17-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Philippines
The Philippines is a dream destination for families seeking a blend of cultural heritage, wildlife encounters, and world-class beaches. This 17-day itinerary is crafted for those traveling with children, prioritizing a relaxed pace, stroller-friendly paths where possible, and comfortable transfers between the nation's most iconic regions.
By focusing on the major hubs of Manila, Bohol, Cebu, and Palawan, your family will experience the diverse beauty of the archipelago without the stress of constant, frantic travel. Each stop offers a unique window into Filipino hospitality, ensuring a memorable and epic journey for all ages.
Day 1: Manila, Philippines - Arrival & Ease In
Airport Arrival and Transfer
Touch down at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. After clearing customs, meet your pre-arranged driver for a smooth ride to your hotel in the Makati or Bonifacio Global City (BGC) area.
Lunch at BGC High Street
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in BGC. This open-air shopping district is entirely stroller-accessible and features wide, pedestrianized walkways.
Mind Museum Exploration
Visit the Mind Museum, a world-class science museum with interactive exhibits that will keep kids entertained for hours while they learn about the natural world and technology.
Sunset Dinner at the Park
Wind down with a casual dinner near Terra 28th Park, where kids can run around in a safe, modern urban green space.
Day 2: Manila, Philippines - Historic Wonders
Intramuros Kalesa Tour
Explore the 'Walled City' of Intramuros. Instead of walking, take a horse-drawn kalesa ride to see Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, which is much easier for little legs.
Lunch at Barbara's Heritage Restaurant
Dine in a beautiful colonial-style setting with traditional Filipino music. The atmosphere is welcoming for families and offers a great introduction to local cuisine.
Rizal Park Stroll
Head to the nearby Luneta Park (Rizal Park). It’s a massive open space perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk, featuring gardens and a large musical fountain.
Manila Bay Sunset
Walk along the baywalk to catch the famous Manila sunset before heading back to the hotel for an early night.
Day 3: Manila to Bohol, Philippines - Island Transition
Flight to Tagbilaran
Take a domestic flight from Manila to Panglao/Bohol. The flight is short (about 1.5 hours), making it very manageable for children.
Resort Check-in
Check into your family-friendly resort on Panglao Island. Many resorts here offer direct beach access and kid-friendly pools.
Pool and Beach Time
Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or letting the kids play in the shallow, calm waters of Alona Beach.
Beachfront Seafood Dinner
Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner right on the sand. Many restaurants offer grilled options that are simple and kid-friendly.
Day 4: Bohol, Philippines - Wildlife and Hills
Chocolate Hills Viewpoint
Witness the 1,268 cone-shaped hills. The main viewing deck is paved, though there are steps to reach the very top. Carriers are recommended over strollers for the viewpoint itself.
Tarsier Sanctuary
Visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella. It’s a quiet, shaded walk where you can spot these tiny primates in their natural habitat. Silence is required, so it's a great 'quiet time' activity.
Loboc River Cruise
Enjoy a buffet lunch on a floating restaurant. The gentle boat ride down the river includes local music and a stop to see traditional dancers.
Man-Made Forest
A quick photo stop in the mahogany forest for some fresh air and a break from the tropical sun.
Day 5: Bohol, Philippines - Dolphin Watching
Dolphin Watching Tour
Board a private outrigger boat to spot dolphins playing in the wild. Starting early ensures the best chance of sightings and avoids the midday heat.
Balicasag Island Snorkeling
The boat will take you to Balicasag Island, where the water is crystal clear and perfect for even young children to see fish from the boat or shallow water.
Island Picnic Lunch
Have a simple local lunch on the island before heading back to the mainland.
Hinagdanan Cave
Visit this naturally lit limestone cave. It’s a short walk down and features a stunning underground pool.
Day 6: Bohol to Cebu City, Philippines - Sea Voyage
Fast Ferry to Cebu
Take the OceanJet fast ferry from Tagbilaran to Cebu City. Business class is recommended for the extra legroom and air conditioning.
Cebu Arrival & Lunch
Upon arrival in Cebu, head straight for a lunch of 'Cebu Lechon' (roasted pig), a local delicacy that even picky eaters usually love.
Magellan’s Cross and Basilica
Visit these historic sites in the city center. The areas are generally paved and accessible for strollers.
Fort San Pedro
A small, manageable fort with a garden area where children can explore safely in an enclosed historical setting.
Day 7: Cebu City, Philippines - Mountain Views
Sirao Flower Garden
Drive up to the 'Little Amsterdam' of Cebu. The vibrant colors and whimsical structures are a hit with children and make for great photos.
Lunch with a View
Eat at a restaurant in the Busay area, offering panoramic views of Cebu City and the ocean beyond.
Temple of Leah
Explore this grand, Grecian-style temple built as a symbol of undying love. The wide open plaza is great for kids to walk around.
SM Seaside City Mall
End the day at one of the world's largest malls. It features a massive indoor playground and an Olympic-sized ice rink.
Day 8: Mactan Island, Philippines - Resort Fun
Move to Mactan Island
Transfer to a beachfront resort on Mactan. This island is connected to Cebu by bridges and is the hub for water sports.
Kids Club and Activities
Most resorts on Mactan have dedicated Kids Clubs. Take advantage of this to let the kids play while you enjoy a spa treatment.
Lunch at the Resort
A relaxed poolside lunch featuring tropical fruit shakes and club sandwiches.
Mactan Shrine
Visit the monument of Lapu-Lapu. The park is small, flat, and located right by the water, perfect for a short cultural excursion.
Day 9: Cebu to Puerto Princesa, Philippines - Palawan Bound
Flight to Puerto Princesa
Fly from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Puerto Princesa, the gateway to Palawan.
