The Philippines is a diverse country known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to help you plan your adventure which includes average costs from fellow travelers, hotel rates, food prices, entertainment and sightseeing costs, and transportation, too. It's everything you need to budget wisely and still have an unforgettable time.
How much does it cost to travel to the Philippines?
You should plan to spend around $74 (₱4,337) per day on your vacation in the Philippines. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $25 (₱1,444) on meals
- $21 (₱1,210) on local transportation
- $49 (₱2,840) on hotels
A one week trip to the Philippines for two people costs, on average, $1,039 (₱60,718). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$519
₱30,359
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,039
₱60,718
-
One Month
Per person
$2,226
₱130,110
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,039
₱60,718
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,077
₱121,436
-
One Month
For a couple
$4,452
₱260,220
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to the Philippines cost?
A one week trip to the Philippines usually costs around $519 (₱30,359) for one person and $1,039 (₱60,718) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to the Philippines on average costs around $1,039 (₱60,718) for one person and $2,077 (₱121,436) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in the Philippines will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to the Philippines on average costs around $2,226 (₱130,110) for one person and $4,452 (₱260,220) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is the Philippines expensive to visit?
The Philippines is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.
Within Asia, the Philippines is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Cambodia or China.
With a wide selection of accommodation and activities, the Philippines makes it easy for any traveler to find something that fits their budget. You can find budget-friendly hostels in Manila, Cebu, and El Nido, while luxury hotels cater to those seeking opulence, with mid-range hotels also available for families and couples.
the Philippines can cost as much as you want, but eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can save you money.
On average, budget travelers spend $29 (₱1,692) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $75 (₱4,337) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $196 (₱11,272) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to the Philippines.
For more details, see Is the Philippines Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to the Philippines?
The average Philippines trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Philippines travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to the Philippines cost?
the Philippines on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$9.29
(₱543)
|
$24
(₱1,420)
|
$66
(₱3,852)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$7.73
(₱452)
|
$21
(₱1,210)
|
$59
(₱3,444)
|
|
Food 2
|
$10
(₱590)
|
$25
(₱1,444)
|
$58
(₱3,371)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$5.59
(₱327)
|
$14
(₱810)
|
$33
(₱1,951)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-6
(₱123-369)
|
$5-16
(₱314-941)
|
$14-41
(₱809-2,426)
|
Cebu Island, Philippines
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit the Philippines on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
Many people might hear that you can explore the Philippines for just $29 a day, but if you're not ready to sacrifice some comforts, be prepared to spend quite a bit more.
Backpackers often manage to stick to this tight budget, but it usually means sleeping in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest eateries or grabbing fast food, relying on public transport or walking everywhere, and limiting themselves to free attractions.
Fortunately, the Philippines has a large number of hostels. You'll find the greatest concentration in Manila, Cebu, and El Nido.
So, are you average?
Mid-range hotels, well-known restaurants, and visits to museums and attractions with entry fees are common choices for families or couples traveling on vacation. Most travelers will want to visit the major sights, and landmarks. Most of these activities cost money, after all, so it's wise to plan for a budget closer to $75 per person each day.
In the Philippines, you'll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to suit your needs. If you're traveling with a partner, friends, or your kids, then hotel costs will be divided, making it easier on your budget. Family-friendly destinations like Manila, Baguio City, and Panglao offer hotels and restaurants with options tailored for kids. Some good places to stay are The Bayleaf Intramuros in Manila or El Cielito Inn - Baguio in Baguio City. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for the Philippines here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
For those seeking an all-inclusive experience with top-tier service, be prepared for a daily price around $196. Staying in luxury hotels, dining at fine restaurants, indulging in high-end excursions, and hiring private drivers will push you into the "luxury" bracket. You'll find yourself vacationing among the elite in destinations like Puerto Princesa and Manila. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Best of the Philippines - 14 days - offered by On The Go Tours.
Accommodation Budget in the Philippines
The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in the Philippines can be very surprising. Some destinations have much higher price tags than others, and even within the same areas you can find a big difference between the budget-friendly and higher-end hotels. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in the Philippines for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $49 (₱2,840). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $24 (₱1,420) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in the Philippines? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in the Philippines
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $21 (₱1,210) per person, per day, on local transportation in the Philippines. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in the Philippines is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$21
₱1,210
Food Budget in the Philippines
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in the Philippines can vary significantly, the average cost of food in the Philippines is $25 (₱1,444) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$25
₱1,444
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in the Philippines is about $25 (₱1444) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $10 to $59 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in the Philippines are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $8
- Lunch: $4 to $13
- Dinner: $9 to $20
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
Filipino food is heavily influenced by many different cultures including Chinese, Malay, Spanish, European and American cuisines. It's probably the least spicy cuisine in all of Southeast Asia but it still has a strong flavor as it is typically seasoned with garlic, onions and ginger. Many of the dishes cook for long periods of time so the flavors are well integrated. Some examples are listed below, but for more details check out this guide to Filipino food on our blog.
Sinangag: This is a fried garlic rice dish made with dried shrimp and mixed with sausage or hot dogs. It's ubiquitous around the Philippines and it's one of the most popular dishes in restaurants around the country.
Chicharron: These are salted and deep fried pork rinds. They're available at many balut vendors and are often served with vinegar, chillis, or a liver sauce. Another variation of the dish is made with deep fried pig intestines.
