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Cebu Travel Guide: What to See, Do, Costs and How to Get Around

Cebu is the perfect introduction to the Philippines and a great starting point for your backpacking adventure. It is considered as one of the most visited, largest and most diverse locations in the Philippines. Cebu has a rich cultural heritage, a perfect mix of beautiful scenery, breathtaking attractions, welcoming people and cheap accommodation. It is also really close to Bohol, which is another island that you can visit while on holiday in the Philippines. (Where to stay in Cebu? Check these affordable hotels)

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Related Read: How to Plan Your Trip to the Philippines: The Best Guide

Backpacking Cebu has been one of the must-do-things when traveling in this Central Visayas part of the Philippines. I am going to share a  Cebu travel guide and some useful tips on how to travel Cebu on a budget to help you plan your backpacking trip in this beautiful province of the Philippines.

How to Get to Cebu

Whether you come by air or by sea, there a lot of options to choose from. Cebu is well connected with Manila and other islands surrounding the archipelago. It also has an international airport which has flights from nearby Asian countries. The easiest way is to book a flight. There are several domestic and international airlines flying in and out from Mactan International Airport and you can check the best airfare comparison sites to book your flights through here.

Read: The Best Ways to Get from Cebu to Bohol

You can also check out fast and slow ferries leaving from other provinces to Cebu namely, Ocean Jet, 2go (SupetCat), Lite Ferries, Lite Shipping and Cokaliong shipping. You can purchase tickets in advance directly from the company websites, travel agencies or through third-party-providers like Klook and Bookaway . There is also an alternative way, just head to the ferry terminal or ticket outlets and get your tickets there but there’s no guarantee for ticket availability.

Read: The Best Ways to Get from Cebu to Siargao

When is the b est time to visit Cebu

Climate varies throughout the Philippines, you can visit all year round! Cebu has a tropical climate and anywhere between January to May is normally considered a good time to visit. Also considered as the rainy season is from June-August so there might be some ferry/flight cancellations if there’s a typhoon coming. September- December is peak season so this time you will likely find more crowds and inflated prices everywhere in Cebu.

Related Read: Ultimate Guide to Mactan Cebu International Airport

Planning a trip to the Philippines? Have any questions? Join our  Philippine Travel Planning Facebook group  here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

How to Get Around Cebu

Cebu is one of the Philippines’ major tourist destinations. Whether for leisure, recreation or business. Its booming economy as well as its world-class tourist spots have certainly attracted visitors from other parts of the country and abroad.

You can book a taxi or rent a car if you want to explore the city at your own pace. Also, Grab is very popular in Cebu because it’s easier and convenient to use when traveling. But if you are on a tight budget, I’ll recommend trying the local transportation which is the “jeepney” s o that you can experience being a local commuter.

While it is quite possible to explore the major tourist attractions of Cebu in one day I decided to write some of the highlights of my travels in the province of Cebu. Here is a simple guide on how to explore Cebu on a cheap budget.

Best Things to Do in Cebu Philippines

Visit mactan shrine.

A historical and well-preserved spot of history. The shrine was constructed on the theatrical site where the subsequent battle on April 17, 1521, between the Spaniards and Lapu-Lapu supposedly took place. It is located northeast of the Island along National Highway, Punta Engano in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. This is also a very nice place to visit because the grounds are well kept and you can have a great seafood meal in one of several fish restaurants next to the shrine. I suggest you buy your “pasalubong” ( souvenirs) here because they also offer nice yet cheap items and you could still haggle the price.

Admission is free and opening hours is from 9am – 6pm.

How to get to Mactan Shrine?

• From Mactan International Airport

There are two options you can choose from. You can either hire a taxi that will take you to Mactan Shrine or you can directly go to the second floor of Mactan International Airport, ride a white cab to Mactan Marina Mall. In front of the mall, take the jeepney bound for Punta Engano and tell the driver to drop you off at Mactan Shrine.

• From Cebu City

You can ride a jeepney that is bound to Lapu-Lapu City. Better check the signage for Punta Engaño. The fare would be approximately Php 12.00 – Php 15.00 .

• From SM via V-Hire

You can catch V-Hire bod for Mactan. Rates are fixed which aren’t expensive and convenient too.

Visit Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino de Cebu

Sto. Nino church is one of the holiest grounds in Cebu City for devout Catholic Filipinos. Famous for representing the birth and growth of Christianity in the Philippines. It is also known to be the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the country. People from all over the world travel just to get a glimpse of this historical and remarkable landmark.

I was completely in awe of the tourists and locals who come for their devotion and thanksgiving to the holy child. I’ve visited Basilica Minore many times and it is worth it. You can just stop by to utter your prayers or check the schedule and attend the mass. You can just also get in line and visit the Sr. Sto. Niño image at the back of Basilica. If you want to buy some religious souvenirs, vendors are on standby along the street right outside the Basilica’s perimeter.

How to get to Basilica del Sto Nino?

Price of admission is free and opening hours start from 5 am to 9 pm. Its location is in Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City.

Check Out Magellan’s Cross

Magellan’s Cross is just around the corner of the Basilica so you have to check it out after your Santo Nino visit. It is another landmark in Cebu. I made a brief visit to the cross, which has an interesting history. I was surprised to know that the original cross is encased in a timber cross to protect it. It is housed in a small building that is quite interesting and it’s worthy of 5 to 10 minutes of a stop.

It is better to take pictures from outside the structure. If it’s your first time traveling in this touristy area don’t forget to visit the Fortuna shop just beside the Basilica. They have great and delicious food. You can also buy a key chain souvenir there. You can also find ladies who are wearing a long red skirt, which will offer to pray for you and your family, pay them 100 pesos and it goes with free candles. You can bring it with you or leave it under the cross.

How to get to Magellan’s Cross?

Admission is free and opening hours is from 8 am – 6 pm and it is located along P. Burgos Street, Cebu City. You can get there easily from across the Basilica.

Cebu Happy World Museum (Miracle Art and 3D Paintings)

An extraordinary museum where your own creativity comes out. Located on the Island of Cordova, barangay Gabi, a one of kind museum with interactive art, optical illusion exhibit and three-dimensional paintings. The art exhibits will change your imagination. It was our first time with my sister trying a trick art museum and it was fun!

Cordova is quite far from Cebu City but the journey going there was interesting. Good thing we didn’t get lost. If you are coming from Cebu mainland the traffic to Lapu-Lapu City might be a put off. But once you get inside the  Happy World Museum , you will understand why tourists and locals make an effort to travel and visit this place. A great place to get some quality social media content because it will surely bring out the energetic, cheerful and imaginative child in you. You can do or create your interpretation and effects with the photos.

The place is amazing and brought so much joy to us during our visit. The building looks interesting with a pool in front. It has a wide garden and food stall which sells Korean desserts. The museum is for all ages to visit… both adults and children will have fun trying different actions in different variety of themes. Which includes sea creatures, biblical scenes, and historical events and can enjoy the ride with the unicorns. It was worth it and fun experience to explore this 3D Museum.

Admission price is ₱350 per person (19 y/o & above) and ₱250 per person (4 to 18 y/o), while 0-3 y/o is FREE. For Senior Citizen & PWD , it’s ₱250 per person. Opening hours is from 9 AM – 8:00 PM and is located at Lot 2-A-3, Brgy. Gabi, Cordova, 6007, Cebu, Philippines

How to get to Cebu Happy World Museum?

This is the cheapest way and also takes the longest. You can take a jeepney with the sign bound for Hi-Way from SM. Once you reach the Hi-Way, Mandaue take another jeepney with the signboard Tamiya or Opon. Tell the driver to drop you off at MEPZ where there is another jeepney bound for Cordova, then tell the driver to drop you at the Cordova Municipal Hall and then take a tricycle to the Cebu Happy World Museum.

Go directly to SM V-Hire Terminal and ride any van bound for Cordova. Once you reach the V-hire terminal in Cordova, take a tricycle going to the Cebu Happy World Museum.

• By Ferry Boat

You can take a ferry boat from Pier 3 going to Opon (Lapu-Lapu City). When you reach the port of Opon, you can walk to the place where many jeepneys are going to Cordova and stop at the Municipal Hall. From there you can take a tricycle to Cebu Happy World Museum.

• By Grab Taxi

This option is very and convenient to choose from. But it could be pricier than the other options I’ve mentioned. All you have to do is just pin your location to Cordova “Cebu Happy World Museum”.

• By Personal Car/Vehicle

While this is also the most convenient way of getting to the Cebu Happy World Museum, it is also rather costly because you have to pay much more for your fuel. If you are not familiar with the place you can just use Google Maps or Using Waze app to set your destination.

Dine-in at Cebu’s Best – Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant

As a popular destination of the Philippines, Cebu offers a wide array of food choices from local to international cuisines. One of these is the famous Lantaw Native Restaurant. It has branches in Cordova (Mactan Island), in Tops- Busay, and SRP-Cebu. We choose to dine-in at Cordova after visiting the Cebu Happy World Museum. It’s a bit far from the city center but it is worth the trip. The place has a great view and amazing ambiance, especially at night. It is very refreshing because of its floating restaurant overlooking Mactan Island and Cebu City. Food was beyond what I expected at an affordable price. They serve the best seafood dishes in Cebu. Worth the visit, I would recommend this to all travelers going to Cebu.

Lantaw Floating Native restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday from 10 AM to 10 PM. It is located at Day-as Cordova, Mactan Cebu, Philippines

How to get to Cebu Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant?

From Cebu Happy World Museum you can take a “tricked” going to Day-as port fare is P50. If you are in Mactan Island you just have to ride a jeepney with signage going to Opon Terminal. At the terminal, you will transfer to another jeepney going to Cordova and tell the driver to drop you off at the Crossing of Cordova. While at the crossing you can see and take the “trisikads” bound for Day-as Port. Or you can directly book a Grab Taxi just pin the location and enter the name of the place.

See the Amazing View of Tops Look Out-Busay , Cebu City

The Tops experience is not to be missed! It’s a must visit attraction if you visit Cebu because it offers a panoramic view of the whole city and Mactan Island. It promises a lot of perfect photo opportunities once you are there. Going there is like a little Baguio route but it is definitely worth the visit. The view is magnificent during the night where you can see the city lit up in thousands of little bright lights. The entrance is only P100 but you can stay as long as you want. There are many restaurants and no corkage fee so you can bring your own drinks too.

There is also a nice cove you can stay for more privacy. As a traveler, I’d recommend visiting the lookout. Opening hours of Tops Look-out Busay is from 9 AM to 9 PM and it is located at Brgy. Busay, Cebu Trans central highway.

How to get to Tops Look Out-Busay?

The easiest way to get up to Tops is certainly by private car. Just search for ‘Top of Cebu’ or ‘Tops Lookout’ in Cebu Trans central Highway via Waze or Google Maps.

Hiring a taxi cab is possible but that can be hefty. Most of them won’t give you a metered reading system – hence, they’ll be offering you an estimated fare in going there.

• By Motorbike

Take a jeepney to Lahug along Osmena Boulevard and ask to be dropped off at the J.Y Square Mall in Lahug. Hire a habal-habal driver (Motorcycle for hire) near JY Square Mall in Lahug, and inform him to drop you off at the said restaurant or Tops Lookout.

• By Shuttle Bus

For more convenient but pricier option, there is also a shuttle vehicle for only P 300/person round trip. You can check and search on the internet for Cebu Shuttle Service.

Wander the ” Little Amsterdam of Cebu” – Sirao Flower Garden

I love flowers and nature and those are the things that attracted me to visit this place. This was a great find up in the mountains. The Little Amsterdam of Cebu is an 8,000-sq-meter piece of uphill land with 2 separate gardens. One is the Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site (PGCS) with a swimming pool, the other is the original Sirao Flower Garden located just beside the PGCS. This flower garden is really picturesque! Not only are there flowers beautiful, but the scenery takes your breath away.

There are so many Instagram-worthy places to take photos with your friends or family. You can blend and commune with nature while being on the top of a hill, oversee the northwestern part of Cebu and enjoy a picnic with friends and family. A fun place to visit! It can get crowded and is muddy in some places, but it is cheap and easy to wait in line for the fun areas to pose on or around.

The price for admission is ₱100 per head, opening hours is from 6 AM to 7 PM and it is located atBrgy. Busay, Cebu City.

How to get to “Little Amsterdam of Cebu” – Sirao Flower Garden?

From J.Y. Square Mall, take a motorbike (habal-habal) that will take you directly to Sirao Flower Farm for ₱400 roundtrip, good for 2 persons already. The driver may ask you for additional waiting fee of ₱100-200 per hour depending on your haggling skill.

The ride will take 30-45 minutes to get there. Another option is by taking a van from the Ayala Cebu PUV Terminal, you can ride a v-hire going to Sirao for ₱50 /head (one-way). Ask the driver to drop you off near Sirao Flower Garden. From there, ride a motorbike (habal-habal) going to the flower garden, the fare is ~₱20-30 /head.

Feel like a  Goddess at Cebu’s Grand Taj Mahal – Temple of Leah

Known to be the “Temple of Love” that was built as a grand gesture of undying love from a husband to his late wife. The shrine holding the memory and treasures of Leah Albino-Adarna, the late wife of Teodorico Soriano Adarna. The two are grandparents of the famous Filipina actress Ellen Adarna. The structure is very impressive because it’s built with quality and real materials that are not cheap looking or fragile. You can appreciate how the whole structure which really looks like a temple.

This temple will really give you an almost European city feel. A Greek methodology-inspired 7-story mansion with gigantic lions lying on each side of the stairs that will guide you to the doorstep of another jaw-dropping view. One of the most-visited places for tourists in Cebu. It offers a spectacular view overlooking Cebu City. It is really worth visiting along with Tops and Sirao Flower Farm for the complete Busay Mountain Tour.

The entrance fee for Cebu’s Temple of Leah is ₱50 per person and opening hours is from 6 AM to 11PM. It is located at Roosevelt St., Busay, Cebu City.

How to get to Cebu’s Grand Taj Mahal – Temple of Leah?

Charter a motorbike ( habal-habal ) at Lahug / JY Mall straight to Temple of Leah for P150 per motorcycle, good for 2 persons, or a taxi or grab from the downtown. The best time to go here is in the morning, during the opening time to avoid the crowd. The cheapest way to get here is via public transport. You may catch a jeepney (04D, 04I or 04H bound for Lahug-Busay) from downtown Cebu City. The fare is not more than P20 per person, tell the driver to drop you off at the street to Temple Leah and walk for 5 minutes to the site.

Car is the best option if you want to have peace of mind and not worry about your way back home. There is parking space is available. Just navigate via Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Temple of Leah”.

Pilgrimage to Simala Shrine of Sibonga ” The Miraculous Castle Church”

Pilgrimages or visiting religious places is one of the most important aspects that most Filipino Catholics have. This aspect keeps their faith alive and keeps them going despite all the challenges in life. After visiting the city’s attractions me and my sister directly head to the bus terminal bound for Sibonga, Cebu to visit and offer prayers of the miraculous Simala Shrine. It is one of the well-known religious places in the Philippines where thousands of devotees visit the shrine every week. It was built by Marian Monks who serve as the guardian of this sacred place.

