Philippines Itinerary 7 Days: An Inspiration to Explore the Wonders of the Philippines

Planning a Philippines itinerary for 7 days requires smart routing to cover culture, beaches, and adventure. This guide gives a detailed 7-day trip to the Philippines for first-timers, with real-time travel tips, booking advice, and must-see places. 

From Manila’s historic core to Palawan’s crystal waters, this 7-day travel route in the Philippines balances city and island experiences. Whether you’re a solo explorer or a couple, this top 7-day itinerary for the Philippines saves time and maximizes discovery. 

Let’s get into what to do in the Philippines in 7 days.

Perfect Philippines Itinerary 7 Days

Here is a 1-week Philippines itinerary for first-time travelers exploring city sights, culture, and island adventures:

Day	Things To Do
Day 1	Arrive in Manila, rest, and explore SM Mall of Asia and Manila Ocean Park. Enjoy a relaxed evening dining by the bay.
Day 2	Dive into history with a full day in Intramuros. Visit Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and enjoy Filipino cuisine at heritage restaurants.
Day 3	Fly to Puerto Princesa in Palawan. Explore the famous Underground River and enjoy nature views en route to Sabang.
Day 4	Choose between island hopping in Honda Bay or a relaxing day in Port Barton. Enjoy snorkeling, beaches, and local seafood.
Day 5	Travel to El Nido. Settle in, explore small lagoons, or chill by the beach in the evening.
Day 6	Full-day island tour in El Nido. Visit Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, and other iconic island spots. Don’t miss a sunset cruise.
Day 7	Fly back to Manila. Spend your final hours shopping or relaxing before your flight home. Grab last-minute souvenirs.

Day 1: Arrival – Welcome to Manila

Source: Photo by Meo Fernando: https://www.pexels.com/photo/aerial-photo-of-cars-on-road-during-night-3214989/

Your first day in the Philippines begins in Metro Manila, the country’s capital and gateway to Luzon. Whether you’re landing at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or Clark Airport, this day is designed for a smooth arrival, light exploration, and adjusting to the local pace.

• Mall Exploration: SM Mall of Asia (MOA)

Source: Photo by Magda Ehlers: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-shopping-mall-2861655/

After check-in and some rest, explore SM Mall of Asia, one of Asia’s largest mall, located in Pasay City. It features over 600 shops, an open-air bay walk, an IMAX cinema, seaside rides, and a sprawling event arena.

Location:SM Mall of Asia

Travel Time: 20–30 minutes from NAIA Terminal 3 by Grab

Timings: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Highlights: SM Department Store, Uniqlo, Bench, Muji, and Kultura Filipino

Don’t Miss: MOA Eye Ferris Wheel by the seaside (PHP 150–250)

• Aquarium Visit: Manila Ocean Park

For a marine-themed experience, visit Manila Ocean Park, located near Rizal Park. It’s a family-friendly marine attraction featuring underwater tunnels, jellyfish displays, penguins, and sea lion shows.

Location:Manila Ocean Park

Ticket Price: PHP 680–1,200 (depending on package)

Attractions: Oceanarium, Trails to Antarctica, All-Star Bird Show

Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Weekdays), 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Weekends)

Don’t Miss: Book in advance to skip lines viaKlook Manila Ocean Park

• Dining Options in Manila

Manila offers an impressive range of local and international cuisines. If you’re staying near Makati, BGC, or Mall of Asia, here are the top-rated places:

Manila Bay Area (MOA vicinity):

• Spiral – Sofitel Manila: International buffet, 21 food ateliers (3,000+ per person)
• Ramen Nagi MOA: Popular for spicy tonkotsu broth
• Mesa Filipino Moderne: Modern local cuisine with seafood and grilled meat

Makati/BGC (if staying central):

• Manam: Filipino comfort food with a twist
• Toyo Eatery: Award-winning fine dining Filipino tasting menu
• Wildflour Café: All-day brunch and pastries

• Tips

Airport Transport: Book a Grab from the Grab Lounge inside NAIA Terminal 3 (fixed rates).

Currency Exchange: Use Sanry’s in Makati or Czarina Foreign Exchange in MOA for the best rates.

SIM Card: Get a Globe or Smart tourist SIM at airport booths (with 20GB–40GB plans for PHP 500–1000).

Luggage Storage: If you’re in transit, MOA has luggage lockers or use airport luggage services.

