14-Day Philippines Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Manila & City Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Manila, check into your hotel, and settle in. Take some time to rest after your journey.

Afternoon: Explore notable sights such as Intramuros and Rizal Park to get a sense of the city's history and culture.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and stroll through the bustling streets of Makati or Bonifacio Global City.

Day 2: Manila to Banaue Rice Terraces

Morning: Travel from Manila to Banaue via private transfer or bus (approx. 9-10 hours). Enjoy scenic views along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive and relax in Banaue, take a short walk around the village.

Evening: Experience local culture and try traditional Cordillera cuisine.

Day 3: Banaue & Hiking the Rice Terraces

Morning: Guided tour of the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Afternoon: Visit nearby villages such as Batad or Sagada for more spectacular views.

Evening: Relax and enjoy local performances or rest at your accommodation.

Day 4: Banaue to Cebu City

Morning: Travel back to Manila and fly to Cebu City (about 1.5 hours flight).

Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro.

Evening: Dinner at a seaside restaurant and walk along the Cebu boardwalk.

Day 5: Moalboal & Sardine Run

Morning: Travel to Moalboal (approx. 2-3 hours), famous for its Sardine Run.

Afternoon: Snorkeling amidst millions of sardines; explore nearby beaches.

Evening: Return to Cebu City or stay overnight in Moalboal.

Day 6: Oslob & Whale Shark Encounter

Morning: Travel to Oslob early and swim with Whale Sharks, an unforgettable experience.

Afternoon: Visit Tumalog Falls and relax in the natural surroundings.

Evening: Return to Cebu City or stay overnight near Oslob.

Day 7: Transfer to Dumaguete & Apo Island

Morning: Fly to Dumaguete (approx. 1 hour). Take a boat trip to Apo Island.

Afternoon: Snorkel or dive at Apo Island’s vibrant reefs.

Evening: Stay overnight on Apo Island or return to Dumaguete.

Day 8: Relax and Explore Dumaguete

Morning: Explore Dumaguete city, visit Silliman University and the local boulevard.

Afternoon: Enjoy local cafes and a relaxed vibe of the city.

Evening: Prepare for onward travel the next day.

Day 9: Travel to Palawan (El Nido or Puerto Princesa)

Morning: Fly from Dumaguete to Palawan, choosing either El Nido or Puerto Princesa.

Afternoon: Arrive and settle into your accommodation.

Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner or explore local markets.

Day 10: Island-Hopping Tour in El Nido / Puerto Princesa

Morning & Afternoon: Full-day island-hopping tour, visiting lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling spots like Small Lagoon and Shimizu Island.

Evening: Relax at your hotel and enjoy a quiet night.

Day 11: Travel to Coron (if in Palawan) & Beach Relaxation

Morning: Take a ferry or flight to Coron for more adventure or relaxation.

Afternoon: Check into your resort and unwind at the beach.

Evening: Optional local dinner or sunset viewing.

Day 12: Coron Wreck & Snorkeling Adventure

Morning & Afternoon: Explore famous WWII wrecks and vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling or diving tours.

Evening: Return to your accommodation and relax.

Day 13: Return to Manila

Morning: Fly back to Manila from Coron or Puerto Princesa.

Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Manila.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 14: Departure

Morning: Depart from Manila, heading home or onward to your next destination.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Manila City Tour & Intramuros: 4 hours; $20
• Transfer to Banaue & Rice Terraces Tour: 2 days; $150
• Flight Manila to Cebu City: 1.5 hours; $50
• Whale Shark Encounter in Oslob: 3 hours; $30
• Apo Island snorkeling tour: 4 hours; $40
• Palawan Island-Hopping Tour: 8 hours; $60
• Coron wreck diving/snorkeling: 6 hours; $70
• Additional transfers, meals, accommodations: estimate total $600
Total Estimated Cost: $1,000 - $1,200

Tips

If you wish to extend your trip, consider adding more island-hopping activities or exploring additional destinations such as Siargao or Bohol. To shorten your stay, focus on key highlights like Cebu and Palawan, and skip some of the longer transfers.