This is the much-known place where Mother Mary had an apparition to one of the locals and shredding of tears of the statue of Mama Mary. The church is very popular among believers/devotees of Mama Mary and the place is amazing and you can have a spectacular spiritual experience. Everyone should be in barefoot, no shorts and sleeveless shirts/blouse. Petitions and intentions could be written and dropped at designated places. Souvenir religious items and colored candles with meanings are available and could be lighted to express your intentions.

The opening of Simala Shrine of Sibonga starts at 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM. The  location is  at Simala-Lindogon Church Sibonga 6020 Cebu Philippines.

How to get to Simala Shrine of Sibonga from Cebu?

From Cebu city, go directly to the South Bus Terminal near “E-mall” /Elizabeth Mall.  Ride a Ceres going to Sibonga. Just tell the driver to drop you off at the road that will lead you to Simala Church. Fare is around P 80 – P100 and travel time is about 2 hours. In case you like to ride v-hire. The V-hire terminal is located at Kamagayan – Junquera Street, near the University of San Carlos (USC). Fare is around P 120.

Hike the Breathtaking Osmeña Peak of Dalaguete

Osmeña peak is considered the highest mountain in which you can get stunning 360-degree views of Cebu. With this famous viewpoint, you can see cool rock formations. The lovely view of Osmeña peak slowly changes colors at the time of the day. When the clouds shroud it, it looks quite awe-inspiring, if not mystical, and takes you to another world. This mountain is an affordable outdoor destination whenever you’re in Cebu City.

You could go there for a day hike and spend less than a thousand pesos. The hike was a little tiresome but truly worth it, with its great panoramic view with the nearby islands, breathtaking indeed. Locals with some small businesses are present too. Surrounded by pure greenery. The view from the top is amazing. Worth the effort trekking about 20-25 minutes from the jumping-off point. You can get a guide which actually will carry your bags to the top with a tip.

I suggest a morning trek because it helps you get the photos you like since this is a popular tourist location and it is usually crowded. Some camp here overnight, just make sure that you have the proper outfit which will help you resist the very cold weather up there. If you choose the other way around, the afternoon trek, you might be able to see a clearer view but the weather will be hot or rainy.

Entrance fee for the Osmena Peak is ₱30 per head and is open 24 hours. The location is at Mantalongon, Dalaguete 6022, Philippines.

How to get to Osmena Peak of Dalaguete from Cebu?

From the South Bus terminal, ride a bus bound for Oslob or Bato. The fare is around P170 and travel time is approximately 3 hours. Tell the driver to drop you off at the Dalaguete junction for Osmena Peak. 7Eleven and Julie’s Bakeshop fronting each other is the landmark. Then take a motorcycle (habal-habal) going to Osmena Peak trail head. Fare is P100/person one way. If you are alone, you have to pay for two (P200 per way). Travel time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Explore the Tropical Oasis of Badian, Kawasan Falls

Kawasan falls is one of the famous waterfalls in the Philippines. These waterfalls truly are beautiful, crystal clear freshwater in a picturesque setting. The falls have become an Instagram hotspot as it’s possible to swim in the stunning turquoise waters. You can also hike for about 20 to 30 minutes to the actual location of the falls. I would recommend bringing water and some funds for snacks and drinks along the way. The pristine nature and the cool water in the face of 96-degree temperatures make it a lovely refreshing day.

For those who are more adventurous, one of the most popular ways to reach Kawasan falls is on a canyoneering tour. One could also embark on a bamboo raft and go for a ride under the waterfall and at the same time receive a tremendous neck massage by the pouring water. To avoid the crowds, you have to be there early. Just know that it will be packed with people and that it will be loud, but at the same time very beautiful and that you’re going to have lots of fun!

Entrance fee for Badian Kawasan Falls is P40 for foreigners and P20 for locals and it’s open for 24 hours. The location is at Badian, 6031 Cebu, Philippines.

How to get to Badian Kawasan Falls from Cebu?

From Cebu City to Kawasan Falls, head directly to South Bus Terminal. You can take all of the buses going to Bato (via Barili). You must take the bus to Bato via Barili because the other bus from Cebu to Bato is via Oslob and it stops instead on the east side. The bus journey takes about 3 hours but can vary depending on how much traffic there is. Fare starts at P110 – P150 depending on the type of bus you want to ride. Tell the driver to drop you off at Kawasan Falls in Badian. Upon arrival, start to trek for 10 -15 minutes from the main road in Barangay Matutinao.

From Oslob to Badian Kawasan Falls, the cheapest way is going by bus to Bato and then change onto a bus for Badian. This should take around 2 hours and cost 100 pesos.

Another option is by taking a motorbike/trike or multicab to Bato and transfer to a bus to Cebu via Barili. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, and the total price is around 100 pesos. Get off at Kawasan Fall in Badian, trek for 10-15 minutes from the main road and just follow the trail of the river until you arrived at your destination.

From Osmena Peak to Badian Kawasan Falls, you have 2 options to choose from. Either you trek for at least four hours with a guide or you can hop on a motorbike and you can pay around P 300-500 depending on negotiating the driver.

Swim with the Gentle Giants- Whale Sharks in Oslob

NOTE: This is an activity that you need to think first before actually doing because of the nature of how the whale sharks have become domesticated and treated. You can read more about the reasons not to visit Oslob and swim with the whale sharks. 

Swimming in the vicinity of the whale sharks in Oslob is a great experience. This is the place to go if you like to swim or dive into the world’s biggest mammal. There are no words to describe the beauty and grandness of Whale Sharks so up close and personal. Note that this is a very popular activity so as expected there are hundreds of people going at all times. The whale sharks in Cebu are somewhat domesticated being that they decided to never leave the shores of this small fishing village. There are plenty of whale sharks around in the morning so you must visit early morning. They are kept in the area and lured by operators feeding them on boats.

Before heading to the boats, you will be given a brief where the rules and policies are explained. The whale sharks could be seen very clearly by those who jumped into the water and by those who stayed on the boat. For additional information, feeding of the whale sharks is only until 12 in the afternoons so schedule your transport accordingly. You have to maintain a 3 to 4 feet distance between the sharks and sunblock is not allowed along with touching the whale sharks.

You can rent GoPro cameras on-site for 550 Php and they download straight to your phone on return. You can also buy the smartphone waterproof sleeves to use underwater. There are good restaurants in the area so you can eat breakfast or take a snack when you get back from the shark swim. There are also plenty of local shops to get water, souvenirs, t-shirts, etc.

Price : Swimming with the whale sharks

– P 200 per pax for Local Guest

– P 500 per pax for Foreign Guest

Inclusive use of snorkeling gears

Opening Hours : 6:00 am- 12:30 pm

Location: Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Oslob, 6023 Cebu, Philippines

How to get to Oslob?

From the City, go directly to the South Bus Terminal and hop-in to a Ceres bus going to Bato via Liloan. Tell the conductor to drop you off at Brgy. Tan-awan in Oslob for the whale shark which is just along the highway. Fare is around 155-180 Php and roughly a 3-hour ride from Cebu City.

If you’re traveling with a group, you can also check for Cebu cars and van rentals. Or you can hop-in any agencies offering package tour to Oslob Whaleshark.

Another way is to get your own private car to bring you to Oslob. Rent with a driver so you can leave early morning and return the same day. Check here for rates for a private car.

Chase Waterfalls at Tumalog Waterfalls

This waterfall is considered one of the most impressive waterfalls in Cebu. You can swim here and enjoy the morning after swimming with the whale sharks. A 10-minute drive from the whale shark area. The path to it is a hard concrete which is a steep uphill drive and then suddenly a steep downhill road which ends up at the foot of the waterfall. Tumalog Waterfalls is enveloped and protected by the natural, some century-old trees and endemic plants in the area. I love how the falls were beautifully structured by Mother Nature. The falls themselves are like no others. Something out of a movie. It’s like a huge hanging garden with small showers cascading over the top.

Swimming in the water or sitting by the small lagoon at the bottom and letting the small fish nibble at your feet was unique. The water is cool and fresh, and you can get a great healing massage if you decide to stay few minutes under any of the sizes of falling waters and I felt like I was in a different dimension. A must-see attraction and a well maintained scenic gem hidden in Oslob.

The entrance to Tumalog waterfalls is P20 per person and it is open 24 hours. The location is also in Oslob.

How to get to Tumalog Waterfalls from Cebu?

Take a bus from Cebu South bus terminal bound for Oslob. Down to the national highway drop off in barangay Luka. Let the driver know that you are getting off at the crossing for Tumalog Waterfall. From there, you can hire a motorbike (habal-habal) that can take you to the drop off point of the falls.

To have a more comfortable travel, I suggest renting or getting your own private car-minivan to bring you around there. You can check here for rates.

From the whale shark feeding center, take a motorbike and head over to Tumalog waterfall. Or if you are bringing your ride, you can park somewhere near the falls and you need to walk for about 15 minutes to get down to the falls are.

See the Pristine Beauty of Bantayan Island

If you want to relax and get away from urban life for a while, Bantayan Island is the perfect place for you. A cheaper alternative to Boracay Island. With its crystal clear waters of the ocean, the fine white sand, the laid back environment, and friendly locals make this island a wonderful and stress-free get-away destination. It’s a very affordable place to stay with its pristine beauty of beaches. You can stroll the whole island by motorcycle or pedicab with rentals around 100-150 per hour. You can enjoy the panoramic view of the horizon with no slippers on to feel powdery of white sand.

In exploring the island, you can visit the Mangroove Park with the entrance fee of P20-40 per head. Enjoy sight-seeing the beautiful structure of St. Peter and St. Paul church. Unwind in Ogtong Cave’s pool or snorkel in Virgin Island, the marine sanctuary and other nearby islands. Shop-in their local market for dried foods and watch a romantic sunset at the Madridejos Town. Note, don’t forget to bring your sunblock because the island is very hot.

How to get to Bantayan Island from Cebu?

You can access the island via Cebu mainland or via Sagay City, a northern part of Negros Occidental.

From Cebu City, you can catch a bus in Cebu North Terminal going to Hagnaya port in the town of San Remigio. Bus leaves as early as 4 am, fare starts around P140-200 depending on the type of bus. Travel time is approximately 3-4 hours. Then board the Island Shipping or Super shuttle ferry bound for Santa Fe Port and fare is around P170. You can book your ferry tickets here.

At Santa Fe port, follow the covered walk to the tourism office because you have to pay the Ecological fee which is P 30. Then, take a tricycle to where you stay at and the fare is around P 20-25.

Where to Stay in Cebu

From simple dorms, cheap hostels to high-end, luxury hotels, Cebu City has a lot to offer when it comes to travel accommodations. Here are some lists of hotels, inns, guest houses and other types of accommodation that will surely provide you, your friends or family with great value for money. They are ranged from the cheapest to make it easier to find the best place to stay based on your budget. Or you can grab the lowest rates by booking online as soon as your trip is planned.

SUGBU FAMILY HOTEL

• Prices start from P 250/pax per night (depending on the season)
• Contact Number(s): +63322328888
• Website/Other Resources: Check Rate Per Night

TR3ATS GUEST HOUSE

• Prices start from P300/pax per night (depending on the season)

TRAVELBEE CAPITOL INN

• Prices start from P600/pax per night (depending on the season)

CEBU CENTURY HOTEL

• Prices start from P 650/pax per night (depending on the season)

GV TOWER HOTEL

• Prices starts from P 695/pax per night (depending on the seasons)

SAMPAGUITA SUITES JRG

• Prices start from P 698/pax per night(depending on the season)

Cebu Itinerary and Budget for Cebu Travel

If you have 2 or 3 days to spend in Cebu, then you’ll be able to enjoy most of the places we have listed.  For a budget, you can put 1000 to 1500 pesos for a day for 2 pax on a cheap accommodation budget. This budget can go up if you want to stay at better hotels too.

Related Read : Top 20 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

Cebu Sample Travel Itinerary

DAY 1 – Arrival in Cebu Mactan Airport ( early arrival is ideal so you can make the most of your trip)

• Travel from Mactan Airport to Lapu Lapu Monument by taxi
• Lapu Lapu monument to hotel (check – in)
• Check – in and freshen up
• Taxi to Fort San Pedro to start the Old Cebu tour of Plaza Independencia, Magellan’s Cross, Sto Nino Church and museum, Heritage Monument and more
• End the day with dinner or go to TOPS Lookout Busay

DAY 2 – Visit Kawasan Falls and experience  Canyoning

• Wake up bright and early and make your way to Kawasan Falls in Badian.
• You can book a Canyoneering experience through Klook
• Enjoy the whole day
• Travel back to your hotel

If you have another day to spend, here’s DAY 3

DAY 3 – Visit Cebu’s Grand Taj Mahal – Temple of Leah

• Hire your own transfer to the temple
• Enjoy your morning there
• Get to the mall to do your souvenir shopping
• Check out and fly back or continue on your journey

Cebu has something to satisfy your wanderlust! With its great variety of natural and man made wonders and offers a wide array of activities with numerous places to visit. So what are you waiting to pack up your bags and visit the island of Cebu!

Have you ever been to Cebu? Let us know what we missed!

Read all our travel planning articles about Cebu here.

Ayet is a teacher by profession and has travelled the Philippines doing it mostly by herself. She loves to travel and explore new places too. A 20-ish something who is an adventure-seeker and loves to put all her amazing travel experiences into writing. She aims to visit all around the world’s beautiful destinations and pursue her dream career in travel.

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• TRAVEL GUIDES
• Destinations

Cebu Travel Guide: Tourist Spots + Hotels + Getting Around

• Best Time to Go to Cebu

Dry and Summer Season | December to May

Sinulog festival | january, climate and weather, what to wear.

• How to Get to Cebu

Getting around Cebu

Where to stay in cebu, budget accommodations, mid-range accommodations, luxury accommodations.

• What to See and Do in Cebu City
• Visit Fort San Pedro and Basilica del Santo Niño
• See Magellan’s Cross

Go Inside the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House

• What to See and Do in North Cebu
• Spot Thresher Sharks in Malapascua
• Walk Along the White Sand Beaches of Bantayan Island
• Go Spelunking, Cliff Diving, and Kayaking in Camotes Island
• What to See and Do in South Cebu
• Head to Simala Shrine
• Go on a Moalboal Sardine Run

Experience Canyoneering and Swim in Kawasan Falls

• Hike Osmeña Peak

What to Eat and Drink in Cebu

Practical information and tips, sample itinerary in cebu, day 1: mactan island-hopping + sightseeing, day 2: camotes island.

• Day 3:  Lake Danao + Cebu

Day 4: Cebu City Sightseeing + Lechon

• Day 5: South Cebu's Sardine Run + Canyoneering + and Kawasan Falls
• Day 6: Cebu City churches and temples

Discover the Unique Attractions in Cebu

Explore Cebu and its many tourist attractions from islands and beaches, diving spots, historical landmarks, to local delicacies. Here are some essential travel tips to take note of if you're traveling to one of the best tourist spots in the Philippines . 

