The Philippines is nothing short of paradise on earth. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful country, it can get quite overwhelming, as there are so many islands and incredible places to discover. This is why I have put together the 2 weeks in Philippines itinerary, which will cover all the places you need to visit on your 2 week trip to the Philippines.
In the Philippines, tropical lifestyle blends with the friendly locals, creating the ideal place to spend your holiday. Of course, you could spend months travelling around the Philippines, but 2 weeks is the perfect amount of time to give you a good idea of the country and to visit the main places. Whether you are obsessed with history, want to dive or snorkel, or simply want to discover some of the most beautiful beaches on earth, you will find something for you in this itinerary.
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Boracay (2 days)
Boracay is paradise on earth. When you think of the Philipines, you think of white sandy beaches, palm trees, and turquoise waters. But you probably do not think about luxury hotels and water that looks just like the Maldives.
Boracay is a perfect place to start your 2 weeks in Philippines itinerary. As you arrive to this tropical island, you are greeted with the most pristine beaches, welcoming smiles of the locals, and of course a fresh coconut.
How to get to Boracay
✈️ The easiest and most time efficient way to get to Boracay is to fly there. However, bear in mind that there are two airports in Boracay: Kalibo International Airport (KLO) and the Caticlan and Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (MPH).
We flew into MPH as we found that this airport was closer to the island.
Where to stay in Boracay
Sur Beach Resort Boracay ($)
You can definitely find luxury on a budget in the Philippines, and this hotel is proof of that.
Starting from just £60 per night, Sur Beach Resort Boracay offers a beachfront location, comfortable rooms and a great on-site restaurant.
This is the perfect hotel to stay at if you want to spend your time exploring everything Boracay has to offer as the location is not too far from the main attractions.
Movenpick Resort & Spa Boracay ($$)
The Movenpick is a mid-range lovely hotel that feels like a tropical paradise. The location of the resort is great, as it is located within a 15-minute walk to the famous Baling Hai Beach and the Diniwid Beach.
With an outdoor pool and perfectly spacious rooms with a view, the Movenpick is the perfect option if you are looking for a nice hotel but don’t want to splurge too much.
Shangri-La Boracay ($$$)
We stayed at the Shangri La and absolutely loved it. The hotel includes a boat transfer and when you arrive, you are greeted with performers with drums to welcome you.
The facilities at the hotel are of course amazing and luxury, with the most amazing breakfast buffet from Asian to European food. There is also a 1148 foot private beachfront, 2 stunning outdoor pools and spacious guest rooms and villas. The hotel has 4 restaurants and 2 bars, so you will definitely find everything you need here without having to leave the hotel.
It is an ideal place to stay especially if you are travelling as a couple or looking for a more upscale hotel.
Things to do in Boracay
Visit the White Beach
White beach is the most famous beach in Boracay. Known for its pristine white sand and crystal clear water, it could even be said that this is the best beach in the Philippines.
Do not miss the chance to come here and to relax by the beach, snorkel or walk along the shore. There are also some watersports that you can do here and make sure to stay for sunset as it is really spectacular here.
Visit D’Mall
Boracay is famous for its nightlife and party scene, so if you want to experience the vibrant soul of the island, head to D’Mall.
Located on White Beach, this is where you will find lots of restaurants, souvenir shops, entertainment and much more.
Willy’s Rock for sunset
If you want to watch the most spectacular sunset in Boracay (which you should – as Boracay is known for these!), head to Willy’s Rock around sunset time.
The views from Willy’s Rock are absolutely spectacular, offering a view to the beach and the sea. Visit here during the day for some pictures or to catch the famous Boracay sunset.
Diniwid Beach
If you want to avoid crowds and visit a less touristy beach on the island, head to Diniwid Beach. This beach is located only a 10 minute walk from White Beach so it is easily accessible. You can relax, enjoy watersports, snorkel, and watch the sunset here.
El Nido (4 days)
El Nido was our favourite place on the whole trip. This is a paradise island located in Palawan, with the most beautiful beaches, sunsets, and a very diverse marine life. It is a popular place among backpackers and travellers seeking adventure and natural beauty.
I would recommend staying 4 days here out of your 2 weeks Philippines itinerary to be able to relax and enjoy, while making the most of your visit to this stunning island.
How to get to El Nido
There are a couple different ways to fly to El Nido:
✈️ Fly straight to El Nido Airport with Air Swift. There are direct flights from Manila, Boracay and other places in the Philippines, bit these flights are not every day so make sure to check the schedule when planning. We chose this option as we were had limited time so wanted to get to El Nido as soon as possible. This is also the most convenient option so if you can, it is definitely best to fly directly to El Nido.
