Discover Philippines Offbeat: 14 Days Exploring Hidden Gems and Less Touristy Spots

Day 1: Manila Discover

Manila, Philippines on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café by the Ruins

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this quiet, art-inspired café serving Filipino dishes with a modern twist, perfect to ease into your journey.
PHP350, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Bahay Tsinoy Museum

Explore the history and culture of the Filipino-Chinese community through interactive exhibits in a less crowded museum.
PHP100, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Paco Park

Relax in this small, peaceful park with beautiful greenery and colonial architecture, an offbeat spot for a calm stroll.
Free, 45m

12:30pm

Lunch at El Chupacabra

Taste unique Mexican street food that’s popular among locals but often missed by tourists.
PHP400, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Escolta Street

Walk through the revitalized historic street with quirky art spaces and vintage shops, a hidden Manila treasure.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Coffee Break at Yardstick Coffee

Enjoy some of Manila’s best artisanal coffee in a hip, off-the-radar café.
PHP180, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Toyo Eatery

Dine at this award-winning restaurant that provides a modern take on Filipino cuisine in a serene setting away from the tourist stream.
PHP1500, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Tagaytay Escape

Tagaytay, Philippines on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Travel from Manila to Tagaytay

Depart early by private car or bus to Tagaytay, a cool highland city with stunning views of Taal Volcano.
PHP300, 2h

9:30am

Breakfast at Bag of Beans

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast surrounded by lush gardens with great local coffee and homemade bread.
PHP450, 1h

11:00am

Visit People's Park in the Sky

Explore this lesser-visited park with panoramic views over Taal Lake, avoiding the usual tourist crowd.
PHP30, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mahogany Market

Savor fresh local beef dishes like bulalo in a lively authentic market environment.
PHP250, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Puzzle Mansion

See one of the world's largest puzzle collections, a quirky offbeat attraction not widely known to tourists.
PHP150, 1h

4:00pm

Coffee and Pastries at Sonya’s Garden

Relax in a charming garden café serving organic baked goods and herbal teas.
PHP400, 1h15m

6:30pm

Dinner at Antonio's

End your day with farm-to-table cuisine in an elegant yet low-key setting famous among locals.
PHP1800, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Quezon Province Nature

Quezon Province, Philippines on May 31, 2025

6:30am

Travel Tagaytay to Quezon Province

Drive east toward Quezon to explore unspoiled nature and old towns.
PHP350, 2h

9:00am

Breakfast in Lucban at Cafe Lucban

Sample local delicacies like pancit habhab in a cozy café setting.
PHP250, 1h

10:30am

Visit Kamay Ni Hesus Shrine

Experience the tranquil pilgrimage site with its giant hand sculpture and scenic hillside trails.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bahay Bakasyunan sa Una

Enjoy traditional Quezon cuisine in a peaceful resort atmosphere.
PHP400, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Quezon National Forest Park

Hike or simply relax among shaded forest paths offering a refreshing break from city life.
PHP50, 2h

5:00pm

Travel to Bicol Region

Begin your journey to the Bicol area for the next day's exploration in Sorsogon Province.
PHP500, 3h

8:00pm

Dinner at local eatery in Sorsogon

Taste fresh seafood dishes common to the Bicol area in a modest local restaurant.
PHP300, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Sorsogon & Catanduanes

Sorsogon, Philippines on June 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Fika Sorsogon

Start with specialty coffee and pastries in a cozy, artsy café favored by locals.
PHP200, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Catanduanes by ferry

Board a morning ferry to the island province known for its pristine quiet beaches and surfing.
PHP350, 2h

11:00am

Visit Puraran Beach, Baras

Discover this less touristy surf spot with crystal-clear waters and great waves for beginners and pros.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at local eatery near Puraran

Enjoy fresh locally caught seafood and native dishes in a simple beachfront setting.
PHP300, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Maribina Falls

Hike to a serene waterfall surrounded by thick forest providing a peaceful nature experience.
PHP50, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at your guesthouse

Enjoy a quiet evening in an offbeat location away from bustling tourism.
Included in accommodation, Rest

7:00pm

Dinner at the guesthouse or local family restaurant

Sample home-cooked Catanduanes specialties reflecting local flavors.
PHP350, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Catanduanes to Samar

Catanduanes, Philippines on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Start your day with a homemade breakfast prepared by your host.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Return ferry to Sorsogon

Take the ferry back to Sorsogon mainland preparing for travel onward to Samar Island.
PHP350, 2h