When it comes to Visayas tourist spots in the Philippines , nothing is as diverse as Cebu , the Queen City of the South, and the oldest city in the country. Outside of Luzon, it's one of the most urbanized cities in the country after the capital  Manila .

It's also where Mactan-Cebu International Airport is located, making it accessible not just to domestic travelers but to foreigners as well. It's a good spot to begin your exploration of the Philippines , as other nearby destinations that you can visit  are accessible.

• Book an Oslob whale shark and Kawasan Falls tour
• Try Kawasan Falls canyoneering
• Read our article on other  activities in Cebu

The name Cebu refers both to the island province and Cebu City. While most cultural and historic attractions are found in the capital, the best-known  tourist spots in Cebu can be found all over the province.

See our popular Cebu Vacation Packages

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Cebu has some of the  best beaches in the Philippines . It is also home to a variety of historical, cultural, and religious sites that you can check out via  Cebu City tours .

Cebu also nestles spectacular marine life. Divers travel to Cebu diving hotspots like Malapascua to swim with thresher sharks. Thresher sharks can be regularly seen around the waters of Malapascua Island. In the waters of Moalboal, you will be able to  swim with millions of sardines  underwater.

There are also several waterfalls in Cebu, the most popular one being Kawasan Falls in Badian, where you can try canyoneering. The refreshing turquoise waters of many of Cebu's waterfalls are great places to take a dip during a hot day. 

Cebu's delicious cuisine is also one of the best when it comes to food in the Philippines . Respected food writer Anthony Bourdain once raved about the famed Cebu's Lechon baboy (roasted pig).  

There are plenty of things to do and places to visit in Cebu, making it a must-add to any Philippine itinerary. To help you plan your trip, read this guide on what you need to know about traveling in and around this island province. 

Best Time to Go to Cebu  

If you’re planning to go to Cebu to do water activities, the best time to go would be from January to April. The weather during these months is ideal because there is less chance of rain and it’s not too humid.

Another good time to go to Cebu is during its Sinulog Festival held every third Sunday of January. Also called the Santo Nino Festival, it's one of the most popular festivals in the country and attracts up to 2 million visitors every year. 

If you don't like crowds or you want to score cheap deals, then visit Cebu from July to October. These months are considered the low season. It is when prices are most economical, and there are fewer travelers checking out Cebu's top attractions.

The remaining months of the year generally have better weather, but you'd find yourself amid crowds. The holidays are crowded, too, especially during Holy Week. 

See our popular Cebu to El Nido Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

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These months are the ideal time to visit Cebu for warm-weather activities such as swimming, diving, canyoneering, and sightseeing. With less rainfall,  you can enjoy outdoor activities and water adventures fully. 

A lot of important events happen during this time, such as Christmas or holidays, the Sinulog Festival, and Holy Week. However, traffic in the cities will be busier than usual, and there will be a crowd at every Cebu tourist spot.

See our popular Siargao to Cebu Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

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Cebu Province celebrates extravagant festivals, and the Sinulog Festival is the biggest of them all. You can witness the colorful Sinulog Festival on the third Sunday of January. It is to celebrate and honor the patron saint of Cebu, Santo Niño. 

This festival was first celebrated in the 1980s. This annual parade is one of the most popular festivals in the country, with locals and international travelers attending street parties that happen before and after the celebration. A lot of local celebrities also go to Cebu to join the annual festivities.

Before heading to Cebu, make sure to check  weather updates to avoid any problems during your trip. Learning about the climate and weather of your destination is the best way to prevent canceled plans due to inclement weather conditions. 

Take note that the hot season in Cebu lasts for around 3 months. It is from April to June, with an average daily high temperature above 32°C. On the other hand, the cool season lasts for 2 to 3 months. It lasts from December to February, with an average daily high temperature below 30°C. 

Over the year, the temperature in Cebu typically varies from 24°C to 32°C, but it rarely goes below 23°C or above 34°C. Here’s a summary of the average temperature in Cebu.

Source: Weather Spark

The ideal time to visit Cebu City for hot-weather activities would be from early January to mid-April. These months are perfect because they are not too hot, and at the same time, they receive less rainfall than the other months. Here’s a summary of the average monthly rainfall in Cebu:

During the summer season, it's best to wear light, breathable clothes as the weather can get hot and humid. If you’re coming to Cebu from June to November,  bring an umbrella or jacket since these months are the rainy season. 

If you're joining the celebration of the Sinulog Festival in January, you must wear comfortable clothes as there will be big crowds in the streets. Make sure to bring a compact bag as well during this time. There are a lot of custom-made Sinulog shirts, too, so walk around the various establishments and take your pick.

How to Get to Cebu

There are various ways to go to Cebu, depending on where you’re coming from. If you’re coming from anywhere in the Philippines, you have the option to travel by air or sea. As for international travelers, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport services various international flights. Make sure to fix your itinerary first before you book your flights.

Traveling by air is the most convenient and hassle-free way to reach Cebu. You can book direct cheap flights to the Philippines and Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the gateway to Cebu. It is where you will be arriving. It is just an hour or so from Cebu City.

Here are your travel options, depending on where you're coming from. Take note that it's essential to book beforehand as flights might be limited depending on where you're coming from.

From Luzon and Mindanao

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport is connected to over 20 domestic destinations. Wherever you are in the Philippines, you won’t have trouble flying to Mactan. There are flights to Cebu from major cities in Luzon and Mindanao.

Major jump-offs include Clark International Airport in Angeles City, Davao International Airport in Davao City, and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila.

• Manila to Cebu flights
• Davao to Cebu flights
• Iloilo to Cebu flights
• Book Siargao to Cebu Philippine tour packages
• See our  10-day Davao to Cebu to Siargao Philippine tour package

There are a lot of affordable flights from Manila to Cebu. You can take any local carrier like Philippine Airlines , Cebu Pacific , or Air Asia . You can also go to Mactan from smaller airports in the Philippines like Kalibo, Iloilo, or Puerto Princesa. 

How to Go to Cebu from Baguio

Travelers from Baguio City are also able to fly directly to Cebu. The Philippine-flag carrier airline, Philippine Airlines, has 4 Baguio to Cebu flights per week servicing the Cebu to Baguio (CEB to BAG) and Baguio to Cebu (BAG to CEB) routes.

From Baguio, your plane will depart from  Loakan Airport or Baguio Airport and arrive at the  Mactan-Cebu International Airport . The airport in Baguio was temporarily closed but has already reopened. The reopening of the airport near Baguio City also makes other North Luzon destinations more accessible from Cebu and other Visayas tourist spots and destinations. Check out our sample Cebu to Baguio itinerary . 

From International Destinations

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport is now connected to 21 international destinations. So, if you’re coming from North and Southeast Asia (Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong), you’ll have no problem finding direct flights to Cebu.

You can also take Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Cathay Pacific, Asiana, Singapore Airlines, Korean Air, Eva Air, China Southern, Asiana, and Silk Air, as these have direct flights to Cebu. 

• Dubai to Cebu flights
• Singapore to Cebu flights
• See our  1-week Coron to Cebu to Siargao Philippines island-hopping packages

There are also long-haul flights to and from Los Angeles and Dubai. Other major jump-offs include; Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Dubai International Airport in the UAE, Incheon International Airport in Seoul, Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, Narita International Airport in Japan, Changi Airport in Singapore, and Taoyuan International Airport in Taiwan.

From the airport, you can hop on a taxi or hire a Cebu car rental  going to your accommodations

You can also go to Cebu by ferry or fast craft, although it’s generally not advisable unless you have a lot of time. Cebu has a bustling port complex, and so you can travel to Cebu on fast crafts or ferries from Manila and other local destinations. 

• See our Cebu-Bohol tour packages
• Book your Cebu to Bohol ferry ticket

Ferry operators such as  2Go ,  Oceanjet , and  Weesam Express have regular trips to Cebu from Manila, Dumaguete, Bohol, Iloilo, Leyte, Cagayan de Oro, and Butuan.

See our popular Cebu-Bohol Tour Packages Philippines Itinerary

Ultimate 2-week islands & adventure tour to palawan, boracay, cebu & bohol package from manila, incredible 10-day sightseeing & island hopping tour to bohol, cebu & puerto princesa from manila.

You will need to learn how to get around the cities and towns to get to Cebu’s tourist attractions. Cebu has a variety of transportation options.

The primary mode of transport is the jeepney, which has specific routes that can take you around the city. Jeepneys, multicabs, buses, and tricycles serve as the general transport between towns.

Take note that public transport in Cebu has limitations. For instance, jeepneys can only travel within and across cities like Cebu City, Mandaue City, Talisay City, and even Lapu-Lapu City on Mactan Island. But jeepneys typically cannot bring you out of town. Remember, Cebu Province is expansive.

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You will need to ride a bus to go from the cities to the municipalities or rural areas of Cebu Province. On the other hand, tricycles are not allowed on the main thoroughfares.

If you're traveling to the northern towns of Cebu, head to the Cebu North Bus Terminal (in Subangdaku, Mandaue City). The North Bus is where you can find buses to go to places like Hagnaya, Kawit, and Bogo. Mini-buses also take off from here to places like Catmon, Carmen, and Danao.

The Cebu South Bus Terminal (in Sambag, Cebu City), on the other hand, leads you to Santander and Oslob, and minibuses also take off here for Argao, Moalboal, and Carcar.

Jeepneys and Multicabs

Jeepneys or jeeps are the most popular means of public transportation in the Philippines along major highways. They ply specific routes that can take you around the city.

Originally made from U.S. military jeeps left over from World War II, jeepneys have become an iconic symbol of Philippine culture and art. Riding these open-aired vehicles in congested streets offers an interesting experience for first-time visitors. 

Multicabs, on the other hand, are small light trucks that serve the same purpose as jeeps. In fact, they are used interchangeably in Cebu. Like jeepneys, multicabs have fixed routes and can be found throughout the Philippines.

Motorized tricycles, or simply tricycles, are the Philippine version of the auto-rickshaw. They are also comparable to Thailand’s tuk-tuk. Tricycles ply the barangay roads throughout the Cebu Province, and they go where the jeepneys can’t. Tricycles can’t pass by major roads, but you can hail one anywhere as long as you’re not on the highway. 

Taxi or Car Booking App

Typically, commuting in Cebu entails at least one jeepney ride and one tricycle ride. If you can’t stand going through multiple transfers, then you can take a taxi or book with the  Grab app . Both options are popular modes of transportation in Cebu, so you shouldn’t find any trouble getting one.

While Grab is usually more expensive than riding jeepneys or buses, these can ensure you can get around safely and in comfort. You don’t have to do multiple transfers, which is convenient for travelers coming from and going to the airport.

Motorcycle Booking App

If you are traveling solo, you can use the app the motorcycle-hailing app,  Angkas . You can hire a rider to pick you up and take you to your desired location.  Angkas is similar to Grab Motorbike in other countries like Vietnam.

It is an excellent option if you're up for a more adventurous mode of transportation.  Angkas is also ideal if you are in a hurry since motorcycles can navigate through heavy traffic easily. Additionally, this costs relatively less than a taxi or car booking app.

Private Car or Van

If you’re traveling from the city to the rural towns, you might need to get on a bus, ride a jeepney afterward, and possibly hop on a tricycle.

Multiple transfers are unavoidable if you’re traveling to further towns of the province via public transportation. If this isn’t comfortable for you, renting a car or van is your best option.

You can hire a private car or a Cebu van rental  with a driver for your trip to either the northern or southern towns of Cebu.

It's more convenient, especially when you're traveling with a group. You may also book a  car rental in Cebu that allows you to drive the vehicle yourself.

If you're still on the fence about which hotels in Cebu to book, there are several types of accommodations available in the cities and even in rural towns. Cebu Province is a popular destination, and as such, budget hotels in Cebu are easy to find. Likewise, there is no shortage of mid-range or luxury resorts, some of which offering  Philippine luxury vacation packages .

• See Santorini-inspired resorts in the Philippines

Whatever type of traveler you are, you will find the right hotel in Cebu where you can unwind and relax. Here are the common types of accommodations in Cebu.

Types of Accommodations

Where you'll stay in Mactan depends on your preference, the number of people staying, and your budget. Here are some of the types of accommodation in Mactan.

Island and Beach Resorts

Cebu Province is blessed with many beautiful beaches that are frequented by both local and foreign travelers. This is why it comes as no surprise that the beaches in Cebu are often flanked by some of the most beautiful beach resorts in the Philippines that range from budget to luxury. 

Cebu beach resorts boast stellar service and top-notch facilities. Some even have spa facilities, as well as restaurants, which is why many choose to stay in these resorts for their honeymoon in the Philippines . While some provide basic amenities, you can still expect cozy and comfortable lodging. 

Whether you're in Cebu for business or pleasure, there are a lot of hotels where you can stay that offer complete amenities. You have to find the right location that fits your itinerary.

• 3D2N Citadines Cebu staycation package
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If you're looking for hotels near Cebu airport , then look no further than the hotels in Mactan. If you want to be closer to the center of the province, there are several Cebu hotels near Ayala Mall, which is a famous shopping center.

Hostels and Budget Lodgings

If you're a solo traveler or a backpacker on a budget, then staying in a hostel or a budget hotel in Cebu is your best bet. Staying in a dorm-type room or a budget hotel room with basic amenities is excellent because you can allocate more of your budget to exploring your destination.

Just make sure the place is near the attractions on your itinerary to avoid overspending on transportation.

Vacation Rentals

If you're going to be in Cebu for a longer period, or if you are traveling with a big group, consider renting a private house instead. This is more advantageous for large groups who want to save money but don't want to sacrifice essential amenities such as a kitchen and laundry services. Some even offer indoor pools and gardens.

Make sure to check the neighborhood of the vacation house first before you rent it, as it might be far from the spots you plan on visiting.

Neighborhoods and Areas

It is a common misconception that Cebu refers just to the city. Cebu is also one big island province.

Metro Cebu is made up of major cities like Cebu City, Mandaue City, Carcar City, Naga City, Lapu-Lapu City, and Talisay City. Metro Cebu also consists of municipalities like Compostela, Minglanilla, Liloan, Consolacion, and San Fernando.

More than that, Cebu Province has more towns that are not part of Metro Cebu but are booming attractions. This section will run you through the Cebu towns and cities that are hotspots.

Cebu City is a bustling metropolis. It boasts several malls like SM Seaside City, which is the third-largest shopping mall in the country. Other malls include SM Cebu, Ayala Center Cebu, and Robinsons Galleria.

There are also business, leisure, and lifestyle hubs like Cebu IT Park. Cebu IT Park in Lahug s a local favorite for its wide array of well-loved restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are also several hotels near IT Park as well. 

Another Cebu City hotspot is General Maxilom Avene, popularly known as Mango Avenue. The length of this major thoroughfare is lined with bars and restaurants that cater to both locals and foreigners.

There are several hotels nearby. Ayala Mall and the famous House of Lechon and Larsian Barbecue are also just a stone’s throw away from Mango Avenue.

