Complete 2 weeks in the Philippines itinerary

The Philippines is a country made up of over 7,000 islands, each with its own unique charm. As you travel across the islands, you’ll notice how everything slows down a bit. I’ve created this 14 days Philippines itinerary to be a trip filled with exploring vibrant cities, chilling in peaceful mountain towns, or kicking back on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Read on for what I think is the perfect two weeks in the Philippines itinerary. 

2 weeks in the Philippines itinerary overview

This 14-day Philippines itinerary is designed to give you a good mix of cultural experiences, nature, and some time to relax. You’ll start in the cooler mountains in the north and then head south to explore historical sites, visit stunning natural attractions, and finish off on some of the country’s most beautiful beaches.

• Day 1: Manila to Banaue
• Day 2: Banaue rice terraces
• Day 3: Banaue to Sagada
• Day 4: Sagada to Baguio
• Day 5: Baguio city tour
• Day 6: Baguio to Manila to Cebu
• Day 7: Cebu city tour
• Day 8: Cebu to Bohol
• Day 9: Bohol countryside tour
• Day 10: Bohol to Cebu to Puerto Princesa
• Day 11: Puerto Princesa to El Nido
• Day 12: El Nido island hopping tour (Tour A)
• Day 13: El Nido island hopping tour (Tour C)
• Day 14: El Nido to Puerto Princesa to Manila

I’ve designed this two-week Philippines trip to take you through some of the Philippines’ most beautiful and culturally rich spots. Here’s a detailed day-by-day breakdown:

Day 1: Manila to Banaue

I’ve started this itinerary with an early morning bus ride from Manila, heading north toward Banaue. The 8-9 hour trip takes you from the busy city to the mountain landscapes of the Cordillera region. 

You’ll pass through towns and villages, and as you climb higher, the views of terraced hillsides and traditional villages start to appear. There’s a lunch stop along the way where you can try local favorites like adobo or sinigang before continuing the journey.

By the time you reach Banaue in the late afternoon, the cool mountain air and slower pace will already feel like a breath of fresh air compared to the city. Banaue is known for rice terraces, and after you check in at your guesthouse, take a stroll around the town center.

You’ll find shops selling beautiful woodcarvings and other local handicrafts. Grab a bite to eat at a restaurant with a view of the terraces to wind down and get ready for the next day.

Travel time: 8-9 hours

The Manila to Banaue journey typically takes 8-9 hours via Ohayami Trans or Coda Lines, both operating direct overnight buses from Manila. Morning departures are available but less common. These air-conditioned buses offer a relatively comfortable ride with scheduled rest stops. 

Day 2: Banaue Rice Terraces

Get up early to catch the beautiful morning light on the rice terraces. After a quick breakfast, hop on a tricycle to the Banaue Viewpoint.

You’ll get a great view of the terraces that were carved by the Ifugao people over 2,000 years ago. 

If you want to take it a step further, book a half-day trek to the Batad Rice Terraces. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but it’s totally worth it.

You’ll walk along narrow paths between the terraces, and your guide will tell you about the farming techniques and traditions that have been passed down for generations. 

For this day you’ll want to pack a light lunch from a local bakery, as food options are limited once you leave town. After your trek, head back to Banaue and finish the day with a delicious dinner featuring regional specialties. The terraces change a lot depending on the season, be sure to see our guide to the best time to go to the Philippines before you go.

Where to stay in Banaue

Banaue has a variety of places to stay, all offering a comfortable, basic experience with some great views of the terraces and mountains.

• Banaue Town Center is the most convenient place to stay. You’ll be close to restaurants, souvenir shops, and transportation options. The guesthouses here might be simple, but many have balconies with mountain views, and it's easy to arrange transportation and tours. 
• Viewpoint Area is another great option. These places are usually family-run and offer a peaceful vibe away from the town center. You’ll wake up to the sounds of nature instead of the usual town noises. 

Day 3: Banaue to Sagada

After breakfast, it’s time to leave Banaue behind and hop on a local jeepney or shared van for the trip to Sagada. The drive takes you deeper into the Cordillera mountains, with winding roads. It’s one of those trips where the scenery just keeps getting better, so make sure your camera is ready. 

You’ll arrive in Sagada by midday, and you’ll instantly notice how relaxed the town feels. The cool, pine-scented air and slow pace make it a perfect place to unwind. Once you check in, grab lunch at one of the cafés along the main street. Many serve locally grown coffee and regional dishes, so it’s a nice chance to try something fresh and tasty. 

