7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in the Philippines

Day 1: Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - Manila

Start your trip in the bustling capital city of Manila. In the morning, explore the historic walled city of Intramuros, where you can visit Fort Santiago and the San Agustin Church. In the afternoon, head to Rizal Park, a beautiful green space with gardens and monuments. As the evening sets in, visit the vibrant district of Malate for its lively nightlife.

• Intramuros: Estimated Cost - PHP 75 for entrance fee, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Rizal Park: Free entrance, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Malate: Cost varies, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Day 2: Thursday, September 28, 2023 - Batangas

Embark on an island adventure as you travel to Batangas, known for its stunning beaches and dive sites. In the morning, take a boat to the picturesque Taal Volcano, where you can hike to the crater lake. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy shores of Laiya Beach. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant food scene in Batangas City.

• Taal Volcano: Estimated Cost - PHP 200 for boat ride, PHP 500 for hiking guide, Estimated Time Spent - 4 hours
• Laiya Beach: Free entrance, Estimated Time Spent - Afternoon
• Batangas City: Cost varies, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Day 3: Friday, September 29, 2023 - Cebu City

Fly to Cebu City, a hub of culture and history. In the morning, visit the iconic Magellan's Cross and the beautiful Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. In the afternoon, explore the historic Fort San Pedro and stroll along the colorful streets of Colon Street. As the evening sets in, indulge in delicious street food at Larsian, a popular barbecue market.

• Magellan's Cross: Free entrance, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Basilica Minore del Santo Niño: Free entrance, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Fort San Pedro: Estimated Cost - PHP 30 for entrance fee, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Colon Street: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Larsian: Cost varies, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Day 4: Saturday, September 30, 2023 - Bohol

Take a ferry to the enchanting island of Bohol. In the morning, visit the famous Chocolate Hills, a unique geological formation. In the afternoon, cruise along the Loboc River and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on a floating restaurant. As the evening sets in, visit the cute and tiny tarsiers at the Tarsier Conservation Area.

• Chocolate Hills: Estimated Cost - PHP 50 for entrance fee, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Loboc River Cruise: Estimated Cost - PHP 550 for buffet lunch, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Tarsier Conservation Area: Estimated Cost - PHP 60 for entrance fee, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Day 5: Sunday, October 1, 2023 - Palawan (El Nido)

Fly to the breathtaking island of Palawan and make your way to El Nido, a tropical paradise. In the morning, go island hopping and explore the stunning lagoons and beaches. In the afternoon, take a hike to the top of Taraw Cliff for panoramic views. As the evening sets in, relax on the beach and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

• Island Hopping Tour: Estimated Cost - PHP 1,200, Estimated Time Spent - 6 hours
• Taraw Cliff Hike: Estimated Cost - PHP 400 for guide, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Day 6: Monday, October 2, 2023 - Palawan (Puerto Princesa)

Travel to Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. In the morning, explore the stunning Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, visit the Butterfly Garden and the Crocodile Farm. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing stroll along the Baywalk and savor delicious seafood.

• Underground River: Estimated Cost - PHP 1,200 for tour, Estimated Time Spent - 4 hours
• Butterfly Garden: Estimated Cost - PHP 50 for entrance fee, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Crocodile Farm: Estimated Cost - PHP 40 for entrance fee, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Baywalk: Free, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Day 7: Tuesday, October 3, 2023 - Manila

Return to Manila for your departure. In the morning, visit the vast Mall of Asia, where you can shop and dine. In the afternoon, explore the cultural district of Makati, home to art galleries and stylish boutiques. As the evening sets in, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

• Mall of Asia: Cost varies, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Makati: Cost varies, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Farewell dinner: Cost varies, Estimated Time Spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao, an awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another hidden gem is Siquijor Island, known for its mystical charm and beautiful beaches. Locals also love exploring the enchanting island of Siargao, famous for its surfing spots and pristine nature.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, you can check here.