The Ultimate 3-Week Philippines Itinerary: BEST Islands & Route

The Philippines is one of those countries that feels like paradise. With its 7,641 islands, each more beautiful than the last, you'll find palm trees, incredible beaches, incredible wildlife, and some of the friendliest locals you'll ever meet.

On top of that, the Philippines has such an incredibly interesting mix of cultures due to its rich history of colonization. You'll find influences from the Spanish and the Americans everywhere in the county.

After getting back from my three-week adventure in the Philippines, I absolutely fell in love with the country. I had an amazing time island hopping, hiking, surfing, and diving.

To make it easier for you to have an incredible trip, and to take away some of the stress of planning, I want to share my three-week Philippines travel itinerary with you.

3 week Philippines itinerary

Traveling around for three weeks in the Philippines can be a bit more challenging and time-consuming compared to other countries. You'll find yourself island hopping quite a bit, which means taking several flights or ferries throughout your journey to get to your next destination. 

Three weeks in the Philippines may not be sufficient to explore the entire country, but it's definitely more than enough time to experience all the highlights and have an amazing time.

Day 1: Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is where most people start their journey. However, some of may not really enjoy Manila because it's a massive city and might not be what you're looking for when you see the beaches and crystal clear water of the Philippines.

However, if you're up for it and have enough time, you can actually have an amazing first evening in Manila before heading out to the islands in the morning. You can dive right into trying some mouthwatering traditional Filipino cuisine. Toyo Eatery and Balai Palma are two excellent dining options to start off your journey.

There are plenty of different neighborhoods and areas to stay in Manila. To help you find the perfect hotel, make sure to check out my guide on where to stay in Manila.

Day 2-3: Cebu

When you arrive in Cebu City on day 2, you'll want to head straight from the airport to Moalboal via bus or taxi. It's a beautiful beach town on the west side of Cebu island, and that's where you'll be spending two days.

Take some time to relax on White Beach and soak up the stunning views. After a few days of city life and traveling, it's the perfect way to unwind.

If you're up for some adventure, exploring the underwater world around Moalboal is a must. I highly recommend going scuba diving. 

Savedra Dive Shop is a fantastic place to book a dive, whether you're a beginner or already certified. They can even help you get your diving certificates done.

On your second day, get ready for some action. You'll be heading to Badain to go canyoneering. Along the way, you'll have the chance to climb, swim, slide, and jump off rocks in the Badain River.

Finally, you'll reach Kawasan Falls, Cebu's famous three-cascade waterfall, where you can cliff jump into turquoise pools from heights of up to 6 meters.

Alternative: Oslob

Instead of scuba diving and canyoneering in Moalboal, another option is to head straight from the airport in Cebu City to Oslob. Oslob is well-known for swimming with whale sharks. Just a heads up, I want to mention this as an alternative and not as my actual recommendation because there has been some criticism about swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. It's not entirely considered ethically correct to interfere with their natural habitat, so it's up to you to make that decision.

But don't worry, even if you're not going to Oslob, you still have a chance to see one of those magnificent creatures while scuba diving or snorkeling in Moalboal, if you're lucky!

If you're planning to visit Oslob, Moalboal, or any other town in Cebu, and you want to find the perfect place to stay, make sure to check out my guide on where to stay in Cebu Island.

Day 4-6: Bohol

Your next stop after Cebu is going to be Bohol Island, just a short 2-hour ferry ride away. You can easily purchase your tickets online. Once you're there, you'll most likely be staying on Panglao Island, a small island connected to the main island of Bohol via a bridge.

Bohol is packed with cool things to do and it's been one of my real highlights in the Philippines. You absolutely must see the famous Chocolate Hills in Bohol. This geological formation in the center of Bohol consists of over 1200 hills and it's incredible to see from above. The entrance to the Chocolate Hills is super cheap, only 50 pesos, and it's just a 2-hour taxi or scooter ride from Panglao Island.

Alternatively, you could join a half-day tour like this one that will include transport and a guide.

Another highlight of visiting Bohol is seeing the Philippine Tarsier. It's the world's smallest primate and one of the cutest animals you'll ever see. You can visit a conservation center to get up close and personal with these little guys safely and ethically, ensuring no harm is done to them while also having an educational experience.

FYI: If you ever see Tarsiers held in cages outside the conservation center, that's not okay and those people shouldn't be supported.

Check out my guide on where to stay in Bohol to discover the perfect accommodation that suits you best.

Day 7-9: Siquijor

It's super easy to hop on over to your next destination, the charming and laid-back island of Siquijor.

While still somewhat off the beaten path, it's gradually becoming more developed. Just a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Bohol Island, you can easily book your tickets here.

Siquijor is the perfect place to take a break from all the hustle and bustle and simply unwind. It's smaller and less crowded than other islands, making it ideal for exploring on a scooter. Even if you're not the most confident driver, it's a great spot to practice since there's not much traffic around.

