Philippines Travel Guide for 2025

The Philippines travel guide is your essential companion to discovering one of Southeast Asia’s most breathtaking archipelagos, made up of over 7,000 islands—each offering a unique slice of paradise. From crystal-clear beaches to volcanic mountains, and from vibrant cities to coral reefs, the Philippines is a dream destination for beach lovers, adventurers, and cultural explorers.

With the help of this Philippines travel guide, you can plan your journey effortlessly—exploring must-visit spots, sampling local cuisine, diving into unforgettable experiences, and even finding Indian food options across the islands.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or a return visit, this comprehensive Philippines travel guide ensures you don’t miss the country’s iconic highlights and hidden gems alike.

📍 Must-Visit Places in the Philippines

🏝️ Palawan

El Nido & Coron – Known for dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, thrilling island hopping, and scuba diving.
Puerto Princesa Underground River – A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s well worth the detour.

🌊 Boracay

Enjoy powdery white sand beaches, buzzing nightlife, and a variety of water sports at White Beach.
Additionally, try sunset sailing or kite surfing at Bulabog Beach for a unique coastal adventure.

🌄 Cebu

Discover the beauty of Kawasan Falls, snorkel with whale sharks in Oslob, or witness the famous sardine run in Moalboal.
Moreover, delve into Cebu’s heritage with visits to Magellan’s Cross and centuries-old churches.

🍃 Bohol

Marvel at the unique Chocolate Hills, visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, or enjoy a serene cruise along the Loboc River.

🏙️ Manila

Dive into history at Intramuros, shop at vibrant malls, or watch captivating cultural performances.
Furthermore, don’t miss iconic spots like Rizal Park, the National Museum, and Binondo—the world’s oldest Chinatown.

🌴 Siargao

Experience world-class surfing and embrace the island’s laid-back charm.
Explore nature’s gems like Sugba Lagoon and the Magpupungko Rock Pools.

🌾 Baguio & Banaue

Escape to the cool mountain weather, explore stunning rice terraces, and enjoy a peaceful retreat in these scenic highlands.

🍽️ What to Eat in the Philippines

Filipino cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and reflects a unique fusion of Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. Whether you’re dining in a local eatery or sampling street food, there’s something for every palate.

🍲 Must-Try Filipino Dishes

Adobo – A savory stew of chicken or pork simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
Sinigang – A tangy tamarind-based soup with vegetables and meat.
Lechon – A whole roasted pig, especially popular during celebrations and considered one of the country’s most iconic festive dishes.
Kare-Kare – A rich peanut-based oxtail stew, typically served with shrimp paste (bagoong).
Halo-Halo – A vibrant dessert made with crushed ice, sweet beans, jellies, and evaporated milk.
Pancit – Stir-fried noodles with a mix of vegetables and meat or seafood.

🍢 Tip: Filipino food tends to be savory and sweet—perfect for travelers who prefer milder flavors.

🧭 Top Things to Do in the Philippines

🏝️ Go island hopping in Palawan and Cebu.
🐠 Snorkel or dive in the biodiverse Apo Reef or Tubbataha Reefs.
🌋 Hike Mt. Mayon or Mt. Pulag for breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
🛶 Cruise through the awe-inspiring Puerto Princesa Underground River.
🧗 Try adrenaline-pumping canyoneering at Kawasan Falls.
🛍️ Shop at local bazaars for pearls, wooden crafts, and handwoven textiles.
🎉 Additionally, immerse yourself in local culture at festivals like Sinulog, Ati-Atihan, or Pahiyas.

🍛 Best Indian Restaurants in the Philippines

Indian cuisine is becoming increasingly popular in the Philippines, especially in major cities and tourist hotspots. Whether you’re craving North Indian curries or South Indian dosas, you’ll find great options across the country.

🥘 In Manila (Metro Manila)

New Bombay (Multiple branches) – A well-established Indian restaurant chain.
Queen of India (BGC, Makati) – Offers classic North Indian fare in a modern setting.
Swagat Indian Cuisine (Makati) – Known for affordable, home-style dishes.
Govinda’s Canteen (Mandaluyong) – A pure vegetarian restaurant run by ISKCON.

🥘 Cebu City:

Namaste by Vanraj – Authentic Indian dining located near the city center.
Little India – A cozy vegetarian spot loved by both locals and tourists.

🥘 Island of Boracay:

True Food Indian Cuisine – A beachfront restaurant serving traditional curries, naan, and tandoori dishes.

🫕 Tip: Most Indian restaurants offer vegan, Jain, and gluten-free options upon request.

🧳 Do’s and Don’ts in the Philippines

✅ Do’s

Respect local culture — Filipinos are warm, welcoming, and deeply family-oriented.
Learn simple phrases like “Salamat” (Thank you) to show appreciation.
Carry cash when visiting smaller islands, as ATMs may be unavailable.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the marine ecosystem.

❌ Don’ts

Don’t drink tap water — always opt for bottled or filtered water.
Don’t disrespect religious spaces or ignore local customs.
Avoid wearing flashy items in crowded areas to prevent theft.
Lastly, don’t expect everything to run on schedule — island time is a real (and charming) thing here!

The Philippines is a land of stunning contrasts — where modern cities meet ancient rice terraces, coral reefs flourish beside volcanic landscapes, and every smile feels like home. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, relaxing on sun-drenched shores, or enjoying flavorful Indian cuisine in Manila, this guide ensures you’ll experience the very best of this tropical wonder.