In the afternoon, take a stroll to see the Hanging Coffins, an ancient burial tradition where coffins are suspended on cliffs. The walk through the pine forests is peaceful, and you’ll get great views of this unique cultural practice. 

Travel time: 3-4 hours

The trip from Banaue to Sagada usually takes around 3-4 hours. Getting around the Philippines is often done in stages, and today is no exception.

Jeepneys and shared vans are your main transportation options, but schedules can sometimes be a little unpredictable. The Ohayami Transit jeepney is one of the more reliable choices, though it does make a few stops along the way. The mountain roads are beautiful but can be tough if you're prone to motion sickness, so if you can, try to grab a seat in the front. 

Day 4: Sagada to Baguio

Start your day with an exciting cave connection tour, which is one of Sagada’s most popular activities. After breakfast, meet your guide, who will give you helmets and lamps, and then head to Lumiang Cave. 

The cave is famous for its burial coffins stacked near the entrance. After that, you'll continue your adventure through an underground network connecting Lumiang to Sumaguing Cave. As you explore, you’ll see incredible limestone formations and navigate through parts of the caves by scrambling, climbing, and wading through water. 

When you’re done with the caves, grab a quick lunch in Sagada before catching an afternoon bus to Baguio. The drive takes you through more stunning mountain scenery, and you’ll notice the landscape gradually changing as you descend from the highlands to the more developed city of Baguio. You’ll arrive by early evening. 

Travel time: 5-6 hours

The bus ride from Sagada to Baguio takes about 5-6 hours. GL Trans or Lizardo Transportation buses leave daily from Sagada’s main road. These buses usually depart in the morning or early afternoon, so make sure your cave tour fits into the timing. For more pointers, see our Philippines travel tips.

Day 5: Baguio city tour

I’ve structured this day to start with a relaxing walk through Burnham Park, right in the heart of Baguio. It’s known for beautiful gardens, a lake where you can rent paddle boats, and shaded paths.

Afterward, head over to the Baguio Public Market. It’s a bustling area where you can check out local textiles, find unique souvenirs, and try the famous Baguio strawberries.

Grab lunch nearby, and afterward, take a taxi to Mines View Park. The views from up there are amazing—mountains, old copper mines, and just a general sense of how this area has developed over time. 

Right next door is the Good Shepherd Convent, where the nuns make some seriously popular food items. Their ube jam (purple yam preserves) and strawberry jam are local favorites, and they make for great souvenirs. 

As the evening sets in, head back to the city center and grab dinner. If you're up for trying something local, pinikpikan (a traditional chicken dish) is a must-try. 

Where to stay in Baguio

Baguio has something for everyone when it comes to places to stay:

• Session Road area: If you want to be in the heart of Baguio, this is the spot for you. It's close to all the action—restaurants, cafés, and shops—and just a short walk from Burnham Park. If you stay here, you won’t need to worry much about transportation. See more about where to stay in our guide to accommodation in the Philippines.
• Camp John Hay: If you’re looking for a quieter, more peaceful place to stay, check out Camp John Hay. It’s a bit outside the main city center, but it's surrounded by pine forests and has a calm, relaxing atmosphere.

Day 6: Baguio to Manila to Cebu

Today is mostly a travel day, so get ready for a bit of a change in scenery. Start with a bus ride back to Manila, leaving the cool mountain climate of Baguio behind.

Travel time: 4 to 5 hour bus ride

The bus ride from Baguio to Manila usually takes about 4-5 hours. The Victory Liner and Genesis Transport buses are comfortable with air-conditioning and make a few rest stops along the way. They go through scenic mountain passes, so it’s a pleasant ride overall. It’s a good idea to catch an early bus so you’ve got plenty of time to catch your flight at Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Once you get to Manila, head straight to the airport for your flight to Cebu. It’s a short flight—about 1-1.5 hours—but it’s best to book early, especially during the busy tourist season (December to May). Manila’s traffic can be unpredictable, so I recommend giving yourself at least 3-4 hours between your bus arrival and flight departure to avoid any last-minute stress.

Travel time: 1-1.5 hours flight

Flights from Manila to Cebu are frequent and quick. Most flights land at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located on Mactan Island. From there, you can easily get a taxi or shuttle to Cebu City.

When you land in Cebu, you’ll immediately feel the shift in atmosphere—from the cool, highland air to the tropical warmth. After settling into your hotel, head out for dinner. Cebu’s famous lechon (roast pig) is a must-try.
 

Day 7: Cebu City tour

For day 7 of this 14 days Philippines itinerary, start by exploring Cebu, the oldest city in the Philippines and the birthplace of the country’s first Spanish settlement. 

