travel itinerary example philippines

Ultimate Philippines Itinerary for 10 Days, 2 Weeks or 3 Weeks

The Philippines is a huge archipelago of over 7000 islands, so putting together the perfect Philippines itinerary means that you have a lot of different destinations to choose from.

Each island is different too, and while that means that there’s something for every type of traveler, it also means that it’s always a challenging crafting a Philippines itinerary. 

You need to factor in logistics, the time you have to explore, and whether you want to see beaches and palm trees, or smoking volcanoes and mountaintops.

We are here to help you sift through the overwhelm and share with you our thoughts and experience from several visits with a combined total of more than 3 months of traveling in the Philippines .

Without further ado, here’s our guide to planning the perfect Philippines itinerary, no matter the length of your trip. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Philippines (Country Guide)

Ultimate Philippines Itinerary

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit the Philippines

The Philippines has a very tropical climate, and the year is predominantly split into a wet and a dry season. The climate varies of course, with mountainous regions enjoying a cooler climate, and the beaches having fiercely hot summers. 

The dry season is the best time to enjoy your Philippines itinerary. It falls between November and May, and you can expect clear skies, clear waters for snorkeling, and little chance of rain. 

The wet season sees huge storms hitting the Philippines, and these will often turn into large and potentially destructive typhoons. The wet season, between June and November, is not a good time to explore the Philippines. 

Read more Best Time to Visit the Philippines: Month by Month Breakdown

Getting Around in the Philippines

This is a huge country, and with over 7000 islands spread out across a vast stretch of ocean, you’ll need to factor in some logistics when you’re planning your Philippines itinerary. 

The islands are spread over, and if you’ve only got two weeks, then you’ll need to fly between the major destinations. You can use Cebu or Manila as hubs, as from these airports you can reach almost any other city and island with either Air Asia, Philippines Airlines or Cebu Pacific.

If you’ve got longer, then you can take ferries and travel overland. Every island is connected by ferries, although these will vary in speed and level of comfort.

On land, you can take buses or minibusses between cities, while within cities you’ll either want to hire a tricycle or if you’re feeling adventurous, jump on a Jeepney. In Manila and Cebu, you’re best using the ride-hailing app Grab to get around quickly and safely. 

Costs and Budgets

The Philippines can be an inexpensive country to travel around, especially if you stick to local transport and food, and stay in dorms or budget hotels.

You can get away with spending as little as USD 20 a day, plus the cost of activities such as island hopping or snorkeling. 

On the other end of the spectrum, in destinations such as Boracay and even Manila, you can spend much more, and splurge on luxurious hotels and gourmet restaurants. 

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , which gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

Safety Tips in the Philippines

The Philippines has a mixed reputation when it comes to safety because this is a country that often makes it into the news for its admittedly frequent natural disasters and internal conflicts. 

Yes, there are insurgencies in the south, and yes, there are active volcanoes and a fierce typhoon season. But plan well, and keep an eye on the weather and you’ll stay out of trouble. 

Filipinos are some of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world, and you’ll soon find out why the country’s tourism slogan is ‘It’ s more fun in the Philippines’. 

Ideal 10 Day Philippines Itinerary

While these 10 days could be produced in more than a hundred varieties, I think it is important to note that we are building this route for first-time visitors to the Philippines.

This will include some of the most famous and popular places that you simply cannot miss when you come to the Philippines.

Of course, you’re free to substitute and head off to whatever places beckon to you, but no matter how you swing it, these places are a must.

10 Day Philippines Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Arrive in Manila – depending on time, do some afternoon sightseeing
• Day 2: Fly to Coron in the morning – explore the area or book an afternoon tour
• Day 3: Island Hopping tour around Coron Island
• Day 4: Island Hopping tour around nearby islands
• Day 5: Fly to Cebu in the morning
• Day 6: Cebu – take a day trip to Kawasan Falls
• Day 7: Fly to Caticlan and take the ferry to Boracay
• Day 8: Boracay
• Day 9: Fly to Manila in the morning – spend the day exploring the city and visiting its sites
• Day 10: Depart the Philippines

With 7,000 islands, the options are literally endless. That said, we’ve been many times and this will give you a good taste of the best.

While at first glance the Philippines look easy and you may think that you can see a lot of areas in 10 days, this is not the case. Logistics are something most people overlook when planning a Philippines itinerary.

There are very few islands that are connected to each other by flights. This means that to change islands, in most cases, you will have to fly back to Manila and then onwards to the new place. This also has to be done as segments and you will not be able to book the flights on one reservation.

This requires a lot of planning and sadly, a lot of time spent in airports, especially if you have luggage. As you have to collect and recheck on each segment.

So the overview we provided above is one of the most seamless ways to see a few of the most famous areas in the Philippines without having to fly back to Manila. You’re welcome!

Manila: 1 to 2 Days

Manila is the sprawling, chaotic and hectic capital of the Philippines, and while most travelers need to pass through here to get elsewhere, few actually hang around for too long. 

It’s not all traffic and smog though, and it’s well worth hanging around for at least a day or two to get under the skin of the Philippines’ largest city because this is where you’ll find history and heritage in abundance. 

Popular Things to See in Manila

Visit the old Spanish colonial city, Intramuros, where you can see the stone bastions that defended Manila for centuries, and delve deep into the local heritage. 

Unravel the historical threads of Philippine culture as you stroll Manila’s 16th-century walled city, Intramuros, with a guide . Hear how Manila evolved through Malay, Spanish, American, and Japanese eras; learn about pre-colonization peoples and the national hero Dr. José Rizal.

The financial hub of Makati is Manila’s trendiest district. It’s a great place to stay, and a great place for fusion food and craft beers when the sun goes down. 

Discover historical information you may have missed, on a private half-day tour of Makati , a great introduction for first-time visitors. Check off highlights such as San Agustin Church and Museum, Rizal Park and Shrine, Fort Santiago and Intramuros, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

No other district in Manila can beat Binondo when it comes to food. This is Manila’s Chinatown, and it’s an epic world of food, markets, and culture. 

Read more 15 Awesome Things to Do in Manila (Itinerary for First Time Visitors )

Coron: 3 to 4 Days

Travel to Coron to find one of the most spectacular places in the country. No Philippines itinerary is complete without at least 3 days in Coron, but to see everything, you’ll need to save as much as a week to explore. 

Coron is rapidly growing into a top destination, but it still remains beautifully rustic, and in many places, totally uncrowded too. There are towering limestone cliffs, clear freshwater lagoons, and remote, isolated islands . 

Popular Things to See in Coron

KAYANGAN LAKE

The most popular tourist attraction in Coron is Kayangan Lake . This beautiful, freshwater lake is steeped in local legend and is refreshingly clear and cool to swim in. 

Book this great full-day tour that takes in all the island’s highlights, including snorkeling at the Siete Pecados Marine Park and Coral Eden, a boat cruise around Kayangan Lake, and swimming at the Twin Lagoons, plus a delicious seafood lunch on Calachuchi Beach.

MOUNT TAPYAS

For a view over the islands, then hike up the steps that lead from Coron Town to the summit of Mount Tapyas. It’s the best spot in Coron for sunset. 

PASS ISLAND

Head to Pass Island to find one of Coron’s most remote, yet spectacular destinations. Maroon yourself on Pass Island, where you can enjoy white sands and relaxed Island vibes. 

Read more Coron Palawan: Itinerary & Best Things to D o

Cebu: 2 to 3 Days

Cebu is home to the Philippines’ second city, Cebu City, but away from the metropolis, it’s a verdant, green paradise brimming with waterfalls and beaches. 

Popular Things to See in Cebu

If you’ve ever wanted to swim with shoals of hundreds of thousands of sardines, then take a trip to Moal Boal. Jump into the water off the beach and you’ll be immersed in the sardine runs. 

KAWASAN FALLS

Head to Kawasan Falls, where you can find the most spectacular waterfall in the Philippines. You can swim in turquoise plunge pools, or jump from towering cliffs into the water far below. 

If you are looking for an adrenaline-filled tour, no trip to Cebu is complete without visiting the Kawasan Canyon. Explore the canyon in a safe and secure environment during a full-day excursion from Cebu in a small group .

Jump into pools from heights of up to 30 feet (9 meters) and swim through caves and rivers. Plus, you’ll hike through the forest and enjoy lunch at Kawasan Falls.

Boracay: 2 to 3 Days

The most famous island in the Philippines is Boracay. This is the original tropical paradise, where you can find white sand beaches and fiery sunsets. 

But Boracay suffered from over-tourism and was forced to close for 6 months for a massive cleanup. It’s reopened though, and the future looks bright. 

Popular Things to See in Boracay

WHITE BEACH

The most iconic place in Boracay is White Beach. This long stretch of sand is glorious, and one of the most famous beaches in the Philippines. 

D’MALL

Head to D’Mall, just off the beach, where you can find Boracay’s best bars and restaurants. 

ISLAND HOPPING

Boracay has great beaches and is surrounded by great islands and snorkeling spots. The best way to explore is to join an island hopping tour. 

Read more 15 Essential Things to Do in Boraca y

Ideal 2 Week Philippines Itinerary

Using the initial 10-day itinerary as our base from above, we are going to build on that for the 2 week Philippines itinerary.

Honestly, it won’t look a whole lot different, with the exception of adding additional destinations. As I’ve already mentioned, the biggest hurdle is logistics in the Philippines.

So you want to plan your itinerary in a way that minimizes your time on airplanes, in airports and instead maximizes your time out adventuring.

With that said, I want to show your two viable options to maximize your 2 week Philippines itinerary below. There is no right answer, it truly depends on your interests.

2 Week Philippines Itinerary Overview – OPTION A:

• Day 4: Island Hopping tour or start 5-day sea expedition to El Nido
• Day 5: Fly to El Nido
• Day 6: El Nido
• Day 7: Travel overland to Puerto Princesa
• Day 8: Puerto Princesa
• Day 9: Fly to Cebu in the morning
• Day 10: Cebu – take a day trip to Kawasan Falls
• Day 11: Fly to Caticlan and take the ferry to Boracay
• Day 12: Boracay
• Day 13: Fly to Manila in the morning – spend the day exploring the city and visiting its sites
• Day 14: Depart the Philippines

2 Week Philippines Itinerary Overview – OPTION B:

• Day 4: Island Hopping tour
• Day 5: Fly to Bohol in the morning
• Day 6: Bohol/ Panglao
• Day 7: Bohol/ Panglao
• Day 8: Ferry to Cebu
• Day 9: Cebu – take a day trip to Kawasan Falls
• Day 10: Cebu – island tour

As your Philippines itinerary gets longer, you’ll be required to navigate trickier logistics. With 2 weeks, though, you can still be pretty fluid and avoid going back to Manila between islands on both of the above itineraries.

Taking island hopping day tours and utilizing local ferries in each of these destinations will allow you to explore more of the area, as well.

Palawan 4 to 5 Days

To the south of Coron, you can find Palawan, an island that’s often been called the Last Frontier of the Philippines. While many places here are far from untouched now, few places can match Palawan for raw beauty. 

Visit El Nido for parties and island hopping, head to Puerto Princesa for beaches and underground rivers, or travel far south to get really off the beaten track. 

Popular Things to See in Palawan

Located on the northern tip of Palawan, El Nido is a must-visit for any Philippines itinerary.

A sleepy little fishing village has grown into the number one backpacking spot in the Philippines, and once you start island hopping, you’ll soon understand why. 

Enjoy the beautiful coastline scenery on this full-day sightseeing cruise from El Nido . Relax onboard the boat while traveling around the islands and beaches of Bacuit Bay.

This includes 7 Commando Beach, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon. Stop for swimming and snorkeling using the provided equipment, and refuel midday with a buffet lunch.

Read more Essential El Nido Palawan Guide

PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER

Close to Palawan’s largest city, you can find an unusual UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Underground River is a remarkable network of waterways that have carved a route through limestone rocks. 

Visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, and paddle down the Puerto Princesa Underground River on this 8-hour tour .

Board a boat at the mouth of the cave at Sabang Wharf, and stop at the Buenavista viewpoint for views of the Ulugan Bay.

Located far south, Balabac is about as off the beaten track as you can go in Palawan. Think raw Island scenery and untouched beaches. 

Read more 15 Stunning Things to Do in Palawan, Philippine s

Bohol: 2 to 3 Days

Bohol is the perfect place to visit if you’re putting together your first Philippines itinerary. 

You can visit the famed Chocolate Hills, hang out on Alona Beach, and island-hop to beautiful natural spots. 

Popular Things to See in Bohol

CHOCOLATE HILLS

One of the most famous places in the Philippines, no one should miss out on these legendary chocolate-colored hilltops. 

Enjoy a full-day tour of Bohol Island while traveling with an informative guide around the stunning island. Relax during a lunch cruise on the Loboc River.

Here you’ll have the opportunity to spot indigenous Philippine tarsiers, some of the smallest primates in the world, and then take in the Chocolate Hills from several vantage points.

ALONA BEACH

Found on Panglao Island, Alona Beach is the best place to stay in Bohol. White sands, fiery sunsets, and great snorkeling and diving opportunities. 

Read more 24 Bohol Tourist Spots & Things to Do That You Cannot Mis s

Ideal 3 Week Philippines Itinerary

Continuing to build off the above itineraries, we have an additional week to play with when we consider a 3 week Philippines itinerary. In my opinion, you still want to avoid routing back through Manila, if at all possible.

However, with a 3-week itinerary, you’re going to find yourself flying back through either Manila or Cebu to access some other places.

Unless, of course, you choose to use your additional week to extend your stays in Coron, El Nido/Palawan, Cebu, Boracay or Bohol. All of which are perfectly acceptable options.

If you want to know the truth, we’d happily spend 3 solid weeks just in Palawan! So each to their own, but there is still plenty to check out in the Philippines, so don’t be shy about island hopping either.

3 Week Philippines Itinerary Overview – OPTION A:

• Day 2: Take Bus & Ferry to Puerto Galera
• Day 3: Puerto Galera
• Day 4: Puerto Galera – afternoon ferry/bus to Manila
• Day 5: Fly to Coron in the morning – explore the area or book an afternoon tour
• Day 6: Island Hopping tour around Coron Island
• Day 7: Island Hopping tour or start 5-day sea expedition to El Nido
• Day 8: Fly to El Nido
• Day 9: El Nido
• Day 10: Travel overland to Puerto Princesa
• Day 11: Puerto Princesa
• Day 12: Fly to Cebu in the morning
• Day 13: Cebu – take a day trip to Kawasan Falls
• Day 14: Fly to Siargao
• Day 15: Siargao
• Day 16: Siargao
• Day 17: Fly to Cebu and overnight
• Day 18: Fly to Caticlan and take the ferry to Boracay
• Day 19: Boracay
• Day 20: Fly to Manila in the morning – spend the day exploring the city and visiting its sites
• Day 21: Depart the Philippines

3 Week Philippines Itinerary Overview – OPTION B:

• Day 11: Fly to Siargao
• Day 12: Siargao
• Day 13: Siargao
• Day 14: Fly to Cebu and overnight
• Day 15: Fly to Caticlan and take the ferry to Boracay
• Day 16: Boracay
• Day 17: Boracay
• Day 18: Ferry to Caticlan and fly to Manila
• Day 19: Manila – spend the day exploring the city and visiting its sites
• Day 20: Manila – day trip to Taal Volcano

A 3-week Philippines itinerary, no doubt, will give you a solid amount of time to see some of the best areas of the Philippines. You’ll get into multiple provinces and regions while having a nice balance of beaches, islands and adventure.

It is possible to venture further afield, and of course, there are still plenty of places in the Philipines that are worth a visit, even though they are not mentioned above.

Puerto Galera: 2 to 3 Days

Located just a short journey to the south of Manila, you can quickly escape the urban jungle with a trip to Puerto Galera.

Take a ferry from Batangas to the island of Mindoro, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, jungle-clad waterfalls, and excellent snorkeling and diving. 

Popular Things to See in Puerto Galera

The best beach in Puerto Galera is White Beach, known for its perfect white sands. 

Head inland to explore the crashing, towering waterfalls of Puerto Galera. 

SNORKELING & DIVING

Puerto Galera is surrounded by world-class reefs, and an unbelievable level of biodiversity is awaiting you beneath the waves. 

It is also a fantastic place to get your PADI scuba certification. So if you want to do some diving in the Philippines, or need a refresher course, Puerto Galera is a fantastic place to do this.

Read more Ultimate Puerto Galera Philippines Guide: Diving & Beache s

Siargao: 3 to 4 Days

Siargao is the most up and coming island in the Philippines. Made famous by Instagrammers showing off the rustic jungles and glorious beaches, this is a place where tourism is only going to increase. 

It’s also well known for its surfing opportunities and laid back island vibe. This has made it a popular backpacker hangout, but even is that isn’t your style, you should still add it to your list.

Popular Things to See in Siargao 

Siargao is the Philippines’ best-known surf spot, and there are plenty of great breaks to test your skills on. 

There’s not just one island here though, there are hundreds, and the best way to explore is on an island-hopping trip. 

Visit General Luna, Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island on a full-day tour of the Siargao Island area from Manila . Learn about the culture, history, and ecosystem of each distinct island through guided commentary as you travel.

Have More Time?

Check out Backpacking in the Philippines: 4 Week Recap & Travel Tips

Philippines Scuba Diving Itinerary

The Philippines is a scuba diving mecca, so I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention this aspect for building a Philippines itinerary. If it is the world-class scuba diving that you seek, then your itinerary is going to look a lot different.

This has a lot to do with the stipulations about flying after diving. So you have to be very thoughtful about how you layout your itinerary.

The best diving in the Philippines is found around Palawan and Cebu. This means you will want to plan your itinerary to maximize time under the water in these regions and utilize the ferry services that run to the various dive areas from the hubs of Coron and Cebu.

Overview of the Best Scuba Diving Locations:

• Puerto Galera

Beginners or people that wish to get their PADI Open Water certification should look to places like Puerto Galera and Coron. Both places are also great options for getting your PADI Advanced Open Water certification.

Experienced divers will want to head to Coron to dive on WWII shipwrecks before heading to Cebu, where they can access world-famous dive sites in Malapascua, Dumaguete and Panglao, to name a few.

As you can see, the places mentioned vary a bit from those listed in the more standard itineraries above. Of course, if you’re scuba diving for fun, you’ll be able to find great diving almost anywhere in the country.

Putting it All Together

As I’ve said multiple times, there are hundreds of possible outcomes for building a Philippines itinerary that works for you. There is no right or wrong way to do it.

Where you go and what you do will have a lot to do with how much time you have and your budget. It is possible to experience the Philippines as a backpacker on a budget, in a high-end luxury way and everything in between.

Feel free to share your Philippines itinerary ideas and questions below!

More on the Philippines:

• 30 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines
• Best Time to Visit the Philippines: Month by Month Breakdown
• 25 Amazing Drone Photos of the Philippines
• Culion Island Palawan: Is This the Next Philippines Hot Spot?
• Busuanga Island Palawan: Ultimate Guide to the Last Frontier
• Calauit Safari Park: African Animals Roam Free in the Philippines?
• How to Get From Manila to Puerto Galera
• 30 Philippines Pictures To Inspire Your Next Vacation

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Ultimate Philippines Travel Itinerary: 3-4 Weeks Itinerary

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2023

Categories PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is one of the most amazing tropical locations to travel around. From beaches to waterfalls to hikes you are going to enjoy non-stop adventures. There are literally hundreds of amazing islands to visit but for this itinerary, I have chosen the most popular spots such as. Cebu, Bohol, El Nido, and Coron.

This Philippines Travel Itinerary starts off in Cebu City but you could land into Manila. There will likely be many things you change from this itinerary and I have tried to make it very simple and not on a strict timeline. That’s how it goes in the Philippines. Often you hear about a waterfall or get invited on an island hopping trip you hadn’t planned on. It’s best to have a plan but don’t be too strict on your timeline.

I’ve also included some handy travel tips for the Philippines at the bottom of this Philippines Travel Itinerary .

Wondering what  Camera and Photography Gear  I take all my photos with while traveling around the world?   Click Here  to view my detailed guide about all of the gear I use and recommend for travel photography.

My travel insurance:  One last thing before you get started! Have you got your travel insurance yet? You can  Click Here  to find out how I get the best deal on travel insurance, which insurance recommend using in Southeast Asia and why I never travel without it. * This blog post involves photos of my bike crash .

What to pack for the Philippines?:  After four trips to the Philippines, there are  some items you NEED to pack . You can  Click Here  to view my recommended Philippines Packing List.

Table of Contents

THE ULTIMATE PHILIPPINES TRAVEL ITINERARY

Land at Cebu Airport

Take Public Transport directly to Alegria: 4 hours

• Taxi to Cebu South Bus Terminal: $4
• Bus to Matutinao $4
• Bus to Alegria $2

If you want to book a transfer from Cebu Airport in advance Click Here for the most recommended (and cheapest) private taxi service from the airport to South Cebu.

ALEGRIA (or Moalboal, which is an alternative town nearby)

Why you should stay in Alegria: Alegria is the perfect base to start your adventures. In this region are several key tourist attractions and epic adventures. The most well-known attraction in this area and one of the must-see spots in the Philippines is Kawasan Falls. Alegria is also close to Mainit Hot Springs and is a good jump-off spot for the sunrise trek up Osmena Peak.

How long to stay: I recommend two days in Alegria. One day to do the canyoneering adventure from Badian to Kawasan Falls and one day to do the Osmena Peak hike for sunrise and Mainit Hot Springs later in the day. There are other waterfalls accessible by bus but those are the three key spots to visit nearby Alegria.

Where to stay: I stayed at an awesome accommodation for super Cheap and highly recommend this spot. For $7 USD a night we stayed at D’Allegre Travellers Inn , a wooden guest house that rose above the ocean on stilts. Each night the sunset over the ocean from our patio and we couldn’t help but feel we were underpaying for our accommodation.

What to do:

• Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls

While still staying in Alegria we visited a town just north called Badian. Famous for the spectacularly blue Kawasan Falls . We planned to do a canyoneering adventure from Alegria to Kawasan that cost about $25 USD. After a few communication breakdowns with tour agents, we were finally taken to a village in the jungle where locals had a community discussion for about twenty minutes over who would be our guides. In the end, four young guys in jeans and flip-flops took the lead and we began our canyoneering adventure.

My Recommended and the TOP-RATED Kawasan Falls Canyoneering tour in Cebu for under $40:  Click Here to book

This was definitely a highlight of the Philippines backpacking trip. The adventure began by jumping into the vibrant blue water of the river. From that point on we floated, jumped and climbed our way down the river.

All the time guided brilliantly by our expert local guides. The highest jumps were 50ft but they were optional. The highest jump that everybody had to make to continue the course was only about 10-15 feet.

Halfway through the tour, our guides let us loose as it was mostly just walking and wading in the water to come. We didn’t need any more guidance about where to land or how to stay safe, so we spent the next hour nomadically exploring the canyons.

After 4 hours we finally arrived at Kawasan Falls and celebrated by finishing the day of canyoneering with one last 45 ft jump into Kawasan Second Falls.

View Full blog post:   CANYONEERING AT KAWASAN FALLS

• Freedriving or Snorkeling with the Sardine Balls in Moalboal

In Moalboal town, just 30m from shore, you can swim out in the water and dive down. What you will find is tens of thousands of sardines, clustered in what they call ‘balls’. The sardines all move in unison and it is a truly unique experience to watch this natural phenomenom.

You can rent the snorkel gear for a few dollars from any of the local scuba shops but don’t pay for a tour. You literally swim out 20m from the scuba shops and you are right there. If you can’t swim well maybe you will pay for a lifejacket and a guide.

• Mainit Hot Spring in Malabuyoc

A 15-minute bus ride away from D’Allegre (costing less than $1) you will head to Mainit Hot Springs. A short walk through the jungle and you will arrive at some amazing hot springs, surrounded by lush greenery and a waterfall.

The Hot Springs were steaming. So hot we could hardly sit in some of the springs which ranged from 38-42 degrees Celsius. Set in a rainforest just beyond a local village we could feel this was just the beginning of an amazing trip

Need more information? Here is my detailed blog post:   MAINIT HOT SPRINGS IN MALABUYOC

• Sunrise hike at Osmena Peak

Our next adventure began at 3:30 am the next morning. Jorden and I crammed onto the back of a motorbike with our expert driver. An hour cruise in the dark through the mountains and a complete loss of feeling in my butt had us arriving at the base of Osmena Peak in Guadalupe .

The Peak is known for having amazing panoramic views across jagged cliff lines and the ocean. We were told it would be best for sunrise and we were left speechless by the scene from the summit of the short 20-minute trek.

Need more information? Here is my detailed blog post:  OSMEÑA PEAK IN CEBU

• Waterfall chasing

Near Alegria and Moalboal you will find so many amazing waterfalls. I have listed a number of them below and you can click these links to find out more detailed information about them. They are all able to be reached by motorbike or tricycle from Moalboal/Alegria towns. You can’t really go wrong with what one you choose to fit in your schedule.

If you have time you can actually do Dao, Binalayan, and Aguinid all in one day but Inambakan and Kabutongan take about half a day minimum.

View full blog post about:  Dao Waterfall trek

View full blog post about:  Binalayan Waterfall

View full blog post about:  Inambakan Falls

View full blog post about:  Aguinid Falls

View full blog post about:  Kabutongan Falls

To get around Alegria/Moalboal you can walk to all of the restaurants nearby, which are within a 2-3km distance. Tricycles will regularly pass by, which will take you a couple of kilometers for a dollar or two if you prefer not to walk.

Tricycles can also transit you from town to town for journeys more than an hour and will cost from $5 upwards depending on your destination.

The south end of Cebu has one main road that runs along the coast. You can get on a bud that is going in the right direction and you just need to yell when you want to get off. You will pay from $1-5 depending on how long you rode the bus.

Alegria to Oslob: To transit from Alegria to Oslob you can take the bus or a private tricycle. The private tricycle cost $10 USD for the journey split by two of us.

Why you should stay in Oslob: Oslob has long been known as the whale-shark capital of the Philippines. It processes the most tourist swims with whale sharks in the entire country. However, because the procedure at Oslob involves feeding the whale sharks and can be intrusive to their environment it is definitely a contentious issue. Having said that, there is still a reason to travel to Oslob aside from the whale sharks.

Without going into too much depth. The whale sharks are better off than when they were being hunted. They are also better off now than 2 years ago when the whale shark tourism was a circus. Oslob now has pretty strict rules and while it is definitely not perfect it is getting better every year and the sharks are not harassed or touched.. only fed.

Sumilon island is a short boat trip away and it is also a good base for your transfer to Bohol, the local way. There are also several waterfalls in the area if you do stay more than one day in Oslob such as Tumalog Falls.

How long to stay: 1-2 nights

Where to stay: I stayed at a cheap hostel right next to the beach. From here I took a day-trip out to Sumilon Island. The hostel was called Sharky Hostel and was only $8 per night for a dorm room.

There are also multiple higher-end accommodations right on the beach in Oslob such as Sascha’s Resort , which has a pool and a really fun atmosphere if you want to splash a little more cash.

• Visit Sumilon Island

The boat ride to Sumilon island is only 15 or so minutes and I drove the boat for five or so minutes in the middle of the ocean. Music was playing on board and everyone was having a great time.

The tour to Sumilon Island costs about $15 per person return trip and runs for about half a day depending on your tour. Once you are at the island, you can relax, hang out in the crystal clear water, unwind and enjoy your isolated island looking back towards Oslob.

You can actually book a day-tour to Sumilon Island to visit the sandbar and snorkel spots. You can click here to book your tour to Sumilon Island

View the full blog post here:  SUMILON ISLAND PHOTO BLOG

• Tumalog Falls

Tumalog Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls on Cebu. You can swim here and enjoy the morning after swimming with the whale sharks. It only costs $1 for entry and is just a 10-minute drive from the whale shark area.

• Swim with Whale Sharks

The experience costs about $20 if you are already in Oslob. If you are in Cebu City you can CLICK HERE for the number one rated tour, which includes a fully guided day tour that also includes Kawasan Falls. This tour will pick you up from your hotel in Cebu City and show you all the sights including the whale shark experience.

To get around Oslob you can walk to all of the restaurants nearby, which are within a 1km distance. Tricycles will regularly pass by, which will take you a couple of kilometers for a dollar or two if you prefer not to walk.

The south end of Cebu has one main road that runs along the coast. You can get on a bud that is going in the right direction and just yell when you want to get off. You will pay from $1-5 depending on how long you rode the bus.

Oslob to Bohol: To transit from Oslob Bohol you have several options. There is the budget option, which is a $5 seat on a local fishing boat that goes straight from Oslob to Bohol. It won’t be advertised anywhere and some people might tell you it’s not possible.

Essentially it is possible if someone is going that route. If not they probably won’t consider it worth it for $5. But for an extra $5 if a fishing boat is already going to Bohol they will throw you in for some extra cash. Doing this transit saves you from the inconvenience of the second option.

You can ask around at your accommodation or key local figures if it is possible to take a boat to Bohol and they will point you in the right direction but there is currently no tour operator offering such a service. There is often a ferry direct to Bohol from Oslob now but it is not guaranteed.

The second option is to take the bus all the way back to Cebu ferry terminal, which takes over two hours and then to catch a ferry all the way to Bohol, which takes another two hours, not including waiting periods. Essentially you will lose a day of your travels if you have to go back to Cebu City and you will be waiting on hot buses.

Why you should stay in Bohol: Bohol is an amazing little island with so many draw-cards. The biggest drawcard is the world-famous Chocolate Hills. However, other attractions are the epic waterfalls of Bohol.

The island is also home to a unique animal, the incredibly tiny and cute Tarsier. A man-made tree tunnel, island hopping, scuba dive scene, and reggae beach bars make Bohol an action-packed part of your Philippines trip!

How long to stay: 4-5 nights

Where to stay:  

Bohol Beach Club – Luxury: It’s everything you would expect from a luxury resort in a tropical location. It’s beachside with amazing pools, bars and chill-out areas. Right near the restaurants, bars and action of Alona Beach but hidden away so that you can relax after a day of island-hopping or adventures.

Venezia Suites – Value: The Venezia Suits present the best value on Bohol. If you are looking for luxury but only want to spend mid-range often you need to get lucky. Venezia will hook you up with a beautiful suite that comes with a pool and living space. It’s a damn good deal and located right near all the action of Panglao so you are in a good spot.

HM & B Backpackers Inn : As a backpacker generally you check price, location and cleanliness. HM & B ticks all those boxes as one of the cheapest hostels near Alona Beach but also maintains good reviews, cleanliness and is pretty cheap compared to everything else near Alona Beach.

If you want to have a look for yourself you can click here to jump over to Booking.com to check out all of the accommodation options for Bohol.

• Chocolate Hills

Chocolate Hills wasn’t quite as impressive as I had imagined and we were a little underwhelmed after such a long day of driving, it was still an interesting landscape. It is constantly rated as one of the best things to do on Bohol and even one of the best places to visit in the Philippines. Maybe my expectations were so high because of how many people had recommended it.

The sunset wasn’t prolific, but that’s the luck of the draw. It was a beautiful view and a type of landscape I had never laid eyes on before. The drive home in the dark was a crazy experience, which I also don’t suggest if you aren’t up for a challenge.

I think the key here is that in the rainy season the hills are a little less chocolate and a little more green. It was still an amazing landscape and any adventure on Bohol is fun. I had just seen a few photos online where the brown of the hills was very distinct and as you can see it wasn’t quite like that in reality when I visited. It’s a long drive from Alona Beach, so if you are staying there, make sure you plan a few other spots along the way like Twin Falls in Dimi Ao or the Tarsier sanctuary to make the journey worth it.

One of the best ways to visit Chocolate Hills is with a Bohol Countryside Tour . This tour is great because you get to do a lot just in one day for under $30! In just one day your countryside tour will take you to the following places.

• Visit the historical Blood Compact Shrine, and learn about the story behind its name
• Marvel at the Neoclassical architecture of the Baclayon Church, which was completed in 1727
• See the world-famous Chocolate Hills with its 1,268 cone-shaped hills that turn brown in the summer
• Stroll through the beautiful Bilar Manmade Forest, a mahogany forest stretching in 2 kilometers long
• Enjoy a delicious local buffet lunch on a floating restaurant that cruises through the Loboc River
• Meet the tarsiers at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, which was built to protect the world’s smallest primates

To book your countryside tour, (I think it is the best value tour you will find on Bohol!) you can Click Here to book online.

 Read the full blog post:   CHOCOLATE HILLS – WAS THE JOURNEY WORTH IT?

Twin Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls on the island of Bohol. Two giant falls pour down into a giant pool. It’s a great spot for exploring with rocks, ledges, and bridges throughout the area. The entrance was free on the day I went but this may have changed as often waterfalls have an entrance fee of a couple of dollars.

• Hinagdanan Cave

Hinagdanan Cave is on the way to all of the waterfalls, Chocolate Hills and pretty much everything from Alona Beach. It is overflowing with tourists most of the time but somehow we entered the cave and we enjoyed it all to ourselves for a good fifteen minutes before more than 40 nervous tourists huddled around the pool as we backflipped and dove into the crystal clear water.

It costs $3 to enter the caves and is about 30 minutes drive away from Alona Beach

• Balicasag Island Hopping

Balicasag Island is a small island with amazing water clarity and coral gardens for snorkeling. There were plenty of turtles swimming amongst the coral and swarms of colorful fish.

One of the turtles we swam with was enormous. Use my friend Jorden as a scale. Even having lived in Hawaii for two years I never saw a turtle quite that big. A huge wall drops off about fifty meters from the shore, which was a fun spot to do some free-diving exploration.

The Day trip begins with dolphin watching near Bohol and then heads to Balicasag for snorkeling before finishing at Virgin Island, which is a sandbar.  If you want to book this tour online in advance you can check the rates and availability of the top-rated tour by Clicking Here .

Read the full blog post:   VIRGIN ISLAND BOHOL & BALICASAG ISLAND DAYTRIP

• Man-Made Tree Tunnel

While I was expecting a scene a little more magnificent the drive through the man-made forest is worth the journey if you are heading north from Alona Beach. Gigantic trees create a natural tunnel. Crickets and birds chirp incessantly as you make your way through the long tunnel. Entrance is free as this is just a regular road you will likely need to use to get to Chocolate Hills.

