This 10-day Philippines itinerary covers the essential highlights for first-time visitors: bustling Manila for culture and history, stunning Palawan for island adventures, and vibrant Boracay for beach relaxation. The route balances must-see attractions with realistic travel times and includes practical tips for navigating this diverse archipelago.
Quick Budget Estimate
Best Time to Go
March to May offers the best weather but expect higher prices and crowds. June to November is rainy season with potential typhoons but fewer tourists and lower costs. December to February is peak season with perfect weather but maximum prices. Check our rainy season guide for detailed planning.
Your Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1-3: Manila, Philippines
The capital offers first-timers essential Filipino culture, history, and urban energy before heading to the islands.
Things to Do
Explore the historic walled city with Spanish colonial architecture and Fort Santiago
$15-25 per person (as of April 2026)Start early morning to avoid heat and crowds
Learn Filipino history at the country's premier cultural institutions
Free — National Museum admission is free dailyOpen Monday-Sunday. Weekends are busier — visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience
Sample Chinese-Filipino cuisine in the world's oldest Chinatown
$25-45 per person (as of April 2026)Book through Klook for better rates and skip-the-line access
Experience Manila's modern side with rooftop bars and night markets
$30-60 per person (as of April 2026)Use Grab for safe transportation between venues
Things to See
- San Agustin Church — UNESCO World Heritage baroque church from 1607
- Casa Manila — Reconstructed Spanish colonial house showcasing period lifestyle
- Malacañang Palace — Official residence of Philippine presidents (tours available)
- Manila Bay Sunset — Famous waterfront views best seen from Roxas Boulevard
What to Eat
Purple Yam or local carinderia
$3-8 (as of April 2026)Binondo street vendors
$2-5 (as of April 2026)Chowking or Jollibee
$2-4 (as of April 2026)Manam or Aristocrat
$5-10 (as of April 2026)Where to Stay
Z Hostel ($15-25/night) or Mad Monkey Hostel ($18-30/night)
Search on ExpediaMicrotel Makati ($45-65/night) or Red Planet Makati ($40-60/night)
Search on ExpediaMakati Shangri-La ($120-180/night) or Peninsula Manila ($150-220/night)
Search on ExpediaGetting There
Fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Airport taxi to city center takes 45-90 minutes depending on traffic and costs $8-15 (as of April 2026). Consider Airalo eSIM for instant connectivity upon arrival.
Getting Around
Grab rides ($2-8 per trip), jeepneys ($0.30-0.50), MRT/LRT trains ($0.50-1.00). Traffic is severe during rush hours (7-9am, 5-8pm).
Day 4-7: Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Palawan's gateway city provides access to world-famous underground rivers and pristine island hopping experiences.
Things to Do
UNESCO World Heritage site featuring spectacular limestone caves and underground waterways
$25-35 per person including transport (as of April 2026)Book 2-3 days in advance as daily visitors are limited to 900 people
Visit 3-4 islands including Starfish Island and Snake Island for snorkeling and beach time
$35-50 per person including lunch (as of April 2026)Bring reef-safe sunscreen and underwater camera for best experience
Half-day tour covering Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Plaza Cuartel, and wildlife viewing
$20-30 per person (as of April 2026)Combine with airport transfer on departure day to maximize time
Evening boat ride through mangroves to see thousands of fireflies illuminating the trees
$15-25 per person (as of April 2026)Tours only run during new moon periods for best visibility
Things to See
- Baker's Hill — Themed attraction with peacocks, landscaped gardens, and city views
- Mitra's Ranch — Hilltop ranch offering panoramic views of Honda Bay and surrounding islands
- Plaza Cuartel — WWII memorial site honoring American prisoners of war
- Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center — Conservation facility caring for endemic species including Palawan bearcat
What to Eat
Kinabuch's Grill and Bar
$8-12 (as of April 2026)Badjao Seafront Restaurant
$6-10 (as of April 2026)Kinabuch's or Kalui Restaurant
$12-18 (as of April 2026)Badjao Seafront
$10-20 (as of April 2026)Where to Stay
Sheebang Hostel Puerto Princesa ($12-20/night) or Balai Felicilda ($15-25/night)
Search on ExpediaAziza Paradise Hotel ($35-55/night) or Canvas Boutique Hotel ($45-70/night)
Search on ExpediaSheridan Beach Resort ($80-120/night) or Astoria Palawan ($90-140/night)
Search on ExpediaGetting There
Fly Manila to Puerto Princesa (1.5 hours, $60-120 as of April 2026). Book through Expedia for package deals. Airport is 2km from city center, tricycle costs $3-5.
Getting Around
Tricycles for short trips ($2-5), habal-habal motorcycles for longer distances ($5-10), rental scooters ($15-20/day), or join organized tours with transport included.
Day 8-9: Boracay, Philippines
The Philippines' most famous beach destination offers world-class white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife perfect for ending the trip.
