Itinerary Overview

D1–D2 Manila → D3–D5 Boracay → D6–D7 Cebu. Flights from Manila to Boracay (Kalibo or Caticlan) take about 1 hour, and Boracay to Cebu around 1 hour. Island transfers are via ferries and tricycles. The trip includes two domestic flights, so allow at least 3 hours for layovers.

D1–D2 Manila

• D1: Arrive in Manila → Explore Intramuros’ walls and Fort Santiago → Visit San Agustin Church → Watch the sunset at Rizal Park, then dine in Makati or BGC. In Intramuros, rent a horse-drawn carriage or bike to explore the Spanish-colonial streets.
• D2: Visit Manila Cathedral → National Museum → Shop in BGC in the afternoon, then fly to Boracay and check into a hotel near White Beach.

D3–D5 Boracay

• D3: Walk and swim at White Beach → Explore beaches S1 to S3 in the afternoon → Watch the sunset on a sailboat in the evening—this is Boracay’s most iconic scene and great for silhouette photos.
• D4: Island hopping (Crystal Cove, Puka Beach) → Snorkeling → Dine at D Mall in the evening; try grilled chicken and mango smoothies. Book the sunset sailboat on White Beach a day in advance—it’s a 1-hour trip and one of Boracay’s best experiences.
• D5: Visit Mount Luho viewpoint or take a helicopter island tour → Enjoy a beach massage in the afternoon → Fly to Cebu in the evening.

D6–D7 Cebu

• D6: See the Magellan’s Cross → Basilica Minore del Santo Niño → Fort San Pedro → Shop at SM Seaside City in the evening. Try Cebu’s famous lechon (roast pig). The Santo Niño Basilica houses the centuries-old image of the Santo Niño, a revered religious relic in the Philippines.
• D7: Choose a day trip to Oslob for whale shark watching or Moalboal for the sardine run → Return to Cebu Airport for departure.

Accommodation and Cost Guide

In Manila, stay in Makati or BGC for better safety and amenities; in Boracay, resorts along White Beach are most convenient—S1 is quieter, S2 livelier. In Cebu, consider areas near IT Park or SM malls. Mid-range 3–4 star hotels on popular islands cost about $56–$115 per night in peak season, dropping to half in low season.

Domestic flights and ferries are the main expenses: Manila–Boracay round trips cost $85–$170, Boracay–Cebu $42–$85. Booking early saves money. Island-hopping and snorkeling tours cost $7–$21 locally, usually including lunch and gear.

Tips

• Boracay requires arrival procedures at the pier; follow eco-rules—no food or smoking on the beach.
• Oslob whale shark tours start early; book ahead and don’t touch the sharks.
• Philippine domestic flights often delay; allow 3+ hours for connections and carry valuables with you.
• Ferries are weather-dependent; get travel insurance with delay coverage in rainy season.
• If typhoons or flight changes occur, consider switching to a Cebu–Bohol itinerary to avoid disruptions.