The Philippines is a tropical archipelago of pristine beaches, emerald rice terraces, and vibrant cities. You can expect warm hospitality, island adventures, and a relaxed pace of life surrounded by sea and sky.
Discover the Philippines
Discover the Philippines
Why visit the Philippines?
What to expect
From the buzz of Manila to the laid-back shores of Cebu and its neighbouring islands, each region has its own character. Expect lively festivals, historic town centres, and countless islands offering diving, snorkelling, and sailing.
Plan your trip
Use Manila as a gateway to northern highlands and heritage towns, and Cebu as a springboard to the central Visayas. With frequent domestic links and ferries, you can easily combine city stays with island escapes across the country.
Top experiences in the Philippines
Explore historic Intramuros in Manila
Wander the cobbled streets of Intramuros, Manila’s old walled city, where colonial-era architecture, leafy plazas, and museums tell the story of the country’s capital.
Island-hop around Cebu and the Visayas
Base yourself in Cebu and join day trips or longer cruises to nearby islands with coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and relaxed coastal towns.
Visit Taal Lake and volcano viewpoints
Take a day trip from Manila to viewpoints around Taal Lake, where cool breezes, lakeside cafes, and panoramic ridges offer a scenic escape from the city.
Dive and snorkel vibrant coral reefs
Discover the Philippines’ underwater world at accessible sites near Cebu and other Visayas islands, home to colourful reefs, schools of fish, and occasional turtle sightings.
Unwind on urban bayfronts
Stroll along Manila’s bayside promenades at sunset for skyline views, sea air, and a chance to see the city wind down after a busy day.
Discover Spanish-era churches
Step inside centuries-old stone churches in Manila and Cebu to admire baroque facades, ornate interiors, and quiet courtyards set amid modern city streets.
Chase waterfalls in the countryside
Join guided trips from Cebu to jungle-fringed waterfalls and natural pools where you can swim, take photos, or simply enjoy the cooler mountain air.
Enjoy coastal road trips
Hire a car with a driver or join a tour to follow coastal roads around Cebu and nearby islands, stopping at viewpoints, beaches, and small villages along the way.
Experience the Philippines way of life
Getting around
For longer distances, domestic flights connect Manila, Cebu, and other major hubs efficiently, while ferries link many islands. Within cities, you can combine taxis, ride-hailing apps, and local transport for short hops, then join organised tours for day trips into the countryside.
Local life & culture
Daily life in the Philippines blends modern city living with strong community ties, from lively neighbourhood streets to colourful festivals. You will notice a mix of indigenous, Asian, and European influences in architecture, language, and arts throughout Manila, Cebu, and beyond.
Where to unwind
Relax on palm-fringed beaches near Cebu, or escape Manila’s bustle in nearby hill stations and lakeside retreats. Across the islands, you will find coastal resorts, simple beachfront stays, and spa hotels where you can slow down between sightseeing days.
A taste of the Philippines
National dishes & specialties
Classics such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon are beloved across the country, with each region adding its own twist. In Manila and Cebu, you will find many places serving grilled seafood, hearty stews, and comforting rice dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Manila’s districts and Cebu’s city malls are packed with casual eateries, cafes, and modern restaurants offering both Filipino and international flavours. From quick snacks to leisurely shared meals, it is easy to dine well between sightseeing or shopping.
Signature & scenic dining
In Manila, rooftop venues and bayfront restaurants offer city and harbour views, while in Cebu you can dine by the beach or on hillside terraces. Across the islands, many resorts serve fresh seafood and local produce in relaxed, open-air settings.
Retail therapy in the Philippines
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is known for its large, modern malls where you will find international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family attractions under one roof. Cebu City also offers contemporary shopping centres that combine retail, dining, and entertainment.
Markets & local crafts
Seek out markets in Manila and Cebu for handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, from woven items to decorative pieces. Around the islands, small coastal towns sometimes host local markets where artisans sell regionally made products.
Evening retail scene
In Manila, many malls and shopping streets stay lively into the evening, with illuminated storefronts and late-night dining. Cebu’s commercial areas also remain active after dark, offering relaxed browsing and people-watching once the sun has set.
Best time to visit the Philippines
Dry season (peak season): From December to April, much of the Philippines enjoys drier, sunnier weather, with average temperatures around 26–32°C (79–90°F), ideal for beach and island trips. Wet season (low season): From June to October, rain showers and occasional storms are more common, with temperatures around 25–31°C (77–88°F), though you can still enjoy breaks of sunshine. Transition months (shoulder season): May and November offer a balance of warm conditions and fewer crowds, with temperatures around 26–32°C (79–90°F), but with an increased chance of brief showers, especially in the afternoons.