A great way to dive into Cebu's history is with a self-guided walking tour of downtown. Your first stop should be the Basilica del Santo Niño, home to the oldest religious relic in the Philippines—a statue of the infant Jesus given by Ferdinand Magellan back in 1521. 

Just a short walk away is Magellan's Cross, a historical site marking the introduction of Christianity to the islands. Next, swing by Fort San Pedro, the first Spanish fort in the Philippines. 

Stop for lunch at a nearby spot where you can try Cebu’s famous puso (hanging rice) paired with some grilled meats. In the afternoon, grab a taxi or Grab to visit the Taoist Temple, tucked away in a neighborhood that gives you a beautiful view of Cebu City and the ocean.

Before calling it a day, take a stroll through Ayala Mall or SM City Cebu. These malls are perfect for a little shopping or just to enjoy people-watching and get a glimpse into modern Filipino life.  For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in Cebu.

Where to stay in Cebu City

Cebu City has accommodations to suit all kinds.

• Downtown Cebu: Staying here means you’re right in the heart of the city’s historical areas. You’ll be within walking distance of landmarks; the downtown area is busy during the day, with narrow streets, local markets, and old colonial buildings. At night, it quiets down a bit.
• Uptown Cebu: If you prefer a more modern atmosphere, the Cebu Business Park and IT Park are where you’ll want to stay. This area has everything from sleek high-rise hotels and upscale shopping malls to international restaurants.

After exploring the history of Cebu, you’ll be ready to head to the more laid-back pace of Bohol.

Day 8: Cebu to Bohol

In the morning, head to the port to catch a ferry to Bohol. After a quick breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café, make your way to the pier, where several ferry services run across the Bohol Strait.

Travel time: 2 hours via ferry

When you get to Tagbilaran, the main port city in Bohol, you’ll immediately notice how much slower the pace is compared to Cebu.

From Tagbilaran, take a jeepney or taxi to Panglao Island (one of the best islands in the Philippines), just a short drive away. You’ll pass by rural landscapes, palm trees, and traditional Filipino homes. Once you arrive, take a break and enjoy lunch at one of the many beachfront restaurants along Alona Beach (one of the best beaches in the Philippines). 

A word of advice: the tropical sun can be stronger than it feels, so make sure to apply plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, even on cloudy days. See our Philippines travel health tips for more pointers.

Fresh seafood with a view of the white sand and clear waters is hard to beat. After lunch, spend the afternoon chilling on the beach.

Before dinner, take a stroll along the beach and book your countryside tour for the next day. 
 

Day 9: Bohol countryside tour

On this day you’ll want to get up early, because you’ve got a full day ahead exploring Bohol. There are quite a few agencies that will give a countryside tour, but it’ll likely look like something like this:

Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation, and the first stop is the famous Chocolate Hills (one of the best things to do in the Philippines). These 1,200+ cone-shaped hills are scattered across the landscape, and if you head up to the viewing platform, you’ll get a solid view of them. 

Next, it’s off to the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, where you can get to visit some of the smallest primates in the world. The tarsiers are pretty fascinating—tiny creatures with huge eyes, and they can even rotate their heads 180 degrees.

For lunch, you’ll hop aboard a floating restaurant for the Loboc River Cruise. While you float along the river, you’ll get to enjoy a buffet of Filipino dishes. At a few stops, you’ll see some traditional music and dance performances. 

After that, you’ll pass through a man-made forest, which has this beautiful tunnel of mahogany trees. Your last stop of the day is Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, dating back to the Spanish colonial era.
 

Day 10: Bohol to Cebu to Puerto Princesa

It’s time to make your way to the next destination—Palawan. After breakfast, you’ll catch a ferry from Tagbilaran port back to Cebu. 

Travel time (Bohol to Cebu): 2 hours ferry

The return journey from Bohol to Cebu follows the same route as your outward trip, with ferry services operating regularly throughout the morning from Tagbilaran port. 

The ferry ride is about 2 hours, so it’s a good time to sit back and relax. When you arrive in Cebu, head to Mactan-Cebu International Airport for your afternoon flight to Puerto Princesa. 

Travel time (Cebu to Puerto Princesa): 1.5 hours flight

Direct flights connect Cebu to Puerto Princesa daily, operated primarily by Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines.

The flight is pretty short, about 1.5 hours, and as you approach Palawan, you might catch amazing views of the island’s limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Once you land in Puerto Princesa, the relaxed vibe of the city will be pretty obvious. After you grab your luggage, just hop into a tricycle or shuttle to get to your accommodation in the city center. 

