10 Day Philippine Itinerary
Explore the wonders of the Philippines with our comprehensive 10-day itinerary, featuring must-visit destinations, transportation tips, local delicacies, and unforgettable experiences. Plan your dream vacation today!
Wanderlust is a hard call to resist. So in this blog, we will tackle a tropical paradise that has captured the hearts of travelers from around the globe—the Philippines! A captivating archipelago boasting over 7000 islands of fun and adventure, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
If you’re just looking for the best places to visit and don’t want a day-by-day itinerary of the Philippines, check out this post on the must-visit places in the Philippines.
Exploring the Philippines in just 10 days might seem daunting, but with careful planning, you can experience the best of what this diverse archipelago has to offer. Divided into three main regions – Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao – each with its unique attractions, a whirlwind tour of the Philippines promises unforgettable experiences.
Day 1-2: Manila – Where History Meets Modernity
Did you know that Manila is one of the oldest cities in the Philippines, founded by Spanish conquistadors in 1571?
Start your journey by exploring the historic district of Intramuros, home to iconic landmarks like Fort Santiago, and Manila Cathedral. For a food crawl that infuses history, visit Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world. For a taste of modern Manila, head to Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and explore its trendy cafes and shops, or visit Poblacion, where many cool hangout spots are located, in Makati, the business center of the Philippines.
Indulge in local delicacies like chicken adobo at Abe Restaurant in BGC or crispy pata at Barrio Fiesta in Malate. Don’t miss trying halo-halo, a refreshing Filipino dessert, at Razon’s or Chowking.
Rest and relax at the centrally located Okada Manila or the luxurious Peninsula Manila in Makati. Both hotels offer comfortable accommodations and easy access to public transport.
Getting around Manila is easy with jeepneys, taxis, and ride-hailing apps like Grab. The MRT and LRT also provide convenient transportation options for exploring the city.
Day 3-5: Luzon – Nature’s Playground
Luzon is the largest island in the Philippines and is known for its diverse landscapes, including stunning beaches, lush mountains, and picturesque rice terraces.
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Tagaytay, a city two hours south of Manila, and marvel at the stunning views of Taal Volcano from Tagaytay Ridge. Visit the historic town of Taal and wander through its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture.
From Tagaytay, you can either drive to another trendy spot called Nuvali where shops and exciting restaurants await, or straight to Batangas, a nearby province that boasts of a rich marina.
Indulge in local delicacies like bulalo (beef marrow soup) at Leslie’s Restaurant or tawilis (freshwater fish) at Sonia’s Garden in Alfonso. Don’t miss trying kapeng barako (local coffee) at Bag of Beans.
Stay at the charming Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay or the cozy Balai Taal in Taal town in Batangas. Both hotels offer comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Buses and vans connect Manila to Tagaytay and Batangas, making it easy to explore Luzon’s attractions. Tricycles and jeepneys are common modes of transport for getting around local towns.
Day 6-8: Visayas – Island Paradise Awaits
Visayas is an archipelago of islands located in the central part of the Philippines, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
Explore the white sandy beaches of Boracay and enjoy water activities like snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. Or if you’re not into the sea scene, you can detour to the historic city of Iloilo and explore its Spanish colonial architecture and delicious food scene.
Indulge in local delicacies like fresh seafood at D’Talipapa Market in Boracay or La Paz batchoy (noodle soup) at Ted’s Oldtimer Lapaz Batchoy in Iloilo City. Don’t miss trying mangoes from Guimaras, known as the sweetest in the Philippines. Take note also of piaya, a muscovado flatbread that is famous in Visayas. Go for the Bacolod chicken inasal as well, a special chicken barbecue recipe by the people from Visayas.
Stay at the beachfront Discovery Shores Boracay or the elegant Richmonde Hotel Iloilo. Both hotels offer luxurious accommodations and easy access to local attractions.
Ferries and domestic flights connect Manila to Boracay and Iloilo, making it easy to explore the islands of Visayas. Tricycles and habal-habal motorcycles are popular modes of transport for getting around local towns.
Day 9-10: Mindanao – Explore the Southern Frontier
Mindanao is the second-largest island in the Philippines and is known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food.
Explore the natural wonders of Davao, including the majestic Mount Apo and the picturesque Eden Nature Park. Visit the vibrant city of Cagayan de Oro and experience adrenaline-pumping activities like whitewater rafting and ziplining.
Indulge in local delicacies like durian at Magsaysay Park in Davao or kinilaw (ceviche) at Boy Zugba in Cagayan de Oro. Don’t miss trying pastil, a traditional Muslim dish made with rice and meat, in Cotabato City.
Stay at the luxurious Marco Polo Davao or the cozy Seda Centrio in Cagayan de Oro. Both hotels offer comfortable accommodations and highly accessible by public transport and to local attractions.
Domestic flights connect Manila to Davao and Cagayan de Oro, making it easy to explore Mindanao. Taxis and jeepneys are common modes of transport for getting around local cities.
Pro Tips
The Philippines has a tropical, humid climate, so it’s important to hydrate well, especially when exploring outdoor attractions! Pack light and wear light. Be respectful of the local culture and customs, and always ask permission before taking photos of people or religious sites.
7641 islands, 7641 reasons to love the Philippines!
With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, the Philippines offers an unforgettable travel experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Manila, relaxing on the beaches of Boracay, or trekking through the mountains of Mindanao, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s hit the road and see the captivating beauty of the Philippines!
