23 Best Butuan City Tourist Spots: Your Ultimate Guide to Unlock Butuan’s Treasures
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You may have heard much about the Philippines’ abundant natural wonders, tourist attractions, and cultural heritage.
Many visitors have already taken their time exploring the country’s breathtaking islands, stunning waterfalls, captivating landscapes, and other remarkable destinations.
However, the adventure doesn’t end there and there is still so much to discover!
In the southern part of the Philippines, there is a city that stands out among the rest – the City of Butuan! As the saying goes, “In the beginning, there was no Philippines, but there was Butuan.”
It’s one of the most historic cities in the country that offers unique experiences for visitors no matter where you’re coming from.
If you’ve had enough enjoyment in the most popular places in the Philippines, then I bet visiting the best Butuan City tourist spots is something you should look forward to!
To help you out, here’s a list of the top places to visit in Butuan!
Best Tourist Spots For Families: Masao Beach
Must Visit for Anyone: Balangay Shrine Museum
Most Notable Tourist Spot: Agusan River Cruise
23 Butuan City Tourist Spots
1. Butuan National Museum 🏛️
With Butuan known as one of the most historic cities in the country, you would surely find yourself excited to visit the Butuan National Museum!
You can easily locate the museum because besides being a famous tourist spot in Butuan, it is near Butuan City Hall.
This historical structure in Butuan City houses the most significant archaeological items not only in the city but also around the Caraga region.
It holds some objects that were once used by the early Butuanon residents for their daily life such as jars, ceramic and earthenwares, hand-woven clothes, and many more!
The museum’s most important artefacts are the parts of the Balanghai (Butuan Boats), which were discovered in 1974, proving the existence of a civilization before the Spanish colonizers came into the country.
These ancient boats have great historical and cultural importance and were even recognized as a National Cultural Treasure.
Butuan City Museum offers guided tours and various events for both locals and tourists. It is open from 9 AM to 4 PM except Mondays.
When you visit the Butuan National Museum, you will surely get a meaningful experience and knowledge of both the Historic Butuan and the Pre-Hispanic Philippines.
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2. Magellan’s Anchorage ⛴
Another historical landmark is Magellan’s Anchorage. This tourist attraction in Butuan City is believed by many Filipinos to be the site where Ferdinand Magellan, the renowned Portuguese explorer who led the Spanish expedition, landed his fleet in 1521.
The first blood compact between Magellan and the other two Butuanon kings also took place here.
It is located close to Masao, formerly Mazaua Island, and is visited by many people to witness the statue which serves as a memorial for Magellan.
You can also witness a replica of the Spanish galleon he used along with some plaques and markers that tell the story of Magellan and his significance in Philippine history.
What makes it more convincing is that you can go there at any day and time that suits you without any fee!
So, don’t forget to add Magellan’s Anchorage to your list of the best places to visit in Butuan!
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3. St. Joseph Cathedral ⛪
Make your visit to Butuan City complete by including a visit to the St. Joseph Cathedral.
The St. Joseph Cathedral is thought to be the first-ever church on Mindanao island and has now become a tourist attraction in Butuan City. It is also where the first mass of Easter was celebrated.
Tourists visit the church to see its admirable architecture, in addition to the daily masses the church holds, with many Butuanons and visitors attending services conducted in different languages.
Its central location in front of the famous Guingona Park (town square), also adds to its accessibility and prominence within the community.
4. Banza Church Ruins 🏛️
For a perfect sightseeing experience, don’t forget to visit Banza Church Ruins. This stone structure is said to be the most wonderful in the region back in the 1600s.
However, it was burned down by Moro pirates in 1753 which later made it the oldest church ruins in Mindanao.
Presently, what was destroyed left a mark of historical significance and became one of the most visited tourist spots in Butuan City. That is even though only a bell tower is left of its former condition.
The bell tower is wrapped in a big old Balete tree which makes it an ideal place for taking pictures. The Banza Church Ruins stand in the oldest barangay (village) in Butuan City.
You can reach the place by just riding a tricycle from the centre. No entrance fee!
5. Agusan River 🏞️
The Agusan River is a well-known river in the Philippines, ranking as the country’s 3rd largest and longest river. It is formed by many interconnected big and small rivers, which create a vast waterway.
In Butuan’s history, the Agusan River was important for the economy of its early settlers.
They engaged in commerce and trading not only along the river but also with other regions and unexplored territories, using balangay boats.
You can see the river even when passing by the landmark Magsaysay Bridge. Most public transportation options pass by the said bridge when you’re coming from Davao or Surigao going downtown.
