Since you arrive today and it's already mid-morning, start at Ninoy Aquino International Airport for a smooth immigration and baggage recovery, then grab a local SIM and cash at the airport's service counters. Head into the city to drop bags at a centrally located hotel, then stretch your legs with a relaxed stroll through Ayala Triangle Gardens, stopping for a coffee at a nearby café and checking logistics (flight confirmations, transfers to Puerto Princesa) for tomorrow.
After a relaxed morning, head to Intramuros to wander cobblestone streets and visit Fort Santiago for a brief, atmospheric history immersion; stop at a callejón café for a late lunch of adobo or sinigang. Later, take a short Tuk-Tuk or Grab ride to Rizal Park for a gentle stroll and sunset views, then pop into Manila Baywalk for seaside people-watching while confirming tomorrow's early transfer to Puerto Princesa.
As the city lights come alive, enjoy a relaxed dinner at Binondo's Chinatown, sampling pancit and lumpia along Ongpin Street while ducking into a classic tea house for dessert; the neighborhood's bustling night market vibe is lively but easygoing after travel. After dinner, unwind with a cocktail or fresh coconut at The Bayleaf's rooftop, where sweeping views of the illuminated Intramuros and Manila skyline help you finalize tomorrow's early transfer to Puerto Princesa and pack for your flight.
Catch an early flight into Puerto Princesa International Airport, then head straight to Roxas Boulevard (Puerto Princesa Bay area) for a breezy breakfast at a seaside café and to stretch after travel. After breakfast, meet your guide and transfer north toward Sabang Beach to board the small boat that will take you to the entrance of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, where a guided paddle through the dramatic limestone cave system reveals stalactites, stalagmites, and bats-arrive early to avoid crowds and maximize daylight for optional mangrove-side birdwatching afterward.
After the morning cave tour, relax with a fresh seafood lunch at KaLui Restaurant, sampling grilled tuna and kinilaw while soaking up the bohemian atmosphere; afterwards wander the colorful stalls of Puerto Princesa Baywalk Park for souvenir crafts and local snacks. Later, take a short drive to Mitchell's Place for a chilled coconut shake and sunset views, then explore the mangrove-fringed Iwahig River on a late-afternoon paddle or wildlife-spotting boat tour before returning to town for dinner.
After a day of caves and mangroves, settle into a relaxed evening at Kabankalan Beach Club for sunset cocktails and live acoustic music, followed by a seafood-forward dinner at La Terrasse Seafood Restaurant where you can try freshly grilled lapu-lapu and seafood kare-kare. Later, take a moonlit stroll along Baywalk Park's quieter stretches toward Rizal Avenue, stopping at a local kiosk for sweet kapeng barako or halo-halo before returning to your hotel to rest up for tomorrow's transfer north.
After an early transfer from Puerto Princesa, arrive at Busuanga Airport and take a short van ride to Coron town for a hearty breakfast at La Sirenetta Restaurant & Bar before boarding your boat; pick up snorkel gear from Coron Divers if you didn't bring your own. Spend the morning on a guided island-hopping loop that includes snorkeling over the shallow reefs of CYC Beach and a photo stop at the dramatic limestone cliffs of Atwayan Beach, finishing with a picnic lunch on the white sands of Smith Beach before heading back to town to rest and prepare for afternoon wreck dives.
After a restful return to town, head back out on a private banca to explore the southern lagoon complex, beginning with a shallow snorkel at Barracuda Lake's surreal thermocline and limestone walls, then paddle into the emerald pools of Twin Lagoon for a photo-worthy swim through the narrow rock crevice. In the late afternoon, cruise to Banol Beach for golden-hour relaxation and cliffside views, followed by a sunset seafood barbecue on the sand where local fishermen grill fresh tuna and prawns while you swap tales from the day's dives.
As the sun dips, head to Coron Town Proper and stroll the waterfront to watch local boats return, then enjoy fresh grilled seafood at Kawayanan Grill while sampling an ice-cold San Miguel. After dinner, take a short tricycle ride to Mt. Tapyas Viewpoint for a twilight climb and panoramic island-lit views, finishing with a chilled mango shake at a nearby seaside kiosk before retiring to your guesthouse.
Board the early bangka or shared van from Coron Pier and enjoy coastal views en route to El Nido Port, arriving in time for a leisurely breakfast at Altrove El Nido or a beachfront café on Corong-Corong Beach. After dropping bags at your accommodation, spend a relaxed morning snorkeling from Las Cabanas Beach's shallow reefs or renting a kayak to paddle toward the dramatic limestone islets off Seven Commandos Beach, then cool off with a fresh buko (young coconut) and prepare for an afternoon island-hopping tour.
