Looking for a destination that promises you the perfect mix of history, nature, culture and gastronomy? Then, look no further! This 8 Day Classic Philippines Tour Package from Nepal is exactly what you’ve been searching for all along.
The Philippines, a nation home to 7000 enchanting islands has left millions of visitors mesmerized be it due to its rich cultural legacy, unique natural landmarks, unforgettable food cuisines or warm hospitality. This country has become solely one of Asia’s captivating destinations in recent times for sure!
During this 7 nights and 8 days journey, you’ll discover a few of the Philippines’ best places like Manila, Cebu and Boracay known for their urban atmosphere, affordability, scenic beauty and vibrant nightlife.
To begin your journey, you’ll explore Manila, the capital city and tour Ayala Center, San Agustin Church & Museum, Casa Manila and the National Museum, which have been specially handpicked for you so that you can soak in this city’s everlasting beauty.
As these sites differ from one another, you’ll be able to experience a range of unique and unforgettable moments, from learning about the Philippines' deep rooted past to shopping for local souvenirs and trying out a handful of the most spectacular Filipino cuisines.
Next, Bohol, also nicknamed the “Jewel of the Philippines”, will take you to two top notch destinations, namely the Tarsier Sanctuary and Bilar Man-made Forest. In the first site, you’ll get to see many unique looking tarsiers, one of the world’s smallest primates and learn about their natural habitat, behaviours and diet.
Whereas, in the second site, you’ll drive down a scenic trail lined with vibrant mahogany trees, offering you a peaceful break and definitely boosting your mood! Boracay will take you on many epic and memorable adventures, as you’ll be going on a full day of island hopping and get to visit the popular Puka Beach, Coral Garden or Crocodile Island and Magic Island.
Spend your time on these sites by going on a refreshing swim or snorkeling with diverse marine life and colorful coral reefs! Transforming your dreams of traveling to the Philippines into a reality, this tour combines the best destinations and will take you on a journey that you'll remember forever.
Explore the Philippines : Best Cities, Attractions and Travel Season
To simplify your experiences, we’ve prepared a table down below featuring the top cities/towns/islands (that you’ll be visiting) along with their key attractions, regions and the most favorable season to visit.
|
Cities, Towns and Islands |
Region |
Attractions Covered |
Best time to Visit |
|
Manila |
National Capital Region |
Nielson Tower, Ayala Center, Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, San Agustin Church & Museum, Casa Manila, National Museum, Fort Santiago and Rizal Park |
December to April |
|
Bohol |
Central Visayas Region |
Baclayon Church, Bilar Man-made Forest, Tarsier Sanctuary and Chocolate Hills |
December to April |
|
Boracay |
Western Visayas Region |
Puka Beach, Coral Garden or Crocodile Island, Crystal Cove (Optional) and Magic Island |
December to April |
Uncover Manila’s Past at the Historic Nielson Tower
You’ll start off this tour in Manila, a thriving metropolitan city located in the National capital region. Often being the common starting point for many tours, this city is a perfect introduction to the Philippines’ rich history, colorful cultural traditions, diverse food cuisines and high hospitality.
Here, you’ll first visit Nielson Tower, which once functioned as the city’s first airport control tower constructed in the 1930s by Laurie Nielson. In the present moment, this attraction features the main control room and numerous aviation themed decor items displayed in many areas of the tower.
Shop for Local Goods at the Vibrant Ayala Center
Shopping lovers will absolutely visit Ayala Center, as it offers a ton of options for food, clothing, accessories, footwear and decor items. Located in Makati, this attraction functioned as a major business area during the 1960s to 70s, leading to many commercial buildings being established here.
Currently, it has remained a top place for many tourists and locals to shop and dine and is said to be constantly buzzing with activity, offering something for everyone.
Honor History and Fallen Heroes at the Manila American Cemetery
Following this, you’ll stop by Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, which is a memorial ground constructed to honor the lives of more than 10,000 soldiers who lost their lives during the Second World War.
Here, you’ll be able to witness pristine green lawns filled with many tombstones that provide a much more somber atmosphere in comparison to other sightseeing destinations that you’ll be visiting this day.
Admire Century Old Craftsmanship at San Agustin Church and Museum
To show you the historical side of Manila, you’ll also be taken to San Agustin Church & Museum dedicated to St. Augustine (a religious figure). Built in 1571, this destination features various religious statues, historical documents and paintings dating from the Spanish colonial period.
Step Back in Time at Casa Manila
Following this, you’ll stop by Casa Manila, a historical landmark constructed in 1980 that showcases how upper class Filipino families lived in the past.
Consisting of 3 distinct levels, this destination features various antique furnitures, artworks and artifacts which will help you gain insights into the affluent lifestyle of the families that used to reside here.