To fully appreciate the Agusan River, you shouldn’t just pass by without stopping. Instead, make sure to visit Butuan River Park, a recent hotspot for both tourists and locals where you can eat, drink, and have fun!
The park also often hosts live bands at night, bazaars, and other local events that add to the excitement, so never miss out on it!
6. Mt. Mayapay ⛰️
If climbing is your thing, then exploring Mt. Mayapay is a must-do for you!
It’s a longstanding landmark for the city that started way back at the time of the Kingdom of Butuan, one of the earliest states that existed in the Philippines.
While this 675-meter-high mountain is no match with other mountains in Mindanao, its strategic position which can give you a different view of the Agusan River and Butuan Bay makes it deserving to be on the itinerary of anyone searching for places to visit in Butuan.
Mt. Mayapay is popular in the city, especially for hikers which makes it a very accessible destination.
Going there, you’ll only need to catch a multi-cab from the city centre to Brgy. Bonbon junction, and then ride a habal-habal (motorcycle for hire), and the driver will get you to Tower 1 to start your trekking adventure.
While there, you will be amazed by the stunning view of Butuan City and the Agusan del Norte province.
7. Balangay Boat Building Site 🛶
Aside from seeing the exhibits of relics in the Butuan National Museum, the Balanghai Boat Building Site is also worth visiting.
Situated in Brgy. Bading, the site showcases a replica of the famous balangay boat which commemorates the Butuan’s sea voyager ancestors that ruled the sea in prehistoric times.
The boat is called Masawa Hong Butuan and has a size that can fit around 40 people. It is particularly placed in Luna Compound for preservation, surrounded by big old Acacia trees.
Visiting the site doesn’t only allow you to witness the boat replica and take some photos, but it’s also a great quiet place to relax alongside the Agusan River.
Getting to the Balanghai Boat Building Site only takes you 10 minutes via a tricycle from the city.
8. Balangay Shrine Museum 🏛️
The Balangay Shrine Museum in Butuan is found at Sitio Ambangan, Brgy. Libertad, where the ancient balangay boats that were excavated in 1976 are being displayed.
It’s a small yet very informative museum, and a go-to place if you want to know more about the city’s fascinating history.
Some of the highlights are ancient jewelry and tools, as well as some human and animal remains and coffins! Sounds creepy, doesn’t it?
Admission is free when visiting the museum – you just have to register in their logbook, and they have accommodating staff too!
9. Bequibel Shell Midden 🐚
Before people step into the Bequibel Shell Midden, they usually wonder what’s so special about the shells in this place. Well, they’re just prehistoric shells dating back 7000 years!
A midden is like a large trash pile by prehistoric people thousands of years ago, and the place offers valuable insights into the lives of early settlers in Brgy. Bonbon. This gives you an idea of what they eat and what their diet was like back then.
Be amazed as you engage yourself in this thought-provoking journey when you visit Butuan City!
10. Delta Discovery Park 🌳
Don’t skip an action-packed experience at Delta Discovery Park in Butuan City, just a half-hour away from Bancasi Airport.
It’s an adventure park that has the longest zipline in southwest Asia and shouldn’t be missed by anyone who visits the city!
Though Delta Discovery Park is famous for ziplining, it also offers zorb ball, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding, swimming, and horseback riding.
The park has an entrance fee of ₱20 and additional fees apply for each activity inside the park.
Visitors may also opt to stay there overnight since they have private cottages and dormitories.
11. Tita’s Cafe ☕
Never leave Butuan City without trying the delicious food at Tita’s Cafe!
It’s a local restaurant which has been a staple of most Butuanons. They offer a wide range of food options, but they are well-known for their lomi (noodles) and siopao.
They have two branches, one in the city centre and another on JC Aquino Avenue. You can ride a tricycle to the central branch which is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.
Make sure to include Tita’s Cafe in your itinerary and experience the local flavours that have made it a favourite among both locals and visitors!
12. Bonbon Eco Park and Leisure Farm
Discover the enchanting Bonbon Eco Park and Leisure Farm, a captivating Butuan tourist spot perfect for relaxation and adventure.
This mountain resort offers a breathtaking view of the stunning mountainous area in Brgy. Bonbon. Travellers can enjoy a little adventure by taking a single motorcycle ride from Bonbon proper to Eco-Park for a mere ₱25 per passenger.
Upon arrival at the eco-park’s receiving area, a minimum fee of P100 grants access and includes a free jeepney ride to further explore the resort. For a great view of Butuan City, don’t miss the chance to go up the mountain to the seminar house.
