Visit Philippines in 1 week between Manila and Palawan Island

You have 1 week of vacations and want to discover the secrets of the Philippines? Curious souls? You like boat trips? Well, good news, this itinerary is made for you!

After this trip, you will know everything about Manila and you will even be able to brag about the fact that you have been to the most beautiful island of the Philippines: Palawan Island.

Here is a glimpse of the beautiful experiences awaiting in this 1-week road trip in the Philippines:

• Stroll around Intramuros district, the historic part of Manila, with many stories to tell
• Admire the beautiful and natural show of fireflies that lit up the night sky in Puerto Princesa
• Have your breath taken away during a boat tour in the Bacuit Archipelago in El Nido
• Enjoy a day of authenticity between dolphins and lakes when in Taytay

To travel safely and without any worry on your mind, we recommend Chapka Insurance!

Itinerary of a 1-week road trip in the Philippines, between Manila and the island of Palawan

Manilla > Puerto Princesa > El Nido > Taytay > Puerto Princesa > Manilla

Some practical information before your trip to the Philippines

First and foremost, we recommend that you do not rent a car in the Philippines, as driving is very different from here and quite dangerous if you are not used to it. The roads are not always adapted, scooters are very (very) numerous and especially at rush hours, which makes traffic complicated (high density). Moreover, you need an international driving licence or you will not be able to drive a car. When you are in the big cities, you can use the “Grab” application to get around, it is the equivalent of Uber in Southeast Asia.

You want to buy a paper travel guide? We recommend this one! In our opinion, it is the most complete and the most visual!

Need a road map to prepare your itinerary? We recommend this one, the most detailed and the most pleasant to read !

Contents: 1-week road trip in the Philippines, between Manila and Palawan Island

1- Manila – Stop 1 of the 1-week road trip in the Philippines
2- Puerto Princesa – Stop 2 of the 1-week road trip in the Philippines
3- El Nido – Stop 3 of the 1-week road trip in the Philippines
4- Taytay – Stop 4 of the 1-week road trip in the Philippines
5- Puerto Princesa – Stop 5 of the 1-week road trip in the Philippines
6- Manila – Stop 6 of the 1-week road trip in the Philippines

1-week road trip in the Philippines: step by step

What to do in Manila?

Philippines’ capital, Manila is constantly changing. Big city blending past and future. Its nightlife is very busy. We start this 1-week itinerary in the Philippines with a day in Manila, but don’t worry, you’ll return there at the end of your trip

• Explore the city’s historic neighbourhood: Intramuros. It is the oldest in the city with its churches, cathedrals, museums… The best way to get to know almost everything about the history of this area is to take a guided tour, either on foot to get around or by bike for a more sporty alternative.
• Rent a jeepney (military jeeps transformed as typical Philippines public transport) or just walk around the many streets.
• Start your visit of Intramuros with the Saint Augustin Church, which will tell you about the history of Philippines.
• Interested in Spanish colonisation?  Head to Santiago Fort (Intramuros), one of the rare ruins in the Philippines. And if you want to save money, keep in mind that you can get in for free on Sundays!
• Take advantage of a beautiful end of the day to go and have a drink on one of the many rooftops of the capital. Beautiful views and sunshine are to be expected!

More experiences in Manila:

• Stroll through Rizal Park (Intramuros) where locals spend most of their spare time having fun, having a picnic or just relaxing.
• You love animals? Go to Manila Ocean Park (Intramuros) a theme park that will let you get a closer look at the local wildlife, from small fishes to big reptiles.
• Let’s get out of the Intramuros neighbourhood and head to Chinatown. Go shopping in the huge malls with international brands.
• In Quiapo neighbourhood, explore Saint Sebastien Basilica, a hidden gem not many tourists know about. This basilica is entirely made out of steel, which is very unusual in Asia. Beautiful walls, sculptures and gardens to admire.
• Do not leave without having tasted the traditional Lechon. This spit-roast suckling pig dish is delicious!

Where to sleep in Manila?

• Mid-range: Sleep close to Intramuros in order to be ideally placed to discover the capital. For this we recommend the modern The Bayleaf Intramuros and its rooftop, or the more traditional Manila Prince Hotel.
• High-end: 2.5 km from the centre, the Okada Manila is a complex with an outdoor pool overlooking the famous Manila Bay, a casino, a spa and a wellness centre. It is the perfect place to start your trip in Manila.

What to do in Puerto Princesa?

This city is a must-see! Puerto Princesa is the island’s capital and the crossroad of transportation so you won’t miss it. You’ll return to the city later to catch your flight back to Manila at the end of your 1-week road trip in the Philippines.

• Go scuba diving to explore the underwater life.
• Take a boat ride on the island’s underground river, a natural wonder. There are many excursions from Puerto Princesa, and we particularly recommend this one.
• 30 minutes from Puerto Princesa, enjoy the beach at Honda Bay. You can also take a traditional boat trip to visit the 3 islands nearby, Luli Island, Starfish Island, Cowrie Island. We recommend this one in particular.
• In the vicinity of the town, near the river, there is a high concentration of fireflies, which creates an absolutely wonderful natural spectacle of hundreds of little lights flying in the sky. It is possible to observe this phenomenon during a boat trip.
• To party, the locals recommend the Tiki Resto Bar… Atmosphere guaranteed!

Where to sleep in Puerto Princesa?

• Mid-range: opt for authenticity at the B&B At Home, warm welcome, comfort, swimming pool and scooter rental are the big advantages of this establishment.
• High-end: for a little more comfort, a rooftop pool, free breakfast, a massage centre and the possibility to organise excursions, don’t wait any longer and book at Hue Hotels and Resorts Puerto Princesa.

