The Philippines is a tropical paradise waiting for you to explore, with breathtaking beaches, stunning islands, and endless opportunities for adventure. From the pristine shores of Boracay Island to the enchanting landscapes of Palawan Island and the cultural gems of Cebu Island, there are countless places to visit in the Philippines.
Whether you're planning a 10-day, 2-week, 3-week, or month-long adventure, this guide will help you craft the perfect itinerary and make the most of your time in the Philippines. Read on to discover sample routes and the best options for Philippine trip packages with the best itineraries—get ready for a truly remarkable vacation!
Key Takeaways
Ideal Duration for Your Philippine Adventure - With so many incredible destinations to explore, you might want to consider extending your stay. A 10-day itinerary offers the ultimate tropical island getaway, while a month-long journey provides a deeper, more enriching experience, giving you plenty of time to explore the Philippines' stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and hidden gems.
Recommended Itineraries for Your Trip Around the Philippines
Here are the top suggested routes for an unforgettable journey through the Philippines.
- 10-Day Adventure – Discover Cebu Island, Boracay Island, and El Nido town, perfect for beach getaways, nature trips, and encounters with turtles, sardines, and whale sharks
- 2-Week Escapade – Explore Boracay Island, Cebu Island, and Bohol Island for an incredible mix of beach trips, cultural experiences, and nature excursions.
- 1-Month Exploration – Travel through the Ilocos region, Baguio City, Sagada town, Bohol Island, Cebu Island, Siargao Island, Boracay Island, and Palawan Island. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of unique culture, scenic highlands, and breathtaking island adventures.
Travel Considerations
When planning an extended vacation or multi-destination itinerary in the Philippines, here are key factors to keep in mind for a smooth journey.
- Optimal Travel Period - The dry season, from November to May, offers the best weather for travel, making it the ideal time to visit the Philippines.
- Advance Planning – Given the Philippines’ island geography, planning flights, routes, and accommodations in advance ensures a seamless trip.
- Travel Packages – Consider booking vacation packages with an expertly crafted itinerary and all arrangements conveniently taken care of for your. Plus, bundling hotels, transportation, and tours saves you more than booking separately
How Long Should You Spend in the Philippines?
With thousands of islands to explore, planning a trip to the Philippines opens up a world of possibilities for crafting your ideal itinerary.
If you're wondering how long to spend in the Philippines, staying for at least 10 days allows you to fully immerse yourself in the country’s breathtaking beaches and visit multiple islands for the ultimate tropical holiday. A two-week to month-long itinerary gives you even more time to dive deeper into local culture and visit underrated destinations beyond the popular spots.
As for how long you can stay, most foreign tourists can visit the Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa. If you’d like to stay longer, extensions are available, giving you the flexibility to explore more of the stunning islands and vibrant culture at your own pace.
When is the Best Time to Travel to the Philippines?
When planning your Philippines travel itinerary, it's important to consider the time of year. The dry season, from December to May, offers the best weather for travel, making it the ideal time to visit the Philippines.
For cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and more affordable flights and hotels, aim to travel between June and November, which is the wet season. While there’s an increased chance of rain during this time, you can still enjoy the beauty of the islands with fewer tourists around.
If you enjoy warmer weather and a livelier atmosphere, the summer months from March to May are perfect. Just keep in mind that this is when the islands tend to get busier, so plan accordingly for a more vibrant experience!
What are the top destinations in the Philippines?
The Philippines is a tropical paradise filled with some of the most stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, these must-visit destinations each have their own unique charm and are sure to captivate you:
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Boracay Island: Known for its world-famous White Beach, Boracay Island offers not only powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters but also exciting water activities and a vibrant nightlife scene, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
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Palawan Island: Palawan island is home to breathtaking lagoons, majestic limestone cliffs, and top snorkeling spots, particularly in El Nido town and Coron town. It's also where you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Underground River—an unforgettable natural wonder.
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Cebu Island: Cebu Island offers unique wildlife encounters: swim with sea turtles, witness thousands of sardines in a mesmerizing underwater spectacle, and go whale shark watching. It's also famous for its stunning waterfalls, such as Kawasan Falls, where you can enjoy thrilling canyoneering adventures.
