Overview
The Philippines is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, drawing UK travellers with white-sand beaches, world-class diving and warm, English-speaking hospitality. Many also fly out to visit the large Filipino community's families. From bustling Manila to the beaches of Palawan and Boracay, comparing fares in one place makes planning simpler.
Best time to fly to the Philippines
The dry season from December to April/May is the most popular, with sunshine ideal for island-hopping. The June–November wet season brings heavier rain and the occasional typhoon, but also lower prices. Fares climb around Christmas and Easter, so travelling in quieter weeks stretches your budget. Check the price charts on this page for the cheapest dates.
Main gateway cities & airports
The main gateway is Manila (MNL), with Cebu (CEB), Clark (CRK) and Davao (DVO) also serving travellers across the islands.
Airlines and routes
Philippine Airlines flies direct from London to Manila in around 14 hours. For connecting options — often better value — Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Turkish Airlines all serve the Philippines via their hubs. Comparing carriers for your exact dates is the surest way to secure the lowest fare.
Popular places to visit in the Philippines
- Palawan (El Nido & Coron): lagoons, limestone karsts and diving.
- Boracay: famous white-sand beaches and clear water.
- Cebu & Bohol: whale sharks, waterfalls and the Chocolate Hills.
- Banaue & Batad: spectacular ancient rice terraces.
- Manila: historic Intramuros and lively city life.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to the Philippines
- Book a few months ahead for the December–April dry season.
- Avoid the Christmas and Easter peaks for lower fares.
- Compare direct flights against one-stop routes via the Gulf or Asia.
- Be flexible with your dates — midweek departures are often cheaper.
Travel essentials
- Visa: UK travellers can usually enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days as tourists.
- Currency: the Philippine peso (PHP).
