Philippines Travel Guide: Highlights, Itinerary & Travel Tips
Mabuhay! Welcome to the archipelago of 7,641 islands. In this Philippines travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan a dream trip — including the hidden lagoons of El Nido, the chocolate hills of Bohol, and the world-class surf of Siargao.
The Philippines is a tropical paradise like no other. While neighboring countries are known for temples, the Philippines is all about the water. It has the clearest lagoons, the most diverse marine life, and the friendliest locals you will ever meet. Whether you're diving into WWII shipwrecks or riding a scooter through palm-fringed roads, the "Pinoy" vibe will capture your heart.
I’ve been to the Philippines twice, and honestly, the hardest part is leaving. The landscapes in Palawan look like they are from another planet, and the "island life" in places like Siargao is so addictive you might just miss your flight home!
Best Time to Visit the Philippines
The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season, from December to April.
- Amihan Season (Nov-May): Cool, dry northeasterly winds. Perfect for island hopping!
- Peak Sun (March-May): The hottest months (30–35°C). Ideal for diving and beach days.
- Surfing Season: If you're heading to Siargao, August to November is peak swell season.
The rainy season (June–October) brings the "Habagat" monsoon. While travel is still possible, typhoons are more common during these months, which can lead to cancelled flights and ferries. Always check the weather forecast!
Entry Requirements (2026)
- A valid passport (at least 6 months validity).
- eTravel Registration: You must register at etravel.gov.ph before arrival (replaces the old paper cards).
- Visa-free entry for up to 30 days for many nationalities (can be extended locally).
- Proof of onward/return travel is strictly required at check-in.
Getting Around the Philippines
- Domestic Flights: Cebu Pacific and AirSwift (for El Nido) are your best friends. Book in advance!
- Ferries: High-speed ferries (like OceanJet) connect islands like Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor.
- Tricycles & Jeepneys: The classic local way to get around towns.
- Scooter Rental: The best way to explore islands like Siargao, Bohol, and Siquijor ($8–$12 per day).
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| Scooter on the Philippines |
My Ultimate Philippines Route
This itinerary covers the "Big Three" regions: Luzon, Palawan, and the Visayas.
- Manila – The chaotic, historic capital
- Palawan (Port Barton & El Nido) – The crown jewel of the Philippines
- Coron – World-class diving and limestone lagoons
- Cebu & Moalboal – Canyoneering and the famous sardine run
- Siquijor – The mystical "Island of Fire"
- Bohol – Tarsiers and the Chocolate Hills
- Bantayan Island – Pure white sand and chill vibes
- Siargao – The surfing capital of Asia
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| Port Barton |
Philippines Highlights & Experiences
Manila – The Great Start
Most international flights land here. Give it a day before heading to the islands.
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| Manila |
- Explore the Spanish colonial walled city of Intramuros.
- Eat your way through Binondo, the world's oldest Chinatown.
Palawan – Port Barton & El Nido
Palawan is consistently voted the best island in the world for a reason. When you fly to Palawan you can just take a shuttle service from the airport to Part Barton, it's around 3 hours.
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| Port Barton |
- Port Barton: The quieter, laid-back version of El Nido. Great for "turtle spotting" tours. It's less touristy than El Nido and with Siargao my favourite place in the Philippines!
- El Nido: Take Tour A or C to see the Big Lagoon and Secret Beach. The limestone cliffs are breathtaking. El Nido is very crowded and touristy.
- Expedition Boat: Take a 3-4 day boat expedition between El Nido and Coron for the ultimate "castaway" experience.
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| El Nido |
Coron – Diving & Shipwrecks
If you like being underwater, Coron is your paradise.
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| Coron |
- Wreck Diving: Explore massive Japanese WWII shipwrecks. Even snorkelers can see some of them!
- Kayangan Lake: Often called the cleanest lake in Asia with stunning underwater rock formations.
- Barracuda Lake: A unique dive where you experience a "thermocline" (the water gets hot as you go deeper!).
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| Coron |
Cebu, Moalboal & Bantayan
Cebu is the hub of the Visayas and full of adventure.
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| Bantayan Island |
- Moalboal: Just a few meters off the shore, you can swim with millions of sardines and sea turtles.
- Kawasan Falls: Go canyoneering—jumping off cliffs into turquoise Gatorade-blue water!
- Bantayan Island: A hidden gem north of Cebu. It’s flat, easy to scooter, and has the best white sand beaches.
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| Kawasan Falls |
Siquijor & Bohol
These two islands are perfect to combine via ferry.
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| Me with a puppy on Siquijor |
- Siquijor: Visit the Cambugahay Falls (the rope swing is a must!) and see the 400-year-old Enchanted Balete Tree.
- Bohol: See the 1,268 Chocolate Hills and look for the tiny, big-eyed Tarsiers (the world's smallest primates).
Siargao – The Best Island Vibe
Siargao is more than just surfing; it’s a lifestyle. Best way to get to Siargao is to take a flight from Cebu.
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| Siargao |
- Cloud 9: Walk the iconic boardwalk at sunrise or catch a wave at the most famous surf break.
- Island Hopping: Visit Guyam, Daku, and Naked Island.
- Sugba Lagoon: Rent a paddleboard in a bright blue lagoon surrounded by mangroves.
- Rent a scooter: And explore the island.
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| Siargao |
Cost of Traveling in the Philippines
- Dorm Bed: $10–$20 / Private Room: $35–$70
- Local Meal (Adobo/Lechon): $3–$6
- Island Hopping Tour: $25–$45 (usually includes a massive BBQ lunch!)
Tip: Cash is king! ATMs can be unreliable on smaller islands like Siargao or Port Barton. Always carry enough Pesos (PHP) to last a few days.
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| Sea Life |
Final Thoughts on Philippines Travel
The Philippines is raw, beautiful, and endlessly adventurous. It requires a bit more planning and patience with ferries and flights, but the reward is a slice of paradise that feels untouched by the modern world.
The amount of islands and the beauty of it is crazy. The food isn't the best, but the nature and the people make it unforgettable!
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