Hi! I am excited to give you a glimpse of paradise on earth: the Philippines.
Here, you can relax on white sandy beaches, visit bustling urban centers, and experience a rich culture of varied influences and deep history.
I will guide you through a one-week itinerary of the highlights of the archipelago. Follow me, and together we will make your travel fantasies a reality!
1. Considerations When Planning Your Philippines Travel Itinerary
When preparing your trip to the Philippines, you need to take some important aspects in deciding what aspects of the visit will be most suited to your interests, budget, and time frame. Key considerations include:
Budget: Work out how much you can afford to spend, and allocate that towards flights, accommodation, and food.
Accommodation Options: Depending on budget and taste, a variety of options are available, from hostels to luxury resorts.
Time of Year: Avoid the typhoon season, and time your visit for sun.
Interests and Activities: Passionate about diving, soaking up sun on the beach, or immersing yourself in food and culture? Then plan your trip accordingly.
Health and Safety: Check travel advisories and health advice before you go.
Travel Restrictions and Visas: Make sure you have the right paperwork, and that there are no travel advisories.
2. Perfect 7-Day Philippines Travel Itinerary
Embark on a 7-day journey around the Philippines, with a mix of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and relaxation time. Each destination has its own highlights, making for an unforgettable trip.
Itinerary Overview
This trip includes three cities:
Siquijor Island is known for its mystical legends and natural wonder
Panglao offers vibrant nightlife and marine tours
Bohol is rich in culture and history, from centuries-old churches to the iconic Chocolate Hills
Philippines 7 Days Trip Table
Day | Destination | Recommended Activities |
1-2 | Siquijor Island | Arrival, Motorcycle Half Circle Island: Pitogo Cliff, Banyan Tree Fish Therapy, Cambugahay Falls, Lazi Church, Salagdoong Beach |
3 | Siquijor to Panglao | Balicasag and Virgin Island, dolphin chasing, snorkeling; Alona Beach for sunset photos |
4 | Panglao | Universiti Philippines Sabah, Bak Kut Teh at Night Market, Buy Specialty Chocolate, Rest |
5-7 | Bohol | Day 5: Land tour (Chocolate Hill, Tarsiers, artificial forest, Lobo River cruise); paddle board, firefly night tour at night. Day 6: Snorkeling or deep diving, Coconut forest and jelly sea Day 7: Bars, spas, department stores |
Day 1-2: Siquijor Island
Start your Porac’s adventure on the bewitching Siquijor Island, a place of serenity home to breathtaking beaches and lush landscapes. Get a taste of the island’s magic and be prepared for thrills to come.
Things to do
Pitogo Cliff: With its spectacular views, Pitogo Cliff is a photographer's paradise, allowing you to capture the island's rugged splendor and more. Take in the panoramic vistas and let the inspiration sink in.
Banyan Tree Fish Therapy: Hidden beneath the branches of an ancient banyan tree, a relaxing fish spa experience awaits. Let the tiny fish gently exfoliate your feet as you relax surrounded by nature.
Cambugahay Falls: This fantastic series of cascading waterfalls is the ultimate playground, with crystal-clear waters to swim in, and Tarzan ropes to swing from. Spend the day playing in the falls and unwinding.
Lazi Church: The stunning architecture and deep history of Lazi Church are a window into Siquijor's cultural past. Venture inside to feel its tranquility and marvel at the ornate craftsmanship.
Salagdoong Beach: Lounging on the white powdery sand of Salagdoong Beach or taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters is idyllic. The beach is a perfect spot for some rest and relaxation under the tropical sun.
Where to Stay:
For the best views, opt for a beachside resort, giving you the gentle murmur of the ocean and convenient access to points of interest. Staying near San Juan will position you well for trips to the island’s best beaches, as well as being close to the majority of night life.
Rent a motorcycle for easy island exploration.
Carry cash, as some areas might not accept cards.
Pack swimwear and waterproof bags for water activities.
