The Philippines offers tropical islands, friendly communities, and vivid city life, from the capital Manila to laid-back coastal towns. You find a mix of Spanish colonial heritage, modern skylines, and untouched landscapes.
Discover Philippines
Discover Philippines
Why visit Philippines?
What to expect
Expect more than 7,000 islands with white-sand beaches, emerald rice terraces, and dramatic volcanoes, alongside busy urban centres like Manila and Cebu. Island-hopping, dive spots, and lively festivals shape many journeys here.
Plan your trip
Most international trips start in Manila or Cebu, which connect easily to resort islands such as Palawan and Boracay. The country also works well as a base for exploring wider South-east Asia by air.
Top experiences in Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Walk the cobbled streets of Intramuros to see centuries-old walls, plazas, and colonial landmarks that tell the story of old Manila.
Island-hop around Palawan
Cruise past limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and sandbars in Palawan, often described as the country s most spectacular island region.
Relax on the beaches of Boracay
Spend your days on Boracay s soft white sand, swimming in clear waters and enjoying sunset views along the famous White Beach.
Discover Cebu s city and sea
Combine heritage sites in Cebu City with quick trips to nearby islands for snorkelling, waterfalls, and coastal escapes.
Visit the Chocolate Hills of Bohol
See the unique rolling hills of Bohol, which turn brown in the dry season, and pair the trip with river cruises and countryside villages.
Trek the rice terraces of Banaue and Batad
Head into the Cordillera mountains to hike among ancient rice terraces carved into steep slopes and stay in cool highland towns.
Dive in Anilao or Apo Reef
Experience clear waters and rich marine life at dive hotspots like Anilao in Batangas or the remote Apo Reef Natural Park.
Enjoy city life in Manila s modern districts
Explore Makati, Bonifacio Global City, and Ortigas, with their mix of shopping, galleries, and rooftop views over the capital.
Experience Philippines way of life
Getting around
For longer distances, domestic flights link Manila and Cebu with major islands such as Palawan, Bohol, and Davao. Within cities and towns, you can combine taxis or ride-hailing apps with local options like jeepneys, buses, and ferries for island connections.
Local life & culture
Daily life in the Philippines moves at a relaxed but energetic pace, with strong community ties and a blend of Asian and Hispanic influences. You see lively plazas, colourful neighbourhood fiestas, and a love of music and shared gatherings across cities and islands.
Where to unwind
You can unwind on quiet beaches in Palawan or Siargao, soak up the cool air in mountain retreats like Tagaytay and Baguio, or escape the city in landscaped parks and bayside promenades. Many resorts and spas offer wellness treatments that make the most of the coastal setting.
A taste of Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Signature dishes such as adobo, crispy pork lechon, and sour tamarind-based sinigang appear across the country, each region adding its own twist. In Manila and Cebu, you also find local favourites like pancit noodles, grilled seafood, and sweet halo-halo desserts.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila, areas like Makati and Bonifacio Global City offer everything from casual eateries to contemporary bistros, reflecting global and regional flavours. Cebu and other major cities have growing café and food hall scenes that are easy to explore between sightseeing.
Signature & scenic dining
You can dine with skyline views from rooftop restaurants in Manila, or enjoy seafront meals in Cebu and island destinations such as Palawan and Boracay. Many coastal resorts pair fresh seafood with open-air terraces, creating memorable evenings by the water.
Retail therapy in Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is known for large shopping centres and lifestyle districts, especially in Makati, Ortigas, and Pasay, where you find international brands alongside local labels. Cebu City also offers modern malls that mix fashion, entertainment, and dining.
Markets & local crafts
In Manila, Cebu, and Davao, markets and smaller shops sell local crafts such as woven textiles, wood carvings, and shell accessories. Regional hubs like Baguio and Iloilo are also known for handmade goods and produce from surrounding communities.
Evening retail scene
After dark, major city malls often stay open late, with lively dining streets and illuminated façades. In urban neighbourhoods and tourist areas, you can also find night markets and street stalls selling souvenirs, snacks, and everyday essentials.
Best time to visit Philippines
The dry season, typically from December to May (peak season), brings plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, with average temperatures around 25 to 32 °C (77 to 90 °F), ideal for beaches and island-hopping. The early and late rainy periods, usually June to July and October to November (shoulder season), can offer fewer crowds and lower humidity between showers, with temperatures around 24 to 31 °C (75 to 88 °F). The wetter core months of August and September (low season) see heavier rainfall and possible storms, though temperatures remain warm at around 24 to 30 °C (75 to 86 °F).