Things to Do
Spend time on the 4km stretch of powdery white sand divided into three stations
Free beach access, sunbeds $5-10/day (as of April 2026)Station 1 has the finest sand but higher prices, Station 3 is more budget-friendly
Traditional Filipino sailboat experience during Boracay's famous sunset
$15-25 per person (as of April 2026)Book for 5:30pm departure to catch golden hour and avoid crowds
Try parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat, and paddleboarding
$40-80 per person for multiple activities (as of April 2026)Negotiate package deals directly with beach operators for better rates
Browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and enjoy diverse restaurant options
$20-50 per person for dining (as of April 2026)Visit during happy hour (4-6pm) for discounted drinks and appetizers
Things to See
- Willy's Rock — Iconic rock formation with Virgin Mary statue, perfect for photos
- Mount Luho Viewpoint — Highest point on the island offering panoramic views of the coastline
- Puka Shell Beach — Quieter northern beach known for collecting puka shells
- Ariel's Point — Cliff jumping and snorkeling spot accessible by boat tour
What to Eat
Sunny Side Cafe
$3-5 (as of April 2026)Jonah's Fruit Shake
$2-4 (as of April 2026)D'Talipapa wet market
$8-15 (as of April 2026)Steakhouse or beachfront grills
$6-10 (as of April 2026)Where to Stay
Mad Monkey Hostel Boracay ($20-35/night) or Z Hostel ($25-40/night)
Search on ExpediaRed Coconut Beach Hotel ($60-90/night) or Boracay Beach Club ($70-110/night)
Search on ExpediaShangri-La Boracay ($180-280/night) or Henann Regency Resort ($120-200/night)
Search on ExpediaGetting There
Fly Puerto Princesa to Manila (1.5 hours), then Manila to Kalibo (1.5 hours, $80-150 total as of April 2026). Bus to Caticlan port (1.5 hours, $3), then ferry to Boracay (20 minutes, $1). Total journey 6-8 hours including connections.
Getting Around
Electric tricycles (e-trikes) $2-8 per trip, rental bicycles $8-12/day, walking along the beach, or multicabs for longer distances $1-3 per person.
Day 10: Manila, Philippines
Final night near the airport for departure shopping and last-minute Filipino experiences before flying home.
Things to Do
One of the world's largest malls for souvenirs, pasalubong, and duty-free shopping
$20-100 depending on purchases (as of April 2026)Visit the IMAX theater or SM Skating Rink if flight is delayed
Catch a traditional Filipino performance or art exhibition if time permits
$10-30 per person (as of April 2026)Check schedule in advance as shows aren't daily
Final Manila Bay sunset walk and street food sampling
$5-15 for food and drinks (as of April 2026)Perfect spot for last-minute photos and reflection on the trip
Things to See
- SM Mall of Asia Eye — Giant ferris wheel offering city and bay views
- Seaside Boulevard — Waterfront promenade perfect for evening walks
- Manila Ocean Park — Aquarium and marine theme park if traveling with family
What to Eat
Street vendors near Rizal Park
$0.50-1 (as of April 2026)Max's Restaurant
$8-12 (as of April 2026)Airport shops for takeaway
$5-8 (as of April 2026)Where to Stay
OYO Hotels near airport ($20-35/night) or Z Hostel Makati ($25-40/night)
Search on ExpediaBelmont Hotel Manila ($45-70/night) or Tune Hotel Ortigas ($35-55/night)
Search on ExpediaEDSA Shangri-La ($100-150/night) or Marriott Manila ($120-180/night)
Search on ExpediaGetting There
Fly Kalibo to Manila (1.5 hours, $60-100 as of April 2026). Allow 3-4 hours total including bus connections from Boracay. Book airport hotel through Expedia for convenience.
Getting Around
Airport shuttle services ($5-10), Grab rides to malls ($3-8), MRT for city center access ($0.50-1.00).
Visa Requirements
US citizens can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days with a valid passport (6+ months remaining) and return ticket. Extensions available at immigration offices for additional fees. Ensure travel insurance coverage and check CDC vaccination recommendations before travel.
Always verify current requirements with official embassy sources. See our visa guide for details.
eTravel (mandatory): All travelers to the Philippines must complete the eTravel registration within 72 hours before arrival. Have your QR code ready at immigration.
Packing Tips
- Reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen is banned in many marine parks)
- Quick-dry clothing and waterproof phone case for boat tours and water activities
- Comfortable walking sandals that can get wet plus closed-toe shoes for city exploration
- Portable power bank as electricity can be unreliable in some areas
- Cash in small bills (many places don't accept cards or large denominations)
See the full travel gear guide for detailed recommendations.
Honest Downsides
- Domestic flights are frequently delayed or cancelled due to weather, especially June-November
- Island hopping tours are weather-dependent and may be cancelled on short notice during monsoon season
- Internet connectivity can be slow or unreliable outside major cities, affecting navigation and communication
- Traffic in Manila is among world's worst - allow 2-3x estimated travel time during rush hours
- ATMs frequently run out of cash and many establishments are cash-only, requiring careful money management
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