Classic Philippines Tour

Today, your private guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and accompany you to visit Manila’s important historical sites, where you will learn about the city’s past. Our first stop is Rizal Park, built to commemorate Jose Rizal (1861-1896 AD), the “Father of the Philippines,” who gallantly resisted Spanish colonial rule. Still, the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines lasted for over 3 centuries, from 1565 AD. As a result, the profound influence of Spanish architecture, culture, and cuisine is still evident throughout the country today. 

Then, we’ll proceed to Intramuros Old Town to tour Manila’s most historic landmarks. Literally “within the walls,” Intramuros is a walled city built by Spanish colonists, where only colonial rulers and the Filipino elite could live and work at the time. Strolling along its cobblestone streets, you can experience the contrast between old and new, past and present. Casa Manila, furnished with antique furniture and exquisite decorations, recreates the look of a 19th-century upper-class mansion. The most notable feature is an old double-seated toilet, a period fashion that allows two people to chat while using it. Then, let’s go to San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed stone church that has survived 7 earthquakes and is one of the oldest and best-preserved churches in the Philippines. We will also visit Manila Cathedral, gazing up at its magnificent Romanesque dome and feeling the sunlight streaming through the stained-glass windows. At Fort Santiago, you can explore the ancient fortifications and dungeons.

After visiting SM Mall of Asia, follow your guide to Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, the final resting place of nearly 20,000 American soldiers. During World War II (1939-1945 AD), tens of thousands of American soldiers paid the ultimate price in the Pacific Theater, and the forest of gravestones now serves as a reminder for the world to reflect on war and cherish peace. In the end, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel. 

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Seda Bonifacio Global City, Manila (4 stars) or similar

This morning, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel. Leaving the hustle and bustle of Manila behind, let’s head to Tagaytay, at a higher elevation, to enjoy the cool air and captivating natural scenery. During the two-hour ride, you’ll not only see the scenery shift from urban to rural, with coconut, pineapple, coffee, and mango plantations along the way, but also learn about Tagaytay’s culture and customs from your guide. Upon arrival, we’ll have lunch at Tagaytay Ridge, then head to People’s Park in the Sky, Tagaytay’s highest point, for panoramic views of the beautiful Taal Volcano.

As one of the world’s smallest active volcanoes, Taal Volcano is surrounded by the vast Taal Lake, creating a unique “lake within an island within a lake” scene that resembles Russian nesting dolls. Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, the Philippines has as many as 53 active volcanoes, making eruptions and earthquakes quite common. From this perspective, the country might seem to have poor natural conditions. But the truth is, although frequent natural disasters cause problems for the people, the volcanic ash also enriches the soil with minerals, allowing the world to see such diverse landscapes and the vibrant Philippines today. Perhaps during our visit, you may even witness puffs of white smoke rising from the crater.

After all the visits, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel in Manila. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Seda Bonifacio Global City, Manila (4 stars) or similar

After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to Manila Airport for a one-hour flight to Caticlan. Upon arrival, your local driver will pick you up and escort you to your hotel in Boracay. You can make your own arrangements for the rest of the day.

You may have heard of Boracay’s world-famous White Beach, and our handpicked hotel sits in its most popular location. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the finest “flour sand” and extremely limpid water or stroll through the adjacent D’mall to enjoy the lively vibe in your free time, there’s plenty to do. One thing to note is that, as the island’s largest and most touristy shopping center, D’mall generally has high prices. If you need to supplement your travel accessories or dine out, it’s better to shop around for the best deal.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The District Boracay (4 stars) or similar

In the morning, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel to begin the exciting Boracay island-hopping tour. You can swim and snorkel in the jelly-like waters of Tambisaan Beach and Coral Garden, admiring schools of clownfish among the vast cabbage corals. Search for shimmering seashells and take photos with whimsical sand sculptures at tranquil Puka Beach. On Crocodile Island, which resembles a crocodile floating in the water, you can snorkel and explore the sea caves, while on Bulabog Beach, a variety of activities, including kitesurfing and windsurfing, await water sports enthusiasts. If the weather is good, we can go further to Diniwid Beach and Ilig-iligan Beach. 
➤ Tips: It’s recommended to bring a waterproof bag for your belongings, along with dry towels and clothes. You may also wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn from strong sunlight on tropical islands.

After a seafood barbecue on the beach for lunch, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The District Boracay (4 stars) or similar

Waking to the salty sea air, you have a whole day to explore this island at your own pace! In the morning, you may lazily sunbathe on the sandy beach, watching the waves crash against the shore, or try water activities. D’Talipapa Market, just a 10-minute walk from your hotel, is an ideal place to savor fresh, authentic seafood. You can pick up fish, squid, shrimp, or crab and have them cooked on the spot at a restaurant. Then, maybe find a spa near the market for a traditional massage to soothe your fatigue. 

Late in the afternoon, it’s recommended to try one of Boracay’s most worthwhile activities - Sunset Paraw Sailing. You can book it in advance online or on-site through your hotel or local operators on White Beach. You’d better arrive at the meeting point 40 to 50 minutes before sunset, in case there are long queues to board the boat or other delays. As you sail on the sea, you could experience a memorable, romantic sunset as the vast sky is gradually painted brilliant orange-red, as if coated with a golden filter. 

➤ Tips: When buying food at the market or engaging in water activities on your own, try to bargain with vendors for a 30% to 40% discount, as prices are often inflated. Additionally, cash is the most common form of payment here, so we suggest exchanging some in Manila beforehand if needed.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The District Boracay (4 stars) or similar

Today, your driver will pick you up from your hotel and escort you to Caticlan Airport for a one-hour flight to Manila, marking the end of this 7-Day Philippines tour itinerary.

If you’re looking to explore other destinations in the Philippines, such as historic Cebu City or pristine El Nido Islands, please feel free to contact us to create a customized itinerary!

➤ Notes for Your Departure at Manila Airport
We ensure you reach Manila Airport as early as possible based on your departure flight time. However, considering Manila Airport is one of the busiest in the Philippines and the departure process is often cumbersome and inefficient, we recommend booking a late flight. If your flight falls on a public holiday or weekend, allow at least 3 hours of extra time.

Meals: Breakfast