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Philippines · A flexible NxVoy holiday

A Family Odyssey: Manila, Cebu & Boracay in 7 Nights

Uncover centuries of heritage and unwind on the Philippines' most celebrated white-sand shores.
Duration
7 nights
Journey
Manila → Cebu → Boracay
Designed for
Families
Best time
December
Curated by
Harinee S
NxVoy Travel Editor✓ Verified Editorial
OverviewDay by dayPlaces to exploreStaysMake it yoursWhat to budget forGood to know
Shasa
A ready-made idea. A holiday you can change.

Choose your dates, compare live flights and hotels, then add or remove stops and experiences in your draft.

The journey

Embark on a meticulously crafted 7-night family adventure across the Philippines' most captivating islands: Manila, Cebu, and Boracay. This journey is designed to offer a perfect blend of cultural immersion, urban discovery, and unparalleled beach relaxation, ensuring cherished memories for every member of your family.

We've thoughtfully balanced city exploration with island serenity, allowing for seamless transitions and ample time to truly experience each destination. From the historical depths of Manila to the cultural heart of Cebu and the pristine beauty of Boracay, this itinerary promises a rich and varied experience without the rush, making it ideal for families seeking both enlightenment and blissful escape.

This curated experience ensures a deep dive into Filipino heritage before unwinding on world-renowned beaches, all while maintaining a comfortable pace and moderate budget. It's an invitation to discover the diverse wonders of the Philippines, tailored for a family of four.

Signature Moments

What you'll remember

01

Stepping into the ancient walls of Fort Santiago, imagining centuries of history unfold.

02

Witnessing Magellan's Cross, a symbol of the Philippines' unique blend of cultures.

03

The first glimpse of Boracay's pristine white sands and turquoise waters, a truly breathtaking sight.

04

Snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life at Crocodile Island, a shared family adventure.

Your days, your way

Your holiday, day by day

Start with this itinerary. In your draft, change the stops, stays and activities to suit your holiday.

8 days to exploreCustomisable in your draft
Fort Santiago, ManilaFort Santiago · Manila
Photo: Elmer B. Domingo / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 1 · Manila

Welcome to Manila: Stepping into Historic Intramuros

  1. Morning

    Arrive at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL). A private transfer will take your family to your hotel in Makati. Expect substantial travel time from the airport. Settle into your accommodation, preparing for the adventures ahead in Manila.

  2. Afternoon

    A transfer will take you approximately 6-8 km from Makati to Intramuros Walled City. Begin your discovery of this historic area, which is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This triangular stone Spanish fortress dates back to 1738.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Consider booking a guided tour with Lindela Travel and Tours or Gladex Travel And Tours for deeper insights into Intramuros.
  3. Evening

    Return to your hotel in Makati after your initial visit to Intramuros. Enjoy a relaxed family dinner and unwind, preparing for a deeper exploration of Manila's historical sites tomorrow. Plan for an early start.

Meal notes

Dinner on board your flight.

Helpful tips for today
  • Consider booking a guided tour with Lindela Travel and Tours or Gladex Travel And Tours for deeper insights into Intramuros.
Fort Santiago, ManilaFort Santiago · Manila
Photo: Elmer B. Domingo / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 2 · Manila

Manila's Colonial Echoes: Fort Santiago & San Agustin Church

  1. Morning

    Travel from your Makati hotel to Intramuros, approximately 6-8 km, considering city traffic. Begin your visit to Fort Santiago, a significant historical site within the Walled City. It is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Arrive early to Fort Santiago to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore the grounds and museum.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue exploring the grounds and museum within Fort Santiago. This citadel played a crucial role in Philippine history, offering educational insights for the family. Discover the remains of the 1738 triangular stone Spanish fortress.

  3. Evening

    After a day at Fort Santiago, return to your hotel in Makati. Enjoy a relaxing evening with your family, perhaps trying a local restaurant near your accommodation. Prepare for another historical day.

Meal notes

A late-night snack at the hotel upon arrival.

Helpful tips for today
  • Arrive early to Fort Santiago to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore the grounds and museum.
Liwasang Bonifacio, ManilaLiwasang Bonifacio · Manila
Photo: patrickroque01 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0CC BY-SA 4.0

Day 3 · Manila

Manila: second day

  1. Morning

    Travel from your Makati hotel to Intramuros, approximately 6-8 km, allowing for Manila's city traffic. Visit the San Agustin Church and Museum, open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is the oldest stone church in the Philippines.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Check the San Agustin Church and Museum's website for any specific mass schedules that might impact visiting hours.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue your exploration of the San Agustin Church and Museum. This museum focuses on the history and culture of regional Catholicism, including colonial-era artifacts, offering a rich historical experience for families.