Mango Avenue is right beside Fuente Osmeña Circle. Fuente Osmeña Circle is said to be the epicenter of the whole Cebu Province. Additionally, Mango Avenue is an excellent jump-off point if you’re visiting historical sites such as Fort Santiago, Casa Gorordo, and Magellan’s Cross.

Mactan 

Mactan is separated from mainland Cebu by the Mactan Channel and connected by the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and the Mactan-Mandaue Bridge. Lapu-Lapu City and the Municipality of Cordova occupy Mactan island.

Lapu-Lapu City in Mactan is dubbed as the “Historic Resort City.” As the name implies, the city got the title for its rich historical background and its impressive array of beach resorts. Lapu-Lapu’s shores are lined with world-class hotels and resorts. 

Mactan Island is also home to top diving sites, beautiful islets, and marine sanctuaries. You can go island-hopping or go diving and snorkeling in the vibrant waters of Mactan.

Additionally, Mactan offers unique dining experiences like the Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant and Entoy's Bakasihan.  Aside from the water activities and culinary treats, other Mactan attractions include the Alegre Guitar Factory and the Mactan Shrine.

If you want a hotel near the airport, and the above-mentioned Mactan activities are the ones you’re looking forward to the most, then book a hotel in Mactan. 

See our popular Mactan Island Tours

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Malapascua is an island on the northern tip of Cebu.  Malapascua Island is popular among locals and international travelers as an excellent diving spot. The island is famous for being the only place in the whole world where you can  dive with thresher sharks daily.

• See our  Malapascua diving packages
• Read about the best  Cebu diving spots
• Book Cebu diving packages

Apart from its breathtaking underwater scenery, the beachfront is Malapascua’s other best feature. Beaches in Malapascua are beautiful and less commercialized. 

Bounty Beach is the best beachfront on Malapascua Island. It has the longest stretch of white sand on the island, and it also flaunts the best ocean views. Bounty Beach is lined with hotels, dive centers, and restaurants. There are other beaches in other parts of the island, however, most Malapascua accommodations are on or near Bounty Beach. 

Malapascua is a small island, so no matter where you choose to book your accommodations on the island,  you will still be within walking distance of the beach. 

The town of Moalboal in the southwestern tip of Cebu is world-famous for its breathtaking sardine run. Picture yourself swimming amidst millions of sardines in crystal clear waters. Many travelers who have witnessed this underwater marvel have described it as a breathtaking and surreal experience.

You can witness the sardine run just a few meters off the shore of Pescador Island. What makes this even more impressive is that you can witness the sardine run all year round. 

If the sound of an underwater adventure like this gets your heart racing, book a room in Moalboal. There are two areas you'll want to consider, Panagsama Beach and White Beach. Panagsama is where you can witness the sardine run and go turtle-watching. You will find more places to stay, dine, and dive in Panagsama. White Beach boasts a modest stretch of white sand beach with azure waters. There are resorts and lodges here, but they may be more expensive as they are not too many in the area.

Oslob  is a small coastal town on the southern tip of Cebu mainland. It has recently become a buzzing destination because of whale shark tours.

The whale sharks are not the only attractions they have. You can find the idyllic Sumilon Sandbar and the majestic Tumalog Waterfalls here. Oslob also boasts coral reefs, secret caves, and even heritage sites and Spanish ruins. 

Oslob may be small, but thanks to the rising influx of travelers, there are many options for hotels, hostels, and even guesthouses to choose from. 

Dalaguete is a first-class municipality in the southeastern tip of Cebu. The agricultural town is known as the “Vegetable Basket of Cebu” because of the high-quality crops it supplies to the whole province.

Mantalongon Dalagauete is also dubbed the “Little Baguio and Summer Capital of Cebu” due to its cool climate. Many local travelers from the lowland cities come to the scenic mountain ranges of this town to escape the summer heat.

Dalaguete is home to the highest mountain in Cebu, Osmeña Peak.  Rising 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña Peak is one of several spire-like formations that comprise the Mantalongon Mountain Range.

The picturesque trail to the peak is an easy leisurely hike that takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The breathtaking jagged skylike, the panoramic view of Cebu’s southeast coastline, and a glimpse of Negros and Bohol in the distance make the long trek to the top worth it.

Aside from the picturesque Osmeña Peak, you can also find a beautiful beach and a cold spring in Dalaguete. Locals frequent the Dalaguete Beach Park for its stretch of pristine white sand beach and crystal clear waters.

The calm azure waters of the Obong Cold Spring are loved by weary travelers and anyone who wants a quick respite from the heat. If you're planning to go on a road trip to the southern towns of Cebu, Dalaguete is an excellent place to book your accommodations.

Accommodations Highlights

Hotels in Cebu range from luxury to mid-range and budget-friendly. Regardless if you’re there for work, vacation, or your honeymoon in the Philippines , you’re sure to find accommodations that fit your style and budget. Here are some budget, mid-range, and luxury resorts and hotels you can stay in the different parts of Cebu:

You can find a handful of budget hotels all over Cebu. You can find a wide selection ranging from dorm-type rooms to private rooms with basic amenities that won't burn a hole through your wallet.

When deciding on which budget accommodation, assess if it is located near the top attractions on your Cebu itinerary to avoid overspending on transportation.

Red Doorz Cebu Century Plaza (Cebu City)

This Red Doorz is a chain of budget hotels in Cebu. Red Doorz Cebu Century Plaza in uptown Cebu is strategically located near Mango Avenue. 

It is surrounded by shopping malls, museums, restaurants, and cafes. Red Doorz offers air-conditioned rooms with basic amenities including, WiFI, toiletries, mineral water, and a 24-hour front desk.

Malapascua Budget Inn (Malapascua Island)

You can choose from dorm-type and single or family room accommodations. The rooms are simple, but they have air conditioning. The bathrooms also come with hot and cold showers.

There is a lounge and a bar where guests can chill out with fellow travelers. It's a great place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in the backpacking culture.

Moalboal Backpackers Lodge (Moalboal)

Moalboal Backpackers Lodge is a no-frill hostel strategically located in Panagsama Beach. It is a colorful, low-rise building that is a minute away on foot from the beach. Moalboal Backpackers Lodge is regarded as the first hostel in Moalboal.

They offer beds in dormitory fan rooms, and they also have private rooms. They also have hammocks, and WiFi is free in the entire area.

Amit Hostel (Oslob)

Amit Hostel is budget-friendly lodging at the beachfront of Oslob. They offer air-conditioned rooms with amazing ocean views and free Wi-Fi. Amit Hostel provides each room with a private bathroom. The hostel has a shared kitchen where you can cook your meals. 

Mactan Backpackers Inn (Lapu-Lapu City)

Mactan Backpakers Inn has a bar, a shared lounged, and free WiFI. It's a great place to meet fellow travelers! One of the best things about this budget hotel is that it's near the city center.

If you're not splurging on high-end amenities, but still want a comfortable hotel to stay in, the mid-range accommodations in Cebu have you covered. You can find several accommodations that offer excellent service and facilities without burning a hole through your wallet. Check out these top-rated mid-range hotels in Cebu.

Bayfront Hotel (Cebu City)

Bayfront Hotel is a 3-star business hotel that is a mere 15-minute walk from SM City Cebu. This hotel offers rooms with overlooking city views, WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar. Aside from its fitness center, they also have a buffet restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

Goldberry Suites & Hotel Mactan (Lapu-Lapu City)

One of the top-rated business boutique hotels in Mactan, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms equipped with cable TV, WiFi, and private bathrooms. They also offer spa packages at their spa station, a gastronomic food experience at their restaurant, a gift shop, and conference rooms for booking.

Dakong Bato Beach and Leisure Resort (Dalaguete)

One of the beach resorts in Dalaguete that offers top-tier amenities, this resort offers air-conditioned rooms with complete facilities such as a private bathroom, TV, and WiFi.

They have a basketball court, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, a bar and lounge, and a business center. One can also try an array of recreational activities such as boating, kayaking, and spelunking.

BlueWater Resort/ Malapascua Beach Resort (Malapascua Island)

BlueWater Resort falls under the mid-range accommodations. This hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom and shower to solo travelers and big groups. They also have their own outdoor pool dive bar, an al-fresco restaurant, and conference rooms for business travelers.

Gingging Hotel & Resort (Oslob)

Considered one of Oslob's hidden gems, this beach resort has air-conditioned rooms overlooking the sea, creating that relaxing vibe.

All of the rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, WiFi, en-suite bathrooms, and a seating area. They also have an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, and a bar.

Cebu Province is home to several 4-star and 5-star beach resorts and hotels that offer world-class facilities and services. If you like to travel in style and you have the resources to book premium accommodations, Cebu won’t disappoint. Experience the lap of luxury at these top-rated Cebu resorts and hotels.

Best Western Plus Lex (Cebu City)

Best Western Lex is nestled in the heart of uptown Cebu. This upscale hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with various amenities, such as WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a mini bar. The hotel also has a fitness center and an infinity pool on its roof deck.

Ocean Vida Beach Resort (Malapascua Island)

This luxury beach resort is located on Malapascua's Bounty Beach and is considered one of the most popular accommodations in the area for its sea view rooms and garden view rooms.

All of the rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a mini-bar, a hot and cold shower in its en-suite bathrooms, and a balcony. They also have a restaurant, a bar, and a dive center.

Kasai Village Dive Resort (Moalboal)

One of the best dive resorts in Moalboal, this luxury hotel is perfect for those wanting to get the full diving experience while still having a relaxing time.

Their air-conditioned rooms offering ocean views are well-equipped with a mini bar, a refrigerator, and an en-suite bathroom. Aside from an outdoor pool, they also have a dive center that has facilities you can only experience at a first-class diving resort.

Eden Resort (Oslob)

One of the most well-known high-end beach resorts in Oslob,  this resort offers air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV, balcony, in-room safe, an en-suite bathroom, a refrigerator, and a mini-bar.

Aside from their restaurant and outdoor infinity pool, they also have a private beach where one can enjoy various recreational water activities.

Shangri-la’s Mactan Resort & Spa (Lapu-Lapu City)

Just a 15-minute drive from Mactan-Cebu International Airport, this luxurious hotel resort offers high-class amenities. Their spacious air-conditioned rooms have their mini-bar, a flat-screen TV, en-suite bathrooms, and WiFi.

• Check out other luxury resorts in the Philippines

They also have their private balconies that offer panoramic sea views and garden views. Aside from its luxurious restaurants, bars, and lounges, the resort houses one of the largest spas in Asia, CHI. One can also enjoy their gym and tennis courts.

What to See and Do in Cebu City      

Cebu's international airport is on Mactan Island, around an hour from the city. You can stay in Mactan to explore the nearby islands and marine sanctuaries. The Olango Group of Islands, which includes trips to Nalusuan Island and Hilutungan Island, are some of the places you can visit when you explore Mactan's protected marine sanctuaries .

• Join a  Cebu City and Mactan sightseeing tour

You can also choose to stay in hotels in Cebu City, where you can easily access the other attractions and destinations in the province. The city has several attractions that show the rich history not only of the province but of the Philippines as well. Here are some attractions you can check out:

• Check island-hopping trips in Cebu

Visit Fort San Pedro and Basilica del Santo Niño

It is the Philippines' oldest triangular bastion fort. It was built by the Spanish in the 1700s to drive off Muslim raiders. Around the same time, the Basilica del Santo Niño was also built, making it the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines. It stands where an icon of the Santo Niño de Cebu was found during the Spanish era.

See Magellan’s Cross

Just a few minutes from the church stands Magellan’s Cross. The large wooden cross was built after Ferdinand Magellan set foot in Cebu in the 1500s. It is housed in an octagonal pavilion in front of Cebu City Hall.

• Browse trips to Magellan's Cross

The original cross was regarded as a miraculous relic. However, natives chipped pieces away as souvenirs. Now the replica is encased to protect it. 

See our popular Magellan's Cross Tours

Cebu city top attractions half-day private tour with transfers, cebu city & highlands shared tour with lunch & transfers, cebu city top attractions tour with transfers + optional mactan island stops.

Nearby Magellan's Cross is the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, a two-story residence built in the 1700s from coral stones and molave. Inside this ancestral house are artifacts and well-preserved antique furniture crafted by Cebu's artisans.

These Cebu travel spots are located close together in and around Plaza Independencia. So it’s easy to do a walking tour from one attraction to the next in a matter of one to two hours. Alternatively, you can also book a day tour of Cebu's historical sites to appreciate the city's heritage fully.

What to See and Do in North Cebu    

If you love diving, snorkeling, or beach bumming, head to North Cebu. It is known for some of the best islands in the region and rich marine life. These are some of the best things you can do there:

Spot Thresher Sharks in Malapascua    

North Cebu is most notable for thresher sharks in Malapascua, a small island off the coast of Daanbantayan, which is well known for its plethora of world-class dive spots.

Malapascua's waters are teeming with vibrant coral walls and large sea vertebrates. While thresher sharks can be seen in other parts of the world, diving in Malapascua allows divers to see them regularly.

If you’re not too keen on diving, the white sand beaches of Malapascua are also worth visiting on their own. They have been compared favorably to the beaches in Boracay .

• Book  Cebu to Boracay packages

There’s also the Guimbitayan lighthouse, which you can hike for a panoramic view of the entire island. 

See our popular Cebu to Boracay Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

Amazing 12-day nature & beaches tour to bohol, cebu & boracay package from manila, magical 13-day whale shark & islands adventure tour to cebu and boracay package from manila, best 5-day islands & highlands tour to cebu & boracay package, walk along the white sand beaches of bantayan island  .

Bantayan Island is best known for its excellent beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It has several heritage sites as well, including the Parish Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, and the Abello Theater that was built just after World War II.

There is a beautiful white sand beach in Bantayan, along with a mangrove garden and a botanical garden. For something off the beaten path, you can check out the Casa de Antiguedades, a private house that is open to the public. It showcases a wide array of curiosities and antiques that the owner has collected over the years.

Go Spelunking, Cliff Diving, and Kayaking in Camotes Island 

Camotes Island in northern Cebu offers a range of outdoor activities for thrill-seekers; one of the most popular ones is spelunking. The Holy Crystal Cave is unique in that its chambers are naturally shaped downwards.

Visitors can access the chambers through a small entrance above ground, then descend eight levels down. You can also find well-preserved stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave. 

• Book a  Paraiso Cave, Santiago Beach, & Lake Danao Camotes Island tour
• Check out this  Bukilat Cave to Busay Falls Tudela Camotes Island tour package
• See our  2-day 1-night Camotes Island tour package

Another unique feature of Camotes is Lake Danao, whose shape forms the number eight. At 700 hectares, the lake is the biggest in the Visayas region, and as such, offers plenty of space for kayaking. Locally known as the Lover’s Lake, this is located on Pacijan Island, which is one of the islets in the well-known Camotes Islands group. 

