Phillipines-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Manila

  • Places to Go: Intramuros (the walled city), Fort Santiago
  • Activities:
    • Visit the iconic Walled City of Intramuros
    • Explore the historic Fort Santiago, a Spanish-era fort that was once used as a prison for Filipino revolutionaries
    • Take a stroll along the Manila Bay promenade and enjoy the sunset
  • Things to Know:
    • Philippines is an archipelago with over 7,000 islands; be prepared for long travel times between islands
    • English is widely spoken in the Philippines, but learning basic Filipino phrases (e.g. “salamat” - thank you) will go a long way in showing respect and appreciation for local culture
  • Visa Requirements:
    • As a tourist, you’ll need to obtain a visa on arrival or e-visa before your trip; check with the Philippine embassy or consulate in your home country for requirements
    • Nationals of certain countries (e.g. Australia, Canada, Japan) are eligible for a visa-free stay of up to 30 days
  • Transportation:
    • From the airport, take a taxi or jeepney (a colorful and affordable mode of public transportation) to your hotel in Manila
    • Consider hiring a driver or joining a guided tour to make the most of your time in the Philippines

Day 2: Boracay Island

  • Places to Go: White Beach, D’Mall Shopping Center
  • Activities:
    • Relax on the world-famous White Beach, considered one of the best beaches in the world
    • Visit D’Mall Shopping Center for a taste of local culture and shopping experience
    • Consider taking a snorkeling or diving trip to explore the island’s stunning coral reefs
  • Things to Know:
    • Boracay is a popular tourist destination; expect crowds and higher prices during peak season (December-May)
    • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or interacting with locals
  • Visa Requirements:
    • Same as Day 1; ensure you have the necessary visa requirements before traveling to the Philippines
  • Transportation:
    • From Manila, take a domestic flight to Kalibo, then transfer to a ferry for the final leg to Boracay Island
    • Consider booking a speedboat or private transfer service for added convenience and comfort

Day 3: Cebu Island

  • Places to Go: Magellan’s Cross, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño
  • Activities:
    • Visit the historic sites of Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Explore the vibrant streets of Cebu City, trying local cuisine and shopping for souvenirs
    • Consider taking a day trip to nearby islands (e.g. Lapu-Lapu Island) or visiting the stunning Tarsier Sanctuary
  • Things to Know:
    • Cebu is a major hub for travel in the Philippines; be prepared for crowds and traffic, especially during peak season
    • Learn about local customs and traditions, such as the importance of respect and humility when interacting with elders
  • Visa Requirements:
    • Same as Day 1; ensure you have the necessary visa requirements before traveling to the Philippines
  • Transportation:
    • From Boracay Island, take a domestic flight back to Manila or transfer to a ferry for the final leg to Cebu Island
    • Consider booking a private transfer service or joining a guided tour to make the most of your time in Cebu

Other Tips and Recommendations:

  • Weather: The Philippines has two main seasons - wet (June-October) and dry (November-May); plan accordingly based on weather forecasts
  • Food: Try local cuisine, such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon; avoid eating from street vendors or food stalls that appear unhygienic
  • Safety: Take necessary precautions to stay safe while traveling in the Philippines, such as avoiding travel at night and keeping valuables secure

Visa-Free Stay:

  • Nationals of eligible countries can enjoy a visa-free stay of up to 30 days; check with the Philippine embassy or consulate for more information