You can enjoy the two swimming pools available for both adults and kids. The water is sourced from the area, flowing from the big pool to the kids’ pool, the pond, and the brook at the entrance area.
While the eco-park has a canteen, please note that it’s currently not open, so bringing your food is recommended.
13. Madyaw Kadyaw Souvenir Shop
Explore the one-stop souvenir shop in Butuan City, the Madyaw Kadyaw Souvenir Shop offering the cheapest Agusan delicacies and different kinds of souvenirs from Agusan and nearby provinces.
What’s interesting is that you can Learn about the unique origins, uses, and materials of the products from the owner, so you’ll get meaningful details that add value to your purchases.
By buying from this shop, you are also supporting social work by its owner. Your purchase makes a positive impact and helps uplift the community.
Find replicas of the Golden Tara and the ancient Balangay Boat, along with indigenous products like the Manobo backpack, Maranao cloth, and traditional Kubing instrument.
Don’t miss Butuan souvenir t-shirts available here too! Make sure to visit this shop during your Butuan trip!
14. Tapnigue View Park
Tapnigue View Park should be at the top of the list for those seeking a serene and peaceful retreat.
It is a captivating destination that offers amazing views of lush green forests and majestic mountains. You can see the beautiful view of Mt. Mayapay here too!
This place is situated among the resorts bordering the expansive Butuan and Buenavista areas in Agusan Valley. Riding a multi-cab from the city proper is the best way to reach Tapnigue View Park.
It’s close to Alicia’s Ridge, another romantic place offering lots of activities like horseback riding, camping, picnics, and taking pictures by yourself or with a group.
15. Alicia’s Ridge
Alicia’s Ridge is a new tourist destination that travellers looking for Butuan City tourist attractions could also visit. Similar to Tapnigue View Park, it’s in a neighbouring town called Buenavist which is very close to Butuan City.
Heading to the town will only cost you around ₱35, or more if you prefer to get yourself a taxi. Once you get there, riding to Alicia’s Ridge is very easy as most, if not all public transport drivers know the place.
This is indeed the perfect place if you want to connect with nature. It has also picture-perfect spots available in town so you could also take as many as you want!
On top of that, Alicia’s Ridge has a lot to offer for adventurers. Camping, picnics, and horseback-riding activities are all possible here!
Staying overnight is also highly recommended as they offer accommodation in a Filipino nipa hut.
Pro tip: avail of their flagship room, the “Bamboo Cabin” which comes with a free entrance fee and snacks upon arrival when you avail it for ₱3,599 for 3 persons.
One of the highlights here is the kawa hot bath, where you can experience being “cooked alive” in a huge wok but in the most aesthetic way. Make sure to take a photo of yourself doing this!
16. Bood Promontory & Eco-Park
In Bood Pinamanculan, a village in Butuan City, you can locate the historic Bood Promontory & Eco-Park.
It’s where Butuanons believe to be the exact place Magellan and the two reigning kings of Butuan Raja Calambu and Raja Siaui met after they arrived and held the first Christian mass in Mazaua (now Masao).
This tourist spot in Butuan City was also the first cross planted by Magellan and the two Rajas.
But it’s not only a heritage park; it’s also a beautiful tourist spot in Butuan City with a lot of trees that make the place clean and green. Bood is the best place where you can relax.
Today, the indigenous “Hadyate Tree” still stands and serves as an attraction in the park.
You can easily visit Bood Promontory by riding a multi-cab, and admission is free – hooray!
17. Guingona Park
When you’re downtown, don’t forget to swing by Guingona Park! It’s a must-visit tourist spot in Butuan as it serves as the city square.
It’s the go-to place for taking some photos and experiencing being a local of Butuan for a while since many students and employees in Butuan choose this place to hang out after school or work.
Guingona Park, which is also the main park of Butuan, is home to the Shrine of the Philippine Flag in Mindanao.
The park is very near St. Joseph Cathedral and offers a variety of Filipino street foods and drinks for you to try!
Some vendors sell different kinds of stuff from locally made charms to religious accessories if you like.
Various events and trade fairs are being held here too, so you can have a memorable experience by just visiting this lively park!
18. Snack Break – Buenavista
When you’re in Buenavista, make sure to drop by Snack Break! They serve the most delicious halo-halo in town, and even in the whole Caraga region!
Both locals and tourists can’t resist trying Snack Break’s famous halo-halo. People travel for hours just to taste this local treat! So, you must give it a try too!
