The Philippines welcomes you with tropical islands, clear waters, and warm hospitality. You can explore energetic cities, historic towns, and some of Southeast Asia's most beautiful beaches 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 shores of Cebu and surrounding islands, you can combine city life, heritage sites, and island-hopping. Expect lively festivals, friendly locals, and a relaxed coastal pace almost everywhere you go.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as gateways to the country’s many islands, from Luzon in the north to the Visayas and Mindanao in the south. The Philippines also pairs easily with wider Southeast Asian journeys via Singapore.
Top experiences in the Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of the old walled city, visit centuries-old forts and churches, and learn about Manila’s layered colonial past.
Island-hop from Cebu
Use Cebu as a base for boat trips to nearby islands, snorkelling spots, and white-sand beaches with turquoise waters.
Discover Manila’s bayside skyline
Stroll along Manila Bay at sunset for sweeping sea views, city lights, and a mix of modern malls and waterfront promenades.
Visit Cebu’s hilltop viewpoints
Head up into the hills above Cebu City for panoramic views, cool breezes, and photo-friendly gardens and lookouts.
Dive and snorkel colourful reefs
Experience the Philippines’ marine life on guided trips from Cebu and other nearby islands, with coral gardens and abundant tropical fish.
Shop and dine in major city malls
Spend time in Manila and Cebu’s large malls, where you can combine retail, dining, and entertainment under one roof.
Join a day trip to nearby waterfalls
From Cebu, take excursions inland to swim beneath forest-framed waterfalls and enjoy a different side of island life.
Experience the Philippines’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights and ferries link Manila, Cebu, and the surrounding islands, making it easy to combine several regions in one itinerary. Within the cities, you can use taxis, ride-hailing apps, and local transport for shorter journeys.
Local life & culture
Life in the Philippines revolves around family, community, and vibrant street life, with plazas, seafront promenades, and lively neighbourhoods. You will notice a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and modern influences in architecture, language, and everyday customs.
Where to unwind
Relax on palm-fringed beaches near Cebu, enjoy bayside walks in Manila, or retreat to hillside resorts with cooler air and scenic views. Across the islands, you will find many quiet coves, coastal walks, and spa hotels for unhurried downtime.
A taste of the Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Look out for classic dishes such as adobo, lechon, and sinigang, each interpreted slightly differently across the islands. Manila and Cebu are excellent places to try these favourites alongside fresh seafood and regional specialities.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila and Cebu you will find casual eateries, cafés, and modern restaurants serving local fare, Asian favourites, and international flavours. Food courts in major malls make it easy to sample a wide variety in one stop.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy rooftop restaurants with skyline views in Manila or waterside venues in Cebu overlooking the sea. Many island resorts also offer open-air dining on the sand or by the pool for atmospheric evenings.
Retail therapy in the Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is known for its vast shopping centres, where you can browse international labels, local brands, and lifestyle stores in air-conditioned comfort. Cebu also offers modern malls that combine retail, dining, and family entertainment.
Markets & local crafts
Seek out markets and craft shops in Manila and Cebu for handmade accessories, homeware, and island-inspired souvenirs. Smaller towns and islands often have local stalls selling woven goods, shell crafts, and regional products.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and malls in Manila and Cebu stay lively, with bright lights, music, and late-opening stores. You can pair evening shopping with relaxed dinners and entertainment in the same districts.
Best time to visit the Philippines
The dry peak season runs roughly from December to April (peak season), with warm days around 25–32°C (77–90°F), ideal for beach and island trips. The shoulder season from May to early June (shoulder season) is hotter at 27–34°C (81–93°F), with increasing humidity and occasional showers but fewer crowds. The wetter months from June to November (low season) bring more frequent rain and storms, with temperatures around 24–31°C (75–88°F), yet you can still enjoy city breaks and quieter resorts between downpours.