Flights from France to Philippines

Discover Philippines

Discover Philippines

Why visit Philippines?

The Philippines is an archipelago of tropical islands, where white-sand beaches, clear waters, and friendly hospitality define your stay. You will find lively cities, historic districts, and quiet coastal escapes within easy reach of each other.

What to expect

From the bustling streets of Manila to the laid-back shores of Cebu and the islands beyond, each region has its own rhythm. Expect a mix of Spanish-era architecture, modern skylines, lively waterfronts, and a strong love of music and festivals.

Plan your trip

Use Manila and Cebu as gateways to explore islands such as Palawan, Bohol, or Boracay, all reachable by domestic flights or ferries. The country works well for both short beach breaks and longer multi-island adventures across Southeast Asia.

Top experiences in Philippines

Explore historic Intramuros in Manila

Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's old walled city, to see Spanish-era fortifications, leafy plazas, and restored colonial houses.

Island-hop from Cebu

Use Cebu as a base to visit nearby islands and sandbars, where you can swim, snorkel, and relax on quiet tropical beaches.

Discover Palawan's limestone lagoons

Join a boat tour from El Nido or Coron to glide between towering limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and emerald lagoons.

Unwind in Boracay

Stroll along Boracay's White Beach at sunset, then enjoy relaxed seaside bars and live music by the water.

See the Chocolate Hills of Bohol

Travel inland from the coast of Bohol to view the rolling Chocolate Hills and nearby rice fields from scenic viewpoints.

Dive or snorkel in rich coral reefs

Head to sites around Cebu, Bohol, or Palawan to discover colourful coral gardens and a wide variety of marine life.

Experience Manila's modern waterfront

Spend an evening along Manila Bay or in contemporary districts with bayside promenades, galleries, and entertainment venues.

Experience Philippines's way of life

Getting around

To cover longer distances across the Philippines, domestic flights link Manila and Cebu with major islands such as Palawan, Bohol, and Davao. Within cities and towns, you can travel by taxi, ride-hailing services, jeepneys, or tricycles, while inter-island ferries are common on shorter routes.

Local life & culture

Daily life blends Spanish, American, and Asian influences, seen in language, architecture, and celebrations. You will notice a strong sense of family, an easygoing approach to time, and a love of music, dance, and lively street festivals.

Where to unwind

Seek quiet coves and sheltered bays on islands around Palawan, Bohol, and Cebu for time by the sea. In Manila and Cebu City, urban parks, seafront promenades, and spa hotels offer spaces to relax after days of sightseeing.

A taste of Philippines

National dishes & specialties

Filipino classics include adobo stews, grilled meats and seafood, and hearty dishes such as kare-kare and sinigang, often served with rice. In Manila and Cebu, you can try regional variations and savour local desserts made with coconut, rice, and tropical fruit.

Casual & modern dining hubs

In Manila and Cebu City, you will find food courts, cafés, and neighbourhood eateries serving Filipino favourites alongside East Asian, European, and American cuisines. Modern dining districts and malls bring together quick bites, family-friendly restaurants, and contemporary bistros.

Signature & scenic dining

Enjoy rooftop restaurants in Manila with views over the city and bay, or beachfront grills in Cebu and island resorts where you dine close to the water. Many hotels and resorts offer refined tasting menus that highlight local ingredients in a more modern style.

Retail therapy in Philippines

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Manila is known for large shopping centres that combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining, while Cebu City offers modern malls with a similar mix. These air-conditioned spaces are popular places to shop, meet friends, and spend time out of the heat.

Markets & local crafts

Look for handicrafts such as woven textiles, shell accessories, and wood carvings in markets around Manila, Cebu, and Bohol. Smaller island towns often have souvenir stalls where you can support local artisans and bring home handmade pieces.

Evening retail scene

In the evenings, many malls in Manila and Cebu stay open late, with lively promenades, music, and outdoor dining. Some neighbourhoods host night markets or street-side stalls selling clothes, accessories, and snacks in a relaxed atmosphere.

Best time to visit Philippines

The dry season, typically from December to May, is the peak season, with warm temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F), clear skies, and calmer seas that suit beach and island trips. The rainy season, usually from June to October, is the shoulder season, bringing higher humidity, frequent showers, and temperatures around 24–31°C (75–88°F), with some regions experiencing heavier rains. Between seasons, roughly in November and early December, a brief transition period can feel like a low season, with fewer visitors, temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F), and a mix of sunny and rainy days.

Frequently Asked Questions