With 7,641 islands covered in white-sand beaches, lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it’ll be a long time before anyone runs out of things to do in the Philippines. History and culture shine in Manila while Quezon City attracts with its world-class entertainment industry. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing on pristine beaches, exploring historic cities or indulging in local delicacies, our custom packages including flights and hotels will make your tropical escape unforgettable.
Mood: vacation favourites
Visit Philippines: get started
If you’re wondering where to go in the Philippines, look no further. Follow our Philippines travel guide and learn about the country’s top spots. For natural beauty and wildlife watching, head to Boracay, famous for its White Beach and crystal-clear waters, Palawan to see its stunning lagoons and the Underground River, or Cebu for the Kawasan Falls or to go whale shark watching in Oslob. Interested in some city life? Visit the capital city of Manila for its vibrant shopping districts and world-class museums.
Feeling inspired? Put together your own itinerary with the help of our Flight & Hotel packages and see the Philippines your way.
Philippines travel guide
Destination facts
Language
Filipino and English are both official languages.
When to visit
The best time to visit the Philippines is from December to April, during the dry season, when the country is sunny and warm.
What to bring back
Dried mangoes are a delicious souvenir, specialty coffee beans, Filipino pearls and other pearl products, hand-held fans, ube jams, Filipino chocolates, woven bayong bags and handmade miniature guitars or ukeleles.
What to eat
Philippine adobo (stewed pork or chicken) is the unofficial national dish, desserts like halo-halo (crushed ice and evaporated milk topped with fruits, jams and other sweets), pastries like ensaymada (topped with cheese or filled with ube and coconut), street foods like lumpia (spring rolls) or kwek-kwek (deep-fried quail eggs), and fresh fruits like mango, durian, soursop and cherimoya.
Fun fact
The world’s largest certified pearl, the Giga Pearl, was found in the Philippines. It weighs 25.65 kilograms, or 138,254 carats, and is valued at more than $140 million.
Important info
For more information on all necessary documents for travel to the Philippines from Canada including visa, taxes and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
