Flights from Barcelona (BCN) to Philippines

Discover the Philippines

Discover the Philippines

Why visit the Philippines?
The Philippines welcomes you with palm-fringed beaches, emerald rice terraces, and a laid-back island rhythm. You can explore lively cities, hidden coves, and warm, welcoming communities across this island nation.
What to expect
With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines offers diverse experiences from the bustle of Manila and Cebu to quieter islands with coral reefs and mountain trails. Each region has its own blend of Spanish-influenced heritage, tropical scenery, and coastal adventures.
Plan your trip
You can combine time in major gateways like Manila and Cebu with side trips to nearby islands and highlands. The Philippines is also an excellent starting point for exploring more of Southeast Asia, thanks to strong air links through Singapore.

Top experiences in the Philippines

Explore historic Intramuros in Manila

Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's old walled city, to see centuries-old fortifications, plazas, and colonial-era landmarks.

Island-hop around Mactan and nearby islets

From Cebu, take island-hopping boat trips to snorkel in clear waters, visit sandbars, and relax on quiet beaches around Mactan.

Discover the Cordillera rice terraces

Travel north from Manila to see dramatic mountain landscapes carved into rice terraces, shaped by generations of local communities.

Dive and snorkel vibrant coral reefs

Head to coastal hubs such as Batangas or central Visayas islands to find dive sites with colourful corals, reef fish, and clear visibility.

Enjoy city views from Cebu's hilltops

Visit hillside lookouts above Cebu City for sweeping views over the urban skyline, harbour, and surrounding mountains.

Unwind on Luzon and Visayas beaches

Choose from easily reached beaches near Manila and Cebu, where soft sand and calm seas are ideal for swimming and sunset walks.

Visit museums and galleries in Manila

Spend time in Manila's museums to learn about the country's history, art, and contemporary culture in air-conditioned comfort.

Experience the Philippines's way of life

Getting around
You will typically arrive in Manila or Cebu then connect onwards by domestic flights or ferries to other islands. Buses, ride-hailing services, and taxis make it straightforward to move around major urban areas.
Local life & culture
Daily life in the Philippines blends modern city living with strong community ties and festive traditions. You will notice music, street life, and friendly encounters everywhere, from busy business districts to coastal neighbourhoods.
Where to unwind
Across the country you can slow down on beachfront resorts, mountain retreats, and island hideaways. Many travellers split their time between a city base and a quieter coastal or highland escape to fully relax.

A taste of the Philippines

National dishes & specialties
You can try hearty stews, grilled meats, and tangy dishes that balance sour, salty, and sweet flavours. Manila and Cebu are both strong introductions to classic Filipino food, with many local favourites easy to find.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In major cities, you will find casual eateries, food courts, and contemporary restaurants serving everything from local comfort food to regional Asian and international dishes. Shopping districts and business areas often gather many options in one walkable area.
Signature & scenic dining
Skyline venues, seaside promenades, and resort restaurants provide memorable settings for a special meal. You can dine with views over Manila Bay, Cebu's harbour, or beachfront sunsets on nearby islands.

Retail therapy in the Philippines

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls in Manila and Cebu combine international brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining in air-conditioned comfort. These complexes often connect to business districts, making them convenient stops during your stay.
Markets & local crafts
You can look for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs in city markets and specialty shops, especially around Manila, Cebu, and regional centres. Each area has its own style, from woven items to decorative homeware.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and malls in major cities stay lively with extended opening hours. Some neighbourhoods also host evening markets, pairing small stalls with street food and casual entertainment.

Best time to visit the Philippines

Dry peak season (peak season)
From December to April, much of the Philippines experiences its drier months, with temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F). This is popular for beach trips, island-hopping, and clearer skies.
Shoulder months around the rains (shoulder season)
May to early June and November can bring warmer days and some showers, with typical temperatures of 26–33°C (79–91°F). You may enjoy fewer crowds while still seeing plenty of sunshine.
Rainy monsoon period (low season)
From June to October, the southwest monsoon brings more frequent rain and occasional storms, with temperatures near 25–31°C (77–88°F). Travel is still possible, but you should allow extra flexibility for outdoor plans.

Frequently Asked Questions