14-Day Itinerary for Exploring the Philippines
The Philippines is an amazing destination with over 7,000 islands waiting to be explored. This two-week itinerary brings together the must-see spots along with hidden gems that will let you immerse yourself in the local culture. You’ll experience breathtaking landscapes, amazing beaches, and vibrant cities—while also having time to relax and absorb the beauty around you.
Day 1: Arrival in Manila
Your adventure starts in Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines. After a long flight, take it easy and walk around intramuros, the historical heart of the city. Explore Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church to get a feel for the country’s colonial past. Grab some local food at Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown. If you’re up for it, cap off the day with sunset views from Baywalk or a fun night out at Poblacion, where you’ll find great food and bars.
Day 2: Day Trip to Taal Volcano
Escape the city with a day trip to Taal Volcano. It’s just an hour or two from Manila, and you can hike up to the crater for stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas. It’s one of the most picturesque volcanoes in the world. After the hike, relax in Tagaytay, a nearby town known for its cool air and great coffee shops.
Day 3: Flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa
Fly to Puerto Princesa on the island of Palawan. This is your gateway to one of the world’s best natural treasures. The first stop is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, also known as the Underground River. It’s one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, and for good reason. A boat tour will take you inside the cave system, where you can marvel at stunning rock formations.
Day 4: Honda Bay Island Hopping
Today, head out for a day of island hopping in Honda Bay. Spend time snorkeling in clear waters, exploring white sand beaches, and meeting locals who live on the islands. Be sure to visit Starfish Island and Luli Island. It’s a relaxing and fun way to soak up some sun and enjoy the natural beauty around you. Don’t forget to pack some sunscreen!
Day 5: Travel to El Nido
Catch a shuttle or van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. The ride takes about 5-6 hours, so get ready for a scenic journey through rural Palawan. Once you arrive in El Nido, check into your accommodation and take a stroll by the beach. You’ll immediately see why El Nido is famous for its beauty. Spend the evening relaxing and catching a beachside sunset.
Day 6: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A
El Nido’s island-hopping tours are legendary, and Tour A is the perfect start. You’ll visit iconic spots like the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon. The dramatic karst cliffs rising from the turquoise waters will leave you speechless. Bring your snorkeling gear, as there will be lots of chances to see colorful coral reefs and vibrant tropical fish.
Day 7: Relax and Explore El Nido Town
After a busy day of island hopping, take it slow. Spend the day walking around El Nido town, visiting local shops, and trying out Filipino meals like lechon or adobo. You can also visit Nacpan Beach, which is a bit more remote and less crowded than the main El Nido beach. If you’re into surfing, Duli Beach is another great option for some waves.
Day 8: Flight from El Nido to Cebu
It’s time to shift islands! Catch a flight to Cebu, the Queen City of the South. Once you arrive, take a stroll down Colon Street for a taste of Cebu’s history. You can visit Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro, or if you’re interested in something more modern, head to Ayala Mall for shopping and dining.
Day 9: Day Trip to Kawasan Falls
Take a day trip to Kawasan Falls, a three-tier waterfall that’s picture-perfect. You can canyoneer your way through the falls or just enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters. It’s a refreshing break from the city, and you’ll feel recharged after spending the day in nature. Don’t forget to try out the bamboo raft experience, where you get showered by a waterfall up close.
Day 10: Oslob Whale Shark Encounter
Wake up early and make your way to Oslob for an unforgettable experience swimming with whale sharks. It might feel a bit touristy, but it’s still an awe-inspiring encounter. You can snorkel alongside these gentle giants. Afterward, you can visit Tumalog Falls for a quick dip before heading back to Cebu City. If you have the energy, explore the local markets and grab some dried mangoes to take home.
Day 11: Ferry to Bohol and Visit Chocolate Hills
Hop on a ferry from Cebu to Bohol, an island known for its unique landscapes. Your first stop should be the Chocolate Hills. These strange, grassy hills turn brown during the dry season, making them look like giant chocolate mounds. It’s a fascinating sight. Don’t miss the Tarsier Sanctuary either, where you can see the world’s smallest primates in their natural habitat.
Day 12: Bohol Countryside Tour
Explore more of what Bohol has to offer. Visit the Loboc River for a leisurely lunch cruise surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, check out the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swing by the man-made forest or take a quick ride on the Loboc Eco Adventure Park’s zipline. It’s a fantastic way to get a bird’s eye view of the forests and rivers below you.
Day 13: Relax on Panglao Island
Panglao Island, connected to Bohol by a small bridge, is where you’ll find some of the best beaches in the region. Spend your day here, relaxing on Alona Beach or going for a dive if you’re into scuba diving. It’s a great way to unwind after days of adventure. Enjoy the calm waters, fresh coconut drinks, and white sand before your trip winds down.
Day 14: Return to Manila and Depart
Your two-week adventure ends with a flight back to Manila. If you’ve got time before your international flight, squeeze in some last-minute shopping at Greenbelt or enjoy one last Filipino meal. Don’t worry; you’ll be taking home incredible memories (and maybe a new love for adobo)!
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