Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Philippines

Discover Philippines

Discover Philippines

Why visit Philippines?
The Philippines offers tropical islands, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, with a mix of Spanish, American, and Asian influences. You will find lively festivals, historic sites, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

What to expect
From the capital Manila to the island hubs of Cebu, Bohol, and Palawan, each region has its own pace and scenery. You can combine heritage walks with white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and mountain landscapes.

Plan your trip
Many travellers pair Manila and Cebu with side trips to nearby islands, using domestic flights and ferries. The Philippines also works well as part of a wider Southeast Asia journey, with Singapore as a convenient connecting gateway.

Top experiences in Philippines

Explore historic Intramuros in Manila

Walk the old walls, plazas, and stone churches of Intramuros to glimpse Manila's colonial-era past.

Island-hopping from Cebu

Use Cebu as a base for day trips to nearby islands with clear waters, waterfalls, and snorkelling spots.

Relax on Palawan's beaches

Head to Palawan for limestone cliffs, quiet coves, and island-hopping among turquoise lagoons.

Discover Bohol's natural wonders

See the Chocolate Hills, meet tarsiers, and enjoy countryside bike or river trips in Bohol.

Shop and dine in modern Manila districts

Spend evenings in commercial hubs with malls, cafés, and restaurants ranging from casual to refined.

Dive and snorkel vibrant reefs

Join guided trips from popular coastal towns to explore colourful reefs and marine life.

Enjoy city viewpoints at sunset

Take in skyline and bay views from rooftop spots in Manila or hillside lookouts in Cebu.

Experience Philippines's way of life

Getting around
Domestic flights link Manila, Cebu, and many island gateways, helping you cover longer distances quickly. Within regions, buses, vans, and ferries connect towns, while taxis and ride-hailing services are common in major cities.

Local life & culture
Daily life often centres on family, neighbourhood gatherings, and community fiestas. You will notice a mix of historic churches, modern skylines, and lively street scenes with music, street art, and local sports.

Where to unwind
You can unwind on palm-fringed beaches, quiet coastal resorts, or cool mountain towns away from the heat. Many islands also offer gentle hikes, river cruises, and simple seaside stays where you can slow your pace.

A taste of Philippines

National dishes & specialties
Across the Philippines you will find hearty dishes such as adobo, grilled meats, and slow-cooked stews. Coastal regions like Cebu are known for roast meats and fresh seafood, while many islands offer rich, coconut-based dishes.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila and Cebu, you can eat at simple roadside eateries, food courts, and contemporary cafés in the same day. International options sit alongside local comfort food, giving you plenty of choice for quick meals or leisurely dinners.

Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop restaurants, bayside venues, and hilltop cafés offer city and sea views with your meal. On the islands, beachfront dining lets you enjoy the sound of the waves while you eat freshly prepared dishes.

Retail therapy in Philippines

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu feature large malls and lifestyle centres with international labels, local brands, cinemas, and dining. These complexes are convenient places to combine shopping with entertainment and services.

Markets & local crafts
You can browse markets and smaller shops for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs in cities such as Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Island towns often showcase woven items, carvings, and local specialties made by nearby communities.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and mall districts stay lively with illuminated storefronts and late-opening eateries. Seasonal bazaars and night markets pop up in urban areas, adding to the relaxed evening atmosphere.

Best time to visit Philippines

Dry peak season (peak season): From December to April, much of the Philippines is drier, with temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F), ideal for beaches and island-hopping.

Transition shoulder months (shoulder season): May, November, and parts of June bring warmer days around 26–33°C (79–91°F), with some showers but generally good conditions for travel.

Rainy low season (low season): From June to October, expect more frequent rain and higher humidity, with temperatures around 24–31°C (75–88°F), especially in coastal and lowland areas.

Frequently Asked Questions