To get around Bohol you can walk to all of the restaurants nearby on Alona beach, which are within a 1km distance.

The best thing to do is to rent a moped or motorbike. For $25, we rented a motorbike for 5 days while we were in Bohol and it gave us the freedom to explore all of the attractions at our leisure.

You could also rent a car or join a tour group if you prefer not to ride a motorbike.

Bohol to El Nido: This is a rough transit. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many ways around this. You are switching regions completely but after this big transit, it will only be short transits from this point forward.

You will need to take a taxi for $10 to Tagbilaran ferry port and catch the ferry from Tagbilaran, Bohol to Cebu City. It takes 2 hours and costs $15.

From Cebu City, you will fly to Puerto Princesa and then the fun part begins. You have a 6-hour van ride, crammed in with other tourists to reach El Nido. The van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido costs $15-20 USD. The van will drop you 10 minutes outside of El Nido town and you can take a tricycle for a few dollars into the town to find your accommodation.

So most people fly into Puerto and then head to either El Nido for the island hopping or to Sabang to see the famous underground river. For both of these destinations, you will book a seat in a shared van unless you are fancy with your own private car. This is a Philippines backpacking guide so I will assume you are choosing the van. The links below let you book the van online the night before and are about the same as the price you will find from the guy on the street who likely won’t have an A/C fan or will cram an extra tourist in the car.

How to get to Sabang from Puerto Princesa: Click here

How to get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa: Click here

You can do this all in one day if you organize everything correctly and there are no delays. So essentially, you can make it from Bohol in the morning to El Nido in the evening if everything goes to plan.

Why you should stay in El Nido: El Nido is one of the most amazing spots in the world. The island hopping in El Nido is some of the best I have ever done in the world. It is getting a little crowded these days but it is still beautiful and well worth the visit.

How long to stay: 3-5 nights

Where to stay: I stayed at the Spin Designer Hoste l.  The vibes at this hostel were about adventuring during the day and partying at night. The staff helped to book tours cheaper than the vendors on the street and gave discounts if you did multiple tours. If you are looking for a fun and cheap time you can’t go past Spin Designer Hostel . Make sure to book in advance as El Nido does get booked out.

I was lucky enough to experience Tour A and Tour   C , but I am sure Tour B and D would be awesome as well. In fact, even the day I paddled out on a kayak was amazing so don’t stress about which letter will be the best. It’s El Nido, you are going to be visiting lagoons and beaches that will blow your mind.

I photographed the entire Tour A experience and will now spend the next few paragraphs convincing you why your life needs an El Nido island hopping experience.

El Nido Tour A is the most popular tour as it combines lagoons, snorkeling, and secret beaches.

To book your EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING A TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Three Lagoons at Miniloc Island, Shimizu Island, Snorkel with turtles at Seven Commando Beach, BBQ Lunch

To book your EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING B TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, BBQ Lunch

To book your  EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING C TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, BBQ Lunch

To book your  EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING D TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Cadlao Island, Pasandingan Beach, Small Lagoon, Natnat Beach, BBQ Lunch
• Island Hopping Tour A

As you walk down the street in El Nido Proper, passing by smoothie and barbecue vendors you will be eyed down by tour operators trying to invite you on to Tour A,B,C or D. Throughout your time on El Nido you will become fluent in what each letter represents. The island hopping tours should cost no more than $15 and include a barbecued lunch!

Seven Commando Beach: Coconut trees lined the beach and we, of course, sipped a few on after a quick snorkel. The rocks in El Nido are incredibly sharp almost all over the region, so wear shoes if you are planning on exploring in caves and on rocks like us.

Big Lagoon: Cruising up the lagoon was our first real look at how dramatic the cliffs and landscape was in El Nido. The lagoon has a narrow and the boats manage to navigate alongside each other as everyone on board arches their necks checking out the intense cliffs. The boat glides across the glassy water, almost crystal as the narrow entrance finally opens up into a giant lagoon. The boat did a slow circle in the lagoon letting us take in the sights before heading back out the narrow stretch.

Lunch at Shimizu Island: Our guides had been cooking on the grill all morning as we cruised around from island to island. It was time to see what they had produced. It was an absolute feast.

I’ll be honest I’ve been on some tours where you get a cruddy sandwich and a bag of chips. This blew it out of the water. Grilled pork and chicken, fresh grilled fish and fruits and of course an abundance of rice.

There was plenty for everyone as we sat around on the logs watching monitor lizards amongst the trees. A bit of exploration post-lunch never hurts and we found a very shallow spot for a couple of jumps.

Secret Lagoon: This spot was amazing but probably my least favorite as there were more than fifty tourists crammed into a tiny lagoon at once. We had to swim to a small hole and clamber through. One through sun shone down into a tennis court-sized lagoon, totally enclosed by sharp cliffs. It was a great spot but a little bit of an anti-climax.

However, the beach around the corner once back out of the lagoon was really cool. The landscape here was by far my favorite spot of the day and I camped on my favorite spot at the front of the tour boat as we left.

Small Lagoon: Our last stop of the day would be the small lagoon. By now I had become a bit desensitized to the majestic beauty all around me. But the small lagoon hit another chord. We were offered kayaks as we arrived but also given the option to swim. It wasn’t too far just a few hundred yards both ways.

Swimming through this lagoon was beautiful, calming and a great way to end the day. We went as far in as we could and just spend a while floating on our backs taking in everything around us.

• Sunset Kayak

One of the best things to do is to rent a kayak and paddle out to Paradise Beach and Pasadingan Island. It is quite an intense workout but you get the tranquility and isolation that you might not get on the island hopping tours. If you can manage to stay out on the water during sunset you will be in for a treat!

• Nacpan Beach Moped Adventure

Rent a motorbike or moped for $7-10 in El Nido Town and head out towards Nacpan Beach, which is about an hours drive away. Along the drive, there is a waterfall to visit if you wish. Nacpan Beach is a palm-tree lined beach with an epic viewpoint, chilled vibes and famous shrimp plates!

To get around El Nido you can walk to all of the restaurants nearby El Nido Town, which is within a 1km distance.

The best thing to do is to rent a moped or motorbike for at least one day. For $5, we rented a motorbike for the day while we were in El Nido and drove to nearby beaches.

El Nido to Coron: The best budget route from El Nido to Coron is the ferry. It isn’t the most fun journey but it is definitely the cheapest.

You can buy your ticket directly at the ferry terminal near the town or your hotel/hostel will organize it for you for an extra $1-2. The ferry fee is $20 and includes a lunch. The trip takes about five hours in total.

Why you should stay in Coron: Coron is as epic as El Nido. The cliffs, lagoons, islands and beaches are out of this world. You will find it hard to enjoy another beach again after your time in Coron! Coron is definitely going to be one of the big highlights in this one month Philippines travel itinerary.

How long to stay: 3-4 nights

Where to stay: Busuanga Bay Lodge Resort is a great base for all of your island hopping adventures.

Arriving in a new place, it’s sometimes tough to get your bearings to begin with. One of the best ways to figure out the layout of the town or city is to get to the highest viewpoint and take it all in. Coron has a great little trek that leads you up 742 steps to the summit of Mt. Tapyas.

A hollywood-style ‘CORON’ sign is perched on the hill below a giant cross. The cross is covered in lights and is quite impressive at night. The hike will only take 10-15 minutes and the view is worth the effort.

There is no entry fee for the hike but you might want a tricycle to take you to the entrance from the town. This could cost a few dollars.

Coron Island Hopping Prices

To book your ISLAND HOPPING A TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $20 USD)

• It includes Kayangan Lake, Coral Garden Snorkel, Cyc Beach and Lunch

To book your ISLAND HOPPING B TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $20 USD)

• It includes Barracuda Lake, Banol Beach, Snorkel at Skeleton Wreck, Twin Lagoon
• Island Hopping Day Trip 1

Island hopping should cost between $15-30 depending on the company, runs all day and includes lunch and some drinks. Bring coral shoes and sunscreen.

Kayangan Lake: Kayangan Lake has a short hike up a couple hundred stairs to a little viewpoint hidden in the cliffs. It’s a view I won’t forget and even after El Nido, this one blew me away. The Philippines is truly one of the most beautiful places on earth. From the viewpoint, you walk down the other side of the cliff for a few minutes and reach Kayangan Lake. We arrived before any other tourists and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the idyllic lake.

Siete Pecados Marine Park: Next stop was a snorkel at Siete Pecados. The coral was like an underwater fossilized forest. Each snorkel is always different and this was no exception. Starfish, hundreds of different fish and fluorescent coral.

Atwayan Beach: Enjoy a full seafood and barbecue spread conjured up on the grill at the back of the boat. We ate in a small hut on Atwayan Beach while looking out over the glistening bay.

Skeleton Wreck: Something I was quite excited about was free diving at Skeleton Wreck. It’s a mostly intact WWII ship that found its resting place in Coron. Thousands of fish surrounded the wreck and swarmed us as we swam.

To get down deep enough at the level of the wreck you will need to dive about 15ft but you can still get a great view from the surface. One of the guides managed to free-dive into the cabin of the ship and out of the window.

Twin Lagoon:  Our final stop of the day was Twin Lagoon, a stunning pool of water hiding amongst the breathtaking cliffs. Through a small gap, you can swim under the cliff and into Twin Lagoon. A vast lagoon, our own giant, private swimming pool for half an hour.

Island Hopping Day Trip 2

Bulog Dos Island: Depending on the time of day you visit will depend on if the sandbars connect. I climbed to the top of the hill and almost destroyed my camera in a tumble down the rock face after my handhold crumbled. I knew I wanted a better vantage point of the whole scene and in the end I think it was worth it.

Banana Island: Lunch was at Banana Island which might need to be renamed ‘The Hammock Island’. We enjoyed another amazing spread for lunch including oysters, squid, grilled pork, salads, and fruit. After lunch, everyone got into the hammocks and had a mini siesta in the shade.

Malcapuya Island: Our last island to visit on our adventure was Malcapuya. A stunning stretch of sand, lined with coconut trees made the perfect spot for our afternoon chill session. There is a little viewpoint on the left side of the beach and caves to explore on the right.

Coconuts are harvested by locals who free-climb the trees and cut the coconut. It doesn’t get any fresher.

• Maquinit Hot Springs

Only a 20-minute drive from Coron town in a tricycle is a hot spring oasis in the mountains. Amazingly the hot spring also has a view of the ocean and it is a salt-water hot spring.

The sunset was beautiful and lit the sky up with deep pinks and purples.. It is busy but there is enough space for everyone to chill around the edge. Sometimes I prefer places to be empty but the Maquinit Hot Spring had a really chill vibe with everyone enjoying their relaxing soak under the stars.

CORON TO MANILA

Taxi to Busuanga Airport in Coron takes 20-30 minutes from Coron Town and costs $10 approx depending on how many you split the car with.

Flight from Coron to Manila takes 1 hour and costs from $60-$200 depending on availability and season.

Manila is the best airport to finish with for this Philippines travel itinerary because they have the most international flight options at the cheapest prices. This is why you are finishing here. You will be able to fly back home or to your next destination easily.

You can stay a few nights in Manila if you’d like to live the city life but it is definitely a fast moving city. There is lots of hustle and bustle, which will be in contrast to your time on the islands.

THINGS TO KNOW

The local language is Tagalog although there are different languages throughout the islands. Most Filipinos know Tagalog. In Cebu, they don’t speak Tagalog but they will recognize these phrases.

I suggest learning the following phrases to help you do more than just get by. You want to be able to say thanks, hello, how are you and ask some basic questions. Locals will be much more willing to help you fix a flat tire, give you the local price or just have a chat with you if you take the time and effort to learn a few phrases.

Hello – Hello

Please – Paki Suyo

Sorry – Pasinsya

How are you – Kamusta Ka

Goodbye – Paalam

How much? – Magkano?

What’s your name? – Ana Panagalon Mo?

I am fine – Mabuti Ako

Thank you – Salamat

1 – Isa

2 – Dalawa

3 – Tatlo

4 – Apat

5 – Lima

Wifi in the Philippines is improving but it is still pretty bad in many island locations. If you just want to keep in touch on Facebook with friends and family you will be fine for the most part. However, if you are trying to upload photos and videos or work online you will find it challenging. I am a digital nomad and it was still possible to work online but be prepared to search high and low for that below average wifi connection at times.

The best thing to do is to buy a sim card at the airport. You can either pay as you go or buy a monthly package. I always buy the monthly package for about $20 and it gives you 10-15gb of data. It doesn’t always work but it lets me tether to my computer and work online, which is handy.

Of course, use your normal precautions. Don’t get too drunk and become vulnerable at night, don’t wander in strange places alone at night and be vigilant with your gear. However, those are precautions for every country in the world.

The Philippines is safe, very safe! I’ve traveled to more than 30 countries and in island locations in the Philippines, the worst thing that is likely to happen is to lose a mobile phone. Violence or assault against tourists is incredibly uncommon and locals are generally stoked to chat and help you out if you have a smile and respect.

Filipinos will do everything they can to make you feel welcome. Respect their home, their land, their culture and everything about this beautiful country. In return, you will enjoy a great trip throughout some of the most stunning places on earth.

In the Philippines, they use the Philippines Peso. It is about 50 pesos to 1 US dollar but you will need to check that before you arrive. You can withdraw directly from an ATM but you will incur a fee.

There isn’t a better alternative. Exchanging your money in cash is also possible but you will also have to pay a lower rate.

Best time of year to visit the Philippines

The best time of year for this Philippines Travel Itinerary would be b etween November and April is the dry season and therefore the most popular time. I suggest visiting on the edges of this season and hoping for good weather to avoid big tourist crowds. For example travel in October or March and with any luck, you will get decent weather and there will be no crowds, accommodation will be cheap and available and tourist locations will be peaceful and relatively empty.

This Philippines travel itinerary will be best experienced in the low season but you may have to risk some inclement weather. Luckily it’s usually warm even when it’s raining!

MORE PHILIPPINES BLOGS

I have also visited many other places in the Philippines that you may want to add to your itinerary and remove one of the locations I visited. There is no right way to travel to the Philippines. The reality is that you will miss some awesome places no matter what Philippines backpacking route you take. You can check out the links below to my other Philippines backpacking guides.

Siargao:  30 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON SIARGAO

Caramoan:  CARAMOAN ISLAND HOPPING

Romblon Island:  ROMBLON TRAVEL GUIDE: 17 AWESOME THINGS TO DO

Tablas Island:  TABLAS ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE: 20 AWESOME THINGS TO DO

Sibuyan Island:  SIBUYAN ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE: 9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO

Sohoton Cove:  SOHOTON COVE NATIONAL PARK TOUR – CAVES AND LAGOONS

Carabao Island:  CARABAO ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE: 5 THINGS TO DO

Cebu Itinerary:  CEBU 5-DAY ITINERARY – DETAILED ADVENTURE TRAVEL GUIDE

Cebu Things To Do:  16 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON CEBU

Philippines Backpacking Guide:  PHILIPPINES BACKPACKING: 2019 BUDGET TRAVEL GUIDE

kuwait airways

Monday 5th of June 2023

I had visited Philippines for a very short duration and had booked kuwait airways for my travel. I think I have not touched even the tip of the iceberg in my last sojourn. Your post motivates me to make the next trip. Very well written post with captivating images.

Sunday 5th of February 2023

Hey Jackson..thatès incredible..appreciate all your work...Can you please help me with the very first picture in this vlog- where was that taken

Tuesday 2nd of March 2021

Hey, Me and my boyfriend are looking to travel Phillipines for a month next March, this has really helped! I have written out the places we want to go and see but I can’t work out the best order and which will be the least time consuming.. if you could drop me an email and help me out that would be great!

Thanks so much

Monday 2nd of March 2020

Where is the jump in the last picture located? Looks awesome!!

Awesome Phillipines blogs btw. Helped a lot in our planning.

It's while island hopping from Romblon Island :)

Thursday 23rd of January 2020

Thank you for this overview. It was very helpful. Just a note re: crossing from Oslob to Bohol. There is a direct ferry that can be booked online through Apekop travel. Ours was cancelled so we took transport to Liloan port 30 mins south of Oslob, 30 min ferry to Dumaguette, 20 min trike from the small ferry port to Dumaguette city port and then just over 90 min ferry to Tagbilaran City. This is a better way then going to Cebu as it avoids the crazy Cebu traffic

Philippines Travel Guide: The Ultimate 3-week Itinerary

Imagine remote islands with palm trees leaning over pristine white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The Philippines is a country consisting of 7641 islands that not only offer tropical beaches but also rice terraces, hiking, surfing, and great diving. An interesting mix of Spanish, American, and Chinese cultures formed Filipinos into the extremely welcoming people they are today. Discover the best of the country in this Philippines Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Itinerary

Traveling in the Philippines takes time because all islands are divided by the ocean. Experiencing the entire country in 3 weeks is impossible. However, this 3-week route takes you along some of the country’s highlights. This Philippines Travel Guide includes extra time meant as travel time.

Day 1: Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is where your incredible journey starts. Most people have a love-hate relationship with this city and spend one or two nights here. If you want to explore the city, book a tour visiting the city’s highlights and tasting local food.

Tip: Grab Taxi is a great way to get reliable transportation around the city.

Where to Stay in Manila

Hotels in manila 😴.

Makati is the area where you need to spend the night and find all the trendy restaurants and bars.

Here are all your hotel options in Makati.

Day 2 – 3: Coron

The small fishing village Coron is all about hopping from one stunning island to the other. On the morning of day 2, fly from Manila to Busuanga island, followed by a 30-minute drive to Coron town.

Once you arrive, relax, hike up Mt. Tapyas before sunset, and go island hopping by boat ( book online ) on day 3. You can arrange this in advance or at the harbor.

Must-Try! The Philippines has the most delicious mangos. Don’t miss these!

Where to Stay in Coron

Hotels in Coron are available for every kind of budget, whether you want something more luxurious or something that’s more budget-friendly.

Hotels in Coron 😴

Tip: The best place to stay is in the center of town; this has the most options, with the only downside that you won’t have any beach near your hotel.

Day 4 – 6: El Nido

A 4-hour ferry from Coron ( find tickets ) takes you to one of the most stunning locations in your Philippines Travel Guide. El Nido is located on the northern tip of Palawan Island, offering pristine white beaches and paradise islands. You can visit these places by joining an El Nido Island Hopping Tour .

Book your island-hopping tour in advance here

Where to Stay in El Nido

Choose a hostel or hotel on one of the beautiful beaches in El Nido, with incredible views over the turquoise waters.

Hotels in El Nido 😴

Tip: You could also choose to stay in El Nido town. Although the town itself used to be a little underwhelming, it has been developing fast and now has some great hotels and restaurants.

Day 7: Puerto Princesa

From El Nido, drive down to Puerto Princesa to spend the night before catching your flight to Cebu.

Find your flight to Cebu

Getting to El Nido is possible by van or public transport. In Puerto Princesa, we highly recommend visiting the Iwahig Open Prison and having dinner at Kalui.

Good to know: Unfortunately, the standard Filipino kitchen isn’t that great. Rice and pork or BBQ chicken are the typical dishes. However, at popular restaurants, it is an entirely different world.

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa has plenty of hotels to choose from that are perfect for spending the night before your journey to Cebu.

Hotels in Puerto Princesa 😴

Did you know? Puerto Princesa is known as ‘the city in the forest’ because of its luscious greenery and tropical atmosphere.

Day 8 – 9: Cebu

Cebu is one of the main islands and transport hubs of the Philippines. Arrive in Cebu by airplane from Puerto Princesa in the morning of day 8. Directly hop into the bus or car and make your way down to Moalboal. The following day, go Canyoneering in Badian and jump off the Kawasan Falls!

Where to Stay in Cebu

You can stay in Moalboal or Cebu City for your canyoning trip. Moalboal is the most convenient as it is very close to Badian, but keep in mind that this cheaper option can be fully booked due to the lack of accommodations.

Hotels in Cebu 😴

Alternatively, stay in Cebu City, which, although quite far away from Badian (around a 3-hour drive), has the option of free pick-up and drop-off (with Island Trek Tours).

Day 10 – 12: Bohol

Discover the unique landscapes of Bohol with rice terraces, chocolate hills, and white sand beaches. But what makes Bohol unique is the Philippine Tarsier. Tiny, monkey-like animals that move during the night. Book a day tour to explore all the highlights of Bohol. It is a short 2-hour ferry ride from Cebu to Bohol.

Get your boat tickets in advance

The endangered Tarsiers are extremely sensitive to light and sound. Only visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, where you’re not allowed to touch, talk to, or photograph them with flash. If you see tarsiers in cages, that’s not OK! Learn more about responsible wildlife tourism .

Philippines

Are you interested in visiting churches? Bohol has plenty! Did you know? The Philippines is the only Christian nation in Asia.

Where to Stay in Bohol

Bohol’s beauty makes it a hotel paradise! From luxury spas to cute guesthouses, there’s something for everyone on the island.

Hotels in Bohol 😴

Day 13 – 15: Siquijor

Majestic waterfalls, the friendliest Filipinos, and beautiful local life. The island of Siquijor is stunning to explore by motorbike in a 2-hour drive. Read about all the things to do in Siquijor .

From Bohol, take the 1.5-hour ferry to Siquijor.

Book your tickets for the ferry here .

Where to Stay in Siquijor

Most hotels are located on the western coastline of Siquijor or in the town of San Juan (which has the yummiest restaurants!).

Hotels in Siquijor 😴

Day 16: Travel day

While you’re still buzzing from the incredible last 15 days, it’s time to head back to Cebu to catch a flight to Siargao. Getting back to Cebu is a long trip, but it’s worth it for the next part of your itinerary.

• Catch the boat from Siquijor to Dumaguete (30 min; book your tickets here ).
• At Dumaguete, take the boat to Liloan Port, Cebu (20 min).
• From Liloan Port, catch the public bus to Cebu City (4 hours).

Spend the night in Cebu City and fly out to Siargao the next morning. Please note: If you’re planning to fly to Siargao, keep in mind that evening flights are often canceled. The Siargao runway does not have lights yet (April 2019).

Day 17 – 20: Siargao

Welcome to the ‘Most Beautiful Island in Asia’. Siargao has the perfect island vibe with great beaches, surfing, scenic drives, island hopping, incredible food, and a chilled vibe. You could easily spend a week in Siargao.

Read more: best things to do in Siargao

Where to Stay in Siargao

There are three main tourist towns: General Luna, Dapa, and Pacifico. Dapa and Pacifico are quieter, and General Luna offers the best restaurants.

Hotels in Siargao 😴

Day 21: Manila

Spend your last day in Manila. We recommend you be back in Manila at least 10 hours before your international flight back home leaves. Why? Most flights in the afternoon are delayed. We have been to The Philippines twice and had just two flights leaving on time or too early, haha.

Food rec: On your last day, visit Hummus Elijah in Makati!

Additional Philippines Travel Itinerary Options

If you have more or less time available, use one of the following options in your Philippines Travel itinerary.

• Visit the rice fields in the north of the Philippines (4-week route)
• Skip Puerto Princesa and fly directly from El Nido to Cebu (more relaxed)
• Skip Siquijor and spend your time in Cebu and Bohol (more relaxed)

Your Budget for the Philippines

The Philippines is a budget travel country. It is affordable to get around, and there is accommodation for every kind of budget. However, the prices for accommodation are a little higher compared to Indonesia or Thailand . If you’re on a tight budget, take the overnight ferry instead of an airplane and travel by bus. The currency in the country is the Philippine Peso (PHP, ₱).

Costs of Traveling in The Philippines

Travel on a budget in The Philippines, from $180 − $350 USD weekly per person, mid-range $320 − $180 USD, and high-end from $180 − $240 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hostels: $10 − $15 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $50 USD Book public transport
• Food: $2 − $10 USD
• Activities: $5 − $15 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Wifi and SIM Cards in the Philippines

Wifi is something you cannot relate to in the Philippines. It is unstable, and if they offer it, it’s usually not fast. We always recommend getting a SIM card to use Google Maps or make phone calls in emergencies. It is best to get a GLOBE or SMART SIM card (9GB for 1000 PHP) and top it up once you’re out of data.

Get your Sim Card here

How to get around the Philippines?

Transportation in the Philippines is well-arranged and affordable but time-consuming. Travel overland by taxi, tricycles, jeepneys, buses, and minivans and go from island to island by boat or airplane.

Flights Flights go as often as buses in the Philippines to cross to another island. Flight delays are common, so it is recommended never to book too tight with connecting flights or activities.

Boats and buses Ferries to cross to a different island are very common. Taking an overnight ferry can reduce costs on your travel budget. Booking boats and long bus rides in advance is common.

Book your tickets online in advance

Tricycle To cover short distances, a tricycle is very convenient. The vehicle is kind of a 3-wheeled tuk-tuk. You have to bargain with this kind of transport. Our rule of thumb was 100 PHP for 2 persons, including luggage for a 10-minute drive.

Motorbike In the main tourist areas (not cities), we recommend renting a motorbike and driving around by yourself. The price for tourists is about 400 – 600 PHP (±9 USD) per day, depending on the season.

Best Time to Visit the Philippines

From December to April, during the dry season, is the best time to visit the Philippines. Where March to May are the busiest and most expensive months. It is best to avoid traveling there from July to October when the typhoon season is active.

Always do your research per location. For example, El Nido and Siargao have two completely different seasons at the same time of the year.

Is the Philippines safe to travel?

Through media, the Philippines is commonly illustrated as unsafe and a no-go destination. However, that’s not true. The deep southern tip (Mindanao area) of the Philippines is the only no-go area due to possible terrorism. The rest of the Philippines is safe.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Philippines trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

It breaks our hearts to hear that people don’t visit the Philippines because of these stories. Why? The Filipino people are some of the friendliest in Southeast Asia. Although Tagalog is their first language, everyone understands and speaks English, which makes it even easier.

Visa for the Philippines

Most nationalities will receive a 30-day Visa on Arrival when flying to the Philippines. The only requirements are that your passport is valid for at least 6 months and that you must have an outbound ticket that will show you’re leaving the country within those 30 days. A standard visa is extendable up to 60 days.

Check online if you need a Visa

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to The Philippines via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Best Things To Do in Coron, Palawan

El nido island hopping: a full guide to tours a-d, explore islands around el nido by clear kayak.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

It is recommended to only pack in a backpack? We are planning a trip to the Philippines , leave this week. My husband is thinking that us two plus our 10 year old son need to pack in 1 backpack so when we rent a motorbike that we can just have that for luggage and make it easy getting around.

Hi Ashley, we typically travel with a big bag each. There are many taxis, tricycles, jeepneys, buses, and minivans that can transport you and your luggage to your accommodation, then hire a motorbike once you’ve dropped your bags off. Have an amazing trip! :)

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Our ultimate 4 week philippines itinerary {fresh for 2024}.

At the time of visiting the Philippines, I’ve now been to more than 60 countries all around the world; and I can still say this for sure…

The Philippines is by far the most beautiful place I have ever seen.

The water is so clear that you can see corals and fish below, even from a distance.

And from above, you can see how the water gets deeper and the shades of blue gradually evolve.

So, if you're looking for picture perfect oceans and the ideal spot to swim and snorkel, then The Philippines is the place to be.

And here is the ideal 4 week Philippines itinerary that you can copy for having an amazing time, just like we did!

Our 4 week Philippines Itinerary travel video

Interactive map of our one month Philippines itinerary

Travellerspoint

Our awesome 4 week Philippines itinerary

Stop 1: manila - 1 night.

The majority of international flights will see you arrive in either Manila or Cebu.

For us, it just so happened that flights to Manila were cheapest, and it is well situated for your first proper stop (Coron).

Just as a heads up, Manila is a place you want to get out of as quickly as possible.

It is mostly just a large overpopulated urban city filled with noise and smoke.

I’m sure there are nice places further north, but for us, Manila was simply a place to spend the night before we caught an internal flight the next day.

That being said, there are some great spots to visit in the city if you don't mind the hustle and bustle. Some of the best attractions include Fort Santiago, the National Museum of Fine Arts, and Rizal Park.

This awesome Manila city tour only lasts for 4 hours, yet will show you the best of the city's historic and more modern areas. All your entrance fees are included and you'll have a licensed guide who will teach you all about Manila.

• Where we stayed in Manila: OYO 105 Melbourne Suites

Stop 2: Coron - 4 nights

As our first stop after Manila, it’s fair to say Coron is entirely different to Manila.

Sure, the main town area near the docks is a bit overcrowded and a little smelly, but this is because they can’t keep up with all of the tourists coming!

Seriously, there is a real shortage of decent, affordable accommodation in Coron, as tourists are coming quicker than they can build.

But nonetheless, you simply have to visit this place!

We truly fell in love with the crystal blue waters in the bay and the wonderful snorkelling spots located all around Coron Island.

To make the most of your visit, we'd suggesting heading out on a boat trip.

This fantastic boat tour is a top pick of ours, as it will take you to five popular destinations including Skeleton Wreck, Barracuda Lake, and Twin Lagoon. Not only is hotel pick-up and drop-off included, but you'll have lunch on the boat too.

However, by far the best reason to visit Coron is to stay at Paolyn Houseboats.

This is a small houseboat located out in a sheltered bay next to Coron Island, and it's literally paradise!

I won’t divulge too much as I could talk all day about how much I loved our time here.

Instead, you should read the full post I did on Paolyn Houseboats in Coron .

• Where we stayed in Coron: Paolyn Houseboats

Stop 3: El Nido - 3 nights

After falling in love with Coron, El Nido had a lot to live up to!

In many ways, it’s a similar place to visit as the best thing to do here is to go out on guided tour packages around the various inlets and islands nearby.

But don’t worry, El Nido and Coron are each unique and both well worth a visit.

That being said, we did find that some of the most popular spots in El Nido are far less well preserved than in Coron and as a result the corals have died off and you have to swim further out to get the same snorkelling experiences.

What’s nice about El Nido’s more developed tourist industry is there’s a wider choice of hotels, hostels, cafes and restaurants in town.

Every night you can find a new bar or restaurant on the beachfront and watch the beautiful sunset.

To make the most of your time here, we'd recommend heading out on an island-hopping tour such as this one. With this private boat tour, your lunch is included and you'll visit some jaw-dropping locations including Bacuit Bay, the Big Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach.

Check out our El Nido Itinerary to help you plan our trip.

• Where we stayed in El Nido: Mountainside Inn

Stop 4: Port Barton - 2 nights

Port Barton is the newest and most up and coming tourist spot in Palawan.

Well, put it this way, they only got 24 hour electricity at the end of 2018!

When we visited in early 2019, they still had no ATMs and there was a limited choice of accommodation (but there are tonnes being built all throughout town). They also have a few ATMs now too! 

What’s great about Port Barton is that you can find many scenic day trips and there aren't too many tourists crowding the beaches.

This will probably change in the coming years, but for now it is certainly worth a visit on anyone’s Philippines travel itinerary.

Here, once again the best thing to do is go on a guided day trip out to spots where you can snorkel and, best of all, swim with turtles!

This island hopping tour is a popular choice! You'll get to visit six different locations, all snorkelling gear is included, and you'll get to enjoy a traditional BBQ lunch too.

Also, the main beach is so scenic and it's the perfect place to have cheap drinks and enjoy the sunset.

• Where we stayed in Port Barton: Eashanti’s Place

Stop 5: Puerto Princesa - 2 nights

Next on our Philippines itinerary was Puerto Princesa!

The highlight of this spot has to be the Puerto Princesa Underground River and this full-day trip offers the best way to experience it. The tour lasts for 8-10 hours so offers great value for money, and it includes lunch, hotel pick-up and drop-off, a paddleboat cruise, and a pump boat cruise.

However, as a head’s up, I don’t really rate this stop very highly.

We decided to stop here for two nights before flying to Siargao, and in the end I was a little let down.

We hired a motorbike for two days and went far and wide discovering the best sights in the area; however, there wasn't too much to see.

So, instead of spending too much time here, I would recommend using that valuable time in the Philippines to discover more of the other wonderful locations.

• Where we stayed in Puerto Princesa: Villa Skanderbeg Guest House

Read Also:   Check out our Palawan Itinerary to plan the perfect trip

Stop 6: Siargao - 5 nights

If you’re stuck for time and want to experience a bit of everything in the Philippines, then I’d say Siargao is the place to go.

This wonderful island houses everything you could possibly want to find in the Philippines; including some of the world’s best surf locations, waterfalls, day trips to mangroves, cheap booze, places to party, incredible beaches, day trips to nearby islands and stunning reefs to snorkel over.

Looking back, it’s no surprise that Siargao is where we chose to spend the longest amount of time, as you really do need at least 4 full days to really soak up what’s on offer.

On that note, I strongly suggest you check out the 4 day Siargao itinerary post that Cazzy put together.

It honestly is the perfect way to squeeze in everything and make the most of your time there.

• Where we stayed in Siargao: Nine Clouds Homestyle

Stop 7: Bohol - 4 nights

Bohol is perhaps my second favorite island, only just coming up short of Siargao.

Once again, there is so much to see and do here, that it's perfectly suited to families, couples and backpackers alike.

I think we saw the most diverse array of travellers here and in the main tourist area in the south west, you will find plenty of hotels, resorts and hostels to choose from.

However, I would advise that you escape this tourist zone if you want to experience what Bohol truly has to offer.

The main tours that run from 6 am till 12 pm are now far too crowded and it’s really hard to enjoy any part of the beaches and sand bar that you visit.

Instead, as you head inland and towards the eastern coast you will uncover waterfalls, beaches and even cave pools that very few tourists go to.

Once again, I really do want to big up the post I put together for spending 3 days in Bohol as it’s the perfect way to squeeze everything in.

You'll also want to check out this full-day Bohol tour , which includes a visit to the famous Chocolate Hills and a Tarsier Conservation Area, as well as paddle boarding along the scenic Loboc River. It also includes all entrance fees so you don't have to worry about additional costs (apart from lunch and drinks).

• Where we stayed in Bohol: Palm Rise Resort

Stop 8: Siquijor - 3 nights

Once again, if you are looking to visit one of The Philippines’ most up and coming destinations, then Siquijor is the place for you.