What to See and Do in South Cebu     

South Cebu is known for its marine life and heritage spots. It is in this area where you can find and experience the famed Oslob whale shark, the sardine run, and the adrenaline-pumping  canyoneering trip to Kawasan Falls . These are some of the things you shouldn't miss in South Cebu:

Head to Simala Shrine      

Located in the town of Sibonga, around 2.5 hours from Cebu City, this one-of-a-kind shrine is one of the most visited churches in the region and is a staple in a Cebu pilgrimage tour . Known as the Safe Sanctuary of Mother Mary, the Simala Shrine has beautiful structures and spacious gardens.

It also houses several religious things inside and outside the church for devotees, including a massive statue of the Virgin Mary that is said to be miraculous. To avoid the crowd, go there from Monday to Thursday. Make sure to bring food and water, as well as protection from the sun. 

Go on a Moalboal Sardine Run      

Just around 2 to 3 hours south of Cebu City, Moalboal is a favorite destination of water lovers, specifically scuba and free divers. While a lot of travelers go to Oslob and Kawasan Falls on a day trip, it's still highly recommended to spend a night or two in Moalboal.

• Read:  Top Tourist Spots in Moalboal Cebu
• Book Cebu to El Nido Philippine tour packages

This small coastal town is best known for its  sardine run , wherein millions of sardines form bait balls. What makes this spectacle magical is that the sardines don’t leave the shallows of Panagsama Beach.

You can experience them year-round, even with just a pair of swimming goggles. A lot of sea turtles can also be seen in the area.

Moalboal is also a popular spot for island hopping in the Philippines . You can go island-hopping to Pescador Island, and you can also dive and snorkel. It's only a few minutes by boat from Panagsama Beach, and you can find a reef populated with jacks, sponges, lionfish, and more around the island. 

See our popular Moalboal Tours and Activities

Cebu moalboal sardine run, pescador island & turtle bay tour with lunch & transfers from cebu city, cebu oslob whale shark watching & moalboal island hopping private day tour with lunch & transfers, south cebu oslob whale shark watching, sardine run & sumilon island private tour with transfers.

There are many waterfalls in Cebu. The most famous one is the Kawasan Falls of Badian. Kawasan Falls is a three-tiered cascade that features distinctly turquoise water. There are two ways to explore the falls. 

• Find Kawasan Falls and canyoneering adventures

One is by canyoneering for three to six hours from Alegria to Badian. This exciting tour requires visitors to navigate the towering gorges and boulders and swim through the river canyons and falls of Alegria and Badian. 

See our popular Canyoneering Tours

Cebu kawasan falls canyoneering, moalboal island hopping & sardine run tour with lunch & transfers, cebu badian kawasan falls canyoneering private tour with lunch & transfers, cebu oslob whale shark watching & kawasan canyoneering tour with safety gear, lunch & transfers.

Canyoneering in Cebu is an exhilarating water activity where you can slide, rappel, and even leap off 30-foot-high cliffs and into the blue waters of the waterfalls.

For those who want to take the easier route, you can go directly to the main entrance to the falls in Badian, then walk for a kilometer and a half to the first tier, where the basin and several cottages are located. Most visitors prefer to end their visit here, although you can opt to walk further uphill to reach the second and third tiers of the falls.

For a better and safer experience, book a  Kawasan Falls and canyoneering tour . They will provide you with all you need, from the gear to the transportation and guide.

See our popular Kawasan Falls Tours

Hike osmeña peak      .

At 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña Peak is Cebu’s highest. It is one of several spire-like formations comprising the Mantalongon Mountain Range in Dalaguete—perhaps the easiest, too.

A day hike to Osmeña Peak will treat you to an amazing jagged skyline view, a refreshing sight of the shore and even the far-off islands of Negros and Bohol. 

• Check out our list of the best farm stay resorts in the Philippines

The summit is a 20 to 30-minute leisurely walk from the jump-off point, mostly on flat terrain. En route, you will pass by local farms and livestock grazing on them.

The craggy rock formations at the summit afford one a stunning view of South Cebu and distant Negros Oriental. It can be windy at the peak, so take care not to lose your footing.

• Learn more about hiking in the Philippines with our hiking travel guide

One of the most exciting things to do in Cebu is to have a gastronomic food experience. It is home to the famous Cebu lechon (roasted pig), one of the most iconic dishes in Filipino cuisine . Here are some of the best authentic dishes you shouldn't miss during your stay in Cebu:

Local Cuisine

SuTuKil is a quintessential dining experience in the whole province of Cebu. The name SuTuKil is a combination of 3 Bisaya words, Sugba (grill) + Tuwa (broth) + Kilaw (similar to ceviche). 

You can pick what seafood you want and have it grilled, cooked with broth, or prepared like ceviche. You can also choose from a variety of fresh seafood, from a wide selection of fish, shellfish, crabs, lobsters, and even seaweed. Eat these with their local pusô, (a local term for "heart"), rice wrapped in heart-shaped coconut fronds. 

A visit to Cebu won't be complete without trying out its trademark meat: lechon. The dish is perfected by slow-roasting a pig with herbs and spices for hours to create crackling skin and tender meat. Cebu's version is so savory that you don't need any sauce to pair it with. It's best eaten with pusô. 

Recommended Best Restaurants 

There are a lot of restaurants in Cebu that serve authentic Visayan cuisine. What sets these food establishments apart from the others is how popular it is with the locals. Take note of these restaurants and food in Cebu; you might want to include them in your itinerary.

• Check out our article on halal food in Cebu

Rico’s Lechon

Rico's Lechon Cebu serves the best Lechon baboy. They use native organic pigs and stuff them with lemongrass, tomato, vinegar, and a mixture of local herbs and spices.    

Manna Sutukil

Manna Sutukil is situated near Mactan Shrine. It is a two-floor establishment that not only serve fresh seafood but also offers a scenic view of the shrine. After touring the Mactan Shrine, head on over to Manna Sutukil for a delightful seafood meal!

Entoy’s Bakasi

Saltwater eels, more known as “bakasi” in Cebu, are bountiful in Cordova waters. Its popularity as a local street food was recognized in Netflix’s “Street Food” series, specifically in its Cebu episode. You can try this dish at Entoy’s Bakasihan in Cordova, Cebu.

Entoy's eatery is not a fancy establishment. It is a humble shack in a small coastal barangay in Cordova. Aside from hearty servings of Linarang Bakasi (Eel sauteed in soy sauce, black beans, and tamarind), you get to enjoy a beautiful ocean view.

Tuslob Buwa

Considered as one of the unique street foods in Cebu, the main ingredient in tuslob buwa (which means "dip into bubbles") is pig's brain. The process of eating this is you'll dip the "puso" or wrap the rice in the thick soup made of broth, lard, pork brains, and liver. This combination is cheap and can be found in food stalls in Cebu.

Larsian BBQ

Larsian, a market-style dining strip similar to a "dampa," is located at Fuente Osmena, Cebu. There are numerous stalls available that offer a variety of ready-to-grill food, such as squid, chicken, and pork BBQ. You can either use a spoon and fork or eat with your bare hands.

Cebu-style bulalo, also known as "pochero," is very popular with locals and foreigners alike because of the way it has been prepared. You can either have it in soup-based or sizzling. Two of the well-known pochero restaurants you can visit are Kusina Uno and Abuhan's Pochero.

Siomai sa Tisa 

Siomai, or steamed Chinese pork dumplings, is very popular in Cebu. There's a stall called "Siomai sa Tisa," located at Tisa, Labangon, Cebu City, that has become popular due to its distinct flavor and affordable price. It's usually topped with garlic sauce and served on a plate wrapped in plastic.

For a hassle-free and convenient trip to Cebu, it's essential to read up on useful tips. These will come in handy if it's your first time in Cebu. 

The whole province of Cebu accepts payments in Philippine Peso (PHP). There are ATMs and money changers in the central district of major cities like Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, and Mandaue City.

However, ATMs and money changers become scarcer as you go north and south to the rural municipalities. To be safe, withdraw more than enough cash, and have your money changed to Philippine Peso before you leave Cebu City. 

ATMs are available in most establishments, such as malls and convenience stores. Not all establishments may accept credit card payments.

If you're in Cebu, and you want to address a local, expect an answer in either Cebuano, Tagalog, or English. Most locals understand English well, so don't be afraid to ask questions or directions. Say "Hello!" first when approaching them to establish a friendly tone. 

With all the activities and attractions you can explore in Cebu, we suggest a 6-day trip. Six days should cover most of the major attractions. Here's a sample itinerary to guide you in planning yours.

06:00 AM - ETA at Mactan International Airport

06:30 AM - Early check-in at your hotel, eat breakfast

08:00 PM - Mactan island-hopping tour

12:00 NN - Lunch during the tour

01:00 PM - Head back to your hotel room to freshen up 

03:00 PM -  Sightseeing in Mactan

07:00 PM - Dinner

07:00 AM - Breakfast 

08:00 AM - Departure from Mactan to Camotes Island

10:00 AM - Arrival at Camotes Island. Settle in at the resort

11:00 AM - Chill at the resort or go swimming in Santiago Beach

12:00 NN - Lunch

01:00 PM - Spelunking at Holy Crystal Cave

03:00 PM - Cliff-diving at Buho Rock

05:00 PM - Head back to the resort. 

06:00 PM - Dinner 

Day 3:  Lake Danao + Cebu

07:00 AM - Breakfast 

08:00 AM - Kayaking and sightseeing in Lake Danao

10:00 AM - Back to the resort to pack, chill, or buy souvenirs

04:00 PM - Get on fast craft back to Mactan

06:00 PM - Arrival at Mactan. Head to the hotel in Cebu City

08:00 PM - Arrival at Cebu hotel. Dinner at Larsian

08:00 AM - Breakfast 

09:00 AM - Sightseeing tour of Cebu City

05:00 PM - Head back to the hotel

08:00 PM - Have dinner at Rico’s Lechon

Day 5: South Cebu's Sardine Run + Canyoneering + and Kawasan Falls

05:00 AM - Breakfast 

06:00 AM - Moalboal sardine run with canyoneering and Kawasan Falls tour

12:00 NN - Lunch 

07:00 PM - Back at hotel in Cebu

08:00 PM - Dinner

Day 6: Cebu City churches and temples

08:00 AM - Breakfast

09:00 AM - Pilgrimage tour in Cebu City

05:00 PM - Late check-out at the hotel

06:00 PM - Dinner

09:00 PM - Departure

So many possibilities are in store for you when you visit the province of Cebu. Nature, beach, and adventure lovers are sure to fall in love with Cebu and its many destinations and tours . 

• Cebu to Coron to El Nido tour
• Quest Hotel Cebu tour package
• El Nido-Cebu-Bohol tour package
• Cebu to Boracay Package

We highly recommend exploring other destinations in Cebu aside from the city area. Visit the North and South areas of Cebu to find out for yourself why travelers keep coming back and raving about this province. 

If you’re heading to Cebu soon, check out  Cebu tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary.  

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Cebu Itinerary + Travel Budget Guide for first-timers

Cebu is easily one of my favorite travel destinations in the Philippines. This island is home to an amazing variety of travel-worthy places to see & experience. I always find good reasons to go and come back, especially because of Cebu’s wide flight/ferry network.

Cebu has it all! Gorgeous beaches, island hopping, modern city sights, big festivals, majestic waterfalls, hiking spots, heritage sites, delicious local cuisine and more.

If you have the chance to fly in/out/around the country via Cebu. Go for it! Make sure to spend a couple of days on exploring the city and different places around the island.

Traveling to Cebu for the first time?  This detailed travel guide will make it easy for you to plan a trip, save money, and maximize your time.

Scroll down to read must-know travel tips before you go, followed by a sample itinerary + budget breakdown , recommended hotels/places to stay , things to do/places to visit and lots of extra travel tips.

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How to get to Cebu  — By plane, Cebu can be reached on a one hour flight from Manila. Cebu Airport is a major international gateway and transport hub in the Philippines. It serves direct flights to popular domestic destinations including Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Clark, Palawan, Boracay, Kalibo, Iloilo & more. As well as major cities in Asia. Travel time from Cebu Airport to Downtown Cebu is around 30 minutes (or more during rush hours). Click below to see online prices on airport and city transfers.

Cebu Airport & city transfers

Cebu Airport Private Transfers – for Cebu City, Mactan & more

Cebu-Tagbilaran, Bohol OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Cebu Car Charter – Cebu City/Mactan Private DIY Transport

Book your hotel early  — Grab rock-bottom rates and avoid fully-booked rooms by booking online as soon as you know you’re going. Click below to compare discounts and read reviews by other travelers.

Cheapest rates Best hotel reviews

Check prices online and pre-book discounts  — Save money by checking discounts on tours & airport/hotel transfers. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

See top discounts

Cebu Kawasan Waterfalls & Osmena Peak Day Tour

Olango Island Hopping Join-in or Private Tour

Mactan Island Hopping – Hilutungan, Nalusuan & Pandanon Tour

Spend 3 days or more  — While it’s possible to explore the highlights of the city in a day, consider planning at least 3 days to tour the city and a bit of the province. Go for 5 days for a more relaxed trip. Travel longer if you want to explore nearby islands & provinces.

Bohol Day Tour from Cebu

Discover Cebu Province  — See beautiful nature spots and heritage churches outside the city. There are a lot of beaches, islands, churches, waterfalls and other attractions in North and South Cebu Province.

Moalboal Island Hopping + Canyoneering Join-in Tour from Cebu

Moalboal and Pescador Island Snorkeling Join-in Day Tour from Cebu

Bluewater Sumilon Island Day Pass

Getting around Cebu  — There are a lot of transport and tour options available whether you want to go with a private tour or a do-it-yourself trip. You can even go full local and try the jeepney/bus commute to get around. Or, stick with packaged tours that can offer a hassle-free experience. Grab ride-hailing app is popular in Cebu.

Badian and Kawasan Falls – Cebu/Mactan Shared Shuttle Van

Oslob – Cebu/Mactan Shared Shuttle Van

Moalboal – Cebu/Mactan Shared Shuttle Van

See more blogs & travel guides

Cebu Travel Guide Blog

Cebu itinerary, cebu budget.

Where to Stay in Cebu

Travel Tips Before You Go

Places to Visit in Cebu + Things To Do

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Here’s a suggested itinerary that you can follow on your travel to Metro Cebu (Cebu City & Mactan). Scroll down for the budget and list of expenses. Followed by extra travel tips & top spots to visit/things to do in Cebu.

Day 1: Cebu City tour

Day 2: Mactan tour

Day 3: Continue Cebu city tour

For trips outside of Cebu City & Mactan, simply modify the itinerary above to suit your schedule. For example, if you want to go to Bohol or do the Kawasan Falls Canyoneering / Osmeña Peak trek / Oslob whale watching, you can extend more days to your trip or move the Cebu City and/or Mactan tour on your last day.

Your travel expenses will largely depend on your traveling style and how much you plan to spend on activities, accommodations & food. To help you set your own budget, here are budget estimates if you follow the 3 days and 2 nights (3D2N) itinerary posted above. Make sure to review all discounts & online booking prices.

Prices below are ‘per person’, calculated based on a group of 3 people sharing the travel expenses.