Safety: Stick to major establishments on Day 1, avoid random ATMs or unmetered taxis.

Essential Apps: Grab (transport), GCash (payments), Klook (tickets), Google Maps.

Nearby Hotels:Conrad Manila (luxury), Microtel MOA (mid-range), Selah Pods (budget).

Day 2: Old Manila: Intramuros & Local Cuisine

Source: Photo by NIC LAW: https://www.pexels.com/photo/brown-cathedral-757422/

Step back in time with a journey through Intramuros, Manila’s 16th-century walled city built during Spanish colonization. From cobblestone streets to ancestral churches, this area offers a rich glimpse into Filipino heritage. 

Spend your day walking through historic corridors, museums, and dining like a local with authentic Filipino cuisine.

• Intramuros Exploration

Begin with Fort Santiago, a Spanish-era citadel that once served as a defense fortress and prison. Continue to San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Explore Casa Manila, a fully furnished replica of a Spanish colonial mansion.

Location:Intramuros

Timing: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (for museums and guided tours)

Entrance Fees:

• Fort Santiago – PHP 75
• Casa Manila – PHP 75
• San Agustin Museum – PHP 200

Don’t Miss: Book a guided tour viaKlook orBambike Ecotours for eco-friendly bamboo bike rides through history.

• Museum Visit: National Museum Complex

Source: Photo by Montse Olmos: https://www.pexels.com/photo/santiago-museum-of-contemporary-art-14530671/

Just 10 minutes away from Intramuros is the National Museum of Fine Arts, featuring works by Juan Luna and other national artists. Entry is free.

Location:National Museum 

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Tip: Dress modestly; some galleries are air-conditioned and cold

• Dining Options: Traditional Filipino Cuisine

Wrap up your historical tour with a taste of authentic Filipino dishes in atmospheric, heritage-style restaurants.

Top Picks Around Intramuros:

• Ilustrado Restaurant – Fine dining inside Intramuros offering Spanish-Filipino classics like Callos and Paella.
• Ilustrado | Budget: PHP 700–1500/person
• Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant – Buffet with cultural dance shows (dinner option only).
• Barbara’s | PHP 699 buffet
• Ristorante Delle Mitre – Bishop-themed restaurant offering kare-kare, sinigang, and more in a cozy setup.

• Tips

Wear Comfortable Shoes: Intramuros streets are cobbled, so walking shoes are essential.

Visit Early: Arrive by 8–9 AM to avoid both heat and crowds.

Transport Tip: Take a Grab to Intramuros or the LRT to Central Station, followed by a short walk.

Photography: Great for golden hour shots by the walls, especially at Puerta Real Gardens.

Souvenirs: Check souvenir shops inside Casa Manila and the Rizal Park area for unique trinkets.

Hydration: Bring bottled water; few convenience stores inside the walls.

Safety Note: Intramuros is secure, but stay on main streets and avoid secluded alleys at night.

Guides & Audio: Download the Intramuros App for a virtual guide.

Day 3: Fly to Palawan – Puerto Princesa & Underground River

Source: https://www.pexels.com/search/palawan/

Kickstart your tropical adventure with a morning flight to Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s capital and gateway to one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature—the Underground River.

This day blends nature, adventure, and smooth travel, offering a breathtaking change from city life.

• Flight to Puerto Princesa

• Best Flights: Book early morning flights (5:00 AM – 8:00 AM) from Manila to Puerto Princesa viaCebu Pacific,Philippine Airlines, orAirAsia. 
• Flight duration: 1 hr 15 min

• Airport: Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS)
• Transport Tip: Arrange van/hotel pick-up in advance or use accredited airport vans (PHP 500–700 to Sabang)

• Underground River Tour

Source: Photo by Krivec Ales: https://www.pexels.com/photo/snow-covered-trees-near-body-of-water-3831243/

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park features an 8.2-km underground river system with limestone karst landscapes and impressive cave formations.

Location: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park 

Tour Duration: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM (including transfers and lunch)

Cost:

• DIY Permit: PHP 500 (plus guide and transport costs)
• All-in Tour: PHP 2000–2500/person (includes permits, buffet lunch, hotel transfer, boat, guide)

Book with:

• Klook
• Corazon Travel

• Tour Inclusions & Reminders:

What to Bring: Dry bag, extra clothes, insect repellent, waterproof phone pouch

Permits Required: Submit ID and book at least a day before (if DIY)

Experience: 45-minute paddle boat ride inside the cave with an audio guide headset

Wildlife Note: Watch out for monkeys and monitor lizards around the dock—don’t feed them!