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Bohol Island: Bohol offers a perfect mix of lush countryside and beautiful beaches. It’s also home to vibrant underwater ecosystems, perfect for snorkeling. While here, don’t miss the iconic Chocolate Hills, an amazing geological formation that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
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Siargao Island: Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao Island offers perfect waves for surfers and a laid-back atmosphere for those who prefer to relax. It’s a great destination for beach lovers and adventurers alike, with plenty of serene spots to unwind.
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Manila City: The bustling capital city of the Philippines, Manila is a vibrant blend of modernity and history. Visit Intramuros Old Town, the historic walled city, are the oldest Chinatown in the world, Binondo district, for a unique cultural experience. Manila City offers a rich historical backdrop before heading off to explore the islands.
These destinations are home to some of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, offering unforgettable beaches, breathraking natural attrations, and some of the best snorkeling experiences you can find!
What Are the Lesser-Known Destinations in the Philippines Worth Exploring?
The Philippines is home to breathtaking destinations beyond its well-known attractions. For those seeking hidden gems with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and fewer crowds, these lesser-known places are worth adding to your itinerary.
- Sagada town – Nestled in the cool, misty mountains of Luzon, Sagada town is famous for its unique hanging coffins, scenic treks, and breathtaking mountain views.
- Banaue town – Home to the world-renowned Banaue Rice Terraces, this town offers a glimpse into an ancient agricultural system that has shaped the landscape for centuries.
- Vigan City – This city in Ilocos Region is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming ambiance.
- Camiguin Island – Known as the "Island Born of Fire," Camiguin Island boasts natural wonders like hot springs, waterfalls, white sand beaches, and volcanic landscapes.
- Siquijor Island – With its mystical reputation, Siquijor Island offers a peaceful retreat, beautiful beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and centuries-old traditions.
- Sorsogon Province – Famous for its ethical whale shark interaction in Donsol town, Sorsogon Province in the Bicol region allows visitors to safely and responsibly encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
These underrated destinations in the Philippines offer a unique blend of culture, nature, and tranquility, allowing you to experience the country’s beauty without the crowds. If you're eager to explore these emerging destinations, extending your itinerary to a week or more will give you the perfect opportunity to fully immerse yourself in their charm.
How to get around the Philippines?
Getting around the Philippines can seem a bit overwhelming for first-time visitors, especially with the country's public transportation systems and the need to travel between its many islands. With over 7,000 islands to explore, you'll likely find yourself hopping between air, sea, and land travel, each offering its own unique experience.
Inter-City Travel
There are several operational train routes, mainly through Manila City and neighboring cities on Luzon Island. The Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and the Light Rail Transit (LRT) provide quick and efficient ways to get around the Metropolitan Manila area.
Jeepneys, colorful and iconic, are a fun and affordable option for short trips between cities, though they can get crowded. For even more local flavor, hop onto a tricycle—small, motorized vehicles perfect for navigating narrow streets and reaching remote areas.
If you prefer more comfort and convenience, you can also use car and motorcycle hailing apps to get around. But for a truly flexible experience, consider car rentals in the Philippines. With a rental, you can explore at your own pace, whether you’re driving along scenic coastlines or discovering hidden gems in more remote towns.
Inter-Island Travel
To explore neighboring islands, flights are the most common and quickest option. Major airports in the Philippines, including Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila City, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Palawan Island, connect the country's top destinations, making travel quick and convenient.
To explore neighboring islands, ferry routes in the Philippines are a popular choice, making it easy to travel between islands. Ferries connect major hubs like Cebu Island, Bohol Island, Palawan Island, Siquijor Island, and more, so you can easily hop from one destination to the next.
Pro Tip for Stress-Free Travel
Due to the Philippines' island geography, getting around can be a bit tricky, and travel time might take up a significant portion of your holiday. To make the most of your time and ensure a smooth trip, consider booking Philippine travel packages that include accommodations, flights or ferries, guided tours, and airport transfers.
By booking a package, all your travel arrangements are taken care of in advance. This way, when you arrive in the Philippines, you can simply relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about logistics. You won’t have to stress about planning your itinerary or figuring out how to get around to different parts of the country.
Best 2-Week Itinerary for the Philippines
If you're looking for the perfect way to spend two weeks in the Philippines, check out this Epic 14-Day Tour Package to Bohol Island, Cebu Island & Boracay Island. This hassle-free package includes roundtrip flights from Manila City, accommodations, airport transfers, and six guided tours.
