all over especially during Holy Week. Aside from being a sought after religious destination, the Cathedral serves as one of the city’s most significant and popular landmarks. Masses start as early as 5am and continue hourly throughout the day. But If you’re not a devotee, the Cathedral’s intricate altar, stained-glass windows, and colorful guests from all over is enough reason to drop by.

Named after its original discoverer, Inday Nelly Deles, the Mystical Cave is believed to have healing powers due to the number of “mystic” or religious formations around the cave. But whether you attach the site to something religious or not, the intricate details of the stalactites and stalagmites, and towering columns of glittering rocks, will leave you mystified just the same.

Short for Peace And Care For Earth Ministry, it comes to no surprise that people looking for some peace and quiet end up here. This eco-park comes complete with a mini forest, wild-life sanctuary, butterfly collection, aviary, organic garden, and so much more.

Tucked within a residential area hides one of the mountain city’s best art and culinary destinations. The quirky and colorful Crescent Moon Cafe is owned by the niece of National Artist and sculptor, Napoleon Abueva. The large property entails a private home, pottery studio, garden and a cafe. The reservation-only cafe offers delicious, season-based dishes alternating between buffet-style and set menus. After meals, guests can explore, browse, and buy handmade (slightly-damaged) beautiful pottery for only P200/kilo.

There’s nothing like the Christmas spirit in the Philippines! If you think a holiday countdown that begins with the “Ber” months is too much, then Casa Santa is here to prove you wrong. Here, Christmas is celebrated 365 days a year! The internationally-recognized museum boasts of a collection of over 3,700 Santa Claus and Christmas-themed items.

Famous for being part of the song by German San Jose, Hinulugang Taktak falls is considered to be one of the top destinations to visit in Antipolo. The 12-meter high falls and the surrounding area was declared a National Park in the ‘90s and has since been one of the necessary stopovers when you’re around the area. The park is currently undergoing major restorations and still has a lot to go in terms of maintenance, but the beautiful view and relaxing sound of the falling water makes it worth the trip.

Boso-boso Church or The Nuestra Señora de la Annunciata Parish is a 16th-century structure built by priests during the Spanish era. The church has survived wars, fires, earthquakes and even abandonment throughout the centuries of its existence. But today, after reconstruction, it still maintains its original architectural design.

Jardin de Miramar is a 3-hectare garden complex with several themed event venues that can be booked for special occasions. Aside from being one of the favored destinations for weddings and other special events, the property also features two tree mazes (Campo Siete, and Sylvana Tree Maze), and the Casa Santa Museum. Jardin de Miramar’s lush greens and tall trees make it the perfect respite for nature-lovers and field trips.

Explore Antipolo and check out other activities, food spots, and places to stay!]]>