The Philippines offers tropical islands, clear waters, and warm hospitality across more than 7,000 islands. You can enjoy beaches, diving, heritage towns, and lively modern cities in one trip.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
From the busy streets of Manila to the relaxed shores of Cebu and island destinations like Palawan and Boracay, each region has its own pace and character. English is widely spoken, and you will find a mix of Asian, Spanish, and contemporary influences everywhere.
Plan your trip
Most journeys start in Manila or Cebu, with onward flights and ferries linking you to the wider archipelago. The Philippines is also a convenient base to explore the rest of Southeast Asia with well-connected regional routes.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore Intramuros in Manila
Walk the historic walled city of Intramuros, where cobbled streets, old fortifications, and restored houses reveal centuries of Manila history.
Island-hopping in Cebu and beyond
Use Cebu as a gateway for island-hopping, from white-sand beaches and coral reefs to waterfalls and quiet coastal towns.
Beach escapes in Palawan
Sail past dramatic limestone cliffs, lagoons, and secluded coves around El Nido and Coron in Palawan.
Diving and snorkelling adventures
Discover colourful reefs and marine life at dive spots around Visayas and Mindanao, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
City life in Metro Manila
Experience contemporary Manila with its shopping districts, creative neighbourhoods, galleries, and evolving skyline.
Mountain and rice terrace landscapes
Head north to see dramatic highland scenery, where centuries-old rice terraces and cool mountain towns offer a different side of the Philippines.
Festivals and local celebrations
Time your visit with a local festival to see colourful parades, street performances, and community traditions in full swing.
Experience Philippines way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Manila and Cebu to key islands such as Palawan, Bohol, and Davao, while ferries and fast boats connect nearby islands. Within cities, you can use taxis, ride-hailing services, buses, and jeepneys, and on smaller islands tricycles and motorbikes are common.
Local life & culture
Daily life blends modern city living with close family ties and community spirit, often centred around neighbourhood plazas and seaside promenades. You will notice music, language, and architecture shaped by indigenous roots, Spanish-era heritage, and global influences.
Where to unwind
Relax on palm-fringed beaches, schedule a spa treatment at a resort, or watch the sunset from a coastal viewpoint. In the highlands, cooler mountain towns and nature parks offer peaceful hikes, viewpoints, and fresh air.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Try favourites such as adobo, crispy pork dishes, grilled seafood, and sour tamarind-based soups, which can vary in flavour from region to region. Manila and Cebu both offer a wide range of local classics alongside contemporary takes on Filipino cuisine.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Across Metro Manila and Cebu City you will find food courts, casual eateries, and modern cafés serving Filipino plates, pan-Asian dishes, and international comfort food. Neighbourhood dining areas gather many options in one place, making it easy to try different styles in a single evening.
Signature & scenic dining
Book a table at restaurants with skyline views, seaside terraces, or garden settings for a memorable meal. In island destinations, many resorts and beachside venues offer sunset dinners and open-air bars right by the water.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Metro Manila and Cebu City feature large shopping malls and lifestyle centres where you can find international labels, local brands, cinemas, and dining in one place. Many complexes are connected or clustered, so you can move easily between shops and entertainment.
Markets & local crafts
Seek out markets and smaller boutiques for handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs that reflect regional styles. Manila, Cebu, and island destinations such as Palawan and Bohol offer local products ranging from woven items to home décor and beachwear.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, malls often open late into the evening, with lively food areas and illuminated promenades. Some neighbourhoods also host night markets and pop-up stalls, combining shopping with music and casual street-side dining.
Best time to visit Philippines
The dry season, generally from December to May, is the peak season, with many regions seeing daytime temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F) and lower rainfall, ideal for beach and island trips. The shoulder season often falls around November and early June, when you can expect warm temperatures of about 26–31°C (79–88°F) with a chance of short showers but fewer crowds. The wet season, usually from June to October, is the low season, bringing more frequent rain, especially in the afternoon and evening, with temperatures around 25–30°C (77–86°F). Conditions can vary by region, so always check local forecasts before you travel.