  3. Evening

    After a day of historical discovery, return to your hotel in Makati. Enjoy a quiet evening with your family, reflecting on the colonial heritage explored in Intramuros. Rest well for your upcoming journey.

Meal notes

Try local Filipino dishes like Adobo or Sinigang for dinner.

Helpful tips for today
  • Check the San Agustin Church and Museum's website for any specific mass schedules that might impact visiting hours.
Magellan's Cross Pavilion, CebuMagellan's Cross Pavilion · Cebu
Photo: LMP 2001 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0CC BY-SA 4.0

Day 4 · Cebu

Journey to Cebu: Island Arrival & Mactan Relaxation

  1. Morning

    Start your inter-island transfer from Manila to Cebu. A private transfer will take your family to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) for your domestic flight to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB).

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Pre-book your domestic flight from MNL to CEB to secure preferred timings for your family.
  2. Afternoon

    Upon arrival at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), another private transfer will convey you to your hotel. Settle into your accommodation on Mactan Island, preparing for your Cebu adventures and relaxation.

  3. Evening

    Enjoy a relaxed evening at your Mactan Island hotel. Unwind after your travel day, perhaps with a family dinner at the hotel or a nearby restaurant. Prepare for historical discoveries in Cebu City tomorrow.

Meal notes

Enjoy fresh seafood available on Mactan Island.

Helpful tips for today
  • Pre-book your domestic flight from MNL to CEB to secure preferred timings for your family.
Magellan's Cross, CebuMagellan's Cross · Cebu
Photo: LMP 2001 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0CC BY-SA 4.0

Day 5 · Cebu

Cebu's Foundations: Magellan's Cross & Heritage Monument

  1. Morning

    A transfer will take your family from Mactan Island into Cebu City. Your first stop is Magellan's Cross, a pivotal historical landmark open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This cross was brought by Spanish explorers in 1521.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Magellan's Cross and the Heritage of Cebu Monument.
  2. Afternoon

    Following Magellan's Cross, visit the Heritage of Cebu Monument. This monument artistically depicts important events and buildings from Cebu's colonial past. It is open 24 hours, offering a detailed visual history.

  3. Evening

    Return to your Mactan Island hotel after a day of historical discovery in Cebu City. Enjoy a peaceful evening with your family, reflecting on the significant sites visited. Rest for the journey to Boracay tomorrow.

Meal notes

Try 'lechon' (roasted pig) which Cebu is famous for.

Helpful tips for today
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Magellan's Cross and the Heritage of Cebu Monument.

Day 6 · Boracay

Boracay Bliss: Arrival on White Sands

  1. Morning

    The journey to Boracay begins with a private transfer to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB). Board your domestic flight to Caticlan Airport (MPH), the gateway to Boracay island for your family.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Ensure all domestic flights and island transfers to Boracay are pre-booked for a smooth journey.
  2. Afternoon

    From Caticlan, a combined land and boat transfer will take your family across to Boracay island. Arrive at your resort and settle in, preparing to enjoy the island's famous white sands and clear waters.

  3. Evening

    Experience the renowned White Beach Boracay, open 24 hours. Enjoy a relaxed family walk along the shore as the sun sets. Find a pleasant spot for dinner, soaking in the island atmosphere.

Meal notes

Enjoy a casual beachfront dinner.

Helpful tips for today
  • Ensure all domestic flights and island transfers to Boracay are pre-booked for a smooth journey.

Day 7 · Boracay

Island Hopping Magic: Crystal Cove & Crocodile Island

  1. Morning

    Begin your Boracay island-hopping adventure. Board a local outrigger boat and cruise towards Crystal Cove Island. Enjoy time exploring the island's unique coves and natural rock formations. Family members can swim in the clear waters.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Pre-book your island hopping tour with a reputable agency like My Boracay Guide.
    • Arrive early at the departure point, often near White Beach, to secure a good spot on the boat.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue your island-hopping journey to the waters around Crocodile Island. This spot is renowned for its excellent snorkelling opportunities. Discover vibrant marine life and colourful corals beneath the surface, perfect for family viewing.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Ensure children wear life vests provided by the tour operator during snorkelling.
    • Bring waterproof cameras to capture underwater memories.
  3. Evening

    After a day of island exploration and water activities, return to Boracay's main island. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your leisure. Consider a pleasant stroll along White Beach, open 24 hours, before dinner.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • White Beach offers many dining options suitable for families.
Meal notes

Indulge in a fresh seafood barbecue on the beach.

