The Philippines isn’t just one destination- it’s 7,000 tropical adventures waiting to happen.
The Philippines has lively cities and secret lagoons, sunlit islands and coral-filled seas, and everything with its unique story. To truly enjoy its beauty, it’s important to carefully choose where to stay.
Whether you want to dive among WWII shipwrecks in Coron, chase waterfalls in Cebu, walk along Manila’s colonial streets, or relax on Boracay’s powdery sands, the right stay can transform your trip from good to unforgettable.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best places to stay across the Philippines- by area, budget, and travel style.
So whether you’re a luxury seeker, island explorer, or budget backpacker, you’ll know exactly where to drop your bags and call it home.
List of the Best Places to Stay in the Philippines
Let’s explore the places in the Philippines to plan your stay and explore the best places in the Philippines.
Coron
Coron is one of those places in Northern Palawan that feels untouched by time. Unlike larger islands, Coron’s charm lies in its remoteness.
The highlights
- Underwater shipwrecks (from World War II)
- Emerald lagoons
- Dramatic limestone cliffs
- Crystal-clear diving spots.
Choosing where to stay here truly shapes your travel experience.
If you stay near Coron Town Proper, you’ll enjoy easy access to island-hopping tours, restaurants, and local life.
But for those who crave seclusion and postcard views, the beachfront resorts on private islands offer a different kind of magic- one filled with tranquillity and exclusivity.
How to Travel in Coron
Getting around Coron is simple and part of its charm. Here’s how you can explore
- Tricycles: The most common and affordable way to move around Coron Town.
- Boats: Essential for island-hopping tours to Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and nearby islets.
- Vans or Private Transfers: Usually arranged by hotels for airport or resort transfers.
- Motorbike Rentals: Great for independent travellers wanting to explore hidden beaches at their own pace.
Things to Do in Coron
Coron’s natural beauty is endless, so make sure you tick off these must-do experiences
- Visit Kayangan Lake
- Explore Twin Lagoon
- Relax at Maquinit Hot Spring
- Climb Mount Tapyas for sunset views
- Explore hauntingly beautiful WWII Shipwreck & try Diving
- Explore Banul Beach & CYC Beach
Best Hotels to Stay in the Philippines’ Coron
|
Category |
Area & Stay Recommendations |
Vibe & Highlights |
|
Luxury (₹20,000+ per night) |
Private islands, infinity pools, fine dining, and oceanfront villas | |
|
Mid-Range (₹8,000 to ₹18,000/ night) |
Boutique-style hotels with rooftop jacuzzis, bay views, and easy access to town restaurants. |
|
|
Budget-friendly (Under ₹8,000/ night) |
|
Central, social, and affordable. Great for backpackers and solo travellers who want comfort without breaking the bank. |
Manila
Manila is where colonial history and a modern city can be seen. It is a lively capital that never really slows down.
At first glance, it can feel a little crowded, but give it time, and you’ll start to notice its layers- from heritage streets in Intramuros to skyline views in Makati and creative corners in Poblacion.
This city is more than just a gateway to the islands; it’s a destination in its own right. Whether you’re here for a short layover, business trip, or a few days of urban exploration, the neighbourhood you choose can truly shape your Manila experience.
There are a lot of things to do in Manila. Each area tells a different story- Intramuros whispers of the Spanish past, Makati hums with modern rhythm, and BGC dazzles with global polish.
So before you dive into the city’s chaos and charm, here’s where to stay to make the most of your Manila adventure.
How to Travel in Manila
Getting around Manila can be hectic, but there are plenty of convenient ways to explore
- Grab (ride-hailing app): The easiest and most reliable way to get around the city.
- MRT & LRT Trains: Best for avoiding traffic during rush hours.
- Taxis: Readily available, but always insist on using the meter.
- Jeepneys: Colourful local minibuses- cheap and fun for short rides.
- Walking: Ideal only in compact areas like Intramuros or Bonifacio Global City (BGC).
Tip: Stay near your main points of interest- traffic in Manila can be unpredictable.
