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Exploring the Philippines on a Shoestring Budget - 7-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, September 26: Manila

In the morning, visit Rizal Park, a historical landmark dedicated to the national hero Jose Rizal. Explore the park's lush gardens and admire the iconic bronze statue. In the afternoon, head to Intramuros, the walled city, and take a guided walking tour to discover its Spanish colonial architecture. As the evening sets in, visit the bustling night market in Divisoria for local street food and affordable shopping.

  • Rizal Park: Approximately 50 PHP, 2-3 hours
  • Intramuros Walking Tour: Around 200 PHP, 2-3 hours
  • Divisoria Night Market: Varies depending on purchases, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Batangas

Start your day by taking a bus to Batangas City. In the morning, go snorkeling or diving in Anilao, known for its vibrant marine life and beautiful coral reefs. Enjoy a picnic lunch on Sepoc Beach, a secluded paradise accessible via a boat ride from Eagle Point Resort. Finish the day with a hike up Mt. Gulugod Baboy for breathtaking views of Batangas.

  • Anilao Snorkeling/Diving: Budget-friendly packages available, 4-5 hours
  • Sepoc Beach: Entrance fee starting from 800 PHP, full day
  • Mt. Gulugod Baboy Hike: 50 PHP for environmental fee, 3-4 hours
Thursday, September 28: Cebu

Spend your morning exploring the historic sites of Cebu City, including Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Mactan Island and visit the Lapu-Lapu Shrine, dedicated to the native chieftain who defeated Ferdinand Magellan. As evening approaches, immerse yourself in the vibrant street food scene at Larsian BBQ.

  • Magellan's Cross: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Fort San Pedro: 30 PHP entrance fee, 1-2 hours
  • Lapu-Lapu Shrine: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Larsian BBQ: Affordable street food options, 2-3 hours
Friday, September 29: Bohol

Start your day by exploring the Chocolate Hills, an iconic geological formation. Take a boat to Panglao Island and relax on the beautiful Alona Beach in the afternoon. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Tarsier Conservation Area to see the adorable Philippine tarsiers. In the evening, take a river cruise on the Loboc River while enjoying a buffet dinner.

  • Chocolate Hills: Entrance fee of 50 PHP, 2-3 hours
  • Alona Beach: Free, relax for a few hours
  • Tarsier Conservation Area: Entrance fee of 60 PHP, 1-2 hours
  • Loboc River Cruise: Around 700 PHP including dinner, 2-3 hours
Saturday, September 30: Palawan (El Nido)

Take an early flight to El Nido, Palawan, and start your day with island-hopping tours. Enjoy the crystal clear waters and stunning limestone formations in places like Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Shimizu Island. In the evening, explore the vibrant night market in El Nido town and indulge in delicious local cuisines.

  • El Nido Island-Hopping Tour: Budget-friendly packages available, full day
  • El Nido Night Market: Varies depending on purchases, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 1: Siargao Island

Fly to Siargao Island in the morning and start your day with a visit to Cloud 9, a world-renowned surf spot. Spend the afternoon exploring the Magpupungko Rock Pools, natural tidal pools perfect for swimming and snorkeling. End your day by enjoying the sunset at Pacifico Beach.

  • Cloud 9: Entrance fee of 50 PHP, half-day
  • Magpupungko Rock Pools: Entrance fee of 50 PHP, half-day
  • Pacifico Beach: Free, enjoy the sunset
Monday, October 2: Manila

Return to Manila and spend your last day exploring the vibrant district of Makati. Visit Ayala Museum in the morning to learn about Filipino history and art. In the afternoon, take a stroll in Ayala Triangle Gardens and enjoy the green oasis. As evening sets in, indulge in delicious street food at Mercato Centrale.

  • Ayala Museum: Entrance fee of 350 PHP, 2-3 hours
  • Ayala Triangle Gardens: Free, relax for a few hours
  • Mercato Centrale: Varies depending on purchases, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions, head to the Banaue Rice Terraces in Luzon. These stunning terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Ifugao people. Don't miss the chance to try local street food like balut (developing duck embryo) and halo-halo (a refreshing dessert) for an authentic culinary experience.

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.

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