Bulacan is the perfect place to visit if you’re into travel and love taking pictures. This cute city just outside of Manila has many photogenic locations. Whether you’re on a family holiday, hanging out with friends, or going solo, this guide will show you the most “Instagrammable” places in Bulacan.
So, get your camera ready and dive into the best picture-perfect spots you can visit!
Why Visit Bulacan?
Bulacan is close to Manila, so it’s great for a quick escape from city life. The province offers a mix of nature, history, and cool, relaxing places. From stunning waterfalls to historical landmarks, Bulacan has a lot to offer. But the best part? The beautiful spots are perfect for your Instagram feed.
Best Instagrammable Places in Bulacan
Here are our top picks for the best instagrammable places in Bulacan.
1. Malolos Cathedral
Let’s start with Malolos Cathedral. It’s not just a place for prayer but also a great spot for photos. The church’s old design makes it perfect for capturing that vintage vibe. It also has a rich historical background and was crucial to the Philippine Revolution. The large bell towers, high ceilings, and beautiful white walls look amazing in photos.
Why You Should Visit
- Stunning old architecture
- Perfect for vintage-style photos
- Full of historical significance
Photography Tip: Try visiting in the late afternoon when the sun is low. The lighting will add a magical touch to your photos.
2. Verdivia Falls
Love waterfalls? Verdivia Falls is a must-visit. It’s not as famous as other waterfalls, which means fewer tourists and more time to enjoy nature. The clear water, surrounded by green trees, makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Relax in the peaceful setting or take a refreshing dip in the cold water. Bring a waterproof camera if you want to take shots while swimming.
Why You Should Visit
- Undiscovered location, fewer travellers
- Ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure
- Great for taking unique, peaceful shots
Photography Tip: Capture the flowing water and surrounding greenery early in the morning with natural light.
3. Casa Real Shrine
Step back in time when you visit Casa Real Shrine. This place, which has been transformed into a museum, displays the rich history of Bulacan. The place is beautiful, with its old Spanish-style design and charming interiors. This is ideal for those who want their images to have that vintage appeal. Additionally, you get to learn a little history while you’re there!
Why You Should Visit
- Spanish-style architecture
- Great spot for historical-themed photos
- Learn more about Bulacan’s culture and past
Photography Tip: Use the expansive windows and doorways to frame your photos. This will make your shots look extra artistic. This is also a perfect destination to hold brand shoots.
4. Bustos Dam
Bustos Dam is a unique spot where nature and engineering come together. It’s not just a regular dam; it’s actually quite pretty! The long stretch of the dam looks amazing in wide-angle shots. Surrounding it, you’ll see fields and trees, making it a perfect place for scenic photos.
If you visit during sunset, the view is even more breathtaking. The dam’s reflection on the water, with the sky turning orange, will definitely be a hit on your Instagram feed.
Why You Should Visit
- Unique mix of nature and engineering
- Wide-open spaces perfect for landscape photos
- Stunning sunsets
Photography Tip: For the finest lighting for your shots, visit during golden hour, which is right before sunset.
5. Biak-na-Bato National Park
Biak-na-Bato National Park is not just one spot but a large area filled with caves, rivers, and mountains. You can go hiking, explore caves, or just relax by the river. This location is ideal if you want to photograph nature at its most beautiful.
Why You Should Visit
- Ideal for adventurers and nature lovers
- Great spot for landscape and outdoor photography
- Plenty of hiking and outdoor activities
Photography Tip: Bring a tripod for long-exposure shots in caves or by the river to capture the movement of water.
6. Pulilan Butterfly Haven
This haven is home to hundreds of beautiful butterflies flying freely in a garden. It’s a wonderful place to relax and get up close and personal with these fragile species.
The garden is also full of colourful flowers, making it a perfect photo backdrop.
Why You Should Visit
- See hundreds of butterflies in one place
- Great spot for nature photography
- Relaxing and peaceful environment
Photography Tip: Use a macro lens to get detailed close-up pictures of the butterflies.
7. Barasoain Church
Barasoain Church is one of the most famous historical landmarks in the Philippines. Its old stone walls, beautiful arches, and tower make it a perfect backdrop for timeless photos. The interiors are also stunning, with their high ceilings and a beautiful altar.
Why You Should Visit
- Rich historical significance
- Beautiful old architecture perfect for photos
- Peaceful atmosphere for quiet reflection
Photography Tip: Visit in the early morning when the sun softly hits the stone walls, creating a beautiful glow.
8. Baliuag Museum
The Baliuag Museum has a rich collection of artefacts, paintings, and old photographs. Housed in an ancestral home, the museum is a beauty. The grand staircase, large wooden windows, and antique furniture are all photogenic. Every corner of the museum offers a new perspective, making finding unique shots for your feed easy.