Helpful tips for today
  • Pre-book your island hopping tour with a reputable agency like My Boracay Guide.
  • Arrive early at the departure point, often near White Beach, to secure a good spot on the boat.
  • Ensure children wear life vests provided by the tour operator during snorkelling.
  • Bring waterproof cameras to capture underwater memories.
  • White Beach offers many dining options suitable for families.

Day 8 · Boracay

Leisurely Farewell & Departure

  1. Morning

    Enjoy a final leisurely morning on Boracay. Take this opportunity for a relaxed breakfast at your resort or a last peaceful stroll along White Beach. The beach is open 24 hours for your convenience.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Double check your luggage and ensure all personal belongings are packed.
    • Consider an early breakfast to allow ample time for check-out.
  2. Afternoon

    Your departure transfer from Boracay will be arranged. This involves a combined boat and land journey back to Caticlan. Ensure you are ready for the transfer, allowing sufficient time for travel to the airport.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Confirm your exact departure time with your tour operator or resort the day before.
    • Keep your travel documents, including tickets and IDs, readily accessible.
  3. Evening

    The combined boat and land journey to Caticlan continues into the afternoon and evening. This marks the conclusion of your Boracay family adventure.

Meal notes

A light lunch before heading to the airport.

Helpful tips for today
  • Double check your luggage and ensure all personal belongings are packed.
  • Consider an early breakfast to allow ample time for check-out.
  • Confirm your exact departure time with your tour operator or resort the day before.
  • Keep your travel documents, including tickets and IDs, readily accessible.
Day 1 of 8

This is your starting plan. Available flights, hotels and activity options are checked when you build your draft.

Find your kind of holiday

Places worth exploring

The well-known sights and a few quieter discoveries. Explore photos and reviews, then shape your days in the draft.

Philippines

Rizal Park

Grand 57-hectare park featuring lawns, gardens, outdoor events & a monument to hero José Rizal.

Philippines

National Museum of Fine Arts

Massive museum with collections of Filipino fine art, archaeology, botany, natural history & more.

Philippines

Magellan's Cross

Cross brought by Spanish explorers in 1521, marking the start of Christianity in the Philippines.

Philippines

Manila Ocean Park

Aquatic theme park & educational facility featuring hands-on activities, an oceanarium & live shows.

Cebu

7107 Restaurant - Cebu City

Restaurant

A local sends you for the "Back Ribs" and "Radish Kimchi Fried Rice" which are "absolutely delicious" and come in "huge serving sizes", ensuring you leave "absolutely stuffed".

Cebu

Volté Specialty Café

Coffee Shop

Go for the "sea salt matcha", described as "creamy, smooth, and well-balanced", and "one of the best quality matcha in Cebu" that is "worth the price".

A local tip

Iced matcha has small serving size though, especially for the price.

Cebu

Herbs and Cellar

Restaurant

Visit for the "best paella" with a "hint of Filipino taste", the "fall off the bones backribs", and the "shrimp aglio" that reviewers "ordered another round" of.

Manila

Maeil Cafe, 매일다방

Cafe

Students and young visitors enjoy the creamy tteokbokki and the second floor's free wifi and outlets, making it a good place to study or bond with friends.

A local tip

Aim for the second floor for free wifi and outlets if you plan to study or work.

Anjo World Theme Park

Cebu

Anjo World Theme Park

Attraction
Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

Cebu

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

Attraction
CT19 - Private Quick Island Getaway - Carnaza + Lamanok Island

Cebu

CT19 - Private Quick Island Getaway - Carnaza + Lamanok Island

Tours
10-hr Chinese-speaking guide service in Cebu, Philippines|Customizable private charter service Day Tours

Cebu

10-hr Chinese-speaking guide service in Cebu, Philippines|Customizable private charter service Day Tours

Tours

These are ideas for your trip. Entry, tickets and opening times need checking; only services in your final booking are included.