This 14-day itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to experience the best of the Philippines—pristine beaches, breathtaking nature spots, unforgettable boat tours, cultural excursions, and even close encounters with wildlife.
Your two-week trip begins with a flight from Manila City to Bohol Island. Here, you'll go on a tour to the famous Chocolate Hills and visit the Tarsier Sanctuary to see the world’s smallest primates up close. Another highlight is Balicasag Island where you can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside sea turtles, and, if you're lucky, spot playful dolphins in the waves.
Next, you’ll take a ferry to Cebu Island from Bohol Island, where you’ll discover a perfect blend of historical sites, natural wonders, and unforgettable encounters with marine wildlife.
You’ll visit Magellan’s Cross and explore the scenic highlands, including Sirao Flower Farm, often called Cebu’s “Little Amsterdam.” In Moalboal town, you’ll experience the famous sardine run, where thousands of sardines swirl in mesmerizing formations. You’ll also snorkel in a protected marine sanctuary and have the rare opportunity to swim alongside sea turtles.
For the final leg of your 2-week Philippines itinerary, you’ll fly to Boracay Island, where you can explore White Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Spend your days soaking up the sun, strolling along its powdery white sand, and enjoying the warm turquoise waters.
Here, you’ll embark on an island-hopping tour to Puka Beach and Crocodile Island, where you can explore more hidden gems. To top off your experience, enjoy a sunset paraw sailing adventure, gliding across the sea as the sky transforms into stunning shades of orange and pink. It’s the perfect way to end your journey in paradise.
- Day 1: Arrival in Manila City
- Day 2: Arrival in Bohol Island
- Day 3: Tour to Bohol Island's Chocolate Hills & Tarsier Monkey Sanctuary
- Day 4: Free Time
- Day 5: Balicasag Island Hopping Tour
- Day 6: Arrival in Cebu City
- Day 7: Cebu City tour and sightseeing trip to the highlands (inclusing Sirao Flower Farm)
- Day 8: Free Time
- Day 9: Pescador Island Hopping and Sardine Run Tour in Moalboal Town
- Day 10: Free Time
- Day 11: Arrival on Boracay Island
- Day 12: Boracay Island Hopping Tour
- Day 13: Sunset Paraw Sailing around Boracay Island
- Day 14: Checkout and flight back to Manila City
Planning a long trip can be overwhelming, but with a travel package, everything is taken care of—flights, accommodations, transfers, and activities. With tour packages featuring the best 2-week itinerary in the Philippines, you can focus on making memories while experiencing the best of Bohol Island, Cebu Island, and Boracay Island. Skip the hassle of planning every detail and let everything be taken care of.
Best 10-Day Itinerary for the Philippines
With a 10-day trip, you can visit some of the country's most breathtaking destinations. Walk along Boracay Island’s soft, powdery white sand and swim in its crystal-clear waters. Experience the thrill of snorkeling alongside whale sharks in Cebu Island. Explore Puerto Princesa City’s world-famous underground river. Finally, take in the stunning limestone cliffs and ocean views in El Nido town.
You can book this 10-day beach, wildlife, and nature trip package in the Philippines and be whisked off to Boracay Island, Cebu Island, El Nido town, and Puerto Princesa City. This hassle-free package deal includes roundtrip flights from Manila City, accommodations, airport transfers, and three exciting tours, so you can focus on having fun without the stress of planning every detail.
This 10-day itinerary in the Philippines is perfect for those who want to experience picture-perfect beaches, breathtaking nature spots, and unforgettable encounters with marine wildlife.
Your adventure begins in Manila City, where you can opt to take a guided tour of Intramuros Old Town, the historic Spanish-era district. Wander through charming cobblestone streets, visit centuries-old landmarks, and admire well-preserved colonial architecture.
On day two, you’ll fly to the breathtaking Boracay Island, known for its picture-perfect beaches and vibrant island life. Here, you'll hop on a boat tour around Boracay Island to discover hidden coves, swim in turquoise waters, and relax on secluded beaches. Whether you're snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply basking in the sun, every moment here feels like paradise.
Next, you'll head to Cebu Island, where you’ll visit Oslob town, a coastal gem famous for its whale shark encounters. Swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat—an experience you won’t forget. Afterward, explore the island’s stunning waterfalls, historic sites, and delicious local cuisine.
