The Philippines offers tropical islands, clear seas, and lively cities, blending Spanish heritage with a relaxed island lifestyle. You find warm hospitality, rich history, and some of Asia's most beautiful beaches.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
From the energy of Manila to the beaches of Cebu and Palawan, every region feels distinct. You can explore colonial old towns, dramatic volcano landscapes, and coral reefs, alongside modern malls and entertainment districts.
Plan your trip
The Philippines works well for both short getaways and longer island-hopping adventures. With Manila and Cebu as major gateways to the archipelago and the wider region, it is easy to connect onwards by air or sea.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's historic walled district, where restored colonial buildings and stone ramparts tell the story of the city's past.
Island-hop from Cebu
Use Cebu as your base to reach nearby islands with white-sand beaches, clear snorkelling spots, and relaxed coastal towns.
Discover Palawan's lagoons
Cruise between limestone cliffs and emerald lagoons in Palawan, often considered one of the country's most scenic island regions.
Head to the highlands of Baguio
Escape the lowland heat in Baguio's cool mountain climate, with pine-covered hills, viewpoints, and creative local markets.
Dive coral reefs in the Visayas
Join a dive trip in the Visayas region to see vibrant coral reefs, turtles, and colourful marine life in warm tropical waters.
Enjoy Manila Bay at sunset
Stroll along Manila Bay as the sun sets over the water, then stay on to experience the nearby dining and entertainment areas.
Visit the rice terraces of Northern Luzon
Travel into Northern Luzon to see centuries-old rice terraces carved into steep mountainsides, surrounded by rural villages and cool air.
Experience Philippines's way of life
Getting around
To cross larger distances, domestic flights link Manila and Cebu with major islands across the archipelago. Within cities and towns, you can combine taxis or ride-hailing services with local options such as jeepneys and tricycles, while ferries and fast boats connect nearby islands.
Local life & culture
Daily life in the Philippines moves to a social, family-centred rhythm, with festivals, music, and neighbourhood gatherings playing a big role. You feel a mix of influences in language, architecture, and customs, from Indigenous roots to Spanish, American, and Asian heritage.
Where to unwind
You can slow down on quiet island beaches, at coastal resorts, or in hilltop retreats with cooler air. Many hotels and resorts across Manila, Cebu, and the islands offer spas, pools, and garden spaces, while nature lovers can head to waterfalls, rivers, and mountain trails.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Classic dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon reflect the country's love of bold, savoury flavours, often shared at family-style meals. Manila, Cebu, and the surrounding regions are ideal places to try these alongside local street snacks and regional specialities.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila and Cebu, you find casual food courts, cafés, and modern eateries serving everything from traditional Filipino fare to pan-Asian dishes and international favourites. Neighbourhood centres and malls make it easy to sample a wide range of flavours in one stop.
Signature & scenic dining
Waterfront restaurants around Manila Bay and Cebu's coastal districts combine sea views with fresh seafood-focused menus. In the highlands and island resorts, you can enjoy open-air dining surrounded by forests, mountains, or ocean vistas.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu feature large malls and lifestyle centres where you can browse international labels, local designers, cinemas, and entertainment spaces in one place. These complexes often include supermarkets, salons, and services that make errands and shopping easy to combine.
Markets & local crafts
In Manila, Cebu, and Baguio, markets and smaller shops offer handmade crafts, homeware, and souvenirs such as woven textiles, wood carvings, and accessories. Many regional towns also have local handicraft centres showcasing products made in nearby communities.
Evening retail scene
After dark, entertainment districts in Manila and Cebu stay lively with late-opening shops, cafés, and street stalls. Some neighbourhoods set up night markets or outdoor kiosks, adding a relaxed atmosphere to your evening stroll.
Best time to visit Philippines
Dry season (peak season): From December to April, much of the Philippines experiences drier weather, with average temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F), ideal for beach and outdoor activities. Shoulder season: From May to early June and November, you can expect warm conditions of about 26–32°C (79–90°F), with a higher chance of short showers but fewer crowds. Rainy season (low season): From June to October, many regions see increased rainfall and occasional storms, with temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F), making it a quieter and often greener time to explore.