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Philippines · A flexible NxVoy holiday

A Romantic Odyssey: Manila, El Nido & Boracay's Azure Charms

Where vibrant city pulse meets the serene embrace of pristine tropical seas.
Duration
6 nights
Journey
Manila → El Nido → Boracay → Cebu
Designed for
Couples
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 an enchanting 6-night journey across the Philippines, meticulously crafted for couples seeking both vibrant exploration and serene intimacy. This itinerary gracefully balances the historical allure of Manila, the dramatic natural beauty of El Nido, and the world-renowned beaches of Boracay, culminating in the cultural heart of Cebu.

We've designed this experience to offer a comprehensive yet unhurried exploration, ensuring ample moments for relaxation and romantic connection. From kayaking through hidden lagoons to witnessing breathtaking sunsets, every detail is curated for quality and unforgettable shared memories.

This journey is ideal for couples yearning for a curated blend of historical charm, pristine beach serenity, and thrilling island adventures, all within a premium and romantic setting.

Signature Moments

What you'll remember

01

Strolling through the ancient cobblestone streets of Intramuros, feeling history whisper around you.

02

Kayaking in unison through the majestic Big Lagoon, dwarfed by El Nido's dramatic limestone formations.

03

Unveiling the hidden entrance to El Nido's Secret Lagoon, a moment of intimate discovery.

04

Witnessing the breathtaking sunset paint the skies over Boracay's iconic White Beach, a perfect romantic tableau.

05

Exploring the fascinating natural caves and vibrant marine life of Crystal Cove Island.

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.

7 days to exploreCustomisable in your draft
National Museum of Fine Arts (Manila), ManilaNational Museum of Fine Arts (Manila) · Manila
Photo: Tagaaplaya / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0CC BY-SA 4.0

Day 1 · Manila

The Journey Begins: From Mumbai to Manila's Shores

  1. Morning

    Today marks the commencement of your romantic odyssey. Spend your morning in Mumbai making final preparations for your international journey to Manila, ensuring all travel documents are in order for a smooth departure.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Confirm flight details and baggage allowances for your international flight from Mumbai.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue with any last-minute arrangements in Mumbai during the afternoon. The focus remains on preparing for your evening departure, anticipating the exciting adventures that await you both in the Philippines.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Ensure passports and Philippine entry requirements are readily accessible for your journey.
  3. Evening

    Your evening departure from Mumbai begins an overnight flight to Manila. This extended travel period is designed for an early morning arrival on Day 2, allowing for initial rest upon reaching your destination.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Pack a comfortable eye mask and neck pillow for the overnight flight to Manila.
Meal notes

Dinner on board your flight.

Helpful tips for today
  • Confirm flight details and baggage allowances for your international flight from Mumbai.
  • Ensure passports and Philippine entry requirements are readily accessible for your journey.
  • Pack a comfortable eye mask and neck pillow for the overnight flight to Manila.
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 Historic Heartbeat: Intramuros Unveiled

  1. Morning

    Upon early morning arrival in Manila, transfer to your Makati accommodation for check-in or bag drop. Afterwards, proceed to Intramuros Walled City, a significant historical district, to begin your exploration of Manila's past.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Consider pre-booking a private transfer from Manila airport to your Makati hotel for convenience.
    • Wear comfortable walking shoes for navigating the cobblestone streets of Intramuros Walled City.
  2. Afternoon

    Spend the afternoon within Intramuros Walled City. Visit Fort Santiago, a landmark defensive fortress featuring a museum commemorating José Rizal, open 8:00 AM-11:00 PM. Continue to San Agustin Church and Museum, open 8:00 AM-12:00 PM, 1:00 PM-5:00 PM, for its collection of artifacts.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Arrive at San Agustin Church and Museum before the 12:00 PM closing for the morning session, or plan your visit for the afternoon.
  3. Evening

    Conclude your day within the historic confines of Intramuros Walled City, perhaps enjoying a quiet dinner. Reflect on the rich history and cultural insights gained from Manila's oldest district before returning to your accommodation.

Meal notes

Indulge in a hearty Filipino breakfast at your hotel. For dinner, explore the vibrant culinary scene near your hotel or in Makati.

