Philippines

Philippines: general info for travelers

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country composed of thousands of islands. It is known for its diverse culture, vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and tropical climate. Some popular tourist destinations in the Philippines include Boracay Island, Palawan, Cebu, and Manila. The country is also home to several breathtaking natural wonders, such as the Chocolate Hills, Tubbataha Reef, and Mayon Volcano. Filipino cuisine is also unique and delicious, with influences from Chinese, Spanish, and Malay cuisines. Overall, the Philippines offers visitors a wonderful blend of natural beauty, diverse cultures, and warm hospitality.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Philippines, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Philippines: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the top places to visit in the Philippines: 1. Boracay Island - This small island in the Western Visayas region is famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Boracay is a great destination for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and partygoers.
2. Palawan Island - Palawan is often called the last ecological frontier of the Philippines. It is home to stunning limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, and secluded beaches. Palawan is a perfect place for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who seek relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
3. Batanes Islands - Located at the northernmost part of the Philippines, Batanes is a group of islands known for its picturesque scenery, unique culture, and ancient settlements. It is an excellent destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the traditional way of life of the Ivatans, who have preserved their cultural heritage for centuries.
4. Bohol Island - Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills, a group of more than 1,200 cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, giving them their name. The island also boasts of pristine beaches, lush forests, and the Tarsier Sanctuary - a haven for the world's smallest primate.
5. Cebu City - This bustling metropolis is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. It is a melting pot of different cultures and religions, and it is home to numerous historical landmarks and vibrant night markets. Cebu is also a gateway to several beautiful islands nearby, such as Mactan Island and Sumilon Island.
These are just some of the top places to visit in the Philippines. Each destination offers its unique charm, culture, and natural wonders that are sure to captivate any traveler.
There is more to see and do in Philippines: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Philippines: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Philippines, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
The weather in the Philippines can be divided into two seasons - the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season typically starts from November to April, while the rainy season runs from May to October. The best time to visit the Philippines for a holiday is during the dry season when there is little to no rainfall, and the weather is generally more comfortable. The peak tourist season in the Philippines is from December to February, which is considered the coolest time of the year. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, visiting in March to May is also an excellent option as the weather is still dry. It is worth noting that the months of June to August are part of the rainy season, so visitors should expect heavy rains and occasional typhoons. Still, some areas in the Philippines, like Palawan and Boracay, are still relatively dry during this time.

Philippines: activities and what to do

There are many activities and sports that you can enjoy on holiday in the Philippines. Here are some popular options: 1. Scuba diving and snorkeling: The Philippines is known for its beautiful waters and coral reefs, making it a great destination for diving and snorkeling.
2. Island hopping: With over 7,000 islands, island hopping is a popular activity in the Philippines. You can explore beautiful beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters.
3. Surfing: The Philippines has some great surf spots, especially in places like Siargao and La Union.
4. Hiking: There are many beautiful hiking trails in the Philippines, including the world-famous Mount Pulag in Benguet.
5. Kayaking or paddleboarding: You can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of the islands.
6. Zip-lining: There are several zip-line attractions in the Philippines, including the famous Dahilayan Zip-line in Bukidnon.
7. Snorkeling with whale sharks: The Philippines is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with gentle whale sharks.
8. Visiting waterfalls: The Philippines has many beautiful waterfalls to visit, including the popular Kawasan Falls in Cebu and the Tappiya Falls in Batad.
9. Paragliding: You can go paragliding in several places in the Philippines, including Sarangani and Carmona. These are just some of the many activities and sports you can do in the Philippines.

Philippines: few words on history and culture

The Philippines has a rich history and diverse culture. The country was colonized by different countries like Spain, America, and Japan, which have all left their mark on the country's culture and traditions.
The Philippines is known for its vibrant festivals, colorful dances, and delicious cuisine. It is also home to the Batad Rice Terraces in Ifugao, which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
One unique aspect of the Philippine culture is the concept of "bayanihan," which means helping one another in times of need. Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality, strong family ties, and love for music and karaoke. Religion plays a significant role in the culture, with the majority of the population being Roman Catholic.
Overall, the Philippines is a fascinating destination that can offer visitors a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Philippines: how to move around on holiday

