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Philippines in One Week: 4 Recommended 1-week Itineraries to Philippines

A young man in the wooden raft in Kawasan Falls on Cebu Island during his one week in the Philippines.
The best experience!
  • Katie Savill
  • From Wales
I definitely recommend if you love beaches and the ocean! The accommodations were gre...” Read More

The Philippines One-week Itinerary Options

Stuck for ideas? Take a look at our the Philippines one-week itinerary suggestions below. From the bustling streets of Manila to the pristine beaches of Boracay and the breathtaking landscapes of Bohol, these plans make the most of your time in this beautiful archipelago.

Itinerary #1: Highlights of the Philippines

Sumilon island beach in Cebu in Philippines in November.
Sumilon Island in the Philippines offers tranquil beaches and clear turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling and a serene escape.
  Overview Activity
Day 1 Start your tour in Manila and explore the historic Intramuros. Arrival
Day 2 Fly to Banaue and marvel at the UNESCO rice terraces. Rice terrace exploration
Day 3 Hike through picturesque rice paddies and visit local villages. Hiking
Day 4 Travel to Cebu and relax on pristine beaches. Beach relaxation
Day 5 Snorkel with whale sharks in Oslob (seasonal). Snorkeling
Day 6 Island-hop around Cebu's stunning coastal gems. Island exploration
Day 7 Depart from Cebu for home or onward travel. Departure

This 7-day Philippines itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural wonders. Begin in the capital city of Manila, exploring the historic walled city of Intramuros. Then fly north to Banaue to witness the picturesque rice terraces. Spend a day hiking through these ancient agricultural marvels and connecting with local indigenous communities. The journey continues in Cebu, where you'll have the opportunity to relax on beautiful beaches and, if the season permits, snorkel alongside gentle whale sharks in Oslob. Conclude your adventure with an island-hopping excursion, discovering hidden coves and vibrant marine life before departing from Cebu's international airport.

Itinerary #2: Island Paradise

A group of people entering  the cave in Puerto Princesa River during their
Explore the Puerto Princesa River and immerse yourself in its stunning beauty and tranquil waters for an unforgettable adventure.
A girl posing while snorkeling in the Philippines.
Enjoy snorkeling in the Philippines and dive into vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, discovering an underwater world brimming with colorful marine life.
  Overview Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Manila and visit Rizal Park. Arrival
Day 2 Fly to El Nido, Palawan and settle into your beachfront resort. Beach relaxation
Day 3 Embark on an island-hopping tour of Bacuit Bay. Island exploration
Day 4 Kayak through the Big and Small Lagoons. Kayaking
Day 5 Snorkel at vibrant coral reefs and relax on hidden beaches. Snorkeling
Day 6 Take a day trip to the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Exploration
Day 7 Bid farewell to paradise and depart from Puerto Princesa. Departure

This week-long Philippines adventure focuses on the stunning natural beauty of Palawan, often hailed as one of the world's most beautiful islands. After a brief stop in Manila to visit the iconic Rizal Park, fly to El Nido, the gateway to Palawan's wonders. Spend your days exploring the limestone karsts and hidden lagoons of Bacuit Bay, paddling through crystal-clear waters, and discovering secluded beaches. Snorkel among colorful coral gardens teeming with marine life, and take time to simply relax on powdery white sand beaches. One of the trip's highlights is a visit to the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Itinerary #3: Cultural Odyssey of the Philippines

The ruins in Corregidor Island on a clear day in the Philippines.
Explore the ruins on Corregidor Island and uncover a poignant piece of World War II history amidst stunning island views.
  Overview Activity
Day 1 Touch down in Manila and tour the National Museum. Arrival and museum visits
Day 2 Explore Corregidor Island and its World War II sites. Island exploration
Day 3 Fly to Bohol and marvel at the Chocolate Hills. Hill exploration
Day 4 Cruise the Loboc River and spot tiny tarsiers. Cruise tour
Day 5 Travel to Cebu and visit Magellan's Cross. Exploration
Day 6 Experience the vibrant Sinulog Festival (January) or local markets. Market exploration
Day 7 Depart from Cebu with fond memories. Departure

This seven-day itinerary offers a deep dive into the cultural tapestry of the Philippines. Start in Manila, exploring the National Museum to gain insights into Filipino art and history. Take a day trip to Corregidor Island, a poignant reminder of World War II. Next, fly to Bohol to witness the unique Chocolate Hills and cruise down the serene Loboc River, keeping an eye out for the endangered tarsiers. In Cebu, delve into the country's colonial past at sites like Magellan's Cross. If your visit coincides with January, experience the colorful Sinulog Festival, a lively celebration honoring the Santo Niño. Otherwise, explore local markets to engage with friendly locals and sample delicious Filipino cuisine. Check out our cultural tours to the Philippines.

Itinerary #4: Thrills and Wonders in the Philippines

The view of Mount Mayon during dusk in the Philippines.
Challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Mayon and be rewarded with stunning views of one of the world's most perfectly shaped volcanoes.
A couple in the wooden raft in Kawasan Falls in the Philippines.
Raft through the crystal-clear waters of Kawasan Falls and experience a thrilling adventure amidst stunning natural beauty in the Philippines.
  Overview Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Manila and prepare for your upcoming adventures. Arrival
Day 2 Fly to Legazpi and trek Mount Mayon. Hiking
Day 3 Swim with whale sharks in Donsol (seasonal). Whale watching
Day 4 Travel to Cagayan de Oro for white-water rafting. Rafting
Day 5 Go canyoneering at Kawasan Falls in Cebu. Canoeing
Day 6 Dive or snorkel at the marine sanctuaries of Moalboal. Snorkeling
Day 7 Conclude your thrilling week in Cebu Departure

This action-packed week in the Philippines is perfect for adventure enthusiasts. After arriving in Manila, fly to Legazpi to trek the perfectly conical Mount Mayon, an active volcano known for its symmetrical shape. If in season, travel to nearby Donsol for an unforgettable encounter with whale sharks. Next, head to Cagayan de Oro for an exhilarating white-water rafting experience on the Cagayan River. In Cebu, challenge yourself with a canyoneering adventure at the stunning Kawasan Falls, leaping into turquoise pools surrounded by lush jungle. Cap off your trip with world-class diving or snorkeling in Moalboal, known for its sardine run and vibrant coral reefs.

Need help in planning your 7-day itinerary to the Philippines?

Embark on a 7-day tour of the Philippines tailored to your interests, whether you're seeking cultural immersion, tropical relaxation, or heart-pumping adventures. Create your customized Philippines tour from our trusted travel experts, or if you have less or even more time to explore this diverse archipelago, check out our guide on how many days to spend in the Philippines. For more information for the Philippines one-week itinerary plans, check out our Philippines travel guide. For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit the Philippines.

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Plan a trip to PhilippinesWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to Philippines.
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