11:00am

Travel from Sorsogon to Samar by van

A scenic land route by van through Bicol and Leyte regions to reach Samar Island off the beaten path.
PHP800, 4h

3:30pm

Check-in to Homestay in Calbiga, Samar

Stay with a local family to experience authentic Samar hospitality and culture.
PHP1000, Rest

4:30pm

Visit Calbiga Caves

Explore one of the largest cave systems in the Philippines with guided tours through impressive underground formations.
PHP200, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner with host family

Enjoy a home-cooked meal featuring traditional Samar recipes for a genuine cultural experience.
Included, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Leyte Exploration

Leyte, Philippines on June 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at homestay

Relish a fresh local breakfast with your host family before heading out.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Leyte by ferry and van

Cross over to Leyte and explore quaint towns and waterfalls off popular circuits.
PHP400, 3h

11:00am

Visit Lake Danao National Park

Enjoy hiking and kayaking in this serene park with minimal tourist traffic.
PHP150, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at local eatery in Ormoc City

Taste regional dishes like binagol or kalamay in an authentic setting.
PHP250, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Kabugawan Falls

Reach this hidden gem waterfall that offers cool swimming spots surrounded by forest.
PHP50, 2h

5:30pm

Return to homestay or guesthouse

Relax after a full day exploring nature and local culture.
Included, Rest

7:00pm

Dinner at local seafood restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes that Leyte and Samar offer with a peaceful ambiance.
PHP350, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Cordillera Mountains

Benguet, Philippines on June 4, 2025

6:00am

Travel to Baguio City, Benguet

Fly or take an early morning bus from Leyte to Baguio, known as the summer capital with a cooler climate.
PHP1200, 4h

10:00am

Breakfast at Arca’s Yard

Enjoy a cozy mountain garden café with stunning views and organic dishes.
PHP400, 1h

11:30am

Visit BenCab Museum

Explore contemporary and indigenous art in a museum set in lush surroundings just outside the city.
PHP150, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Café by the Ruins

Savor local Cordilleran dishes in a peaceful atmosphere away from main tourist areas.
PHP350, 1h

3:30pm

Walk around Botanical Garden

Relax in a less touristy garden showcasing native plants and indigenous art installations.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Baguio Public Market

Shop local produce and handicrafts like woven textiles, a vibrant but not overcrowded spot.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Good Taste Restaurant

Enjoy affordable, home-style Filipino meals preferred by locals in a casual, low-key setting.
PHP300, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Baguio Nearby Villages

La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines on June 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast in Baguio City

Start your day with a simple coffee and pastry at Arca’s Yard to enjoy the morning breeze.
PHP250, 1h

9:00am

Explore Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad

Visit this small agricultural town to pick fresh strawberries and learn about local farming practices.
PHP100, 2h

11:30am

Visit Bell Church

Discover an interesting Taoist temple with intricate designs rarely crowded with tourists.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Good Shepherd Convent

Sample local jams, chocolates, and simple meals produced by nuns, an authentic and tranquil spot.
PHP300, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tam-Awan Village

Explore reconstructed traditional huts and art exhibits celebrating Cordillera culture in a serene setting.
PHP100, 2h

4:30pm

Coffee at Arca’s Yard or nearby café

Relax with a coffee and scenic views before sunset.
PHP200, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Café by the Ruins

Enjoy traditional food inspired by local ingredients in a calm environment.
PHP400, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Back to Manila

Manila, Philippines on June 6, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Baguio to Manila

Take an early bus or private transfer back to Manila to enter your final days in the city.
PHP600, 4h

11:30am

Brunch at Wildflour Café + Bakery

Sample freshly baked goods and fusion brunch dishes in a trendy but quiet spot in Bonifacio Global City.
PHP500, 1h

1:00pm

Visit the Yuchengco Museum

Discover lesser-known Filipino art and history exhibited in an intimate museum space.
PHP120, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk the Manila Bay promenade

Enjoy a peaceful coastal stroll away from heavy tourist areas during late afternoon.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Coffee at The Curator Coffee & Cocktails

Experience one of Manila’s best specialty coffee shops favored by locals seeking quality brews.
PHP180, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Locavore

Relish modern Filipino dishes made with locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, non-touristy atmosphere.
PHP1200, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Taal Volcano Trek

