Philippines Travel Guide — Best Cities, Food & Tips

Good to know

Best time to visit

Dry season from November to April is ideal for island hopping and outdoor activities; expect more rain and rougher seas during the southwest monsoon (May to October).

Currency

Philippine peso (PHP); carry small bills and coins for markets and jeepneys

Language

Filipino (Tagalog) and English are official; many regional languages like Cebuano and Ilocano are also spoken

Getting around

Domestic flights connect major islands (e.g., Manila–Cebu–Palawan), ferries and fast crafts link nearby islands, and local transport uses taxis, Grab app in cities, and colorful jeepneys or tricycles for short trips.

Culture & etiquette

Filipinos are warm and polite—greet with a smile, remove shoes when entering some homes, and use both hands when giving or receiving items to show respect.

Country highlights

El Nido, Palawan

World-class limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons and island-hopping tours in turquoise waters.

Coron, Busuanga

Exceptional wreck diving and dramatic karst islands with clear freshwater lakes like Kayangan Lake.

Boracay

Powder-white Bulabog and White Beach sands, lively nightlife and water sports after its environmental cleanup.

Chocolate Hills and Bohol

Unique geological formations, tarsier sanctuaries, and scenic Loboc River cruises.

Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture with cobblestone Calle Crisologo and calesa rides.

Manila

A dynamic capital with Intramuros historic district, Chinatown (Binondo), museums and vibrant food scene.

What to eat

Adobo

Savory stew of pork or chicken braised in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic and bay leaves.

Sinigang

A tangy tamarind-based sour soup with pork, shrimp or fish and vegetables.

Lechon

Whole roasted pig with crispy skin, a festive centerpiece in many celebrations.

Halo-halo

Layered shaved ice dessert with sweet beans, jellies, fruit, leche flan and ube.

Kinilaw

Filipino ceviche of raw fish marinated in vinegar or calamansi with ginger and chilies.

Insider tips

Carry local cash (PHP) for markets, tricycle fares and islands — ATMs can be scarce in remote areas.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag for island hopping and boat transfers.
When flying between islands, allow extra time for transfers and check luggage policies on small carriers.
Tap water is not potable in most places—buy bottled or use filtered water; ice from reputable vendors is usually safe in tourist areas.
Be mindful of typhoon season (June–November) and monitor weather updates if traveling to coastal or island destinations.

Cities in Philippines

Manila🇵🇭 Philippines

Historic charm, vibrant streets, tropical energy

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Cebu🇵🇭 Philippines

Island history, waterfalls, and vibrant streets

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Boracay🇵🇭 Philippines

Tropical paradise of white sands

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Puerto Princesa🇵🇭 Philippines

Gateway to Palawan's Pristine Wonders

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Good to know — FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?

Many nationalities can enter visa-free for stays ranging from 14 to 30 days; check the Philippine Bureau of Immigration website for current visa rules and longer-stay requirements.

Is it safe to travel around the Philippines?

Most tourist areas are safe but exercise typical travel caution, avoid conflict-affected zones in parts of Mindanao, and secure belongings in crowded places.

Can I use English to get by?

Yes—English is widely spoken in cities, tourist areas, and by younger Filipinos, making communication straightforward for English-speaking travelers.

What electrical plugs and voltages are used?

The Philippines uses Type A and B plugs and 220V/60Hz; bring a universal adapter and check device compatibility.

Good to know

Country highlights

What to eat

Insider tips

Cities in Philippines

Good to know — FAQ

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