From Cebu Island, you’ll fly to Puerto Princesa City, the gateway to Palawan Island. Here, you’ll take one of the iconic boat tours to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Marvel at its intricate stalactites, vast chambers, and the eerie beauty of this subterranean marvel.
Your final stop is El Nido town. From Puerto Princesa City, enjoy a scenic drive to this coastal paradise, where towering limestone cliffs surround crystal-clear lagoons. You can set out on an island hopping tours around El Nido town to explore secret beaches, hidden caves, and breathtaking marine sanctuaries.
Experience the best of the Philippines with this well-planned 10-day itinerary that takes you to stunning islands, breathtaking natural wonders, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
- Day 1: Arrival in Manila City
- Day 2: Fly to Boracay Island
- Day 3: Embark on one of the best Boracay Island Hopping Tours
- Day 4: Fly to Cebu Island
- Day 5: Whale Shark Watching Tour in Oslob Town on Cebu Island
- Day 6: Fly to Puerto Princesa City
- Day 7: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour
- Day 8: Scenic Car Trip to El Nido Town
- Day 9: Fly Back to Manila City
- Day 10: Relax in Manila City
Explore Philippine tour packages with the best 10-day itinerary that take you to the country’s most spectacular destinations without the hassle of planning. From world-famous white sand beaches to breathtaking natural wonders, everything is arranged for you—flights, accommodations, transfers, and exciting tours. All you have to do is relax, soak in the beauty, and create unforgettable memories.
Best 3-Week Itinerary for the Philippines
With a 3-week trip, you’ll have plenty of time to explore not only the Philippines’ most stunning beaches and islands but also dive into historical sightseeing, cultural immersion, majestic mountain views, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend three weeks in the country, check out this Epic 21-Day Best Beaches, Highlands & Heritage Tour Package in the Philippines. This hassle-free trip package includes roundtrip flights from Manila City, accommodations, airport transfers, and ten guided tours, so you can simply relax and enjoy every moment.
On this ultimate tour around the Philippines, you’ll get to visit cultural and historical sites in Manila City, Vigan City, Laoag City, and Baguio City. Then you’ll head to the countryside and coastal attractions of Bohol Island, explore city highlights and enjoy wildlife snorkeling tours on Cebu Island, and end your trip with scenic nature trips and boat tours in Puerto Princesa City and El Nido town.
This 3-week itinerary in the Philippines is ideal for travelers who want to see the very best of the Philippines—from pristine shores and limestone islands to mountain retreats, cultural gems, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters with marine life.
Your adventure begins in Manila City, particularly in the historic walled district of Intramuros Old Town. Wander through Fort Santiago, the oldest Spanish bastion in the Philippines, and explore Casa Manila, a charming replica of a 19th-century Spanish colonial mansion. Don’t miss Plaza Roma, a peaceful square in front of the Manila Cathedral—a beautiful spot to soak in the old-world charm.
From there, you’ll head to the northern part of Luzon Island to discover more of the country’s rich history. Wander through Vigan City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its cobblestone streets and charming Spanish colonial houses along the iconic Calle Crisologo. You’ll also visit Laoag City to see historic churches and try exciting activities like a 4x4 ride over the fascinating Paoay sand dunes.
Next, enjoy the refreshing climate of Baguio City, known as the country’s summer capital. Here, you’ll visit local cultural landmarks like weaving centers, museums, and even a strawberry farm nestled in the cool highlands—perfect for a relaxing break.
Your trip continues with more nature and island adventures. On Bohol Island, you'll join one of the scenic cruises along the Loboc River, marvel at the iconic Chocolate Hills, and go dolphin-watching around Pamilacan Island. Over on Cebu Island, you'll explore the historic attractions in Cebu City and experience the surreal sight of thousands of sardines in Moalboal town.
To cap it all off, this itinerary takes you to the must-visit places in Palawan Island. Explore the enchanting lagoons through tours around El Nido town, and marvel at the natural wonder of the Palawan Underground River in Puerto Princesa City—another UNESCO World Heritage Site that truly lives up to the hype.
Experience the best cultural and natural attractions of the Philippines with this expertly crafted 3-week itinerary that takes you to stunning islands, breathtaking natural wonders, memorable wildlife encounters, and heritage sites.