The Philippines has many options for transportation, depending on your location and budget. If you are traveling internationally and coming from another country, the most common way to enter the Philippines is to fly into Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). From there, you can take a taxi, ride-share, or private car rental to get to your desired destinations.
Within the Philippines, there are several means of transport: - Jeepneys - colorful, open-air, and iconic vehicles for public transportation in the Philippines. They are a cheap and fun way to get around major cities, and can also be used to travel to nearby towns and cities.
- Buses - offer a more comfortable and air-conditioned option for longer journeys, and are priced reasonably.
- Tricycles - a motorbike with a sidecar attached, providing affordable transport for distances where cars are not necessary.
- Taxis and Ride-sharing apps such as Grab can offer a more private and comfortable alternative, but can be a bit more expensive.
- Ferries and boats - a popular mode of transport to reach islands and coastal towns. These can range in size, from small boats to large ferries.
Overall, the best means of transportation in the Philippines will depend on your itinerary, budget, and travel preferences. To hire a car to visit Philippines, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Philippines: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Philippines with a full stomach:D
Philippines has a rich and diverse cuisine that reflects its history and cultural influences. Some of the typical foods of Philippines are: 1. Adobo - a classic Filipino dish which combines soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and various spices to marinate meat, typically chicken or pork. The meat is then browned and cooked in the marinade until tender and flavor-packed.
2. Sinigang - a sour soup dish made with tamarind, tomatoes, onions, and various meats such as pork, beef, or fish. It's a comfort food that's very popular in the Philippines.
3. Lechon - a roasted suckling pig often served at special occasions and festivities. The pork is cooked over an open flame until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy.
4. Lumpia - Filipino version of spring rolls that's stuffed with vegetables, meats, or even fruits. The filling is rolled up in a thin wrapper that's fried until crispy.
5. Kare-Kare - a stew made with peanut-based sauce, oxtail, vegetables, and annatto seeds. It's often served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) as a condiment.
6. Pancit - a noodle dish that's made with rice noodles, meats, vegetables, and a soy-based sauce. It's typically served during special occasions and has different variations depending on the region.
7. Halo-halo - a popular Filipino dessert that literally means "mix-mix". It's a combination of shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, jellies, milk, and sometimes ice cream.

Philippines: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

The cost of traveling in the Philippines can vary depending on your travel style and itinerary. Accommodation and food can be relatively inexpensive in the Philippines, but expenses such as transportation and attractions can add up. Overall, the Philippines is considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists compared to other popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. However, it's always a good idea to research and plan a budget in advance to make sure you have enough funds for your trip.

Philippines: where to find accodation

There are several ways to look for accommodation in the Philippines. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Online booking platforms - Websites such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Airbnb offer a wide range of accommodation options across the country.
2. Local travel agencies - Local travel agencies can also help book accommodation as part of a tour package or independently. 3. Direct booking with hotels or resorts - Often, hotels and resorts in the Philippines have their own websites where you can book directly. 4. Hostels or backpacker lodges - For budget travelers, hostels or backpacker lodges are a great option. Websites like Hostelworld.com and Hostelbookers.com offer a list of affordable accommodations.
5. Social media groups - There are many Facebook groups for travelers in the Philippines where locals and foreigners offer their homes or spare rooms for rent. I recommend researching, comparing options, and reading reviews before booking any accommodation to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in the Philippines.
You can check hotel prices in Philippines here:
Booking.com

Philippines: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, the country received over 7 million tourist arrivals in 2019. However, due to the current global situation, the arrivals have decreased significantly in 2020.
Yes, there are some periods in the year that are more crowded than others. For example, the Christmas and New Year holidays, Holy Week (Easter), and the summer months of April and May are usually the peak tourist season in the Philippines. During these periods, it may be more challenging to find accommodation and book tours and activities, and prices may be higher than usual.
Generally speaking, the Philippines is a safe country for tourists. However, like in any country, there are certain areas that should be avoided or approached with caution. Some areas to avoid due to safety concerns include the southern islands of Mindanao, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, which have a high risk of terrorist activity, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. Other regions that have high crime rates include parts of Metro Manila, particularly certain areas of Quezon City and Pasay City.
That being said, there are plenty of safe and enjoyable areas to visit in the Philippines, including popular tourist destinations such as Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu. It's important to exercise common sense safety practices, such as staying aware of your surroundings, not flashing valuables, and avoiding going out alone at night. Additionally, it's always a good idea to check travel advisories and do your research before visiting any new destination.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Philippines on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Philippines: events for tourists

Philippines has a lot of interesting events that tourists can enjoy. Here are some of the most popular events: 1. Sinulog Festival - This festival held in Cebu City every January is one of the country's largest and most colorful. It honors the Sto. Nino, a miraculous image of the infant Jesus.
2. Ati-Atihan Festival - This festival held in Aklan every January is the mother of all Philippine festivals. Celebrants paint their faces black and wear tribal costumes and dance in the streets to the beat of drums.
3. MassKara Festival - This festival held in Bacolod every October is a celebration of Bacolod's resilience in the face of disaster. It's known for its colorful masks and street parades.
4. Dinagyang Festival - This festival held in Iloilo every January is a religious festival that celebrates the Santo Nino. Participants wear colorful costumes and masks while dancing in the street to the rhythm of drums.
5. Pahiyas Festival - This festival held in Lucban, Quezon every May is a celebration of the town's bountiful harvest. Homes are adorned with colorful decorations made from fresh fruits and vegetables.
These are just some of the many events that tourists can attend in Philippines.