After settling in, head to Nacpan Beach for a late-afternoon stretch along its long golden shoreline and a swim in the clear, gently rolling surf; rent a motorbike or arrange a tricycle transfer to explore the twin beaches and climb the short viewpoint for sweeping coastal photos. Later, stop at Duli Beach for a quieter sunset surf session or simply relax with a fresh coconut from a beachside shack before returning to town for dinner.
As twilight falls, wander down to Corong-Corong Beachfront for a laid-back dinner at a seaside grill where you can feast on grilled squid and kinilaw while watching traditional bancas bob against the sunset. Afterwards, take a short walk to El Nido Night Market to sample local snacks like skewered seafood and turmeric cakes, then finish the evening with a chilled drink at Pukka Bar or a low-key cocktail bar along the main strip while planning tomorrow's island-hopping route.
Rise early for a glorious boat departure toward Small Lagoon where you can kayak through a narrow limestone entrance into mirror-still waters and snorkel among garden-variety reef fish; follow with a guided glass-bottom boat stop at Shimizu Island to spot colorful corals and playful clownfish in shallow patches. Afterward, beach-hop to the sheltered cove of Entalula Island for a beachfront picnic of fresh grilled fish and coconut rice, then stroll its powdery sand before returning to El Nido town to relax and prep for the afternoon's Big Lagoon exploration.
After a morning in Small Lagoon and Shimizu, spend the afternoon exploring Big Lagoon's outer reaches by stand-up paddleboard or a guided swim toward its turquoise shallows, then glide to Matinloc Shrine to climb the short viewpoint for sweeping reef-and-islet panoramas. Continue with a leisurely snorkel at Dilumacad (Helicopter) Island to spot sea turtles and coral gardens, finish with a sunset drink at the clifftop deck of Hama Restaurant & Bar back in town to swap photos from the day's explorations.
After a day on the water, slip into a relaxed beachfront evening at Las Cabanas Sunset Bar, where you can watch the sky ignite from a hammock and sample fresh ceviche and craft cocktails. Later, stroll to Art Cafe for a casual dinner of wood-fired seafood pizzas and local tapas, then finish the night with live acoustic music and a chilled mango shake at Garden Café, trading photos and route tips with fellow island-hoppers before turning in.
Touch down at Mactan-Cebu International Airport and head straight to Tops Lookout for a panoramic sunrise coffee and sweeping views over Cebu City and neighboring islands, a peaceful way to transition from Palawan's seascapes. After descending, explore the heritage trail around Colon Street, grabbing a hearty Cebuano breakfast of lechon kawali at a local carinderia before catching a short ferry to Mactan Island for a morning snorkeling session at Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary with vibrant corals and reef fish.
After a morning of snorkeling and city views, head to Magellan's Marker and stroll the nearby heritage stretch to soak in Cebu's layered history, then grab lunch at the lively Larsian BBQ for grilled skewers and local street-side flavors. In the late afternoon, take a short boat to Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary for birdwatching among migratory waders and a calm coastal bike ride, finishing with fresh seafood at a seaside nipa hut on Olango's Punta Engaño as the sun slides toward the horizon.
As night falls, wander to Taoist Temple's lower gardens for a tranquil twilight stroll and city-view photos, then head to IT Park for a lively dinner scene-try modern Cebuano dishes at The Pig & Palm or share seafood tapas at Cowrie Grill. After dinner, catch a cultural performance or live band at Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral Park adjacent venues, or finish with craft cocktails and skyline views from Skybar at Bayfront for a relaxed end to a day of travel and exploration.
Start your day with a sunrise dive or guided refresher at Mala Pascua Dive Resort, then ease into a shore-based snorkel at the nearby Tangke Marine Sanctuary to spot colorful reef fish and garden corals. After the morning in the water, return to the resort for a seaside brunch featuring fresh grilled catch and sinuglaw, then take a relaxed beachfront walk to Magellan's Garden (a local coastal park) for birdwatching and gentle coastal views before a mid-morning massage at the resort spa to recover from recent island-hopping adventures.
After a leisurely brunch, head to Maribago Beach for gentle swimming and stand-up paddleboarding along its sheltered shoreline before joining an afternoon guided snorkeling trip to Mactan Marine Sanctuary to see giant clams and schooling reef fish. Later, unwind with a sunset cocktail at Lapu-Lapu City's Bluewater Maribago Resort bar and savor a beachside platter of grilled seafood while watching traditional outrigger boats glide home, keeping the pace easy as you prepare to move on to Bohol the next day.
As dusk falls, head to Cebu Yacht Club for a leisurely sunset cruise along the Mactan shoreline, sipping a chilled drink while spotting distant island silhouettes. After the cruise, enjoy a beachfront dinner at Abaca Restaurant Mactan with contemporary Cebuano seafood dishes, then wander to Mactan Shrine's quieter evening gardens for a relaxed post-dinner stroll before returning to your resort.
