The Philippines offers a blend of tropical islands, historic cities, and warm hospitality. You can explore vibrant culture, coastal getaways, and lively urban life in one trip.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
From the energy of Manila to the beaches of Cebu and surrounding islands, you will find busy city streets, peaceful bays, and island-hopping adventures. English is widely spoken, making it easy to get around.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as gateways to explore nearby islands, diving spots, and heritage towns. With strong air and sea links between regions, you can combine city stays with relaxed beach breaks across the archipelago.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's old walled city, where Spanish-era forts, plazas, and museums reveal layers of the country's past.
Beach escapes around Cebu
Use Cebu as a base for island-hopping to sandy beaches, snorkelling spots, and coastal towns with clear water and laid-back seaside life.
Skyline views in Metro Manila
Head to rooftop spots and city viewpoints in Makati and Bonifacio Global City for sweeping skyline views, especially at sunset.
Island-hopping and marine adventures
Take boat trips from major ports to discover coral reefs, sandbars, and quiet coves ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and simple seaside lunches.
Museums and galleries in the capital
Visit museums and art spaces in Manila to learn about Filipino history, contemporary art, and the country's diverse cultural roots.
Urban parks and bayside walks
Stroll along bayside promenades and city parks for fresh air, local street performances, and views over the water in the early morning or late afternoon.
Festivals and local celebrations
Time your visit with local festivals to see colourful parades, traditional performances, and neighbourhood street parties.
Experience Philippines's way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Manila and Cebu with many regional hubs, while ferries connect nearby islands. Within cities, you can combine taxis, ride-hailing apps, and local transport for short journeys.
Local life & culture
Daily life in the Philippines moves between busy city centres and relaxed neighbourhoods where family and community are important. You will see a mix of modern malls, historic districts, and lively street corners filled with music and conversation.
Where to unwind
Unwind on palm-fringed beaches, coastal resorts, and island hideaways, or escape to quieter hill towns and countryside retreats. Urban parks and waterfront promenades in Manila and Cebu also offer calm spaces within the city.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Across Manila and Cebu you can try classic Filipino dishes such as grilled meats, noodle dishes, slow-cooked stews, and rich desserts, each with regional twists and family recipes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Food courts, cafés, and casual restaurants fill major malls and business districts, offering everything from local comfort food to Asian and Western favourites. Nighttime dining areas become lively social spots for groups of friends and families.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy bayside dinners with sunset views in Manila, or restaurants perched on hills and coastal cliffs near Cebu. Many upscale hotels and stand-alone venues offer tasting menus and chef-led experiences that showcase local ingredients in creative ways.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu are home to large malls and lifestyle centres where you will find international brands, local fashion, cinemas, and family entertainment all under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Browse markets in Manila, Cebu, and regional towns for handmade crafts, woven items, accessories, and home décor. You will also find local snacks, dried fruits, and souvenirs to take home.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and selected markets stay open late, with bright lights, street food, and live music turning some retail areas into social gathering places.
Best time to visit Philippines
Dry season (peak season): From December to May, much of the Philippines experiences drier weather with average temperatures around 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), making it popular for beach holidays and island-hopping. Wet season (shoulder season): From June to November, you can expect more frequent showers and occasional storms, with temperatures around 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F); some travellers prefer this period for fewer crowds. Cooler upland escapes (low season): In higher-altitude areas throughout the year, temperatures can be a few degrees lower, around 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), offering a quieter alternative to coastal heat.