Philippines: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Philippines, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting the Philippines: Day 1-3: Manila - Explore the capital city's landmarks such as Intramuros, Fort Santiago, and Rizal Park - Visit its museums, such as the National Museum of Anthropology and the Ayala Museum - Try authentic Filipino cuisine in Binondo or in Mercato Centrale Day 4-5: Palawan - Visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World - Have a relaxing day on Honda Bay island hopping - Stroll around El Nido's beaches or try island hopping Day 6-8: Cebu - Enjoy Cebu's white sand beaches and crystal clear waters in Mactan Island - Visit Magellan's Cross and Basilica Minore del Santo Nino in the city center - Visit Osmeña Peak, Sirao Flower Farm or trek to Kawasan Falls Day 9-10: Bohol - Admire the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation comprised of more than 1,200 hills - See the world's smallest primates called Tarsiers in the Tarsier Conservation Area - Cruise along the Loboc River and have lunch at a floating restaurant Day 11-12: Siargao - Surf in Cloud 9, a world-renowned surfing spot - Swim with stingless jellyfish in the Sohoton Cove - Visit the Sugba Lagoon or go island hopping in Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island Day 13-14: Boracay - Enjoy Boracay's stunning white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife and scenic views - Try water sports such as parasailing, helmet diving or fly boarding - Witness the famous sunset at Boracay's Station 1 This itinerary will give you a glimpse of the country's diverse culture, breathtaking nature and pristine beaches. Don't forget to sample delicious Filipino food and interact with the friendly locals along the way!

