If you only have a week in the Philippines, the Palawan-versus-Cebu debate is the first decision to make. Both are spectacular, but they reward different kinds of traveller.
Palawan: lagoons and limestone
El Nido and Coron are the postcard Philippines — towering karst cliffs, hidden lagoons and water so clear the bangka looks like it is floating on air. Tours here follow a lettered circuit (A, B, C and D in El Nido), each mixing lagoons, snorkel stops and a beach lunch.
- Best for: first-timers who want the classic scenery, snorkelling and slow beach days.
- Watch out for: long transfers between Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Coron — flying between them saves a full day.
Cebu: waterfalls and sardines
Cebu packs more variety into shorter hops. Kawasan Falls canyoneering, the Moalboal sardine run and whale sharks in Oslob are all within day-trip distance, and the island is a natural hub for ferries onward to Bohol.
- Best for: active travellers who want canyons, reefs and city comforts in one trip.
- Watch out for: Oslob whale shark tours start at dawn — stay overnight nearby or expect a 3 AM pickup.
The verdict
Choose Palawan for dramatic scenery and a slower rhythm; choose Cebu for variety and easier connections. With ten days, do both — fly into Cebu and out of Puerto Princesa so you never backtrack.