- Day 1: Arrival in Manila City
- Day 2: Guided walking tour of Intramuros
- Day 3: Free day (join day tours from Manila City)
- Day 4: Travel to Laoag City and check in
- Day 5: Laoag City heritage tour to Paoay Church, lake, sand dunes
- Day 6: Travel to Vigan City + tour of Vigan City with a horse-drawn carriage ride
- Day 7: Travel to Baguio City
- Day 8: Baguio City cultural tour
- Day 9: Fly to Bohol Island
- Day 10: Bohol Island Countryside tour with a Loboc River cruise
- Day 11: Free day on Bohol Island
- Day 12: Dolphin and turtle watching tour in Pamilacan Island
- Day 13: Ferry to Cebu City + gudied tour around Cebu City
- Day 14: Hop on one of Sardine Run tours in Moalboal town
- Day 15: Travel to Mactan Island
- Day 16: Free day (explore other tours around Mactan Island)
- Day 17: Fly to Puerto Princesa City and check in at hotel
- Day 18: Puerto Princesa Underground River tour
- Day 19: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A to the Best Lagoons & Pristine Beaches
- Day 20: Free day in El Nido
- Day 21: Check out and return to Manila City
Best 1-Month Itinerary for the Philippines
Spending a month in the Philippines is the perfect way to dive deep into the country's incredible beauty and vibrant culture. With over 7,000 islands, you'll have endless opportunities to explore white-sand beaches, unique cultural experiences, breathtaking nature trips, and charming small towns. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful escape, you'll have plenty of time to experience it all at your own pace.
A 1-month trip around the Philippines gives you the luxury of discovering less-popular gems, meeting the locals, and taking in everything from buzzing cities to quiet island retreats. You’ll have plenty of time to slow down, soak up the sun, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you're dreaming of the perfect way to spend 30 days in the country, check out this Ultimate 1-Month Tour Package to the Best Islands & Highlands in the Philippines. With roundtrip flights from Manila City, accommodations, airport transfers, and 14 guided tours and activities, this package provides everything you need for a seamless adventure.
This 30-day itinerary kicks off in Manila City, followed by a journey north to Laoag City in the Ilocos Region, the UNESCO-listed Vigan City, the unique culture of Sagada Town, and the cool mountain air of Baguio City. Then, one-of-a-kind experiences and sights await you on Bohol Island, Cebu Island, and Puerto Princesa City. The final leg of your adventure takes you to the beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes of El Nido town, Boracay Island, and Siargao Island.
Your adventure begins in the vibrant capital city of the Philippines. You'll join one of the top Manila City tours and explore picture-perfect attractions and historic sites. From the modern vibe of Bonifacio Global City to the Church of San Agustin—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest stone church in the Philippines—there’s plenty to discover.
From there, head to the breathtaking vistas of the north; marvel at the Spanish colonial architecture on Vigan City tours, visit the awe-inspiring Kapurpurawan Rock Formations and windmills in Ilocos Norte Province, and explore the cultural spots in Baguio City. You’ll also visit the fascinating attractions of Sagada Town, from the ancient Hanging Coffins to the rock formations of Sumaguing Cave.
Next, get whisked away to Bohol Island, where you can explore the iconic Chocolate Hills, take a scenic cruise down the Loboc River, and visit the Tarsier Monkey Sanctuary. You’ll also enjoy one of the best Bohol island hopping tours, where you can dive into crystal-clear waters and swim alongside vibrant marine life.
Your adventure continues on Cebu Island, where you’ll experience everything from city attractions to thrilling whale shark watching and tours in Oslob town. You’ll even have the chance to snorkel in Cebu Island’s vibrant marine life for a truly unforgettable experience.
After that, you're off to discover the natural wonders of Palawan Island. Explore the must-see attractions in Puerto Princesa City, including the breathtaking Underground River, the longest navigable underground river in the world. Next, you'll tour El Nido town's pristine lagoons and beaches—witness majestic limestone cliffs, mystical lagoons, and powdery white-sand beaches.
You’ll also fly to Boracay Island, where you can enjoy the long stretch of white sand shores, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife at White Beach. Your last stop will be Siargao Island, the surfing capital of the Philippines. Here, you’ll visit top inland attractions and join one of the best Siargao Island hopping tours to cap off your Philippine trip with the ultimate island getaway.
