Ultimate 2-Week Travel Itinerary: How to Spend 14 Days in the Philippines

Certainly! Here’s a more detailed itinerary for two weeks in the Philippines:

Days 1-3: Manila

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Arrival: Arrive in Manila, the capital city of the Philippines.
• Intramuros: Start with Intramuros, the historic walled city. Visit Fort Santiago and the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Rizal Park: Stroll through Rizal Park (Luneta), a significant historical site dedicated to national hero José Rizal.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps in the bustling district of Makati or BGC (Bonifacio Global City).

Day 2: Cultural and Modern Manila

• National Museum Complex: Explore the National Museum of the Philippines, which includes the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of Natural History.
• Mall of Asia: Head to SM Mall of Asia for shopping, dining, and a stroll along Manila Bay. Consider watching the sunset from the mall’s seafront.
• Evening: Experience Manila’s vibrant nightlife, either in Makati or at a waterfront bar in Manila Bay.

Day 3: Tagaytay Day Trip

• Travel: Take a 1.5 to 2-hour drive to Tagaytay, known for its cooler climate and scenic views.
• Taal Volcano: Enjoy panoramic views of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake from the Tagaytay Ridge.
• Paseo de Sta. Rosa: Explore this area for local eateries and shops.
• Evening: Return to Manila for the night.

Days 4-6: Palawan (El Nido)

Day 4: Arrival in El Nido

• Travel: Fly from Manila to El Nido (direct flights or flights via Puerto Princesa).
• Relax: Settle into your accommodation and explore El Nido town. Visit local cafes and shops.
• Beach Time: Spend some time relaxing on the nearby beaches, such as Corong Corong Beach.

Day 5: Island Hopping Tour

• Tour A: Join one of the popular island-hopping tours (Tour A is highly recommended). Visit iconic spots like Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, and Shimizu Island. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and enjoy stunning landscapes.
• Lunch: Most tours include a picnic lunch on one of the islands.
• Evening: Return to El Nido town for dinner and maybe catch a sunset at one of the local bars or restaurants.

Day 6: Relaxation and Exploration

• Nacpan Beach: Take a day trip to Nacpan Beach for a more laid-back experience. Enjoy the long stretch of white sand and clear water.
• Optional Activities: Consider renting a motorbike to explore nearby areas or visit other hidden beaches.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner in El Nido town or explore more local nightlife.

Days 7-9: Cebu

Day 7: Arrival and City Exploration

• Travel: Fly from El Nido to Cebu City.
• Historical Sites: Explore Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro.
• Dinner: Enjoy a meal at one of Cebu’s renowned restaurants.

Day 8: Adventure and Nature

• Oslob: Take a day trip to Oslob for whale shark watching. It’s an early morning activity but offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Kawasan Falls: After Oslob, head to Kawasan Falls in Badian for canyoneering or simply enjoy the beautiful waterfalls and swimming.
• Return: Travel back to Cebu City for the night.

Day 9: Beach and Island Fun

• Mactan Island: Spend the day on Mactan Island, known for its resorts and beaches. Visit spots like Plantation Bay or Shangri-La Mactan.
• Optional: If you prefer, take a ferry to nearby islands like Malapascua for diving or Bohol for more sightseeing.

Days 10-12: Bohol

Day 10: Arrival in Bohol

• Travel: Take a ferry from Cebu to Bohol (Tagbilaran City).
• Chocolate Hills: Visit the Chocolate Hills, a unique geological formation.
• Tarsier Sanctuary: Stop by the Tarsier Sanctuary to see the small and adorable tarsiers up close.
• Evening: Relax in Tagbilaran or Panglao Island.

Day 11: Panglao Island and Loboc River

• Panglao Island: Enjoy the beaches of Panglao Island, such as Alona Beach or Dumaluan Beach.
• Loboc River Cruise: Take a river cruise on the Loboc River, which includes a buffet lunch and local music.
• Optional: Visit the nearby Hinagdanan Cave or explore more beaches.

Day 12: More Relaxation

• Explore: Spend the day at leisure, either relaxing on the beach, exploring local attractions, or visiting more sites.
• Optional: Take a day trip to nearby islands or enjoy water sports.

Days 13-14: Return to Manila

Day 13: Return to Manila

• Travel: Fly back to Manila.
• Final Exploration: Use this day for any last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Visit places you missed earlier or enjoy a nice meal.
• Evening: Prepare for departure the next day.

Day 14: Departure

• Preparation: Final packing and head to the airport for your departure.

This itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure, showcasing the Philippines’ diverse beauty and culture. Adjust based on your preferences and the local weather conditions. Enjoy your trip!