Flights from London (LON) to Philippines

Discover the Philippines

Discover the Philippines

Why visit the Philippines?
The Philippines is a nation of more than 7,000 islands, known for clear waters, white-sand beaches, and friendly hospitality. You find a blend of Asian and Spanish heritage, lively festivals, and relaxed seaside towns.
What to expect
Your journey often starts in Manila, a bustling capital with historic districts and modern malls, or Cebu, a gateway to beaches and dive spots. Beyond the cities, island-hopping reveals coral reefs, limestone cliffs, and quiet fishing villages.
Plan your trip
You can combine city breaks, island escapes, and adventure in a single itinerary. With strong air links through hubs like Singapore, the Philippines also makes an easy starting point for wider travels across Southeast Asia.

Top experiences in the Philippines

Explore Intramuros in Manila

Walk the cobbled streets of the old walled city, where centuries-old stone fortifications and plazas tell the story of Manila’s colonial past.

Island-hop around Cebu and nearby isles

Join a boat trip from Cebu to neighbouring islands for snorkelling, sandbars, and quiet coves with clear, shallow water.

Discover the rice terraces of the north

Travel into the Cordillera mountains to see dramatic rice terraces, hillside villages, and cool highland scenery.

Snorkel and dive vibrant coral reefs

Head to coastal hubs such as Cebu’s nearby islands to find coral gardens, turtles, and colourful marine life in warm tropical waters.

Experience Manila’s modern city life

Spend time in business and lifestyle districts, where you can visit museums, dine out, and enjoy rooftop views of the skyline.

Chase waterfalls and jungle trails

Venture inland from Cebu or other islands to reach waterfalls, forested trails, and natural pools surrounded by lush greenery.

Relax on white-sand beaches

Choose from family-friendly resort areas or quieter stretches of sand, where you can swim, sunbathe, and watch vivid sunsets.

Experience the Philippines way of life

Getting around
You will usually arrive in Manila or Cebu, then connect by domestic flights or ferries to other islands. Taxis, ride-hailing services, and hotel transfers are the most convenient ways to move between airports, city districts, and ports.
Local life & culture
City neighbourhoods mix high-rise offices, heritage buildings, and lively streetside life. Music, family gatherings, and local festivals are central to daily routines, and you often see community life unfolding in plazas, seafront promenades, and neighbourhood basketball courts.
Where to unwind
Across the islands you find beach resorts, coastal promenades, and hilltop viewpoints ideal for slow days. Many hotels feature pools and spas, while quiet coves and gentle hiking trails offer a simple way to disconnect in nature.

A taste of the Philippines

National dishes & specialties
The Philippines is known for hearty home-style dishes, rich stews, grilled meats, and seafood. Manila and Cebu both offer regional takes on classic comfort food, often paired with local rice and fresh tropical fruit.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Manila’s business districts and Cebu’s city centre, you find casual eateries, cafés, and modern restaurants side by side. International cuisines sit next to local favourites, giving you plenty of choice whether you prefer quick bites or leisurely meals.
Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop venues in Manila and waterfront spots in Cebu serve city or sea views with your meal. Beachside resorts and hotels across the islands often offer open-air dining, where you can linger over dinner as the sky changes colour.

Retail therapy in the Philippines

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila is home to large malls and lifestyle centres, where you find international fashion, local brands, cinemas, and dining under one roof. Cebu’s urban districts also feature modern shopping complexes close to hotels and offices.
Markets & local crafts
In Manila, Cebu, and smaller island towns, markets showcase everyday wares alongside handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Coastal regions often highlight products inspired by the sea, from shell accents to woven beach accessories.
Evening retail scene
After dark, big-city malls stay lively with late-night shopping, dining, and entertainment. In some neighbourhoods, street stalls and small markets appear in the evening, adding a relaxed, social feel to the shopping experience.

Best time to visit the Philippines

Peak season
From December to April, the dry season brings warm, mostly sunny days, with average temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F). Beaches and islands are at their busiest, and sea conditions are generally calmer.
Shoulder season
From May to June and November, you can expect warm temperatures of about 26–32°C (79–90°F) with a mix of sunshine and showers. Occasional rain clouds clear quickly, and popular areas are slightly less crowded.
Low season
From July to October, the wetter months bring higher rainfall and humidity, with temperatures around 25–31°C (77–88°F). Some coastal regions may see rougher seas and short, intense downpours between brighter spells.

Frequently Asked Questions