The Philippines offers tropical islands, warm hospitality, and a mix of modern cities and laid-back coastal towns. You will find diverse landscapes, from white-sand beaches to rugged mountains and lush rice terraces.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
Expect lively cities like Manila and Cebu, island escapes in Palawan and Boracay, and heritage towns dotted with Spanish-era architecture. There is a strong outdoor culture, a love of music, and a welcoming, easy-going pace of life.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as gateways to explore the country, with onward flights and ferries linking major islands. Combine your visit with a stop in Singapore to break the journey and experience two vibrant Southeast Asian destinations in one trip.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's old walled city, to see stone churches, colonial-era fortifications, and museums that tell the story of the capital.
Island hopping in Cebu and nearby isles
Use Cebu as your base for boat trips to clear-water islands, snorkelling spots, and quiet beaches scattered across the Visayas region.
Marvel at the Chocolate Hills in Bohol
Take a side trip from Cebu to Bohol to see the unique Chocolate Hills, rolling green mounds that turn brown in the dry season, and combine it with river cruises and countryside tours.
Escape to Palawan's lagoons
Fly onwards from Manila or Cebu to Palawan for karst cliffs, emerald lagoons, and island-hopping tours around El Nido and Coron.
Relax on Boracay's White Beach
Unwind on Boracay's famous White Beach, a long curve of soft sand lined with cafés and sunset bars, and enjoy water sports in crystal-clear waters.
Discover Banaue's rice terraces
Head north from Manila to see the terraced rice fields of Banaue and Batad, often called stairways carved into the mountains, with hiking trails and village stays.
Dive the reefs of the Philippines
Join dive trips from Cebu, Bohol, or Anilao to explore coral reefs, colourful marine life, and, in some areas, dramatic drop-offs and wrecks.
Experience city life in Cebu IT Park
Spend an evening in Cebu IT Park or nearby districts, where you will find cafés, outdoor dining, and a glimpse of the city’s modern lifestyle.
Experience Philippines's way of life
Getting around
For longer distances, domestic flights link Manila and Cebu with major islands such as Palawan, Davao, and Iloilo. Within cities you will find taxis and app-based rides, while shorter hops and island towns are served by buses, jeepneys, tricycles, and ferries.
Local life & culture
Daily life blends Asian and Spanish influences, with lively neighbourhoods, family gatherings, and frequent festivals. You will notice a strong music culture, from live bands to karaoke, and a tradition of warm, informal hospitality in both cities and smaller towns.
Where to unwind
Head to the beaches around Cebu, Palawan, and Boracay for swimming and sunset walks, or seek cooler air in upland retreats such as Tagaytay or Baguio. Many islands and coastal resorts offer spas, yoga spaces, and quiet coves where you can slow down by the sea.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Try Filipino staples such as adobo, grilled meats, and seafood, alongside sour tamarind stews and noodle dishes. Manila and Cebu are great places to sample regional specialities that draw on coastal ingredients and family recipes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila, areas like Bonifacio Global City, Makati, and Ortigas offer a mix of local eateries, cafés, and international restaurants, while Cebu City has expanding food districts and malls with wide-ranging choices. You will find everything from quick local meals to modern fusion concepts.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy rooftop restaurants in Manila with skyline views, seaside dining along Manila Bay, or beachfront meals in Cebu and Boracay with your feet in the sand. Many resorts and hotels offer set menus and tasting experiences that showcase local ingredients in refined settings.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu are known for large malls and lifestyle centres where you can find international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining all in one place. These air-conditioned complexes offer a convenient way to combine shopping with entertainment, especially in warmer months.
Markets & local crafts
Look for handicrafts, woven products, and shell ornaments at markets in Manila, Cebu, and island towns such as Bohol and Palawan. Many regional shops showcase items like wood carvings, locally made textiles, and home décor pieces you can pack as keepsakes.
Evening retail scene
In the evenings, many malls in Manila and Cebu stay open late, with outdoor areas that fill with pop-up stalls and live music. Some city districts host night markets and food streets where you can browse small stands between cafés and bars.
Best time to visit Philippines
Dry season (peak season): From December to April, much of the country sees dry, sunny weather, ideal for beach and island trips, with typical daytime temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). Shoulder months around November and May can be warm and slightly more humid, but still good for travel. Wet season (low season): From June to October, expect higher humidity, frequent showers, and occasional storms, with temperatures usually between 25–31°C (77–88°F); rain often comes in short bursts, so you can still enjoy sightseeing between showers.