The Philippines offers tropical islands, warm hospitality, and a relaxed pace of life. You will find buzzing cities, white-sand beaches, and lush mountain landscapes across more than 7,000 islands.
Discover the Philippines
Discover the Philippines
Why visit the Philippines?
What to expect
From the energy of Manila to the laid-back charm of Cebu and the Visayas, the Philippines blends modern malls, historic quarters, and island adventures. Expect a mix of English and local languages, lively music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as gateways to explore the wider archipelago, with onward flights and ferries to many islands. Plan extra days for domestic connections, beach escapes, and side trips into the mountains and reefs.
Top experiences in the Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's walled colonial district, where you will find centuries-old stone churches, ramparts, and leafy plazas.
Island-hop around Cebu and the Visayas
Use Cebu as a base for island-hopping to nearby beaches and sandbars, snorkelling with vibrant marine life, and discovering hidden coves.
Relax on white-sand beaches
Unwind on wide stretches of white sand, calm turquoise waters, and palm-fringed shores dotted with simple cafés and small resorts.
Snorkel and dive among coral reefs
Join guided trips to reefs known for colourful coral gardens, sea turtles, and schooling fish, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
Enjoy Manila's urban energy
Spend time in modern districts with high-rise skylines, art galleries, rooftop bars, and busy parks that come alive in the evenings.
Chase waterfalls and mountain views
Head inland from Cebu or other regional hubs to swim beneath cool waterfalls and hike to lookouts with wide views across forested hills.
Discover local festivals
Time your trip for colourful city and island festivals, where you can see street parades, costumes, and performances that showcase local pride.
Experience the Philippines's way of life
Getting around
For longer distances, domestic flights link Manila and Cebu to major islands, while buses and ferries connect regional hubs. Within cities, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and local jeepneys are common options for short journeys.
Local life & culture
Daily life in the Philippines blends modern city living with strong community ties, music, and family gatherings. You will notice a mix of local and international influences in architecture, language, and arts across different regions.
Where to unwind
Across the country you will find coastal resorts, quiet island hideaways, and mountain retreats ideal for slowing down. Many areas offer simple spas, beachfront massages, and calm spots to watch the sunrise or sunset.
A taste of the Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Classics such as adobo stews, grilled meats, and hearty soups are widely enjoyed, with each region adding its own twist. Coastal areas are known for fresh seafood dishes and simple, flavourful cooking.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila and Cebu you will find shopping centres and lifestyle districts filled with casual eateries, cafés, and international restaurants. Food courts and neighbourhood spots make it easy to sample local flavours in a relaxed setting.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for rooftop venues in Manila's business districts, seaside restaurants along the coast, and resort dining that faces the beach. Many places pair open-air settings with views over city skylines or the water.
Retail therapy in the Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu host large shopping centres with international brands, cinemas, supermarkets, and lifestyle zones. These complexes often combine retail, dining, and entertainment under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
In Manila, Cebu, and regional towns, markets and small shops sell handicrafts, woven items, and souvenirs that reflect local traditions. Coastal and rural areas are also good places to find handmade goods.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, malls stay lively into the evening, with illuminated façades and busy dining areas. Night markets and street stalls in some districts create a relaxed setting for browsing and people-watching after dark.
Best time to visit the Philippines
The dry peak season typically runs from December to April, with temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F), clearer skies, and calmer seas in many regions (peak season). The shoulder season spans May to early June and November, with warmer days around 26–33°C (79–91°F), a mix of sunshine and short showers, and fewer crowds in some areas (shoulder season). The wetter months usually fall from June to October, when temperatures stay around 24–31°C (75–88°F) and you can expect higher humidity and more frequent rain, especially in the afternoons (low season).