Puerto Princesa is Palawan's laid-back capital and a great base for island hopping, underground river visits, and food adventures. Whether you are a solo traveler, traveling with family, or exploring with a group of friends, this itinerary Puerto Princesa guide will help you plan an easy, fun, and memorable trip.

This guide covers how to get there, where to stay, things to do, and a day-by-day plan you can adapt to your pace. If you need to book flights, hotels, or local activities, links are included to help you plan everything in one place.

Most travelers arrive by air into Puerto Princesa International Airport. For the best fares, check out Cheap Flights to Puerto Princesa. The airport is about 15 to 20 minutes from the city center, and tricycles, taxis, or pre-booked transfers can get you to your hotel quickly.

Accommodations in Puerto Princesa range from budget hostels to family-friendly resorts. For a convenient base close to restaurants and tours, browse options for Cheap Hotels in Puerto Princesa. Choose a place with easy access to the main road for tours and airport transfers.

Arrive and get settled. Stroll along Rizal Avenue and the Puerto Princesa Baywalk in the late afternoon for a relaxed introduction to the city. Try local street food like grilled seafood and torta for dinner. If you have energy, check out a live music spot or a casual bar for the evening.

Make the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park a priority. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers. Tours often include a short trek and a boat ride through dramatic limestone caverns. Book a morning slot to avoid crowds and afternoon rain. Many tour operators in the city run combo packages that include transport and park permits.

Spend a full day island hopping around Honda Bay. Popular stops include Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on white-sand beaches. Pack sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a waterproof bag. Boat operators usually provide snorkeling gear, but bringing your own mask and snorkel is handy when visibility is great.

Use this day to savor the city. Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center to see crocodiles and learn about wildlife conservation. Drop by Bakeries for local breads and sweet treats. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs at small markets or supporting local artisans. Finish with a food crawl sampling fresh seafood, kinilaw, and grilled specialties.

If you want alternatives or additions to your itinerary, there are plenty of options. You can go on a mangrove paddle tour, take a firefly-watching cruise at night, or join a guided hike to nearby waterfalls. For a full list of organized experiences and attractions, see Things to Do in Puerto Princesa.

High season is from November to May when the weather is drier. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider shoulder months like October or June, keeping an eye on weather forecasts for rain.

Tricycles are the most common short-distance transport in the city. For day trips, many travelers book tours that include round-trip transfers. If you prefer more flexibility, there are car rental and driver services available in town.

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, light rain gear, and comfortable shoes for walking and short hikes. Power banks are useful for long day tours and island hopping days.

Puerto Princesa is generally safe for tourists. Respect local customs by dressing modestly in community areas and asking before photographing people. Be mindful of environmental rules, especially in protected areas like the underground river and marine sanctuaries.

A four-day trip gives you a satisfying mix of natural wonders and city life. Budget travelers can keep costs low by choosing local eateries and budget hotels, while families and groups may prefer mid-range hotels with added conveniences. Booking tours and tickets in advance often secures better rates and smoother logistics.

Every traveler is different. Solo travelers might prefer flexible day tours and evening meetups, families may want more downtime between activities, and groups can benefit from private boat hire. Adjust the pace based on your interests, whether that means adding more beach days or exploring lesser-known islands off Palawan’s coast.

Puerto Princesa is a welcoming, easygoing destination that balances adventure and relaxation. With cave tours, island beaches, and a friendly food scene, there is something for everyone.

Traveloka makes planning easier by bringing flights, hotels, and activities together in one place. Whether you need to compare Cheap Flights to Puerto Princesa, find comfortable Cheap Hotels in Puerto Princesa, or book curated local experiences like the ones listed under Things to Do in Puerto Princesa, the platform helps you put your trip together quickly and confidently. Use this itinerary Puerto Princesa as a starting point, and let Traveloka help you turn it into the trip you want.