Learn About Filipino Heritage at the National Museum
For an educational experience, you’ll also explore the renowned National Museum that houses a wide collection of historical, cultural, archaeological and enthographic artifacts of the Philippines.
A few unmissable spots for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts here include Spoliarium Hall and Galleries I, II and IX that you can add to your bucket list during your sightseeing tour here.
Trace Stories of the Past in Fort Santiago
Lastly, you’ll stop by Fort Santiago and Rizal Park, two of Manila's most prominent attractions. The first site, Fort Santiago, was the oldest fortification landmark built for protecting the capital city from attacks from various invaders in the past.
A few must see sites here include Plaza Moriones and de Armas along with the various dungeons and gardens. Later, down the line, this fortress also functioned as a prison during the Spanish and Japanese invasion.
Finally, you’ll stop by Rizal Park, a tranquil park located nearby Fort Santiago. Featuring lush green trees, fountains and pavilions, you’ll find all your stress and anxiety vanish when you breathe in the fresh air and go on a calming nature walk in the scenic pathways located here.
Seek Solace in the Peaceful Baclayon Church
This tour will also take you to Bohol, a charming town nestled in the Central Visayas region. Popular for its serene natural landmarks, vibrant markets and affordable eateries, the first site that you’ll be stopping by here is Baclayon Church.
Established in 1596, the church has been an active place for worship for many Christians residing in Bohol and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. To soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this place, you can pray for a few minutes near the main altar, light candles and take a stroll in the church grounds.
Go on a Scenic Drive Through the Tranquil Bilar Man-made Forest
For a relaxing experience, you'll drive down through Bilar Man-made Forest, which is this two kilometer pathway lined with enchanting mahogany trees.
Often the go to place for many nature lovers, this landmark will offer you a fresh escape from other sightseeing destinations you’ve been touring for the last few months, as it is quiet, less crowded and more peaceful. Depending upon the time, you can also stop for photos/videos here, as they provide the perfect backdrop.
Catch a Glimpse of Adorable Tarsier at the Tarsier Sanctuary
Visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, a conservation site established to protect and increase the population of tarsiers in Bohol as these endangered species were decreasing rapidly at the beginning of the 20th century.
After exploring this destination, you’ll be able to see these animals in their natural environment and gain insights into their food habits and behaviour.
Take in the Iconic Views of Chocolate Hills
Providing a surreal landscape, the Chocolate Hills is surely one of Bohol’s most unique destinations!
Looking like mountains of chocolate from a faraway distance, these cone shaped hills are actually formed out of limestone that turns from a vibrant shade of green to brown every dry season (December to May).
You’ll go on a mini hike all the way to the main Bohol viewpoint and from here you will be able to catch sight of these magnificent hills that measure from around 30 to 150 ft.
Relax and Rejuvenate in Puka Beach
In Boracay, you’ll start your tour by spending a few hours in the popular Puka Beach known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beach. Formerly known as Yapak, this attraction is situated in the northern region and offers a much more peaceful atmosphere, as it is less crowded than other beaches of Boracay.
To soak in the beauty of this destination, you can go for a refreshing swim, walk by the beach shore or simply take some time relaxing here.
Dive Into the Crystal Clear Waters of Coral Garden
Locally called “House Reef”, the Coral Garden is another premium sightseeing spot in Boracay. As snorkeling is one of the must do activities here, you’ll be engaging in this unforgettable experience that will allow you to catch a glimpse of hard and cabbage corals along with a wide spectrum of marine life like batfish, butterfly fish and clownfish!
Or instead you can also choose to go to Crocodile Island, which might sound intimidating, right? But worry not, there are no crocodiles here but it is called so because the shape of the island resembles one. Situated in the southern part, you can go snorkeling here and might spot aquatic animals like reef fish, cuttlefish, lion fish and vibrant coral reefs.
Go Cliff Diving at the Majestic Magic Island
The Magic Island is ideal for daredevils who aren’t afraid of heights, as this attraction is visited mainly for cliff diving. The cliffs located at various points here range from 3 to 10 meters and you’ll find many lifeguards standing at different jumping points for safety reasons.
Beyond cliff jumping, this spot is also a great place to destress and swim, making it a perfect location for both adventure enthusiasts and those looking to unwind.
India
Thank you so much, Holidays to Nepal team, for their time and effort that they have put into our tour to make it memorable. Our holiday tour to Bali wouldn’t have been completed without your perfect and cosy planning. It was such a good experience, and I will definitely choose Holidays to Nepal for our next trip as well, and I highly recommend others choose them as their travel partner as well. Keep it up, and best of luck for more achievements.