✈️ Fly to Puerto Princessa where flights are more regular and take a 5 hour bus or transfer to El Nido. Depending on your group size, you can get a private transfer and split the cost.
Where to stay in El Nido
Dengi Inn El Nido ($)
This hotel is perfect for you if you are travelling on a budget and looking for a clean and affordable accommodation for your stay in El Nido.
Located 300 meters from El Nido beach, the hotel offers mountain view rooms, continental breakfast, free wifi, and room cleaned every 2 days. The location is great as it is located in a less busy area of the town.
Panorama El Nido ($$)
Staying at Panorama was definitely one of the highlights of our trip.
Facing the sea, the hotel has the best sunset views you will find anywhere on the island. El Nido has some of the best sunsets in the world and the beach club of Panorama offers the perfect viewing spot.
The hotel also has an amazing Spanish restaurant (approved by the Spaniards on our trip), a perfect breakfast selection, a pool, massages and laundry on request.
Cauayan Island Resort and Spa ($$$)
If you are looking for a more high end and luxury stay, then you will want to go with Cauayan Island Resort and Spa.
This resort is an experience in itself, and staying here is a true tropical heaven. From around £600 a night, guests can enjoy access to the stunning infinity pool and a restaurant on site.
The private villas face the beach and are ideal for couples on their honeymoon or just a romantic stay.
Things to do in El Nido
Island hopping tours
The most popular activity to do in El Nido is to do an island hopping tour. There are multiple tours you can do that take you to different locations – tours A, B, C and D. We chose to do Tour A as this is the most popular and most recommended tour. We saw spots such as the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Seven Commandos Beach and more.
If you are staying in El Nido for 4 days or longer, I would recommend doing tours A and C to see some of the most beautiful places in the Philippines.
Explore the town
The town in El Nido is charming and lively in the evenings, with lots of restaurants, bars and clubs. We spent almost every evening here, and the restaurants we loved were Big Bad Thai and Gorgonzola Pizza.
We had the best time in town one night when we discovered Little Havanna Bar, a bar with cocktails and live music. The performers here were truly talented and we had the best time dancing till sunrise.
Go zip lining
If you are looking for an adventure or a unique experience, make sure to go zip lining at Las Cabanas beach. This is a great way to experience something unique and see the stunning beaches from above.
Visit Nacpan beach
This four-kilometer beach is the most beautiful beach in El Nido and definitely worth a visit if you have time. You can sunbathe here and simply soak in the stunning surroundings, or if you fancy water sports, you can also try surfing, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding.
Coron (4 days)
The next stop on your 2 weeks Philippines itinerary will be Coron. This stunning destination was probably the most impressive place on our itinerary. The nature of your stay here will be very similar to El Nido, as you go island hopping and discover the unbelievable places around.
Again, 4 days here is the perfect amount to make the most of the island hopping tours and discover top things to do in Coron.
How to get to Coron
It is quite easy to get from El Nido to Coron.
✈️ First option is to fly directly to Coron. This is what we did and it was very quick and easy.
🛳️ Second option is to take a ferry from El Nido to Coron. The fast ferry takes 6-7 hours so you will have to spare a day for transportation. This method of transport also gets booked out quickly so make sure to book in advance.
🛳️ The third option is to do one of the overnight tours from El Nido to Coron. If you have some more time, this is a great options as you get to see some incredible islands along the way.
Where to stay in Coron
Outpost Hostel ($)
This hostel is a fun and sociable place to stay if you are looking to meet other travelers. The dorms vary from mixed to private rooms, and there is also an infinity pool overlooking the islands.
The hostel has events and socials, as well as a bar that closes at 11 pm. There is also a front desk where you can arrange tours, activities, and get advice about your trip.
Zuri Resort ($$)
Zuri resort is where we stayed and had a comfortable and nice stay for a couple nights. The rooms here are very spacious and there is an infinity pool overlooking the sea.
The only downsides here were the construction site during our stay that was located in front of the hotel and that the breakfast was not the best.
However, this is still a nice hotel to stay at if you are looking for a mid-range comfortable hotel at a good location.
Two Seasons Resort ($$$)
This is the nicest hotel in Coron. It is the perfect option for you if you want comfort and luxury at the same time. There is a stunning infinity pool here too, offering amazing sunset views.
The hotel is also great as it has a dock so your tours will leave from right in front of the hotel. The staff are very nice and will treat you like royalty.