Helpful tips for today
  • Consider pre-booking a private transfer from Manila airport to your Makati hotel for convenience.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for navigating the cobblestone streets of Intramuros Walled City.
  • Arrive at San Agustin Church and Museum before the 12:00 PM closing for the morning session, or plan your visit for the afternoon.
Big Lagoon, El NidoBig Lagoon · El Nido
Photo: Viator

Day 3 · El Nido

El Nido's Embrace: A Tropical Paradise Beckons

  1. Morning

    Today involves a domestic flight from Manila to El Nido, necessitating an early start for your airport transfer. Upon arrival at El Nido airport, you will be transferred to your chosen resort, preparing for your tropical escape.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Pre-book your domestic flight from Manila to El Nido (ENI) well in advance for better availability and pricing.
    • Arrange for airport transfers in El Nido to your resort upon arrival for a seamless experience.
  2. Afternoon

    The afternoon is allocated for leisure upon settling into your El Nido resort. Relax by the pool or on the beach, allowing yourselves to adjust to the tranquil island pace and stunning surroundings.

  3. Evening

    Enjoy a relaxed evening at your El Nido resort or explore nearby dining options. This allows for a peaceful start to your time in El Nido, anticipating the azure wonders of the coming days.

Meal notes

Lunch upon arrival at El Nido, followed by a romantic dinner at your resort.

Helpful tips for today
  • Pre-book your domestic flight from Manila to El Nido (ENI) well in advance for better availability and pricing.
  • Arrange for airport transfers in El Nido to your resort upon arrival for a seamless experience.
Big Lagoon, El NidoBig Lagoon · El Nido
Photo: Viator

Day 4 · El Nido

Azure Wonders: El Nido's Iconic Lagoons

  1. Morning

    Embark on an island-hopping tour focusing on El Nido's iconic lagoons. Begin with kayaking through the Big Lagoon, navigating its narrow entrance to reveal stunning limestone formations and clear waters, an ideal start to your day.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Book your El Nido island-hopping tour with a reputable agency like Buhay Isla Ecotour - El Nido or El Nido Tours "Sea Quest".
    • Bring waterproof bags for cameras and essentials during the island-hopping tour.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue your island adventure, discovering the Secret Lagoon, which often requires a short swim or wade to access its secluded beauty. A delicious lunch is provided as part of your tour, enjoyed amidst the picturesque island scenery.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Wear aqua shoes or sandals for easier access to lagoons and beaches during the tour.
  3. Evening

    Return to your resort in El Nido after a day of island exploration. Enjoy a romantic dinner, perhaps by the beach, reflecting on the azure wonders and natural beauty experienced in the lagoons.

Meal notes

A packed lunch will be provided during your island tour. For dinner, enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Helpful tips for today
  • Book your El Nido island-hopping tour with a reputable agency like Buhay Isla Ecotour - El Nido or El Nido Tours "Sea Quest".
  • Bring waterproof bags for cameras and essentials during the island-hopping tour.
  • Wear aqua shoes or sandals for easier access to lagoons and beaches during the tour.

Day 5 · Boracay

Boracay's Allure: White Beach Serenity

  1. Morning

    Today involves a multi-leg domestic transfer from El Nido to Boracay, covering approximately 286 km. This journey typically includes a land transfer to El Nido airport, followed by a flight to Caticlan, commencing your travel to Boracay.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Book your El Nido to Caticlan flight and subsequent boat/land transfers in advance, especially during peak season.
    • Confirm the exact transfer arrangements from Caticlan airport to your Boracay accommodation.
  2. Afternoon

    Upon arrival at Caticlan, complete the short boat and land transfer to your Boracay accommodation, often situated near White Beach Boracay. Settle in and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this renowned island paradise.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Keep your transfer vouchers and tickets readily accessible for the various legs of the journey to Boracay.
  3. Evening

    Experience the evening serenity of White Beach Boracay. Stroll along the shore, enjoy the sunset, and find a romantic spot for dinner, soaking in the relaxed ambiance of this beautiful tropical destination.

Meal notes

Lunch upon arrival in Boracay. For dinner, explore the diverse restaurant options along White Beach.

Helpful tips for today
  • Book your El Nido to Caticlan flight and subsequent boat/land transfers in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Confirm the exact transfer arrangements from Caticlan airport to your Boracay accommodation.
  • Keep your transfer vouchers and tickets readily accessible for the various legs of the journey to Boracay.