Batangas, Philippines on June 7, 2025

6:00am

Travel from Manila to Taal Volcano Scenic Town

Arrive early in Tagaytay or Talisay to start the trek before the heat and crowds pick up.
PHP300, 2h

8:00am

Breakfast in Talisay Market

Enjoy local Filipino breakfast fare like suman and coffee in a community market rarely visited by tourists.
PHP150, 45m

9:00am

Trek Taal Volcano

Hike lightly to the crater, a quieter route compared to typical tours, offering stunning views and nature immersion.
PHP500, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at a local lakeside restaurant

Sit down for fresh lake fish dishes in a simple but authentic setting along the shore.
PHP300, 1h

2:00pm

Exploration of local villages around Talisay

Discover pottery, weaving, and traditional crafts peaceful village life away from tours.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Travel back to Manila

Return to Manila for overnight rest after a rewarding outdoor day.
PHP300, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at 8Cuts Burger Blends

Enjoy gourmet burgers loved by locals, offering a casual dining experience off tourist radar.
PHP400, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Intramuros and Binondo

Manila, Philippines on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Intramuros Café

Kick off your day with complimentary coffee and Filipino breakfast in a quiet spot inside the historic walled city.
PHP250, 1h

9:30am

Walk Intramuros Historical Walk

Explore lesser-known parts of Intramuros including old churches and Spanish colonial architecture with few tourists around.
PHP150, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Wai Ying Chinese Restaurant

Relish authentic Chinese dishes in Manila’s Chinatown (Binondo), a local favorite far from tourist menus.
PHP400, 1h

1:30pm

Binondo Food Walk – off the beaten path

Discover traditional street foods and small family eateries often missed by tourists.
PHP200, 2h

4:00pm

Coffee at Liliw Coffee

Enjoy robust local coffee in a laid-back setting in Chinatown's quieter streets.
PHP120, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Casa Roces

Dine in a beautiful heritage house serving classic Filipino cuisine off the usual tourist track.
PHP800, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Pampanga Culinary Day

Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines on June 9, 2025

6:00am

Travel to Angeles City, Pampanga

Head to the culinary capital of the Philippines, renowned for homegrown recipes and flavor.
PHP400, 2h

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Fleur

Try Kapampangan breakfast specialties in a charming boutique café away from mainstream tourists.
PHP300, 1h

9:30am

Visit local market and cooking class

Explore the colorful local market and take a half-day cooking class focused on Pampanga cuisine.
PHP2500, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Bale Dutung

Indulge in an exquisite chef’s table experience showcasing traditional Pampanga flavor innovations.
PHP3500, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or spa

Unwind with a local spa treatment offering a Filipino massage in a peaceful setting.
PHP800, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at local street food market

Enjoy casual street eats and local drinks popular among residents but less known to tourists.
PHP200, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Mount Pinatubo Trek

Capas, Tarlac, Philippines on June 10, 2025

5:00am

Travel to Mount Pinatubo Base

Depart early to begin a trek to Mount Pinatubo’s crater lake, avoiding large tour groups on weekdays.
PHP1000, 3h

8:00am

Breakfast picnic at crater lake

Enjoy a scenic meal right by the turquoise lake formed after the famous eruption.
Self-provided, 1h

9:00am

Explore crater area

Spend time absorbing the surreal volcanic landscape away from crowds.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Return trek and travel back to Angeles City

Make your way back slowly to enjoy the surroundings.
Included, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at local café

Recharge with simple local dishes in Angeles City.
PHP250, 1h

3:30pm

Rest and leisure afternoon

Spend time relaxing or shopping for local handicrafts.
Free, Rest

7:00pm

Dinner at C’ Italian Dining

Experience great Italian food favored by locals for a soothing end to your adventurous day.
PHP800, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Departure Prep

Manila, Philippines on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Travel back to Manila

Make your way to Manila for your departure day with time to relax and pack.
PHP600, 2h

10:30am

Breakfast at The Grid Food Market

Sample diverse Filipino favorites in a modern food court atmosphere minimizing tourist crowds.
PHP300, 1h

12:00pm

Shopping at Greenhills Shopping Center

Shop for last-minute souvenirs and local crafts in a local shopping area less frequented by tourists.
Free, 2h

2:30pm

Afternoon rest and pack

Return to your hotel to relax and prepare for your departure.
Free, Rest

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Mecha Uma

Taste creative contemporary Asian dining focusing on Filipino ingredients in an intimate and exclusive setting.
PHP1800, 2h
View Hotel Availability