Philippines: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Philippines described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aklan is a province located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. Its capital is the town of Kalibo, which is known for its Ati-Atihan festival. Aklan is also the gateway to the famous Bor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aklan
- Albay is a province located in the Bicol region of the Philippines. It is known for its scenic beauty, particularly the Mayon Volcano, which is considered to be one of the most active and picturesque ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Albay
- Angeles City is a highly urbanized city located in the Central Luzon region of the Philippines. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and historical landmarks. The city was greatly af... CONTINUE here for a trip to Angeles City
- Apo Island is a small, volcanic island located in the province of Negros Oriental in the Philippines. It is approximately 7 kilometers off the southeastern tip of Negros Island and is known for its pr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Apo Island
- Baguio City is a highly urbanized mountain resort city located in the northern part of the Philippines. It is nicknamed the "City of Pines" due to its pine tree forests and cool climate. Baguio City s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baguio City
- Baler is a municipality located on the east coast of the province of Aurora in the Philippines. It's known for its beautiful beaches which is perfect for surfing, particularly Sabang Beach. The area i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baler
- Banaue is a municipality located in the province of Ifugao, in the northern part of the Philippines. It is famous for its world-renowned rice terraces, which were built by the Ifugao tribes over 2,000... CONTINUE here for a trip to Banaue
- Bantayan Island is a small island located in the province of Cebu in the Philippines. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. The island is popular wit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bantayan Island
- Batanes is a group of islands located in the northernmost region of the Philippines. It is the smallest province in terms of both land area and population, and is known for its stunning landscapes, cl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Batanes
- Batangas is a province located in the southern part of Luzon island in the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful beaches, magnificent mountains, and rich history and culture. The province is also... CONTINUE here for a trip to Batangas
- The Chocolate Hills are a geological formation located in the island of Bohol, Philippines. It is a collection of more than 1,000 hills spread across an area of 50 square kilometers. The hills are con... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bohol Chocolate Hills
- Bohol is an island province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural attractions. Among the most... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bohol
- Boracay is a small island located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It's famous for its beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife scene. The island is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boracay
- Cagayan de Oro is a city located in the Northern Mindanao region of the Philippines. It is known as the "City of Golden Friendship" due to the friendly nature of its citizens. The city is home to vari... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cagayan de Oro
- Calaguas is a group of islands located in the province of Camarines Norte in the Philippines. It is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and tranquil environment. The most ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Calaguas
- Calamian Islands is a group of islands located in the northern part of Palawan province in the Philippines. The main islands are Busuanga, Coron, and Culion, which are known for their beautiful landsc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Calamian Islands
- Camiguin is a small island province located in the northern part of Mindanao in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with attractions such as hot springs, waterfalls, and whit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Camiguin
- Caramoan is a municipality located in the province of Camarines Sur, Philippines. It consists of a group of islands and islets dotting the waters of the Maqueda Channel and covers an area of approxima... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caramoan
- Cebu City is a highly urbanized city located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is the second-largest city in the Philippines and the oldest city in the country, known for its rich h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cebu City
- Coron is a municipality in the province of Palawan, located in the northern part of the island. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich mari... CONTINUE here for a trip to Coron
- Davao City is the largest city on the Island of Mindanao in the Philippines, located in the southern part of the archipelago. It is a highly urbanized city and serves as the center of trade, commerce,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Davao City
- Davao del Sur is a province located in the southern part of the Philippines. The province is known for its natural beauty and rich culture. It is the second largest of the four provinces in the Davao ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Davao del Sur
- Donsol is a destination located in the province of Sorsogon, Philippines. This small town is famous for its whale shark sightings in the waters surrounding it. The whale sharks are often spotted from ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Donsol
- Dumaguete is a small city located in the Negros Oriental province of the Philippines. It is known as the "City of Gentle People" due to the friendly and welcoming nature of its locals. Dumaguete is a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dumaguete
- El Nido is a small town located in the northern part of Palawan island in the Philippines. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, limestone cliffs, and diverse marine life. El Nido... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Nido
- Ilocos Norte is a province located in the northern part of the Philippines. It's known for its beautiful natural attractions and rich cultural heritage. Some of the popular destinations in Ilocos Nort... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ilocos Norte
- Iloilo City is a highly urbanized city located in the province of Iloilo, Philippines. It is known for its rich history and culture, beautiful old architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festival... CONTINUE here for a trip to Iloilo City
- Kalanggaman Island is a stunning tropical paradise located in Leyte, Philippines. The island features powdery white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and vivid marine life that draw visito... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalanggaman Island
- La Union is a province located on the northern coast of the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and rich culture and history. The province is divided into 19 municipalit... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Union
- Malapascua Island is a small island located in the northernmost region of Cebu province in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popula... CONTINUE here for a trip to Malapascua Island
- Manila is the capital and one of the largest cities in the Philippines, located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay. It has a rich history, having been occupied by various colonial powers throughout it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Manila
- Marinduque is an island province located in the Southern Tagalog Region of the Philippines. It is known for its rich culture, panoramic landscapes, and pristine beaches. The island is relatively small... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marinduque
- Masbate is a province located in the Bicol Region of the Philippines. It consists of three major islands - Masbate, Ticao, and Burias - and a number of smaller islets. The province is known for its ri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Masbate
- Negros Occidental is a province located in the western part of the island of Negros in the Philippines. Known for its sugar cane plantations, it is often referred to as the "Sugar Bowl of the Philippi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Negros Occidental
- Palawan is a province located in the Philippines, known for its stunning natural scenery and diverse wildlife. It is made up of several islands, including the main island of Palawan and smaller ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palawan
- Pampanga is a province located in the central part of Luzon Island in the Philippines. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and beautiful natural landscapes. The capital city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pampanga
- Panglao Island is a popular tropical paradise located in the Bohol province of the Philippines. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning coral reef... CONTINUE here for a trip to Panglao Island
- Puerto Princesa is a city located in the western Philippines on the island of Palawan. It is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life. The city is als... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Princesa
- Sagada is a small town located in the mountain province of the Philippines. It is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, including rice terraces, caves, waterfalls, and mountains. Sagada is also ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sagada
- Samal Island is a picturesque tropical island destination located in the Davao Gulf, Philippines. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life. The island is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samal Island
- Siargao is a beautiful island located in the province of Surigao del Norte, Philippines. It's known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines" for its world-class surfing spots. The island has a laid... CONTINUE here for a trip to Siargao
- Sienna is a small village in the municipality of Taal, Batangas, Philippines. Sienna is known for its historica... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sienna
- Siquijor is a small province in the Philippines located in the Central Visayas region. It is known for its stunning beaches, natural attractions, and traditional folk healers. Siquijor Island, the lar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Siquijor
- Subic is a town located on the west coast of the island of Luzon in the Philippines. It is known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and exciting water sports activities. Subic is also home to the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Subic
- Surigao del Norte is a province located in the northeastern part of the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. It is composed of several islands, including Siargao, which is a popular tourist destinat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Surigao del Norte
- Tacloban is the capital city of the province of Leyte, located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It is nestled along the eastern coast of the island of Leyte, facing the Philippine Sea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tacloban
- Tagaytay is a popular tourist destination located in the province of Cavite in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano, as well as its cool climate, making it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tagaytay
- Vigan is a historic city located in the province of Ilocos Sur, Philippines. It is famous for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vigan
- Zambales is a province located in the central part of the Philippines, on the western coast of the island of Luzon. It is known for its scenic beaches, clear blue waters, and beautiful mountain ranges... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zambales


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