The Philippines offers emerald islands, warm seas, and lively cities, with a welcoming culture that makes you feel at home. You will find a mix of modern urban life and laid-back island charm.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
From bustling Manila to relaxed Cebu and the surrounding islands, you can move between history, shopping, and white-sand beaches in a single trip. Expect energetic streets, colourful festivals, and a love of music and gatherings.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as bases to explore nearby islands and regions by short domestic flights or ferries. The Philippines is also a convenient gateway to the wider Southeast Asian archipelago.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila is old walled district, and discover colonial-era architecture, museums, and leafy plazas.
Island-hop from Cebu
Use Cebu as a starting point for day trips to nearby islands, snorkelling sites, and quiet coves with clear water and soft sand.
Visit Manila is bayside promenades
Stroll along Manila Bay at sunset, where you can enjoy sea views, parks, and a relaxed atmosphere by the water.
Discover Cebu is city sights
Explore Cebu City is historic churches, hilltop viewpoints, and lively downtown streets before heading out to the coast.
Shop and dine in Manila is modern districts
Spend time in Manila is contemporary shopping and entertainment areas, where you can browse major malls and enjoy a wide range of places to eat.
Enjoy beach time near Cebu
Relax on beaches around Mactan and nearby islands, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and simple seaside escapes.
Experience Manila is art and culture
Visit galleries, theatres, and cultural spaces across the city to experience local creativity, music, and performance.
Take a day trip into the hills
Head from Cebu or Manila into surrounding highlands for cooler air, viewpoints, and countryside walks.
Experience Philippines is way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights connect major hubs such as Manila and Cebu with other islands, while ferries and inter-island boats help you reach smaller destinations. In cities, taxis, ride-hailing services, and local transport make it easy to move between districts.
Local life & culture
Daily life in the Philippines revolves around close family bonds, neighbourhood gatherings, and a strong sense of hospitality. You will notice a love of music, celebrations, and community events across both big cities and smaller towns.
Where to unwind
Unwind on sandy beaches near Manila and Cebu, or retreat to island resorts and quiet coves scattered across the archipelago. City parks and seaside promenades also offer calm spots for gentle walks and people-watching.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Enjoy hearty dishes such as adobo and grilled meats, along with rice-based meals and rich stews that vary from region to region. Manila and Cebu are ideal places to try classics and local favourites side by side.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Across Manila and Cebu you will find relaxed eateries, food courts, and modern restaurants serving local flavours alongside Asian and international cuisines. Many malls and business districts bring a wide range of choices together in one place.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for rooftop spots in Manila and Cebu with skyline or bay views, as well as seaside venues that pair ocean horizons with your meal. Some resorts and hotels also offer refined dining in intimate, scenic settings.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu are known for expansive shopping centres that combine international brands, local labels, cinemas, and leisure spaces. You can spend hours browsing, dining, and relaxing in the comfort of air-conditioned malls.
Markets & local crafts
Seek out city markets and smaller shops in Manila and Cebu for handicrafts, textiles, and handmade keepsakes. Regional stalls often showcase woven items, home décor, and simple souvenirs you can bring back home.
Evening retail scene
In the evening, malls in major cities stay lively, with bright lights and extended opening hours. Street-side stalls and neighbourhood shops also add to the atmosphere as locals gather to shop and stroll after dark.
Best time to visit Philippines
The dry peak season typically runs from December to April (peak season), with average temperatures around 26–32°C (79–90°F) and plenty of sunshine that suits beach trips and island-hopping. The shoulder months of May and November (shoulder season) can be warm and humid, around 27–33°C (81–91°F), with a mix of sun and short showers, offering fewer crowds. The rainy period usually falls from June to October (low season), when temperatures hover near 26–31°C (79–88°F) and heavier rain or storms are more frequent, though you can still enjoy city stays and quieter coastal escapes.