Things To Do
in Antequera
Antequera is a quiet town in the Philippines known for its laid-back vibe and friendly locals. Nestled among limestone hills and river valleys, it offers a gateway to simple, authentic experiences away from the crowds. Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, local snacks, and handcrafted souvenirs at the town market and plaza.
The area also serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby natural sights and cultural heritage sites in Bohol.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Antequera with a welcome breakfast of local manggang papel and coconut coffee at a quaint roadside stall. Gaze upon the centuries-old Nuestra Señora de la Portería church as villagers go about their daily routines. Feel the gentle hum of tricycles and the chatter of elders sharing stories under the acacia trees.
After checking into a cozy homestay near the town plaza, join a friendly guide for a walking tour of Antequera’s historic landmarks. Wander past the municipal hall and wave at children playing tag in the plaza. Sample freshly steamed suman from a vendor and learn about local customs.
As the sun sets, indulge in a hearty dinner of grilled tuna belly and pancit canton served with calamansi. Take an evening stroll beneath festoon lights strung between coconut palms. Drift to sleep to the lullaby of distant roosters and rustling banana leaves.
Head out at dawn to the famed Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, where emerald paddies cascade down steep slopes like a verdant staircase. Accompany a local farmer to learn about heirloom rice varieties and traditional planting methods. Capture the sunrise glinting on dew-laden fields in your camera.
Enjoy a picnic lunch of salted fish, rice, and fresh mangoes while overlooking panoramic mountain vistas. Explore hidden footpaths that wind through terraces carved by generations of cultivators. Chat with terrace caretakers about their daily rituals of irrigation and harvest.
Descend to the nearby barangay hall for a communal boodle fight featuring kinilaw and grilled shrimp. Share stories with terrace farmers under a sky illuminated by lanterns. Fall asleep listening to the rhythmic chirping of night insects.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $20-40 |
| 📱Local SIM card data plan | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace of life and warm, friendly locals
- Plentiful fresh seafood and market experiences
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Rural transport can be less predictable
- "Magandang araw" - Good day
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Puwede po" - Please / May I?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Antequera
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic church with a charming town square; great for daytime architecture shots and golden-hour photography.
Simple river banks offering reflections at sunset and calm morning light.
Outskirts of town where limestone formations rise, providing dramatic silhouettes at dawn.
Rugged limestone formations and rolling hills that frame panoramic countryside shots.
Food in Antequera
Antequera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi, chili, and onions; best at seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Crispy-roasted pig served with rice and liver sauce during gatherings and special meals.
Coconut-based sweet confection popular in Bohol; a must-try at markets and sweet shops.
Sticky rice cake served with hot chocolate; a comforting evening snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls offering fresh fish, seafood, vegetables, and local snacks.
Casual food stalls along the riverfront with grilled seafood and fried snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shoulders and knees should be covered; speak softly and remove hats.
Greet with a smile, use polite words like 'po' and 'opo' with elders; avoid raised voices in public.
Ask before taking photos of people or their homes; show respect in daily interactions.
It is common to remove shoes before entering some homes; always ask if unsure.
Safety
Tipping in Antequera
Ensure a smooth experience
In most restaurants, 10–15% is customary if a service charge isn’t included. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common.
Cash (Philippine peso) is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards and mobile wallets in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny and warm with lower humidity; ideal for outdoor exploring, beach trips, and hiking; daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (24–34°C).
Frequent brief downpours and higher humidity; plan for afternoon showers and occasional storms; landscapes are lush and green.
Antequera at Night
Hiking in Antequera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, moderate hike along limestone hills just outside town with panoramic views.
Easy trails through farms and riverbanks suitable for family-friendly hikes.
Airports
How to reach Antequera by plane.
Main regional airport on Panglao Island; about 20–30 km from Antequera; connected by road via Tagbilaran. Taxis and shuttle services available.
Major international hub serving the region; travel typically involves a longer road/ferry route from Antequera but offers the widest flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language groups with a strong sense of community and hospitality.
A large portion of residents participate in church activities and feast days.
Domestic travelers and occasional foreign visitors drawn by nature and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Philippines’ favorite sport, widely played in schools and local courts.
Common in community centers and backyards, especially in the dry season.
Traditional Filipino martial art taught in some communities and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antequera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, choose vegetable dishes and rice; ask for no fish sauce or meat; many places can prepare veggie‑friendly meals if you request.