7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for the Philippines

1. Saturday, September 16: Manila
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Ninoy Aquino International Airport

   Start your trip in the bustling capital city of Manila. In the morning, explore the historic Intramuros district and visit Fort Santiago. Afternoon can be spent wandering through the vibrant markets of Divisoria. In the evening, enjoy a sunset walk along Manila Bay.

   • Fort Santiago: Entrance fee: ₱75, Time: 2 hours
2. Sunday, September 17: Batangas
   2 hours (80 miles) from Manila

   Head to Batangas, known for its beautiful beaches and dive spots. Start your day with a relaxing morning at Matabungkay Beach. In the afternoon, go snorkeling or diving in Anilao. Wrap up the day with a visit to Taal Volcano, an active volcano within a lake.

   • Matabungkay Beach: Free, Time: Half-day
   • Anilao: Snorkeling package: ₱500, Time: 3 hours
   • Taal Volcano: Boat ride: ₱200, Entrance fee: ₱100, Time: 4 hours
3. Monday, September 18: Cebu City
   2 hours 30 minutes (90 miles) from Batangas

   Fly to Cebu City, the gateway to the stunning islands of the Visayas. Spend the morning exploring the historic sites of Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro. In the afternoon, take a refreshing dip at the Kawasan Falls. End the day with a vibrant night out at Mango Square.

   • Magellan's Cross: Free, Time: 1 hour
   • Fort San Pedro: Entrance fee: ₱30, Time: 1 hour
   • Kawasan Falls: Entrance fee: ₱40, Time: Half-day
4. Tuesday, September 19: Bohol
   1 hour (50 miles) by ferry from Cebu City

   Take a ferry to Bohol, known for its unique Chocolate Hills and adorable tarsiers. Start your day with a countryside tour, visiting the Chocolate Hills, the Man-made Forest, and the Tarsier Conservation Area. In the afternoon, relax on the white sandy beaches of Panglao Island.

   • Chocolate Hills: Entrance fee: ₱50, Time: 2 hours
   • Tarsier Conservation Area: Entrance fee: ₱60, Time: 1 hour
5. Wednesday, September 20: Palawan
   1 hour 30 minutes (90 miles) by plane from Bohol

   Fly to Puerto Princesa, the gateway to the stunning island of Palawan. Start your day by exploring the enchanting Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, soak up the sun on the pristine beaches of Honda Bay. End the day with a relaxing stroll along the beautiful Sabang Beach.

   • Puerto Princesa Underground River: Boat tour: ₱1,500, Time: Half-day
   • Honda Bay: Island hopping: ₱1,000, Time: 4 hours
6. Thursday, September 21: El Nido
   5 hours (160 miles) by bus from Puerto Princesa

   Take a scenic bus ride to the stunning town of El Nido. Start your day with an island hopping tour, exploring the breathtaking lagoons and hidden beaches. In the afternoon, go snorkeling and witness the vibrant marine life. Enjoy the evening by dining on fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant.

   • Island Hopping Tour: Tour package: ₱1,200, Time: Full-day
7. Friday, September 22: Manila
   1 hour 30 minutes (160 miles) by plane from El Nido

   Return to Manila for your departure. Spend the day exploring the modern side of the city with a visit to the Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in Asia. In the evening, indulge in Filipino cuisine at a local restaurant and reminisce about your amazing adventure in the Philippines.

   • Mall of Asia: Free, Time: Flexible

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

Some other attractions and experiences you may consider are:

• Visit Oslob, Cebu, for a chance to swim with whale sharks.
• Explore the stunning islands of Coron, Palawan, famous for its crystal-clear waters and shipwreck diving.
• Take a day trip to the beautiful Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Try local street food, such as balut (boiled fertilized duck egg) and halo-halo (a refreshing dessert).

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