The Philippines offers emerald islands, white-sand beaches, and warm hospitality across more than 7,000 islands. You can expect vibrant cities, laid-back coastal towns, and a welcoming, easy-going atmosphere wherever you go.
Discover the Philippines
Discover the Philippines
Why visit the Philippines?
What to expect
From the energy of Manila to the relaxed pace of Cebu and the Visayas, the Philippines blends modern city life with island adventures. Expect a mix of Spanish colonial heritage, bustling shopping districts, and easy access to world-class diving and beaches.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as gateways to explore Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao by domestic flight or ferry. The Philippines is ideal for multi-stop journeys, whether you are combining business in the city with beach escapes or exploring several islands in one trip.
Top experiences in the Philippines
Old Manila and Intramuros
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, explore Spanish-era churches and fortifications, and discover Manila's layered history in its oldest walled district.
Island-hopping from Cebu
Use Cebu as your base for island-hopping to nearby islets, waterfalls, and marine sanctuaries, with opportunities for snorkelling and swimming in clear tropical waters.
Explore Manila's bayside skyline
Stroll along Manila Bay at sunset, then head into nearby districts for modern shopping centres, live music, and cultural performances.
Beaches and diving in the Visayas
Travel onwards from Cebu to the wider Visayas region, where you will find calm beaches, coral reefs, and renowned dive sites suitable for all experience levels.
Volcano and mountain landscapes
From Luzon, you can join tours to volcanic peaks and terraced mountain regions, where cooler air and scenic viewpoints offer a contrast to coastal heat.
Festivals and city celebrations
Time your visit with city festivals in Manila or Cebu to see colourful street parades, music, and performances that bring local traditions to life.
Waterfront leisure in Cebu City
Enjoy Cebu City's evolving waterfront areas, where you can combine sea views with dining, shopping, and relaxed evening walks.
Experience the Philippines way of life
Getting around
The most efficient way to travel longer distances in the Philippines is by domestic flight, linking Manila and Cebu with major islands. Within cities, you can use taxis, ride-hailing services, or organised transfers, while ferries and boats connect nearby islands in many regions.
Local life & culture
Life in the Philippines moves to a relaxed rhythm, with family gatherings, music, and neighbourhood plazas at its heart. You will notice a blend of Spanish, American, and local influences in architecture, language, and city layouts, especially in Manila and Cebu.
Where to unwind
Unwind on palm-fringed beaches a short journey from Manila or Cebu, or escape to quieter islands for swimming and gentle walks. City stays can be balanced with spa treatments, rooftop pools, and parks where you can take a break from the tropical heat.
A taste of the Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Filipino cuisine is known for hearty, flavourful dishes often built around pork, seafood, and rice, with sweet, sour, and savoury notes. Manila and Cebu are good places to try well-known classics and regional interpretations in both traditional and contemporary settings.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila and Cebu you will find casual eateries, street-side stalls, and modern cafés sharing space with international chains and fusion spots. Dining districts and malls bring together regional Filipino flavours with East Asian, American, and European influences in one place.
Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, seek out rooftop restaurants in Manila with skyline or bay views, or waterfront venues in Cebu overlooking the sea. Many coastal destinations offer relaxed open-air dining where the atmosphere and setting are as much a highlight as the menu.
Retail therapy in the Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is home to some of Asia's largest malls, with international labels, local designers, cinemas, and family attractions under one roof. Cebu also offers modern shopping centres that mix fashion, gadgets, and dining in comfortable, air-conditioned spaces.
Markets & local crafts
Across Manila, Cebu, and smaller cities, markets and craft stores offer handmade items such as woven textiles, wood carvings, and decorative pieces. These are good places to pick up souvenirs that reflect local craftsmanship and regional traditions.
Evening retail scene
In the evenings, major shopping districts in Manila and Cebu stay lively, with extended mall hours, illuminated façades, and bustling food courts. Some neighbourhoods also host pop-up stalls and small night markets where you can browse and snack as you go.
Best time to visit the Philippines
Dry season (peak season): From December to April, much of the Philippines enjoys drier weather with daytime temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F), ideal for beach and island travel. Wet season (shoulder season): From May to October, showers and thunderstorms are more frequent, especially in the afternoons, with similar temperatures of 25–31°C (77–88°F); travel is still possible, but you should plan around rain. Transitional months (low season): November and late May can bring variable conditions and fewer crowds, with temperatures of about 24–31°C (75–88°F), and some regions experiencing shifting winds and occasional storms.