Begin with a scenic countryside drive to the iconic Chocolate Hills Complex for sunrise photos and a short hike to the viewing deck, then drop by the nearby Bilar Man-made Forest for a tranquil walk beneath towering mahogany trees. Afterward, visit the conservation-focused Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella for a guided, quiet encounter with the tiny primates, finishing with a riverside brunch at Loboc River Floating Restaurant before a relaxed mid-morning paddle or bamboo-boat ride upstream.
After your Loboc river lunch, slip into adventure-mode with a canopy walk and zipline at Danao Adventure Park, where you can soar over dramatic karst valleys and try the hanging bridge for adrenaline and panoramic photo opportunities. Later, visit the riverside village of Anda for a relaxed swim at Quinale Beach or a short coastal snorkel to spot vibrant reef fish, finishing with fresh seafood at Anda's seaside karinderia while the sun lowers toward the western horizon.
As twilight settles, take a leisurely riverside cruise on the Abatan River for firefly-spotting and a peaceful glimpse into mangrove-lined waterways, followed by a shore stop at Panglao's Alona Beach for a beachfront dinner of grilled seafood and kinilaw at a locally loved restaurant. After dinner, wander the moonlit stretch of Dumaluan Beach for a quiet nightcap and, if you're up for it, join a small-group night snorkeling trip at Balicasag Island's protected reefs to glimpse nocturnal marine life before returning to your hotel.
Start the day with a sunrise drive to Cambugahay Falls for a refreshing swim beneath its tiered cascades and try the rope swing off the middle-tier platform before the crowds arrive. After drying off, head inland to the verdant trails around Lugnason Falls for a short hike and a picnic of fresh fruit and local pastries, then visit Capilay Spring Park in San Juan to stroll among shaded pools and watch locals gather at natural bathing spots.
After a morning at Cambugahay Falls and nearby springs, spend the afternoon circling the island by scooter to discover hidden coves and calm snorkeling spots-stop at Salagdoong Beach for cliff-jumping or a relaxed snorkel over its rocky reefs, then ride to Cantabon Cave for a short guided spelunking session and freshwater pool swim. Finish with golden-hour relaxation at Paliton Beach, watching local fishermen return while sampling freshly grilled seafood at a beachfront shack before heading back to your lodging to rest for tomorrow's ferry to Manila.
As dusk falls, settle into a relaxed seaside meal at Paliton Beach's beachfront shacks (try freshly grilled lapu-lapu and local coconut desserts) while watching the sky turn violet; afterwards, wander to Salagdoong Cliffs' quieter viewpoint to catch the last light and listen to the surf. Finish the night with a guided nocturnal walk through the fragrant lantern-lit paths of San Isidro Night Market for street snacks and local crafts, or opt for a hushed shore-side stargazing session at Talingting Beach with a torch-lit bonfire and chilled fresh coconut.
After your return to the capital, ease into the morning with a relaxed breakfast at Café Adriatico in Malate, then stroll through the nearby Ermita Heritage Park to stretch and soak up one last dose of Manila atmosphere. Head to Robinsons Place Manila or SM Mall of Asia to pick up any final souvenirs and use airport-adjacent luggage storage services, then finish with a light lunch at Rico's Lechon for a classic Cebuano-style roast before your transfer to the airport.
Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring the art-forward district of Poblacion-stop for a light lunch and gallery hop at Saguijo Café + Bar and peek into independent galleries like West Gallery for contemporary Filipino works. Later, wander the restored colonial lanes of Binondo Church's surrounding streets to sample last-minute snacks at Eng Bee Tin and pick up woven handicrafts at Escolta's boutique shops before returning to your hotel to finish packing and head to the airport.