As the most popular ice cream shop in Buenavista, Snack Break also offers various snacks, including their famous footlong sandwich, a perfect match with their halo-halo.
The best part? Their halo-halo is only around ₱65, and the footlong sandwich is just ₱45 pesos. They’re open from Monday to Saturday, and you can find their shop along the highway.
19. Weegol’s
Another classic Butuanon restaurant that still exists at present is Weegol’s. The restaurant is famous for its juicy and saucy chicken barbeque, an all-time Filipino favourite!
Weegol’s have several branches and all of them are accessible through riding a tricycle. Their stores are open from 9 AM to 9 PM
Besides their best-selling chicken barbeque, they also serve a wide selection of dishes and desserts!
Experience dining at their restaurants using native Filipino utensils and wooden furniture. If you visit at night, you might be treated to an acoustic band playing while you enjoy your meals!
20. Diosdado Macapagal Suspension Bridge
Visiting Diosdado Macapagal Suspension Bridge may not be so enticing to the ears of travellers, but it is definitely a must-see destination as it is currently the longest bridge in Mindanao.
Named after the 9th President of the Philippines, the bridge symbolizes the friendship between the Philippines and Japan.
It is 3 kilometres long and serves as an alternate route across the Agusan River, connecting the Philippine-Japan Friendship Highway (Surigao-Agusan-Davao road) and the Butuan City-Cagayan-Iligan road.
When you pass by during the daytime, you’ll be amazed by the stunning views of the vast river and surrounding landscapes. In the evening, many locals hang out here and relax!
21. Nipa Wine Distillery
At Baranggay Babag in Butuan City, you’ll find the Nipa Wine Distillery. Here, they produce the local wine called “laksoy”, a favourite drink among Butuanons.
Unlike lambanog (coconut wine), laksoy’s main ingredient is nipa palm instead of coconut.
There are two types of laksoy: Class A made by indigenous people using traditional methods and Class B produced commercially with machines. Both have their unique flavours.
Actually, most old individuals only drink laksoy due to its distinctive taste, but trying some during y our visit won’t hurt.
If you’re curious about how this local drink tastes, be sure to include the Nipa Wine Distillery in your Butuan City itinerary and sample a shot!
22. Dagangdang Falls
Explore the Dagangdang Falls when you’re in Butuan. It’s another great tourist spot in Butuan City if you’re searching for a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
Dagangdang Falls is located in Brgy. Sumile and can be reached by taking a bus from Langihan Bus Terminal.
This beautiful spot features two waterfalls surrounded by a forest. You can enjoy swimming in its cool waters while witnessing the stunning scenery.
The best part is that it has a natural slide and a captivating cave. Don’t forget to bring some food too for a picnic!
Be ready for your Dagangdang Falls’ refreshing and thrilling adventure!
23. Masao Beach
Masao Beach are perhaps the most popular beaches in Butuan City, apart from its historical significance. This barangay is situated near the sea and boasts many beaches and resorts.
What makes Masao stand out is not its beautiful sea and scenery, but the unique experience of immersing yourself together with the locals and savouring the delicious food available all over the place!
To make the most of your beach time, you can enjoy drinking beer and singing karaoke. In addition to that, there are also boat tours available, ranging from ₱500 to ₱1,000.
Ordinary cottages here only cost around ₱200, which can already accommodate a family or group.
You can also opt to rent a room for a higher price, and there are various options for accommodation when you reach the place. It’s really easy to find one.
When you go there, you can choose to ride a tricycle or habal-habal. Just head near the Langihan Bus Terminal, where you’ll find a line of tricycles and habal-habal drivers waiting for passengers.
Masao is the perfect destination to have a memorable beach experience while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of the locals.
Best Time to Visit Butuan City
The best time to visit Butuan City is during the dry season from February to May. The weather is pleasant, with less rain and more sunny days, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and activities.
If you visit in May, you can catch the Balangay Festival, a vibrant celebration showcasing the city’s culture and history.
Butuan City is enjoyable year-round, so choose the time that suits your preference!
How to Get to Butuan City
✈️ By Plane
The fastest way to reach Butuan City is by taking a domestic flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) if you’re in Manila. Airports from major cities also offer flights to Butuan.
The flight duration is around 1.5 to 2 hours, and you’ll land at Bancasi Airport in Butuan. From there, various transportation options are readily available to take you to your accommodation.
🚢 By Ferry
Travelling by ferry to Butuan usually takes you 2 days and 1 night if you’re from North Harbor Pier 4. You will then arrive at the Nasipit Seaport Terminal in Nasipit, a neighbouring town of Butuan City.
