Start your adventure in Manila's historic walled city, Intramuros. Built in the 16th century, the area features colonial architecture, ancient walls, and fortifications. Don't forget to visit Fort Santiago, a citadel where national hero Jose Rizal was jailed before his execution. Grab some street food at the marketplaces lining the streets before heading to your next destination.
Take a flight to Bohol to see the iconic Chocolate Hills, a geological formation consisting of over 1200 hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling giant chocolate drops. At the nearby Tarsier Conservation Area, you can observe one of the smallest primates in the world. End the day with a relaxing river cruise on the Loboc River surrounded by lush green scenery.
Travel to El Nido, Palawan, to visit the breathtakingly beautiful Bacuit Bay. Join a guided island-hopping tour to explore uninhabited islands, white sandy beaches, secret lagoons, and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Don't miss the chance to swim in Big Lagoon's crystal-clear water and climb the trampoline hanging from the cliffs for an unforgettable experience.
Take a flight to Legazpi, Albay, to see Mayon, the Philippines' most active volcano, known for its almost perfect cone shape. Marvel at the stunning view from Ligñon Hill Nature Park or Legazpi Boulevard, and explore the Cagsawa Ruins, the remains of a 17th-century church destroyed by a 19th-century eruption. Try eating Bicol's famous spicy dishes before leaving.
End the trip with an adventure at Pagsanjan Falls, one of the Philippines' most famous waterfalls. Take a thrilling ride on a canoe upstream, then experience the waterfall's power by taking a bamboo raft underneath it. Relax in the water's cool mist and enjoy the lush greenery surrounding the falls. Don't forget to taste Laguna's native delicacies such as buko pie and ube halaya before the trip ends.
Major cities in the Philippines are well-connected, but travel times can be long due to the country's geography. Domestic flights are the most comfortable and fastest way to travel between islands. Public transportation, such as buses and jeepneys, are the most economical options and offer a chance to experience local culture. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but can get expensive during peak hours. Estimated travel cost is around PHP 10,000.
If you have more time, consider visiting other popular destinations, such as Batanes, Siargao Island, or the Banaue Rice Terraces. If you have less time, skip Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins and leave it for another trip, or replace it with a relaxing beach day in Boracay or Puerto Galera. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, bug spray, and comfortable shoes for walking or hiking.
The main international airports in the Philippines are Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila and Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) in Cebu. Other major airports include Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) in Bohol, Legazpi International Airport (LGP) in Albay, and Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) in Palawan. Ninoy Aquino International Airport is located 7 km south of Manila and offers multiple domestic and international flights.