Day 6 · Boracay

Island Secrets: Puka Shells & Crystal Caves

  1. Morning

    Embark on an island-hopping tour to explore Boracay's northern and eastern shores. Visit Yapak Beach, also known as Puka Shell Beach, renowned for its unique puka shells, offering a different coastal experience.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Book your Boracay island-hopping tour through a local agency like My Boracay Guide for a well-organised experience.
    • Bring a small bag for collecting puka shells at Yapak Beach, if permitted.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue the island-hopping adventure to Crystal Cove Island, featuring natural caves and scenic viewpoints. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the surrounding clear waters, discovering the diverse marine life before returning to White Beach Boracay.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Wear appropriate footwear for exploring the caves on Crystal Cove Island.
  3. Evening

    Spend your final evening in Boracay enjoying the vibrant atmosphere around White Beach Boracay. Indulge in a farewell dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants, reflecting on your romantic Philippine odyssey.

Meal notes

Try some grilled seafood for lunch on the island. A romantic dinner overlooking the beach is highly recommended.

Helpful tips for today
  • Book your Boracay island-hopping tour through a local agency like My Boracay Guide for a well-organised experience.
  • Bring a small bag for collecting puka shells at Yapak Beach, if permitted.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for exploring the caves on Crystal Cove Island.

Day 7 · Cebu

Farewell Philippines: Cherished Memories

After a final breakfast in Boracay, you will undertake the domestic flight transfer from Boracay to Cebu. This journey involves land and boat transfers to Caticlan airport, followed by a flight to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. From Cebu, you will connect to your international departure flight, concluding your Philippines holiday. Ensure all luggage is packed and ready for multiple transfers. The day is primarily dedicated to travel, so plan for sufficient time at each airport, particularly during peak travel months.

Meal notes

A final Filipino breakfast at your hotel.

Day 1 of 7

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.

Fort Santiago, Manila
Photo: Elmer B. Domingo / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Philippines

Fort Santiago

This landmark defensive fortress features a museum commemorating the national hero José Rizal.

Philippines

Intramuros Walled City

Historical Landmark rated 4.7 out of 5 by 3,937 visitors on Google.

Philippines

Boracay

Small island known for its resorts, nightlife & striking, white-sand beaches.

Philippines

White Beach Boracay

Beach of tropical archipelago island ideal for swimming & snorkeling, with diverse lodging & dining.

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.

Manila

Cafe K Manila

Restaurant

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.

A local tip

Dining as a group of at least four makes the menu quite affordable.

Manila

Cafederacion

Coffee Shop

This is a highly rated late-night café known for its quality drinks and welcoming staff, making it a good spot to relax after dinner.

late-night

El Nido

The Philippine Experience

Tourist Attraction

Locals send visitors here to learn to climb a coconut tree, crack coconuts, cook traditional food, and experience an authentic introduction to Filipino life through a well-thought-out tour.

Boracay Diamond Sunset Cruise Day Tours

Manila

Boracay Diamond Sunset Cruise Day Tours

Tours
Boracay Party Cruise, Party Boat, Party Yacht, Sunset Cruise ,Sunset Boat, Sunset Yacht ( Snacks,Fresh Fruits,Unlimited Cocktails and DJ on board) Transport Passes

Manila

Boracay Party Cruise, Party Boat, Party Yacht, Sunset Cruise ,Sunset Boat, Sunset Yacht ( Snacks,Fresh Fruits,Unlimited Cocktails and DJ on board) Transport Passes

Transportation
Boracay: Andy's World Yacht Ultimate Party Cruise | Optional morning cruise with foam party/sunset cruise Transport Passes

Manila

Boracay: Andy's World Yacht Ultimate Party Cruise | Optional morning cruise with foam party/sunset cruise Transport Passes

Transportation
Manila Ocean Park

Manila

Manila Ocean Park

Attraction

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

  • Manila → El NidoFerry crossing · 1755 km · about 53.9 h
  • El Nido → Boracay286 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.

