Palawan's lagoons
Dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise water and hidden lagoons make Palawan one of the most photogenic and well-preserved regions across the entire Philippine archipelago.
The Philippines
Between turquoise waters, white sand beaches and lush volcanoes, the Philippines form an archipelago of over seven thousand islands. Palawan, Cebu and Siargao reveal spectacular nature, while Manila and its diverse traditions add a rich cultural dimension to every journey.
Why visit the Philippines?
The Philippines comprises over 7,000 islands spread across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, offering a wide variety of landscapes and beaches. The archipelago is known for its diving spots, active volcanoes and a culture shaped by Asian, Spanish and American influences.
What to discover in the Philippines?
The Philippines spans more than 7,000 islands, many of which remain lightly visited by international travelers. Palawan draws visitors with its hidden lagoons and dramatic limestone formations, while the Visayas islands, including Cebu, Bohol and Siquijor, combine white sand beaches, waterfalls and renowned diving sites. Further north, Luzon is home to the Banaue rice terraces, carved into the mountainside and recognized as a World Heritage site, as well as active volcanoes like Mayon and Taal, both accessible to hikers seeking spectacular panoramic views.
Beyond its generous nature, the archipelago carries the mark of centuries of history and cultural blending. Manila, the capital, combines Spanish colonial neighborhoods, such as the famous Intramuros district, with forward-looking modern architecture. Filipino culture stands out for its warm hospitality, lively local festivals and a cuisine shaped by Malay, Chinese and Spanish traditions. This diversity, combined with the archipelago's natural richness and the kindness of its people, makes the Philippines a well-rounded destination for travelers seeking a genuine change of scenery.
Cities to visit in Philippines
Featured destinations appear first.
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Philippines in pictures
Philippines highlights
From Palawan to Siargao, a few iconic experiences to discover the archipelago.
Diving in Cebu
Colorful coral reefs, curious sea turtles and historic shipwrecks make Cebu a highly popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts travelling across Asia.
Surfing in Siargao
Known for its consistent waves and protected mangrove reserve, Siargao attracts beginner and experienced surfers from around the world throughout most of the year.
Banaue rice terraces
Carved into the mountainside more than two thousand years ago, these rice terraces are among the most iconic sites recognized as World Heritage.
Old Manila
The historic district of Intramuros preserves forts, baroque churches and cobbled streets reflecting centuries of Spanish colonial presence at the heart of the capital.
Active volcanoes
Mayon and Taal offer spectacular volcanic landscapes and unique crater lakes, accessible through hikes of varying difficulty depending on the season.
Practical information
- Capital
- Manila
- Area
- 300,000 km²
- Population
- around 115 million
- Language(s)
- Filipino and English
- Currency
- Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone
- UTC+8
- Climate
- Tropical, hot and humid
- Best season
- December to May (dry season)
Frequently asked questions
What's the best time to visit the Philippines?
The dry season, generally running from December to May, is the most favorable time to visit the Philippines, with less rainfall and a notably lower risk of typhoons compared with the more unpredictable summer months.
Do I need a visa for the Philippines?
Many nationalities can enter the Philippines without a visa for a short tourist stay, usually limited to a few weeks. It's still recommended to check the exact requirements with the relevant authorities before departure, since rules can change.
How do you travel between the islands?
Domestic flights, ferries and local boats connect the main islands. Inter-island travel can require some flexibility depending on weather conditions, sea conditions and the frequency of available connections, especially during the rainy season.
Is the Philippines suitable for families?
Several regions such as Bohol and Cebu offer calm beaches, natural pools and gentle activities suited to a family trip with young children, while remaining easily accessible from the country's main international airports.
What language is spoken in the Philippines?
Filipino and English are the two official languages of the Philippines, with English widely taught, used and understood across most tourist areas, which makes communication considerably easier for international travelers.
What weather risks should I be aware of?
The archipelago can be affected by typhoons, particularly between June and November, a period during which some inter-island connections may be disrupted. It's wise to check local forecasts regularly before and during any stay in the Philippines.
Plan your trip to Philippines
Day-by-day itinerary, budget, bookings and packing in a single app.
