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

- Katie Savill
- From Wales
- Katie Savill
- From Wales
- Freya. M
- From
- Alicia. S
- From
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

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


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

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


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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