• Dining Options: Puerto Princesa (Post Tour)

• KaLui Restaurant – Most popular restaurant for fresh seafood, local art decor, barefoot dining
• KaLui | Reserve in advance | Budget: PHP 300–700
• Kinabuch’s Grill & Bar – Great for exotic dishes (like crocodile sisig) and casual drinks
• Kinabuch’s

• Badjao Seafront Restaurant – Dine over mangroves with ocean views; best for sunset
• Badjao Seafront

• Tips

Pack Light: Bring only essentials for the tour—boats have limited space.

Book Underground River Early: Slots are limited due to environmental controls.

Eco-Fees: Prepare small bills (PHP 150–200) for eco fees and local tax.

Travel Time: It takes around 1.5–2 hours to reach Sabang Port from Puerto Princesa City.

Weather Note: Tours may be cancelled last-minute if seas are rough—plan a buffer activity.

Photos: Bring a GoPro or a wide-angle lens for capturing inside the cave.

Stay Connected: Signal is weak in Sabang—download confirmations and maps offline

Day 4: Island Hopping – Honda Bay or Port Barton

Your 7-day trip to the Philippines continues with a full day of tropical island hopping. 

Depending on your preference—proximity or raw beauty—you can explore the crystal-clear islands of Honda Bay (closer to Puerto Princesa) or head further north to Port Barton for a quieter, less touristy escape filled with snorkelling and serenity.

• Option 1: Honda Bay Island Hopping (Puerto Princesa)

Source: Photo by Michael Pointner: https://www.pexels.com/photo/shipwreck-on-a-beach-sand-in-tilt-shift-lens-12209738/

A convenient and scenic option for those based in Puerto Princesa. Honda Bay is dotted with white-sand islands and is ideal for beginners.

Location:Honda Bay Wharf 

Tour Time: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Tour Rate: PHP 1500–1800 (all-in: boat, lunch, gear, guide)

Book via:

• Klook – Honda Bay Tour

• Local tour desks or hotel concierge

Main Islands:

• Luli Island – “Lulubog, Lilitaw” (sinks and appears) with sandbars and chill vibes
• Cowrie Island – Water activities, lunch buffet, and shaded cabanas
• Starfish Island – Shallow clear water with visible starfish and great for snorkelling

What to Bring: Dry bag, aqua shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, change of clothes, snorkelling gear (if not renting)

• Option 2: Port Barton Island Hopping (San Vicente, Palawan)

For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Port Barton offers uncrowded beaches, stunning coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Travel Time from Puerto Princesa: ~3.5 to 4 hours via van

Location:Port Barton

Tour Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tour Cost: PHP 1200–1500 (all-in)

Book via:

• Tribal Xperience

• El Dorado Travel & Tours

Island Stops Include:

• German Island – Excellent snorkelling with turtle sightings
• Twin Reef – One of the best coral gardens in Palawan
• Bigaho Falls – A refreshing jungle waterfall right after the beach stops
• Paradise Island – True to its name: white sands, hammocks, and no crowds

Reminder: No ATMs in Port Barton. Bring cash and confirm bookings in advance.

• Dining Options

Puerto Princesa (Honda Bay Return):

• Kajoels Restaurant – Filipino seafood with native-style huts
• Neva’s Place – Pizza, pasta, and vegetarian options 

Port Barton:

• Gorgonzola – Wood-fired pizzas and salads
• Mabuti. Eat & Chill – Healthy bowls and veggie dishes
• Bikini Floating Bar – Quirky bar floating on the sea with cocktails and island snacks

• Tips

Start Early: Be ready by 7 AM to avoid midday heat and maximize beach time

Eco Fees: Honda Bay – PHP 150; Port Barton – PHP 50–100 (pay at port)

Marine Etiquette: Do not step on corals or collect shells/starfish

Offline Maps: Limited signal in both areas—download maps and confirmations in advance

Pack Smart: Sunscreen, quick-dry towel, cash, underwater camera

Tour Types: Group tours are cheaper, but private tours offer flexibility

Day 5: El Nido Transfer – Explore Hidden Lagoons

Source: Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/aerial-photography-of-boat-on-lake-460715/

On Day 5 of your Philippines 7-day travel plan, you’ll transfer to El Nido, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, and turquoise waters. 