City Baywalk Stroll
After checking in, head to the Baywalk for a late lunch. It’s a wide, paved promenade perfect for a family stroll by the sea.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue
Commonly known as the Crocodile Farm, this center offers a safe way for kids to see various endemic species and learn about conservation.
Kalui Restaurant Dinner
Eat at this famous artistic restaurant. You leave your shoes at the door, making it a fun, cozy experience for the kids.
Day 10: Puerto Princesa, Philippines - Underground River
Travel to Sabang
A scenic drive to the village of Sabang, the jump-off point for the UNESCO World Heritage Underground River.
Underground River Tour
Board a paddleboat through the cave. Children usually find the bats and rock formations fascinating. Life jackets are provided for all sizes.
Sabang Beach Lunch
Enjoy a buffet lunch at Sabang Beach before heading back to the city.
Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour
A quiet, eco-friendly tour through the mangroves, providing a peaceful contrast to the morning's adventure.
Day 11: Puerto Princesa to El Nido, Philippines - The Road North
Private Van Transfer
Travel to El Nido. While a 5-6 hour drive, a private van allows for frequent bathroom and snack breaks, essential for family travel.
El Nido Arrival
Arrive in El Nido and check into your accommodation. Choose a stay slightly outside the main town for a quieter atmosphere.
Corong-Corong Beach Sunset
This beach is flatter and quieter than El Nido town, making it perfect for a relaxed family sunset and early dinner.
Rest and Recharge
Take it easy after the long drive to prepare for the island hopping ahead.
Day 12: El Nido, Philippines - Island Hopping Tour A
Big Lagoon Exploration
Tour A is the most popular. Big Lagoon involves a slow boat entry or kayaking, which is very safe for kids sitting in the middle of the kayak.
Secret Lagoon Picnic
Enjoy a grilled lunch prepared by the crew on a white sand beach.
Shimizu Island Snorkeling
A great spot for kids to see colorful fish right from the boat ladder.
Seven Commandos Beach
A final stop with a beach bar and swings, perfect for the kids to play while parents relax with a coconut.
Day 13: El Nido, Philippines - Inland Relaxation
Nacpan Beach Trip
Hire a tricycle or private car to Nacpan Beach. This 4km stretch of golden sand is wide, flat, and perfect for building sandcastles.
Lunch at Mad Monkey
Grab a casual burger or local dish at one of the beachfront eateries.
Lio Estate Stroll
On the way back, stop at Lio Estate. It's a modern, eco-friendly development with paved paths, boutique shops, and a very stroller-accessible beachfront.
Dinner at Lio
Enjoy a high-quality meal at one of Lio's many restaurants before returning to your hotel.
Day 14: El Nido, Philippines - Island Hopping Tour C
Hidden Beach Adventure
Tour C is known for its beautiful beaches. Hidden Beach is tucked away behind limestone cliffs and offers very calm, shallow water for kids.
Matinloc Shrine
Visit this unique abandoned shrine for some history and stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Star Beach Lunch
Another incredible BBQ lunch on a secluded beach. The simplicity of fresh grilled chicken and fruit is always a winner for families.
Helicopter Island
Named for its shape, this island has a long, sandy beach and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Day 15: El Nido to Manila, Philippines - Return Journey
Flight to Manila
Avoid the 6-hour drive back to Puerto Princesa by taking a direct boutique flight from El Nido (Lio Airport) to Manila.
Manila Hotel Check-in
Return to a comfortable hotel in Manila. Consider staying in the Malate or Ermita area for a different vibe or return to BGC for convenience.
Shopping at Mall of Asia
One of the world's largest malls. It has an indoor amusement park and a large ferris wheel overlooking the bay.
Final Family Feast
Celebrate your last full day with a buffet dinner featuring international and local cuisines.
Day 16: Manila, Philippines - Souvenirs and Culture
National Museum of Natural History
A beautiful museum with a stunning central 'Tree of Life' structure. The exhibits are modern and very engaging for children.
Binondo Food Walk
Visit the world's oldest Chinatown. While busy, it's a sensory delight. Stick to the main streets if you have a stroller.
Souvenir Shopping at Kultura
Find high-quality, locally made crafts, dried mangoes, and shirts at Kultura (located inside SM Malls).
Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a quiet dinner at the hotel to pack and prepare for tomorrow's departure.
Day 17: Manila, Philippines - Departure
Last Minute Pastries
Grab some fresh 'Ensaymada' or 'Pandesal' from a local bakery for the trip home.
Checkout and Relax
Enjoy the hotel facilities until it’s time to leave for the airport.
Transfer to Airport
Head back to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Aim to arrive 3 hours before your international flight.
Flight Departure
Safe travels home with a heart full of island memories.
Best Time to Visit Philippines
The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. For families, the months of January and February are particularly ideal as the weather is cooler and less humid. March to May can be quite hot, though perfect for beach activities. Avoid the typhoon season from July to October, as travel plans can be frequently disrupted by weather-related flight and ferry cancellations.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities like Manila and Cebu and at large resorts, the Philippines remains a cash-heavy society, especially in places like El Nido and Bohol. It is essential to carry cash for smaller restaurants, tricycle rides, and local markets. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; a 10% tip or rounding up the bill is standard for good service.
Getting Around Philippines
Intercity travel in the Philippines often involves a mix of domestic flights, ferries, and private vans. For families, domestic flights (Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirSwift) are the fastest and most comfortable way to jump between island groups. Within islands, private car rentals or van hires are much more convenient than public buses for those with children and strollers. In cities, the 'Grab' ride-hailing app is the safest and most reliable way to navigate traffic.