It’s been a hot spot for a number of years now but you can tell there are still far less hotels and resorts here compared to other islands.

In Siquijor, we spent 3 days discovering, just like elsewhere in the Philippines, hidden waterfalls, beaches, viewpoints and dive spots.

However, one spot still stands out to me as one of the highlights from our entire trip; and that is Cambugahay Falls.

In the last 3 years, Cazzy and I have been to A LOT of waterfalls all across southeast Asia.

However, for me, Cambugahay Falls are by far my favourite.

Because, they are so much fun!

Here, you find that the locals have built giant bungee swings into the falls where you can jump, swing dive and do tricks from, depending on how brave you feel.

I fell in love and ended up going twice.

• Where we stayed in Siquijor: AMK Travelers Hub

Stop 9: Cebu - 4 nights

The final island on our Philippines itinerary was Cebu.

Cebu is a relatively large island and you need a lot more than just 4 nights if you want to see it all.

As such, we decided to spend the little time we had left in the popular region of Badian.

It is here that you'll find Kawasan Falls; arguably Cebu’s best waterfalls and a firm contender as some of the best waterfalls anywhere in the Philippines.

Here, you can do guided trekking and waterfall jumping tours to these and a number of other waterfalls in the area.

This canyoneering and cliff jumping tour is a popular option! It takes place at Kawasan Falls and includes all entrance fees, safety gear, lunch, and hotel pick-up/drop-off.

Also, up the coast you have the chance to witness another spectacle I was keen to experience… the sardine run.

Just a dozen or so metres off the coast you will discover a giant hoard of hundreds of thousands of sardines.

You simply pay a local guide, grab your GoPro and a snorkel set and head out into the water to swim down and into them.

Don’t worry, they don’t touch you, but it does make for a cool experience and some great photos (just a shame we had a dodgy GoPro with us as our photos turned out terrible! </3).

Our last night was then spent in Cebu City, on the east coast of Cebu Island, as it is from here that we caught our flights back to the UK.

• Where we stayed in Cebu: “TGH” The Guest House Badian

Total = 28 Nights = 1 month in The Philippines!

How do you get around the philippines.

Philippines is a rapidly developing backpacking destination , and it seems like transport systems are improving every year.

For example, when we were in Bohol, they had just recently opened a brand spanking new airport that will probably cause the number of tourists visiting to grow massively.

But for our visit, we had to get a ferry to a part of the island, further away from the main tourist area.

As such, just be aware that for each island, the ways of getting there should hopefully be getting better and better.

For now, your 3 primary modes of transport are...

This is by far the quickest and easiest way of getting around the Philippines.

We took flights from:

• Manila to Coron
• Puerto Princesa (Palawan) to Siargao
• Siargao to Cebu
• Return flights to the UK (Outbound to Manila and return from Cebu City)

For us, the cheapest airline (usually) was Air Asia and we didn’t have any problems with them.

It’s worth noting that the cost of our flights around the Philippines was by far the biggest expense of our trip.

If you plan on moving quickly and visiting as many islands as possible, then you kind of have to shell out on flights, which will seem comparatively very expensive to how cheap everything else is in the Philippines.

To find the cheapest flights available between all islands in the Philippines, we used Skyscanner .

For many islands, you have no choice but to get a ferry to them as they have no public airports.

Ferry crossings were typically very cheap and were relatively comfortable (though this depends entirely on the weather on the day you sail).

For most ferry crossings, it's possible to pick up cheap tickets from a local ticket office a few days before you depart.

However, do be aware that in peak months boats can fill up quickly and you may not be able to get tickets.

As such, if you know your itinerary around the Philippines, then it could be worth booking tickets online a week or two in advance.

We used 12Go Asia for all of our online ferry bookings.

We had only one issue with them, which was in Coron where their system never mailed our booking to the ferry operator, and we very almost weren’t allowed to board.

3. Transfers

If you are going between stops within an island, then it’s possible to pick up some sort of transfer, either designed for locals or tourists.

For example, we used the tourist buses running between El Nido and Port Barton , and then Port Barton and Puerto Princesa.

They were each pretty cheap and the ride was comfy in a standard 12 seater minibus.

You can usually pick up tickets for these in the port town, but again try to book as far in advance as possible.

Read More: Our In-Depth Guide On Getting Around The Philippines

How about a 3 week Philippines itinerary?

I honestly really did love our 4 weeks spent discovering all of these amazing places in the Philippines!

But that being said, the whole point of travelling is to discover new places and along the way you will pick up on things you could have done better.

In this case, there are a couple of places I would recommend removing from your Philippines travel itinerary if you only have 3 weeks to explore.

In this case, those places are Puerto Princesca and Cebu.

Sure, we saw some awesome places in Cebu, in particular Kawasan Falls!

However, getting there is a bit more awkward and overall I just didn’t rate the places we visited as highly.

Of course, there are nice spots, but compared to the rest of the itinerary, they don’t stack up!

So, if you shorten this down to a 3 week itinerary, here’s a rough idea of what you’d have left…

• Manila - 1 night (but if you can skip this, then you should!)
• Coron -  3 nights
• El Nido - 3 nights
• Port Barton - 2 nights
• Siargao - 4 nights
• Bohol -  4 nights
• Siquijor - 3 nights

You can check out our Philippines Travel Guide for some itinerary suggestions! 

Final thoughts on planning a 1 month Philippines itinerary of your own

When planning your own Philippines itinerary, I recommend first deciding what it is you want to see and do.

As you can tell, you will find incredible snorkelling spots on all islands, as well as the chance to do so much more, like:

• Island hopping tour
• Discover waterfalls

Our 1 month Philippines backpacking route gave us the chance to do all of these things and more, as you can tell from the individual location guides we wrote for each one.

However, if you are more inclined to do just a few activities, then feel free to cut out a few islands and spend longer uncovering each one to a greater depth.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on our route and to offer up any suggestions on what you might change.

Similarly, if you have any other questions, then just let me know in the comments below.

For help planning the rest of your trip in the Philippines, here’s some other guides you might find useful:

• The Best Things To Do In Coron
• The Best Things To Do In El Nido
• The Best Things To Do In Siargao
• The Best Things To Do In Bohol
• The Best Things To Do In Siquijor

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Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

The Ultimate 3-Week Philippines Itinerary: BEST Islands & Route

The Philippines is one of those countries that feels like paradise. With its 7,641 islands, each more beautiful than the last, you'll find palm trees, incredible beaches, incredible wildlife, and some of the friendliest locals you'll ever meet.

On top of that, the Philippines has such an incredibly interesting mix of cultures due to its rich history of colonization. You'll find influences from the Spanish and the Americans everywhere in the county.

After getting back from my three-week adventure in the Philippines, I absolutely fell in love with the country. I had an amazing time island hopping, hiking, surfing, and diving.

To make it easier for you to have an incredible trip, and to take away some of the stress of planning, I want to share my three-week Philippines travel itinerary with you.

3 week Philippines itinerary

Traveling around for three weeks in the Philippines can be a bit more challenging and time-consuming compared to other countries. You'll find yourself island hopping quite a bit, which means taking several flights or ferries throughout your journey to get to your next destination. 

Three weeks in the Philippines may not be sufficient to explore the entire country, but it's definitely more than enough time to experience all the highlights and have an amazing time.

Day 1: Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is where most people start their journey. However, some of may not really enjoy Manila because it's a massive city and might not be what you're looking for when you see the beaches and crystal clear water of the Philippines.

However, if you're up for it and have enough time, you can actually have an amazing first evening in Manila before heading out to the islands in the morning. You can dive right into trying some mouthwatering traditional Filipino cuisine.  Toyo Eatery  and  Balai Palma  are two excellent dining options to start off your journey.

There are plenty of different neighborhoods and areas to stay in Manila. To help you find the perfect hotel, make sure to check out my guide on  where to stay in Manila .

Day 2-3: Cebu

When you arrive in Cebu City on day 2, you'll want to head straight from the airport to Moalboal via bus or taxi. It's a beautiful beach town on the west side of Cebu island, and that's where you'll be spending two days.

Take some time to relax on White Beach and soak up the stunning views. After a few days of city life and traveling, it's the perfect way to unwind.

If you're up for some adventure, exploring the underwater world around Moalboal is a must. I highly recommend going scuba diving. 

Savedra Dive Shop  is a fantastic place to book a dive, whether you're a beginner or already certified. They can even help you get your diving certificates done.

On your second day, get ready for some action. You'll be heading to Badain to go canyoneering . Along the way, you'll have the chance to climb, swim, slide, and jump off rocks in the Badain River.

Finally, you'll reach Kawasan Falls, Cebu's famous three-cascade waterfall, where you can cliff jump into turquoise pools from heights of up to 6 meters.

Alternative: Oslob

Instead of scuba diving and canyoneering in Moalboal, another option is to head straight from the airport in Cebu City to Oslob. Oslob is well-known for swimming with whale sharks. Just a heads up, I want to mention this as an alternative and not as my actual recommendation because there has been some criticism about swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. It's not entirely considered ethically correct to interfere with their natural habitat, so it's up to you to make that decision.

But don't worry, even if you're not going to Oslob, you still have a chance to see one of those magnificent creatures while scuba diving or snorkeling in Moalboal, if you're lucky!

If you're planning to visit Oslob, Moalboal, or any other town in Cebu, and you want to find the perfect place to stay, make sure to check out my guide on where to stay in Cebu Island.

Day 4-6: Bohol

Your next stop after Cebu is going to be Bohol Island, just a short 2-hour ferry ride away. You can easily purchase your  tickets online . Once you're there, you'll most likely be staying on Panglao Island, a small island connected to the main island of Bohol via a bridge.

Bohol is packed with cool things to do and it's been one of my real highlights in the Philippines. You absolutely must see the famous Chocolate Hills in Bohol. This geological formation in the center of Bohol consists of over 1200 hills and it's incredible to see from above. The entrance to the Chocolate Hills is super cheap, only 50 pesos, and it's just a 2-hour taxi or scooter ride from Panglao Island.

Alternatively, you could join a half-day tour like this one that will include transport and a guide.

Another highlight of visiting Bohol is seeing the Philippine Tarsier. It's the world's smallest primate and one of the cutest animals you'll ever see. You can visit a  conservation center  to get up close and personal with these little guys safely and ethically, ensuring no harm is done to them while also having an educational experience.

FYI:  If you ever see Tarsiers held in cages outside the conservation center, that's not okay and those people shouldn't be supported.

Check out my guide on  where to stay in Bohol  to discover the perfect accommodation that suits you best.

Day 7-9: Siquijor

It's super easy to hop on over to your next destination, the charming and laid-back island of Siquijor.

While still somewhat off the beaten path, it's gradually becoming more developed. Just a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Bohol Island, you can easily book your tickets here .

Siquijor is the perfect place to take a break from all the hustle and bustle and simply unwind. It's smaller and less crowded than other islands, making it ideal for exploring on a scooter. Even if you're not the most confident driver, it's a great spot to practice since there's not much traffic around.

The best part? You can circle the entire island in just about 2 hours!

FYI:  You can easily rent the scooters right from the harbor, and they should cost around 350 – 500 PHP (US$6-9), depending on the season.

When it's time for a relaxing beach day in Siquijor, make sure to visit my favorite spots: Paliton Beach and Tubod Beach.

Paliton Beach offers crystal clear waters for swimming and you might even spot some starfish, which is super cool. On the other hand, Tubod Beach has a long stretch of white sand, perfect for sunbathing. Just a heads up, there's a marine sanctuary in front of the beach, so I recommend not swimming there to protect the corals and marine life.

One activity you definitely should do is chase some of the best waterfalls on the island, such as Cambugahay Falls and Lugnason Falls. Cambugahay Falls is a popular tourist attraction, so don't expect a hidden and secluded waterfall.

However, you can definitely expect to capture some super cool pictures on one of the bamboo rafts right in front of the waterfall. On the other hand, if you're looking for a hidden and secluded waterfall, then you should check out Lugnason Falls.

Day 10-13: Boracay

Our next day is going to be all about travel. You'll be heading back by ferry from Siquijor to Cebu, and then catching a flight from Cebu to Caticlan, which is the closest airport to your dreamy destination, Boracay.

And guess what? From Caticlan, you can easily hop on a ferry straight to Boracay!

Boracay is where you'll have the ultimate beach vacation, with some of the best beachfront resorts in the Philippines. Let me tell you about two of my favorite resorts: The Lind Boracay and the Henann Prime Beach Resort. Trust me, they're both amazing luxury resorts with amazing facilities, from swimming pools to spas.

If you're looking for other accommodation options and different resorts in Boracay, check out my hotel guide to Boracay . It's got all the insider info you need. 

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, Boracay is the perfect destination for island hopping! You can join one of the Island Hopping tours, which you can easily book here ahead of time .

Get ready to explore the surrounding islands and beaches like Crystal Cove Island, Crocodile Island, Magic Island, Puka Beach, and Balinghai Beach. You'll have a great time sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a delicious lunch and refreshing drinks in different locations.

Alternative: Siargao

Prefer fun-filled and adventurous days over the resort island of Boracay, I've got the perfect alternative: Siargao!

Siargao is potentially the most beautiful island out of all of them. Unlike Boracay's luxury resorts, Siargao is all about laid-back surfer towns and charming beach shacks. Personally, I love both islands, but for very different reasons.

Siargao is the real deal if you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path and relaxed island experience. With its palm trees, white sand beaches, and popularity among travelers and backpackers, it's a true gem.

Surfing takes center stage here, earning it the title of Surfing Capital of the Philippines. But don't worry, there are plenty of other activities like diving and island hopping to keep you entertained. And let me tell you, Siargao has so many hidden secret beaches and lagoons just waiting to be explored.

One of my favorite spots during these adventures is the rope swing at Maasin Secret River. It's like a hidden gem and the perfect spot to snap an epic Instagram pic. Trust me, you'll love it!

Day 14-18: Palawan (El Nido)

Whether you're heading to Boracay for a relaxing resort break or Siargao to catch some waves at the Cloud 9 surf break, you can fly from either island to Puerto Princesa, which is your gateway to the beautiful Palawan Island.

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan, but the real gem is El Nido! You'll want to hop on a bus or taxi and make your way there as quickly as possible. It's an absolute highlight of this whole itinerary. You'll be spending the next few days in El Nido, and let me tell you, there are so many incredible things to see and do.

In El Nido, island hopping is the ultimate highlight. With countless stunning islands to explore, you'll have plenty of options for your days. I recommend joining at least one or even two of the island hopping boat tours . Yes, you heard right – there are multiple options! Since there are so many different islands, one tour just won't do. That's why they offer tours of different islands.

El Nido Island Hopping A

This is without a doubt the most popular tour in El Nido, and if you're only joining one tour, this should be it!

Island Hopping Tour A takes you on an adventure around Miniloc Island where you'll discover the Secret Lagoon, kayak in the stunning and popular Big Lagoon, have a delicious lunch at Shimizu Island, and experience the breathtaking sunset at Seven-Commando Beach. The tours start from El Nido in the morning, last about 5 hours, and will bring you back to El Nido around 4 pm. 

The cost for this amazing tour is approximately $23, and you can easily book it here .

El Nido Island Hopping B

This tour is absolutely amazing because you'll also have the opportunity to explore some of the breathtaking caves on the nearby islands. You'll sail to the picturesque Snake Island, the enchanting Entalula Island, the movie-like Pinagbuyutan Island, and the fascinating Cathedral & Cudugnon Caves. Snorkeling equipment, a delicious lunch, and refreshing drinking water are, of course, included. 

The cost for this incredible tour is approximately US$26 and can be booked right here .

El Nido Island Hopping C

Tour C is definitely one of the most popular tours because here you'll get the full paradise experience with amazing hidden beaches and incredible snorkeling spots. Discover Hidden and Secret Beach, snorkel at Matinloc Shrine and explore stunning Tapiutan and Helicopter Island. Plus, there's a big chance to see turtles on this tour in the Philippines.

This tour is usually a little more expensive, up to $30, but trust me, as my personal favorite, it's well worth the money. You can easily book it right here .

El Nido Island Hopping D

This tour is absolutely awesome because not only do you get to go snorkeling, but it also includes some kayaking!

You'll have a blast swimming in the famous Small Lagoon, exploring the beautiful beaches of Cadlao Island (perfect for snorkeling), and checking out Pasandigan Cove, Nat Nat Beach, and Bukal Island. 

It's usually around $30, and you can book it here . 

El Nido Island Hopping Private Tour

The best way to do it, however, is to have your very own private tour. If you want to experience the best of all worlds, you can book a custom-made island hopping tour just for you. This incredible adventure includes all the amazing spots mentioned above, plus some extra secret places. 

The boats usually fit up to 6 people and can be chartered at the El Nido Art Cafe.

Clear Kayak

If you've had enough of boat tours and want to explore the surrounding islands on your own or with your partner, renting a clear kayak with a transparent bottom is the way to go. It lets you discover some amazing spots around El Nido without needing a guide.

You can easily rent these kayaks at the El Nido Art Cafe and have a blast exploring the waters. Don't miss out on visiting cool spots like Rainbow Beach and Seven Commandos Beach.

If you're wondering where to stay in El Nido, I've got you covered. Check out my  El Nido guide  for my top picks in different areas and hotels that suit every budget.

Day 19-20: Coron

From El Nido Town, it's just a 4-hour boat ride to your next and final destination before heading back to Manila.

That destination is the charming little fisher village of Coron. Technically part of Palawan, Coron has its own island and used to be part of the Philippines Island Hopping Tours in El Nido.

But it became so popular that tourists now go straight to Coron to explore all the highlights of the island separately.

The best way to explore Coron is by joining one of the boat tours around the island. These tours will take you to some of the coolest spots:

Kayangan Lake:  Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of this lake. It's accessible by a 10-minute climb and its crystal-clear water is located on a mountain wall, giving it a moonscape-like appearance. There's even a wooden pathway and platform for your belongings while you swim.

CYC Beach:  A must-visit beach on the tour, CYC Beach doesn't require an entrance fee. With its long stretch of shoreline, it's perfect for swimming. The beach offers picturesque views, unique rock formations, beautiful mangrove trees, and powdery white sand for sunbathing.

Sunset Beach:  As the name suggests, this beach is known for its stunning sunset views. It's a great spot to enjoy your lunch while taking in the beauty of the surroundings. The beach itself boasts crystal-clear water and a beautiful coastline.

La Islas de Coral:  Just a short swim from CYC Beach, you'll find Las Islas de Coral, a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. Just be cautious of sea urchins on the floor. This area is rich in colorful corals and diverse marine life.

On your second day in Coron, it's totally worth exploring Coron town. When I visited, I rented a scooter to check out the surroundings and headed straight to Cabo Beach. It's usually very empty, making it a great spot to relax in the morning away from the crowds. The scooter rental for the day should cost around 500 PHP, and the entrance to Cabo Beach is as cheap as 50 PHP.

After that, I suggest heading back to town for lunch, and my favorite spot is Cafe Socorro. They have a great selection, from super fresh smoothie bowls and juices to sandwiches. Plus, they serve up a good cup of coffee too.

For the evening, make your way to Mt. Tapayas, which is Coron's best viewpoint. Hiking up takes a while as it's stairs leading up with a total of 750 steps. I recommend starting your hike around 4-5 p.m. to be rewarded with the best sunset views on the island.

Coming back from Mt. Tapayas after sunset, and let me tell you, you'll be hungry! There's no place in Coron as fantastic as Trattoria Altore. Having spent some time in Coron, I can honestly say that this is the absolute best Italian restaurant in town. They offer an incredibly delicious spaghetti bolognese, and their pizzas and wines are simply on point.

However, it's no secret that it's the most popular restaurant in town, so it gets quite busy every night without fail. I suggest arriving before 7 p.m so you won't have to wait too long in line. Unfortunately, they don't take reservations.

Day 21: Manila

On your last day, you can easily catch a flight back from Coron to Manila. There are plenty of frequent flights, so ideally, you can fly from Coron to Manila and then straight back home. 

Just make sure to leave enough time between flights for any typical airport delays and security.

You can also choose to spend another whole day in Manila and explore some of the amazing restaurants and activities here. If you're curious about what to do in the Philippines' capital, don't forget to check out my guide on things to do in Manila .

Book Your Trip To The Philippines

Book Your Flight I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to and within the Philippines. Book Your Hotel My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com , as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings. Book Your Tours & Activities  I like finding and pre-booking tours with  Get Your Guide and Viator . You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities. Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees  I highly recommend  getting a Wise account  to withdraw money in the Philippines, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Philippine Pesos. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more than you need to. Stay Connected Anywhere Getting an eSIM card from Airalo eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees. Book Your Ferries & Buses I love and use 12Go Asia for finding all transportation options including buses, trains, and ferries across Southeast Asia. Don't Go Without Travel Insurance Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo , my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a Breathing Travel reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased !

Philippines Pre-Travel Facts

Before traveling to the Philippines, make sure you're well-prepared with everything you need to know. Figure out the best way to get there, the ideal time to visit, how you'll be getting around, the estimated expenses, and the visa process. Don't worry, I've been through it all, so I'll gladly answer your questions to make it a little easier for you!

❓ How to get to the Philippines

Manila International Airport (MNL) is the main entry and exit point for most people, with direct flights from some countries and connecting flights from elsewhere. If you're visiting the Philippines while already traveling in Southeast Asia, you can also fly to other airports within the country, such as Cebu Airport.

📆 Best time to visit the Philippines

The best time to visit the Philippines depends on which islands you're planning to visit and what kind of weather you prefer. Generally, it's best to avoid the monsoon season between June and October as some parts of the country are prone to flooding. 

The most popular months for visiting the Philippines are February to May, when there is less chance of rain and temperatures in coastal areas average around 29 degrees Celsius.

However, make sure to do some research on which islands you're exactly planning on visiting. El Nido in Palawan and Siargao are quite far away from each other and could have completely different weather when you're visiting.

🚗 How to get around in the Philippines

Getting around in the Philippines is not as easy as in Thailand as you usually have to trip back to Manila as a hub, but there are plenty of different and affordable ways to explore this beautiful country. The only thing to keep in mind is that travel can be time-consuming at times, so make sure to plan accordingly. You might even find yourself spending entire days just traveling between places, but hey, it's all part of the adventure!

By Plane:  The most convenient way to travel from one island to another is by taking a domestic flight. There are plenty of budget-friendly airlines that offer direct flights and packages between the major cities.

By Van/Bus:  For longer distances, I suggest taking a bus or van, especially on bigger islands like Palawan or Cebu. That's the easiest and most affordable way to get from A to B, especially when coming or going from the airport. It's much cheaper than paying for a private driver or taxi.

By Boat:  If you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of boat trips available to explore the islands from coast to coast. You can book day trips or multiple overnight stays on board with guided tour operators. 

By Scooter:  For shorter distances, the most popular option is to rent a scooter or motorbike. It's fun and usually quite cheap — just make sure you wear a helmet and drive responsibly.

☀️ Is the Philippines safe to travel?

Absolutely! The Philippines is generally a safe place to travel. Just keep an eye on your belongings and take the same precautions you would in any other country. Keep your wallet in your front pocket or a money belt, and leave valuable items like passports locked up at home or in your hotel room. Also, when exploring less-populated areas alone, it's always a good idea to travel in groups rather than by yourself.

✅ Costs in the Philippines

The Philippines is incredibly popular among backpackers for a reason – it's super affordable! Depending on where you're staying, your daily expenses could range anywhere between US$20 to $60.

Accommodation in the Philippines is very reasonably priced. You can find a cozy room in a hostel for around US$10-$15, and even less if you explore local Airbnbs or homestays. Plus, the food is super cheap, you can enjoy a delicious meal on the street for less than $5!

If you're planning to do any activities, like snorkeling or diving, or a day trip then they usually cost around US$30-$50 per day. And if you want to rent a scooter to explore the islands, that should only set you back anywhere between 200-1000 PHP per day. All in all, the Philippines is a fantastic place to travel on a budget!

And even if you're looking into a nice beach vacation, the high-end resorts in Boracay offer great value for money at around US$50 to $75 a night. It's definitely worth considering for what you're getting!

❓ Wi-Fi and Internet in the Philippines

Wi-Fi in the Philippines is abundant, especially in the big cities, but it's not as reliable on the islands and more remote places. If you're a digital nomad and need to work on your laptop while traveling, you can definitely find cafes and coworking spaces, sometimes the Internet can be a bit slow outside of cities, so plan accordingly. I've been to a few islands that are a little more remote so getting a good connection can sometimes be a bit of a struggle!

🏝️ Philippines Visa

When you fly to the Philippines, many nationalities get a 30-day Visa on Arrival, which is super convenient! Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and that you have an outbound ticket to show you're leaving within those 30 days. If you need more time, you can even extend the visa up to 60 days.

3 week Philippines itinerary – Final Words

If you're looking to experience the most paradise-like islands and beaches in the world without breaking the bank, then the Philippines takes the cake! It offers a great balance of adventure and leisure activities, making it one of the most cost-effective tropical getaways in South East Asia. 

This three-week Philippines travel itinerary will surely take you to most of the country's highlights, but trust me, there's so much more to see and explore in this beautiful country. With over 7,000 islands, there's plenty of room for you to come back for a second Philippines trip.

Don't forget to take some time for yourself and just relax on the beach – after all, that's what vacations are made for! 

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

About the Author: Carolin Pilligrath

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Ultimate 10 Day Philippines Itinerary – Updated For 2023

Editorial Note: Earth Curious contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

The Philippines is often overlooked by many traveling to Southeast Asia (largely because it’s outside of the traditional backpacker trail). But, as someone who grew up there and traveled extensively all over the country, let me be the first to tell you… it’s amazing. 

With over 7,000 beautiful islands, nailing down the perfect 10-day Philippines itinerary can be tricky. Luckily, I’ve done all the hard work and put together an epic 10-day adventure using my personal knowledge and experience.

Table of Contents

What to do and see in manila, where to eat in manila, where to stay in manila, what to do and see in el nido, where to eat in el nido, where to stay in el nido, what to do and see in coron, where to eat in coron, where to stay in coron, what to do and see in moalboal, where to eat in moalboal, where to stay in moalboal, what to do and see in boracay, where to eat in boracay, where to stay in boracay, day 10: manila, final thoughts:.

10 days is just about enough time to see some of the Philippines’ top sights, but you’ll be doing a lot of flying between destinations and you may have to take the occasional bus or ferry. This itinerary is also very beach orientated, but hey, with some of the best beaches in the world , can you blame me?

Day 1: Manila

For this itinerary, I’m going to assume that you’ve flown into Manila International Airport (NAIA). If you’re planning on flying into Cebu, this itinerary will still work, just substitute Cebu for Manila on your first and final day, and note that the flight times will be slightly different. 

You’ve probably flown a long way and are quite tired, so you’ve got one night in Manila to relax, but, you can always head straight out to El Nido, your next destination if you wanna skip the city slog!

The traffic in Manila is notoriously bad, so you can choose to stay near the airport, or head into Makati, metro Manila’s economic hub. The best way to travel around big cities in the Philippines is to use Grab (similar to Uber). You can download the app before you arrive, or use a Grab stand at the airport. 

If you do head into Makati, opt to take the NAIA Expressway when your taxi/Grab driver asks. It costs less than 100PHP, and you’ll save loads of time. Today is mostly for downtime, so I’d recommend grabbing some food and just relaxing.

Manila isn’t really known as a huge tourist destination and it’s seen by many as more of a layover destination. However, if you’ve arrived quite early, I’ve got a couple of suggestions on what you could do, again, just bear in mind the awful traffic…

• Fort Santiago, Intramuros – a historic citadel that dates back to 1571 and a reminder of the Philippines’ colonial past. 
• Ayala Museum, Makati – hands down my favourite museum in the Philippines and a great place to learn about the archipelago’s beautiful culture (the Gold Exhibit is particularly incredible, showcasing pre-colonial era gold artefacts).

As the country’s thriving hub, Manila is a great foodie destination. You’ll find everything from cool cafes serving up freshly-baked pastries to high-end restaurants with gourmet cuisine. Here are my personal favourites when I’m in Manila: 

• The Grid, Powerplant Mall – I eat at The Grid at any chance I get. It’s an upmarket food hall, with everything from ramen to tacos (get the ramen). 
• Manam, Greenbelt 2 – Filipino food definitely gets a bad rap, but if you’re ready to expand your taste buds, head to Manam in Greenbelt 2. You’ll find classic Filipino comfort food as well as dishes with a twist. My all-time Filipino favourties are tortang talong, kare kare, sinigang, and sisig. 
• Jollibee – With chains popping up globally, you might even have a Jollibee near you, but nothing beats the real thing. Two-piece chicken joy with rice and gravy, I’ll say no more…
• $$$ – Discovery Primea – my go-to when I’m feeling like a little luxury (watching TV in the bath? Yes please!).
• $$ – Jinjiang Inn
• $ – Z Hostel

Day 2: El Nido

Travel time: Flight – 1h 25m 

It’s time to leave the busy streets of Manila and make your way to the island paradise of El Nido in Palawan. The flight takes around one hour and 25 minutes, and when you arrive, it’s a short tuk-tuk (or tricycle in the Philippines) ride to El Nido Beach or Corong Corong Beach, where you’ll find restaurants, bars, and plenty of places to stay. 

Since all the tours leave at 8 am, you’ll probably have no time for a tour today, but you can still get some beach time after checking into your hotel.

Rent a scooter to get around, or if you don’t have a driving license/aren’t confident driving there are plenty of tricycles milling around ready to take you where you need to go! Here’s what I recommend for today:

• Nacpan Beach – a gorgeous 4km stretch of sand lined by palm trees. 
• Las Cabañas Beach – a fantastic beach to watch the sunset with views of neighboring islands.
• Tahan – This is a great little vegan place tucked away in the town (although it feels like you could be in the jungle). It’s got some serious tree-house vibes and the food is delicious! Currently (October 2022) it’s only available by reservation only, you can find their contact details here . 
• Happiness Beach Bar – A really cool place for healthy meals and cocktails (make sure to take advantage of happy hour).
• $$$ – Maligaya Beach Bungalows
• $$ – Sampaguita Villa – I absolutely loved staying here last time I was in El Nido (we were a group of four). It’s a little out of the way, but if you want a quiet base then it’s fantastic. Just be aware that the second bedroom is a loft, so it can get a bit cramped if you’re a tall person! However, it’s definitely #instaworthy.
• $ – Happiness Hostel

Day 3: El Nido

Today’s the day to hop on one of the infamous El Nido tours. There are four to choose from (more on that below), and as I mentioned earlier they all depart at 8 am, usually from Corong-Corong Beach returning at 4 pm. So, it’s a pretty full day. It’s probably better to arrange the tour the day before to make sure there’s space. 

You can take group tours or private tours, and they all include a delicious buffet lunch usually consisting of grilled seafood, pork, rice, fruits, and Filipino eggplant salad.

You only have time for one tour during this short 10-day Philippines trip, so choose wisely. 

• Tour A – The most popular tour, stopping at Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and 7 Commando Beach.
• Tour B – Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, Cudugnon Cave, and a snorkeling spot. 
• Tour C – The second most popular tour, stopping at Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Talisay Beach, and Hidden Beach. 
• Tour D – My personal favorite (and normally one of the least crowded tours), stopping at Ipil Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasandigan Island, Natnat Island, and Bukal Beach.
• Bella Vita El Nido – If you’re craving authentic Italian food right on the beach, then this is your spot. 
• Sunset at Las Cabañas – Head here for a killer sunset view and some cocktails.

Related: See The Best Of Thailand: The Best 2-Week Itinerary

Day 4 + 5: Coron

Travel time: Flight – 1h 45m or ferry – 3h 30m 

On day four you’ll either be hopping on a flight or ferry to another one of Palawan’s gorgeous islands, Coron. You’ll probably recognize Coron’s azure-blue waters and hidden limestone lagoons from social media, which helped to introduce this idyllic spot to the masses.

Aside from its mystical lagoons, Coron is well known for scuba diving, more specifically, its wreck diving. If you’re an avid diver, then I recommend diving on the same day you arrive (day 4), to make sure you have at least a 12-hour preflight surface interval before flying to Cebu on day 6. 

Unlike El Nido, there are numerous tours and tour operators in Coron, so I’d recommend picking one that includes the attractions you want to see most. Most tours last around 8 hours (or more) and include a buffet lunch. Here are my top attractions and recommendations for Coron:

• Kayangan Lake – Undoubtedly Coron’s most famous attraction, and dubbed the ‘cleanest lake in Asia’. 
• Barracuda Lake – Another lake with astounding blue waters, Barracuda Lake is still highly popular, but tends to be less crowded than Kayangan Lake. 
• Twin Lagoon – A gorgeous spot and another good choice if you want somewhere a little less crowded than Kayangan Lake. 
• Snorkelling at Skeleton Wreck – This is a great choice for someone who wants to see one of Coron’s infamous wrecks, but doesn’t have diving experience. The wreck is relatively shallow, and good visibility means you should be able to see its ghostly remains. 

Scuba Diving at one of the ‘Big 6’ Wrecks – These are known as the best wrecks in Coron, although there are countless other wrecks to choose from. The ‘Big 6’ are: Akitsushima (seaplane) , Irako, Kogyo Maru (cargo vessel) , Olympia Maru (freighter) , Okikawa Maru (oiler) , and a Japanese Freighter without a name.

• Pacifico Coron – Head here for a classic burger and fries washed down with some local craft beers. They also have lots of vegetarian options. 
• Trattoria Altrove – Brick-oven pizza and pasta dishes. 
• Sakura Ramen – Best place to get some ramen if (like me) you need to eat Japanese food on a regular basis.
• $$$ – Paolyn Houseboats Coron Island – Not a 5-star hotel by any means, but the location is unbeatable.
• $$ – Kokosnuss Garden Resort
• $ – Dayon Hostel

Day 6 + 7: Moalboal, Cebu

Travel time: Flight – 1h 40m and bus/van – 3h

It’s time to leave Palawan and fly over to Cebu, where you’ll be spending a couple of days in Moalboal. Moalboal is a chilled-out coastal town known for its sardine run, diving (scuba diving and freediving), plus its proximity to Kawasan Falls.