What to do in El Nido?

Heaven on Earth, El Nido is a very popular part of the island because of its natural beauty. This is sure to be one of the most beautiful stops on this 1-week road trip in the Philippines. 

• Take a day to explore the Bacuit Archipelago of secret turquoise lagoons, beaches and rocky landscapes. There are several routes, A, B, C and D. It’s up to you to choose the one that suits you best! And a little advice: if you have the budget, take a private tour, so that you can personalise your trip and above all leave before the group tours, to enjoy your first spots alone in the world.
• Take trips to the neighbouring islands but don’t forget the Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon, which many travellers say are the most beautiful.
• You can explore the islands by renting canoes or kayaks. With such clear, warm water, who can resist the temptation to swim? You can also rent masks and snorkels for a snorkelling session… For that, head to the beautiful beaches of Las Cabanas and Lio Beach.

Where to sleep in El Nido?

• Mid-range: sleep for a very good price near the centre by booking at the South Anchorage Inn or the Bill Tourist Inn.
• High-end: for a dream stay, check out The Funny Lion. Restaurant, terrace, modern and cosy rooms, access to a private beach… it has everything to please!

What to do in Taytay?

A traditional Filipino village with beautiful pink flowers, Taytay or  the « small Hollywood », is located on Palawan Island, one of the most famous in the Philippines. This island, unlike its neighbours, is not very touristic making it even more charming. It’s a very relaxing stop on this 1-week road trip in the Philippines

• Eat local food in typical smalls cabins or bungalows.
• You’ve always dreamed of swimming with dolphins? Well you’re in the right place, you will get to meet a rare dolphin specie: the dugongs.
• Get on a rowboat on Manguao lake or Palawan lake.

Where to sleep in Taytay?

• Mid-range: As it is still a rather unknown place, the choice of accommodation is quite limited. We can recommend Pems Pension and Restaurant and D’Mesa Secretlodge and Restaurant for authentic and warmly welcoming stays.

What to do in Puerto Princesa?

Back in Puerto Princesa, you’ll get to do everything you didn’t have time to last time! Make the most of the last idyllic scenery on the penultimate stop of this 1-week road trip in the Philippines.  

• Go scuba diving to explore the underwater life.
• Take a boat ride on the island’s underground river, a natural wonder. There are many excursions from Puerto Princesa, and we particularly recommend this one.
• 30 minutes from Puerto Princesa, enjoy the beach at Honda Bay. You can also take a traditional boat trip to visit the 3 islands nearby, Luli Island, Starfish Island, Cowrie Island. We recommend this one in particular.
• In the vicinity of the town, near the river, there is a high concentration of fireflies, which creates an absolutely wonderful natural spectacle of hundreds of little lights flying in the sky. It is possible to observe this phenomenon during a boat trip.
• To party, the locals recommend the Tiki Resto Bar… Atmosphere guaranteed!

Where to sleep in Puerto Princesa?

• Mid-range: opt for authenticity at the B&B At Home, warm welcome, comfort, swimming pool and scooter rental are the big advantages of this establishment.
• High-end: for a little more comfort, a rooftop pool, free breakfast, a massage centre and the possibility to organise excursions, don’t wait any longer and book at Hue Hotels and Resorts Puerto Princesa.

What to do in Manila?

Back in Manila for the last days of your 1-week road trip in the Philippines ! 

• Explore the city’s historic neighbourhood: Intramuros. It is the oldest in the city with its churches, cathedrals, museums… The best way to get to know almost everything about the history of this area is to take a guided tour, either on foot to get around or by bike for a more sporty alternative.
• Rent a jeepney (military jeeps transformed as typical Philippines public transport) or just walk around the many streets.
• Start your visit of Intramuros with the Saint Augustin Church, which will tell you about the history of Philippines.
• Interested in Spanish colonisation?  Head to Santiago Fort (Intramuros), one of the rare ruins in the Philippines. And if you want to save money, keep in mind that you can get in for free on Sundays!
• Take advantage of a beautiful end of the day to go and have a drink on one of the many rooftops of the capital. Beautiful views and sunshine are to be expected!

More experiences in Manila:

• Stroll through Rizal Park (Intramuros) where locals spend most of their spare time having fun, having a picnic or just relaxing.
• You love animals? Go to Manila Ocean Park (Intramuros) a theme park that will let you get a closer look at the local wildlife, from small fishes to big reptiles.
• Let’s get out of the Intramuros neighbourhood and head to Chinatown. Go shopping in the huge malls with international brands.
• In Quiapo neighbourhood, explore Saint Sebastien Basilica, a hidden gem not many tourists know about. This basilica is entirely made out of steel, which is very unusual in Asia. Beautiful walls, sculptures and gardens to admire.
• Do not leave without having tasted the traditional Lechon. This spit-roast suckling pig dish is delicious!

Where to sleep in Manila?

• Mid-range: Sleep close to Intramuros in order to be ideally placed to discover the capital. For this we recommend the modern The Bayleaf Intramuros and its rooftop, or the more traditional Manila Prince Hotel.
• High-end: 2.5 km from the centre, the Okada Manila is a complex with an outdoor pool overlooking the famous Manila Bay, a casino, a spa and a wellness centre. It is the perfect place to start your trip in Manila.

Learn more about your road trip in the Philippines…

• You want to know all the information about the country ? It’s here.
• To book a flight at the best price, we advise you this website.
• You are looking for a great travel insurance for your 1-week road trip in the Philippines? We recommend this one!

Do not hesitate to share your trip with us, we can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!

If you have any information, good tips, or simply a comment about this itinerary, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below! The whole team will be happy to hear from you!