The Philippines is a sun-soaked archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, where emerald rice terraces, coral-fringed bays, and warm hospitality meet. You can experience both vibrant cities and peaceful tropical escapes in one journey.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
Expect lively streets in Manila, laid-back waterfronts in Cebu, and easy access to famed islands like Bohol and Palawan. Between modern shopping districts and historic plazas, you will find a relaxed pace and an easygoing coastal lifestyle.
Plan your trip
Use Manila and Cebu as your gateways to explore further across the Visayas and Luzon, with domestic flights and ferries linking to beach towns and dive hotspots. The Philippines pairs well with wider Southeast Asia itineraries, especially when connecting via Singapore.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Wander the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila's fortified old quarter, where Spanish-era walls, leafy plazas, and museums reveal centuries of history.
Island-hop around Cebu and nearby shores
Use Cebu as a base for boat trips to nearby islands, where you can snorkel clear waters, relax on white-sand beaches, and visit quiet coastal villages.
Discover Manila Bay and its skyline views
Stroll along Manila Bay at sunset for sweeping water views, city lights, and a glimpse of the capital's ever-changing skyline.
Visit hilltop viewpoints and city parks
Head to popular viewpoints around Manila and Cebu for cooler breezes, city panoramas, and an easy escape from the urban buzz.
Dive or snorkel vibrant coral reefs
Join day trips from Cebu to nearby marine sanctuaries, where reefs shelter colourful fish, sea turtles, and impressive drop-offs.
Experience the waterfront in Cebu City
Walk Cebu City's waterfront areas to see busy ports, evolving promenades, and a mix of historic landmarks and modern developments.
Spend a day in Manila's museums and galleries
Explore museums around Manila for art, history, and interactive exhibits that give a deeper sense of the country's story.
Relax on nearby resort islands
From both Manila and Cebu, you can reach resort islands offering calm lagoons, simple beach bars, and quiet stretches of sand perfect for unwinding.
Experience the Philippines way of life
Getting around
To cover longer distances, domestic flights from Manila and Cebu connect you quickly with major islands and regional hubs. Within cities, you can combine taxis, app-based rides, and local transport for short hops between districts and waterfront areas.
Local life & culture
Daily life centres on close-knit communities, lively festivals, and music-filled gatherings that often spill out into parks and plazas. You will notice a welcoming, English-accented conversation style and a strong sense of pride in both city neighbourhoods and island provinces.
Where to unwind
Unwind on palm-lined beaches close to Cebu, or escape to nearby hill resorts for cooler air and quiet trails. In Manila, waterfront promenades, urban parks, and bayside spots offer gentle walks and open views over the water.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Across the Philippines you will find hearty stews, grilled meats, and rich noodle dishes, often enjoyed family-style. Manila and Cebu both offer classic comfort favourites that showcase the country's love of bold flavours and generous portions.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila and Cebu, casual eateries, food halls, and contemporary cafes sit side by side, serving everything from local home-style plates to pan-Asian and Western favourites. It is easy to find relaxed places to eat at almost any time of day.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for rooftop restaurants in Manila or harbourside spots in Cebu for wide city and sea views with your meal. Coastal resorts around both cities also offer intimate dinners by the water, ideal for lingering after sunset.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu are home to large malls and lifestyle centres where you can browse international brands, local fashion, and lifestyle stores in air-conditioned comfort. Many also include cinemas, dining clusters, and family-friendly attractions.
Markets & local crafts
In both Manila and Cebu, markets and smaller shops offer handmade crafts, woven goods, and locally produced souvenirs. Nearby provincial towns also showcase regional textiles and traditional craftwork for something more distinctive.
Evening retail scene
After dark, Manila's and Cebu's main shopping districts glow with neon signs, late-opening malls, and lively streetside stalls. You can pair evening shopping with relaxed dining and people-watching in busy public squares.
Best time to visit Philippines
The dry peak season typically runs from December to April (peak season), with warm days around 26–32°C (79–90°F) and lower rainfall, ideal for beaches and island-hopping. The shoulder season spans May to June and November (shoulder season), when temperatures can reach 28–34°C (82–93°F) with higher humidity and brief showers but fewer crowds in many areas. The wetter months of July to October (low season) bring more frequent rain and occasional storms, with temperatures around 25–31°C (77–88°F), yet you can still enjoy city breaks and quieter coastal stays between showers.