Once again (like so many destinations in the Philippines) Moalboal is a good diving spot, so if you plan to do some diving, try to do it on the day you arrive. Otherwise, book your flights accordingly. Here are my top things to do in Moalboal and nearby:

• Snorkeling with the sardines off Panagsama Beach – Known as the ‘sardine run’ this natural phenomenon results in thousands of shimmering sardines gathering just off the shore (it’s honestly incredible). Best seen from November to May.
• Scuba diving/freediving off Pescador Island
• Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls – Note: Kawasan Falls was heavily damaged by a typhoon in 2021, and as far as I know the waterfall is still closed (October 2022). However, canyoneering is still possible, and a good way to experience the aqua waters of the area. 

You may have heard of whale shark tours in Oslob, Cebu, or seen them on social media. I do not recommend this as it’s a highly unethical practice that results in harm to the whale sharks. You can read all about it here on LAMAVE’s (an NGO doing research in the area) website.

• Venz’s Kitchen – A great place to try some local Filipino dishes with options for vegans. 
• Hungry Monkeys – Head here for a mixture of Filipino and European dishes, plus nice sunset views from their balcony. 
• Lola Tanciang’s Sutukil Seafood Paluto – Highly recommended for anyone craving seafood, with a blend of local and European seafood dishes.
• $$$ – Dolphin House Resort
• $$ – Cebu Seaview Dive Resort
• $ – Cebu Seaview Dive Resort

Day 8 + 9: Boracay

Travel time: Van 3h and flight – 1h

For your last few days, you’ll be heading to Boracay, a world-renowned island. It got a bit of a bad rep in the last few years due to over-development and over-crowding, but a government-mandated closure in 2018 followed by the COVID-19 pandemic means that there’s no better time to visit the island than now (I went in 2021 and it was a dream). 

Boracay is the ultimate luxury beach destination, with powdery white sand, turquoise blue waters, and lush palm trees. So, get ready for a couple of days chilling out on the beach, eating great food, and doing some watersports.

• Go kitesurfing on Balabog Beach – The kitesurfing season generally runs from November to March. It’s great because while Balabog Beach can get super windy, White Beach on the other side remains calm. You’ll find a few centres along Balabog Beach. 
• Take a sunset cruise on a traditional sailboat – The sunsets on Boracay are legendary, and what better way to see them than from on the water?
• Walk along White Beach – White Beach is around 4km long, and it’s great walking along the beachfront looking for restaurants, bars, and cafes to pop into. 
• Party it UP –  The nightlife in Boracay is great, and you’ll find lively bars on White Beach (Epic and Exit Bar to name a couple).

One of my favorite things about Boracay is the blend of island life and ‘city’ comforts like great food and amazing accommodation. Here are my top places to eat: 

• The Lemoni Cafe – Whether it’s for a coffee and a cake or a delicious breakfast, I adore the Lemoni Cafe and its central location in D’Mall a short walk from White Beach. 
• Trattoria Stella – You’ll find Trattoria Stella near Diniwid Beach, one of the island’s quieter beaches. If you love authentic handmade pasta, this is the place to go. 
• Cafe Maruja – Cafe Maruja is my top pick for a seriously instagrammable cafe with a hipster menu (think smoothie bowls and matcha lattes). It’s right on the beach with awesome outdoor seating under the palms.
• $$$ – Shangri-La
• $$ – Levantin Boracay – I stayed here for three weeks in 2021 and had the best time. It’s on Balabog Beach, so it feels more peaceful, but the hotel bar is lively with tourists and locals. The place is beautiful and the owners and staff are super nice.
• $ – Boracay Backpackers

More travel content: The 15 Best Places To Visit In March: Worldwide

Travel time: Flight – 1h 10m

Today you’re heading to Manila to catch your final flight home. If you’ve got a bit of time check back to my suggestions for day 1 and where I recommend staying if you have another night before your flight.

There’s no denying that the Philippines is a stunning country filled with beautiful scenery and wonderful people. While you could easily spend years traveling around the country (trust me, I have!), this 10-day itinerary covers what I think are the must-sees. 

If you have any more suggestions to add about places to eat that you love or where to stay, feel free to drop us a comment below! Traveling to other countries in Southeast Asia? Check out our itineraries for Cambodia and Thailand .

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Philippines Itinerary: 1 Month Travel Itinerary + Budget

Home > Philippines

The Philippines are an archipelagic country in South East Asia, comprised of over 7600 islands. The Philippines prides itself on amazing beaches, beautiful nature, interesting wildlife and is one of my favorite all-time destinations to visit in Asia. In our month of travels in the Philippines we visited Cebu, Siquijor, Bohol, Siargao, Coron, and Palawan. There are places we would go back to in a heartbeat and some we would probably skip if we knew what we know now. This itinerary follows the exact footsteps we have taken when traveling there for a month.

A Detailed Philippines Itinerary

Planning Philippines was a real pain and I decided to make my Philippines itinerary as detailed as possible, so you know exactly how you can get around and how much it all costs. The Philippines might be a cheap country, but the flights and travels between the islands are not. Be prepared for those expenses to be high, especially if you are a late booker.

Day 1: Arrival to Cebu

First day in the Philippines should be spent relaxing. After you arrive to the airport, grab a taxi to your hotel and rest up. There is a big adventure ahead of you and you don’t want to start it jet-lagged.

Some facts about the airport:

• The airport is very fresh and modern.
• All ATM’s at the airport charge PHP 250 on every withdrawal and the maximum amount you can withdraw there is PHP 10,000 (roughly $200).
• You can buy a Smart SIM for 30 days at the airport, we paid PHP 1000 for 47GB – 16+1). There are two bigger companies in the Philippines and neither of them will have you covered in all of the islands. Internet is very bad in the Philippines, so be prepared to have maps and apps pre-downloaded. Hotels also have terrible Wifi.
• Download the app Grab (similar to Uber) to ride from the airport to the city. It cost us PHP 350.

Where to stay in Cebu

We chose our accommodation based primarily on the hotel being able to store our luggage. We had 4 suitcases with us (2 big and 2 hand luggage) and we really didn’t need to take all of that with us on the islands around Cebu. The ferries will charge per bag, so it made sense to only travel with our hand luggage and a smaller bag.

We booked NS Royal in Cebu City. The room and the hotel were nice, but the breakfast was terrible. I’d still say it was worth the price since they stored our luggage. We slept here for 1 night before making our way lower down Cebu island the next day.

Day 2: Cebu City to Moalboal (by bus)

Bus from cebu to moalboal:.

From the hotel, we went to the bus station in Cebu South Bus Terminal by Grab taxi. You can just show up at the bus station in the morning and buy your ticket there. They generally don’t have a set timetable and wait until the bus is full before they depart.

We paid roughly $2.40 per person for a 3,5-hour ride on a non-AC bus. Having no AC was not a problem at all, the windows are open and the bus drivers drive very fast, so it feels like you have AC 😀 If you forgot to buy water or food then don’t worry either. There will be plenty of salesmen hopping on the bus selling all sorts of food and drinks.

After you arrive you will see nothing is as cheap as those bus tickets. Once the bus drops you off, you are most likely traveling to Panagsama Beach. You’ll have to take the habal-habal from there and the price will depend heavily on your negotiation. Plan to pay around PHP 100 for the 20-minute ride. The prices are very different for locals vs tourists here and they don’t budge too much. Be careful of scammers at the station and don’t believe any locals who are trying to convince you to ride with them.

Day 3: Moalboal

Moalboal is in the mid-West of Cebu island and is going to be your point of departure for a few stunning nearby locations. We were very unfortunate with our visit to Moalboal. It was Easter and the majority of the places were either closed or extremely over-crowded with locals. Moalboal is where we also experienced the worst tourist scams and lies by the locals working in the tourist industry. Our story is probably an exception though since we met many people who loved their time here.

Rent a motorbike for getting around Moalboal. We rented ours at Majona’s and paid PHP 350 for 24 hours.

Best things to do in Moalboal:

• Snorkelling/Diving
• Sardine runs
• Kawasan Falls
• Lambug Beach

Where to Eat/Drink in Moalboal:

• Cockonuts (great happy hour offers on cocktails, 6 for $10)
• Cafe Cebuano (good comfort food)
• Smooth Cafe (yummy veggie food)

Day 4: Cebu to Siquijor (by ferry)

Start the day early and take the habal-habal from Panagsama Beach to Moalboal bus terminal, we paid PHP 150 for the ride. Once you are at the bus station you will just wait for the bus to Bato arrive. Aim to be there at around 8 am, this way you might catch the same bus as we did. After the bus arrives you’ll take a variety of transport modes. See the complete description below.

• Habal-habal from Panagsama Beach to Moalboal bus station: 20 minutes, PHP 150.
• Bus from Moalboal to Bato: 1.5 hour, PHP 103 per person.
• Tricycle from Bato to Liloan port: 10 minutes, PHP 150.
• Ferry from Liloan Port to Siquijor, Larena: 2,5 hours, PHP 200 per person.
• Tricycle from port to hotel. You will most likely have to share it, so be prepared for a tight squeeze. Price and length will depend on where in Siquijor you are staying.

The complete journey from hotel in Moalboal to Siquijor port took us about 5 hours. This journey was the longest we did on the entire Philippines travel and to be honest I was a bit worried that we will make it. But once we started, everything went very smoothly.

Day 5 – 8: Siquijor

This is my favorite island on the Philippines and my favorite on this itinerary. I would come back here in a heart-beat and spend even more time than we did. Siquijor is known to be the island of black magic and mystery, but to me it was the most perfect tropical paradise.

We booked a room at Charisma Beach Resort and to our surprise, the property was much better in real life than the photos. It had a pool and direct access to the beach. The breakfast was good, the room was clean and the AC and WiFi worked great. When we come back to Siquijor, we would definitely stay here again.

Getting around in Siquijor:

Renting a motorbike in Siquijor is easy. We asked at our hotel and they were able to arrange it the next day. We paid 400PHP per day, which gave us plenty of freedom to do whatever we wanted while staying on the island.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving a motorbike, you could opt for waving down tricycles. But beware, there are not so many on the island when it gets dark, so if you live further out make sure you pre-book your ride.

Best things to do in Siquijor:

• Cambugahay Falls
• Century Old Balete Tree
• Lugnason Falls
• Fountain of Youth
• San Isidoro Labrador Church
• Swimming and sunbathing

Where to Eat/Drink in Siquijor:

• Luca Loko – delicious breakfast
• Monkey Business – great vibe and yummy food (banana fries FTW!).
• Dolce Amore – pizza was to die for! Everything else was not worth it. PS: breakfast here was really bad.
• Beach Bar and Lounge – perfect for a sunset beer. Not on google maps, but on your drive from Charisma towards Poblacion it will be on your right.

I also wrote a more extensive guide to Siguijor Island , read here.

Day 9: Siquijor to Bohol (by ferry)

Make sure to start your day early when you travel from Siquijor to Bohol. The ferry tickets are on a first-come-first-serve basis, so you could end up without one if you’re too late. We arrived to Larena port at 10.50am and the ferry departed at 12.30. This ferry was very expensive compared to other ferries. We paid PHP 700 for the ticket per person and PHP 55 for some ridiculous terminal and luggage fees. The ride took about 1.5 hours.

Once arriving to Bohol, we took the taxi to our hotel near Alona Beach.

Day 10 – 11: Bohol

Besides Cebu, Bohol is an island we would not come back to. While it was amazing to see a tarsier with our own eyes and see the rolling chocolate hills, there isn’t that much more to do in Bohol. This island was also the most expensive and over-crowded, due to a large amount of Chinese and Korean tourists.

Best things to do in Bohol:

• See tarsiers
• Man-made Forest
• Chocolate Hills

I wrote a little more on what to do in Bohol here.

Day 12: Bohol to Cebu (by ferry)

We took the Super Cat ferry from Bohol to Cebu. The cost was PHP 480 per person. There is also an airport on Bohol island, but the flights come at a much steeper price. Once we got back to Cebu, we took the taxi back to the NS Royal Hotel (where we left our luggage). We stayed there one more night and checked out the next day.

Day 13: Cebu to Siargao (by domestic flight)

We left our hotel in Cebu with all our luggage this time and boarded our flight to Siargao with Philippine Airlines at 11.45am. Make sure you book an early flight to Siargao, the airport is notorious to having issues and lots of flight cancellations, which usually happen in the afternoon. Domestic flights were super expensive, especially for us with heavier luggage. We paid PHP 5500 ($110) per person for a one-way journey from Cebu to Siargao.

Siargao airport is very small. After collecting our luggage, we took a van to the Airbnb, PHP 300 per person. I would give you a link, but the hosts don’t have their house up for rent anymore since they decided to live in it instead. We got very lucky though and had a completely newly renovated house to ourselves. I’d recommend checking out Airbnb in Siargao, there are plenty of nice places.

Note: if you want a cheaper way to do the Philippines itinerary, then make sure you book everything far in advance.

Day 14 – 19: Siargao

Siargao was another favorite. The island is covered in palm trees. The vibe is very surf-oriented and the restaurants and accommodation reminded me of those in Bali. This island is not yet very popular, hence the WiFi and electricity are awful here and the ATM’s very unreliable. Make sure you bring enough cash before you come to Siargao!

Getting around in Siargao:

Most of the roads are very broad and empty here and the only way to get around is by renting a motorbike. The cost of renting a motorbike is around PHP 350 per day. They could give you a discount if you rent for more days. Don’t forget to ask for the helmets – no one wears them here, but you don’t want to be an irresponsible tourist. Especially not on an island that has very poor medical coverage and most foreigners prefer to fly to Cebu City or Manila City for serious injuries.

Best things to do in Siargao:

• Ride your motorbike through palm tree covered roads
• Try surfing at Cloud 9
• Tayangban Cave Pool
• Maasin Bridge, where the famous palm swing is located
• Magpupungko Tidal Flats & Lagoon
• Pacifico Beach
• Guyam Island day trip

Where to Eat/Drink in Siargao:

• Mama’s Grill – very popular Filippino grill place
• Shaka Cafe – delicious smoothie bowls
• Kermit Siargao – pizza was yuuuum!
• Common Ground Pacifico – amazing lunches
• Bravo Beach Resort – if the electricity goes out, this place has good food and internet/power

Day 20: Siargao to Coron (by domestic flight)

Getting from Siargao to Coron was not the easiest task and not the cheapest either. But the only convenient way is to fly and this is what we did. It took 2 domestic flights to get from Siargao to Coron. The views on the second flight were absolutely stunning though. The landscape in Coron was totally different from what we saw on the other side of the Philippines.

The flight from Siargao to Cebu cost PHP 3300 per person and the second flight PHP 5600 per person. These two flights are doable in one day, as long as you leave Siargao very early.

This is the route I recommend the most on this Philippines itinerary.

Day 21 – 23: Coron

Coron is a very touristy island and there is only one way to do your trip here right. DO NOT book the letter tours (A, B, C, D). Choose a private tour provider and see the sights undisturbed by masses of drunk teenagers. We had no idea private tours existed, but after walking around town for 2 hours to find a tour, we were very happy to have come across Red Carabao. They do Coron Castaway experience, where you spend one or two nights on a private beach, surrounded only by the people in your group.

We paid PHP 8000 per person for a private 2D1N tour. We were only a handful of people on board and it was an experience I would definitely do again.

Best things to do in Coron:

• Private tour of the islands
• Hike Mt. Tapyas for sunset
• Go diving/snorkelling
• Visit the Maquint Hotsprings
• Paddle a kayak in Siete Pecados

Day 24: Coron to El Nido (by ferry)

The ferry from Coron to El Nido was the worst and very expensive. We took the 12.00 Montenegro line and it cost us PHP 1790 per person. The ferry was very bad. Water leaked, the waves were horrible and it took about 4 hours to get to El Nido. If you tend to get seasick, I’d recommend you take a pill before boarding this ferry.

Day 24 – 28: El Nido

The best way to end this month, and this Philippines itinerary, is in El Nido. El Nido is on the island Palawan, and even though Palawan has a lot of stunning locations, El Nido should definitely be the one you visit first. The accommodation and the WiFi will be terrible here, but the restaurants and nature are so stunning, you’ll forget all about it.

The best way to do the island hopping tours here is to, once again, do a private tour. Doing a private tour in El Nido (more on the link) will mean that you can design your own itinerary and travel to otherwise super crowded islands totally undisturbed. We were 4 people on a private tour and had 2 islands completely to ourselves.

Best things to do in El Nido:

• Private boat tour of the islands

Where to Eat/Drink in El Nido:

• Frendz Hostel – has cheap specials every night on the rooftop and good food on ground floor restaurant
• Happiness Cafe – delicious falafel

Day 29: El Nido to Puerto Princessa (by van)

We booked a van through our hotel and got ready for a terrible, long ride. They squeezed so in so much luggage to the van it was impossible to breathe or stretch the legs. It took around 6 hours from El Nido to Puerto Princessa, but we were happy once we arrived. We booked a hotel near the airport and slept in nice accommodation for the first time in weeks. It’s a good idea that you don’t plan to fly on the same day as you do this drive. A lot can go wrong and it’s always good to have a whole day dedicated just for travels.

Day 30: Puerto Princessa to Manila, leaving Philippines (flight)

We woke up nice and rested and checked out of the hotel in Puerto Princessa. This is the last day in the Philippines and you are most likely traveling to Manila to depart home or another destination.

Philippines Travel Budget

While the Philippines are not an expensive country if you look at local prices, there is a big difference to the prices they have for tourists. Food, local transport, and activities will cost you a lot more if you do it the Western Way. The best way to keep the costs down is to bargain hard, go to supermarkets with set prices and take public transport.

Domestic flights, hotels and private tours were our biggest expenses, but without them, we would only see a fraction of the Philippines and most probably a very crowded one.

We spent around $3000 for 1 month in the Philippines (two people). Throughout our travels, we booked average hotel rooms and Airbnb’s that cost around $60 per night and decided to allow more budget towards experiences. We saved a few $$ by buying lunch at a local bakery, instead of a restaurant. You can keep these costs even lower if you stay in shared accommodation, book in advance and take shared tours. Hope this Philippines itinerary and budget helped you!

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Tiffany Wood

Wednesday 27th of September 2023

Thank you so much for posting your detailed itinerary! I am planning on going for about a month over Dec-January this year. You mentioned you were not a fan of Cebu or Bohol - if you were to do this trip again, I'd love to know what you would do differently? Were there any other islands you would have went to instead? Were you happy with the routes that you took or would you change it at all? (6 hours on a crammed bus sounds horrible haha). Lastly, how did you feel the pace was, would you add or remove a days?

I think I will be flying in and out of Manila from Toronto, Canada.

Thanks again!!

Thursday 28th of September 2023

The main reason why Cebu was a flop for us was all the public holidays (Easter). It was absolutely packed everywhere, the beaches were a mess with trash and crowds. I do think we would enjoy it outside of the public holidays though. Bohol was very pricey and not as amazing as other islands in my opinion. It was more like Thailand in a way, lots of scamming. If you do visit, stay away from the popular area I'd say, at least it was a little more peaceful. LOOOOVED Siargao and Siquijor, would legit live there for a year or two. Siargao was in a way like a mini Bali but a lot more electricity issues haha :D Siquijor was paradise that I hope never gets discovered by the masses. I think our pace was fine, we got to see everything we wanted. But if I ever come back it would be to spend more time on those two islands particularly. Hope this helps! have a nice trip :)

Saturday 15th of February 2020

We are hoping to visit the Philippines soon and this guide is so helpful!! Do you think it can be explored properly in just two weeks? or is a month essential?

The Philippines are comprised of over 7000 islands, so they can be done in any amount of weeks. The only compromise you'll need to make is WHICH islands you want to visit :) So, for all of these I would say 3 weeks is minimum, but if you leave out a couple you can do two weeks. Or you can also check back later on, I am actually making an itinerary for 2 AND 3 weeks as well ;)

Thursday 9th of January 2020

I always thought that it Philipines might be very difficult to travel around because there are so many islands. Thanks for making it easier for me!

Friday 10th of January 2020

Well, Philippines are a bit tough to be honest and we really struggled to find any information online when we traveled! So I am happy my itinerary helps you! :)

Wednesday 8th of January 2020

Thanks for the really comprehensive guide! The Philippians look beautiful! We'll definitely save your guide to reference in future if we manage a trip! Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

Meghan Emcee

I love exploring a place for a month, this is such a great in-depth guide, bookmarked for when I plan a trip there!

Explore Paradise: A 15-Day Itinerary in the Philippines

Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway that combines breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural experiences? Look no further than the Philippines! With its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and warm-hearted locals, the Philippines is an ideal destination for a 15-day adventure. In this comprehensive guide , we will take you on a journey through this mesmerizing archipelago, providing you with a day-by-day itinerary, insider tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. Get ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime as we explore the 15-day itinerary for the Philippines.

15-Day Itinerary Philippines

If you’re wondering how to make the most of your 15 days in the Philippines, we’ve got you covered. This itinerary is designed to give you a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Pack your bags, and let’s dive into paradise!

Day 1: Arrival in Manila

• Arrive in the capital city, Manila.
• Check-in at your chosen accommodation.
• Explore the historic Intramuros district.

Day 2: Manila’s Cultural Gems

• Visit the National Museum of the Philippines.
• Stroll around Rizal Park.
• Try authentic Filipino cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Island Hopping in Palawan

• Fly to Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
• Discover the enchanting Underground River.
• Check-in at your beachfront resort in Sabang.

Day 4: Palawan Paradise

• Spend a day at Sabang Beach.
• Snorkel at the stunning Sabang Underground River.
• Enjoy a relaxing beachfront dinner.

Day 5: El Nido Adventure

• Travel to El Nido.
• Island-hop around Bacuit Bay.
• Marvel at the Big and Small Lagoons.

Day 6: Beach Bliss in El Nido

• Explore Nacpan Beach.
• Take in the panoramic views from Taraw Cliff.
• Enjoy a seafood feast on the beach.

Day 7: Chocolate Hills in Bohol

• Fly to Bohol.
• Visit the iconic Chocolate Hills.
• See the adorable Tarsiers at the Tarsier Sanctuary.

Day 8: Bohol’s Natural Wonders

• Explore the Hinagdanan Cave.
• Relax on Alona Beach.
• Experience the Loboc River Cruise.

Day 9: Diving in Moalboal

• Head to Moalboal, Cebu.
• Dive or snorkel with the famous sardine run.
• Discover Pescador Island’s vibrant marine life.

Day 10: Canyoneering in Cebu

• Embark on a thrilling canyoneering adventure in Badian.
• Swim in the crystal-clear Kawasan Falls.
• Return to Moalboal for a relaxing evening.

Day 11: Siargao’s Surfing Paradise

• Fly to Siargao Island.
• Explore Cloud 9, known for world-class surfing.
• Discover the serene Sugba Lagoon.

Day 12: Island Exploration in Siargao

• Visit Magpupungko Rock Pools.
• Explore Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island.
• Savor a seafood feast at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 13: Historical Intramuros

• Return to Manila.
• Revisit Intramuros for a deeper historical dive.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Filipino entertainment.

Day 14: Shopping and Souvenirs

• Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs.
• Visit local markets and buy handicrafts.
• Prepare for your departure the next day.

Day 15: Departure

• Bid farewell to the Philippines.
• Head to the airport for your onward journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Is 15 days enough to explore the Philippines?

A:  While 15 days may not be enough to see every corner of this beautiful country, it’s ample time to experience its highlights and immerse yourself in its culture.

Q:  What’s the best time to visit the Philippines?

A:  The dry season, from November to April, is the ideal time to visit, as you’ll have excellent weather for outdoor activities.

Q:  Do I need a visa to enter the Philippines?

A:  Many nationalities can enter the Philippines without a visa for a limited period. Check the Philippine Embassy website for specific requirements.

Q:  Is it safe to eat street food in the Philippines?

A:  Street food can be delicious, but it’s essential to choose vendors with good hygiene practices to avoid stomach issues.

Q:  What should I pack for a trip to the Philippines?

A:  Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a universal adapter for your electronic devices.

Q:  Can I extend my stay beyond 15 days if I fall in love with the Philippines?

A:  Yes, you can extend your visa if you wish to stay longer. Consult the Bureau of Immigration for details.

The Philippines offers a 15-day journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and unforgettable adventures. From the bustling streets of Manila to the pristine beaches of Palawan and the surf-ready waves of Siargao, this itinerary showcases the best of this tropical paradise. Pack your bags and get ready for a vacation of a lifetime. Explore, experience, and create memories that will last a lifetime in the 7,641 islands of the Philippines.

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Full Philippines Travel Guide: 4-week Travel Route

Imagine remote islands with coconut tree fringed beaches, crystal clear waters and golden sunsets. That’s what you will find in the Philippines! Consisting of 7,641 islands this paradise spot has everything to offer from dreamy beaches, rice terraces and hiking to surfing and great diving spots. An interesting mix of Spanish, American, and Chinese cultures formed the Filipino into extremely welcoming people. In this free Philippines Travel Guide, I will share our 4-week itinerary and other important information on travelling the Philippines with you!

Philippines Travel Route

• Travel Costs
• How to get around

Safety in the Philippines

• Best time to visit Philippines

Visa Philippines

The first thing you should know about travelling in the Philippines: it takes time. There are so many islands that are all divided by ocean, which makes it impossible to explore the entire country within a few weeks. That’s why you should narrow down to the islands you really want to visit, so you can still enjoy most of the places! We managed to visit 5 islands in 1 month – let me take you to some of the country’s highlights and our insights on what you shouldn’t miss. I will also share the places in the right order how we visited them, so it’s clear how we got from one island to the other.

Are you ready to get to know how to travel the Philippines in 1 month? Read on!

Day 1 – 2: Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, will be your first stop, as it’s easiest to fly here first. This is where soon your island-hopping adventure starts. However, travellers have different opinions on the city: some like it, others not really. We had a good time in Manila, but it’s enough to spend two nights here to get an impression on the city’s life.

Rooftop view on Manila form Lub d Hostel in Makati.

Makati is the most common area for travellers to spend their nights. Here, you can also find trendy bars and restaurants. Lub d in Makati is an amazing accommodation that I can recommend with very clean, tidy rooms and super friendly staff. Moreover, they have a stunning rooftop with great city views! ➳ Tip: The most reliable and safest way to get around in Manila is by Grab Taxi.

Our room in Lub d Hostel in Manila.

In Manila, we realized that Karaoke is very popular in the Philippines and almost every single bar has some fun events going on in the nights. That’s how we ended up in a Karaoke Bar one night with several Filipinos in the middle of Manila having a few bottles of Red Horse (the most popular beer in the Philippines, don’t miss it!).

Here’s a small video that my boyfriend Ville cut together: 1 Minute in Manila! Make sure you check out his Instagram @vvictorazzo.

Day 3 – 10: Palawan

After 2 days in Manila, it’s time to finally start the island hopping! From Manila head straight to Palawan . Palawan includes some of the most popular islands in the Philippines and is full of heavenly beaches. A must include in this Philippines Travel Guide and a must-do in the Philippines!

Island hopping from El Nido to the surrounding picturesque islands is very popular.

You’ll find famous spots like Nacpan Beach , hidden paradises like Port Barton and popular El Nido , that’s especially famous for its island hopping and kayak tours. 8 days will be the perfect time to enjoy those places to the fullest. The easiest way to get to Palawan is by plane from Manila to Puerto Princesa , the biggest city of Palawan. Once you arrived at the airport you can take a shuttle to Port Barton or El Nido, depending on where you want to go first. ➳ Read: Top Places to visit in Palawan: 8-day Itinerary.

Palawan and its beautiful beaches.

➳ Tip: Book your flights from Manila to Palawan before heading to the Philippines! It will be more relaxed if you plan and book your first stop after Manila ahead, so you don’t have to spend your time on booking flights instead of exploring the city.

Day 11 – 13: Coron

Coron is the next highlight of the Philippines Travel Guide. Here it’s all about hopping from one beautiful island to another. That’s why one of the main activities to do here is booking an island hopping tour- you won’t regret! To get to Coron you can take a ferry from El Nido, Palawan that will take around 4 hours to arrive.

Coron and its beautiful azule waters from the top (before our drone drowned in the water… :D)

We loved this small island and preferred the island hopping tour in Coron, as it was less touristic and less crowded than in El Nido. But of course, there is much more to explore in Coron than only the island hopping.

➳ Read: Things To Do in Coron: 3-day Guide.

Day 13 – 20: Siargao Island

The next stop is my favourite island in this Philippines Travel Guide: Siargao Island !

Already when you arrive you’ll realize that most parts of the island are completely covered with palm trees. It’s laid back vibes, cafes and bars, surfer vibes, pristine beaches, and friendly locals are only a few of the main reasons you have to visit this island! One week is perfect to make the most of your time here.

Siargao Island is covered with coconut trees. It’s laid back vibes and beauty make it my favourite island in the Philippines.

Siargao Island is located in the east of the Philippines , which make it a big distance from Palawan and Coron. Coming here by ferry takes more than 24 hours and is quite complicated, as there are no direct ferries. Besides that, we made a really bad experience with one of the ferry companies on our way back from Siargao Island. Therefore the easiest and quickest way to get to Siargao Island is by plane. The tickets are not really cheap, but I am so glad we still decided to visit Siargao and put it on our 4-week Philippines Itinerary because you really won’t be disappointed! You can fly directly from Busuanga, Coron (USU) to Siargao Island (IAO) , which takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes. *Ticket prices Vary between US$150- US$200. Check your best flight options here.

➳ Read: Top Things to Do in Siargao – Tropical Paradise.

Siargao Island and its laid back vibes make it a paradise for every solo traveller, couples and adventurers.

Day 21: Travel Day to Cebu

Cebu is one of the main islands and transport hubs of the Philippines. Travel to Cebu by plane or ferry from Siargao Island. When you arrived at the port/airport, take the public bus to Moalboal , which is the best area to stay in Cebu. The bus ride will take about 5 more hours but is also the cheapest way to get to Moalboal.

You can spot beautiful underwater life in Cebu!

Taking the ferry

Usually, taking the ferry is the better way to travel. It doesn’t only save you money but is way more environment friendly, which is why we decided for the long way instead of the plane. To get from Siargao Island to Cebu by ferry is a very long way though and you have to take two different ferries including an overnight ferry: 1. Fast ferry from Dapa, Siargao to Surigao (1,5 hours) *Tickets: US$7 2. Night Ferry from Surigao to Cebu (8 hours) *Tickets: US$20 However, after we got scammed by the company and the ferry ride was an absolute nightmare, you should choose to go by plane, which only costs US$30 upwards.

Check flight tickets here.

➳ Must Read: Our nightmare ferry experience in the Philippines.

Night Ferry from Surigao to Cebu.

Day 22 – 24: Cebu

After your arrival day in Cebu, you can start the first day exploring with one of the main attractions this island is known for: Canyoneering in Badian . This is such a fun and adventurous activity you shouldn’t miss during your Philippines Travel!

➳ Read: Top Places in Cebu: Canyoning & Moalboal.

Kawasan Canyoneering in Cebu is a must do!

Day 25 – 28: Siquijor Island

Awesome waterfalls, turquoise waters and the perfect island to surround by scooter, that’s Siquijor . This is one of the less popular islands for tourists and for us a must include in the Philippines Travel Guide! Take the ferry from Cebu to Siquijor Island. For that you have to take a bus first to get from Moalboal down to Santander, from where your first ferry departs: 1. Ferry from Liloan Port, Santander (Cebu) to Dumaguete

2. Ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor Island (40 mins)

Siquijor Island is a small island, that’s why you can easily take a TukTuk from the port to your accommodation.

Siquijor Island offers beautiful azure waterfalls.

➳ Read: Things To Do in Siquijor: 3-Day Guide.

Day 29: Stopover Cebu

After your intense and unforgettable island hopping, it’s time to say goodbye to the Philippines. There is no airport on Siquijor Island, so you have to take the same way back by ferry that you got here. Back at Liloan Port in Cebu , take the public bus to Cebu City (4 hours), where you’ll spend the last night.

➳ Tip: If you’re not vegetarian you have to go to “House of Lechon” in Cebu City for your last dinner. This is a really delicious restaurant offering traditional Lechon. It’s a little more pricey but worth enjoying the last evening in the Philippines.

“House of Lechon” in Cebu City.

Day 30: Departure Day

Bye-bye Philippines! After so many impressions it’s time to head to back home or your next destination (whatever your plan is :D). Take a Grab Taxi to the airport to catch your departure flight.

International flights from Cebu will most likely include a small stopover to change planes in Manila.

Philippines Travel Guide: Costs

The Philippines belong to the budget travel countries. Compared to other countries in Asia like Thailand or Indonesia , it’s a little bit more expensive when it comes to accommodation. Also, you should have in mind the many transportation costs that come up to you when travelling to the different islands.

We travelled as a couple and spent around US$1,800 each for 30 days using the same travel itinerary as in this Travel Guide (budget depends on personal plans and activities & can turn out more or less than that). Have in mind that if you’re travelling as a couple or with a friend you can split the accommodation costs.

Double room: $30 per night Meals: $1 – $5 Attraction Entrance Fees: $0.5 – $10 Sim Card: $15 (9GB) (Get one that you can top up with SMART or GLOBE)

How to get around in the Philippines

Another important aspect to mention in this Philippines Travel Guide is how to get around in the Philippines. Transportation in the Philippines offers many opportunities to get from one place to another, but it’s very time-consuming. Always plan enough time to arrive on the islands and expect to be tired after your arrival. The best way to travel overland is by Grab Taxi (not available on all islands though), tricycles (Tuktuks), public buses and minivans (more expensive than buses but also more comfortable). The best way to explore the islands in your own pace is by renting a scooter . To get from island to island, take the ferry or plane. They are leaving on a daily regular basis. ➳ Good to know: Flight delays are very common in the Philippines, which is why you shouldn’t book too tight with connecting flights or activities.

Ferry to cross from island to island.

Often the Philippines are pointed out as a no-go destination belonging to the more dangerous countries to travel to, especially in the media. Well, I can tell you that this is not true! First of all, it obviously depends on where you travel to. The dangerous areas of the Philippines are located in the deep south (Mindanao area) and you should avoid coming here, also because of the risk of terrorism. Also, you have to be more careful in Manila , as robberies are more common here, but if you are aware and don’t present your values on open streets the risk is much lower. I felt really safe on all the islands we travelled to! Secondly, the Filipinos are known as the friendliest people in Southeast Asia and we felt so welcomed and taken care of everywhere we went. Besides that, all the locals understand and speak really well English, which makes it much easier to communicate and connect to them and travel around.

