The Philippines offers dazzling islands, friendly cities, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. You find a blend of tropical beaches, Spanish-era heritage, and lively modern culture across more than 7,000 islands.
Discover the Philippines
Discover the Philippines
Why visit the Philippines?
What to expect
From vibrant Manila to the relaxed rhythm of Cebu and nearby resort islands, you can move between buzzing city districts, historic churches, and palm-fringed shores. Expect warm hospitality, colourful festivals, and a strong sense of community everywhere you go.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as your gateways to explore Luzon, the Visayas, and beyond. With strong domestic flight and ferry networks, you can combine city stays with island-hopping, diving adventures, or cool mountain escapes in one journey.
Top experiences in the Philippines
Explore Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobblestone streets of Intramuros, Manila's historic walled district, and discover colonial-era fortifications, leafy plazas, and well-preserved stone houses.
Island-hop from Cebu
Base yourself in Cebu and take day trips to nearby islands with white-sand beaches, snorkelling spots, and clear turquoise waters rich with marine life.
Discover Manila Bay and sunset views
Stroll along Manila Bay or relax in nearby parks and bayside promenades as the sky turns vivid orange and pink at sunset.
Visit heritage towns near Cebu
Travel from Cebu City to surrounding towns with old stone churches, ancestral houses, and quiet coastal villages that reflect centuries of maritime trade.
Dive and snorkel in coral-rich waters
Head from Manila or Cebu to well-known dive areas where you can snorkel or dive among coral gardens, reef fish, and occasional sea turtles.
Shop and unwind in Manila's modern districts
Spend time in contemporary lifestyle hubs around Manila, where shopping centres, cafés, and green pockets offer a relaxing contrast to the busy streets.
Chase waterfalls in the Cebu region
Venture out from Cebu into the surrounding countryside to find waterfalls, jungle trails, and cool rivers ideal for a refreshing day trip.
Experience the Philippines way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Manila and Cebu with major islands, while ferries and fast boats connect nearby provinces. Within cities, you can use taxis, ride-hailing services, or iconic jeepneys and tricycles for short hops.
Local life & culture
Daily life mixes modern urban energy with strong family ties and neighbourhood spirit, visible in street gatherings, lively music, and colourful local celebrations. You often see Spanish, American, and indigenous influences side by side in architecture and language.
Where to unwind
Relax on quiet beaches near Manila and Cebu, escape to hilltop viewpoints, or choose resorts that focus on spa treatments and gentle sea breezes. Island stays often highlight slow mornings, long walks by the shore, and evenings under clear, starry skies.
A taste of the Philippines
National dishes & specialties
You find beloved favourites such as slow-braised stews, grilled meats, and sour-savory soups across Manila and Cebu, often served with rice and fresh local produce. Coastal areas highlight seafood that reflects the country’s long maritime history.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In both Manila and Cebu, you can eat at relaxed eateries, busy food halls, and contemporary cafés that serve both Filipino comfort food and international flavours. Neighbourhood dining areas often stay busy late into the evening.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy rooftop venues in Manila with wide city views, seaside restaurants in and around Cebu, or countryside retreats where meals are paired with mountain or ocean vistas for a memorable experience.
Retail therapy in the Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major shopping centres in Manila and Cebu bring together international labels, local designers, cinemas, and family-friendly attractions, often attached to dining streets and entertainment spaces.
Markets & local crafts
Seek out markets in Manila, Cebu, and nearby provincial towns for handmade crafts, woven textiles, shell accessories, and everyday souvenirs that reflect regional traditions.
Evening retail scene
In big cities, shopping districts stay active well into the evening, with bright-lit malls, pop-up stalls, and open-air areas where you can browse, snack, and people-watch after dark.
Best time to visit the Philippines
Dry season (peak season): Typically from December to May, with average temperatures of 25–32 °C (77–90 °F) and sunnier days that are ideal for island-hopping and beach activities. Wet season (shoulder season): Usually from June to October, with 24–31 °C (75–88 °F), higher humidity, and more frequent rain showers, but often fewer visitors and lush landscapes. Transition months (low season): Around November and late May to early June, with 25–31 °C (77–88 °F), offering a mix of clear days and occasional showers and a calmer atmosphere in many resort areas.