7-Day Itinerary for the Philippines
You’re in for a great trip through the Philippines. With thousands of islands, rich culture, and warm people, this country is perfect for all kinds of travelers. Here’s a balanced 7-day itinerary to get a good taste of what the Philippines has to offer.
Day 1: Manila – Getting Started
Once you land in Manila, the journey begins. Take it easy—get settled and stretch your legs after your flight.
Start with Intramuros, the historic walled city. This place was built by the Spanish and still holds much of that colonial charm. Walk through Fort Santiago, and visit San Agustin Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the country.
Next, head to Rizal Park. This spot is a favorite for locals, and it’s where the national hero, José Rizal, was executed. It’s a peaceful place to unwind, filled with history.
Wrap up your night in Makati. Bonifacio Global City is filled with restaurants, cafes, and rooftop bars. It’s a more modern side of Manila where you can relax after a day of sightseeing.
Day 2: Manila to Coron – Island Paradise
Catch an early morning flight to Coron. It only takes about an hour from Manila, and you’re in for some of the best natural beauty in the Philippines.
After landing, check into your accommodation. Take the rest of the day to explore Coron Town. Go for a nice walk or grab a cold drink along the seaside boulevard.
Later, you can head to Maquinit Hot Springs. It’s one of the few saltwater hot springs in the world. After a day of traveling, it’s a great way to relax your muscles and take in the forested surroundings.
Where to eat:
For something local, try Lolo Nonoy’s Food Station. It’s a good spot to enjoy home-style Filipino food.
Day 3: Coron Island Hopping and Snorkeling
Join a day tour and experience Coron’s famous lagoons, lakes, and wrecks. Most tours will take you to places like Twin Lagoon, Kayangan Lake, and Siete Pecados snorkel site.
Kayangan Lake is one of the cleanest in Asia. The view from the lookout over the lake is breathtaking. Don’t forget your camera—it’s one of the most photographed spots in the Philippines!
For something unique, check out the Japanese shipwrecks. These sunken WWII wrecks are now home to all kinds of tropical fish. It’s a great spot for both snorkelers and divers.
Day 4: El Nido – More Beach Time
Take the ferry from Coron to El Nido. It’s about a 4-5 hour ride, but you’re rewarded with more stunning beaches.
Once you arrive, take it easy. Go for a swim at Las Cabanas Beach, just a short distance from town. It’s a great place to grab a drink and watch the sunset.
At night, wander around town. Have dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants. Artcafe is a popular spot both for food and general information on El Nido.
Day 5: El Nido Island Hopping
Join another island-hopping tour, but this time in El Nido. There are a few options (Tour A to D) depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for, but Tour A is a good balance for first-timers.
This tour includes the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island. The lagoons are the highlight—with dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, they feel like private natural pools.
Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear. Each island has clear, blue waters full of marine life. It’s a chill day spent swimming and soaking up the sun.
Day 6: Cebu City – A Mix of Culture and History
Fly from El Nido to Cebu, which has more culture and history. Cebu is the oldest city in the Philippines.
Start your day by visiting Magellan’s Cross. This cross was planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan when he first landed in the country. Then, head over to Basilica del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines.
Afterward, take a ride to the Temple of Leah. It’s a huge Roman-inspired temple built by a Cebuano to honor his late wife. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of the city.
End the day with a sunset visit to Tops Lookout. This place sits on a hill overlooking the city, and it’s a perfect spot for taking photos and winding down after a busy day.
Day 7: Cebu to Kawasan Falls – Adventure Day
Save your last full day for some adventure. From Cebu City, it’s about a 3-hour drive south to Kawasan Falls in Badian. It’s one of the most popular waterfalls in the Philippines.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try canyoneering. You’ll hike, swim, and jump through rivers and across rocks. It’s a physical but fun day that ends with a big jump at Kawasan Falls.
For those not keen on canyoneering, you can hike directly to the Falls. The water is blue and crystal-clear, and you can swim right in. It’s a refreshing way to cap off your trip.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day itinerary should give you a balance of culture, history, and adventure. But remember, it’s your trip, so feel free to adjust the pace however it suits you.
The Philippines has so much more to offer than what you’ll experience in one week, but this gives you a solid start. Whether it’s the city vibes of Manila, the quiet beaches of Coron, or the adventurous side of Cebu, you’re bound to have a memorable experience across the islands.
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