If you are about to embark on the most unforgettable holiday across the Philippines, this Philippines travel itinerary 2 weeks allows you to visit world-class places in this country, from lively Manila to the crystal clear waters of Palawan.
Be it island-hopping in El Nido, swimming with whale sharks in Cebu, or idling in the seductive splendor of White Beach, Boracay, with this itinerary, experience the very best of the Philippines in just 14 days. Get ready to bask in two weeks of sheer heaven on this tropical paradise!
Key Takeaways
- Start in Manila: Explore historical sites, shop in vibrant markets, and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
- Palawan’s Beauty: Experience island hopping in El Nido and Coron, including famous tours and dive spots.
- Cebu’s Adventures: Dive into waterfalls, swim with whale sharks, and explore marine life in Moalboal.
- Bohol’s Wonders: Visit the Chocolate Hills, meet tarsiers, and cruise down the Loboc River.
- Relax in Boracay: Unwind on White Beach, try water sports, and enjoy Boracay’s lively atmosphere.
- Travel Tips: Currency, safety, and language tips for a smooth journey.
- Alternative Itineraries: Options for 1-week, 10-day, or 3-week trips in the Philippines.
Philippines travel itinerary 2 weeks
Day 1-3: Manila – The Capital City
Exploring Intramuros
Intramuros, widely referred to as the “Walled City,” forms the first district in Manila. It will be an absolute dose of history and culture to begin with. Here’s what you can do:
- Fort Santiago: A place you cannot miss visiting to closely understand the Spanish colonization period and most importantly to know closely about the national hero, José Rizal. Do not miss the Rizal Shrine here, which pays tribute to his being.
- San Agustin Church: Since its declaration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the church has represented the triumph of architecture. The museum situated inside displays the religious artifacts and history of the colonization era.
- Casa Manila: This museum reconstructs a Spanish colonial mansion and takes one through time to the 19th century.
Shopping and Dining
Manila is a busy city with lots of places to shop and dine:
- Divisoria Market: One of the most inexpensive markets in Manila, here one can buy souvenirs and goods.
- Binondo: This town boasts the world’s oldest Chinatown, and it is a paradise for gourmands. The favorite specialties are from the tastiest
- Chinese-Filipino cuisine: from dumplings to hopia, phlegmatic bean-filled pastries.
- Greenbelt in Makati: Want something a little more upscale? Go to Greenbelt, with international brands and fine dining restaurants.
Nightlife in Manila
If you are looking for some nightlife, some bars and clubs in either Makati or Bonifacio Global City offer a mix of local and international vibes, from live music bars to rooftop lounges.
Days 4 To 7: Palawan – El Nido And Coron Island Hopping
Island Hopping Tours: El Nido’s Famous Tourism Activity
In its inherent distinction, El Nido is famous for its island-hopping tours, grouped into four main routes, namely:
- Lagoon Tour: This is the most popular in the list, which will feature the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, and even the Secret Lagoon plus Shimizu Island. You will traverse them using a kayak for paddling, snorkeling, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
- Cave and Island Tour: Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, and Cathedral Cave—this package is perfect tandem for individuals who want to witness different rock formations and other secret beaches. Ends
- Hidden Beach Tour: Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island—a combination of history, adventure, and awesome scenery.
- Cadlao and Paradise Tour: For a more peaceful one, you must avail of Tour D going to Cadlao Lagoon and Paradise Beach to have some intimate moments with nature far away from the crowded noise of tourists.
Coron’s Shipwrecks and Lagoons
Coron is also well-known for its World War II sunken shipwrecks, a diver’s paradise. These include:
- Barracuda Lake: Home of a thermocline—a thin layer within a body of water where temperature changes more rapidly than it does beneath or above it.
- Kayangan Lake: Surrounded by limestones and clear blue water, it is claimed to be the cleanest lake in Asia.
- Wrecks Dive: Discover the fate of Japanese wrecks Irako Maru and Akitsushima, now artificial reefs that serve as homes to abundant marine species.
Where to Stay in Palawan
- El Nido: For the budget traveler and those who are more social, book Spin Designer Hostel, or for those who fancy five-star quality and paradise, choose El Nido Resorts.
- Coron: For a comfier, more relaxed vacation with rooftop pools, book The Funny Lion, or for those looking for something altogether different, go for a cruise on Paolyn Houseboats.
Day 8-9: Cebu – Waterfalls And Whale Sharks
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
Kawasan Falls is no longer just a picturesque waterfall; it has now become a popular spot for canyoneering:
- Canyoneering Adventure: Start your day with an adventure full of adrenaline. Jump off cliffs, slide down natural slides, and swim through turquoise pools as you navigate your way down this canyon. Ideal activity for anyone who loves a serious thrill.
Whale Shark Encounter in Oslob
Oslob is a small town in Cebu that is known for experiencing whale sharks. Swim early with the gentle giants at Oslob. The best time to visit is at 6 to 8 AM. Although this may seem thrilling, proper guidelines must be followed to ensure that the creatures are safe as well as the environment they are in.