The best part? You can circle the entire island in just about 2 hours!

FYI: You can easily rent the scooters right from the harbor, and they should cost around 350 – 500 PHP (US$6-9), depending on the season.

When it's time for a relaxing beach day in Siquijor, make sure to visit my favorite spots: Paliton Beach and Tubod Beach.

Paliton Beach offers crystal clear waters for swimming and you might even spot some starfish, which is super cool. On the other hand, Tubod Beach has a long stretch of white sand, perfect for sunbathing. Just a heads up, there's a marine sanctuary in front of the beach, so I recommend not swimming there to protect the corals and marine life.

One activity you definitely should do is chase some of the best waterfalls on the island, such as Cambugahay Falls and Lugnason Falls. Cambugahay Falls is a popular tourist attraction, so don't expect a hidden and secluded waterfall.

However, you can definitely expect to capture some super cool pictures on one of the bamboo rafts right in front of the waterfall. On the other hand, if you're looking for a hidden and secluded waterfall, then you should check out Lugnason Falls.

Day 10-13: Boracay

Our next day is going to be all about travel. You'll be heading back by ferry from Siquijor to Cebu, and then catching a flight from Cebu to Caticlan, which is the closest airport to your dreamy destination, Boracay.

And guess what? From Caticlan, you can easily hop on a ferry straight to Boracay!

Boracay is where you'll have the ultimate beach vacation, with some of the best beachfront resorts in the Philippines. Let me tell you about two of my favorite resorts: The Lind Boracay and the Henann Prime Beach Resort. Trust me, they're both amazing luxury resorts with amazing facilities, from swimming pools to spas.

If you're looking for other accommodation options and different resorts in Boracay, check out my hotel guide to Boracay. It's got all the insider info you need. 

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, Boracay is the perfect destination for island hopping! You can join one of the Island Hopping tours, which you can easily book here ahead of time.

Get ready to explore the surrounding islands and beaches like Crystal Cove Island, Crocodile Island, Magic Island, Puka Beach, and Balinghai Beach. You'll have a great time sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a delicious lunch and refreshing drinks in different locations.

Alternative: Siargao

Prefer fun-filled and adventurous days over the resort island of Boracay, I've got the perfect alternative: Siargao!

Siargao is potentially the most beautiful island out of all of them. Unlike Boracay's luxury resorts, Siargao is all about laid-back surfer towns and charming beach shacks. Personally, I love both islands, but for very different reasons.

Siargao is the real deal if you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path and relaxed island experience. With its palm trees, white sand beaches, and popularity among travelers and backpackers, it's a true gem.

Surfing takes center stage here, earning it the title of Surfing Capital of the Philippines. But don't worry, there are plenty of other activities like diving and island hopping to keep you entertained. And let me tell you, Siargao has so many hidden secret beaches and lagoons just waiting to be explored.

One of my favorite spots during these adventures is the rope swing at Maasin Secret River. It's like a hidden gem and the perfect spot to snap an epic Instagram pic. Trust me, you'll love it!

Day 14-18: Palawan (El Nido)

Whether you're heading to Boracay for a relaxing resort break or Siargao to catch some waves at the Cloud 9 surf break, you can fly from either island to Puerto Princesa, which is your gateway to the beautiful Palawan Island.

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan, but the real gem is El Nido! You'll want to hop on a bus or taxi and make your way there as quickly as possible. It's an absolute highlight of this whole itinerary. You'll be spending the next few days in El Nido, and let me tell you, there are so many incredible things to see and do.

In El Nido, island hopping is the ultimate highlight. With countless stunning islands to explore, you'll have plenty of options for your days. I recommend joining at least one or even two of the island hopping boat tours. Yes, you heard right – there are multiple options! Since there are so many different islands, one tour just won't do. That's why they offer tours of different islands.

El Nido Island Hopping A

This is without a doubt the most popular tour in El Nido, and if you're only joining one tour, this should be it!

Island Hopping Tour A takes you on an adventure around Miniloc Island where you'll discover the Secret Lagoon, kayak in the stunning and popular Big Lagoon, have a delicious lunch at Shimizu Island, and experience the breathtaking sunset at Seven-Commando Beach. The tours start from El Nido in the morning, last about 5 hours, and will bring you back to El Nido around 4 pm. 

The cost for this amazing tour is approximately $23, and you can easily book it here.

El Nido Island Hopping B

This tour is absolutely amazing because you'll also have the opportunity to explore some of the breathtaking caves on the nearby islands. You'll sail to the picturesque Snake Island, the enchanting Entalula Island, the movie-like Pinagbuyutan Island, and the fascinating Cathedral & Cudugnon Caves. Snorkeling equipment, a delicious lunch, and refreshing drinking water are, of course, included. 