This carefully curated 3-day itinerary takes you from vibrant cities and cool mountain towns to pristine islands and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Day 1: Arrival in Manila City
- Day 2: Tour of top Instagrammable attractions around Manila City
- Day 3: Travel to Laoag City in the Ilocos Region
- Day 4: Ilocos Norte Attractions & Pagudpud Beach Day Tour
- Day 5: Arrival in Vigan City to join one of the best Calle Crisologo tours
- Day 6: Travel to Baguio City
- Day 7: Cultural and outdoor tour in Baguio City
- Day 8: Day tour to Sagada Town from Baguio City
- Day 9: Free day
- Day 10: Return to Manila City + Flight to Bohol Island
- Day 11: Chocolate Hills and countryside tour with Loboc River cruise lunch
- Day 12: Hop on one of the top Balicasag Island tours
- Day 13: Arrival in Cebu City
- Day 14: Cebu City and Highlands tour
- Day 15: Whale Shark Watching in Oslob town + Tour to Sumilon Island and Tumalog Falls
- Day 16: Free day
- Day 17: Arrival in Puerto Princesa City
- Day 18: Puerto Princesa Underground River tour with buffet lunch
- Day 19: Travel to El Nido Town
- Day 20: El Nido island-hopping tour to Big Lagoon and scenic beaches
- Day 21: Free day in El Nido
- Day 22: Fly to Boracay Island
- Day 23: Boracay island hopping and snorkeling tour
- Day 24: Free day to enjoy Boracay Island
- Day 25: Arrival in Siargao Island
- Day 26: Tour of Siargao Island’s top attractions
- Day 27: Free day
- Day 28: Siargao Tri-Island hopping tour
- Day 29: Return to Manila City
- Day 30: Checkout
From cultural treasures to island escapes, this 1-month itinerary lets you experience the very best of the Philippines—leaving you inspired to return for even more adventures.
Best 1-Week Itinerary for the Philippines
Spending one week in the Philippines is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty, rich culture, and easygoing charm of this tropical paradise. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant local traditions, and warm hospitality, a week gives you just enough time to explore the Philippines' top beach destinations and discover some of its most iconic spots.
For an unforgettable getaway, you can book this amazing 1-Week Boracay, Cebu & Siargao Islands Tour Package and enjoy the perfect mix of carefree beach escapes and enriching city and cultural experiences. This hassle-free package includes roundtrip flights, accommodations, airport transfers, and three tours, so you can relax and make the most of your trip without worrying about the details.
In this 1-week Philippines itinerary, you’ll get to experience the best of island life—starting with the laid-back surf scene and clear waters of Siargao Island, then diving into the rich cultural heritage of Cebu Island, and finally, unwinding on the powdery white sands of world-famous Boracay Island.
Your journey begins as you land in Manila City. You can relax at your hotel or explore some of the exciting things to do around Manila City—whether that’s strolling around Intramuros Old Town or sampling delicious Filipino street food.
The next day, you’ll fly to the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, Siargao Island. Here, you’ll join one of the top tours on Siargao Island: an island-hopping adventure to Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. Expect clear blue waters, powdery white sands, and plenty of opportunities to sunbathe, swim, or snorkel in paradise.
Next stop is Cebu Island, where you’ll dive into a meaningful historical and cultural tour. Visit Magellan’s Cross, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño—the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country—and the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, a charming museum that offers a glimpse into early Filipino-Chinese heritage in the province.
Finally, you’ll head to Boracay Island, a small island known for its iconic white-sand beaches and vibrant beach vibe. Go on an island-hopping tour and visit Puka Beach for a relaxing swim, and Crocodile Island for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. You’ll also enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with views of the ocean—perfect for recharging in between stops.
Wrap up your week with sun-kissed memories, cultural discoveries, and the island-hopping adventure of a lifetime. This 1-week trip is the perfect way to get a taste of what makes the Philippines so memorable.
- Day 1: Arrival in Manila City
- Day 2: Arrival on Siargao Island
- Day 3: Siargao Tri-Island Hopping Day Tour
- Day 4: Arrival in Cebu City + City Tour
- Day 5: Arrival on Boracay Island
- Day 6: Boracay Island Hopping Tour
- Day 7: Checkout + Departure
Explore Philippine holiday packages with the best 1-week itinerary that takes you to the country’s most spectacular destinations—without the stress of planning. From world-famous white sand beaches to breathtaking natural wonders, everything is taken care of for you, including flights, accommodations, transfers, and guided tours. All you need to do is show up, soak up the beauty, and enjoy every moment as you create unforgettable memories.