Things to do in Coron
Island hopping tour
In Coron, a must do activity is to do an island hopping tour. We did the “island super ultimate tour”, where you get taken to Kayangan lake, Barracuda lake, Twin Lagoon, and all the most impressive places in Coron. This tour was definitely one of our favourite things that we did in the Philippines and I highly recommend it.
Maquinit Hot Springs
As one of the few saltwater hot springs in the world, Maquinit Hot Springs is a truly unique place to visit in Coron. The water temperature ranges from 38 – 40° Celsius (102 – 104° F) and some people have claimed that the hot springs have healing properties. It is a great place to relax with friends and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Coron Bay Wrecks
One of the most unique things to do in Coron if you love diving is to dive to the Coron Bay Wrecks. The island is famous for its World War II shipwrecks submerged in Coron Bay, which includes Irako, Okikawa Maru, and the iconic sunken Japanese warship Kyokuzan Maru.
Coron town
Coron Town is a really nice place to discover. With its buzzing atmosphere, you will discover souvenir shops, restaurants and nice bars.
Some places we tried here include a rooftop bar called “Catch and release” and “Umamikusina” restaurant which served delicious local food including garlic rice and noodle dishes.
Cebu (2 days)
The next destination on your 2 weeks Philippines itinerary will be Cebu. This vibrant province offers a mix of culture, history, beaches and a lot more. It is the perfect place for a stop over before heading to your next destination as there are lots of transport and flight options in Cebu.
How to get to Cebu
✈️ If you are coming from Coron, you can take a direct flight to Cebu airport.
✈️ Depending on where you are coming from, you may not have the option of a direct flight to Cebu. In this case, you can either take a ferry or look for a connecting flight via Manilla.
Where to stay in Cebu
One Central Hotel & Suites ($)
This is a perfect hotel room if you are looking for a spacious and comfortable stay on a budget. With a 24 hour front desk, sea view and included breakfast, you cannot go wrong with this hotel.
Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mandaue City ($$)
For a comfortable stay near the city, this hotel is a great option. Their rooms are spacious and clean, with friendly staff and a modern design. The hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and a restaurant.
Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu ($$$)
The Shangri-La in Cebu feels like transporting to a tropical paradise. There is an outdoor pool, 9 dining options, and one of the largest spas in Asia is also located here.
The hotel is spread over two wings and offers a well equipped gym and tennis courts.
Things to do in Cebu
Explore Cebu City
Cebu city is full of history, and there is a lot to see and discover here especially if you love history. Make sure to visit Magellan’s Cross, a landmark where Christianity made the introduction to the Philippines. You can also explore Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country. The Fort San Pedro, a well preserved military structure, is worth visiting too.
Swim with whale sharks in Oslob
Swimming with whale sharks is one of the main reasons why people want to visit Cebu. These gentle giants are extremely impressive to see in person as they can get as big as a really big bus. The reason they come here is due to local fishermen that feed them so the experience is really unique and special.
Visit Moalboal
Moalboal is a tiny resort town near Cebu, famous for its sardine run experience.This is another unique experience to do here in Cebu, and if not the beach is still worth visiting to relax at due to its white sand and clear water.
Island hopping tour
There are many hidden gems around Cebu that you can explore if you have the time. Malapascua Island is an amazing place to visit, known for diving and thresher sharks. You can also take a trip to Hilutungan island for snorkelling and relaxing.
Canyoneering
Canyoneering at the beautiful turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls is a very popular activity in Cebu. However, it is not for the faint-hearted. Put your courage to the test as you jump from 30-foot high cliffs and swim through rapids. The tours usually also provide a lunchtime stopover and lots of photo opportunities.
Try the street food
Sugbo Mercado is where you will find the best street food in Cebu. You can try many unique local dishes here, such as fish balls, pork somai, chicken inasal and more.
Siargao (2 days)
Known as the “surfing capital of the Philippines”, Siargao is an island that has become very popular among travellers in the last few years. The island is unique and different from the others as it combines white sand beaches and lagoons with surfing waves.
This is the perfect place to visit for nature and adventure lovers, or those seeking an escape from every day life. If you do decide to visit this amazing island, I promise it will not disappoint you.
How to get to Siargao
✈️ The easiest way to get to Siargao is to fly. There are daily direct flights available from Cebu, Davao and Manila.
🛳️ You can take an indirect ferry from Cebu which takes about 11 hours.