Best time to visit the Philippines

Usually, the best time to visit the Philippines is the dry season from December to April. You will not only make sure that the weather is on your side then, but it will also be cheaper than in the busiest and most expensive months from March to May. Avoid travelling during the typhoon season from July to October. The best to do before you decide on when to travel is to do some research on the different locations you want to see. As the Philippines are very big and the islands located in distance from each other, Coron and Siargao, for example, can have very different seasons at the same time of the year.

The last aspect to mention in our Philippines Travel Guide: the visa. The most common visa that most nationalities get is a 30-day Visa on arrival . Requirements for that are that your passport is valid for at least 6 more months after your arrival and that you have a return ticket out of the Philippines within those 30 days. The standard visa can also be extended for up to 60 days if you want to stay longer. However, always check before your trip if you need a visa! The requirements and possibilities vary from passport to passport. ➳ Click here to check if you need a visa.

View this post on Instagram TROPICAL LOVE! 🌴💦 Cut together some impressions from our trip to the PHILIPPINES last year. 🐚🐠 Thank you @vvictorazzo for making this trip even more special. 💙 Hope to get back one day to discover more of this beauty! 🤩 Are they on top of your bucket list? 😍✨ Music: Remember Musician: @iksonofficial ——————————— #visitphilippines #tropicallove #dronevideography #djimavicair #aroundtheworld #worldwanderer #travelawesomeness #traveladventures #speechlessplaces #meettheworld #travelblogs #wanderlustlife #wanderlustcouples #exploremoretoday #letsgosomewherenew A post shared by ANNA | TRAVEL | LIVING ABROAD (@annabcm) on Mar 10, 2020 at 1:07pm PDT

Here is a small insight in our Philippines Travel last year. 🙂

➳ Must Read: Saving a street puppy in the Philippines – Our story with Shaka.

I hope you enjoyed reading the Philippines Travel Guide and could take some valuable information out of it! Are you already planning your trip to this beautiful destination? Leave comments and questions below! 🙂

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Philippines Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Best Time to Go to the Philippines

• January to March | Ideal Months to Travel in the Philippines
• April to June | Summer and Peak Season in the Philippines
• July to October | Rainy and Off-Peak Season in the Philippines
• November to December | Holiday Season in the Philippines

Geography of the Philippines

• Arriving at Manila Airport: What You Need to Know

How to Get Around the Philippines

Hotels in the philippines, best hotels and resorts in luzon, best hotels and resorts in visayas, best hotels and resorts in mindanao.

• Best theme hotels and resorts in the Philippines

Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines

• Manila | The Capital of the Philippines
• Palawan | Gateway to the Best Islands in the Philippines
• Boracay Island | Tropical Paradise
• Cebu | Islands, Diving, Historical Sites, and More
• Bohol | Countryside and Island Tours
• What to Eat in the Philippines
• Suggested 2-Week Itinerary in the Philippines
• Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to the Philippines

Discover the treasures of the Philippines from beaches and islands, highlands, historical spots, and must-try food and fun activities. Find out the best time to visit and the best tourist spots. Learn how to get around from the Manila airport. Discover the best places to eat. Take inspiration from a 2-week itinerary that will take you around the best destinations in the country. Read this article for an introduction to traveling around the Philippines. 

It can be difficult to decide where to travel first in the Philippines. There are so many beautiful, postcard-worthy white sand beaches and pristine islands all over the Philippines, complete with crystal clear waters and rich and diverse marine life.

• Explore the widest collection of Philippine tours for your vacation
• Check out flights to the Philippines

Travelers who love swimming would find it hard to leave, as idyllic  beach trips , exciting  island-hopping adventures , and incredible  diving tours  are abundant here. The Philippines' beaches are among the best in the world as well, whether it's white sand, black volcanic sand, or even pink sand in some places. 

See our popular Top Tours in the Philippines

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• Find the best Philippines vacation packages for a hassle-free trip
• See destinations for solo travel in the Philippines

You can also take your pick from the Philippines' best festivals  that showcase the locals' culture and experience unique food trips that will get you craving for more Filipino food . 

If you're traveling to the Philippines soon, this ultimate guide has everything you need to know to plan your trip. 

The Philippines has two distinct seasons, wet and dry. The dry season starts from November until June. These months are considered the best time to travel to most destinations in the Philippines .

The wet season, on the other hand, is from July to October. During this time, an average of nine typhoons hit the Philippines and may cause flooding and landslides in some areas. While not all typhoons make landfall, the heavy rains may still affect your trip, so make sure to check weather forecasts. 

• Check out our  2-week Philippine itinerary packages

Note, though, that it doesn’t rain every day, nor does it rain the whole day during the wet season, unless there is a typhoon. It's still best to check the weather forecast for your Philippine destinations when planning a trip. Weather-wise, here’s what you can expect when traveling in the Philippines and where to go.

See our popular Best Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

January to march | ideal months to travel in the philippines.

January to March is usually the ideal period to travel to the Philippines. Even if there are bigger chances of precipitation, these are the months of the year when the temperature is cooler. The month of March also signals the upcoming festivals and the long weekend of Holy Week (Easter).

These months also highlight some of the biggest and grandest festivities:

The province of Aklan, where Boracay Island is located, commemorates the Ati-Atihan Festival in the second week of January. Check Boracay tours  and Boracay tour packages with hotel and airfare for your island getaway.

The highly anticipated annual Sinulog Festival   in the province of Cebu is celebrated every third Sunday of January. Check Cebu activities  and Cebu packages  for your trip.

Millions of devotees gather in Quiapo in  Manila City to join the procession during the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9.

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival is usually every February or March. For 2024, it will be held in New Clark City, Tarlac. Read our Philippine Hot Air Balloon 2024 guide to learn more.

See our popular Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Tickets & Packages

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The Summer Capital, Baguio City , parades beautifully-adorned floats with flowers during the Panagbenga Festival in February. Check Baguio tours  and Baguio package deals with hotel  to make your trip more fun and hassle-free.

There are weeklong religious activities during Holy Week (Easter) in March or early April all over the country, but more specifically in Pampanga . Check Pampanga experiences  to make the most of your vacation.

April to June | Summer and Peak Season in the Philippines

During this time, the temperature and humidity levels are highest. This marks the summer season in the Philippines. Locals plan beach getaways or vacations in their hometowns. Expect that beach resorts will most likely be fully booked and have higher rates. 

The sun is the strongest from April to June, so precautions are needed when spending most of the time under the sun. Lather sunblock every two hours to avoid sunburn.

See our popular Island Hopping Tours

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Some popular summer destinations in the Philippines include:

The natural, scenic, and hidden gems of Palawan. Check some Palawan activities  and learn more about the province in this Palawan travel guide . 

The white beaches, crystal clear waters, and extreme water sports of Boracay . 

The surfing paradise of La Union , Baler, Zambales, and Siargao. Check  Siargao adventures  and   learn more about Siargao in this guide . Book Siargao tour packages with airfare . 

The beaches and diving spots in Batangas . Explore the marine life of Batangas through an Anilao diving tour. Check other Batangas escapades .

• Check out our article on the Best Beaches to Visit in the Philippines

Aside from beaches and  island hopping tours in the Philippines, here are other summer season activities you can try:

Watch the Moriones Festival in Marinduque and how the people in Pampanga  celebrate the season during Holy Week. Check some activities in Marinduque and tours in Pampanga .

Taste the freshest catch in Dagupan City during Bangus Festival every April.

Head to Quezon Province and witness the colorful Pahiyas Festival, a thanksgiving festival held every 15th of May.

Witness the festivities and watch the beautiful women of the country all dressed up during Flores De Mayo.

Take part during the different pistang bayan (town fiestas) in the provinces of Batangas and Bulacan. 

In June, take part in the combined Pintados-Kasadyaan festivals of Tacloban City that features a sailboat race, the Subiran Regatta, and the religious rite Balyuan. Join a Tacloban city tour to get the full experience.

Join the celebration of St. John the Baptist's feast day, where locals get doused with water on June 24th. It’s officially called the Wattah Wattah Festival or Basaan Festival in Filipino. It's usually celebrated in Batangas, Bataan, and Nueva Ecija, to name a few.

July to October | Rainy and Off-Peak Season in the Philippines  

The volume of rainfall in the Philippines increases from July to August . These months are considered the wettest months, although it does not necessarily mean that it will rain all day long.

When typhoons hit, most of the islands in the country are affected, making trips around the country (depending on where the typhoon hits) difficult. Expect flight delays and even cancellations in some cases.

Philippine flights to different islands and beach resorts are cheaper during these months. Go to the beach, enjoy a food trip, or visit museums and historical places. Here are some other rainy season activities in the Philippines that you can try:

Go surfing and island hopping in Siargao . Browse our Siargao tour packages with airfare . 

Watch the dramatization of the blood compact between Sikatuna and Legazpi in Bohol during the Sandugo Festival. Check some  Bohol activities  and Bohol package deals for your escapade.

Catch the colorful Pagoda Festival in Bulacan.

Witness the street parades and dances in the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City . Check Davao activities to best experience the province.

Observe the Fluvial Parade of the Nuestra Señora Peñafrancia in Naga City.

Watch the elaborate and colorful MassKara Festival in Bacolod City. Check some Bacolod tours and learn more about the province in this Bacolod travel guide .

For Filipinos, Christmas or the holiday season starts as early as September or the beginning of the -ber months. Some establishments start to decorate their stores with Christmas ornaments as early as September 1st.

November to December | Holiday Season in the Philippines   

November marks not only the beginning of the dry season but also the start of the long holiday celebration in the Philippines. These are the best months to visit Philippine cities because of the night markets, light and sound shows, and Christmas bazaars.

• Read our article on the Top Philippine Christmas holiday destinations

November to December are the best months to do your holiday shopping, as most malls are on sale and extended operating hours. However, there are other things you can do too:

Watch the Higantes Festival (giant paper effigies) in Rizal. 

Appreciate a grand Christmas experience in San Fernando, Pampanga, and its Giant Lantern Festival. 

Enjoy the cold weather and admire the views of Banaue Rice Terraces while sipping a hot cup of tea or coffee in Benguet . 

Choosing the best time to visit the Philippines depends on what kind of activity you want to do. Come at different times to appreciate everything the country has to offer.

See our popular Sagada-Banaue Tour Packages

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The Philippines' geography  is divided into three island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Before planning a trip to the Philippines, it's important to know where your chosen destinations are. Your transportation, schedule, and budget will depend on the distances between each place. You can also book all-inclusive Philippines vacation packages that will take you around the top tourist spots in the country. 

If you're outside the Philippines, your first destination will most likely be Manila , the Philippine capital located in Luzon.  Most connecting flights to other destinations in the countries continue from  Manila Airport .

The Luzon island group also includes other big islands and island groups like Palawan, Batanes , Baguio, and Vigan . Top Luzon activities include city sightseeing, beach adventures, and some island-hopping trips. Check out the top Luzon tourist spots that you should visit. 

See our popular Luzon Tour Packages

Budget-friendly 4-day coron palawan package at skylodge resort with flights from manila & tour, 5-day nature & islands adventure package to puerto princesa and el nido palawan, stress-free 5-day coron palawan package at bacau bay resort with flights from manila.

Visayas   is located   in the central part of the Philippines. Cebu is the main gateway to other Visayas destinations. Visayas is home to destinations like Boracay, Bohol, Iloilo, Negros Region, Leyte, and Siquijor. The top activities and best tourist spots in Visayas include idyllic beaches, island-hopping, outdoor adventures, and food tours.

See our popular Visayas Tour Packages

Mindanao is located in the southern part of the Philippines. Davao City is the main gateway to other destinations in this island group, which includes Siargao, Camiguin, Zamboanga, and Cagayan de Oro, to name a few. Top things to do and best tourist spots in Mindanao include outdoor adventures, beach escapades, and island-hopping.  Check out our Davao tourist spots itinerary if you're exploring Davao City and Samal Island .

• Not sure where to start? Check out our guide to the Top 15 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines

Given the number and variety of things to do here, filling your itinerary for a week or so when traveling in the Philippines won’t be a problem. 

See our popular Mindanao Tour Packages

Arriving at manila airport: what you need to know      .

Like any metropolitan city, Manila can be confusing for first-time visitors with flights to Manila , starting with arriving at the airport. Manila international airport, officially known as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or Manila Airport , has four terminals, which are not connected via airport rail link. Consider this when booking your flights, as inter-airline transfers may be complicated.

• Dubai to Manila flights
• Singapore to Manila flights
• LAX to Manila flights
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However, there are now Point-to-Point (P2P) shuttle buses that you can board to transfer airports in the Philippines , or you can book a taxi or Grab car via the Grab App (like Uber) if you have connecting flights. You can also book rent a car in Manila services. These transport options take public roads, so allot sufficient transfer time if you plan to transit between airlines. Here's a rundown of these four airport terminals:

NAIA Terminal 1

Terminal 1 serves all the international flights from and to Manila except for the ones operated by airlines in NAIA Terminal 2 and NAIA Terminal 3.

NAIA Terminal 2

Terminal 2 houses the domestic and international flights of the country's flag carrier, Philippine Airlines, and its affiliate PAL express. Starting July 2023, AirAsia and Royal Air domestic flights have been transferred to Terminal 2. This terminal is also known as the Centennial Terminal to commemorate the centennial declaration of Philippine independence.

NAIA Terminal 3

Terminal 3 caters to international flights operated by Cathay Pacific Air, AirAsia, Emirates Airline, Cebu Pacific Air, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Delta Air Lines, All Nippon Air, and Singapore Airlines, as well as all some domestic flights of Cebu Pacific Air. It has a transit lounge (airport hotel) and a massage place.

NAIA Terminal 4

Terminal 4, the smallest of the four, serves domestic flights from CebGo, AirSwift, and SkyJet.

See our popular Manila Transfers

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• Cebu to Manila flights
• Davao to Manila flights
• Tacloban to Manila flights
• Iloilo to Manila flights

Outside Manila: Clark International Airport

A secondary international airport nearest to Manila is Clark International Airport. It takes two to three hours to travel from Manila to Clark, which is 93 kilometers away. One transport option is through the Premium point-to-point (P2P) Bus Service. This bus service has a station at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City, which is ideal if you come from the southern part of Metro Manila. If you're coming from the northern part of Metro Manila, take the P2P bus from its North EDSA MRT / Trinoma Station in Quezon City.

You can also hire a car rental service from Clark to Manila  for a more comfortable and private transportation. Just make sure you have the requirements to rent a car in the Philippines .

Currency Exchange and ATMs

All airport terminals have money changers open 24/7 in both the arrivals and departure areas. There are ATMs as well that accept foreign-issued cards though fees may apply. Read our guide about money exchange in the Philippines .

Source: https://currencyrate.today/converter-widget

Free SIM Card

Once you arrive in Manila airports, take advantage of the free SIM cards given by the Philippines' major telecommunications companies: Globe and Smart. You can top up your credit in convenience stores like 7-Eleven all over the country.

Transportation to and from the Manila airports

All Manila airports have taxi stands. You can get a coupon taxi (white) that’s dispatched by airport personnel and charged a fixed price or a yellow taxi that’s metered. Both are more expensive than regular white taxis but relatively safer to use.

There are also shuttle buses that will take you to the nearest metro station. However, if it’s your first time in the Philippines, taking this route is not as comfortable as taking either an airport taxi or booking an accredited taxi/cab, hire Manila car rental  services, or carpool through the Grab App .  If you are traveling in a big group and have a lot of luggage, booking a van rental in the Philippines  or a budget car rental in the Philippines may be advisable. 

For a hassle-free arrival or departure, check out our Manila airport transfers . 

The primary way of getting around the Philippines is by buses, planes, and ships/ferries. Boat rides are great for inter-island trips with short distances; for everywhere else, flights are recommended.

Depending on when you visit, you can find a lot of cheap flights in the Philippines . In fact, sometimes it’s cheaper to book a flight than a ferry. The biggest flight carriers are Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air, and AirAsia.   

Within small towns and cities, the primary modes of transport are bus, jeepney, or tricycle (like Thailand’s tuk-tuk or India’s auto-rickshaw, but smaller). In addition, major cities have taxi cabs and the Grab app. Only Manila has the metro system. If you want to go around the country in style, you may book an SUV rental in the Philippines or  luxury car rental in the Philippines .

You can also book self-drive car rentals in the Philippines if you want to explore on your own. Read our article on the best cars to rent for a road trip in the Philippines .

For inter-island transportation, sea transfers such as ferries are the best option. Secure your Philippines ferry ticket booking  in advance for a hassle-free trip. 

See our popular Sea Transfers & Ferries in the Philippines

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It is not hard to find accommodations in the Philippines . In top destinations, you would find various options, from 1- to 5-star hotels, ranging in price from budget to luxury. 

For budget travelers, there are numerous hostels, guesthouses, and homestays all over the country. Note that budget places are less likely to have a hot shower available, and in some places, there would be no Wifi.

It's highly recommended to book at least one night (or more) in advance, especially in popular destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Puerto Galera during peak season (e.g., summer and holidays).

Read our article guides on the best hotels and resorts in top destinations in the Philippines: 

• Best hotels in Manila
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• Best PWD-friendly hotels and resorts in the Philippines

With over 7000 islands, you will definitely need to prioritize when deciding on the places to visit in the Philippines. Much depends, of course, on how long you will have in the country and what you are interested in doing. For starters, you can check out our article on the top tours in the Philippines .

Here are some of the most popular destinations in the Philippines that you shouldn't miss out on: 

4-Day Fascinating Culture & Nature Tour Package to Cebu & Bohol with Accommodations & Transfers

Scenic 1-week beaches & nature vacation package to cebu, puerto princesa & el nido palawan, manila | the capital of the philippines.

It has, for example, the old Spanish fortress in Intramuros  that provides you with a glimpse of what the city used to be under over three centuries of Spanish rule. Nowhere is the Spanish influence seen more clearly than in the Walled City, from the cobbled streets to the restored houses. Make sure to join Intramuros tours to get the full experience.

• Check   Manila activities  that you can add to your itinerary

Highlights in Intramuros include the old churches of San Agustin, built in 1587, and the Manila Cathedral, originally built in 1571 and governed by the Archdiocese of Mexico. Outside Intramuros, there’s also the historic Quiapo Church, whose annual Feast of the Black Nazarene every January attracts millions of devotees.

See our popular Manila Tours & Activities

Manila intramuros historical express 90-minute tour in eco-friendly bamboo bike + optional upgrades, manila binondo shared walking food tour with guide, manila intramuros shared half-day walking tour with guide.

You can also try some of the trips around Binondo , the oldest Chinatown in the world. You can also watch one of the best sunsets in the Philippines along the Manila Bay at the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex.

When booking a hotel in Manila , we recommend booking accommodations either in Manila City or in Makati City . Both of these destinations have plush hotels, high-end shopping malls, and various bars and restaurants that offer a range of local and international cuisines.

See our popular Binondo Tours

Palawan | gateway to the best islands in the philippines.

You’ll see beautiful powdery, white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, towering limestones, hidden lagoons, and even a safari. 

See our popular Palawan Tours and Activities

Private el nido palawan lio airport to or from any el nido town hotel transfer service.

Puerto Princesa , the capital of Palawan, is often the first place that travelers go to, as it has frequent and affordable flights to and from Manila and Cebu. It is home to the Underground River , one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines . The city is the jump-off point for Honda Bay island hopping ,  Underground River tour , and several Palawan destinations like El Nido and San Vicente.

• Learn more in our article on the top attractions and activities in Puerto Princesa

Coron is another popular destination in Palawan. There are direct flights and boats from Manila to Coron (via Busuanga Airport, an hour from Coron town proper), making it a possible first destination for the Palawan leg of your Philippine itinerary.

If you’re into water activities, Coron is the getaway you might be looking for. It is best known for wreck diving and snorkeling, island hopping to hidden lagoons surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, and the iconic Kayangan Lake. Check out our Coron tour packages with airfare .

Google Coron, Palawan, and the first photo you'll see is of the view going to the freshwater lake. It's why Coron island-hopping  is popular with both locals and internationals.

See our popular Coron Tours and Activities

Coron is the best place for wreck diving because it has a handful of sunken ships hidden beneath its waters, some of which are big enough to be explored inside, while some are shallow enough to be seen by snorkelers. If you're not a certified diver, dive shops in Coron have Discover Scuba activities too.

• Learn more in our article on the top activities and places to see in Coron

El Nido is another well-known destination in Palawan. Over the years, the town has transformed from one that doesn’t even have an ATM and 24-hour electricity into a popular holiday destination.

There are regular island-hopping trips in El Nido that take you to various islands and beaches such as the Hidden Beach, Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Hidden Lagoon, Paradise Beach, and Natnat Beach, among others.

• Read our guide on the top activities and attractions in El Nido  

See our popular El Nido Tours and Activities

Boracay island | tropical paradise.

Boracay became a popular destination for local and international travelers because of its fine, white sandy beaches (led by the famous White Beach ), its combination of Boracay nightlife scene and family-friendly atmosphere, and its many accommodations across budgets.

Watching sunsets may be cliché to some, but the sunset in Boracay is definitely one of the best you’ll see in the country. The silhouette of sailboats, the shadows of people walking along the shore, and the sky turning from blue to a fiery red and into a faint orange is an image you won’t quickly forget.

• Browse our Boracay tour packages with airfare

See our popular Boracay Vacation Packages

Luxurious 5-day boracay package at 5-star movenpick resort & spa with airfare & chocolate hour, stress-free 4-day boracay package at tides hotel with airfare from manila or clark & island hopping.

Most Boracay hotels are lined up in White Beach grouped into Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. However, you can easily visit the other beaches there during your stay. Puka Beach, for example, may not have sand as fine as White Beach, but if you go early enough, you can avoid the crowds and have a relaxing hour or two by the beach.

Bulabog Beach is becoming a popular destination for kitesurfers. The winds here are strong enough for those who want to try something new or improve their skill. There are several shops offering lessons and provide rental gear too. 

You’ll have plenty of options in Boracay when it comes to food, as there are markets, budget restaurants, Western food, buffets, and bars that cater to different kinds of tastes. Read our article on the best restaurants in Boracay  to learn more. There are fun activities like Boracay pub crawls too! Indeed, Boracay is the destination to be if you want a bit of everything in one place.

• Read our guide on the top things to see and do in Boracay

See our popular Boracay Tours and Activities

Cebu | islands, diving, historical sites, and more.

The province of Cebu is another popular place to visit because of the range of natural, historical, and cultural attractions. 

Bantayan Island and Malapascua Island in the north are famous beach destinations because of their pristine beaches and sky-blue waters. Visitors usually combine a trip to these two destinations. Both islands provide a laid-back atmosphere if you want to just spend the whole day relaxing. 

See our popular Cebu Tours and Activities

Private cebu airport to or from any cebu city hotel transfer service, cebu moalboal sardine run, pescador island & turtle bay tour with lunch & transfers from cebu city, cebu oslob whale shark watching & moalboal island hopping private day tour with lunch & transfers.

Malapascua is best known for its thresher sharks. It's the only place in the world where this species is consistently seen almost every day. 

Bantayan Island, on the other hand, is more for beach bumming and snorkeling. It has a healthy coral garden you can explore and a long coastline of white sandy beaches.

Make sure to go to the south of Cebu as well and include Moalboal in your Philippine itinerary. This is where you can experience the famous sardine run tour . Seeing the hundreds of thousands of sardines swimming beneath you (or above you if you choose to dive) is definitely an awesome experience unique to Cebu.

A must-try during your visit to Cebu is the fun canyoneering experience . It is an adrenaline-pumping activity where you jump into a pool of water from around 25 meters high. You’ll also get to trek and enjoy some moderate hiking activities and take the plunge at the azure waters of Kawasan Falls . 

See our popular Kawasan Falls Tours

Other places of interest in Cebu province include hiking Osmeña Peak, trekking to Tumalog Falls, lounging in Tingko Beach, Lambug Beach, and Basdaku Beach, just to name a few.

• Check our article on the  Top Tourist Spots in Cebu  

Cebu City, the capital of Cebu province, is cosmopolitan and developed. You can join a historical tour in Cebu that will take you to sites like Magellan’s Cross, as well as old churches and museums, among others. There is a variety of restaurants offering local and international food, too.

If you’re a meat-eater, never miss the famous lechon (suckling pig) that Anthony Bourdain called “the best pig ever.” There are countless bars and shopping malls for entertainment as well.

The Queen City of the South has the second busiest airport in the Philippines located in Mactan , flying to 25 domestic and 22 international destinations. From here, the best beaches in Cebu are easily accessible by private transportation and public buses. 

You also have several options for accommodation, whether you want to splurge or stick to a tight budget.

See our popular Cebu Vacation Packages

3-day cebu ultimate budget vacation package with hotel, transfers & add-on tours, bohol | countryside and island tours.

The island of Bohol is another must-include in your Philippine itinerary. There are endless tourist spots in Bohol that you can visit. You can do a countryside day tour of Bohol, but why spend only one day in one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines?

Bohol has many beaches and activities for those who want to see more of the region. Make sure to explore Panglao Island to make your trip more fun and exciting! Start your trip by trying Alona Beach activities such as fly fish, UFO, parasailing, banana boat ride, and many more.

A trip to Bohol is incomplete without joining  Chocolate Hills tours . These green hills that turn brown during the summer months will remind you of Hershey’s Kisses, hence the name. The viewpoint was affected by the major earthquake in 2015, but it has since been restored.

See our popular Bohol Tours and Activities

• See our guide on how to go to Chocolate Hills

Another must-see is the tarsier, a tiny primate (around 3.5 to 6 inches long) with huge eyes that can only be found in Southeast Asia. You can visit tarsier sanctuaries in Bohol, where you can see these tiny and cute creatures (do not hold or touch them, though).

While in Bohol, try the Loboc River Cruise experience . It provides you with a relaxing and scenic way to see the countryside while feasting on Filipino cuisine and being serenaded by local performers.

Bohol also has relics of Spanish colonial times; you’ll see several old churches that provide you with a glimpse of the province’s historical and cultural heritage. While some of these churches were destroyed during the 2015 earthquake, most of them have been restored, including Baclayon Church.

These destinations are only some of the best places to visit in the Philippines. The country has plenty more to offer travelers with various budgets and preferences for their trip. 

See our popular Bohol Vacation Packages

4-day premier bohol beach club resort package with breakfast & airport transfers, what to eat in the philippines  .

Filipino food is one of the most underrated in Asia. Most international visitors know what to expect from Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Thai, and Vietnamese food but are usually totally clueless about the Philippines' local cuisine. 

Filipino cuisine is actually one of the most diverse in the world. Because of its colonial past, it has influences from the west as much as it has oriental roots. Note, though, that the cuisine is meat-heavy. Vegetarian or vegan guests traveling outside major cities may find it hard to look for restaurants that provide vegetarian or vegan options.

If you are a first-time visitor in the Philippines and don’t know what Filipino food to try, here are some of the best food in the Philippines that you should keep on the lookout for in your culinary and food trips .

See our popular Food Tours

Manila binondo & intramuros full-day tour with guide & transfers, iloilo city food tour & sightseeing with transfers | la paz batchoy, pancit molo, jaro church, bohol loboc river cruise lunch with private transfers from panglao.

The name adobo was given by the Spanish due to the similarity to adobo or adobar, a cooking practice that also uses vinegar and soy sauce indigenous to Iberia. It is considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines due to its popularity across all regions.

Sisig is a favorite pulutan (food eaten with alcohol) accompanied by a local beer. The dish is made of chopped parts of a pig’s head and liver. Onions, chopped chili peppers, eggs, and calamansi are added. It is normally served in sizzling plates.

This appetizing dish originated from Pampanga, the culinary capital of the Philippines. Hundreds of sisig variations are available today, such as tuna, squid, tuna, milkfish, and mussels. If you are looking for a vegetarian version of Sisig, some restaurants serve mushrooms and tofu sisig. Read more about it on our travel guide to Pampanga .

3. Lechon 

The pig is roasted for hours with occasional basting. It is served with a local sauce in some regions. One of the most famous foods in the Philippines, lechon is a must-try for anyone coming to the country. The best lechon in the Philippines are from Cebu. Read our travel guide to Cebu to learn more about it.

4. Sinigang

Sinigang is a Filipino soup or stew characterized by its sour and savory broth. A classic Filipino dish, sinigang is what most Filipino kids ask their moms for if they are sick. The sour taste is from the use of tamarind to flavor the broth.

This traditional food in the Philippines has evolved so much that several tamarind alternatives are being used these days. It includes guava, mango, kamias, santol, and even watermelon.

5. Caldereta

Caldereta is another classic Filipino dish and stew. This savory dish is cooked originally using goat meat, but beef, chicken, or pork can also be used these days.

Tomato sauce, liver spread, vegetables, bell peppers, and cheese are added to the meat. The name of the dish is derived from the Spanish word caldera or cauldron in English. 

6. Crispy Pata

Crispy pata or pork knuckles is a famous Filipino pork dish among Filipino family dinners.

This dish is made by boiling the entire pork knuckles with seasonings for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender. It is then frozen overnight with another batch of seasonings and then deep-fried until the skin is crispy. 

7. Chicken Inasal

8. Dinuguan

The name dinuguan derives from the word “dugo” or blood; hence the word dinuguan means “to be stewed with blood.” It is made of pig’s blood and offal.

Dinuguan is similar to the Irish black pudding except that it is a stew instead of sausage. Aside from being eaten with rice, Filipinos also pair it with puto (steamed rice cake).

9. Fish Kinilaw

Fish kinilaw is the ceviche of the Philippines. Made of raw fish, this appetizing dish is denatured using vinegar as a primary ingredient. Onions, ginger, chili peppers, black peppers, and calamansi are added for flavoring.

Popular fish used for kinilaw includes yellowfin tuna, mackerels, and marlins. 

10. Halo-Halo

Halo-halo is a Filipino favorite snack or merienda . This cold snack and dessert consists of crushed ice, evaporated milk, and various ingredients such as beans, jellies, tapioca pearls, mixed fruits, leche flan, purple yam, and even ice cream.

Halo-halo is extremely popular, especially during the summer months, to cool off from the heat. You can find a lot of food stands selling halo-halo in the local neighborhoods.

Taho (soy pudding) is a popular street food in the Philippines . This healthy snack is made of soft tofu, caramelized brown sugar, and tapioca pearls. It is comfort food that you can buy from street peddlers, usually in the morning. In local neighborhoods, local peddlers walk or bike around houses. When you hear a deep voice shouting "taho," just shout back "taho" to call the peddler's attention to buy a cup. 

For non-Filipinos, you might have heard of balut from your adventurous friends who keep telling you that you have never been to the Philippines if you haven’t tried this Filipino street food.

Balut is a boiled fertilized egg embryo that is eaten from a shell. Don’t let it scare you, though; balut tastes like an ordinary egg with a tasty soup. It's usually sold in the streets at night, with some vendors going around local neighborhoods at night shouting "balot."

Suggested 2-Week Itinerary in the Philippines        

Creating an itinerary for a trip to the Philippines can be difficult, especially for a first-time visitor. This 2-week itinerary in the Philippines will give you an idea of how to maximize your time in the country.

See our popular 2 Weeks Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

2-week stunning islands & beaches tour to coron, puerto princesa & el nido palawan from manila, amazing 2-week island hopping & nature tour to palawan, cebu & boracay from manila, best 2-week islands & adventure tour to el nido & coron in palawan, cebu, siquijor & boracay package.

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Day 1: Manila

If you only have 2 weeks, a day tour in the capital city Manila is enough. If you're spending more time here, check out our Ultimate Travel Guide to Manila .

Things to do in Manila for 1 day:

Explore Intramuros . It used to be the center of government during Spanish times.

Visit Rizal Park. It’s a favorite leisure spot for the locals.

Watch the Manila Bay sunset along Roxas Boulevard.  

Go on a Binondo food tour and enjoy authentic Chinese food at the oldest Chinatown. 

Read our article on Manila layover activities for more ideas. 

Ride a night bus going to Baguio and travel to Banaue.

Day 2-3: Banaue 

The mountain province of Banaue is famous for its iconic rice terraces. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Located at around 1500 meters above sea level, it uses an ancient irrigation system where water comes from the rainforest above it. 

Things to do in Banaue for 2 days:

Walk around the rice terraces.

Check out the local village and watch an Ifugao cultural show.

Trek to Batad and check out Tappiya Waterfalls. Depending on when you go, you can swim there, too.

If you have more time to spare, go to Buscalan in Kalinga and get a traditional tattoo from Apo Whang-Od . 

Take a night bus going back to Manila so you can arrive early the following day. 

Day 4: Layover in Manila + Fly to El Nido

If you have time to explore Manila before your flight, head to the bustling city of Makati , where you can explore shopping malls or parks, and treat yourself to a good meal or a bit of shopping. You can go to Poblacion Makati and have some drinks , get a relaxing massage , or join a game night in BGC .

Make sure to withdraw enough cash for El Nido, Palawan. The ATMs in El Nido don't always have enough cash. Many places don’t accept credit cards yet, so you might want to plan just in case.

Day 5-7: El Nido, Palawan

Things to do in El Nido for 3 days:

Join an El Nido island hopping trip  which runs for a full day. Each tour has a different itinerary, so it’s up to you to select which sites you would like to visit. You can allot 1 tour a day.

Do the Taraw Cliff via ferrata canopy walk and see the stunning view of the town and the islands. 

Drink beers or cocktails and watch the sunset of El Nido in Las Cabanas.

Day 8-9: Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Things to do in Puerto Princesa for 2 days:

Explore the  tourist spots in Puerto Princesa  City or go island hopping in Honda Bay . 

Book a tour of the underground river for Day 9 (you should book this in advance). The whole tour will take 5-6 hours.

See our popular Puerto Princesa Tours and Activities

Day 10-12: Bohol

You can’t fly directly to Bohol from Puerto Princesa, but you can fly to Cebu and then take a ferry to Tagbilaran, Bohol . The flight takes about an hour while the fast ferry takes about 2 hours.