Day 3: Siquijor to Panglao
Trade the mystique of Siquijor for the sun, sea, and sand of Panglao. Today, it’s on from serene views to aquatic adventures and island vibes.
Things to do
Balicasag and Virgin Island: An explorer’s paradise, these islands will afford you the opportunity to swim among thriving coral atolls and get up close and personal with a rainbow of sea life. Whether it’s dolphin sightings or underwater safaris, don’t miss these marine gems.
Alona Beach: Known for its breath-taking sunsets, Alona Beach will be the perfect end to your day. With golden sandy beaches and views out to sea, you can relax on the shore or walk along the coastline, gazing at the scenery.
Where To Stay:
Opt for a hotel right on Alona Beach. As the island’s most popular beach, accommodation options range from budget to luxury, and you can’t beat the sunset views.
Book island hopping tours in advance to secure your spot.
Bring underwater camera gear for capturing marine life.
Day 4: Panglao
Today, you take an immersion into cultural experiences in Panglao. Appreciate the local culture and sample the island's local cuisine, with today being a perfect center of education and gastronomy.
Things to do
University of the Philippines Sabah: Tour the campus of this university, learning about its history and future, as well as what it offers its students. The institution itself is a bridge between the traditional and the modern.
Bak Kut Teh at Night Market: A visit to the night market offers the opportunity to try bak kut teh, a local pork rib soup favorite. Enjoy this taste bud explosion while souvenir shopping for unique chocolate and craft items.
Where to Stay:
Choose accommodation near the night market, which offers the best food and shopping options. Many accommodations can be found across Panglao Island, catering to all budgets.
Carry cash for market purchases.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Day 5-7: Bohol
Spend the next three days exploring Bohol’s natural beauty, environmental wonders, and local culture – interspersed with a day of relaxation and leisure time.
Day 5:
Chocolate Hills: Spend the early morning exploring these famous hills, oversized geological formations that resemble enormous chocolate drops. Take in surreal views across the tops of the mounds, deserving of dozens of snapshots.
Tarsier Sanctuary: This scenic sanctuary is home to the endangered tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. A visit is as heartwarming as it is educational.
Man-Made Mahogany Forest: Walk or drive through this striking canopy of mahogany trees, a stark contrast to Bohol’s usual tropical environment. The shade is a welcome reprieve from the tropical sun.
Loboc River Cruise: Treat yourself to a river cruise lunch at a floating restaurant on the Loboc River and enjoy the sights of the verdant river banks and local life along the river.
Paddle Board and Firefly Night Tour: On entry into Bohol, learn the art of Stand Up Paddleboarding before the firefly tour at dusk on the water.
Day 6:
Snorkeling or Deep Diving: Get up close and personal with Bohol’s exquisite coral reefs and colorful marine life as you snorkel or dive – if you go deep enough, you might even see a Lucifer hawkfish or two!
Coconut Forest and Jelly Sea: Stop at Bohol’s fascinating Coconut Forest and the nearby Jelly Sea, with stingless jellyfish visible under the clear waters.
Day 7:
Bars or Spas: Logging a lot of steps over the past few days, either a quiet drink in a local bar or a rejuvenating spa treatment will be more than welcome.
Department Stores: A few souvenir shops here may stock some local crafts – most are items you’ve seen before if you’ve been in the Philippines more than five minutes.
Where to Stay:
Stay closer to the Chocolate Hills for easy access to the day’s activities – there are eco-lodges, upscale resorts, and everything in between on the island of Bohol.
Wear light clothing and bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
Plan excursions in advance for a seamless experience.
Plan your departure early to avoid last-minute rushes.
Treat yourself to a local spa experience for a relaxing end to your trip.
Tips for Shortening/Extending the 7 Days Route
To shorten the trip, focus on Siquijor Island and Bohol, skipping Panglao.
For an extended stay, add visits to Cebu or Palawan for more island adventures.