Where to stay in Siargao
Tropical Temple Siargao Resort ($)
From mixed dorm rooms to private rooms, this is the perfect place to stay at if you are looking for a nice stay on a budget. It also has an outdoor pool perfect for hot sunny days. A lot of guests also noted that it was a very peaceful but also a social stay.
Mango Tree Siargao ($$)
If you are travelling as a group, this option may be perfect for you. The Mango Tree offers stunning luxury villas with an infinity pool and stylish, modern rooms. The villa offers bike rental and car rentals, as well as a la carte breakfast evert morning.
This is the perfect mix of the luxury and comfort of staying at a hotel and the privacy of your own villa.
Nay Palad Hideaway – All Inclusive Stay ($$$)
This luxury all inclusive hotel is perfect for families and those looking for a luxurious getaway. Staying here feels like a tropical luxury paradise. There is a private beach area, and guests can enjoy complimentary sports and activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, surfing, island hopping and cycling.
Things to do in Siargao
Island hopping tour
One of the most popular activities in Siargao is going island hopping to Guyam, Daku and Naked Island. You can arrange the tours through your hotel or tour operator providers such as Get Your Guide and Viator.
Surfing
Whether you are a beginner or a pro surfer, Siargao is the perfect place to practice your surf skills. Grab a board and head to Santa Fe Paradise or Cloud 9 to tackle the waves. If you aren’t confident enough, there are many surf schools in the area where you can learn how to surf.
Sugba Lagoon
Sugba Lagoon is a natural wonder that attracts tourists from all over the world. Surrounded with clear turquoise waters and mangrove trees, this is the perfect spot to snorkel, relax and discover the marine life. There are also water sports offered here such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
Cloud 9
This spot is one not to miss in Siargao, as it has internationally been recognised as one of the best surfing spots in the Philippines and even the world. Cloud 9 gained widespread recognition through the annual Siargao International Surfing Cup, a prestigious surfing competition that attracts top surfers worldwide.
There is a boardwalk located above the water, offering the perfect spot to watch surfers. Come here during sunset to see the most beautiful views.
Tak Tak waterfall
This is the only waterfall in Siargao and can be visited as part of a day trip. It is located 1.5 hours away from Siargao but definitely worth the journey. You can do cliff jumping, tree jumping and explore the waterfall from the top. It is an ideal spot for those seeking fun and adventure.
If you have more time…
Manila
If you have time before or after your 2 weeks Philippines itinerary, Manila is definitely worth a visit.
Stay 1 or 2 nights here to explore the cultural heritage, taste the local cuisine and discover the vibrant nightlife this city has to offer.
How to get to Manila
✈️ Manila is the biggest city in the Philippines so there are direct flights here from most places. This is also where all international flights depart and land.
Where to stay in Manila
City Garden Grand Hotel ($)
With an outdoor rooftop swimming pool and luxurious rooms, this hotel feels like luxury on a budget. The location is in a very lively area, surrounded by shops, restaurants and nightlife spots. The roof of the hotel also offers some of the best views in the city.
Novotel Manila Araneta City Hotel ($$)
Located in the heart of the city, this is the perfect hotel if you are looking to explore the city without sacrificing comfort. It has an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a grand ballroom.
Shangri-La The Fort, Manila ($$$)
The Shangri-La needs no introduction, and this hotel in Manila lives up to its reputation. Located right in the city of Taguig, the hotel has two outdoor pools and several dining option. If you are looking for a hotel which is an experience in itself, this is the one to choose.
Things to do in Manila
Explore Intramuros
Explore the historic walled city of Intramuros, immersing yourself in the architecture from the colonial era. This is where the government was located when Philippines was under the Spanish rule. Do not miss the famous landmarks Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church.
Rizal Park
Visit Rizal Park, a park dedicated to the national hero Jose Rizal. The park is great to discover as it features concert halls, food stalls, fountains, and much more.
Try local food at Binondo
If you want to try local food, head to Binondo. This is the Chinatown in Manila and is considered to have been the world’s first Chinatown. If time allows, you can do a food tour where you can try all the local dishes.
Bohol
Like much of the Philippines, this island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush nature, and jungles. However, this is probably the most adventurous island in the Philippines so it is great to spend a few days here during your 2 weeks Philippines itinerary if you love adventure.
How to get to Bohol
✈️ There are daily flights from Manila or Cebu City to Tagbilaran City, the airport in Bohol. The airlines that fly here include Philippines Airlines, Cebu Pacific or Asian Spirit.
🛳️ You can also fly to Cebu City and take a ferry to Bohol.