Once you get there, you can choose to ride a multi-cab or taxi to safely transport you to the city centre or your hotel.
🌴 Land
Although not advisable for tourists, you can take a Philtranco bus from Manila if you want a scenic journey, passing through various places.
The trip usually takes around the same as travelling by ferry or more, with comfortable seating and air-conditioning provided.
I recommend checking the Philtranco bus schedule and terminal location in Manila before planning your trip.
For tourists residing in Davao, you can check out my full guide on this here: How to Travel from Davao to Butuan: The Ultimate Guide in 2025
Getting Around Butuan City
🛵 Habal-habal (scooter or motorcycle)
Habal-habal is a popular mode of transportation for passengers who want to get around Butuan City. It’s a motorcycle or scooter for hire.
This is a convenient and affordable option for short distances or reaching places where other vehicles may not go.
🛺 Tricycle
For a minimum fare of only ₱10, you can take the tricycles. They are three-wheeled vehicles (motorcycles with extended passenger seats) commonly used for commuting within the city.
They are readily available around Butuan and can take you to various destinations, offering a ride for a small group of passengers.
📢 Pro tip: Choose the orange if you’re just roaming around the city.
🚙 Multicab
Multicabs are small public utility vehicles commonly used for short-distance travel within Butuan City. They are bigger than tricycles and can accommodate more passengers.
The base fare is only ₱12, but can take you already to major parts of the city.
Note: These rides follow specific routes, so make sure to ask the driver or passengers if they’ll be passing by your destination. Don’t worry, the locals there are very much helpful, especially to tourists.
🚕 Taxi
Taxis are also available in Butuan City, if you need a more private and direct mode of transportation.
While they are slightly more expensive than other options, they provide a convenient and comfortable ride, especially for longer distances or specific destinations.
🚗 Car Rental
Renting a car in Butuan is another option for getting around the City.
This is a flexible option, and you can easily visit nearby towns and off-the-beaten-path locations not accessible by public transportation.
Just ensure you have a valid driver’s license, or if you don’t you can opt to hire a driver since some companies offer it too.
Where to Stay in Butuan City
🏨 Go Hotels Butuan
Go Hotels Butuan is a budget hotel right beside Robinson’s Place Butuan. This accommodation is ideal for solo travellers who want easy access to a popular mall and restaurants in Butuan City.
The location is very convenient, as it is along JC Aquino Avenue, a 20-minute drive from the airport. They offer free WiFi and parking. Breakfast is included too!
What makes it a perfect option for tourists is that behind the building are terminals of various public transportation options, so you don’t have to go far from your place when looking for a ride going to your destination.
🏨 Watergate Hotel
If you’re looking for a nice place to stay with a restaurant and bar, Watergate Hotel is the right choice.
This 4-star accommodation features an outdoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, and an airport shuttle. It is centrally located, near the Butuan National Museum.
It also provides room service, an ATM and currency exchange for guests.
🏨 Butuan Grand Palace Hotel
Butuan Grand Palace Hotel is a 5-star hotel in Butuan. It is great if you want to have a room equipped with a terrace.
The city centre is just a 5 to 10-minute ride from here and is close to two large shopping malls in the city.
They offer both Asian and American breakfasts, which makes the hotel famous for foreign visitors to Butuan City.
Tips for Visiting Butuan City
✅ Visit during the dry season (February to May) for pleasant weather.
✅ Experience the local culture at festivals like the Balangay Festival in May.
✅ Try delicious local delicacies like “laksoy” wine and Filipino dishes.
✅ Explore historical sites such as the Butuan National Museum and Balangay Shrine Museum.
✅ Use public transportation like tricycles to get around the city.
✅ Don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions from locals.
Frequently Asked Questions: Butuan City Tourist Spots
Final Thoughts: 23 Best Butuan City Tourist Spots
Butuan City isn’t just a city with many fascinating stories, but also home to many best tourist destinations.
From historical landmarks to scenic spots and vibrant local attractions, travelling to Butuan offers you a one-of-a-kind experience!
Add it your travel list, and embark on a journey filled with new discoveries and memorable moments. Start planning your trip to Butuan City today!
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About the Author
Hello there! I’m Mitch, the main writer of Philippine Hidden Gems! I’m a random Filipino who’s already explored many parts of the Philippines, especially the regions of Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga, where I was born and raised.
Apart from my goal to find more hidden gems in my country and share my discoveries with you, I also enjoy reading and writing, discovering new food, and coffee!
Join me as I show you the beauty of my homeland and why the Philippines should be your next destination!