3. Top 10 Philippine Food and Drink
Now that we’ve sampled some of the islands themselves, it’s time to tuck into the local cuisine, a joyous, delicious mixture of sweet, sour and savory, influenced by the country’s diverse heritage.
1. Adobo:
The unofficial national dish of the Philippines, typically featuring meat (chicken or pork being most common) marinated and cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic and spices. Served with rice, the comforting, tangy, salty dish is a staple at any Filipino dining table.
2. Lechon:
Whole roasted pigs, where the skin is roasted to a delicious crisp while the flesh beneath remains juicy and tender, are a holiday favorite. Serve with a liver sauce for a real taste of local celebrations.
3. Sinigang:
A comforting sour soup, traditionally tamarind-based, with pork, shrimp or fish (or vegetarian, of course) and an array of vegetables. Pure comfort food.
4. Halo-Halo:
Cool down with this chilled dessert, comprising shaved ice, evaporated milk, assorted sweet beans and fruits and a range of toppings such as leche flan and ube ice cream—an unmissable, colorful treat to beat the heat.
5. Kare-Kare:
A rich stew of oxtail, tripe and vegetables served in a thick, rich peanut sauce. A side of bagoong (salty shrimp paste) is typically served to contrast the creaminess and nuttiness.
6. Pancit:
A party-food staple of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, meat or seafood. From Pancit Canton (egg noodles) to Pancit Bihon (rice noodles), the medley of textures and flavours is a joy.
7. Lumpia:
Fried spring rolls, especially the variant Lumpiang Shanghai, are classics. Fresh (Lumpiang Sariwa) or fried, they’re filled with mince and vegetables with a sweet and sour sauce.
8. Bibingka:
Traditionally eaten at Christmastime, this rice cake is baked in banana leaves and made from rice flour and coconut milk. Finished with butter, grated coconut and a salted egg—divine.
9. Sisig:
This chopped, then sizzled plate of pigs' face and liver is served with calamansi, onions and chili. It's crispy and savory and best enjoyed with an ice-cold beer.
10. Taho:
A sweet snack composed of silken tofu, arnibal (caramelized sugar syrup) and sago pearls, often sold warm in the morning by street vendors—a nourishing and very comforting first meal of the day.
4. Additional Tips for Philippines Traveling
Packing Essentials
Pack light, loose clothes to stay comfortable in the tropical climate, along with swimwear, a sun hat, and sunblock for protection. Bring a first aid kit, insect repellent, comfortable footwear, and a dry bag for beach days. Don’t forget a travel adapter and power bank for your devices.
Cash and Local Wallet Apps
Carry enough cash for small payments, especially outside cities. Try cashless convenience with local wallet apps GCash and PayMaya. Book transport through Grab for guaranteed, fixed fares.
Local Etiquette and Culture
Learn a few simple translations like “Magandang umaga” (Good morning) and always say “Salamat” (Thank you). Respect a few cultural traditions, using your right hand or both for greetings, dressing modestly, and abstaining from pointing.
Getting Around
Seeing the Philippines might mean using all manner of transport. Quick island hops are easy by air, but travel between islands can be memorable by ferry. Vehicles locally known as jeepneys and tricycles are an affordable if jam-packed and bizarre experience.
Renting a Car or Motorcycle
Finally, consider renting a car or motorcycle to explore on your own schedule. Exercise caution on crowded streets however, and protect yourself with a helmet. Some car hire companies may ask for an international driving permit.
Communication: Language Tips
While English is spoken everywhere, learning a few Filipino words, such as “Kumusta” (Hello) and “Magkano” (how much), can deepen your experience, and reveal respect when away from tourist areas.
Summary
Here is your ultimate 7-day itinerary for the Philippines, featuring unmissable sites and exciting activities with something for everyone.
Explore the magical terrain of Siquijor, the bustling beaches of Panglao, and the legendary Chocolate Hills of Bohol – each day is a new adventure in one of the most unforgettable destinations on Earth.
This schedule and advice will ensure your journey is as smooth as it is stunning. Have a great trip, and savor every second of it!