Where to stay in Bohol
Island World Panglao ($)
This is the perfect budget stay in Bohol. Every room has a balcony and all guests have access to an outdoor pool. The location is also great as the property is located not far from Danao and Alona Beach and it is perfect as a starting place for your activities.
Delicious breakfast, aircon and garden view also included.
Amorita Resort ($$)
Staying at this resort feels like being transported into a tropical paradise. The hotel has incredible facilities such as an outdoor infinity pool and in-house dive shop. You can also rent mountain bikes, kayaks and paddle boards so being here feels like a combination of peace and quiet with a lot of activities if you wish to partake in them.
Modala Beach Resort ($$$)
Located in a beachfront with plenty of watersport options, Modara beach Resort is ideal for relaxing by the beach and getting into true vacation mode. The facilities also include an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness centre and a garden.
Things to do in Bohol
Chocolate Hills
The most well known thing to see here are the chocolate hills. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Sight, with more than 1,000 identical mounds emerge from the ground. There is a special viewing area for tourists where you can observe them from. The name “chocolate hills” comes from the fact that they turn into a cocoa shade during the hot season.
See tarsiers
If it has been your dream to see tarsiers in person, then Bohol is where you will find them. Known for their huge eyes, they live in a large protected forest but Bohol is the best place to spot them. The name of the place is Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary and definitely one for your bucket list.
Hinagdanan Cave
If you have had enough of beaches and lagoons, head to Hinagdanan Cave. This unique place is popular due to its very blue water. You can do a tour here and even have the chance to swim.
Dolphin watching
Bohol is also the best island in the Philippines to go Dolphin watching. Pamilacan Island is a popular spot where they can be found jumping and playing around at dusk or dawn.
Siquijor
Siquijor is another paradise island in the Philippines with impressive waterfalls, pristine beaches, lush forests of palm trees and lots more. There is an abundance of things to do here, and if you are seeking an island slightly less visited by tourists, you may want to add this one to your 2 week Philippines itinerary.
How to get to Siquijor
✈️ There are regular flights to Siquijor airport through Philippines Airlines and Cebu Pacific Airlines. This is the quickest and also the most expensive way to get to the island.
🛳️ If you are travelling from Bohol, you can take an Ocean Jets ferry which has regular daily departures and takes around 2 hours. You can book it here.
🛳️ If you are travelling from Cebu, you can also take a direct Maayo Shipping Ferry from Liloan Port which takes around 3 hours.
Where to stay in Siquijor
Jungle KingDomes Guest House ($)
This is the most unique place to stay in Siquijor. Tucked into the jungle, you will have your own bungalow with a garden to relax in. There is a shared kitchen and a bar, as well as a cinema in the middle of the jungle. This is the perfect hotel if you are looking for something unusual!
Nakabalo Guesthouse & Restaurant ($$)
With an ooutdoor swimming pool, a garden and a terrace, this accommodation is made up of cosy cottages in the jungle. The views from here are breathtaking and the food at offer is very delicious. You will feel welcomed by the lovely staff from the moment you walk in.
South Mountain Resort ($$$)
This is a great option to stay at whether you are planning to stay for a long or short amount of time. They have rooms that resemble apartments, fitted with a kitchen in case you are staying for a while. There is an infinity pool overlooking the jungle views and the sea, with the best sunset views. This is ideal for families, couples, and groups.
Things to do in Siquijor
Cambugahay Falls
The most popular waterfall in Siquijor, this waterfall has 3 levels with bamboo rafts and swings. The entry costs 20 PHP (around $1). Because the waterfall is so popular, it does get crowded so make sure to get here early if you want to avoid the crowds.
Salagdoong Beach
This beach is not only beautiful, but also offers three opportunities for cliff jumping. There is also a restaurant on this beach where you can buy food and drinks. It is not the most popular beach on the island so it does not get as busy as some of the others, so it makes for a perfect getaway from crowds.
Tulapos Marine Sanctuary
Another unique activity to tick off your Philippines bucket list can be found here – you can swim with barracudas! These are gentle giants and won’t hurt you but it is amazing to see them swimming alongside you.
Paliton Beach
This is the most well known beach in Siquijor. It is located in the town of San Juan, so it is accessible and very easy to reach. You can relax here in the day and watch the sunset in the evening.
Final thoughts…
I hope that this post has been helpful in planning your 2 weeks Philippines itinerary. There is a lot to see and do in the Philippines. The country has some of the most incredible beaches I have ever seen, the most unique marine life, caves, waterfalls, and so much more.
Let me know if you found this useful and if there is any other place you would add to the itinerary!