Things to Do in Manila
Manila is an exciting mix of history, culture, and nightlife. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss
- Explore Intramuros
- Visit Rizal Park
- Shop in Makati or BGC
- Check out Poblacion
- Experience Binondo
- Cultural Stop at the National Museum
Best Hotels to Stay in Manila
| Category | Area & Stay Recommendations | Vibe & Highlights |
|
Luxury (₹15,000+ per night) |
Elegant 5-star properties with pools, city views, and world-class dining. | |
|
Mid-Range (₹8,000 to ₹18,000 per night) |
Stylish stays close to nightlife or heritage areas, offering rooftop bars, comfort, and great locations. | |
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Budget-Friendly (Under ₹8,000 per night) |
Clean, central, and social. Perfect for backpackers and solo travellers wanting modern amenities at affordable rates. |
Cebu
Cebu is where the Philippines’ island life meets urban energy. Known as the “Queen City of the South,” it’s a perfect blend of beaches, waterfalls, and city comforts.
You can wake up to skyscraper views, spend your afternoon chasing waterfalls in the highlands, and end the night at a beachside bar- all in a single day. Not just this, there are many things to do in Cebu waiting for you!
What makes accommodation in Cebu special is its versatility. Whether you want luxury beachfront villas in Mactan, boutique city hotels in Cebu City, or nature resorts near Kawasan Falls, there’s something for every type of traveller.
How to Travel in Cebu
Getting around Cebu is easy once you know the basics
- Taxis & Grab Cars: Best for city travel- convenient and metered.
- Jeepneys: The iconic Filipino ride- perfect for short, local trips on a budget.
- Buses & Vans: Ideal for intercity routes between Cebu City, Moalboal, and Oslob.
- Motorbike Rentals: Great for adventurers exploring waterfalls and hidden beaches.
- Ferries: Connect Cebu to nearby islands like Bohol and Negros.
Things to Do in Cebu
Cebu has it all: history, adventure, and island-hopping fun. Don’t miss
- Swim with whale sharks in Oslob
- Dive or snorkel in Moalboal’s Sardine Run
- Visit the Basilica del Santo Niño in downtown Cebu City
- Chase the turquoise cascades of Kawasan Falls
- Take a day trip to Sumilon Island
- Explore the Temple of Leah and the Taoist Temple for cultural insight
- Enjoy nightlife and dining in IT Park and Ayala Center Cebu
Best Hotels to Stay in Cebu
|
Category |
Area & Stay Recommendations |
Vibe & Highlights |
|
Luxury (₹18,000+ / night) |
Private beaches, world-class spa treatments, and 5-star island living. |
|
|
Mid-Range (₹6,000 to ₹15,000 / night) |
Family-friendly comfort, beachfront charm, and modern amenities close to Cebu’s main attractions. | |
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Budget-Friendly (Under ₹6,000 / night) |
Clean, social, and affordable. |
El Nido
El Nido is the kind of place that looks like it’s been pulled straight from Instagram images- turquoise lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and hidden beaches you can only reach by boat.
It’s the ultimate place for travellers seeking nature, adventure, and serenity. What makes staying in El Nido so important is its location.
The town itself is lively, close to most tours and offers you many great activities to do, but if you want peace and postcard-worthy sunsets, you’ll find that just a few kilometres away in Lio or Corong-Corong.
For complete seclusion, island resorts in Bacuit Bay redefine luxury with private beaches and overwater villas.
How to Travel in El Nido
Getting around El Nido is simple but slightly adventurous- here’s how most travellers explore
- Tricycles: The main mode of transport around El Nido Town and nearby beaches.
- Motorbike Rentals: Great for visiting beaches like Nacpan or exploring rural roads.
- Boats: Essential for island-hopping tours A, B, C, and D- your ticket to lagoons and hidden coves.
- Shuttle Vans: Connect El Nido to Puerto Princesa and other Palawan destinations.
- Walking: Many cafés, bars, and beachfront spots in El Nido Town are just a short stroll away.
Things to Do in El Nido
Every corner of El Nido feels like a scene from a travel postcard. Here are the must-do experiences
- Island-hopping Tours (Visit Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Beach, and Shimizu Island).
- Relax at Nacpan Beach
- Climb Taraw Cliff
- Swim and snorkel at Seven Commandos Beach.
- Kayak through hidden lagoons for peaceful exploration.