Several fast ferries travel between Cebu and Bohol, so you shouldn’t have any problem finding transport to Bohol.

No advance booking is necessary. Just go to the ferry terminal in Pier 4 North Reclamation Area.

Things to do in Bohol for 2 days:

Do the  Bohol countryside tour  where you can visit most top Bohol attractions like the Chocolate Hills, Loboc River, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Baclayon Church, and Blood Compact Shrine. 

Join Bohol island hopping tours where you can have the chance to see dolphins and snorkel at the incredible Bohol diving sites like Balicasag Island . 

Explore Alona Beach in Panglao Island. There are several bars and restaurants there if you need a break from lounging in the beach.

For more adventurous activities, a trip to Danao Adventure Park is where you can experience the Plunge (canyon drop) as well as other exhilarating activities.

Bohol Chocolate Hills Countryside Private Tour with Transfers & Add-on Loboc River Cruise Lunch

Bohol countryside tour chocolate hills to loboc river cruise lunch with hotel transfers, bohol island hopping private tour to balicasag & virgin islands with dolphin watching & transfers.

Day 12-14: Cebu

Things to do in Cebu for 2 days:

When you arrive, go around Cebu City or book Cebu tour s and check out its top attractions, including the Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño.

Alternatively, you can go directly to Moalboal, around 2 hours from the city, where you can go island hopping and swim with the sardines if you book Moalboal tours .

From Moalboal, head to Alegria and Badian for the canyoneering and the Kawasan Falls adventure .

There are several flights from Cebu to Manila , so going back to Manila on Day 14 won’t be a problem. Just make sure to check your flights and allot extra time for delays so you won’t miss your flight out of the country! An easier way to a multi-destination itinerary in the Philippines is by booking all-inclusive Philippine tour packages . 

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to the Philippines 

Now that you know which destinations you should add to your trip to the Philippines take note of these helpful tips: 

Is it safe to visit the Philippines?

Generally, yes. But it's always best to be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure at all times and be wary of strangers. If you're planning to do outdoor activities, check out our guide on travel insurance in the Philippines .

What are the Philippine citizens called?

We are called Filipinos (not Philippinos).

What languages are spoken in the Philippines?

The Philippines has two official languages: English and Filipino. This makes it easier for travelers to get around since English is widely understood and spoken.

While Spanish was the country's official language in the 19th and early 20th centuries, only a very small percentage of the population speak or understand it now.

A lot of words, however, derive their origin from Spanish. All over the Philippines, around 180 languages (and dialects) are spoken, 12 of which are used by at least one million people.

Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines? 

Passports holders from any country except the following either don't need a visa or can pay for a visa on arrival:

Afghanistan

Bosnia and Herzegovina

North Korea

Sierra Leone

South Sudan

Taiwan (have to apply for an ETA online)

Timor-Leste

If unsure, double-check with your embassy.

Is Wifi widely available all over the country? 

Most hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in major cities would have Wifi connectivity, but the connection's quality varies widely, depending on location. You can use data but note that the signal can be weak to nonexistent in many islands. 

Can I use my credit card? 

Cash is still king in the Philippines. You can use credit cards in shopping malls and restaurants in major cities, but once you go out of the major cities, and especially in the islands, credit cards are not usually accepted.

Before leaving Manila or other major cities, make sure to acquire enough cash. A lot of destinations do have ATMs and money changers, but check before you leave.

Discover what the Philippines has to offer. With so many destinations to travel to, start planning your trip now!  Read our travel guides  to learn more and explore our collection of  Philippine tours and activities  for your trip. 

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Philippines Itinerary: 10 Days

• Updated January 27, 2024

Despite being so close to Thailand and Indonesia, the Philippines has been mostly overlooked by travelers.  In the last few years, tourists have started appreciating the charms of the rustic and untouched Philippines.  An archipelago in Southeast Asia consisting of over 7000 islands, the Philippines is breathtaking and largely unexplored.  Emerald waters kiss the shores of pristine beaches and lush landscapes beckon with promises of adventure – the Philippines has a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Ten days are in no way sufficient to traverse the idyllic and picturesque Philippines. There are so many pictorial islands, that you may need a month to explore them. Unfortunately, most of us have limited time and resources and have to plan accordingly.  With so much to see and experience, one doesn’t know where to start, and hence planning a perfect itinerary in the Philippines is not an easy job.

Getting around in the Philippines can be problematic with unpredictable weather, poor connectivity, and an erratic transport system. Don’t squeeze too much into your travel itinerary and make it all rushed. Trying to visit more than 3 islands in 10 days, may prove ambitious.  If you are planning to visit the Philippines for around 10 days and need some help to put it all together, keep reading.

Things to Know Before Traveling to the Philippines:

• The official currency of the Philippines is the peso and it is easy to exchange money in the Philippines.  Credit cards are widely accepted. You will need the Philippines Peso if you are traveling to remote areas.
• The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season from November to April. It can be scorching and humid from May to October. December is a very good time to visit the Philippines.
• Uber is no longer available in Manila and has been taken over by Grab. The other alternative is to use unpredictable public transport.
• For short distances within towns and cities, tricycles, jeeps, and motorcycles are common modes of transportation. They are relatively inexpensive and allow for greater mobility.
• The local language is Filipino, but communicating is not a big problem as most Filipinos in urban areas speak decent English.
• Accommodations can be expensive at peak times and don’t expect Western standards. However, there are options for everyone, from hostels, dormitories, condominiums, guesthouses to five-star hotels, and swanky beach resorts. Take your pick.
• Traveling on flights is not that expensive if booked in advance. Ferries are very reasonable. However, the Philippines has poor connectivity, and reaching a destination is usually tricky.  To add to the woes, flights and ferries are often delayed, disrupting the carefully laid out plans.

Philippines Itinerary: Day 1 – Manila: 

If you are visiting the Philippines, you are most likely to fly to Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. Most tourists give Manila a miss, as there is so much more to explore in the Philippines. If you arrive early, you can head to Manila Baywalk, situated by Manila Bay.  Baywalk is a vibrant seaside promenade where you can shop for souvenirs , enjoy live performances, watch the beautiful sunset, and savor local cuisine in open-air cafes and kiosks, A perfect leisure spot for the whole family.

Philippines Itinerary: Day 2 – Boracay :   

There are several flights from Manila to Caticlan, but try catching a morning one if you are not interested in chaotic Manila.  It is a short flight of 1 hour to Caticlan, the closest airport to Boracay.  However, reaching Boracay is not that simple. One has to take a short ride in a tricycle or van to the Caticlan jetty port and from there, the boat will take you to the Boracay jetty in 15 minutes. After arriving at the Boracay jetty, you must take another tricycle/van to reach your hotel. The combined tricycle, ferry, and cab ride to Boracay takes about 45 minutes. Complicated, isn’t it?  Once you have reached your hotel in Boracay, check in,  get settled, and relax.

If you don’t mind spending a little more, taking a private transfer package from Caticlan Airport to Boracay Hotel is a much smarter option. The transfer company will handle everything and you don’t have to bother about queues, taxes (terminal and environment fees), and transportation.    PS: You will need a hotel voucher from an accredited hotel to board the ferry.

Philippines Itinerary: Day 3 – Boracay :   

Pristine beaches , turquoise waters, and rave parties have made Boracay one of the most visited destinations in the world. The place is around 10 square km and is swarmed by tourists, making it the liveliest place in the Philippines. Every year, more than 2 million people visit Boracay. The popularity took its toll and Boracay was closed for a few months in 2018 for massive rehabilitation.

In spite of the heavy influx of travelers, Boracay can take your breath away and leave you spellbound. The main hub is the White Beach, a 4 km stretch of pure white powdery sand. All the resorts, food joints, and water activities can be found on White Beach. A perfect place for tourists who are looking for lively spots and don’t mind the crowds. There are other beaches like Puka Beach and Diniwid Beach if you have the time. Ariel’s Point, a small island near Boracay can be visited for cliff diving, kayaking, and snorkeling. 

Willy’s Rock, a small rocky outcrop, is a must-visit for picture-perfect Instagram posts. Sunsets in Boracay are breathtaking and what is better than taking a sunset cruise in the brightly colored Filipino sailboat – ‘Paraw’.  Sailing the traditional way and exploring the islands are some of the most popular activities in Boracay.   

Philippines Itinerary: Day 4 – Cebu City :

It’s time to leave Boracay, so return to the Caticlan airport (via cab/cycle and ferry) and catch a flight to Cebu City. The flight takes two hours. You can also use the bus and ferry combo to reach Cebu City, but travel time will increase significantly.  Cebu City is the second-largest city in the Philippines and a bustling metropolis. If you have time and inclination, you can visit the Cebu Heritage Monument and Colon Street in Cebu.

Philippines Itinerary: Day 5 – Cebu :

The island of Cebu is a complete family destination. Because of the lush rainforest and lofty hills, Cebu is home to numerous stunning waterfalls. like Tumalog, Binalayan, and Inambakan Falls. But canyoneering in the canyons of Kawasan Falls is one of the most sought-after thrills in Cebu.  Kawasan Falls is touristy and crowded, but lots of fun. The adventure takes two hours and you jump, trek, climb, and float in the deep canyons till you reach the majestic Kawasan Falls.

Another popular destination in Cebu Island is Pescador Island – a protected sanctuary for marine life.  It is a wonderful destination for snorkeling as you can observe the sardines, corals, fishes, and sea turtles closely. Dolphins are also spotted. 

Philippines Itinerary: Day 6 – Cebu :

Oslob in Cebu is the best place for watching Whale Sharks in the Philippines. You can take a bus or taxi from Cebu City, which will drop you at Whale Shark Activity Site in around 3 hours. It is an incredible and interactive experience to swim in crystal-clear water with gentle giants called whale sharks. The activity, lasting for just 30 minutes, is hounded with controversy as people feel that it has a negative impact on the animals. But it is a mind-blowing adventure to watch the magnificent animals from such close quarters.

If you have one extra day, you can book the Bohol countryside full-day tour which will take you to Chocolate Hills, Baclayon Church, Tarsier Viewing, and many other places. Chocolate Hills is a bizarre yet popular destination. Sorry to disappoint, but the hills are not actually made of chocolate. The attraction has 1268 symmetrical cone hills covered in green grass which dries up and becomes chocolatey brown during summers looking like giant chocolate kisses. It is worthwhile heading to this picturesque landscape only in the dry season. Viator has amazing options for half-day and full-day trips. 

Philippines Itinerary: Day 7 – Palawan :

After being voted the world’s ‘best island’ for continuously three years by Travel & Leisure magazine, the island of Palawan has become a trending destination. The best way to reach Palawan from Cebu is to take a short flight of around one hour to Puerto Princesa – the capital of Palawan. Palawan is truly a romantic and idyllic paradise boasting limestone caves, aquamarine waters, exotic wildlife, and staggering mountains.

Take an early flight to Palawan and use the day to visit the Puerto Princess Underground River in Sabang. The underground part of the River Cabayugan is five miles long and part of it can be explored by boat. Visitors can take a ride and marvel at the exquisite stalactites and stalagmites found within the cave. No wonder it has been named among the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2012. It is best to book in advance, as limited slots are available

Philippines Itinerary: Day 8 – El Nido :

The best way to travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is by road. It takes more than 5 hours to complete the journey by private car or van. Public buses can take anywhere between 6-9 hours. But despite the efforts and the cost, it is worth coming to El Nido. Island hopping around the bewitching small islands is highly recommended. You get an opportunity to visit some completely secluded and uninhabited islands. Visitors can easily spend the entire day chilling on the striking white beaches, admiring the spectacular cliffs, and enjoying the incredible water sports.

Time is short and instead of taking the long journey back to Puerto Princesa. It would be prudent to spend the night at El Nido and take a flight to Coron the next morning.

Philippines Itinerary: Day 9 – Coron :

Philippines Itinerary: Day 10 – Manila :

Sadly, it is time to fly back. Take a direct flight from Coron to Manila. If your international flight is late in the evening, you can do some sightseeing or shopping in Manila.

The 10-day itinerary provided is just a guide and certainly not the only way to travel the country. There are many alternative routes and locations, and it all depends on your budget , interests, and length of stay.

Looking for more places to travel on a Budget?

PC – Flickr.com

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a small commission. Thanks.

This Post Has 12 Comments

This post is very helful & informative. Great Work

We have a trip scheduled in October. Mostly scuba diving so I’m not sure how much other stuff we can see. It really looks nice but very tough to navigate. Thanks.

It is difficult to move around but worth it

this is useful because the most important locations are highlighted

This is a great guide, I had no idea that the Philippines were overlooked as a tourist destination, it’s so beautiful! I wonder if it’s because it’s tough to get around? Sounds like it’s worth it though x

Your photos are gorgeous. I haven’t really thought about going to the Philippines to be honest, but now I definitely am. There are so many things I want to experience from your descriptions.

Would love to visit the Phillipines one day but don’t know much about it so this post was helpful. There are so many beautiful regions I’d have trouble deciding!

These are some of the Beautiful places you can visit in the Philippines in the south. Thank you for sharing! More magnificent and majestic landscape awaits in the northern part of the country. A thorough research is needed when deciding where to go first. I enjoy most of my time traveling to the Philippines. Meeting with some local friends makes me more connected. So, don’t be afraid to make connections with the locals if you intend to stay longer.

I arrived in Manila1Nov 17.45by Singapore Air.Will fly back to Yangon via BBK by Thai air way on 10Nov13.10.Can you find out suitable tour10D9N from your travel agent.Please price are in A$ if possible. Than Naing,

I am just just a blogger not a travel agent, so wont be able to help in bookings.

Very useful info for a first time traveller to Phippines

Really helpful!! Bookmarked

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Philippines Itinerary – How To Spend 1 – 3 Weeks In Philippines

Posted on Last updated: 7 April 2024

Categories Itineraries , Philippines

A 3 week Philippines itinerary can be hard to plan. So here’s our tried and tested guide to the best islands in the Philippines.

Table of Contents

How To Get Around The Philippines

So we heard travelling the Philippines was one of the tougher countries when it comes to making decisions and planning a route, and it certainly was.

There is no easy way to do it. With over 7,500 islands to choose from and the popular tourist destinations scattered across the scale, here’s how we decided to it. Along with our favourite places/must sees!

For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.

🤳 Have great mobile connection in any part of the Philippines. Get an Airalo eSIM here .

Best Time To Visit The Philippines

The Philippines are most popular during the dry season, between November and April.

At this time the country is fully accessible, including its many beautiful islands and more remote areas.

Temperatures are high during March and April, so it’s best to travel during the cooler months of December to February.

This 3 week Philippines itinerary is just for guidance. If you have less time to explore, the 10 Days in the Philippines Itinerary might be helpful.

You can obviously give or take a few days, minus a few activities and even add different ones on, but we hope it helps you on your way to experiencing some of the most beautiful islands in the world.

For all the active holiday lovers, a fun way to explore the Philippines is by bike or motorcycle. Go to Bikesbooking and find a perfect vehicle for the trip.

What To Pack

Photography Camera

Reusable Water Bottle

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Quick Dry Towel

Lifeproof Phone Case

Philippines Itinerary

Palawan – 4 days.

Palawan is the furthest West of the islands and a perfect place to begin your backpacking Philippines itinerary. Also, home to the clearest water and incredible landscapes.

Palawan is a world class cultural, adventure and nature destination. From trekking through the hills, valleys, and rivers to snorkeling and diving, there are truly remarkable experiences awaiting you in Palawan.

The island province of Palawan has so much to offer to those who want to get to the heart and soul of the Philippines.

Palawan also boasts about it’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Puerto Princesa Underground River .

Tours can get busy and pricey if left to the last minute. So we recommend booking a Puerto Princesa: Underground River Full-Day Trip in advance.

If there’s one place you HAVE to add to your 3 week Philippines itinerary, it’s El Nido .

Most people go to Palawan specifically for El Nido and Coron. We didn’t make it up to Coron but you can access it via ferry from El Nido.

We’ve allowed 4 day’s for Palawan in this 3 week Philippines itinerary. Purely because it’s so unbelievably beautiful and definitely one of the best things to do in the Philippines .

Also, once you’ve flown into the Philippines, you will probably want some down-time straight away. Including making a start on your tan.

Whether you’re jet lagged and want to chill or geared up and ready for adventure, on the island of Palawan, you have everything.

Siargao – 4 Days

Next up, we flew right out East to our second favourite island, Siargao .

Siargao is a tear-drop shaped island known as the ‘Surfing Capital of the Philippines’. However, you don’t need to be a surfer to enjoy the beautiful scenery and natural attractions on the island.

Its laid back vibes and hippie atmosphere captured our hearts and if you’re looking to chill, surf or eat green, then Siargao is the place for you.

Siargao is the Philippines’ new Bali. With smoothie shacks, surfing communities, and a completely different local culture, it’s becoming one of the ‘coolest’ places in the Philippines.

We also gave Siargao a generous amount of time on the 3 week Philippines itinerary. This is because the 4th and the 8th day will be travel days. (This is the only downfall to wanting to see as much of the Philippines as possible).

In total you’ll get a good amount of time for island hopping in Siargao , surfing, eating smoothie bowls and visit all the amazing beaches the island has to offer.

Cebu – 4 Days

Cebu is the largest island in the Visayas region, and is particularly rich in Spanish colonial history. It was the original capital of the Philippines until the 17th century.

As it’s the most central island to the main places in the Philippines, it acts as a hub for flights, ferries and other efficient modes of transport.

Cebu boasts of it’s ethnically diverse population. Its inhabitants are made up of Malay, Chinese, Filipino and an ever-growing number of westerners.

It’s now considered to be the most dynamic island in the Philippines, attracting tourist from all over the world.

Home to Kawasan Falls and Oslob’s famous whale sharks, these are two of the top reasons tourists come to the Philippines!

So if you’re looking to tick them both off, it may be worth booking a Oslob Whale Shark Swimming and Kawasan Falls Canyoneering tour in advance.

Cebu island also gives easy access to Bohol and Siquijor by ferry.

After flying in from Siargao, a few days in Cebu is generally enough. This is where the waterfall adventures start. You can tick a couple of waterfalls off in a day and also try everything that Moalboal has to offer.

Down south there are some incredible waterfalls, such as Aguinid Falls and Tumalog Falls.

Bohol – 3 Days

Bohol is well known for its Chocolate Hills. There’s no doubt that it has some of the best waterfalls and beaches too.

The island of Panglao, attached to the bottom of Bohol, is a beach lovers heaven and the mainland is just screaming with adventure!

Bohol is also the home of the tarsier, the big eyed insect insect-eating primate whose size is smaller than your fist. Scientists regard the tarsier as the oldest mammal now inhabiting the earth.

We definitely recommend hopping on a scooter to explore the waterfalls if you’re adding Bohol to your 3 week Philippines itinerary.

In our opinion a couple of days in Bohol is enough.

A lot of people tend to only visit for the famous chocolate hills, however Ingkumhan Falls and the beaches were our favourite places on the island.

Siquijor – 3 Days

Another one of our faves! We loved Siquijor , and for us this was definitely one of the best things to do in the Philippines . We guess it’s because we’re big waterfall chasers.

For most Filipinos, Siquijor is a mysterious other-world of witchcraft and the unknown.

However, these days Siquijor’s most popular healing practice involves a deck chair with a cocktail, relaxing at one of it’s wonderfully affordable beach resorts.

Attractions include great diving, waterfalls, caves and forest walks in the hilly interior.

In terms of snorkelling, you’ll find that just about everywhere on Siquijor Island is good for sticking on a mask and jumping in.

Oh and if you’re a fan of cliff jumps you’re going to want to check out Salagdoong Beach .

However, don’t forget to take your flip flops with you because there is the possibility of stepping on sea urchins. And that’s not nice!

Our advice is to rent a bike and search the rope swings and cliff jumps throughout the island! Siquijor is easily in the top three of our favourite islands in the Philippines.

For a 3 week Philippines itinerary, we recommend three nights on Siquijor. In our opinion, that’s just enough time to see the quirky and different sides to it.

It’s also some of the best waterfalls in the Philippines such as Cambugahay Falls and Lugnason Falls .

And don’t forget to head to Paliton beach for at least one sunset too!

Negros – 3 Days

Negros Island is split into two provinces, the North (Negros Occidental) and the South (Negros Oriental).

We decided to visit both areas, the capitals being Bacolod and Dumaguete.

With a mixture of things to do in both capitals, you can really grab a feel for the Filipino culture or jump on boats at either end and head to the closest paradise islands.

We can highly recommend Lakawon in the North and Apo in the South!

Bacolod is not so common for tourists, so if you like to go off the beaten track then it’s definitely a good option to add to your 3 week Philippines itinerary.

However, if you do make it to Bacolod, you should definitely visit Lakawon Island and Tawhai Floating Bar !

Dumaguete on the other hand, is super popular for Apo Island .

You’re very likely to spot the most beautiful turtles when snorkelling or diving around Apo Island.

There are many boat trips to and from the port of Dauin, which is South of Dumaguete.

Make sure you definitely check out what else Dumaguete has to offer, like Manjuyod Sanbar and it’s beautiful waterfalls.

On this 3 week Philippines itinerary, we’ve left 3 days for the whole Negros island. Although we’ve listed so many potential things to do, you probably won’t get them all done in 3 days.

As we previously mentioned Negros Occidental (Bacolod) is off the beaten track and we only visited here to stay with a Filipino friend.

If you’re interested in visiting a local city in the Philippines with minimal tourists then definitely take the Negros Occidental route.

On the other hand, if you’re visiting the Philippines on holiday, then the Negros Oriental (Dumaguete) route gives you more of a touristy touch, with snorkelling tours and commercialised hotels and home stays.

Where To Stay In The Philippines

For pre-booking accommodation when travelling, we always recommend Booking.com !

From 5 star hotels, to budget backpacker hostels, it’s got everything and the site is super easy to use.

So to compare deals, and pre-book all of your Philippines accommodation, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use Booking.com to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile.

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

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Sunday 9th of October 2022

Heyyyyyy thanks for your awesome blog. I'm heading over in January do you think it's still OK to go to Siargao during this month?

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Philippines Travel Itinerary for 2021: The Ultimate Bucket List

Once an off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers in the know, the Philippines is now becoming a popular stop on the Southeast Asian backpacking route. From lush rainforests to world class beaches, the landscape is one of the most diverse we’ve ever seen. And with over 7,000 islands you really have to choose your Philippines travel itinerary carefully if you want to take in all of this incredible country. Whether you’re a true adventurer ready to take on grueling hikes up an active volcano, or prefer to spend all your time relaxing on the sand, you will not be disappointed in the Philippines!

Although we stayed in the Philippines for over 6 months, most of our time was spent volunteering with typhoon Yolanda relief in Tacloban, so we didn’t get to see as much as we would have liked. What we were able to see during our three week motorcycle trip through the Visayas, two weeks in Palawan and our weekends off from volunteering was incredible. From the famous Chocolate Hills in Bohol to walking one of the country’s longest sandbars on the incredible Kalanggaman Island, we were continually impressed with the Philippines’ natural beauty. There’s no doubt that we’ll return one day (hopefully soon!) to keep exploring.

With all those other locations in mind, to help us craft the best Philippines travel itinerary, we asked our blogging friends to tell us the spots they’d most recommend. And here’s what they said:

Tibiao: Top Ecotourism Spot in the Philippines | Nomad is Beautiful

If you want to experience village life, where locals welcome you with a huge smile and you’re surrounded by lush green forests, then Tibiao won’t disappoint you. Located on the Antique island, not far from the popular Boracay beach, this place has lots to offer to eager ecotourists.

You can learn a lot about local life while walking along the main road. Busy villagers will show you how they build fishing boats, how to produce natural salt on the beach shore or make pottery and bricks, too. If you’re lucky to make some friends in Tibiao, they might introduce you to a local healer, Remedios Maniba, who can show you that miracles are possible.  

Once you’re done with the village experience, we strongly recommend visiting a jungle near Tibiao. There you can try the zipline from above a gorgeous valley with some stunning views! Don’t miss out on jungle trekking to the Bugtong-bato Falls, where you can have a refreshing dip on the top. Tired after hiking? No worries! On the way back there’s a hot kawa bath with some soothing herbs waiting for you. There’s no doubt that Tibiao is a one of the best body and soul retreat in the Philippines.

El Nido’s Secret Beach | Teacake Travels

Far away from the increasing hustle and bustle of El Nido’s main beach there is a way better place that you can escape to! Where the crowds are nowhere in sight and the locals are chilling out in true Filipino style. Apart from one or two tourists who have discovered the secret already, you’ve got this patch of sand to yourself (woohoo!). Tuk tuk drivers are going to try and convince you that to see the best sunset in El Nido you should head to ‘Las Cabanas’. You don’t need to go there.

Skip the ride, use your legs and pop around the corner from the main drag to bid adieu to another amazing day in this tropical paradise. The cheapest beer on the island is also here as well as a lovely table (there’s just one!) where you can pitch your bottom and soak up all the beauty. To find out this location, pop along to Teacake Travels to get the coordinates!

Siargao: A Little Island With A LOT Of Good Vibes | Backpacker Banter

Over the last few years I’ve been island hopping all over the globe – the allure of empty beaches, barefoot living and pumping surf constantly driving my travels. But from the first time I stepped foot on  Siargao Island  in the South of the Philippines, (about an hours flight East of Cebu) I knew I’d found my ultimate island retreat.

Siargao – and in particular the General Luna are – ticks all the boxes for a traveling surfer or anyone looking to kick back on island time. Enjoy world class waves such as Cloud 9 or start to learn on fun breaks like Jacking Horse or Dacu – my personal favourite. The palm tree fringed beaches are near empty and the lagoon surrounding the island is the ideal place for a high tide swim, kayak or SUP in the clear, warm waters. And the best thing about it all? It doesn’t come with a budget killing price tag!

Dedicated surf camps offer great surf and stay packages, restaurants like Mamas Grill and Kityas serve up a range of local and western dishes and there are a few budget hostels kicking around too if you’re really wanting to live on a dime. One part of me wants to tell everyone about it, the other part wants me to keep this slice of Filipino paradise secret a while longer…

Heading to the Philippines and want to know what to pack? Check out our GIRLS and GUYS packing lists for SOUTHEAST ASIA!

Snorkeling in Moalboal |  One Modern Couple

Cebu is an island filled with activity, but between exploring Cebu city and heading north to the beautiful outlying islands, it’s easy to miss out on one of the most amazing experiences the island offers – snorkeling in Moalboal.

Moalboal is a snorkeler’s playground with clear water, a large coral reef and plenty of marine life to be found. By hiring a boat, you can spend several hours in the waters off Moalboal, and around the nearby Pescador Island, observing some incredible underwater life and enjoying island life in the sun. In fact, if you look carefully you’ll most likely see several sea turtles and clown fish up close! The sardine run, one of the most unique and fascinating sights, can also be found in these waters where a huge school of countless sardines swim in one unbelievably large group.

Snorkeling in Moalboal is one of the best experiences to be had while visiting the Philippines. It showcases the natural beauty of the country and its islands, and after a day spent in the water, you can come back to the shore and enjoy some fresh and delicious local cuisine.

Diving in Coron | Travelstache

One of the most unique experiences you can have in the Philippines, and possibly the world, is in Coron. Here you can scuba dive the famous WWII Japanese ship wrecks. These ships have been at the bottom of the sea since a U.S. airstrike back on Sept. 24, 1944. On this day the U.S. sank 24 ships that were part of the Japanese supply fleet, 12 of them are now accessible to diving today.

This is an adventure not for the faint of heart. You’ll be diving down around 100 feet, making your way inside through gaping bombed out holes. Swimming through the narrow passages is like stepping back in time, you get to see the actual supplies still laying as they were. The hundreds of cement bags still intact and ready for delivery and the anchor awaiting deployment. It’s an experience that will send chills through your body and bring you down to the deep dark depths of history.

Off The Grid at Danjugan Island | The Crowded Planet

The highlight of our time in the Philippines was definitely spending three days in Danjugan Island , a tiny island off the coast of Negros Oriental managed by a conservation NGO. We had the chance to meet the president of the foundation, who told us that he purchased Danjugan to save it from overfishing and development. If it wasn’t for them the island would probably be covered in concrete tourist resorts with jet skis buzzing back and forth.

Instead, it’s an Eco paradise. There’s no wifi or electricity and we stayed in a cabana, made with mud from the island, that was powered by solar panels. During the day we walked along the islands trails and visited the ‘bat cave’, or kayaked to a magical lagoon that looked like it was out of Jurassic Park. We watched the sunset every night, in silence, then watched the sky being lit by a million stars. It wasn’t just an amazing holiday and we know that our stay in Danjugan made a difference and helped conserve this fragile environment.

Stand Up Paddling on Loboc River, Bohol | Love and Road

The Philippines is all about pristine beaches and watersports. Within the island life paradise, however, we found a different way to enjoy it! A unique experience we had in Bohol Island was the stand-up paddle on the Loboc River . The river is huge, clean and surrounded by forest, the perfect spot for SUP. We got on the boards and paddled for hours. The water is very calm and you don’t need to be a professional surfer to enjoy it.

It was a perfect afternoon with the birds singing, a few kids playing on the river banks and the sun shining through the green water. The scenery is beautiful, peaceful and you feel like you own the river. We managed to stay dry during the paddling, but afterward Rob decided to overcome his fear of heights and jumped into the river from a swing on the top of the tree. Nothing like an adrenaline rush to end our SUP tour! It was definitely an unmissable experience in Bohol Island. After the SUP, we recommend strolling around the village and trying some local food, especially the malunggay soup and the sweetest mangos you’ll ever eat!

Port Barton, Palawan | Moxie and Epoxy

If you’re looking for some peaceful time away from the crowds, you may want to put Port Barton on your travel list. Located between El Nido and Puerto Princesa, this quiet town is a real escape. While much of the Philippines have been “discovered,” Port Barton sits on the verge, maintaining a rare and sincere charm. I spent more than a couple of nights admiring this appeal with fellow travelers. We wandered down the dark, empty streets finding cozy eateries and commenting on how nice it was to be left alone without tricycle drivers or tour guides hounding us for their next commission.

Boat tours are available daily, and you can find a captain on the beach to negotiate a price – roughly half the price of a tour in El Nido, if done properly. Currently, the town of Port Barton only has electricity from 5pm until midnight, though some of the hotels have generators to supplement. I was told that by the end of 2016 new generators will help to provide the town with electricity 24 hours a day, who knows if that will happen on schedule! Despite the lack of electricity – and therefore wifi – there is plenty of infrastructure to support what is sure to be a growing tourist market in the town. The beach is lined with cool hotels and cafes; I even found this adorable tree house on the beach for $20/night.

Flower Island | Nomadic Boys

We visited the Philippines in 2015 and completely fell in love with it. So so many islands to explore. Our favourite from the ones we visited were the islands just off Palawan, in particular, Flower Island.

Flower Island is a tiny island around 40 minutes speed boat ride from the Tay Tay harbour on Palawan. It is located right in the heart of a pearl farm, which we got to visit during our stay there. The Philippines specialises in producing golden pearls, which is a very complex process taking over 2-3 years to produce the perfect shape and color golden pearl.

There’s only ever a handful of people on the island: a few locals and tourists like us coming to soak up the Robinson Crusoe like feel of the place. The island is surrounded by untouched and very healthy coral, making it a paradise for snorkelling. And the sunsets, every evening…incredible! We loved our time here and definitely want to return.

Under the Waves around Moalboal, Cebu |  Art of Scuba Diving

Diving in Moalboal is something you don’t want to miss. I dove in a lot of great locations around the Philippines, but Moalboal possibly had the greatest diversity! From the incredible and famous Sardine Run, to overloads of turtles, and fun little wrecks, there was always something new and exciting to see. On one single dive just off shore from my dive resort, I counted no less than 20 turtles, some small and some enormous.

There’s even a purposely sunk little air plane in one dive site, that makes it a unique dive, and on the same site there are countless nudibranch sightings and other macro critters. When not diving, the beaches around Moalboal offer some great white beaches, nice bars, and tasty restaurants. To get there, it is about a 4 hour bus ride from Cebu City.

Caramoan Peninsula |  365 Travel Dates

These days the Philippines travel buzz is all about Palawan, especially El Nido, but another deserving part of the Philippines archipelago is the Caramoan Peninsula . Camille and I visited Caramoan two years ago, and on a spontaneous trip with our families we ended up back there earlier this year.

The location of the reality show Survivor helps prove its worth as an off-beaten-track destination with a high dose of raw beauty and empty beaches. The active adventurer won’t be left disappointed, as you can go island hopping, snorkeling, rock-climbing, kayaking, caving, and any other water activity you can imagine.  For those looking for less adventure than Survivor you can pop into one of the many home stays in the Caramoan town. Given it’s remote location, tourism shouldn’t negatively affect the area for years to come, but with that said the best time to come is now.

Swimming with Turtles on Apo Island |  Don’t Forget To Move

We spent six months in the Philippines so we have a long list of recommendations for travelers heading that way. Our all-time favorite spot, however, would have to be Apo Island in Negros Oriental. On the coast of this small island one of our biggest bucket list items came true – swimming with wild sea turtles ! The locals set up a marine sanctuary just off the shore to protect these beautiful sea creatures after the turtle population was decimated by hunting.

We swam side by side with dozens of turtles, watching in awe as they floated around, munching on algae. Although the island itself is tiny (there are no main roads or cars!), it’s a popular day trip for snorkelers and scuba divers. Not as many tourists explore the town on the interior of the island, however, but we highly recommend it. We loved exploring the narrow alleyways, watching the kids fight spiders and chatting with older locals who have been on the island for decades. We couldn’t recommend it more!

Getting a Visa for the Philippines

For the most part travelers visiting the Philippines won’t need to obtain a visa if they intend on visiting the country for 30 days or less. Travelers from Australia, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Western Europe and UAE citizens can enter the Philippines and obtain a 30 day visa on arrival given they have a valid passport with 6 months before expiry, proof of a return flight out, a hotel booked and sufficient funds to sustain their time while in the country.