Enjoy a hassle-free getaway with Philippines travel packages with the best itineraries
With so many incredible destinations to explore, you might even want to extend your stay in the Philippines. A 1-week itinerary is just enough for a tropical island getaway, while a month-long adventure lets you experience more of the Philippines' stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and even its underrated destinations.
Since the Philippines is made up of beautiful islands, getting around can take time. Hopping between destinations often means taking flights or ferries, which can use up a good portion of your vacation. To make the most of your trip, consider booking Philippine travel packages that include flights, accommodations, airport transfers, and guided tours—all arranged for your convenience.
Whether you're craving beach escapes, cultural adventures, or a mix of both, there's a perfect itinerary for you. Planning a romantic honeymoon, a fun-filled family getaway, or a solo trip? You’ll find travel packages tailored to your pace and preferences.
Booking a vacation package takes the stress out of planning and often saves you more than arranging everything separately. Once you land, all you need to do is relax and enjoy—your unforgettable Philippine adventure is already set in motion.
Frequently Asked Questions: Itinerary Tips for Your Trip to the Philippines
How many days should I spend in the Philippines?
If you're short on time, 7 days is enough to see some of the country's most iconic spots. But if you want a more in-depth experience, a 2-week or even month-long itinerary gives you the chance to explore beyond the popular beach destinations and discover hidden gems and local culture.
How long can international travelers stay in the Philippines?
Most foreign tourists can stay in the Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay, and you have a return or onward ticket.
Which destinations are best if I just want to relax on the beach and enjoy ocean views?
For a peaceful beach escape, Boracay Island , Siargao Island, and Palawan Island are perfect choices. Both offer postcard-worthy white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back tropical vibe—ideal for unwinding.
Where should I go for exciting water adventures and eco tours?
Consider a Cebu Island-Bohol Island itinerary. In Cebu Island, you can go canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, snorkel with sea turtles, or even swim with whale sharks in Oslob town. Bohol Island is great for river cruises, island hopping tours, and countryside tours to scenic nature spots like the Chocolate Hills and Loboc River.
Which destinations are best for unique cultural experiences?
Head up north to Sagada town and the Buscalan Tattoo Village in the Cordillera Region for an unforgettable cultural adventure. In Buscalan, you can meet the local Kalinga community and even get a traditional tattoo from the legendary Whang-Od.
In Manila City, explore the cobblestone streets of Intramuros Old Town, where Spanish-era architecture and centuries-old churches transport you back in time. Don’t miss a food tour around Binondo District, the world’s oldest Chinatown, where you can taste generations of Chinese-Filipino flavors. For more colonial charm, travel to the Ilocos Region and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through Vigan City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Which destinations are best for island hopping?
If you're craving the ultimate island-hopping adventure, Palawan Island is the perfect place to go. You can book Coron town to El Nido town tours, which take you to the most breathtaking destinations in the country.
In Coron town, visit stunning lagoons like Kayangan Lake, snorkel over vibrant coral gardens, and explore historic shipwreck dive sites. Then head to El Nido town, where island-hopping tours bring you to hidden beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and dramatic limestone cliffs in Bacuit Bay.
Can I book a tour package that combines beach trips, island adventures, water activities, and cultural tours?
Absolutely! A 3-week or month-long itinerary lets you enjoy a perfect mix of beach days, thrilling activities, and cultural discoveries. These longer tours offer a well-balanced experience of everything the Philippines has to offer.
What’s the best itinerary for first-time visitors to the Philippines?
For first-timers, a 1-week tour covering Boracay Island, Cebu Island, and Palawan Island is a great way to experience the best beaches and some top natural attractions. It’s easy to follow and filled with variety.
Is it hard to get around the Philippines?
Traveling between islands usually involves flights or ferries, which can take some time. To save yourself the hassle, consider booking a travel package that includes transportation, accommodations, and guided tours—it’s the easiest way to enjoy your vacation without the stress of planning every leg of the trip.
Can I customize my itinerary in the Philippines?
Yes! Many travel providers offer customizable tours so you can pick destinations and activities that match your interests—whether it's diving, cultural sightseeing, hiking tours, or food trips.