- Visit Lio Beach for eco-resorts, chill cafés, and fewer crowds.
Best Hotels to Stay in El Nido
|
Category |
Area & Stay Recommendations | Vibe & Highlights |
| Luxury
(₹22,000+ / night) |
Private island luxury, crystal-clear lagoons, and top-notch service. |
|
|
Mid-Range (₹7,000 to ₹18,000 / night) |
Beachfront elegance with eco-friendly touches, close to town yet tranquil. |
|
|
Budget (Under ₹7,000 / night) |
Social, vibrant, and comfortable stays. |
Boracay
Boracay is known for its powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and buzzing nightlife.
It’s small enough to explore on foot, yet diverse enough to offer everything from quiet romantic escapes to lively beach parties.
The key to enjoying Boracay is choosing the right station to stay in. The island is divided into three main areas
- Station 1
- Station 2
- Station 3
Whether you want luxury, relaxation, or fun, your experience will depend entirely on where you unpack your bags.
How to Travel in Boracay
Despite being a small island, Boracay is well-organised for travellers. Here’s how to get around
- E-Trikes: The eco-friendly way to move around the island; affordable and everywhere.
- Motorbike Rentals: Great for exploring backroads and hidden beaches like Puka Shell Beach.
- Walking: The best way to enjoy White Beach- most cafés and bars are beachfront and close together.
- Boats: Used for island-hopping and water sports activities.
- Airport Transfers: Caticlan is the nearest airport, with short boat rides directly to Boracay Island.
Things to Do in Boracay
From lazy beach days to adrenaline-pumping adventures, Boracay has many things to do
- Relax on White Beach
- Go parasailing or helmet diving
- Take an island-hopping tour (Crystal Cove and Crocodile Island)
- Try kitesurfing at Bulabog Beach
- Hike to Mount Luho Viewpoint
- Watch the fire dancers
- Indulge in seafood feasts
Best Hotels to Stay in Boracay
|
Category |
Area & Stay Recommendations |
Vibe & Highlights |
|
Luxury (₹15,000+ / night) |
Private beaches, infinity pools, and sunset cocktails. |
|
|
Mid-Range (₹7,000 to ₹15,000 / night) |
Stylish beachfront resorts offering a balance of comfort and location |
|
|
Budget (Under ₹7,000 / night) |
|
Affordable for solo travellers who still want easy beach access and proximity to nightlife. |
Conclusion
The Philippines is not just a country- it’s a collection of moments.
From the shipwrecks of Coron to the limestone cliffs of El Nido, the urban rhythm of Manila, the adventure-filled Cebu, and the dreamy beaches of Boracay, every destination offers a distinct experience.
So, where you stay and the best time to visit affect your memories of the trip. Whether you choose a luxury resort by turquoise waters, a mid-range boutique with local charm, or a budget hostel full of backpacker stories, your accommodation adds its own magic to your journey.
So, as you plan your island-hopping the Philippines itinerary, choose your base not just for convenience- but for how it makes you feel.
Because here, even the simplest accommodation comes with a smile, a sea breeze, and a view worth waking up early for.
Frequently Asked Questions on Where to Stay in the Philippines
What is the best place to stay in the Philippines for first-time travellers?
If it’s your first time in the Philippines, Cebu or Boracay are great starting points. They combine beautiful beaches, accessibility, and plenty of resorts, restaurants, and nightlife options.
Where should I stay in the Philippines for island-hopping?
For island-hopping, El Nido and Coron are unbeatable. Both offer stunning lagoons, hidden beaches, and clear waters- perfect for daily boat tours and snorkelling adventures.
What’s the best area to stay in Manila for tourists?
Stay in Makati or Bonifacio Global City (BGC). These areas are safe, modern, and filled with cafés, shopping malls, and nightlife options- perfect for travellers exploring the capital.
Which place in the Philippines has the best luxury resorts?
Boracay and Palawan (especially El Nido) are home to the country’s top luxury resorts. You’ll find overwater villas, infinity pools, and world-class service surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Is it expensive to stay in the Philippines?
Not necessarily. The Philippines offers something for every budget- from ₹1,000-a-night hostels to ₹50,000-a-night private island resorts. It’s one of Southeast Asia’s most flexible destinations for travellers.
