The Philippines is a tropical archipelago of over 7,000 islands, known for white-sand beaches, clear seas, and warm hospitality. You can explore vibrant cities, quiet islands, and lush mountains on one trip.
Discover the Philippines
Discover the Philippines
Why visit the Philippines?
What to expect
From the buzz of Manila to the laid-back charm of Cebu and nearby islands, you will find historic districts, coral reefs, and jungle-clad hills. English is widely spoken, making it easy to get around and connect with locals.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as gateways to explore surrounding islands and regions, each with its own beaches and adventures. The Philippines also connects you conveniently to the wider Southeast Asian region.
Top experiences in the Philippines
Explore Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's old walled city, and discover colonial-era churches, fortifications, and museums.
Island hopping from Cebu
Use Cebu as a base for island-hopping to nearby spots such as Mactan, Bohol, and other Visayan islands with coral reefs and beaches.
Discover Manila Bay and its skyline
Stroll along Manila Bay at sunset to see the water glow gold and the city skyline light up, with parks and promenades lining the shore.
Visit heritage churches and plazas
Admire historic churches and town plazas in Manila and Cebu, where architecture reflects centuries of cultural influences.
Go snorkelling and diving
Head from Cebu to nearby islands for snorkelling and diving among reefs, tropical fish, and rich marine life.
Enjoy city nightlife and live music
Experience lively nightlife districts in Manila and Cebu with live music, rooftop venues, and cosy neighbourhood bars.
Relax on urban beaches near Cebu
Unwind at resort beaches close to Cebu City, where you can swim, kayak, or simply relax by the sea between city explorations.
Experience the Philippines way of life
Getting around
For longer distances, domestic flights link Manila, Cebu, and other major islands efficiently. Within cities, you can use taxis, ride-hailing apps, buses, and local jeepneys, while ferries connect nearby islands in the same region.
Local life & culture
Life in the Philippines is social and community-focused, with festivals, music, and family gatherings part of the daily rhythm. You will notice a blend of Asian and Spanish influences in language, architecture, and everyday customs.
Where to unwind
Unwind on city seafronts, nearby island beaches, or in hilltop viewpoints around Cebu and Luzon. Many resorts and wellness retreats offer spas, pools, and quiet gardens where you can rest after exploring busy streets.
A taste of the Philippines
National dishes & specialties
You can try Filipino favourites such as adobo, lechon, and sinigang in Manila and Cebu, where traditional eateries and family-run spots serve hearty meals that reflect local flavours and ingredients.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Both Manila and Cebu offer malls and lifestyle districts filled with casual diners, cafés, and international restaurants, giving you everything from quick local snacks to fusion menus in one convenient area.
Signature & scenic dining
In the major cities, you can dine at rooftop spots with skyline views, seaside restaurants along the bay or waterfront, and elegant venues that pair Philippine flavours with contemporary presentation.
Retail therapy in the Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu are known for large shopping malls and lifestyle centres, where you will find international brands, local designers, cinemas, and family attractions under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Browse city markets and smaller shops in Manila and Cebu for handmade crafts, souvenirs, and regional products, from woven goods to decorative items made across the islands.
Evening retail scene
After dark, many malls stay open late and shopping streets remain lively, with illuminated façades, cafés, and entertainment making evenings a relaxed time to stroll and shop.
Best time to visit the Philippines
Dry season (peak season): From December to April, most regions enjoy dry, sunny weather, ideal for beaches and island-hopping, with typical temperatures around 26–32°C (79–90°F). Wet season (shoulder season): From May to early October, expect higher humidity, frequent afternoon showers, and occasional storms, with temperatures about 27–32°C (81–90°F); travel is still possible with flexible plans. Transitional months (low season): Late October to November can bring mixed conditions with lingering rains and fewer crowds, with temperatures near 26–31°C (79–88°F).