Whether you’re continuing from Puerto Princesa or Port Barton, aim to reach El Nido by early morning to catch the best island hopping tours, specifically Tour A, which focuses on El Nido’s famous lagoons and hidden beaches.

Travel to El Nido

• From Puerto Princesa: ~5–6 hours by van |Book here

• From Port Barton: ~4 hours by shared van |Book here

Tip: Take the earliest van (4–6 AM) to catch El Nido Tour A, which usually departs at 9 AM.

• Tour A: Hidden Lagoons & Beaches

This is El Nido’s most iconic tour and a must in any 7-day trip to the Philippines. Most agencies offer a standard itinerary for Tour A, focused on crystal-clear lagoons and secluded beaches.

Tour Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Cost: PHP 1200–1400 (includes lunch, boat, snorkelling gear)

Book via:

• El Nido Paradise
• Klook – El Nido Tour A

Highlights:

Big Lagoon – Enter by kayak through a narrow entrance; emerald water & limestone walls

Small Lagoon – Snorkel or paddle in between limestone crevices (kayak rental ~PHP 250)

Shimizu Island – Lunch stop with excellent snorkelling

Secret Lagoon – Crawl through a small opening to a hidden pool

Seven Commandos Beach – White sand, coconut trees, and volleyball

• Dining Options in El Nido

After the tour, relax and dine with sea views or chill beach vibes.

• Happiness Beach Bar– Middle Eastern–Filipino fusion with vegetarian options
• Gusto Gelato + Bistro– Pizza, pasta, seafood, and homemade gelato
• La Plage – French–Filipino bistro with sunset views 

• Tips

Kayak Early: Rent your kayak before arriving at the lagoons to avoid queues.

Dry Bags Are a Must: Protect your gear from sea spray during transfers.

Eco Fee: PHP 200/environmental fee (valid for 10 days)—keep your receipt.

Sun Protection: Use rash guards, hats, and reef-safe sunscreen to prevent sunburn.

Snorkel Gear: Some boats charge extra for gear; check the inclusion before booking.

Weather Advisory: Tours can be cancelled due to weather; have a backup land itinerary ready.

Day 6: El Nido Full-Day Tours

Source: Photo by Vincent Lebis: https://www.pexels.com/photo/houses-near-body-of-water-surrounded-by-moutnains-1052197/

Day 6 of your Dubai itinerary 7-day adventure in the Philippines is all about discovering El Nido’s dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and untouched islands. 

Opt for full-day island hopping tours like Tour A, C, or D, depending on your interest in lagoons, beaches, or snorkel spots. These tours are boat-based and start from the main beach area in El Nido town.

Popular Tour Options

• Tour A (Lagoon Lover’s Pick)

• Small Lagoon – Paddle through narrow cliffs via kayak
• Big Lagoon – Stunning blue water surrounded by karst formations
• Shimizu Island – Ideal for snorkeling
• Seven Commandos Beach – Lounge with fresh coconuts
• Cost: PHP 1,200–1,400
• Book:Tour A on Klook

• Tour C (Top-Rated)

• Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, and Tapiutan Island
• Cost: PHP 1,400–1,600
• Book:Tour C on Klook

• Tour D (Hidden Spots) – For less-crowded areas like Cadlao Lagoon and Nat Nat Beach

Schedule: Most tours begin at 9 AM and return by 4 PM

Inclusions: Boat, buffet lunch, life vest, snorkeling gear (check ahead)

• Dining Options in El Nido

• Altrove Trattoria – Authentic wood-fired pizza and pasta
• Gusto Gelato – Dessert stop for handcrafted gelato
• Sava Beach Bar – Cocktails with sunset beach views
• Big Bad Thai – Rooftop restaurant known for pad Thai & curries

• Tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreen – Regular sunscreen harms coral reefs

Pack light – Waterproof bag, rash guard, towel, GoPro (available for rent in town)

Hydration – Bring a refillable bottle; El Nido promotes plastic-free tourism

Cash Economy – Bring pesos; card use is limited

Photography Tip – Secret Beach and Big Lagoon are best shot using wide-angle lenses

Environmental Fee – PHP 200 eco-tourism fee (ETDF) valid for 10 days

Day 7: Return to Manila – Shopping & Departure

Your final day of this 1-week itinerary in the Philippines starts with a return flight to Manila. Maximize your last few hours by exploring Manila’s cultural stores, shopping hubs, and quick food stops before your outbound flight.