The route

How you travel

  • Cebu → ManilaFerry crossing · 723 km · about 18.6 h
  • Manila → Boracay310 km · no road route, travelled by air or boat

A good place to come back to

Find a stay that feels like you

A little inspiration for where to stay. Your draft shows available hotels, room choices, meals and cancellation terms for your dates.

CSuites at 8 Newtown Mactan Cebu

Cebu · 2 nights

CSuites at 8 Newtown Mactan Cebu

Suggested stay · subject to availability
Belmont Hotel Manila near NAIA Terminal 3 MNL

Manila · 3 nights

Belmont Hotel Manila near NAIA Terminal 3 MNL

Suggested stay · subject to availability
Fairways & Bluewater Boracay

Boracay · 2 nights

Fairways & Bluewater Boracay

Suggested stay · subject to availability

This is your NxVoy holiday

Love the idea. Make it yours.

Pick your dates and who is travelling. Shasa turns this route into a draft with live options for you to compare and customise.

Make the route yours

Ask Shasa to add or remove stops and decide how long you want to stay.

Choose your stays

Compare live hotel and room options that suit your budget.

Find flights that fit

Review flight choices from your home city for your travel dates.

Build your kind of day

Add experiences, swap plans or leave time to explore on your own.

Shasa AI
From inspiration to your own holiday

Review what is available and the full price before checkout. Building a draft does not make a booking.

Plan with the full picture

What to budget for

What this sample holiday is built around. Your selected flights, stays and activities determine the final price and inclusions in the draft.

In this holiday plan

  • 7 nights accommodation in selected 3-4 star hotels
  • Daily breakfast at hotels
  • International return economy class flights from Bengaluru to Lapu-Lapu City, returning from Malay
  • Private airport transfers in Manila, Cebu, and Boracay (land and boat components)
  • Activities as per itinerary: Fort Santiago (Manila), San Agustin Church and Museum (Manila), Magellan's Cross (Cebu), Heritage of Cebu Monument (Cebu), Boracay Island Hopping Tour (Crystal Cove Island, Crocodile Island)
  • Estimated budget for lunch and dinner as per itinerary
  • All applicable taxes and service charges for included items

Plan for these extras

  • −International flights (Mumbai to Manila and return from Caticlan)
  • −Visa fees (if applicable)
  • −Travel insurance
  • −Personal expenses (e.g., shopping, optional tours, mini-bar, laundry)

A little preparation goes a long way

Good to know

Useful details to help you decide, with the finer points confirmed for your own trip.

When to goDecember, January, February, March, April. Avoid July, August, September
Local currencyPhilippine Peso (₱)
Your starting price₹83,900

per person, twin-share. Includes return flights and all stays. Ground transfers quoted with your itinerary.

Local know-how
  • Museums like Casa Gorordo and 1730 Jesuit House typically charge an entrance fee of ₱100-₱150, with a higher price for a guided tour.
  • Be aware that parking, especially at places like Mandani Bay Boardwalk, can be surprisingly expensive, often uncovered, and spaces may be full.
  • Some attractions like Lakeview Le Jardin can take almost two hours to reach by motorcycle, so plan your travel time accordingly.
  • Some parks like Arroceros Forest Park close early, with its schedule only lasting until 5:00pm, so plan your visits accordingly.
  • Entry fees vary; Puerta Real Gardens is free, but historical sites like Baluarte de San Diego and San Diego Gardens cost 75 pesos for adults.
Everyday costs to consider
  • Cebu: Expect to pay ₱100-₱150 for museum entrance fees, and be prepared for surprisingly expensive parking at some attractions.
  • Manila: Entry to historical sites like Baluarte de San Diego and San Diego Gardens costs 75 pesos for adults, while Puerta Real Gardens is free; dining at places like Cafe K Manila can be affordable for groups of four.
  • Boracay: A Choco Moist Cake costs 450 pesos at SweetFrap Bake House, but generally, be aware that tourist prices on the island can sometimes be inflated.
When is the best time to visit Cebu, Manila, Boracay?

December, January, February, March, April. Avoid July, August, September

How many days is A Family Odyssey: Manila, Cebu & Boracay in 7 Nights?

8 days and 7 nights, across 3 destinations.

Which places does A Family Odyssey: Manila, Cebu & Boracay in 7 Nights cover?

Cebu, Manila, Boracay. The day-by-day plan on this page shows exactly how the nights are split and how you travel between them.