Travel time (within Puerto Princesa): 15-20 minutes by tricycle or shuttle

After you check in, consider heading out for dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh Palawan seafood or lato (sea grapes)—they’re both local favorites. Then, take the evening to rest up and get ready for tomorrow’s trip to El Nido. Before bed, don’t forget to arrange your shared van transfer to El Nido through your accommodation so you can get an early start the next day.

Day 11: Puerto Princesa to El Nido

Day 11 of this 14 days Phillipines itinerary begins early with a shared van ride along Palawan’s beautiful eastern coastline. 

Travel time: 5-6  hours drive

The drive will take you through small villages, coconut plantations, rice fields, and plenty of stunning coastline views. Several companies, like Lexxus Shuttle, Eulen Joy, and Cherry Bus, run comfortable, air-conditioned vans, leaving throughout the morning.

As you get closer to El Nido, the landscape starts to change—those big limestone cliffs rise up out of the greenery, and you’ll start to see the bay with all its islands. The van will drop you off in El Nido town, tucked between the cliffs and the calm water. 

After you check into your accommodation, take some time to unwind before heading out for a stroll along the beach. The palm trees along the shore make for a pretty spot to watch the sunset over Bacuit Bay, especially as outrigger boats return from their tours. Afterward, take a walk around the town to book tomorrow’s island-hopping tour, either through one of the local operators or your accommodation. For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in El Nido.
 

Day 12: El Nido island hopping (Tour A)

As we near the end of this 14-day Philippines itinerary, it’s finally time for island hopping! After breakfast, head down to the beach where outrigger boats are waiting to take you out into the stunning Bacuit Bay. 

The first stop is usually the Small Lagoon, a peaceful spot surrounded by tall limestone cliffs. You can kayak or swim in the calm waters and explore some caves while you're at it.

Next, it’s on to the Big Lagoon. This spot is my personal favorite, with its impossibly blue water and dramatic cliffs all around. After that, you’ll head to the Secret Lagoon, which you can only reach by squeezing through a small opening in the rock. Once inside, you’ll find a hidden pool surrounded by cliffs and a small beach.

Around lunchtime, you’ll stop at Shimizu Island for a laid-back picnic-style meal with grilled seafood, tropical fruits, and rice. It’s a great way to refuel before heading to your next stop—Seven Commando Beach. Here, you can relax on the white sand or take a swim in the clear waters.

Throughout the day, you’ll have plenty of chances to snorkel and check out the colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. As the day winds down, your boat will head back to El Nido town.
 

Day 13: El Nido island hopping tour (Tour C)

Your last full day in the Philippines is packed with more island hopping, this time taking El Nido’s Tour C. After breakfast, head back to the beach and hop on your outrigger boat for a day of exploring.

First, you’ll visit Hidden Beach, located on the western side of Bacuit Bay. To get there, you’ll swim through a small crevice in a limestone wall, and when you pop out on the other side, you’ll be greeted by a quiet stretch of sand surrounded by cliffs.

Next up is Matinloc Shrine on Matinloc Island. The abandoned religious retreat sits on a beautiful beach, and there’s a viewpoint that gives you a stunning view of the bay. 

After that, you’ll head over to Secret Beach. You might recognize it from The Beach movie. The only way to get in is by swimming through a small gap in a rock wall.

Your boat crew will prepare a delicious lunch for you on one of the islands. In the afternoon, you’ll stop by Star Beach, where you can snorkel in shallow waters filled with starfish.

On the way back to El Nido in the late afternoon, you’ll get one last look at the limestone islands silhouetted against the setting sun. Once you’re back in town, you’ll have a bit of time for a farewell dinner.
 

Day 14: El Nido to Puerto Princesa to Manila

It’s time to say goodbye to the Philippines. After breakfast, hop on a shared van for your return trip to Puerto Princesa. The ride retraces the same coastal route, giving you one last chance to take in the beautiful rural landscapes of Palawan.

Travel time: 5-6 hours bus ride

The van will make a few quick stops before you arrive at Puerto Princesa airport with plenty of time for your afternoon flight to Manila.

It’s a good idea to leave at least 2-3 hours between your arrival and flight time, just to be safe.

Travel time: 1.5 hours flight

As your plane lifts off from Puerto Princesa, enjoy the final view of Palawan’s emerald forests and turquoise waters.  

Once you land in Manila, you’ll connect to your international flight, wrapping up your 14-days Philippines itinerary. From the rice terraces in the north to the beaches of Palawan, you’ve experienced a lot of what makes the Philippines special. As you settle into your flight home, you might already be planning your next trip to explore even more of the Philippines’ 7,000+ islands.