The cost for this incredible tour is approximately US$26 and can be booked right here.

El Nido Island Hopping C

Tour C is definitely one of the most popular tours because here you'll get the full paradise experience with amazing hidden beaches and incredible snorkeling spots. Discover Hidden and Secret Beach, snorkel at Matinloc Shrine and explore stunning Tapiutan and Helicopter Island. Plus, there's a big chance to see turtles on this tour in the Philippines.

This tour is usually a little more expensive, up to $30, but trust me, as my personal favorite, it's well worth the money. You can easily book it right here.

El Nido Island Hopping D

This tour is absolutely awesome because not only do you get to go snorkeling, but it also includes some kayaking!

You'll have a blast swimming in the famous Small Lagoon, exploring the beautiful beaches of Cadlao Island (perfect for snorkeling), and checking out Pasandigan Cove, Nat Nat Beach, and Bukal Island. 

It's usually around $30, and you can book it here. 

El Nido Island Hopping Private Tour

The best way to do it, however, is to have your very own private tour. If you want to experience the best of all worlds, you can book a custom-made island hopping tour just for you. This incredible adventure includes all the amazing spots mentioned above, plus some extra secret places. 

The boats usually fit up to 6 people and can be chartered at the El Nido Art Cafe.

Clear Kayak

If you've had enough of boat tours and want to explore the surrounding islands on your own or with your partner, renting a clear kayak with a transparent bottom is the way to go. It lets you discover some amazing spots around El Nido without needing a guide.

You can easily rent these kayaks at the El Nido Art Cafe and have a blast exploring the waters. Don't miss out on visiting cool spots like Rainbow Beach and Seven Commandos Beach.

If you're wondering where to stay in El Nido, I've got you covered. Check out my El Nido guide for my top picks in different areas and hotels that suit every budget.

Day 19-20: Coron

From El Nido Town, it's just a 4-hour boat ride to your next and final destination before heading back to Manila.

That destination is the charming little fisher village of Coron. Technically part of Palawan, Coron has its own island and used to be part of the Philippines Island Hopping Tours in El Nido.

But it became so popular that tourists now go straight to Coron to explore all the highlights of the island separately.

The best way to explore Coron is by joining one of the boat tours around the island. These tours will take you to some of the coolest spots:

• Kayangan Lake: Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of this lake. It's accessible by a 10-minute climb and its crystal-clear water is located on a mountain wall, giving it a moonscape-like appearance. There's even a wooden pathway and platform for your belongings while you swim.

• CYC Beach: A must-visit beach on the tour, CYC Beach doesn't require an entrance fee. With its long stretch of shoreline, it's perfect for swimming. The beach offers picturesque views, unique rock formations, beautiful mangrove trees, and powdery white sand for sunbathing.

• Sunset Beach: As the name suggests, this beach is known for its stunning sunset views. It's a great spot to enjoy your lunch while taking in the beauty of the surroundings. The beach itself boasts crystal-clear water and a beautiful coastline.

• La Islas de Coral: Just a short swim from CYC Beach, you'll find Las Islas de Coral, a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. Just be cautious of sea urchins on the floor. This area is rich in colorful corals and diverse marine life.

On your second day in Coron, it's totally worth exploring Coron town. When I visited, I rented a scooter to check out the surroundings and headed straight to Cabo Beach. It's usually very empty, making it a great spot to relax in the morning away from the crowds. The scooter rental for the day should cost around 500 PHP, and the entrance to Cabo Beach is as cheap as 50 PHP.

After that, I suggest heading back to town for lunch, and my favorite spot is Cafe Socorro. They have a great selection, from super fresh smoothie bowls and juices to sandwiches. Plus, they serve up a good cup of coffee too.

For the evening, make your way to Mt. Tapayas, which is Coron's best viewpoint. Hiking up takes a while as it's stairs leading up with a total of 750 steps. I recommend starting your hike around 4-5 p.m. to be rewarded with the best sunset views on the island.

Coming back from Mt. Tapayas after sunset, and let me tell you, you'll be hungry! There's no place in Coron as fantastic as Trattoria Altore. Having spent some time in Coron, I can honestly say that this is the absolute best Italian restaurant in town. They offer an incredibly delicious spaghetti bolognese, and their pizzas and wines are simply on point.

However, it's no secret that it's the most popular restaurant in town, so it gets quite busy every night without fail. I suggest arriving before 7 p.m so you won't have to wait too long in line. Unfortunately, they don't take reservations.

Day 21: Manila

On your last day, you can easily catch a flight back from Coron to Manila. There are plenty of frequent flights, so ideally, you can fly from Coron to Manila and then straight back home. 

Just make sure to leave enough time between flights for any typical airport delays and security.

