COUNTRY GUIDE

Philippines Travel Guide

7,641 islands, smiling people and turquoise waters.

Manila's energy, Cebu's island adventures, and one of the world's warmest peoples. The Philippines is for those seeking beaches, diving, and genuine warmth.

Last updated: 2026-09-05

CITIES

Cities in Philippines

Hour-by-hour plans, daily budgets and practical info ready for each.

PhilippinesManilaA capital of old walls, street food and sunsets PhilippinesCebuWhere history, tropical rhythm and modern Visayas meet
PRACTICAL INFO

Before you go

When to go

December–April (dry season).

Visa

Visa-free entry up to 30 days for many nationalities; check conditions in advance.

Money

The currency is the Peso (PHP). Mostly cash; jeepneys, tricycles and karinderyas want cash.

Transport

Domestic flights between islands (Cebu Pacific); ferries; Grab and jeepneys in the cities.

FAQ

Philippines: frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit the Philippines?
December–April is the dry season and the best period to visit. June–November is the typhoon season; it doesn't rain every day, but typhoons are possible, so follow PAGASA warnings. Choose the dry season for island vacations and diving.
Is the Philippines safe?
Tourist destinations (Manila Makati/BGC, Cebu, Palawan, Bohol, Siargao) are largely safe. Western Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago are not tourist routes. Standard urban caution regarding pickpocketing/scams is enough; the main risks are natural (typhoons, currents).
Is the Philippines expensive?
No, it is an affordable country. Mid-range daily budget per person is ~$90–95; street food and local transit are very cheap, while island tours and domestic flights increase the budget.
Manila or Cebu?
Manila offers city energy, history (Intramuros), and nightlife; Cebu is for island adventures, waterfalls, diving, and lechon. Ideal is combining both: 2–3 days in Manila + 4–5 days in and around Cebu.
Can you travel in the Philippines without eating pork?
Yes, but caution is needed — lechon (pork) and various meat dishes are common. Seafood, chicken (adobo/inasal), and vegetable dishes are plentiful; asking about ingredients at karinderyas and sticking to chicken/fish is practical.
How is the SIM card situation in the Philippines?
Globe and Smart tourist SIMs at the airport are set up in minutes and are cheap. If you set up GCash (mobile payment), QR payments also become available. Smart coverage is slightly better in the southern islands.