That said, if you plan on staying in the Philippines for longer than 30 days you will need to get a visa. We recommend researching your specific country to find out the visa requirements before planning a trip. In a lot of cases you might be required to obtain eTA travel permit. For example, the Philippines eTA for UAE citizens is easy enough to obtain, but you’ll need to make sure you organize it before you leave on your trip. Thankfully the wait time is typically only 3 business days.

Don’t forget your swimmers! Check out our GUYS and GIRLS packing list for SOUTH EAST ASIA!

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28 thoughts on “philippines travel itinerary for 2021: the ultimate bucket list”.

Love love the Philippines! Can’t wait to get back. Second El Nido, it’s AMAZING!

We can’t wait either! Especially back to El Nido!

Hey! Everyone says go to El Nido but what was your form of travel getting there? I’ve heard it’s either a 6 hour boat ride or a 6 hour can ride. It sounds worth it though. What was your adventure?

6 hour bus from Puerto Princesa. Is a terrible ride, but would travel for days to get there if i had too. Stunning!

I´ve been on Palawan in June 2015 and fortunately the road to El Nido is paved and much better now. If you’re heading north from El Nido (which i strongly recommend 🙂 ) it was a different story..

Great post with amazing tips. If only we knew all this before… We just returned from the Philippines and it looks like we have to go back. Theee is so much more to see.

We did a few islands in the Visayas. Loved Siquijor and Malapascua.

Oh well, that means you have an excuse to go back again haha. Glad you had fun! We didn’t get to Siquijor, but heard it was really beautiful. Thanks for the comment 🙂

Oh man, I’ve been wanting to go forever and you’ve all just made me even more desperate!

It’s time Katie! So many options to choose from 🙂

Siquijor Island! Stay there and do the day trip to Apo Island. Great places to stay, great sunsets, large enough to explore by motorbike, and amazing waterfalls!

Great suggestion. Next time!

Hey Jules & Christine! As someone who lives in the Philippines, I truly envy both of you for being able to do these adventurous experiences. I’m actually making a promise to myself that I should explore the Philippines more and enjoy what the Philippines can offer.

When you go back to Cebu, you should definitely visit Kawasan Falls. Kawasan Falls is located at Badian, Cebu. What I love about this falls is how clear and how blue the water is! It actually looks like the drink, gatorade. HAHAHAH. To add to this experience, you can even do canyoneering.

Thank you for this suggestion Gene!

Great post and amazing pics. Unfortunately I have never been in the Philippines but it´s on my bucket list. I hope I will visit some of the islands in the Philippines next year.

So much to see in the Philippines! Living in Hong Kong, it’s very convenient to go there, only a couple of hours. So far I’ve only seen Boracay for a weekend, but I’m really looking forward to explore more… Your list is very inspiring!

Good list! Try the islands off the eastern side of Luzon, Jomalig, Polillo and Cagbalete to name a few.

Ahhh I suggest u check out the pristine beaches at Tablas Island, Romblon <3 If ever you find yourself in Bora, it's a 30-minute boat ride from there, but there are also direct flights from Manila. God, it's only slightly short of heaven

I lived in the Philippines for six years and loved every bit of it. The beaches were definitely my favourite, including Coron in Palawan, Tamaraw Beach in Puerto Galera on Mindoro, and the small Island of Romblon. One thing I would recommend if you want to visit but have an aversion to extreme heat is to spend some time up in the mountains. There are plenty of beautiful places like Baguio, Banaue (world famous rice terraces!), and Bagabag which offer genuine Filipino culture, food, and scenery without the typical tourist beach experience.

Thanks Dawn, great tips! Unfortunately we didn’t make it up there, but next time 😀

Nice list! Experiences the Philippines quite some time but still haven’t heard of many of these places before – definitely sound like great places to visit. We particularly enjoyed Palawan a lot – would add the beautiful island of Siquijor here as well 🙂 Thanks for the inspiration.

Great list… I’ve been in the Philippines last year and loved them..

Hi! A proud Filipino here. Glad you enjoyed our country. If you happen to plan another trip to the Philippines, you might want to consider islands in Luzon like Romblon and Marinduque, and Camiguin Island in Mindanao.

Wow great photo’s. The Philippines are on the top of my list! Hope to visit it soon, looks amazing. x

Hi! My fiance and I are thinking of going to the Philippines for our honeymoon this fall. Specifically, Palawan. Do you know the name of the tree house in your post? We would love to stay the night in it but I can’t seem to find it! Loved your post and I think it made the decision for us!

I believe it may have been Ausan Beach Front Cottages in Port Barton. But if you want a really rad place to stay in Palawan, check out The Birdhouse in El Nido. A really awesome place. Tell them Jules and Christine from Don’t Forget To Move sent you and they’ll look after you 🙂 Have a wonderful time in the Philippines!

Thank you for writing about Apo Island. 🙂 and Yes, Siargao is one of the places in the Philippines where you just want to go back. Glad you enjoyed your stay and helping other people decide to have their vacation in the Philippines.

Fantastic list! Philippines sure has lots of gorgeous islands to visit. The only place that I’ve visited in your list are Cebu and Bohol. Too bad though that I haven’t tried board paddling and scuba diving there. But still, I’ve enjoyed their scenic beauty during my stay there. Glad you had an awesome time!

Nice article! I have gone for a holidays to Philippines with my family. It is such a wonder full experience. By reading your blog I am recollecting my holidays trip.

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3 Weeks In The Philippines Itinerary

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

The Philippines is one of the most diverse countries in Southeast Asia . The culture, language, and traditions are split between Asia, Spanish, and the Pacific.

It is a popular destination for beach holidays due to the many scenic beaches, diving spots, and snorkelling adventures a traveller can do here. Many visitors don’t know that the Philippines is also an ideal destination for hiking. 

In this article, I will show you a sample of 3 weeks in the Philippines itinerary covering all major regions, including fun activities. There are plenty of direct flights to the Philippines from the US and some from Europe . Hong Kong, Japan, the Middle East, Singapore, and Thailand are the most popular connections.

MIGHT BE OF INTEREST : 3 weeks in Thailand and 3 weeks in Indonesia

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO THE PHILIPPINES

Before you start packing your swimsuit, there are things you should remember that will help you write or plan your own itinerary that suits you. These tips should help you write your travel itinerary and create a better 3-week packing list .

When is the best time to travel to the Philippines

The best time to visit is between November and March because these months are generally the dry seasons. December to February offers such an amazingly cooler temperature. However, December is super busy, which is the peak month driving accommodation prices high.

I highly recommend you avoid April and May, when it’s too hot to do anything . At the same time, June to September is prone to typhoons , which are not only a bad time for any beach holiday but also lead to many flight cancellations.

ALSO READ: Best beach destinations for a 3-week trip and how to plan a beach vacation

Are 3 weeks enough for the Philippines

20 days in the Philippines is a reasonable amount of time . Of course, the more, the better. However, having limited time doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit.

In 3 weeks, you can visit cities, explore the islands, go hiking, and learn about the country’s rich culture. You can list 4-5 cities to include on your Philippines itinerary . With careful planning, you can really maximise your time (e.g. choosing cities that are near one another or have direct flights to each other).

To make the most of your time, it’s best to take a domestic flight when possible instead of travelling on the road. It’s also essential to have some sort of itinerary to have a visual idea of your trip. This will also help you check how to get from one place to the other the best way.

3 weeks in the Philippines budget

This country is very affordable if you want to spend 20 days here. The accommodation is the most costly part of the trip compared to its neighbouring countries, but it offers lower quality. It’s still cheaper than Europe or Norther America, though.

During my 20-day trip to the Philippines, I spent around $1,500. I travelled comfortably, stayed in private rooms in mid-range hotels and ate out the entire time.

You can make it more affordable if you don’t mind sleeping in bunk beds in a hostel and eating street food. A shoestring budget for the Philippines will be less than $900 for a 3-week trip .

If you plan to splurge a bit, perhaps you are on your annual holiday, wedding anniversary, or honeymoon, $2,500 will make your trip luxurious . A $100-a-night room will book you in a four or five-star resort, and you can dine at fancier restaurants.

Language and currency

English is one of the primary languages in the Philippines, together with Tagalog . Most of the street signs, the law, and announcements in public areas are in English.

You will be able to communicate with locals in English, but learning some basic phrases is highly appreciated, such as salamat (thank you), kamusta (hello/how are you), and magkano (how much).

The Philippine peso (PHP) is the currency here , and ATMs only spit out pesos. ATMs also only dispense a maximum of $200 (10,000 PHP per transaction. Cash is still the king here , but places like restaurants and hotels accept payment by bank card.

How to get around the Philippines

This country’s primary means of transportation, especially in rural places, are tricycles, jeepneys, and buses . I n the cities, you can use ride-hailing apps like Grab, (car/taxi), Joyride (motorbike), Moveit (motorbike), and Angkas (motorbike).

In Metro Manila, there are railways. However, these are very busy and often too crowded during rush hour.

Due to its thousands of islands, the best way to get from one island to another is by bus, boat, or flying . You can rent a car in Manila, but it will cost a fortune to bring it on a ship. There are no global car rentals in Metro Manila, such as Avis, Budget, etc.

You can take taxis in some places within the island and provinces, but usually, a tricycle or bukyo, and jeepneys are the standard options. J eepneys are hard to use though. Make sure to ask a local if the jeepney is going to the place you wish to go.

Flying can be a challenge here as well. Not all islands have direct flights to one another. In some areas, you must connect back to Manila or Cebu. This is the reason it’s vital to plan your trip accordingly.

First, list the places you want to see and check online how to get from one place to another. In this way, you can always avoid tracking back to Manila.

Visa and COVID-19 Policy

The Philippines is very welcoming; in terms of local hospitality and visa policies. Almost all nationalities get to enjoy free-visa between 30 to 59 days . Travellers with passports from South Asia, Central Asia, and some African countries have to apply for a visa beforehand.

Extending your visa is not a problem as well . Simply look for an immigration office near your current location while in the Philippines, and you can choose to extend your visa for a few days up to three months for a fee.

The Philippines is now open to tourists who are fully vaccinated. One must present their vaccination certificate (from WHO) or through your country’s official department. Unvaccinated visitors must present a negative result of a rapid COVID-19 test. You should also fill out the eArrival Card 3 days before you arrive in the Philippines and screenshot the QR code.

It is still required to wear masks in public transportation and healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

Other travel tips

Booking your accommodations should be done as soon as you know your travel dates especially if you plan to travel in December, March, April, or March to avoid running out of options. When it comes to domestic flights and buses, you can usually leave this at the last minute.

Below are my favourite travel sites that offer flexible cancellation in case you change your mind or travel itinerary.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN THE PHILIPPINES (pinned map)

Click the top-right logo to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN THE PHILIPPINES ITINERARY

The Philippines is a tropical country with 7,640 islands with three main geographical divisions: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Since it is an archipelago, the Philippines is surrounded by lush trees, mountains and various bodies of water, making it a perfect destination for nature-related activities. Such as hiking and water activities.

Aside from that, this country is also brimming with diverse cuisines and cultures due to being colonised by the Spaniards, Japanese, and US Americans.

This 20 days in the Philippines itinerary is divided into three sections . One week in Luzon/capital region, one week in Visayas (the islands), and one week in the south (Palawan/Siargao).

You can also save time, money, and avoid stress by booking a package tour. The tour company will arrange your transportation, accommodation, and activities. Check the itinerary of this 17-day tour .

Day-to-day overview

• Day 1 : Land in Manila. Get transferred to your hotel and use this day to get a local simcard with data.
• Day 2 to 5 : Explore Metro Manila, maybe a day trip to Tagaytay too or go to Baguio and Ilocos
• Day 6 : Travel from Manila to Boracay by air
• Day 6 to 8 : Enjoy Boracay Island
• Day 9 : Get to Cebu from Boracay
• Day 9 to 12 : Discover Cebu
• Day 13 : Travel to Bohol from Cebu
• Day 13 to 15 : Travel around Bohol
• Day 15 : Fly to Palawan or Siargao
• Day 15 to 20 : Explore Palawan or Siargao
• Day 21 : Fly back to Manila to catch a flight home or to the next destination

Week 1: Luzon for 6 days (Metro Manila and Tagaytay or Bagui and Ilocos)

I only recommend you spend 2 days in Manila, the capital city . One, because it’s super traffic, and two, there’s little to do here regarding historical places (except Intramuros). However, it’s a great area to do some street food exploration. You can also book a day trip to Tagaytay from Manila, which is a time-saver.

There are a lot of places to visit in Luzon alone, but these three places are some of the must-visits . The first one is the province of Benguet, which consists of the city of Baguio, the summer capital of the Philippines. Baguio is famous for its cool climate, cooler places, and activities for the whole family.

Two ways to reach Baguio from Metro Manila : riding a bus or booking a private car. The fastest options would be riding a taxi or driving, but they are also the most expensive. The bus ride is around 6 hours, and the ticket costs $15-$18 per person.

The second is Ilocos . The region of Ilocos is well-known for its historic and well-preserved structures, as well as its beaches and sumptuous foods. It is north of Baguio.

Some of them include Vigan’s longanisa and empanada , which are very different from the usual longanisas and empanadas .

To reach Ilocos from Baguio , you can take a bus, which you can find at Partas Bus Terminal near SM Baguio. The travel time is approximately 5 hours, depending on the number of stops. You can also take a bus down to Laoag and then to Bantay Ilocos Sur. From there, Vigan is just a short ride.

Another way to approach Baguio and Ilocos : You can fly to Laoag, the only airport in Ilocos. Stay and explore for about 2-3 days, then take a nearly 5-hour bus south to Baguio for another 2-3 days. Finally, head back to Manila by bus or car to take a flight to the Visayas.

Week 2: Visayas for 7 days (Boracay, Cebu, Bohol)

The archipelago of Visayas has so much to offer, from diverse culinary to scenic views and historical buildings and welcoming people . You’ll find yourself falling in love with the place and staying there for at least 7 days during your 3 weeks in the Philippines.

A visit to the Philippines is incomplete without visiting the most-admired island in the country – Boracay . You can fly from Manila, but you have to travel down to Manila from Vigan/Ilocos. It’s better to take a flight from Laoag to Boracay , which connects to Manila.

Boracay is known for its fine white sand beach, crystal clear water, and lively vibe in the evening. You can enjoy some boat trips, including island hopping, or sign up for some snorkelling and diving activities.

Boracay went through some cleanup and massive renovation to protect the island. It was closed for a period of time, which was also timed during the outbreak of COVID-19. When Boracay finally opened up, the beach was much cleaner, the roads were better, and the water was much clearer too.

You will either land in Caticlan or Kalibo . From Caticlan, you will take the ferry to Boracay an then an electric tricycle (tuk-tuk) , motorbike taxi, shuttle bus, or service from your hotel/resort. You must take a 45-minute minivan ride from Kalibo to Caticlan, then the ferry.

From Boracay, you can head to the city of Cebu . It is known as the Queen City of the South as it is Visayas’s trade and industry hub. There are many water activities to do in Cebu. It’s a great place to do some diving, snorkelling and canyoneering. Check out Kawasan Falls and Moalboal as day trips from Cebu City.

From Boracay, there are direct flights to Cebu ; the travel time is around an hour, and the ticket costs $40-$90 per person. Caticlan offers a non-stop flight from Kalibo; you need to connect to Manila.

Next, head to Bohol . It is the tenth-largest island in the Philippines, famous for its beaches, national parks, and resorts. Since bodies of water surround the Visayas, the most common mode of transportation is via ferry. The ferry travel time from Cebu Port to Tagbilaran or Tubigon in Bohol is about 2 hours .

However, for those who fear seasickness, there are choices for the faster ferry at a higher price. You have to ride a bus first before riding a ferry.

Compared to those who opt to ride the ferry immediately, the travel time for this is between 4 to 6 hours. Your trip would be worth it because there are tons of things to do and see in Bohol.

Week 3: Palawan or Siargao for 8 days

Palawan is famous for its karst rock formations and impressive biodiversity . It even has an underground river where you’ll see various stalactites and stalagmites in the caves. There are three significant areas in Palawan: Coron, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa.

I recommend you choose between El Nido or Coron to spend 3 days, then head down to Puerto Princessa for 2 days. Both Coron and El Nido are famous spots for snorkelling and diving.

If you are not a fan of those activities, you can simply fly directly to Puerto Princesa and go to Sabang, where the Underground River is.

There are direct flights from Cebu to Coron and Puerto Princesa . Unfortunately, no non-stop flights from Bohol (Panglao) to Coron or Puerto Princesa exist. All flights connect in Manila or Davao.

That’s okay, though, because you can fly to Coron and then make your way down to Puerto Princesa, where you can finish your trip and take a flight back to Manila. Or you can do it the other way around. Fly from Cebu to Puerto Princesa, travel up north and end up in Coron, where you can fly directly back to Manila.

If you want to visit Siargao instead of Palawan , that’s also a great choice. I used the word “or” because there are no direct flights between these places. You can fly directly to Siargao from Cebu, but you have to make a connection from Panglao.

Siargao is a teardrop-shaped island famous for being the surfing capital of the Philippines . There are also tons of other activities that you could do here, including rock climbing, cliff diving and the like.

Spending eight days in Palawan is easy, but over a week in Siargao can be too long. That many days in Siargao is perfect unless you’re an avid surfer. If you like a laid-back setting where you spend hours on the beach or on a hammock, Siargao is an ideal place to end your 3 weeks in the Philippines

THINGS TO DO IN THE PHILIPPINES (by city)

Now that you have some ideas on where to spend your 3 weeks in the Philippines, it’s time to show a list of activities and must-see places in each destinations:

Metro Manila

• Explore New and Old Manila – join a walking tour with a local guide
• Visit Intramuros – via a bamboo bike tour
• Explore street food in Manila
• Day trip to Taal Volcano and Pagsanjan Falls – this will save you time from travelling to Tagaytay
• BenCab Museum
• Burnham Park
• Attending the Panagbenga – Flower Festival in February
• Mines View Observation Deck
• Baguio Botanical Garden
• Baguio City Public Market
• Strawberry Picking – seasonal
• Mount Pulag
• Horseback riding at Taal Volcano Island – you can also do a full-day trip from Manila (horseback riding not included)
• Puzzle Mansion Museum
• Picnic Grove
• People’s Park
• Fantasy World
• Vigan City – especially Calle Crisologo
• Bangui Windmills
• Sumaguing Cave
• Bomod-ok Falls
• Paoay Sand Dunes
• Banaue Rice Terraces – is located 6 hours both from Vigan and Baguio
• Book an airport transfer from Caticlan to Boracay round-trip or a one-way transfer
• Beach-hopping boat tour with snorkelling – book a tour
• Fun sunset cruise – check the price
• Party at Station 1
• Try out parasailing – tandem or solo
• Go kite surfing and windsurfing
• Underwater Dive – full helmet tour or go scuba diving
• Sign up for a pub crawl
• Drive a jet ski- get on a tour

Cebu and Bohol

• Kawasan Falls – go canyoneering, check the tour reviews and the price
• Taoist Temple
• Magellan’s Cross
• Mactan Shrine and Mactan Island – sign up for an island-hopping boat trip
• Fort San Pedro
• Chocolate Hills
• Tarsier Conservation Sanctuary – you can do a Bohol day trip to cover all the top attractions in just a day
• Loboc River Cruise
• Hinagdanan Cave
• Panglao Island – join a tour that covers Bohol and Panglao Island
• We do not recommend Whale Shark watching in Oslob due to ethical reasons

TIP : You can also book a full-day tour to Bohol from Cebu to avoid staying overnight in the town.

• Twin Lagoon – you can do the ultimate Coron boat tour that highlights the must-see lakes/lagoons
• Kayangan Lake
• Maquinit Hot Spring
• Barracuda Lake – there’s also a boat tour to Barracuda, Twin Lagoon, and Skeleton Wreck
• Siete Pecados
• Banul Beach
• Skeleton Wreck – you can snorkel and kayak here
• Firefly Watching
• Las Cabañas Beach
• Tour A – Bacuit Bay, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos
• Port Barton – located between El Nido and Puerto Princesa, a place away from big crowds
• Tour B – Bacuit Bay, Popolkan Island, Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island
• Nacpan Beach
• Tour D : Hidden Beaches and Lagoons

Puerto Princesa

• Underground River – you can book a guided tour for convenience
• Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
• Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Center
• Honda Bay Island Hopping – get on an island-hopping trip
• Iwahig Firefly Watching Mangrove and Wildlife Park
• Day trip to El Nido – check the tour reviews and the price
• Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park
• Cowrie Island
• Sugba Lagoon
• Magpopongko Rock Pools and Flats
• Tayangaban Cave Pool
• Sohoton Cove National Park
• Green Lagoon
• Guyam Island
• Jellyfish Sanctuary – combo with Sohoton Cave for a day trip

DISHES FROM THE PHILIPPINES THAT YOU SHOULD TRY

The Philippines might not be known for its cuisine, but if you know what to look for, you can definitely find some tasty and must-try dishes here. Here’s a list of awesome dishes from the Philippines that you should try:

• Adobo : Chicken or pork marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, then browned and simmered.
• Sinigang : Sour soup made from tamarind, often with pork, shrimp, or fish.
• Lechon : Whole roasted pig, crispy on the outside and tender inside.
• Kare-Kare : Oxtail stew with a peanut sauce, often accompanied by eggplant and string beans.
• Pancit : Noodle dishes with a variety of ingredients, such as Pancit Canton or Pancit Malabon.
• Bicol Express : Spicy dish made of pork, shrimp, or fish cooked in coconut milk and chilli.
• Laing : Dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, chilli, and shrimp paste.
• Paksiw na Bangus : Milkfish stewed in vinegar and spices.
• Halo-Halo : Mixed dessert with shaved ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, leche flan, and ube topped with ice cream.
• Bibingka : Warm rice cake topped with butter, salted egg, and cheese, traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season.
• Puto : Steamed rice cakes, often served with savoury dishes or enjoyed on their own with a slice of cheese on top.
• Calamansi Juice : Freshly squeezed juice from calamansi (a small citrus fruit), sweetened to taste.
• Tuba : Fermented coconut sap, also known as coconut wine.
• Sago’t Gulaman : A refreshing drink with tapioca pearls and gelatin cubes in caramelized brown sugar syrup, served cold.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE PHILIPPINES (by city)

To finish off, below is a list of hotels you can check out when booking your accommodations in each city, depending on your budget:

Vigan, Ilocos

• Affordable to Mid-range: Vigan Traversa Hotel or The Orange House or Hotel Veneto De Vigan or Dry Heritage Suites
• Luxury: Paradores de Vigan or Hotel Mercante
• Affordable: Z Hostel or Lub D Makati or Abraham Makati
• Mid-range: Novotel Hotel Cubao or Hotel 101 Mall of Asia
• Luxury: Okada Hotel and Casino or Discovery Primea or Citadines Makati
• Affordable: Jacobs Hill or Tagaytay Staycation
• Mid-range: Taal Vista Hotel or Quest Hotel
• Affordable: Chill Out Hostel or Frendz Hostel
• Mid-range: The Piccolo Hotel or Hue Hotels and Resorts
• Luxury: Henann Crystal Sands Resort or Movenpick Resort and Spa
• Affordable: 210 Apple Tree Suites or Laguno Hostel
• Mid-range: Sugarsea Inn & Dive Shop or Les Maisons D’Itac
• Luxury: Quest Hotel or Crimson Resort and Spa
• Affordable: Dayon Hostel
• Mid-range: Charms Hotel or Skylodge Resort
• Luxury: The Funny Lion
• Affordable and Mid-range: Frendz Hostel or Spin Designer Hotels
• Luxury: Nacpan Beach Glamping or Maligaya Beach Bungalows
• Mid-range: Cleon Villas or Dolce Vita Hotel
• Luxury: Aziza Paradise Hotel or Munting Paraiso

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is a beautiful country with many scenic spots and adrenaline-inducing activities. In fact, many other beautiful places and cities weren’t included on the list because you would definitely have to extend your stay to these different places, including Rizal, Laguna, Batangas, Dumaguete, Siquijor, Boracay, and the archipelago of Mindanao. 

Nevertheless, we hope you enjoyed this compilation of itineraries for a 3 weeks holiday in the Philippines. In case the Philippines is not for you or is unsuitable for your travel date, I recommend you check out our 3 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary, spend solely in Vietnam for 3 weeks , or 3 weeks in Japan and South Korea .

SAVE THIS ITINERARY ON YOUR PINTEREST:

Dive Into Philippines

4 Perfect 1 Week Philippines Itinerary🏝️ Options For Your Ultimate Vacation!

Are you looking for a 1 week in Philippines itinerary?

Lucky you! The Philippines is a fabulous country to visit and while a week in the Philippines will never allow you to explore the whole country, you can have a great taste – especially with a fabulous Philippines itinerary: 7 days!

However coming up with the perfect 7 day itinerary Philippines can be hard with so many great choices. That’s why I have done the hard work for you!

Below, you will find our four best options for the best 1 week Philippines itinerary. You simply need to decide which destinations sound the most interesting for you and then you can follow that exact itinerary.

Whether your perfect one week in the Philippines itinerary includes beaches, jungles, culture, rice terraces, wildlife or a mixture of this, you can find your best option for one week in Philippines below.

If you have slightly less time and are looking for a Philippines itinerary 5 days, we also include some suggestions on how to edit the 7 day ones to be perfect for a Philippines 5 day itinerary or less time.

Let’s start!

Visiting for longer? Find our 10 day itinerary here, our 2 week itinerary here or our full 3 weeks to 1 month Philippines itinerary here .

Table of Contents

Philippines Itinerary 1 Week: Rice Terraces And Hanging Coffins In Luzon

The main island of the Philippines, Luzon is bounded by the Philippine Sea in the east, the Sibuyan Sea in the south and the South China Sea in the west, giving a dramatic coastline that stretches for over 3,000 miles (5,000km). The interior is a vast mix of rice terraces, valleys, lush jungles, cave systems, mist-filled mountains and the dramatic pine forests of the Cordillera Region. Luzon is also home to the bustling metropolis of the national capital Manila, Spanish colonial towns such as Vigan, and the almost perfect stratovolcano, Mayon.

On this wonderful one week Philippines itinerary, discover the northern mountainous interior at Sagad, the “Eighth Wonder of the World” Banaue Rice Terraces – home to indigenous hill tribes – and the capital city of Manila.

Taking a one-way route from Tuguegarao to Manila, from where you can easily extend your stay flying on to any other domestic destinations, this is perhaps the best itinerary for Philippines exploration within 7 days.  Let’s get started!

Day 1 Tuguegarao

Capital of the province of Cagayan, in the northeastern part of Luzon, Tuguegarao City is well serviced with flights from Manila and other Philippine domestic airports.

If you have time after arrival, take a trip to the Callao Caves in the nearby town of Penablanca, or stay within Tuguegarao City and admire the Buntun Bridge, Horno Ruins, San Jacinto Church and Tuguegarao Cathedral.  …before enjoying some of the local culinary delights.

The birthplace of pancit batil patong – a stir-fried noodle dish topped with carabeef, crushed pork, liver, veggies, poached egg and eaten with a side dish of garnished garlic and egg-drop soup – you won’t go hungry here! Delicious.

Best Accommodation: Radlett Residences – Tuguegarao

Budget Accommodation: Mango Suites

Days 2-4 Banaue

An early start today, with a bus ride to Banaue taking around 5 hours (200km). Soak in the views along the route and wave at the friendly Filipino as you pass through villages.  …and finally, you’re ready to hit the rice terraces!

Spend your days hiking and admiring the dramatic world-renowned scenery of the Banaue Rice Terraces, carved into the mountains of Banaue, Ifugao. Built approx 2000-6000 years ago, most likely by hand, it is said that if all the terraces were built end-to-end they would cover half the world!

For your first afternoon, we recommend taking a tricycle up to Banaue Viewpoint and trekking 3-4 hours back down the trail.

On day 3, head to Batad where the scenery is miraculously even better! Aim for Batad Saddle, approx. 40 minutes by tricycle, and the ideal place to start your hike. Trek through the town and head out to the 230ft high Tappiya Waterfall, all the while carefully balancing on (sometimes slippery!) rice terraces and enjoying the remoteness of this outstanding area.

Best Accommodation: Banaue Hotel

Budget Accommodation: Batad View Inn and Restaurant

Days 4-6 Sagada

Start your trip to Sagada with a 4-hour bus or van ride – timetables can be checked here .

Set in the Cordillera Mountains around 5,000ft above sea level, Sagada is known for its scenic and calming mountain valleys, rice fields, limestone caves, waterfalls, and cliffs that seem to poke out of a sea of clouds. Cool mountain-temperatures make this an ideal spot for hiking and the town is famous for its Hanging Coffins either inside caves or on the face of cliffs at Echo Valley.

A 30 minute hike from the town, visiting the Hanging Coffins is an excellent way to spend your first afternoon in Sagada.

On day 5, you have many options with stunning hikes:

• Marlboro Hill to Blue Soil trek
• Sumaguing Cave
• Lumiang Burial Cave
• Marlboro Hills

Or choose from any number of activities such as Spelunking at Sumaguing Cave, visit Mt Kiltepan – one of the highest peaks in Sagada – to catch the sunrise, swim at Bomod-ok Falls or learn more about Sagada at the Ganduyan Museum, right in the centre of town proper.

Please note that it is mandatory to have a guide at many of the Sagada attractions; thus it is best to go straight to the tourist office on arrival to arrange everything.

Best Accommodation: Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge

Budget Accommodation : Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe

You can also find our full guide to where to stay in Sagada here.

Day 6 and you are now heading to Manila by bus, which is usually quite the adventure in itself! Approximately 12 hours, you can find timetables and prices here.

Day 7 Manila

The final stop on this Luzon itinerary is at the capital, Manila. Perhaps not having the best reputation, the city definitely has its worthwhile attractions and offers another side to this great nation.

We recommend visiting and exploring Intramuros (“within the walls”). Founded in 1571 by the Spanish, this historic walled area was once the entire City of Manila. Today, discover the existing Gates, Fort Santigao and its surrounding park, San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral. Drop by the Rizal Museum, near to the Fort, to learn of the local history and the national hero, Jose Rizal.

With wonderful Spanish influences, cobblestone streets, plazas and churches, you’ll feel transported from Asia to perhaps Latin America! Click here to buy discounted tour tickets now.

Best Accommodation: Raffles Makati Hotel

Budget Accommodation: Maine City Residences

That’s it, your Luzon one week itinerary Philippines is over. If you have time to extend your stay perhaps jump on a quick flight to the beaches of Palawan and Coron…

7 Day Itinerary Philippines: Stunning Coastlines In Gorgeous Palawan

Considered one of the world’s most beautiful islands, Palawan is a dream destination. If you have seen stunning photos of the Philippines coastline, most likely you were looking at Palawan! A long thin island, set off in the west of the country surrounded by the South China Sea, the list of reasons to visit Palawan are endless… stunning beaches, the UNESCO Underground River, epic snorkelling and scuba diving, friendly local people, fresh seafood, one-after-another of sun-soaked desert islands, and the world famous archipelago of Bacuit Bay, El Nido.

The best Philippines 1 week itinerary for beach lovers and underwater enthusiasts and also a favourite backpacking Philippines itinerary, you will delve into the northern part of Palawan and up to Coron, on Busuanga Island.

Get your camera and swimwear at the ready as there’s a lot to fit into this week!

Days 1-2 Puerto Princesa

Arrive into Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, by flying into the town’s International Airport. Only 1h30m from Manila and less from Cebu, the city is very accessible. Check into your accommodation and after a short relax, head out to discover this cleanest-and-greenest city of the Philippines.

Join a half day City Heritage Tour or self discover Palawan’s rich history by dropping into the World War II Museum, Plaza Cuartel and the nearby Palawan Heritage Center. End your first day either on an organised trip for dinner and Fireflies Watching, or head to the Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park for grilled seafood with friendly locals.

On day 2, take a day tour to the spectacular UNESCO Puerto Princesa Underground River. Flowing through a limestone karst cave system, the river passes jaw-dropping stalagmites and stalactites, and rock formations. Keep an eye out for various wildlife, such as bats, birds and reptiles!

Best Accommodation: Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel

Budget Accommodation:  Hostel Privado

Days 3-5 El Nido

Early morning, grab a shuttle to El Nido, with the aim of reaching Bacuit Bay by lunchtime. Taking approximately 5 hours, you can find prices, times and tickets here . There is also a cheaper public bus, but it is far from comfortable and takes an hour longer, thus best to avoid!

The gateway to the stunning limestone karsts of Bacuit Bay, El Nido is a gorgeous coastal town that still retains a “local” feel, unspoiled as yet by tourism. Check into your hotel and relax after your long journey.

Choose from any number of activities for your first afternoon, such as…

• Swim at the local beaches – almost all world class, with epic sunsets
• Go kayaking
• Hike to a waterfall: Nagkalit-Kalit or Bulalacao
• Ride the Las Cabanas Beach Zipline
• Head up the El Nido Canopy Walk for splendid town and bay views

End your day with a well-earned massage!

On day 4 it’s time to get out on the water, selecting from the four official tours of Bacuit Bay, labelled simply A, B, C and D. Choose from different boats (pump boats or speed boats) and consider to save money by joining a group trip or splurge on a private arrangement. Feel free to barter your way to a good deal with the operators!

Departing from El Nido beach, tour options include:

• Tour A: Take a trip around the beautiful islands of Bacuit Bay, including the famed El Nido Lagoons. Find a discounted ticket for this tour here.
• Tour B: Swim and snorkel at Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island and Cudugnon Cave. Here’s a luxury wooden boat option.
• Tour C: Enjoy Helicopter Island, Tapiutan Island, Secret Beach and Hidden Beach. Here’s a luxury speedboat option.
• Tour D:  Visit hidden beaches and lagoons such as Cadlao Lagoon and Pasandigan Beach. Here’s an option for a luxury catamaran.

Best Accommodation: Cauayan Island Resort

Budget Accommodation:  Amakan Bed | Bunk | Breakfast

Find our full guide to the best places to stay in El Nido here.

Days 6-7 Coron and Surrounding Islands

Sadly, it’s time to leave behind El Nido and head to the equally famous destination of Coron Town. Located on the island of Busuanga, Coron Town is often confused with the nearby island of Coron, so ensure you’re heading to the right place!