Hamonado: This is a honey cured meat dish that is served on special occasions. It's most often made with pork and honey or pineapple juice is used to sweeten it. It's most commonly served during the Christmas or New Years holidays and is a favorite around the country.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
While numerous hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, some might add it as an additional fee. The quality and pricing of breakfast can fluctuate based on the hotel. Knowing this information in advance can guide your decision on whether to indulge in a hotel buffet or opt for a cheaper bakery or café nearby.
Carrying a water bottle instead of buying drinks can help you save money while also being good for the environment.
If a tour is on your agenda, be sure to confirm which meals are covered beforehand. Paying for some food out of pocket can really add to your travel expenses.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in the Philippines. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Makati Street Food tour Experience with Mari for $73 details
- Private Filipino Cooking Class in the Heart of Manila,Makati City for $110 details
- Manila Food Tour Experience with Venus for $70 details
- Authentic Manila Chinatown Food Tour Exploration for $75 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in the Philippines
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in the Philippines typically cost an average of $14 (₱810) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$14
₱810
A nice way to explore destinations in the Philippines is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Boracay Sunset Cruise with Party DJ & Unlimited Food and Drinks for $70 details
- Immerse in Culture: Villa Escudero Coconut Plantation Experience for $150 details
- Bohol Chocolate hills and Nature tour for $110 details
- Makati Street Food Experience with V for $65 details
Nightlife Budget in the Philippines
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $11 (₱627) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in the Philippines per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$11
₱627
Nightlife is often a highlight, but cutting back on alcohol can help you stay within your travel budget.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in the Philippines. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Panglao Pub Crawl for $18 details
- Manila Ultimate Nightlife Pub Crawl for $30 details
- ⭐ Makati Bar Hopping and Pub Crawl Tour with Venus ⭐ for $35 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Sep 20, 2024
Traveling in the Philippines
Dining on crab in Palawan, Philippines
The Philippines is an island nation in Southeast Asia, and it includes over 7,000 islands. It has a beautiful coastline and friendly people, and, because of Spanish colonization, is considered to be Asia's largest Catholic country. The country is quite diverse with over one hundred different ethnic groups, a large international influence, and a Spanish/Latin twist. It makes for a very interesting take on Asian culture, combined with a beautiful, tropical destination. It has some great opportunities for scuba diving, wildlife spotting, and festival viewing. There are also countless opportunities to enjoy adventure sports while you're in the country. Whatever your interest, the Philippines likely has an activity or attraction that appeals to you.
The climate in the Philippines is tropical and the hottest months are between March and May. In June the rains start and this lasts through October when strong typhoons are possible. The coolest months are between November and February. Probably the best time to visit is between the middle of January and the end of February when the weather is at its coolest and the area is dry. Whenever you decide to visit the Philippines you can expect sudden weather changes. As an island nation the weather can be highly unpredictable so come prepared for anything.
The Philippines are divided into three major island groups. Luzon is the northernmost part of the country and is the economic and political center. It's also where you will find the country's capital city of Manila. The country's best beaches are on the middle islands, known as Visayas. This is the area with the richest biodiversity and the best wildlife. To the south is the Mindanao. This is where you find most of the indigenous culture in the Philippines.
The Philippines is a cheap travel destination, even by Southeast Asian standards. Some hotels may be more expensive than you would expect, but as a whole it is a very affordable travel destination. You may decide to take some domestic flights to explore the area. These are reasonably priced but there are often more affordable alternatives if you do some research. Food in the Philippines is very cheap, particularly if you dine at local establishments. Street food is always an affordable option as well.
At A Glance
- If you're interested in Filipino culture and history head to the Banaue area. There are rice terraces that have existed for over 2000 years. It's a very scenic area that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and shouldn't be missed if you're in the area.
- Because the Philippines is made of the many different islands you'll likely find yourself taking several different flights while you're in the country (compare prices here). Some of the most popular and affordable airlines include Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Airphil Express. Flights are usually reasonable in price but do increase around major holidays or during peak travel times. Most flights are economy class only.
- If you decide to take a trip on the Bicol Express Train you can decide between four different classes. These include the executive sleeper class which has private, air conditioned cabins with one bed; the family sleeper class which includes four beds in an air conditioned cabin; the deluxe class which offers reclining chairs in air conditioned cabins; and the economy class which includes benches and fans for ventilation.
- There are ferries that connect many of the islands. While this is a cheap form of transportation it is also somewhat unsafe. Use commonsense when you board a ferry. If the boat seems to be over capacity, do not get on it. Also make sure you check the weather reports prior to taking a ferry as some captains sail even in rough waters. Generally speaking, ferries are not safer than flying.
- Don't overlook the historic sights while you're in the Philippines. The natural beauty is perhaps the most impressive part of the country, but there are still some excellent museums and cultural areas that are well worth a visit.
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Top Tourist Attractions
Tamaraw Falls: This is a popular thirty meter high waterfall with nearby swimming pools. It's about 14 kilometers from Puerto Galera and is a crowded destination on weekends, particularly on Sundays when admission is free. If you're there during the week the crowds will be much less. Bring a packed picnic lunch and there are facilities where you can enjoy your meal while looking out over the waterfall.
Hundred Islands National Park: Hundred Islands National Park is a small but lovely national park just off the Alaminos coast. It is made up of over one hundred islands, but only three of them have been developed for tourists.
Pagudpud: Pagudpud is probably one of the most popular tourist beaches in the Philippines. It has a beautiful white sand beach and blue water perfect for swimming. It's relatively secluded but still conveniently located and is accessible by public transportation.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.