Moalboal’s Sardine Run and Turtle Bay
After whale sharks, head on to Moalboal.
- Sardine Run: Snorkel in Panagsama Beach where you see millions of sardines swimming in unison. It is some kind of surreal that draws divers and snorkelers here.
- Turtle Bay: There are also good numbers of sea turtles in Moalboal. Spend some more time swimming with these magnificent creatures.
Where to Stay in Cebu
- Oslob: In Ging-Ging Hotel, you can stay nearer to whale shark areas, and for a slightly cheaper stay.
- Moalboal: Club Serena Resort is beachfront, and several diving sites can be accessed in Moalboal.
Day 10-12: Bohol – Chocolate Hills And Tarsiers
Discovering the Chocolate Hills
Bohol’s Chocolate Hills are one of the natural marvels of:
- Viewing Hill: The Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen has a viewing hill where visitors can see these hills. For more dramatic views of the surroundings, better to go there during the early mornings or in the late afternoons.
- ATV Adventure: Rent an ATV and have a joyful drive around the base of the hills. It’s a fun way to explore the area.
Meeting the Tarsiers
The Philippine tarsier is one of the smallest primates in the world :
- Tarsier Sanctuary: Visit the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, where you’ll be able to observe these nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. Keep it tranquil and don’t use your flash camera, for it might distract them, being sensitive to light and sound.
Loboc River Cruise
Another Bohol hit, the Loboc River Cruise takes place on the :
- River Cruise: Eat your lunch while relaxing over a floating restaurant, cruise down the Loboc River. Cultural performances with a picturesque view of the surrounding jungle are included in the cruise.
Where to Stay in Bohol
- Panglao Island: Henann Resort Alona Beach is also highly rated due to its beachfront location and extra amenities.
- Tagbilaran City: If you are looking for access to Bohol’s attractions, Bohol Tropics Resort can give you the best location.
Day 13-14: Boracay – The Famous White Beach
Chill on White Beach
Boracay’s White Beach consistently ranks as the best beach in the world:
- Balabag Beach: With a large beachfront area and high-quality hotels, Balabag Beach is the place to stay if you’re serious about lazing, sunbathing, swimming, and sipping fresh coconut juice.
- Central White Beach: There are just too many choices in Central White Beach. Centrally located between Balabag Beach and Manoc-Manoc Beach, and centering near D’Mall, people find hundreds of restaurants, bars, and shops in the area.
- Manoc-Manoc Beach: For a quieter stay, It is quieter and more relaxed.
Things to Do on Boracay
- Paraw Sailing: Hop on a traditional Filipino sailboat as the sun sets. It is a tranquil way to take in Boracay’s fine coastline.
- Kite Surfing: Head on over to Bulabog Beach, the designated kite-surfing area of the island. You can take lessons or just watch the pros do their thing.
Where to Stay on Boracay
- Upscale: Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa is a secluded hideaway with splashy amenities.
- Mid-ranged: The District Boracay is located right at the heart of White Beach, making everything on this island very accessible to guests.
- Affordable: Frendz Hostel Boracay is known among backpackers for its low-cost accommodations mixed with a very social vibe around the hostel.
Philippines Travel Guide Tips For 2 Weeks
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP). Easily accessible in most cities and bigger tourist towns; for the smaller ones, keep always in mind that it would be far better to carry cash there.
- Safety: The Philippines is generally a safe country to visit, but when traveling to any country, be aware of your surroundings. Keep a close eye on your belongings, and avoid dimly lit areas.
- Language: With English as the first language, it is easy for travelers to communicate and get around.
Alternative Itineraries
- 3 Weeks in the Philippines: Add on and add in places like Siargao for surfing, Banaue for the rice terraces, or Sagada with the hanging coffins and cool climate.
- 10 days in the Philippines: For a shorter trip, focus on key destinations such as Manila, Palawan, and Cebu. Now, in ten days of this thrilling Philippines itinerary, you can get jam-packed highlights and a taste of what the country is all about.
- 1 week in the Philippines: If time is of the essence, then a week is more than enough to take a vacation in the Philippines for you to have so much fondness at experiencing one of the top destinations, either in Palawan or Cebu.
2 Weeks Manila To The Philippines
Starting your 2-week itinerary from Manila, domestic flights can be easily accessed. Major airliners, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific, often fly to major spots like Palawan, Cebu, and Boracay. Having a route planned ahead of time makes sure to utilize your time without missing any of the must-see stops.
Final Thoughts On Philippines Travel Itinerary 2 Weeks
The Philippines is such a destination that caters to any kind of vacationer: an adventurer, a relaxation-seeker, or a culture enthusiast. So, here is a well-rounded Philippines travel itinerary 2 weeks for exploring the best of the country.
Your travel around the Philippines, from its beautiful beaches to vibrant cities, from unique landscapes to other wonderful attractions, will be full of lifetime memories.
And so now the packing commences and we are all set for a journey of a lifetime in the Philippines! Have a safe flight!