With similar scenery to El Nido, Coron Town is more chilled, with fewer crowds and an even stronger local Filipino feel.  …and in our opinion, you’ll find the best snorkelling and diving here.

Depart from El Nido on an early ferry to maximise your time in Coron. It’s a five hour fast boat that takes you past the remote and stunning islands of the Linapancan municipality- noted by many magazines as having the clearest waters in the world. Therefore, this is perhaps the best boat ride in the world!

You can find schedules and prices here.

Stay directly in Coron Town, where the ferry drops you, surrounded by tour operators for ease of arranging island-hopping tours. Alternatively, choose to stay at one of the nearby islands – definitely more beautiful but will involve more travel and they can sometimes feel a little remote. It depends on what you enjoy!

Choose from any of the following activities:

• Visit Kayangan Lake pictured above ( discounted tour here )
• Island hopping day trips ( discounted tour here )
• Snorkelling
• Twin Lagoons ( discounted tour here )
• Maquinit Hot Springs

You can find more information and tour options here.

Best Accommodation: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa

Budget Accommodation: Treetop Suites

Find our full guide to the best places to stay in Coron here.

Book your flight out of Coron for late afternoon on day 7 as this is one destination you won’t be happy to leave!

…or extend your stay, and follow another of our Philippines suggested itinerary, such as hitting up the jungle and beaches of Bohol and Cebu!

1 Week Philippines Itinerary: Tarsiers, Jungle And Beaches In Bohol And Cebu

A popular Philippines one week itinerary, here you split your time between charming Cebu and beautiful Bohol, taking you on an epic travel itinerary for Philippines discovery!

An island in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, Cebu is another long, narrow island that is home to the port capital, Cebu City known as “Queen City of the South”. One of the oldest cities in the Philippines, Cebu City still retains the roots of its 16th-century Spanish colonial past.

Famous for its lechon (roasted pork), magazine-worthy picturesque white beaches, sparkling waters with rich coral reefs, and friendly people that are famed for their singing, guitar-playing and dancing skills, it’s no wonder Cebu City is a major tourist destination.

Bohol, only 90 minutes by ferry from the Cebu Port, is also noted for its spectacular beaches – especially at Panglao – and rich sea life, with an interior of jungle forests and the unique Chocolate Hills, home to the world’s smallest primate, tarsiers.

Day 1-2 – Cebu City

Arrive into the Queen City of The South by flight, landing at the recently remodelled International Airport – just an hour’s flight from Manila or 1h25m from El Nido.

Fly in early so that you have the whole day to explore the city. From the airport head directly to Tops Lookout, approximately 40 minutes, for a dramatic view across the city and on a clear day far out to Bohol and other islands. Take a stop at Temple of Leah on your way back down to the city.

Next, discover the local history at Magellan’s Cross, marking the spot where Portuguese and Spanish explorers first landed in the Philippines in 1521. Take in more of this Spanish heritage at the adjacent Basilica Minore del Santo Nino and Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. Also explore the nearby ruins of Fort San Pedro.

The easiest way to get around is via taxi, just always ensure the driver clicks on his meter and don’t take no for an answer!

In the evening, head to one of the city’s Malls for shopping and try the region’s famous pork Lechon for dinner.

Best Accommodation: Radisson Blu Cebu 

Budget Accommodation:  La Gloria Residence Inn

Day 2 and it’s time for a day trip to discover the south of Cebu island, choosing from any of the below locations…

• Enjoy a trio of picturesque waterfalls, accessible via jungle trails. Take a dip in the icy waters and balance on a thrilling bamboo lagoon ride under the cascading falls.
• Grab snorkel and fins and check out some of the country’s best reefs. Look out for the spectacular sardine-run, a year-round natural phenomenon, which you can reach simply by walking out from the shore at Panagsama Beach. Only 15km from Kawasan Falls, with an early start and a lengthy day’s touring, it is possible to combine both trips.
• One of the highest mountains in Cebu, part of a cluster of green jagged hills that hug the shorelines of Badian, Osmena Peak has an easy 30 minutes trail. Explore remote villages inhabited by vegetable farmers – often at work ploughing their fields using cows or large ox – and to a background of crowing roosters, enjoy the easy hike to the summit. Foggy in the morning, it’s usually best to schedule your hike in the afternoon.

Click here to buy discounted Kawasan Waterfalls & Osmena Peak Day tour tickets now.

Day 3-5 – Bohol

Time to catch the fast ferry to Bohol, less than 2 hours sail from Cebu City port. Ferries run a regular service and you can find more information here , or read our full guide to travelling in Bohol here.

Hire a driver-with-van or barter a good deal with a local taxi driver, and spend the afternoon on day 3 and all day on day 4 discovering the wonderful sites of Bohol…

• Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
• Chocolate Hills
• Sagbayan Peak
• Loboc zipline and chairlift at Loboc Eco Adventure Park
• Loboc river cruise
• Firefly watching
• Sipatan Twin Hanging Bridges/Bamboo Hanging Bridges

To really explore Bohol’s jungle interior, we recommend staying at the Loboc River Resort – with many jungle activities right on site and magical fireflies in the evening!

Best Accommodation: Loboc River Resort – I can’t recommend this place enough.

Budget Accommodation:  Water to Forest Ecolodge Bohol

You can read our full guide on where to stay in Bohol here.

Day 6-7 – Alona Beach, Panglao

Time to leave the jungle interior behind and cross a short bridge to the adjacent island of Panglao, a quick 30 minutes drive. Mainly renowned for the busy area of Alona Beach, the small island of Panglao is your gateway to long stretches of white sandy beaches, coral reefs, turtles, dolphins and sometimes pilot whales!

Check into your hotel, ideally right on the beach, and relax, island-hop, snorkel, dive or swim!

Best Accommodation: Henann Resort

Budget Accommodation:  Mithi Resort and Spa

Day 7 and it is sadly time to depart. Fly out from Panglao’s new airport (known as Bohol International Airport) or from the longer-established Tagbilaran Airport near the Bohol port. Alternatively, catch a ferry back to Cebu and fly out from Cebu International Airport.

But, ideally extend your Philippines 7 day itinerary as there’s still much more to discover in this Asian paradise!

One Week In Philippines: Gorgeous Beaches And Local Culture In Boracay And Panay

Panay, the westernmost of the Visayan Islands, is surrounded by the Sibuyan, Visayan and Sulu seas. A rugged, almost unpopulated mountain range runs parallel to its western coast. Split into four provinces, Panay is famed for its empty beaches and unspoilt coastlines.

Antique, Capiz and Aklan are growing destinations, especially popular with backpackers or those happy to travel a little further to discover idyllic beaches. The exception to the rule is Boracay, located just off northern Panay, one of the best-known and more heavily developed beach resort areas in the country. Famed for amazing sunsets – breathtaking day-after-day – and a long uninterrupted stretch of beach, Boracay offers great watersports, sunset cruises and possibly the widest selection of cuisines in the Philippines!

Day 1-3 – Roxas City

Fly into Roxas City, the capital of Capiz province on Panay. This low-key city is known as the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines”, with fresh sea-to-table offerings. Check into your hotel, ideally at the beach, and relax… and eat… for two days!

If feeling active, visit the ancestral house of Capiz’ famed son – Manuel Acuna Roxas, the last President of the Commonwealth and the 1st President of the Philippines. Roxas Cathedral, the centre of the city, is a beautiful stone church dating from 1876 and there are some pretty bridges and fountains to also discover around the city. And don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs as this is the home of the locally-crafted Capiz shell, with many products sold around the city.

On day 3, to reach Boracay, catch a bus to Caticlan (possibly changing in Kalibo) and then hop on the next boat for the easy 10 minute crossing to Boracay. …and let the fun begin!

Best Accommodation: Espacio Verde Resort

Budget Accommodation : Pete’s inn

Day 4-7 – Boracay

Almost all the hotels open onto the splendid long beach of Boracay, that stretches as far as the eye can see. With hundreds of palm trees reaching practically down to the shore, it’s not surprising this beach is regularly mentioned as one of the world’s best.

Spend your days swimming, trying your hand at SUP or riding fun water-bikes. Head out just before sunset on a spectacular Paraw sail, good for 1-3 people. A small canoe-type boat with beautiful sails, these make for amazing sunset shots for those left behind on the beach as tens or hundreds set off altogether!

Dine at an almost unimaginable amount of restaurants for one small island! Thai, Chinese, European, fast-food and local restaurants keep you more than sustained. And, though not as busy as years gone by, you’ll find along the beach some lively bars for after dinner drinks and a sprinkling of nightclubs.

With some of the best accommodation in the country, wonderful beachside family hotels with pools and endless backpacker options, Boracay has something for everyone and all budgets.

Best Accommodation: Movenpick Resort & Spa Boracay

Budget Accommodation: Fat Jimmy’s Hotel Boracay

You can also find our full guide to where to stay in Boracay here.

Have fun before you start the long journey home!

This ends your 1 week itinerary Philippines, Panay and Boracay, but stay longer and check out another of our travel itinerary for Philippines.

Philippines Itinerary 5 Days Suggestions (And Other Lengths Of Time)

If you have less time to stay in the Philippines, you can easily shorten our suggested itineraries to 5 days. For Luzon, drop Sagada and travel directly from Banaue to Manila. In Palawan, follow our recommendations for Puerto Princesa and El Nido, departing on Day 5 from El Nido – removing Coron from the week’s itinerary.

A 5 day itinerary Philippines for Bohol and Cebu is possible by heading over to Bohol on Day 2 and moving on to Panglao on Day 4. For Panay (Roxas City and Boracay) simply reduce one day at both destinations.

All the itineraries can be adjusted to fit your length of stay, whether you have 3 days in Philippines or 6 days in Philippines. Even a Philippines 4 days itinerary is possible. Just remove the day(s) that sound least interesting or involve the longer travel, sticking to one or two places that are the most easily reachable.

It’s impossible to see everything in the Philippines in a week! So, if you have more than 7 days, check out our article here on the best 10 day itineraries.

Final Words

The Philippines hums to the sound of crowing chickens, the constant purr of motorbikes, the wind in the palm trees and the waves lapping on the beach, with karaoke songs and music constantly drifting on the warm evening air. And everywhere you go, you’re surrounded by smiling, happy Filipinos …ensuring you can’t help but smile too!

Without a doubt, whichever 7 days itinerary in Philippines you select, your days will be filled with stunning scenery and unique activities, ensuring a lifetime of memories.

We hope you found this itinerary Philippines 1 week options useful! Another beautiful island to spend a week is Bantayan Island, you can find out more about it here . You can also find all our guides to planning your Philippines adventure here or check out our  three week itinerary here  and  10 day itinerary here.

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By Sarah Gibson

Sarah first fell in love with the Philippines back in 2013 when she spent her son's first birthday on the beach in Boracay. Since then, she has visited many times and loves sharing her love of the Philippines here so you can enjoy it too. Sarah also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies and a Certificate III in International Travel Sales. Sarah especially loves island hopping through the Philippines - it's so gorgeous and easy. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to the Philippines!

A Two-Week Travel Itinerary to the Philippines

With an archipelago made up of over 7,000 rich, beautiful, and culturally diverse islands, years would still not seem long enough to embrace everything the Philippines has to offer. But if two weeks is all you have to spend in the islands of the Philippines, use our guide to seeing and doing the most of the country as possible.

Day 1: manila.

Most international flights land at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila . Fair warning: metro Manila is perhaps the busiest place in the country, so don’t be scared by the excessive traffic and urban jungle chaos—it won’t be quite like this anywhere else. Traffic in Manila is bad . Convenient modes of public transport connecting NAIA to the rest of the metro aren’t especially common either, so the best bet is taking an airport taxi to your accommodation . If after checking in, set some time aside for a meal. Filipinos love to eat, and Manila is crawling with fantastic restaurants of every cuisine and flavor —there’s bound to find a culinary gem nearby.

From here, you can either spend a night at the resort and begin a northward journey (on bus or with a rented car) for the days to follow, or you can return to Manila and use this as a base point, leaving from here and returning at the end of each day. The latter option, however, is more tiring and more time consuming as the proceeding days conveniently follow and northward route.

There’s nothing quite like beginning a trip to a foreign place with a dose of culture and history, especially if it comes with a shot of humor, too. Spend the first full day in the country learning about its past—right in the heart of Old Manila, the walled city of Intramuros. Plan ahead and book a walking tour with performance artist and guide Carlos Celdran, whose acclaimed tours consistently enlighten and entertain.

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For some art and culture, go to the nearby National Museum of the Philippines , displaying the masterpieces of the country’s best artists . For Filipino history and artifact exhibits, travel just a bit further to the Ayala Museum in the business district of Makati. While here, stroll around Greenbelt Mall and enjoy a nice dinner at one of its many delicious restaurants.

Day 3: Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

To recover from jet lag or simply deal with the scorching Philippines heat, save the more physically demanding activities for the days to come. On the third day, leave Manila and travel about three hours to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan. This heritage resort is a relaxing staycation and a fascinating history lesson rolled into one: tour the massive grounds filled with restored heritage houses from 18th-century Philippines, and have the choice of actually spending a night in them to earn about the Philippines’ rich and interesting history in a uniquely fascinating way. From here, either spend a night at the resort and begin a northward journey (by bus or rental car) for the coming days, or return to Manila.

Day 4: Mount Pinatubo

Ready up for something more adventurous—how does hiking up an active volcano sound? Infamous for its devastating eruption in 1991 (one of the 20th century’s most destructive), Mount Pinatubo is now a popular hiking destination. The trek is fairly easy, made special by rivers along the way, a 4×4 ride across lahar terrain (formed by the remnants of the 1991 eruption), and a beautiful turquoise crater lake at the end of the hike. The easiest way to go about this trip is by joining an organized tour group , where everything is already arranged from pick-up to drop-off.

Day 5–7: Baguio

Set off early in the morning to arrive in Baguio, the country’s “summer capital,” in time for lunch (six hours by bus, and four hours by car from Manila). The mountain city is visited by locals mostly for its temperate climate, and it’s a pleasant change from the otherwise blazing temperature most Filipinos are used to. Stop at the Ketchup Food Community and choose from among the five rustic food establishments serving up delicious hearty plates, perfect after a long morning on the road. After lunch, check-in at your chosen accommodation. A popular choice is The Manor at the massive grounds of iconic Camp John Hay , which also houses several of the city’s tourist favorites. Take the afternoon to trek its beautiful trails and visit the butterfly garden, the humorous Cemetery of Negativism, Bell House, and garden amphitheater. In the cool of the evening, tuck away into a cozy corner at Chocolate de Batirol and enjoy a cup of their famous hot chocolate, paired perfectly with a plate of sweet, sticky bibingka (rice cake).

Spend one full day enjoying all of the city’s most famous sites and activities. Start the day by picking strawberries in the fields of La Trinidad , approximately 20 minutes from the city center, and then drop by Mines View Park and Burnham Park , making sure to try the city’s unique strawberry taho at either stop. Have lunch and spend the afternoon at the BenCab Museum , where owner and national artist Benedict Cabrera shares his collection of highland Filipino artifacts as well as his and other local artists’ artworks. Heading back into the city center, stop by cool Mt. Cloud Bookshop , which carries an array of local and Asian literature. In the evening, head on over to Cafe by the Ruins for dinner, and end the night going through the night market at Harrison Road for cheap and unique finds.

On your last day in the city, make sure to take a taste of Baguio back and stop by the Baguio Public Market to stock up on the city’s and its neighbors’ delicious local products. Souvenirs for friends and family can also be found here. To pack in a bit more sightseeing, squeeze in a morning trip to the Tam-Awan Village or the Botanical Garden , and then fuel up at Hill Station for lunch before the long drive back to Manila. Still have some energy upon returning in Manila? Then leisurely explore the open-air Bonifacio High Street in Taguig City in search of a restaurant for dinner.

Day 8–9: Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan , 2017 Travel + Leisure magazine’s “Best Island in the World” title holder. The island is most famous for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters in the areas of El Nido and Coron, which are what many people from all over the world come to the Philippines to experience. Unfortunately, the limits of a two-week itinerary mean Coron will have to be saved for another trip, though visiting both El Nido and Coron is an absolute must. If arriving at Puerto Princesa in the morning, have lunch at Haim Chicken Inato for the local favorite grilled chicken and visit the city Butterfly Garden . If arriving late in the afternoon, settle into your accommodation and head to the Iwahig River at sundown for the Iwahig Firefly Watching Tour . If there’s time to spare for a late dinner, enjoy deliciously prepared seafood and vegetable dishes at Kalui, one of—if not the —most popular restaurants among visitors.

Leave the city center for a day and head to the coastal village of Sabang to the Puerto Princesa Underground River , one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. A guided day tour of the Underground River can be booked in Puerto Princesa. If you end up with time to spare and are up for more adventures, request to visit nearby Ugong Rock for some spelunking and zip-lining.

Days 10–13: El Nido, Palawan

Now, for the highlight of the Palawan trip: the paradise of El Nido . The most convenient way to reach El Nido is by booking a van seat with a shuttle bus company, some of which organize pickups directly from the hotel, and the trip takes five to six hours. An easy, favorite accommodation for younger travelers is Spin Designer Hostel . Divide the three days in El Nido by how active you feel and how much you want to do each day. For starters, most tour agencies and boatmen offer four main, predetermined island hopping tours —A, B, C, and D, with the most popular ones being tours A and C—which journey through gorgeous beaches and islands, caves, and clear blue lagoons. Aside from these tours, other great beaches that can be reached from the El Nido town proper via rented motorbike or tricycle. Relax on Nacpan Beach and watch the sunset from either Las Cabanas Beach or Marimegmeg Beach. Then head back to the town proper and enjoy nights bar hopping and enjoying cool reggae music seaside. On your final day, fly straight from El Nido to Manila to avoid the hassle of having to go all the way back to Puerto Princesa for the flight.

Day 14: Manila (last day)

When leaving the hotel for the airport, consider Manila’s congested roads and the slow moving lines at the airport. Depending on the time of day and the distance between the hotel and NAIA, it would be wise to set off anywhere from four to five hours before the flight’s departure. If the flight isn’t depart until late in the evening, squeeze in an early morning trip to picturesque Tagaytay, a two-hour drive away, and dine at Breakfast at Antonio’s . The food is good and the view is lovely—a perfect way to spend your last day in the country. To stay close to Manila, go on a last-minute shopping trip instead. There are several shopping malls to choose from in Manila, some of which are among the biggest in the world. The extensive chain of SM malls have an in-house brand called Kultura, and it’s the perfect place to shop for gifts to bring back home for family and friends.

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Sample cebu itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6 days tour or more + tourist spots to visit this 2024.

Sample Cebu Itineraries 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour 2024

3D/2N: Sample Cebu Itinerary (3 Days and 2 Nights)

Day 1: arrival + cebu city tour part 1.

• Arrival at Cebu-Mactan International Airport (MCIA)
• Travel from MCIA to Cebu City - BOOK AIRPORT TRANSFER HERE!
• Check-in at the Hotel - SEE HOTELS & RESORTS IN CEBU HERE!
• Cebu City Downtown Tour
• Basilica del Sto. Niño
• Magellan's Cross
• Fort San Pedro
• Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
• Skywalk Experience Adventure, Edge Coaster and Tower Zip at Crown Regency Hotel & Towers - BOOK DISCOUNTED TICKETS HERE!
• Back at the hotel

DAY 2: SIRAO FLOWER GARDEN, TEMPLE OF LEAH AND MORE!

• Take a photo of Cebu Provincial Capitol
• Take a look at Rizal Memorial Library and Museum
• Visit Sergio Osmeña Museum
• Visit Cebu Taoist Temple
• Enjoy Sirao Flower Gardens, Sirao Peak or Celosia Flower Farm
• Visit Temple of Leah
• Shop for pasalubong and souvenirs at Tabo-an Market
• Chill and relax at Mango Square

DAY 3: CEBU CITY TOUR PART 2, MACTAN SHRINE + DEPARTURE

• Visit Heritage of Cebu Monument
• Explore Colon Street
• Visit the Jesuit House and the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House
• Hotel check-out
• Proceed to Mactan
• Explore Lapu-Lapu Monument and Magellan Shrine
• Go to Mactan-Cebu International Airport - BOOK AIRPORT TRANSFER HERE!

TRAVEL TIPS: For ease and convenience, you may avail a Private Cebu Half Day Tour or a Private Cebu & Mactan Twin City Tour in exploring Cebu. You may also avail a Sirao Garden and Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary Half Day Tour that covers a visit to Sirao Flower Farm.

4D/3N: Sample Cebu Itinerary (4 Days and 3 Nights)

Day 1: arrival + cebu rediscovery tour.

• CEBU REDISCOVERY TOUR (Afternoon tour) - BOOK HERE!
• 1:00pm - hotel pick up
• Plaza Sugbu
• Santo Nino Church
• Taoist Temple
• Magallanes St.
• South Road Properties
• Osmena Blvd
• Fuente Osmena Park
• Cebu Provincial Capitol
• Asiatown IT Park & Ayala Business Park
• 5:00pm - hotel drop off

DAY 2: MACTAN ISLAND HOPPING ADVENTURE

• If you're looking for a hassle-free and convenient Mactan Island Hopping Tour, I highly recommend that you book it with Klook for as low as ₱ 2,050 - BOOK HERE!

SAMPLE MACTAN ISLAND HOPPING ITINERARIES FROM KLOOK

• Island Hopping
• 07:50am - 09:15am - hotel pick up
• 09:15am - 09:40am - jump off point and quick briefing
• 09:40am - travel to Pandanon Island
• 10:30am - arrive at Pandanon Island for swimming, snorkeling, and beach lounging
• 12:00pm - lunch at beach hut
• 01:00pm - travel to Nalusuan Island
• 03:30pm - travel to Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary
• 4:30pm - hotel drop off
• Island - Hopping + Scuba Diving
• 10:30am - arrival at Pandanon Island for swimming, snorkeling, and beach lounging
• 01:00pm - travel to Nalusuan
• 01:30pm - scuba diving at Nalusuan diving site
• 04:30pm - hotel drop off
• Island Hopping + Parasailing
• 04:00pm - travel back to mainland and prepare for parasailing
• 04:30pm - 15 minutes parasailing ride
• 05:00pm - hotel drop off
• Island Hopping + Scuba Diving + Parasailing
• 09:15am - 9:40am - jump off point and quick briefing
• 01:30pm - Scuba diving at Nalusuan diving site
• Dinner at Larsian's

Another option for DAY 2 is Hilutungan, Nalusuan, and Caohagan Island Hopping Tour where you could enjoy a day of sun, idyllic white-sand beaches and beautiful blue ocean waters around Mactan Island.

• 08:45 am - meet up at Marigondon, Mactan Island
• Start of island hopping
• Hilutungan Marine Reserve
• Nalusuan Marine Sanctuary
• Caohagan Island
• Barbeque lunch on the boat
• Return to Marigondon, Mactan Island

DAY 3: SIRAO FLOWER GARDEN, TEMPLE OF LEAH AND MORE!

Travel tips: for ease and convenience, you may modify this day and book a join-in tour to sirao garden and jumalon butterfly sanctuary half day tour or add top of cebu private half day trip in your itinerary. if you're into food, you may also consider booking a cebu street half day food tour for a gastronomical adventure featuring the region's local delicacies., day 4: cebu city tour part 2, mactan shrine + departure.

5D/4N: Sample Cebu Itinerary (5 Days and 4 Nights)

• Check-in at the Hotel/Resort - SEE HOTELS & RESORTS IN CEBU HERE!
• CEBU REDISCOVERY TOUR (Afternoon tour) - RESERVE A SLOT HERE!
• Fuente Osmena Park Cebu Provincial Capitol
• If you're looking for a hassle-free and convenient Mactan Island Hopping Tour, I highly recommend that you book it with Klook for as low as ₱ 2,050 - CHECK AVAILABILITY AND BOOK HERE!

DAY 4: CAMOTES ISLAND ADVENTURE

• 06:30 - 07:00am - hotel pick-up
• Enjoy an exciting island getaway with a day tour of the beautiful Camotes Islands from Cebu
• Explore the mysterious and magical natural wonders like the caves, lake, and beaches of Camotes Islands
• Admire the shimmering blue waters of the sea as you indulge in a delicious authentic Filipino cuisine lunch
• Treat yourself to a day of relaxation, fun time in the water, and an unforgettable cliff diving experience during the trip

DAY 5: CEBU CITY TOUR PART 2, MACTAN SHRINE + DEPARTURE

6D/5N or MORE: Sample Cebu Itinerary (6 Days and 5 Nights or More)

Badian canyoneering adventure and kawasan waterfalls day tour, for private tours.

• 05:00 am - hotel pick up
• 07:30 am - arrival in Badian
• 08:00 am - breakfast (at your own expense)
• 08:30 am - start trekking and canyoneering
• 12:00 pm - lunch at Kawasan Falls
• 12:30 pm - swim at Kawasan Falls
• 02:00 pm return to Cebu City
• 04:00 pm hotel drop off

For Join-In Tours

• 05:00 am - for guests staying in Mactan Island: Pick up at 7-Eleven Island Central Mall
• 05:45 am - for guests staying in Cebu City: Pick up at 7-Eleven General Maxilom (near Burger King and Caltex Gas Station Mango)
• 09:00 am - arrival in Badian
• 10:00 am - start of trek and canyoneering
• 01:00 pm - lunch (at your own expense) in Kawasan Falls
• 01:30 pm - swimming at Kawasan Falls
• 02:00 pm - depart for Mactan Island or Cebu City
• 05:00 pm - end of tour, drop off at Mango Square (across 7-Eleven General Maxilom)
• 06:00 pm - end of tour, drop off at Mactan Marina Mall (across 7-Eleven Island Central Mall)

Pescador Island Hopping Private Tour

• 05:00 am - hotel pick up (for guests staying at hotels located within Cebu City, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu only)
• 09:30 am - arrive in Moalboal
• 10:00 am - boat ride to Pescador Island
• 10:30 am - snorkeling in sardine run and swimming with sea turtles
• 12:30 pm - lunch at your own expense
• 02:30 pm - return hotel
• 05:00 pm - hotel drop off
• Note: The itinerary and timings are subject to change without prior notice due to tide and weather conditions of the day. Your guide will reconfirm your schedule.

Moalboal and Pescador Island

• 05:00am - for guests staying on Mactan Island, pick up is at Shell Select (Pajo Gas Station)
• 05:45am - for guests staying in Cebu City, pick up is at McDonald's Fuente
• 09:00am - arrive in Moalboal
• 10:00am - boat ride to Pescador Island
• 10:30am - snorkeling at sardine run and swim with sea turtles
• 12:30pm - lunch (at your own expense)
• 02:00pm - depart for Mactan Island or Cebu City
• 05:00pm - end of tour, drop off at McDonald's Fuente
• 06:00pm - end of tour, drop off at Shell Select (Pajo Gas Station)

You may also visit Bohol on a day tour from Cebu! Here is the sample itinerary.

Sightsee bohol day tour from cebu.

• 07:00am - hotel pick up time
• 09:20am - ferry transfer to Tagbilaran
• 11:20am - arrive at Tagbilaran Port
• 11:45am - view famous Tarsiers
• 12:30pm - lunch at the Loboc river cruise
• 01:30pm - see the famous Chocolate Hills
• 02:30pm - sightsee at Bilar man-made forest, Butterfly Sanctuary
• 03:30pm - visit Baclayon Church & Museum and Blood Compact Monument
• 05:00pm - end of tour
• 05:30pm - return ferry back to Cebu
• 07:30pm - arrive back in Cebu, hotel drop off

AWESOME DEALS! Hotels and Resorts in Cebu (Discounted Stay Packages)

• Up to 65% Discount! - Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort (see rates here!) - Two-night Deluxe Room with breakfast, 15% discount on F&B, BlueCARES Sanitation Kit & welcome Bluewater coolers. Plus 20% discount on Amuma Spa & early check-in or late check-out (subject to availability).
• Up to 75% Discount! - bai Hotel Cebu (see rates here!) - Overnight or 2 Nights Stay with complimentary breakfast and PHP 500 or PHP 1000 Food Voucher.
• Up to 40% Discount! - Seda Ayala Center Cebu (see rates here!) - One-night stay in a Deluxe Room for 2 persons, inclusive of breakfast and/or PHP 500 worth of dining credits.
• Up to 60% Discount! - Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu (see rates here!) - Overnight Stay with Daily Breakfast for 2 persons and Exclusive Perks.
• Up to 40% Discount! - Mezzo Hotel (see rates here!) - One-night stay in a Deluxe Suite Room, Deluxe Room, Superior Room, Junior Suite, Premier Suite or Barkada Room with breakfast.
• Up to 30% Discount! - Seda Central Bloc Cebu (see rates here!) - One-night stay in a Deluxe Room for 2 persons, inclusive of breakfast and/or PHP 500 worth of dining credits.
• Up to 65% Discount! - Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort (see rates here!) - 2-night stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast, 15% discount on F&B, BlueCARES Sanitation Kit & welcome Bluewater coolers. Plus 20% discount on Amuma Spa & early check-in or late check-out (subject to availability).

There you have it! You can use these sample Cebu Itineraries in planning an amazing and memorable Cebu Adventure!

• Sample BORACAY Itineraries
• Sample BOHOL Itineraries
• Sample BACOLOD Itineraries
• Sample DUMAGUETE-SIQUIJOR Itineraries
• Sample SIARGAO Itineraries
• Sample CORON Itineraries
• Sample PUERTO PRINCESA Itineraries
• Sample EL NIDO Itineraries
• Sample LA UNION Itineraries

FOLLOW MY ADVENTURES ON YOUTUBE @PinoyAdventurista

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Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

I've traveled to 9 out of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes I made along the way.

• I've traveled solo to nine countries in Southeast Asia.
• I've made many mistakes, from traveling during monsoon season to forgetting to bring enough cash.
• Travelers should make sure they plan ahead and research each country's culture.

Over the last two years, my journey as a travel enthusiast and Business Insider's travel reporter in Singapore has brought me to almost every country in Southeast Asia.

In total, there are 10 countries in Southeast Asia , and I've traveled to nine of them — Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Myanmar remains the only country in the region I have not visited, and while I am keen to explore it, I have held off on visiting because of the country's ongoing civil war.

I've watched the sun rise in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and cared for elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I've explored the Bornean jungle in Brunei and crawled the Cu Chi Tunnels in southern Vietnam.

But it hasn't always been easy. I've made several mistakes traveling across the region , especially as a solo traveler. Here are five mistakes I made and how to avoid them.

1. Going during monsoon season and not planning for the weather.

In July, I traveled to Thailand on a reporting trip to cover the budding cannabis industry . There, I was met with heavy rain nearly every day. In Bangkok, I was staying in a hostel in Chakkrawat , a district with narrow, meandering streets, which made it difficult to walk anywhere in the pouring rain.

I didn't plan for the weather, so I didn't have an umbrella or poncho with me and had to rush to get one at the last minute. I also had a packed itinerary with a lot of travel between meetings, which was a hassle in the constant downpour.

Before traveling to Southeast Asia, make sure to avoid two seasons — the monsoon season, which often comes with strong typhoons in countries like the Philippines, and the burning season, where farmers burn land for fertile soil. This is a common occurrence in countries like Laos, Thailand, and the island of Borneo, which is shared between Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

When I traveled to Laos in April last year during the burning season , most of my plans — including a hot air balloon ride — were canceled because of the thick smog. I also didn't have an N95 mask with me, and I ended up with a sore throat.

If you do plan to come during these seasons, make sure to pack accordingly and plan a flexible schedule.

2. Traveling during Ramadan and expecting the same practices everywhere.

Having grown up in Singapore, I'm familiar with the practices during Ramadan , the holy month for Muslims, where they fast for most of the day. I studied Malay for seven years, and in school, I often fasted with my Muslim classmates and ate only in private.

Still, in many cities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia , non-Muslims are free to dine in public, so long as they do so respectfully. But on my trip to Brunei in April — at the height of the burning season and in the middle of Ramadan — there were more practices I needed to observe.

Most restaurants were closed, and diners weren't allowed to eat there even if they were open — only take-out was allowed. Eating in public was a major faux pas even for non-Muslims, and if you want to drink some water, you can only do so when nobody is around.

It wasn't easy, especially as Brunei was sweltering at 100 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. I made do by returning to the hotel for lunch and grabbing a big dinner with the locals at the night market after they had broken their fast.

3. Not packing enough modest outfits when visiting temples and mosques.

Southeast Asia is pretty liberal, and you can wear whatever you want in many places. In popular destinations like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia, lots of tourists walk around in bikini tops and shorts, and locals mostly tolerate it.

But there are certain places you do need to cover up, like places of worship, which include temples and mosques. When I visited Angkor Wat — the famed temple complex in Cambodia — in February last year, I found some tourists being told off by the local tour guides for wearing shorts and tank tops — "Tomb Raider" style.

I've learned to err on the right side of caution and bring a sarong wherever I go. It's an easy way to cover up and make an outfit more modest when you need to.

4. Forgetting to pack medication, especially when I plan to eat street food.

Southeast Asia has some of the world's most flavorful food. In every country, you can find food that is cheap and delicious, and that includes Singapore , the world's most expensive city. In countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, street food dishes can cost as little as a dollar.

I eat mostly street food when I travel in Southeast Asia, so medicine for tummy-related illnesses is a must. I've only gotten sick twice from eating street food — and it was the same dish both times— and unfortunately, those were the few times I didn't have medicine with me.

I'm a pretty adventurous eater. I've eaten everything from pufferfish stew to frog porridge and dishes made with intestines off the street. I've learned to wash the utensils provided before digging in and make sure the food is cooked to order and heated up before being served.

5. Relying on my card and not bringing enough cash with me.

In Singapore, I don't really use cash and often use Apple Pay, mobile payments, and cards. But I've found that many stores in other countries in Southeast Asia only accept cash.

For example, on my third trip to Vietnam, I spent an hour trying to make payment via bank transfer after the staff at a luxury perfume shop — which was selling items priced upwards of $200 — informed me at the last minute that they didn't accept card or contactless payment.

I've also found the majority of street vendors in the region only accept mobile payment — which is limited to local banks — or cash. I've learned to change a considerable amount of money before leaving the airport and keep whatever I didn't use for my next trip.

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