Where will we stay?

CSuites at 8 Newtown Mactan Cebu (Cebu, 2 nights); Belmont Hotel Manila near NAIA Terminal 3 MNL (Manila, 3 nights); Fairways & Bluewater Boracay (Boracay, 2 nights). These are suggested stays. In your draft, compare available hotels and choose your rooms, meal plans and cancellation terms for your travel dates.

What are the lesser-known things to do in Cebu, Manila, Boracay?

7107 Restaurant - Cebu City — A local sends you for the "Back Ribs" and "Radish Kimchi Fried Rice" which are "absolutely delicious" and come in "huge serving sizes", ensuring you leave "absolutely stuffed".; Volté Specialty Café — Go for the "sea salt matcha", described as "creamy, smooth, and well-balanced", and "one of the best quality matcha in Cebu" that is "worth the price".; Herbs and Cellar — Visit for the "best paella" with a "hint of Filipino taste", the "fall off the bones backribs", and the "shrimp aglio" that reviewers "ordered another round" of.; Maeil Cafe, 매일다방 — Students and young visitors enjoy the creamy tteokbokki and the second floor's free wifi and outlets, making it a good place to study or bond with friends.; Cafe K Manila — Locals recommend the oxtail kare-kare and fresh mango juice; the menu is quite affordable, especially when dining as a group of at least four..

What are the must-see highlights of Cebu, Manila, Boracay?

Rizal Park; National Museum of Fine Arts; Magellan's Cross; Manila Ocean Park; Boracay; Intramuros Walled City.

Who is A Family Odyssey: Manila, Cebu & Boracay in 7 Nights best suited to?

A family of four (2 adults, 2 kids) seeking a blend of cultural exploration, urban excitement, and pristine beach relaxation in the Philippines.

Can this trip be customised to my dates and travellers?

Yes. Choose Customise this holiday, add your dates and travellers, and open your Shasa draft. Ask Shasa to add or remove stops, compare flights and hotels, and adjust activities before booking. Our travel experts can also help on WhatsApp.

How much does A Family Odyssey: Manila, Cebu & Boracay in 7 Nights cost?

From ₹83,900 per person, twin-share. Includes return flights and all stays. Ground transfers quoted with your itinerary.. This is a starting price. Choose Customise this holiday to enter your dates and travellers, compare available options in your draft and review the updated total before checkout.

What's included in this 7-night itinerary?

7 nights accommodation in selected 3-4 star hotels; Daily breakfast at hotels; International return economy class flights from Bengaluru to Lapu-Lapu City, returning from Malay; Private airport transfers in Manila, Cebu, and Boracay (land and boat components); Activities as per itinerary: Fort Santiago (Manila), San Agustin Church and Museum (Manila), Magellan's Cross (Cebu), Heritage of Cebu Monument (Cebu), Boracay Island Hopping Tour (Crystal Cove Island, Crocodile Island); Estimated budget for lunch and dinner as per itinerary; All applicable taxes and service charges for included items. These describe the sample holiday. Review the inclusions of your chosen flights, stays and activities in the draft before booking.

What is not included in A Family Odyssey: Manila, Cebu & Boracay in 7 Nights?

International flights (Mumbai to Manila and return from Caticlan); Visa fees (if applicable); Travel insurance; Personal expenses (e.g., shopping, optional tours, mini-bar, laundry).

How do I book A Family Odyssey: Manila, Cebu & Boracay in 7 Nights?

Choose Customise this holiday and tell Shasa your departure city, dates and travellers. Review the draft, choose your available flight and hotel options, and adjust the itinerary. Check the final price and each service's booking terms before continuing to checkout. Creating a draft does not make a booking.

Do I need a visa for Cebu, Manila, Boracay?

Visa requirements depend on your passport, residence and destinations. Ask a NxVoy travel expert about the documents, timing and any visa-service charges for your trip before booking.

Starting price
₹83,900
per person, twin-share. Includes return flights and all stays. Ground transfers quoted with your itinerary.
Talk to a travel expert
Choose your dates and travellers. Compare live options in your draft, then review the total before checkout.
H
Curated by Harinee S
NxVoy Travel Editor · here when you need help
  • Your route, your pace — add or remove stops
  • Compare flights, stays & activities
  • Review before checkout, you choose what to book
  • Cancellation terms shown for each live option
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From, per person₹83,900

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