I’ve included backpacker budget estimates for food & accommodations to give you an idea of how cheaply you can do the trip. If you have money to splurge on hotels, food, and luxuries, simply use the expenses posted to calculate your own budget.

Where to Stay in Metro Cebu

Many of the top tourist attractions in Cebu City are located within the Downtown district. Stay here along with the areas near Fuente Osmeña Circle, Capitol Site, and Sergio Osmeña Boulevard if you want a convenient base to explore the city. These places are also close to ferry terminals and South Bus Terminal, perfect for Bohol or South Cebu-bound travelers. In case you want to explore more of the newer districts of Cebu, stay at Lahug, Archbishop Reyes Avenue or Banilad.

Want a room near the beach? You can find a lot of top-class resorts and hotels in Mactan Island. Travel time to Downtown, Cebu City only takes 30 minutes to over 1 hour depending on the traffic flow.

Check discounts See rates

Click below to compare rates on Metro Cebu hotels within your budget.

Top-rated places to stay in Metro Cebu

The Henry Hotel Cebu

Splurge / Banilad

See discounts

Radisson Blu Cebu

Splurge / Near SM City Cebu

Mandarin Plaza Hotel

Mid-Range / Near Ayala Center Cebu

Harolds Hotel

Mid-Range / Lahug

Sampaguita Suites

Budget / Downtown Cebu

Pillows Hotel

Budget / Capitol Site

Tropical Hostel

Budget Backpacker / Mabolo, Cebu City

Food District Hostel

Budget Backpacker / Lahug, Cebu City

Where to book

Book your room through these trusted booking sites. I use them frequently to grab rock-bottom prices & enjoy convenient bookings. Click below to confirm the lowest prices:

Booking.com Airbnb Agoda

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Cebu Travel Tips Before You Go

How to get to cebu, cebu airport to cebu city, how to get around cebu, cebu city to south cebu, cebu city to north cebu, cebu to bohol, mactan beach resort day packages, how to book cheap flights to cebu, should i book my cebu hotel online, pre-book your cebu tours & attraction tickets online.

Cebu-Mactan International Airport is the primary gateway to Cebu. Located 1 hour south of Manila, it serves direct domestic flights from nearly all major airports in the Philippines and international flights from many destinations in Southeast Asia and East Asia. Airlines include Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia, Cathay Pacific, China Eastern Airlines, EVA Air, Korean Air, SilkAir, Tiger Air & more.

In addition, Cebu seaports also serve a wide ferry network to Manila and cities/islands in Visayas and Mindanao regions.

Cebu-Mactan International Airport, located on Mactan Island, is connected to mainland Cebu and Cebu City by bridges. Travel time to the Downtown Cebu takes around 30 minutes or over 1 hour depending on the traffic flow. Taxi fare is usually PHP 400 to PHP 500 per way.

Cebu Airport private transfer

Check price online

Cebu Airport to Cebu City by airport shuttle/multicab/jeepney

MyBus Shuttle offers convenient and affordable transfers to/from Parkmall, SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City and up to Talisay City. Fares start at P20 per person, per way.

By public transport, ride the yellow MI-05a multicab and drop off at M.L. Quezon National Highway near Marina Mall. The fare is PHP 8. Travel time should take less than 10 minutes. Best to tell the driver to drop you off where you can ride a jeep to SM City Cebu.

From Marina Mall, Keep a lookout for jeepney signboards with “SM” on it. The fare is PHP 14. Travel time is 20 minutes or more depending on traffic. To get to Colon from the jeepney terminal in SM, ride a jeepney with “Labangon” on the signboard.

If you are headed to the airport, you can find the yellow airport multicabs near the Island Souvenir shop at Marina Mall.

Use Grab for short rides within Metro Cebu or to/from the airport. Remember, taking the jeepney and local buses are cheaper but consume a lot more time. Use local transport if you are not in a hurry.

The best way to maximize your trip is to charter a car/taxi for your sightseeing tour. Typical rates for a car w/ driver, for up to 4 people should be around PHP 3,000 to 5,000 per car per day. Van/shuttles that can seat up to 10 or more people cost from PHP 4,000+ per shuttle per day.

Cebu private car charter

Cebu Airport to Cebu City by ferry

This is the scenic route between Mactan and Cebu City. It’s one of the cheap thrills in Cebu that I always look forward to enjoying when I’m not in a hurry.

From Cebu Airport, ride the yellow airport multicab all the way to Opon Public Market. Tell the driver that you’re headed to Muelle Osmeña wharf so he can drop you off nearby and give you some directions. The fare is P10. Travel time is around 15 minutes. From Opon Public Market, walk towards the Virgen dela Regla National Shrine (church). You can find Muelle Osmeña wharf just behind the church.

Ride the Cebu-Mactan ferry, which arrives at Pier 3, Cebu City. The fare is P14. The crossing takes around 15 minutes. From Pier 3, you can easily find jeepneys to Colon area or hail a taxi to your hotel.

Downtown Cebu to Sirao / Busay

Headed to the Sirao flower garden, Temple of Leah, TOPS and Taoist Temple? A cheap option to get there is to ride a habal-habal or motorcycle taxi from JY Mall. One-way fare from JY Square Mall to Temple of Leah should cost PHP 50 to PHP 75. Charter rate for all 4 sites should cost PHP 1,000 including waiting time.

Take note that way up is quite steep and the habal-habal might not be the safest way to go. I highly recommend the taxi or car charter instead, especially if you are traveling in a group.

JY Square Mall is located at Salinas Drive, Cebu City. To get there by jeepney, you can ride the “04L” route from University of San Carlos main campus along Panthaleon del Rosario Street (near Elizabeth Mall or E-Mall / Osmeña Street).

Head to the South Bus Terminal for buses to Southern Cebu Province and Dumaguete. Including Oslob, Dalaguete (Osmeña Peak), Moalboal & Badian (Kawasan Falls). The South Bus Terminal is located along Natalio B. Bacalso Avenue, beside Elizabeth Mall or E-Mall.

Better yet, get a car charter or shared shuttle transfer (with hotel pick-up) to maximize your time.

Cebu City to Oslob shuttle van

Cebu City to Badian & Kawasan Falls shuttle van

Buses to Northern Cebu Province depart from the North Bus Terminal. Transit here if you are headed to Bantayan (via Hagnaya Port), Malapascua (via Maya Port), Toledo or Bacolod (via Toledo/San Carlos).

Cebu City to Hagnaya Port shuttle van (for Bantayan Island)

Cebu City to Maya Port shuttle van (for Malapascua Island and Kalanggaman Island)

Cebu City to Danao shuttle van (for Camotes Island)

Most ferries to Bohol depart from Pier 1 in Cebu City. Travel time by fastcraft (fast ferry) to Tagbilaran pier is 2 hours. You can also ride the 1 hour and 30 minutes fastcraft ferry to Tubigon pier and travel to Chocolate Hills, Tagbilaran or Panglao by land.

Cebu-Bohol ferry ticket

Many beachfront resorts in Mactan Island offer day tour packages for travelers who want to enjoy the beach or pool but are not staying as a guest overnight.

Here’s a list of popular Mactan beach resort and their day use rates. Contact the resort directly to confirm current rates.

Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu

From PHP 2,000 per adult. Inclusive of:

Free use of the swimming pool, beach, game room and gym.

Rates for weekday (PHP2,000 nett) and weekend (PHP2,500 nett) include lunch buffet at The Sails, and premium rate (PHP2,800 nett) include 15-course Balearic dinner at Ibiza Beach Club.

One (1) scoop of Mövenpick ice cream at the Lobby lounge.

A 15% discount at Spa del Mar and on all water sports activities Guests who wish to extend their stay can also enjoy a 50% discount on themed dinner buffet at The Sails restaurant (valid on the same date of stay) and a special rate of PHP 1,500 nett per person for Deluxe Twin Room from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm (subject to availability)

Check room rates

Plantation Bay Resort & Spa

Lunch and choice of drink

Lagoons and swimming pools

Wall climbing at selected hours

30-minute use of bicycles

15-minute use of non-motorized aqua sports facilities (nips floater or kayak)

Foosball, air hockey, and table tennis

Shower and changing facilities

Solea Mactan Cebu Resort

From PHP 1,800 per adult. Inclusive of:

Lunch buffet on weekends. P500 worth of consumable food on weekdays.

Entrance fee

Use of the pool facilities with complimentary use of sunbeds

Free use of public shower room

Cebu White Sands Resort and Spa

From PHP 900 per adult. P500 worth of consumable food on weekdays. PHP 1,200.00 on weekends with lunch buffet.

Maribago Blue Water Beach Resort

From PHP 2,000 per person on weekdays or PHP 2,500 on weekends. Inclusive of lunch buffet & 1 drink.

Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark

From PHP 2,500 per person inclusive of lunch buffet. Formerly Imperial Palace Resort and Water Park.

Crimson Resort and Spa

From PHP 2,000 per person. Inclusive of lunch buffet.

Be Resort Mactan

From PHP 999 per person. Inclusive of set lunch.

If you are flying to within the next 2-3 months, the general rule to spend less on flights is by booking sooner rather than later. In case you are booking well ahead of your trip, keep a lookout for airline promo fares & seat sales.

The easy way to find cheap flights that you can book right now is to use flight search engines. These sites compare prices on different airlines to show you the cheapest prices. Check multiple flight search engines listed below:

Skyscanner Wego

Always check promo fares before booking. Visit the airlines’ official website, mobile app, Facebook, Twitter & other social media accounts for updates.

You can also check the latest promo alerts posted here on Detourista. Click below to start:

AirAsia Promo

Cebu Pacific Promo

Philippine Airlines Promo

Subscribe to the email alerts to save time from checking many websites frequently.

Get FREE promo updates sent directly by email. Don’t miss the next one!

To learn more, visit the guide on  how to book cheap flights .

I often book online to enjoy discounts and cashless convenience during my actual trip. Always check prices of tours and attraction tickets on these booking sites:

Prices are often cheaper than booking on-site. Huge discounts on many activities.

Maximize your trip! Avoid wasting time queueing at ticket booths & shopping for tours.

Get a good idea what to expect. Knowing all the inclusions/non-inclusions & reading user reviews is very helpful to make an informed decision.

Earn rewards points for every booking.

Pay in your home currency. Worry less about bringing cash/exchanging currencies.

If you’re booking tours and you’ve already finalized your travel dates, book early, especially if you are traveling with family/friends to lock-in those open slots for everyone in your group.

Extra travel discounts!

Click below to view the latest promo codes. Enjoy extra savings on top of existing discounts:

Klook Promo

Check out these top tourist spots, best places to visit & things to do in Cebu.

1. Tour Downtown Cebu

5. see metro cebu highlands, 2. enjoy mactan’s beaches & islands, 3. adventure in south cebu, 4. visit north cebu islands & beaches, 6. shopping in cebu, 7. taste cebu food.

Cebu is the first Spanish settlement, oldest city, and the first capital of the Philippines. Visit surviving Spanish-colonial heritage sites, most of which can be found within the downtown area and can be easily explored on foot. Don’t miss the triangular Fort San Pedro, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño church, Magellan’s Cross, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral and old houses that have been turned into museums.

Take a short drive from the center to the highlands of Metro Cebu. Here, you can enjoy sweeping overlooking views and cool spots to visit including the Tops Skyline Garden, Temple Of Leah, Taoist Temple & flower farms/gardens in Sirao. There are also many restaurants, cafes and hotels with a view in this area.

Top Cebu tour packages & discounts

Cebu – Mactan Half-Day Private Tour

Cebu City Half-Day Private Tour

Mactan’s beaches are one the best things about Cebu. It’s a mere bridge crossing away from the city or a 15-minute drive from the airport! Mactan Island is lined with many white sand beaches and luxury resorts worth the splurge. From here, you can go island hopping to more beaches, islands and snorkeling spots nearby.

Top Mactan tour packages & discounts

See discounts See discounts

Mactan 3 in 1 Water Activities – Parasailing, Jetski, Banana Boat

Mactan Island Parasailing

Mactan Island Jet Ski Experience

There is no shortage of destinations to go outside the capital city. Cebu’s southern towns are famous for its adventure-filled spots & scenic beaches. Go canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, hike to Osmeña Peak, see the whale sharks in Oslob, experience the sardine run & beaches in Moalboal. Almost every town is also home to well-preserved Spanish-colonial churches and heritage sites.

Top South Cebu tour packages & discounts

Badian Canyoneering Admission with Guide

Badian Canyoneering Adventure and Kawasan Waterfalls Join-in Day Tour from Cebu

North Cebu is home to many of the province’s most beautiful islands, beaches, and diving spots. Don’t miss Bantayan Island, Malapascua Island and Camotes Islands.

Some of the Philippines’ and Asia’s biggest shopping malls can be found in Cebu including SM Seaside City Cebu, Ayala Center Cebu, Robinsons Galleria Cebu and SM City Cebu. For a more local feed, shop at Taboan Public Market for pasalubong/souvenirs.

Don’t leave without trying food in Cebu. The most popular dish for tourists is Lechon (roasted suckling pig). You can taste the best at CnT Lechon, Zubuchon, Alejo’s and Carcar Public Market. Aside from lechon, bring home dried mangoes, otap, danggit (dried fish) & other Cebu delicacies as pasalubong.

Where to go near Cebu

9. kalanggaman island, 10. negros & siquijor, 11. central and south philippines.

Ferry crossing to Bohol only takes 2 hours from the heart of Cebu City. Here, you can find the famous Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers & White Sand Beaches of Panglao Island.

Top Bohol tour packages & discounts

Top Kalanggaman Island tour packages & discounts

Kalanggaman Island Day Tour from Cebu

Venture to Dumaguete, which is less than an hour away by ferry from Santander, the southernmost town of Cebu Province. From here, you can jump-off to the mystical island of Siquijor, swim with sea turtles in Apo Island and explore the natural spots of Negros Island.

Cebu offers direct ferry and flight links to other major destinations in the Philippines. Including, Palawan, Boracay, Davao, Surigao/Siargao, Iloilo, Bacolod, Leyte, Samar, Davao, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Camiguin & Zamboanga.

Don’t Stop Here

Did you find this travel guide helpful? Share your Cebu experience & tag #detourista. Follow trip updates on: Instagram , Facebook & Pinterest .

Check out these pages for more travel inspiration beyond Cebu:

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July 17, 2017 at 2:13 pm

lechon is a must but if you are into exotic dishes, try tuslob buwa (pig’s brain) plus puso (hanging rice). locals loved it.

September 15, 2017 at 2:59 pm

Hi, first of all what a great guide. This is definitely a must-see.

But, the thing is me and my family are planning to go to Cebu and we were wondering what is the best month to travel there? I mean, low tourists and the air fare cost is low also. Thanks!

September 16, 2017 at 11:01 am

Thanks Judith, try the months of November, February, late May or early June.

