Where to Stay

Whether you're a budget backpacker, a beachfront luxury-seeker, or just want a cozy spot with good Wi-Fi and better views, the Philippines has a place for you. From city stays in Manila to remote island bungalows in Palawan, here’s the lowdown on where to sleep, chill, and maybe stay longer than you planned.

🏝 Island or City? Know Your Base

The Philippines is an island country—literally over 7,000 islands—so where you stay totally depends on your vibe. Here’s how it breaks down:

✈️ Manila or Cebu (Layover or First Timer)

• Stay near Makati (Manila) or IT Park (Cebu) if you want access to malls, nightlife, and transport.

• These are your launch pads for flights and ferries elsewhere.

🏖 Palawan (El Nido or Coron)

• Beach bungalows, boutique resorts, and eco-lodges with insane views.

• Booking ahead is smart—especially during dry season (Nov–May).

🌋 Bohol, Siargao, Camiguin

• For that laid-back beach-meets-nature energy. Choose between beachfront hostels, surf shacks, or quiet garden stays.

🏙 Davao, Bacolod, Iloilo

• More low-key cities with food scenes and fewer crowds. Great for long-stay travelers or digital nomads.

💸 Accommodation by Budget

💰 Budget Travelers / Backpackers

• 🛏️ Dorms or guesthouses from $6–$15 a night

• Hostels are often social and great for tours (especially in Siargao, Cebu, and Palawan)

• Top picks:

  • Mad Monkey (multiple locations) – party vibes

  • Spin Hostel (El Nido) – clean, social, and central

  • Paglaom Hostel (Siargao) – surf-friendly with great community

💵 Mid-Range Travelers

• 🛏️ Boutique hotels, private rooms, or beachfront cottages ($25–$80 per night)

• Often include breakfast and good locations

• Try:

  • The Funny Lion (Coron) – eco-chic jungle vibes

  • Isla Cabana (Siargao) – beachfront bungalows

  • Hotel Luna (Vigan) – historic charm in a walkable heritage town

💎 Luxury Travelers

• 🏝️ Private island resorts, luxury eco-lodges, or 5-star hotels ($100+)

• You’ll find stunning properties in Palawan, Boracay, and even Manila

• Faves:

  • Amanpulo (Palawan) – secluded island paradise

  • Shangri-La Boracay – cliffside luxury with a private beach

  • Okada Manila – ultra-glam casino resort in the city

🧳 Traveler Tips

• Book early during Holy Week, Christmas, and summer (March–May).

• Check Wi-Fi reviews if you're working remotely—signal strength varies by island.

• Ask about generators in island towns—power outages are common.

• Use Agoda or Booking.com for deals, but check directly with the hotel for promos or free upgrades.

• Local homestays are gold—especially in rural areas like Banaue, Sagada, or small island communities.