You can also choose to spend another whole day in Manila and explore some of the amazing restaurants and activities here. If you're curious about what to do in the Philippines' capital, don't forget to check out my guide on things to do in Manila.

Philippines Pre-Travel Facts

Before traveling to the Philippines, make sure you're well-prepared with everything you need to know. Figure out the best way to get there, the ideal time to visit, how you'll be getting around, the estimated expenses, and the visa process. Don't worry, I've been through it all, so I'll gladly answer your questions to make it a little easier for you!

❓How to get to the Philippines

Manila International Airport (MNL) is the main entry and exit point for most people, with direct flights from some countries and connecting flights from elsewhere. If you're visiting the Philippines while already traveling in Southeast Asia, you can also fly to other airports within the country, such as Cebu Airport.

📆 Best time to visit the Philippines

The best time to visit the Philippines depends on which islands you're planning to visit and what kind of weather you prefer. Generally, it's best to avoid the monsoon season between June and October as some parts of the country are prone to flooding. 

The most popular months for visiting the Philippines are February to May, when there is less chance of rain and temperatures in coastal areas average around 29 degrees Celsius.

However, make sure to do some research on which islands you're exactly planning on visiting. El Nido in Palawan and Siargao are quite far away from each other and could have completely different weather when you're visiting.

🚗 How to get around in the Philippines

Getting around in the Philippines is not as easy as in Thailand as you usually have to trip back to Manila as a hub, but there are plenty of different and affordable ways to explore this beautiful country. The only thing to keep in mind is that travel can be time-consuming at times, so make sure to plan accordingly. You might even find yourself spending entire days just traveling between places, but hey, it's all part of the adventure!

• By Plane: The most convenient way to travel from one island to another is by taking a domestic flight. There are plenty of budget-friendly airlines that offer direct flights and packages between the major cities.

• By Van/Bus: For longer distances, I suggest taking a bus or van, especially on bigger islands like Palawan or Cebu. That's the easiest and most affordable way to get from A to B, especially when coming or going from the airport. It's much cheaper than paying for a private driver or taxi.

• By Boat: If you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of boat trips available to explore the islands from coast to coast. You can book day trips or multiple overnight stays on board with guided tour operators. 

• By Scooter: For shorter distances, the most popular option is to rent a scooter or motorbike. It's fun and usually quite cheap — just make sure you wear a helmet and drive responsibly.

☀️ Is the Philippines safe to travel?

Absolutely! The Philippines is generally a safe place to travel. Just keep an eye on your belongings and take the same precautions you would in any other country. Keep your wallet in your front pocket or a money belt, and leave valuable items like passports locked up at home or in your hotel room. Also, when exploring less-populated areas alone, it's always a good idea to travel in groups rather than by yourself.

✅ Costs in the Philippines

The Philippines is incredibly popular among backpackers for a reason – it's super affordable! Depending on where you're staying, your daily expenses could range anywhere between US$20 to $60.

Accommodation in the Philippines is very reasonably priced. You can find a cozy room in a hostel for around US$10-$15, and even less if you explore local Airbnbs or homestays. Plus, the food is super cheap, you can enjoy a delicious meal on the street for less than $5!

If you're planning to do any activities, like snorkeling or diving, or a day trip then they usually cost around US$30-$50 per day. And if you want to rent a scooter to explore the islands, that should only set you back anywhere between 200-1000 PHP per day. All in all, the Philippines is a fantastic place to travel on a budget!

And even if you're looking into a nice beach vacation, the high-end resorts in Boracay offer great value for money at around US$50 to $75 a night. It's definitely worth considering for what you're getting!

❓Wi-Fi and Internet in the Philippines

Wi-Fi in the Philippines is abundant, especially in the big cities, but it's not as reliable on the islands and more remote places. If you're a digital nomad and need to work on your laptop while traveling, you can definitely find cafes and coworking spaces, sometimes the Internet can be a bit slow outside of cities, so plan accordingly. I've been to a few islands that are a little more remote so getting a good connection can sometimes be a bit of a struggle!

🏝️ Philippines Visa

When you fly to the Philippines, many nationalities get a 30-day Visa on Arrival, which is super convenient! Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and that you have an outbound ticket to show you're leaving within those 30 days. If you need more time, you can even extend the visa up to 60 days.

3 week Philippines itinerary – Final Words

If you're looking to experience the most paradise-like islands and beaches in the world without breaking the bank, then the Philippines takes the cake! It offers a great balance of adventure and leisure activities, making it one of the most cost-effective tropical getaways in South East Asia. 

This three-week Philippines travel itinerary will surely take you to most of the country's highlights, but trust me, there's so much more to see and explore in this beautiful country. With over 7,000 islands, there's plenty of room for you to come back for a second Philippines trip.

Don't forget to take some time for yourself and just relax on the beach – after all, that's what vacations are made for!