October 19, 2017 at 2:37 pm

I love reading your very informative blog about your trip in Cebu. If you ever visit the City again, I highly recommend checking these places out for a different kind of peaceful experience in the Queen City of the South. http://zeelifestylecebu.com/perfect-places-to-see-meteor-shower-in-cebu/

October 31, 2017 at 9:34 pm

Hi, i love reading your blog. This would help a lot since we’re planning to go to cebu this November. Got much ideas on where to go. :) May i know where should we get and rent a car with driver in Cebu? So that the tour would be smoother and easier for us? Thank you so.much!

November 17, 2017 at 10:21 pm

Thank you Marie.

For a safe & hassle free ride, click here to see car charter rates in Cebu .

Enjoy your trip!

December 3, 2017 at 2:56 pm

You just got me super excited planning my trip to Cebu! !!

Thanks for sharing!

December 13, 2017 at 8:41 am

Wow Marcos! This is the best guide I’ve ever seen. What I like the most is that you gave the budget accommodation type for backpackers and the discount code. Thank you for sharing. I want to read more other posts of you. Cheers!

April 26, 2018 at 6:09 pm

Thank you for these information. Wohoo Lechon is the best! am really enjoying reading all of them! how much more if i will be experiencing all of those stuffs! Most especially that summer is here this would be a great help in order for us to have our summer getaway!

February 10, 2020 at 7:23 pm

Wow naman totoo,…… Sana makapunta Rin ako diyan sa Cebu

June 26, 2018 at 8:25 am

Hello. I enjoyed your description og Cebu, where my fiancé still for a little while. Can you tell me about the cost in Cebu airport. There is a departure fee. How much is it, and are there other mandatory costs in the airport? Thank you. Kim

July 15, 2018 at 6:03 pm

Hi info on Cebu Terminal Fee is posted on this page: https://www.detourista.com/guide/philippine-airports-cheatsheet/ Enjoy!

July 26, 2018 at 1:26 pm

Thank you for this detailed itinerary. Very useful for our trip to CEBU next year.

December 21, 2019 at 7:14 pm

I have been to Philippines and it’s really a wonderful place to travel. It’s cheap, especially beer! Love to come back for more. I love Asian people, they are very friendly. Met a lot of friends.

April 6, 2020 at 3:36 pm

i remember going to Cebu city for a vacation. we tried cebu food and loved it!

May 13, 2020 at 7:52 am

I am not saying Kawasan is not pretty, it is but it is so touristy that it’s hardly enjoyable. If you don’t go very early morning, forget about it! There are much nicer waterfalls in the Moalboal area, like Cambais Falls. Less touristy.

June 17, 2020 at 5:28 pm

we’ve been to larshian’s last 2019 and it’s a bomb. cebu food trip s never fail to amaze us. such incredible food!

September 17, 2022 at 8:53 am

Love your post, thanks for this lovely and informative guide for Cebu. This surely will help lots of travellers planning to come to Cebu!

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Cebu travel blog — The fullest Cebu island travel guide for a great trip on a budget to Cebu for the first-timers

Referring to the Philippines, people will immediately think of El Nido (Palawan province), otherwise Boracay, the most beautiful and famous island in this island nation with more than 7.100 large and small islands. But Cebu Island, with the second largest city in the Philippines, after Manila, has its own interesting, wonderful destinations and is no less than El Nido or Boracay. Bantayan Island with beautiful style of fish feeding is not inferior to Southern Sea of Thailand, Bohol with Tasier – Earth’s smallest primate species, Oslob – one of the few swimming spots watching whale shark in the world … are these such destinations! Now, let’s explore Cebu, the “Southern Queen” of the Philippines through our Cebu travel blog (Cebu blog, Cebu island blog, Cebu island travel blog) with the fullest Cebu island travel guide (Cebu island guide) for a great trip on a budget to Cebu for the first time from how to get to Cebu, best time to visit, where to stay… to top things to do in Cebu, what to eat… below.

• Philippines itinerary 9 days — Suggested itinerary for 9 days in Philippines explore: El Nido – Coron – Cebu
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If you have traveled to El Nido or Boracay and want to return to the Philippines, or are simply looking for additional locations for your Philippine itinerary, to have more experiences, then you must definitely choose Cebu!

Cebu guide: When is the best time to visit Cebu?

Cebu is much less affected by storms than other Philippines islands, but you should not go in the rainy season.

• Peak season: From December to April is the dry season for most parts of the Philippines. The best time to travel is from December to February, the coolest and most pleasant days here.
• Middle season: May and November. May is the beginning of the rainy season and November is the beginning of the peak tourist season in the Philippines.
• Low season: From June to September there are many consecutive rainy days, often the hotel price decreases by 30%.

Cebu travel blog: Getting around Cebu

The quickest way to get to Cebu is by plane, you will have to transit at Manila Airport (Ninoy Aquino Interational Airport / NAIA), and from there fly to Cebu Airport (Mactan Airport) on Mactan Island with the airfare of about USD29.99 of the airlines such as Cebu Pacific or Tiger Air. Or catch a taxi or coach to get to Cebu.

The distance between Cebu city and Mactan Island is about 40km, you will take more than half an hour to get there if traveling by car, but if you are not too hurry, you can travel on the waves by catch a boat to Cebu Island, however this way slower than if you go by car.

Called bus but not used to travel in the city center like in other cities, or from one district to another, but used to travel destinations far from the city center, like coach/shuttle bus in Vietnam.

How to catch a bus in Cebu to travel between destinations?

Departure: Buses run from 2 terminals ( South Bus Terminal and North Bus Terminal ). Just come here to catch a bus, no need to book tickets in advance. Depending on the destination you want to go in the North or South on the island to go to the corresponding terminal.

Return: Stand anywhere, as long as along the main road, find the bus write Cebu word, then wave it. There is no need to stand at the right stop point, but there is no stop point to stand.

It is best to be at the bus terminal before 5:00AM to when you arrive is catch a bus right. If you haven’t come to the Philippines yet, you can’t imagine how crowded the bus terminal scene is. However, the people are very conscious, no matter how crowded, how long they wait, there is no jostle. People are line up and orderly.

In Cebu, you should choose the Ceres Liner bus company, bus is painted yellow. This bus has air conditioning, free wifi.

Grab Taxi can be used in the Philippines. In Cebu, I often go to the street to catch a taxi, in Manila, thanks to the hotel receptionist or a security staff call. There is no way to call up the taxi company call center like Vietnam.

From Manila Airport

If you take a flight to Manila early in the morning between from 4AM to 6AM, take a taxi to the city is quite easily. But if you come in the day, either choose Grab or White Taxi (more expensive, fixed price, do not turn on the meter), do not choose Yellow Taxi (cheap, turn on the meter, but wait for your turn is super long, average you have to spend 3 hours for waiting). Grab, white taxi and yellow taxi are divided into 3 separate areas outside of the arrival terminal of Manila airport, when you step out of the arrival terminal you will find.

From Cebu Mactan Airport

Choose a white taxi, DO NOT CHOOSE YELLOW TAXI (double price, my bitter experience).

In Manila/Cebu

Take a taxi in the Philippines, you just ask the driver to turn on the meter, especially in Manila, the taxi drivers either don’t turn it on or ask for more money. So you go on asking, or else choose another taxi, there’s no need to go! In Cebu I never had to ask for a meter to turn on, the driver also did not ask pay more money.

Motorbike taxi

Yes! But not professional motorbike taxi. Motorcycles are not popular in the Philippines. But if you like to ride a motorbike, and if you see whoever runs a motorbike, you can wave him and ask for a price and riding. My experience is that anyone with a motorbike in the Philippines is willing to become a motorcycle taxi.

Popular means of transportation on Cebu Island are Rickshaw, Bus, Taxi, Jeepney. According to our Cebu Island travel guide, we recommend choosing a Jeepney to visit the famous tourist attractions in Cebu. A pretty interesting experience. Jeepney vehicles operating like buses also have stops, this is a pretty interesting means of transportation in the Philippines, you should try it. However there is a small note at the bottom when using this vehicle.

A few notes when traveling by public transport in Cebu in particular and the Philippines in general.

The first is CROWDED! You can spend up to 2 to 3 hours to catch a taxi or bus in the Philippines, whether at the bus stop or the airport or the pier. In Cebu, I often to stand outside the main road to take a taxi, the rush hour is from 6PM to 7PM and have to wait 45 minutes to find an empty taxi is normal.

The second is NOT SAFE! If you go by Jeepney! Colorful Jeepneys have become a culture feature in the Philippines, but it’s not safe if you go to alone, or bring valuable items. Because, normally your bag can be slashed, more seriously, a gun can be put on your body. So if you want to experience Jeepney, it’s ok, but please left all your belongings at home, only bring some coins and get on a Jeepney.

These are a few negative points, the remain we see the travel, moving in the Philippines is OK.

Cebu blog: Where to stay?

There are many hotels, guesthouses and resorts in Cebu. You can easily find a guesthouse right there or search online. With a few dollars you have a comfortable room to lie on. If you want to be more luxurious? Great mid-range and upscale hotels are ready to serve and you don’t have to pay too much. Hotel room rates and budget guesthouses on Cebu Island range from USD12.85 to USD64.27/night. And luxury hotels cost from USD85.69 to USD214.23/night. Prices may vary by season.

Below are some best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu (Address: Nivel Hills, Cebu Veterans Dr, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 253 1111), a 4-star hotel with room rates from $50/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Quest Hotel and Conference Center – Cebu (Address: Archbishop Reyes Ave, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 402 5999), a 3-star hotel with room rates from $50/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Radisson Blu Cebu (Address: Serging Osmena Boulevard, Corner Pope John Paul II Ave, Cebu City, 6000, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 505 1700), a 5-star hotel with room rates from $130/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Best Western Plus Lex Cebu (Address: Juana Osmeña Extension Road, Lungsod ng Cebu, 6000 Lalawigan ng Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 416 5511), a 4-star hotel with room rates from $58/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Red Planet Cebu (Address: 36 Archbishop Reyes Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 232 0888), a 3-star hotel with room rates from $31/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Henry Hotel Cebu (Address: Paseo Saturnino, Cebu City, 6014 Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 520 8877), a 4-star hotel with room rates from $54/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

ABC Hotel & Homes (Address: 107 F. Ramos St, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 412 8788), a 3-star hotel with room rates from $24/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Harolds Hotel (Address: C. Rosal St, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 917 711 8828), a 3-star hotel with room rates from $58/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Mad Monkey Hostel Cebu City (Address: 79 Echavez St, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 231 0370), a hostel with room rates from $11/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino (Address: Salinas Dr, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 232 6888), a 4-star hotel with room rates from $69/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Montebello Villa Hotel (Address: Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Apas, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines / Phone: +63 32 231 3681), a 4-star hotel with room rates from $45/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find more, check rates, availability & book for Cebu hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Cebu island travel guide: Best places to visit and top things to do in Cebu Island

The north of cebu, camotes islands.

The first destination is the Camotes Islands. Camotes islands include 3 main islands: Poro, Pacijan and Ponson. Poro and Pacijan are two main islands, connected by a concrete bridge with mangrove forests on both sides of the road. The other island, Ponson, is little known, as it is located quite far from the other two islands, and there is no direct boat from Cebu. The main activities in the Camotes Islands are diving, sea jumping, visiting Danao Lake (lake of mistress), including pedal duck games, waterfall … or participating in exploring caves and impressive stalactites at Bukilat in Tudela island. You can spend 2 days 1 night to explore Camotes islands.

Getting to Camotes Islands

Option 1: You should depart from early morning for less crowded. From downtown Cebu take a taxi to the North Bus Terminal, tell the bus driver to Danao Port (to go to Camotes Islands). From here, the bus runs about an hour will reach Danao port, buy boat tickets to Camotes. The boat runs about 1 hour and 30 minutes is reach Pacijan Island. Bus tickets without air-conditioned: 40 Peso, quite cheap; 210 Peso for boat ticket.

Option 2: From the center of Cebu take a taxi to Pier 1 (Cebu port), getting on the Golden Express to depart to Poro town (the boat runs at 5:30PM, the ticket is 380 Peso, travel time: 2 hours). This boat departs from Poro to Cebu at 6AM.

Getting around Camotes

The main means of transport in Camotes islands is motorbikes, the rental price is 400 Peso/day.

Eating and staying

There is no luxury restaurant, no fast food, no 24 hour convenience store in Camotes island, so keep going on the road and find where to sell food and then drop in. Tourist spots also sell food.

On the accommodation, we recommended to stay in Santiago Bay Beach , or stay in Santiago Bay Garden & Resort with budget room rates, and look straight to the Santiago Sea – the most beautiful beach in Camotes Islands, awesome!

Otherwise, staying in a homestay, if you go with large group, it is reasonable and 2 people are not much cheaper than resort.

Bantayan Island

The next destination is the beautiful island of Bantayan. Brief introduction, Bantayan belongs to the top 10 most beautiful islands and beaches in the Philippines. According to CNN’s Travel section, Bantayan ranked 5th (in the article: The Philippines’ best beaches and islands – 2014). According to Lonely Planet book, those who are looking for a place to lazy lie on the beaches will love Bantayan. Without activities such as snorkeling, diving, rafting, or volcanoes climbing, this island in northeastern Cebu has only sunny beaches with countless food stalls and beer shops.

The island’s capital is Santa Fe town, located in the south of the island, where you can choose resorts and beaches that are not too noisy. If you intend to go to Bantayan on the occasion of the Filipinos like Holy Week, Easter … remember to book hotel in advance and come from early!

Getting to Bantayan island

Because Bantayan Island is located in the north of Cebu, so from Cebu city you can take a taxi to the North Bus Terminal. From here, take the bus to Port Hagnaya, travel time about 3 hours, price for 132 Peso/way. At Hagnaya port, you buy a boat ticket to Bantayan Island (to Santa Fe port) for 170 Peso/way. After 1 hour sit on boat, you will reach super beautiful Bantayan island!

Getting around Bantayan island

Similar to Camotes islands and other small Philippine islands, motorcycles are the main means of transportation. Anyone who likes to explore the island, just rent a motorbike, the price is the same as in Camotes with rental price of 350 Peso/day.

What to do in Bantayan?

Continued reading…

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Cebu Travel Guide 2023: Itinerary, Budget, Things to Do, Tourist Spots, Nightlife, Internet, More

• May 13, 2023
• June 19, 2023

Traveling to Cebu, Philippines soon? This CEBU TRAVEL GUIDE 2023 is the only manual you need to walk you through your trip to one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines .

Cebu is the most visited tourist destination in the Philippines. There’s no surprise, though. 

Cebu is home to many crystal-clear white-sand beaches, scenic islands, breathtaking waterfalls, rich marine ecosystems, verdant natural landscapes, and so many unique things to do.

WHAT'S IN THIS POST?

Your Ultimate Cebu Travel Guide

Having explored Cebu for years as a digital nomad before settling down here, I’m in the best position to create this most detailed and up-to-date CEBU TRAVEL GUIDE 2023 .