Wind down your Philippine journey with a memorable final meal at Ilustrado Restaurant in Intramuros, savoring classic Filipino-Spanish dishes while the old city lights glow outside. Afterwards, take a short jeepney or Grab ride to Casa Manila Museum for a twilight stroll through well-preserved colonial rooms and courtyards, then finish with a nightcap at The Curator Coffee & Cocktails where inventive drinks and quiet bar seating are perfect for reflecting on the trip before your airport transfer.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ninoy Aquino International Airport (arrival services: SIM, cash withdrawal) | $5 |
| Ayala Triangle Gardens (stroll, coffee) | $5 |
| Fort Santiago (Intramuros) entry | $2 |
| Rizal Park (Luneta) entry/stroll | Free |
| Manila Baywalk (stroll) | Free |
| Binondo (dinner street food average) | $7 |
| The Bayleaf rooftop (cocktail/view) - per drink | $8 |
| Flight Manila → Puerto Princesa (domestic, economy estimate) | $60 |
| Puerto Princesa International Airport services (local transport/SIM) | $5 |
| Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Underground River) permit & boat | $25 |
| KaLui Restaurant (lunch average per person) | $12 |
| Puerto Princesa Baywalk Park (stroll/snacks) | Free |
| Mitchell's Place (coconut shake/snack) | $3 |
| Iwahig River boat tour (wildlife-spotting small boat) | $10 |
| Kabankalan Beach Club (cocktail/entrance) | $6 |
| La Terrasse Seafood Restaurant (dinner average) | $12 |
| Transfer Puerto Princesa → Busuanga/flight or ferry (estimate) | $70 |
| La Sirenetta Restaurant & Bar (breakfast) | $6 |
| Coron snorkeling gear rental (per day) | $5 |
| Island hopping (shared boat, Coron) - day tour | $25 |
| Barracuda Lake / Twin Lagoon entrance/boat fees (included in tour) | Free |
| Smith Beach / picnic (food cost) | $5 |
| Kawayanan Grill (dinner average) | $8 |
| Mt. Tapyas Viewpoint (climb/entrance donation) | $1 |
| Coron → El Nido transfer (shared boat/van) | $30 |
| Altrove El Nido (breakfast/cafe) | $6 |
| Las Cabanas Beach (snorkel/kayak rental) | $5 |
| Seven Commandos Beach visit (banca/entrance often included in tours) | Free |
| Nacpan Beach (transport/motorbike rental) | $8 |
| Duli Beach (surf rental/lesson - optional) | $12 |
| El Nido Night Market (snacks) | $4 |
| Island hopping tour A/B (El Nido - Big Lagoon/Small Lagoon/Shimizu etc.) | $25 |
| Kayak rental at Small Lagoon (if not included) | $8 |
| Matinloc Shrine viewpoint donation/entrance | $2 |
| Dilumacad (Helicopter) Island snorkel (included in tour) | Free |
| Hama Restaurant & Bar (sunset drink) | $6 |
| Flight El Nido/Coron → Cebu (via Puerto Princesa or Manila connection estimate) | $80 |
| Tops Lookout (view, coffee) | $3 |
| Colon Street heritage walk (self-guided) | Free |
| Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary snorkeling (boat + entrance) | $20 |
| Magellan's Marker (visit) | Free |
| Larsian BBQ (lunch average) | $6 |
| Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary (boat + guide/birdwatching) | $15 |
| Taoist Temple (visit) | Free |
| IT Park dinner (average at mid-range restaurant) | $12 |
| Skybar at Bayfront (drink) | $8 |
| Mala Pascua Dive Resort refresher dive (per dive) | $35 |
| Tangke Marine Sanctuary snorkel (entrance/boat) | $10 |
| Resort spa massage (60 min) | $20 |
| Maribago Beach SUP rental | $8 |
| Mactan Marine Sanctuary snorkeling (boat + guide) | $18 |
| Cebu Yacht Club sunset cruise (per person estimate) | $25 |
| Flight Cebu → Tagbilaran (Bohol) ferry or flight estimate | $25 |
| Chocolate Hills Complex (viewing deck entrance/donation) | $2 |
| Bilar Man-made Forest (stop) | Free |
| Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary (Corella) entrance/donation | $2 |
| Loboc River Floating Restaurant (lunch cruise) | $15 |
| Danao Adventure Park (zipline/canopy activities per ride) | $30 |
| Quinale Beach (swim/snorkel) | Free |
| Abatan River firefly cruise (evening boat tour) | $12 |
| Alona Beach dinner (mid-range seafood) | $10 |
| Balicasag night snorkeling (small-group trip) | $25 |
| Ferry Bohol → Siquijor (per person) | $10 |
| Cambugahay Falls (entrance/donation + rope swing) | $1 |
| Lugnason Falls (visit) | Free |
| Capilay Spring Park (visit) | Free |
| Salagdoong Beach (entrance/ cliff area) | $1 |
| Cantabon Cave guided spelunking (local guide fee) | $8 |
| Paliton Beach (snacks/dinner) | $6 |
| San Isidro Night Market snacks | $4 |
| Ferry Siquijor → Dumaguete/Manila connection + flight to Manila (estimate) | $60 |
| Café Adriatico (breakfast) | $6 |
| Ermita Heritage Park (stroll) | Free |
| SM Mall of Asia or Robinsons Place Manila (souvenirs average) | $15 |
| Rico's Lechon (light lunch) | $8 |
| Poblacion gallery hop (Saguijo / West Gallery snacks/entry) | $5 |
| Binondo Church / Eng Bee Tin snacks | $5 |
| Ilustrado Restaurant (final dinner average) | $18 |
| Casa Manila Museum (entrance) | $2 |
| The Curator Coffee & Cocktails (nightcap) | $6 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | $1231 |