7-Day Itinerary in the Philippines

Saturday, December 23: Manila

Start your trip in the vibrant capital city of Manila. In the morning, explore the historic district of Intramuros, known for its Spanish colonial architecture and Fort Santiago. In the afternoon, visit the bustling markets of Divisoria for some shopping. As the evening sets in, head to the Manila Baywalk to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

• Intramuros: Cost estimate: PHP 75, Time spent: 2 hours
• Divisoria: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 3 hours
• Manila Baywalk: Free, Time spent: 1 hour

Sunday, December 24: Bohol

Take a short flight to the stunning island of Bohol. In the morning, visit the famous Chocolate Hills and marvel at the unique natural formations. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Loboc River on a river cruise. As the evening approaches, head to Alona Beach for a relaxing sunset by the sea.

• Chocolate Hills: Cost estimate: PHP 50, Time spent: 2 hours
• Loboc River Cruise: Cost estimate: PHP 450, Time spent: 2 hours
• Alona Beach: Free, Time spent: 1 hour

Monday, December 25: Cebu

Travel to the vibrant city of Cebu. In the morning, visit the iconic Magellan's Cross and Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. In the afternoon, take a trip to the nearby island of Mactan and explore its beautiful beaches. As the evening sets in, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

• Magellan's Cross: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
• Basilica Minore del Santo Niño: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
• Mactan Island: Cost estimate: Boat fare - PHP 15, Time spent: 3 hours
• Seafood Dinner: Cost estimate: PHP 500, Time spent: 1 hour

Tuesday, December 26: Palawan

Fly to the breathtaking island of Palawan. In the morning, explore the stunning Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine beaches of El Nido and go island hopping. As the evening approaches, savor a delicious dinner by the beach.

• Underground River: Cost estimate: PHP 1,500 (including boat tour), Time spent: 4 hours
• El Nido Island Hopping: Cost estimate: PHP 1,200, Time spent: 5 hours
• Dinner by the Beach: Cost estimate: PHP 800, Time spent: 1 hour

Wednesday, December 27: Banaue

Take a flight to Banaue and immerse yourself in the stunning rice terraces. In the morning, hike through the terraces and enjoy the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit the Banaue Museum to learn more about the local culture. As the evening sets in, relax at your hotel and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

• Banaue Rice Terraces: Cost estimate: PHP 100, Time spent: 4 hours
• Banaue Museum: Cost estimate: PHP 50, Time spent: 1 hour

Thursday, December 28: Siargao

Fly to the stunning island of Siargao, known for its world-class surfing spots. In the morning, hit the waves and try your hand at surfing. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful beaches and explore the island's natural wonders. As the evening approaches, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

• Surfing Lesson: Cost estimate: PHP 500, Time spent: 2 hours
• Beach Relaxation: Free, Time spent: 3 hours
• Seafood Dinner: Cost estimate: PHP 500, Time spent: 1 hour

Friday, December 29: Batanes

Take a flight to the breathtaking islands of Batanes. In the morning, explore the stunning landscapes of Basco and visit the picturesque lighthouses. In the afternoon, take a boat tour to Sabtang Island and experience the traditional Ivatan culture. As the evening sets in, enjoy a relaxing dinner while watching the sunset.

• Basco Landscapes: Cost estimate: PHP 100, Time spent: 4 hours
• Sabtang Island Tour: Cost estimate: PHP 2,000, Time spent: 6 hours
• Dinner with Sunset View: Cost estimate: PHP 800, Time spent: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the enchanting Kawasan Falls in Cebu or exploring the pristine beaches of Calaguas in Camarines Norte. Locals love the quaint town of Vigan in Ilocos Sur for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and delicious local delicacies.

Check hotel and flight prices here.