• Flight to Manila from El Nido

• Airline: AirSwift (Direct to NAIA Terminal 4)
• Flight Duration: ~1 hr 30 mins
• Departure Tip: Arrive at El Nido airport 1.5 hrs before flight
• Book via:AirSwift

Alternative Option: Take a van to Puerto Princesa (~5–6 hrs) and fly via Cebu Pacific or PAL

• Shopping in Manila (Near NAIA)

Kultura Filipino (MOA or SM Makati) – Handicrafts, food items, and souvenirs

Greenbelt / Glorietta – Fashion, gadgets, and local brands

Resorts World Manila – Duty-free options, near NAIA Terminal 3

Lazada or Shopee Express Pickups – For last-minute tech/accessory needs

• Dining Options Before Departure

• Manam Comfort Filipino (Greenbelt 2) – Best for adobo, kare-kare, and sisig 
• The Alley by Vikings – Upscale buffet near NAIA T3
• Mary Grace Café (Airport Branches)– Filipino pastries, coffee, and comfort snacks

• Tips

Airport Transfers: Use Grab, or arrange through your hotel to avoid last-minute delays

Terminal Fee: Already included in most flight tickets—double-check before arriving

Local SIM Cards: Globe or Smart SIMs with data can help with ride-hailing and tracking

Souvenir Packing: Wrap fragile items, and declare local delicacies when needed

Weather Tip: If it rains, malls offer good indoor alternatives to explore before flying

Additional Recommendations

• Accommodations: In El Nido, stay at Cadlao Resort for lagoon views, or Spin Designer Hostel if you want something trendy and social. For Manila, Seda Hotel in BGC or Belmont Hotel near Terminal 3 offer great comfort and airport access.
• Food: Don’t miss Kinilaw (Filipino ceviche) and Chicken Inasal in Palawan. In Manila, try halo-halo, crispy pata, or lechon at Mesa or Manam. For something upscale, Gallery by Chele in BGC is a modern Filipino standout.
• Shopping: Kultura Filipino is your best stop for handwoven bags, woodcraft, and local snacks. For modern malls, Greenbelt and Glorietta offer a mix of global and Filipino brands. For bargain finds, head to Greenhills Shopping Center.

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FAQs

Is 7 days enough to explore the Philippines?

Yes, 7 days is enough to experience a curated mix of the Philippines’ top destinations—like Manila, Palawan, and El Nido. While you won’t see everything, a well-planned Philippines itinerary 7 days long can give you beaches, culture, food, and nature in one unforgettable trip.

What is the average daily cost for a 7-day itinerary in the Philippines?

For a mid-range traveler, expect to spend PHP 4,000–6,000/day (~$70–$110), covering food, local flights, tours, and transport. Budget options can go as low as PHP 2,000/day, while luxury can go over PHP 10,000/day.

Which is the best month to visit the Philippines?

The best time is from December to May. This dry season offers calm seas and sunny weather, perfect for beach hopping and outdoor activities. Avoid June to October due to the heavy monsoon.

How much money do I take to the Philippines for 7 days?

For one week in the Philippines itinerary, an average traveler might need PHP 35,000–50,000 (~$600–$900) depending on accommodation and activities. Always carry some cash for island tours and small shops, as not all places accept cards.

Which area of the Philippines is best to stay in?

It depends on your focus. Stay in Manila’s BGC or Makati for urban comforts and access to malls and restaurants. For nature and beach lovers, El Nido or Coron in Palawan offer stunning views and island tours. Cebu is another great option for a central base.

Should I include a Puerto Princesa Underground River tour in my itinerary?

Absolutely. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It fits perfectly into a 7-day trip to the Philippines, especially for first-timers exploring Palawan.

What does a 7-day Philippines itinerary include?

A top 7-day itinerary for the Philippines includes:

• Day 1–2: Manila (Intramuros, museums, food)
• Day 3–4: Puerto Princesa (Underground River, Honda Bay)
• Day 5–6: El Nido (Lagoons, beaches, island hopping)
• Day 7: Return to Manila for shopping and departure

How do I get around in the Philippines?

Domestic flights (like Manila to Palawan) are essential. In cities, use the Grab app or taxis. On islands, tricycles and vans are common. Ferries and boats are used for inter-island hopping.