Philippines Travel Guide

By Alex Robinson, our Philippines specialist · Updated October 2026

Philippines Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

The Philippines is made up of more than 7,000 islands, from the rice-terraced mountains of northern Luzon to the limestone lagoons of Palawan and the reefs of the Visayas. It’s a warm, welcoming country where English is widely spoken, with a fascinating mix of Asian, Spanish and American influences in its food, festivals and churches.

This guide covers the practical side of a trip: when to go, entry requirements, getting there and around, health, money, safety and local customs. For ideas and itineraries, see our Philippines bespoke holidays and the best things to do in the Philippines.

The Philippines at a Glance

Reasons to visit Philippines:

1. Beaches and Islands:
   • Boracay: Famous for its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife.
   • Palawan: Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Puerto Princesa Underground River and stunning lagoons in El Nido and Coron.
   • Siargao: Known as the surfing capital, offering beautiful beaches and laid-back vibes.
2. Cultural Experiences:
   • Intramuros in Manila: The historic walled city showcasing Spanish colonial architecture.
   • Vigan: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its preserved Spanish colonial town.
3. Natural Wonders:
   • Chocolate Hills in Bohol: Unique geological formations that change color with the seasons.
   • Rice Terraces of Banaue: Ancient terraces carved into the mountains, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
4. Adventure and Ecotourism:
   • Diving and Snorkeling: The Philippines boasts some of the best diving spots globally, including Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and Anilao.
   • Hiking: Popular trails include Mt. Pulag, known for its sea of clouds, and Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the country.
5. Festivals and Events:
   • Sinulog in Cebu: A vibrant festival celebrating the Santo Niño with colorful street parades.
   • Pahiyas in Lucban: A harvest festival featuring colorful displays made of rice and local produce.

Tourism Highlights

• Diverse Ecosystems: From coral reefs to lush rainforests, the Philippines is home to rich biodiversity, making it ideal for nature lovers.
• Warm and Welcoming People: Filipinos are known for their hospitality, making visitors feel at home.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: A blend of indigenous, Spanish, American, and Asian influences shapes the country’s unique culture, reflected in its cuisine, music, and arts.

Preparing For A Trip To Philippines?

Getting There and Around

Most flights from the UK connect in the Middle East or Asia, such as Doha, Dubai, Singapore or Hong Kong, and fly into Manila or Cebu. Within the Philippines, the quickest way between islands is by short domestic flight. We add private boats for island hopping and private cars with a driver on land. Domestic flights to the smaller islands don’t run every day, so we plan connections carefully and leave time for delays.

Money

The currency is the Philippine peso. Cards are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants and shops in the cities, but you’ll need cash on the islands, in the mountains and at markets, where ATMs can be few and far between. Take enough pesos before you head to places like El Nido, Coron or Sagada. Many restaurants add a service charge, and tips for guides, drivers and boat crews are always appreciated.

Staying Safe

The main tourist areas, including the northern mountains, Palawan, Bohol, Cebu and Siargao, are generally safe to visit. In Manila and other big cities, watch your belongings, use hotel transfers or reputable taxis, and avoid flagging down transport on the street at night. Beaches often have no lifeguards, so check sea conditions before swimming. Drug laws are very strict.

The UK government advises against all travel to western and central Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, and against all but essential travel to the rest of Mindanao, except Siargao, Camiguin and Dinagat. Our itineraries avoid these areas. Check the latest UK travel advice for the Philippines before you go.

Local Customs and Etiquette

• Politeness matters: Filipinos are warm and courteous. Adding “po” to the end of a sentence is a polite way of showing respect to older people.
• Churches: the Philippines is mainly Catholic. Dress modestly in churches, covering shoulders and knees.
• Mountain communities: in Banaue, Batad and Sagada, follow your local guide’s advice, ask before taking photographs of people and treat burial sites, such as the hanging coffins, with respect.
• Stay calm: raising your voice or showing anger in public is considered rude. “Filipino time” can be relaxed, so allow for delays.

Food and Drink

Filipino food mixes Malay, Spanish, Chinese and American flavours. Try chicken or pork adobo, cooked in vinegar, soy and garlic; sinigang, a sour tamarind soup; lechon, roast pig, which is a speciality of Cebu; and kinilaw, fresh fish cured in vinegar. Finish with halo-halo, a colourful shaved-ice dessert, and the sweet mangoes of Guimaras. Don’t drink the tap water. Most hotels provide filtered or bottled water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What currency should I take to the Philippines?

Philippine pesos. You can change money or use ATMs on arrival in Manila or Cebu, but take enough cash before heading to the smaller islands and the mountains, where ATMs are scarce and cards are often not accepted.

Can you drink the tap water in the Philippines?

No. Drink bottled or filtered water, and use it for brushing your teeth. Most of our hotels provide filtered water to refill your bottle, which saves plastic.

Do they speak English in the Philippines?

Yes. English is one of the two official languages, alongside Filipino, and it is widely spoken in hotels, shops and restaurants and by our guides. That makes the Philippines one of the easiest countries in Asia to travel in.

What plug sockets are used in the Philippines?

The voltage is 220V, and most sockets take two flat-pin plugs, like those in the USA, though some take round pins. Bring a universal travel adaptor.

Do I need malaria tablets for the Philippines?

For most tourist areas, the risk is low, but there is some risk in parts of Palawan and other rural areas. Speak to your GP or a travel clinic at least eight weeks before you go, and check the advice on TravelHealthPro for your route.

Do you tip in the Philippines?

Tipping isn’t compulsory, but it is appreciated. Many restaurants add a service charge of around 10%. If not, a small tip is welcome. Guides, drivers and boat crews are usually tipped at the end of a trip or day.

When is typhoon season in the Philippines?

Typhoons can occur from about June to November, and are most likely between August and October. We monitor the weather closely and adjust your plans if a storm is forecast. The dry season, from December to May, is the safest time to visit the islands.

Plan Your Philippines Holiday

Ready to start? Explore our Philippines bespoke holidays, the best things to do in the Philippines and our hand-picked Philippines hotels, or see our 15-day From Highlands to Islands tour. To start planning, request a video call with Alex.