Belmont Hotel Manila near NAIA Terminal 3 MNL

Manila · 2 nights

Belmont Hotel Manila near NAIA Terminal 3 MNL

Suggested stay · subject to availability
Dolarog Beach Resort

El Nido · 2 nights

Dolarog Beach Resort

Suggested stay · subject to availability
Fairways & Bluewater Boracay

Boracay · 1 night

Fairways & Bluewater Boracay

Suggested stay · subject to availability
CSuites at 8 Newtown Mactan Cebu

Cebu · 1 night

CSuites at 8 Newtown Mactan Cebu

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

  • International return economy class flights from Bengaluru to Manila, returning from Malay
  • Accommodation in 4-star and 3-star hotels as specified (6 nights)
  • Breakfasts at all hotels (from Day 2 morning)
  • Airport transfers in Manila (arrival)
  • Intramuros Walled City entrance
  • Fort Santiago entrance
  • El Nido Island Hopping Tour (Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon) with lunch
  • Boracay Island Hopping Tour (Yapak Beach, Crystal Cove Island) with lunch
  • All domestic flights between Manila, El Nido, Boracay, and Cebu
  • Inter-island transfers (e.g., boat transfers for tours)
  • All applicable taxes and service charges

Plan for these extras

  • −Return International Flight from Cebu to Mumbai
  • −Meals not specified (lunches and dinners where not part of activity)
  • −Visa fees and travel insurance
  • −Personal expenses (shopping, tips, laundry, additional activities)

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₹77,600

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

Local know-how
  • 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.
  • Be aware that the Pasig River Esplanade can have a noticeable odor from the river, and pavements at Jones Bridge Esplanade can get muddy after rain.
  • Small Lagoon can get crowded between 10 am and 2 pm, so consider visiting around 2 pm or later for a more peaceful kayaking experience.
  • Expect some items, like ceremonial matcha at Janu Coffee, to be on the pricier side, though reviewers often find them worth the cost.
Everyday costs to consider
  • 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.
  • El Nido: Visitors can expect to pay 350 PHP for two cocktails during happy hour, 120 PHP for a beer, and 350 PHP for entry to Ille Cave, with some coffee items being pricier.
  • 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 Manila, El Nido, Boracay, Cebu?

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

How many days is A Romantic Odyssey: Manila, El Nido & Boracay's Azure Charms?

7 days and 6 nights, across 4 destinations.

Which places does A Romantic Odyssey: Manila, El Nido & Boracay's Azure Charms cover?

Manila, El Nido, Boracay, Cebu. 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?

Belmont Hotel Manila near NAIA Terminal 3 MNL (Manila, 2 nights); Dolarog Beach Resort (El Nido, 2 nights); Fairways & Bluewater Boracay (Boracay, 1 nights); CSuites at 8 Newtown Mactan Cebu (Cebu, 1 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 Manila, El Nido, Boracay, Cebu?

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.; Cafederacion — This is a highly rated late-night café known for its quality drinks and welcoming staff, making it a good spot to relax after dinner.; The Philippine Experience — Locals send visitors here to learn to climb a coconut tree, crack coconuts, cook traditional food, and experience an authentic introduction to Filipino life through a well-thought-out tour.; Janu Coffee and Tea — Go for the ceremonial matcha or strawberry matcha, prepared right in front of you with dedication; it's on the pricier side but reviewers say it's worth every penny..

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

Fort Santiago; Intramuros Walled City; Boracay; White Beach Boracay; Yapak Beach (Puka Shell Beach); Boracay Island Brewing Company.

Who is A Romantic Odyssey: Manila, El Nido & Boracay's Azure Charms best suited to?

Couples yearning for a curated blend of historical charm, pristine beach serenity, and thrilling island adventures, all within a premium and romantic setting.

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 Romantic Odyssey: Manila, El Nido & Boracay's Azure Charms cost?

From ₹77,600 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 6-night itinerary?

International return economy class flights from Bengaluru to Manila, returning from Malay; Accommodation in 4-star and 3-star hotels as specified (6 nights); Breakfasts at all hotels (from Day 2 morning); Airport transfers in Manila (arrival); Intramuros Walled City entrance; Fort Santiago entrance; El Nido Island Hopping Tour (Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon) with lunch; Boracay Island Hopping Tour (Yapak Beach, Crystal Cove Island) with lunch. 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 Romantic Odyssey: Manila, El Nido & Boracay's Azure Charms?

Return International Flight from Cebu to Mumbai; Meals not specified (lunches and dinners where not part of activity); Visa fees and travel insurance; Personal expenses (shopping, tips, laundry, additional activities).

How do I book A Romantic Odyssey: Manila, El Nido & Boracay's Azure Charms?

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 Manila, El Nido, Boracay, Cebu?

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
₹77,600
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₹77,600