Why You Should Visit
- Get to know Bulacan’s history and culture
- Perfect for vintage and cultural photos
- Beautiful ancestral home setting
Photography Tip: Use natural lighting from the large windows to get the best indoor shots.
9. San Rafael River Adventure
It’s a great spot for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding and for those who love glamping. The calm river and surrounding greenery create the perfect environment for relaxation and stunning photos. If you’re more into action-packed activities, you’ll love capturing shots while doing watersports.
For those who prefer a quieter experience, glamping by the river offers incredible sunrise and sunset views, perfect for your Instagram feed.
Why You Should Visit
- Enjoy thrilling outdoor activities
- Perfect for water and adventure photography
- Amazing sunrise and sunset views for peaceful moments
Photography Tip: Stay overnight to capture the sunrise or sunset over the river. You won’t regret it!
10. Mount Manalmon
If you enjoy trekking and are game for a challenge, Mount Manalmon is the place to be. It’s an easy hike, making it perfect even for beginners, but the view from the top is absolutely worth it. Along the way, you’ll come across rivers, caves, and even hanging bridges, all of which make for fantastic photos.
As soon as you reach the summit, you will be greeted by a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This is the perfect place to take wide-angle shots and capture the beauty of Bulacan’s natural landscapes.
Why You Should Visit
- Great for hiking and nature photography
- Amazing views from the summit
- Perfect for outdoor adventurers
Photography Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the amazing beauty of the scenery from the peak.
11. Pinagrealan Cave
If you want to visit a place that not many people know about, Pinagrealan Cave is a great choice. This cave has a vital history because people used it as a hiding place during the Philippine Revolution. It’s ideal for people who enjoy taking cool indoor photos and having adventures.
The cave is dark and spooky, with rock formations that look like icicles hanging from the ceiling and rising from the ground. It’s a fun spot for anyone who enjoys exploring something different!
Why You Should Visit
- Great for adventurous explorers
- Historical significance adds depth to your visit
- Unique photo opportunities inside the cave
Photography Tip: Bring a strong flashlight or headlamp to light up the cave for cool, dramatic shots.
12. Galilee Wonderland
Galilee Wonderland is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a family-friendly spot. It’s a resort with beautiful pools, gardens, and play areas for kids. The colourful slides and pools are great for action shots, while the landscaped gardens offer peaceful and pretty backgrounds. It’s a terrific spot to take pictures of enjoyable moments, particularly while travelling with little children.
Why You Should Visit
- Family-friendly resort
- Colourful pools and slides, perfect for fun photos
- Landscaped gardens for relaxing shots
Photography Tip: Capture the excitement of the water slides or take relaxed shots by the garden.
13. Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
A well-liked pilgrimage site, the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in San Jose del Monte is a duplicate of the well-known Lourdes Grotto in France. The well-maintained gardens and the striking statue of Our Lady of Lourdes provide the perfect backdrop for cute photography.
Why You Should Visit
- Spiritual and peaceful retreat
- Perfect for calm and serene photos
- Beautiful gardens and chapel
Photography Tip: For the most peaceful shots, capture the quiet beauty of the place during the early morning hours.
14. Plaridel Church
This church is known for its old, beautiful design. It has fancy carvings and looks from a long time ago. The outside is made of white walls and grey stone, and green plants surround it, making it great for photos. Inside are colourful glass windows and a pretty altar, perfect for taking nice church pictures.
Why You Should Visit
- Beautiful baroque-style design
- Perfect for those interested in religious architecture
- Peaceful and scenic atmosphere
Photography Tip: The intricate details on the facade make for great close-up shots.
Final Thoughts
Bulacan has everything from waterfalls and dams to historical churches and parks. So, the next time you plan a quick getaway, visit these Instagram-worthy spots in Bulacan.
FAQs
Is Bulacan safe for tourists?
Yes, Bulacan is generally a safe place to visit. However, as with any travel, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions.
What’s the best way to get around Bulacan?
Bulacan is best explored by vehicle or van. Although public transport is accessible, having a car gives you greater freedom, particularly when visiting far-off places.
How do I get to Bulacan?
Manila is only one hour away from Bulacan. It is quite simple to get to, and you can either take a bus or a car there.
When is the best time to visit Bulacan?
December to March is the ideal time of year. The busiest travel week in February is the second week.
Are there places to eat in Bulacan?
Yes! Bulacan has many local restaurants where you can try traditional Filipino food. Don’t miss trying some local delicacies like “pastillas” and “chicharon.”
