Philippines offers pristine islands, lively cities, and warm hospitality across more than 7,000 islands. You can explore vibrant marine life, historic neighbourhoods, and a distinctive mix of Asian and Spanish heritage.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
Expect a blend of buzzing urban energy in Manila and Cebu, relaxed beach towns, and remote islands framed by turquoise seas. Journeys often combine city stays with island-hopping, snorkelling, and visits to rice terraces or volcanic landscapes.
Plan your trip
Most trips begin in Manila or Cebu, where you connect to domestic flights and ferries that reach the islands. Philippines is also a convenient gateway to wider Southeast Asia, with good links to Singapore and other regional hubs.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's historic walled district, and discover colonial-era architecture, leafy plazas, and riverside views.
Island-hopping in Cebu and beyond
Use Cebu as a base for day trips to nearby islands with white-sand beaches, coral gardens, and clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Chase waterfalls in the Visayas
Visit waterfalls near Cebu and neighbouring islands, where jungle trails lead to turquoise pools perfect for a refreshing dip.
Discover Manila's modern skyline
Head to Manila's contemporary business districts for gleaming malls, rooftop bars, and city views that come alive after dark.
Snorkel thriving coral reefs
Join guided trips from coastal towns to reefs where you can spot colourful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life in warm tropical waters.
Soak up sunsets on the bay
End your day along Manila Bay or island beachfronts, where vivid sunsets turn the sky shades of orange and pink.
Visit scenic highland retreats
Escape the heat in cooler highland areas, known for mountain views, pine trees, and farms producing fresh local fruit and vegetables.
Join a day trip to heritage towns
Take guided excursions from major cities to heritage towns that showcase preserved architecture, ancestral homes, and small museums.
Experience Philippines's way of life
Getting around
To cover longer distances in Philippines, domestic flights from Manila and Cebu connect you quickly to major islands. Within cities and towns, you can combine taxis or ride-hailing services with local transport such as jeepneys, buses, and tricycles, while island destinations often rely on boats and ferries.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Philippines moves to a relaxed, sociable rhythm, with strong family ties and frequent community gatherings. You will notice a blend of Filipino, Spanish, and American influences in language, architecture, and festivals, and English is widely spoken in cities.
Where to unwind
You can relax on palm-fringed beaches, book spa treatments in city hotels, or retreat to quieter coastal resorts and mountain lodges. Many islands offer sunset cruises, yoga sessions, and gentle hikes, giving you space to reset between busy sightseeing days.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Philippines is known for hearty dishes such as adobo, lechon, and sinigang, enjoyed from Manila to Cebu with regional twists. Coastal regions serve an abundance of fresh seafood, while city food courts and local eateries showcase comforting noodle and rice dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila and Cebu you will find casual food halls, cafés, and neighbourhood restaurants serving Filipino classics alongside Asian and Western favourites. Shopping districts and business areas are packed with options for quick bites, family meals, and relaxed meet-ups with friends.
Signature & scenic dining
You can dine with skyline views at rooftop venues in Manila, enjoy waterfront restaurants along the bay, or choose resort dining by the beach in island destinations. Many upscale hotels also offer refined takes on Filipino flavours in contemporary settings.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu feature large malls and lifestyle centres that bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and entertainment. These complexes are popular spots to shop, dine, and escape the heat in air-conditioned comfort.
Markets & local crafts
Across Manila, Cebu, and other regional cities, markets and smaller boutiques sell handicrafts such as woven textiles, wood carvings, and shell accessories. Island destinations often have small stalls where you can pick up souvenirs and handmade keepsakes.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, many malls and shopping streets stay open into the evening, creating a lively atmosphere after sunset. Night markets and pop-up stalls sometimes appear around busy districts, combining shopping with street-side snacks and live music.
Best time to visit Philippines
Philippines has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry periods. Peak season runs from December to April, when conditions are generally drier and temperatures sit around 24–32°C (75–90°F), ideal for beach holidays and island-hopping. Shoulder season spans May to early June and November, with warmer temperatures of about 26–33°C (79–91°F) and a higher chance of showers, but fewer crowds. Low season falls from June to October, when the southwest monsoon brings heavier rain and occasional storms, with temperatures around 25–31°C (77–88°F); this can be a quieter time to visit if you remain flexible with travel plans.