At the end of this CEBU TRAVEL GUIDE 2023 , you should have a pretty good idea about the following:

• Best time to go to Cebu
• How to get to Cebu
• Getting around Cebu
• Best things to do
• Best tourist spots
• How to get there
• Where to stay
• What to eat
• Where to eat
• Internet in Cebu
• Cebu nightlife
• Cebu itinerary
• Cebu budget

Exploring Cebu can be a bit complex and requires thorough planning since this island province is big, or rather there are so many worthy things to do in Cebu . In all honesty, a week won’t suffice to see all the best of Cebu .

Don’t fret, though. I have prepared so many Cebu guides and itineraries for you.

I will link them along the way so you can easily check them out. I will throw some travel tips here and there too to let you in on how locals do it.

Best Time to Visit Cebu

The best time to visit Cebu depends on what you want to do and what you want to experience. In general, there’s no bad time to visit Cebu.

As a tropical country, we have sunny days throughout the year, so visiting any time of the year should not be a cause of major concern. But if you want to understand how our weather works and what events are there you can enjoy, here are some answers to your questions.

When is Cebu’s peak season?

Cebu’s peak season is in January due to the annual Sinulog Festival , the biggest religious festival in the Philippines. A few days leading up to the festival, which happens on the 3rd Sunday of January , most hotels are fully booked. Booking flights and ferry trips to Cebu closer to the festival day can also get a little bit difficult too.

December is also another peak season in the Philippines in general. It’s common for Filipinos from abroad, as well as those who live/work in the city, to go back to their hometown to celebrate the holiday season. Typically, this phenomenon happens between December 15 and January 1 .

It’s important to note also that Cebu is a jump-off point to other provinces in the Philippines, and that’s why it’s dubbed “the gateway to a thousand journeys. Expect flights and ferry trips to get fully booked for a few days around Christmas time. In fact, in December 2022, I was not able to go back to my hometown for Christmas because all direct flights and ferry trips were booked.

What months are typhoons in Cebu?

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) , almost 70% of typhoons in the Philippines exist from July to October . 

Note that transportation, especially airplanes and ferries, is highly dependent on the weather. In the worst-case scenario, you might experience canceled trips due to unfavorable weather conditions.

What is the weather like in Cebu?

The Philippines has two seasons: rainy (tag-ulan) and summer (tag-init) seasons. However, the weather in the Philippines can be tricky and could throw a curveball on your travel plans no matter what.

For example, when it’s rainy season, it doesn’t mean it’s not sunny and hot anymore. In the same way, when it’s summer season, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t rain.

In Cebu, April is the driest month of the year. May is the warmest month with an average temperature of 26.8°C or 80.3°F. Meanwhile, January is the coldest, with an average temperature of 25.0°C or 77.0°F.

If you want to avoid the rainy season, October is the wettest month in Cebu. Do note that even in the driest month, rain can still be expected.

What is the best month to visit Cebu?

The best month to visit Cebu is between March and May. Summer in the Philippines usually begins in the later part of March until the end of May. This means these are the driest and hottest months of the year in the Philippines.

Most websites would recommend months between December to May. I wouldn’t necessarily object. However, I need to remind you that December is still pretty rainy and “stormy.” In fact, many of the most destructive typhoons in the Philippines happened in December.

January to the first half of March is generally okay. But expect that there would still be rain here and there.

Driest and hottest don’t mean it’s always the best option. Do note that the summer days during these months can be unbearably hot for people who are not used to this scorching hot climate.

For locals who have been living in the Philippines all their lives, you might think these months are bearable for us. False! It’s a nuisance for a lot of us.

We navigate through these hottest months by going to the mall, swimming at the nearest pools or beach, or staying indoors where there’s air conditioning or a fan.

What do you wear in Cebu?

Breathable clothes made from materials like cotton, linen, silk, and bamboo are best for hot and humid weather in the Philippines. While it’s generally hot in Cebu throughout the year with a mean annual temperature of 27.1°C or 80.78°F, you can trust that your light clothes throughout the years.

There are “cold” places in the Philippines but nothing crazy. For example, the coldest city in the Philippines is Baguio in Benguet. Baguio City’s average annual temperature is 20.6 °C or 69.0 °F. If you come from a cold region, that should be bearable for you for sure.

How Many Days Is Enough in Cebu?

Seven days would be enough to explore the best of Cebu , including Moalboal, Badian, Oslob, Bantayan Island, and Malapascua Island. If you want to explore the depths of Cebu, I recommend spending at least 14 days to experience all the world-class attractions it offers.

If you are still planning for your trip to Cebu, check out our Cebu Itinerary for 7 Days and 6 Nights and explore more itineraries .

Which Part of Cebu Is Best to Stay?

If you are a digital nomad who needs a reliable internet connection every day, it’s better to stay in Cebu City. Popular tourist spots in Cebu are 2-4 hours bus ride away from Cebu City.

In Cebu City, you may stay in the Fuente Osmeña Circle or Mango Avenue (officially known as General Maxilom Avenue) area if you want to get close to Mango, Cebu’s well-known red-light district, as well as Cebu’s heritage sites such as Fort Santiago and Magellan’s Cross.

Also, Cebu IT Park and Cebu Business Park are great well-maintained CBDs that have pretty much everything you need around such as a gym, coffee shops, fast food restaurants, hotels, malls, and public transportation.

If you are looking for an island party type of vibe, Moalboal is the best place. However, the internet and mobile signal in Moalboal is pretty unreliable.

If you are looking for rest and relaxation away from the city, Bantayan Island and Malapascua Island are great options. These islands have a pretty good internet connection and mobile signal now.

How to Get to Cebu

There are two ways to go to Cebu: by plane and by ferry. Depending on where you come from in the Philippines, your only option might either be a plane or ferry. If you are coming overseas, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) serves various international flights. Find out all the details below!

Air travel is the most convenient way to get to Cebu. The travel time to Cebu from most destinations is only 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.

All flights to Cebu land at MCIA located in Lapu-Lapu City (still part of Cebu Province). To get to Cebu City, you need to take a taxi or an airport bus.

Local Flights to Cebu

The local airlines that land at Mactan-Cebu International Airport include Philippines Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, AirJuan, and AirSwift. Here’s a list of flights to Cebu and vice versa:

• Angeles City, Pampanga
• Baguio City, Benguet
• Bantayan Island, Cebu (via AirJuan only)
• Busuanga, Palawan (Coron)
• Butuan City, Agusan del Norte
• Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental
• Calbayog City, Samar
• Caticlan, Aklan (Boracay)
• Davao City, Davao del Sur
• Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte
• Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental
• El Nido, Palawan (via AirSwift only)
• General Santos City, South Cotabato
• Iloilo City
• Kalibo, Aklan
• Legazpi City, Albay
• Ozamis City, Misamis Occidental
• Pagadian, Zamboanga del Sur
• Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• Siargao, Surigao del Norte
• Silay City, Negros Occidental
• Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
• Tacloban City, Leyte
• Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur

International Flights to Cebu

The international airlines that land at Mactan-Cebu International Airport include Air Busan, Asiana Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Emirates, EVA Air, Jeju Air, Jin Air, Lucky Air, Scoot, Sichuan Airlines, Silk Air, TigerAir, T’way Air, and XiamenAir. Here’s a list of international flights to Cebu and vice versa:

• Busan, South Korea
• Seoul, South Korea
• Shanghai, China
• Taipei, Taiwan

Ferries are a cheaper alternative to airplanes. Several ferries go to several different parts of Cebu. Ferries to Cebu City dock at Cebu Pier.

The travel time of ferries depends on how far your destination is. It could be just 30 minutes or 3 hours or 10 hours or even 2 days and 1 night if you come from Manila.

From Cebu Pier, you need to take a taxi to North Cebu Bus Terminal or South Cebu Bus Terminal, depending on where your next destination is.

Here’s a list of ferry trips that dock at Cebu Pier in Cebu City:

• Butuan City
• Tagbilaran City
• Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte
• Iligan City, Lanao del Norte
• Iloilo City, Iloilo
• Baybay City
• Maasin City
• Manila (via 2Go only)
• Masbate City, Masbate
• Naval, Biliran
• Poro, Camotes Islands
• Calbayog City
• Catbalogan City

Getting Around Cebu

Getting around Cebu is pretty easy if you know the basics. In Cebu City and neighboring cities, the main mode of transportation are jeepneys, taxis, and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis). There are also buses that transport passengers to certain parts of Metro Cebu. If you are not comfortable with public transportation, use the ride-hailing app Grab (an Uber counterpart) for taxis or Angkas or JoyRide for habal-habal.

When going to islands like Bantayan Island and Camotes Island , you need to take a ferry. To get to smaller islands like Malapascua Island and Sumilon Island , you need to take a bangka (outrigger boat). In smaller towns and islands, tricycles are the most common mode of transportation. However, you can also rent a scooter for 300-500 PHP (~6-10 USD) per day. There are car rentals and chartered vehicles with a driver to take you around Cebu.

Cebu Tourist Destinations to Visit

From stunning islands and white sand beaches to adventure parks and fun outdoor activities , Cebu has it all. If you are wondering where to go, what to do, and how to get there, here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 tourist destinations in Cebu:

1. Moalboal

Moalboal is one of the best places to go in Cebu. This small resort town is known for its various diving and snorkeling spots.

Some of Moalboal’s underwater wonders include millions of sardines, large green sea turtles, live coral reefs, a mermaid statue, and even giant whale sharks. Moalboal also has a vibrant local nightlife.

If you are looking for a complete travel guide to Moalboal, check out our Moalboal Travel Guide !

Things to Do in Moalboal

• Swim with millions of sardines and large green sea turtles at Panagsama Beach
• Freedive the mermaid statue at Panagsama Beach
• Dive or snorkel at Pescador Island
• Camp at White Beach
• Party on weekends

For more details, check out the Top Things to Do in Moalboal !

Moalboal Tourist Spots

• Basdaku or White Beach
• Basdiot or Panagsama Beach
• Pescador Island
• Mushroom Rock
• Archery Asia
• Orchid Gallery

How to Get to Moalboal from Cebu City

To get to Moalboal from Cebu City, take a Ceres Liner bus at Cebu South Bus Terminal or a van for hire (v-hire) at SM Seaside. Fare is 200 PHP (~4 USD) for bus and 220 PHP (~4.5 USD) for v-hire. Travel time is about 3 hours. Read How to Get to Moalboal from Cebu City, Cebu Airport, Oslob, Bantayan Island, Dumaguete, and more.

You can also charter a private vehicle to take you to Moalboal from Cebu City or Mactan Airport. Book your Private Intercity Transfer here !

Where to Stay in Moalboal

• Pawikan Boutique Hotel – Best Midscale Resort in Moalboal ( Check room rates! )
• Maayong Hostel – Best Hostel in Moalboal ( Check room rates! )
• Tauig Beach Resort – Best Beach Resort in White Beach, Moalboal ( Check room rates! )
• Chef Mau Hostel ( Check room rates! )
• Sambag Hideaway Bungalows ( Check room rates! )

For more details, check out the Best Moalboal Resorts .

Badian is Moalboal’s neighboring tourist town known for Kawasan Falls and canyoneering activities. Although tourists mostly visit the town for the famous Kawasan Falls and canyoneering, Badian has more wonderful tourist spots you should visit.

If you are looking for a South Cebu itinerary for 2 days covering Moalboal and Badian, check out our South Cebu Itinerary for 2 Days !

Things to Do in Badian

• Canyoneer from Canlaob River to Kawasan Falls
• Zipline at Zip Stream Aerial Adventures
• Play golf at Cebu International Gold and Resort
• Watch glorious sunsets at Malabago Curvada
• Swim at Kansanto Spring
• Do various water activities at Eskapo Verde Resort

Badian Tourist Spots

• Kawasan Falls
• Lambug Beach
• Badian Island
• Badian Highlands
• Dapdap’s Floating Cottages

For more details, check out the Badian Tourist Spots !

How to Get to Badian from Cebu City

To get to Badian from Cebu City, take a Ceres Liner bus at Cebu South Bus Terminal. Fare is 250 PHP (~5 USD). Travel time is about 3 hours and 30 minutes. Learn How to Get to Badian from Cebu City, Cebu Airport, Oslob, and Dumaguete.

You can also charter a private vehicle to take you to Badian from Cebu City or Mactan Airport. Book your Private Intercity Transfer here !

Where to Stay in Badian

• Badian Island Wellness Resort – Best Luxury Resort in Badian ( Check room rates! )
• Soul Travellers Dagatan Castle – Best Hostel in Badian ( Check room rates! )
• Cuestas Beach Resort and Restaurant – Best Value Resort in Badian ( Check room rates! )
• Eskapo Verde Resort ( Check room rates! )
• Banamboo ( Check room rates! )

Oslob is located near the southernmost tip of Cebu. This small tourist town is known as the residence of several whale sharks. Tourists would visit Oslob just to get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with these gentle giants. For a more detailed Oslob itinerary and budget, check out our Oslob Itinerary !

Things to Do in Oslob

• Swim with giant whale sharks
• Do various activities at Bluewater Sumilon Island

Oslob Tourist Spots

• Sumilon Island Lighthouse
• Sumilon Island Baluarte
• Sumilon Island Sandbar
• Tumalog Falls
• Cuartel Ruins
• Museo Oslob
• Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church

How to Get to Oslob from Cebu City

To get to Oslob from Cebu City, take a Ceres Liner bus bound for Bato via Oslob. Tell the driver/conductor to drop you off at the whale shark activity center or at your desired location. Fare is about 300 PHP (~6 USD) for an aircon bus. Travel time is 4 hours. Learn How to Get to Oslob from Cebu City, Cebu/Mactan Airport, Moalboal, Bohol, and Dumaguete.

You can also charter a private vehicle to take you to Oslob from Cebu City or Mactan Airport. Book your Private Intercity Transfer here !

Where to Stay in Oslob

• Island Front – Bancogon Resort and Restaurant ( Check room rates! )
• Melronz Inn ( Check room rates! )
• RRJ’s Beach Resort ( Check room rates! )
• Germaroze ( Check room rates! )
• Sharky Hostel Oslob ( Check room rates! )

4. Bantayan Island

Home to beautiful white sand beaches , Bantayan Island provides a peaceful island getaway. Apart from the beaches, there are so many incredible sights to see and things to do in Bantayan Island. For a comprehensive guide to Bantayan Island, check out our Bantayan Island Travel Guide !

Things to Do in Bantayan Island

• Island hopping in Virgin Island and Hilantagaan Island
• Kite-surfing
• Cliff-diving at The Ruins

For more details, check out the Top Things to Do in Bantayan Island !

Bantayan Island Tourist Spots

• Paradise Beach
• Balidbid Lagoon
• Omagieca Mangrove Garden
• Ogtong Cave
• Sts. Peter and Paul Parish

For more details, check out the Best Bantayan Island Tourist Spots !

How to Get to Bantayan Island

To get to Bantayan Island from Cebu City, take a Ceres Liner bus at Cebu North Bus Terminal bound for Hagnaya Port. Some buses go directly to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island. If you are taking a bus directly to Santa Fe, you still need to get off at Hagnaya Port to pay for your ticket to Bantayan Island yourself. Bus fare is 305 PHP (~3 USD) and ferry fare is 350 PHP (~7 USD). Travel time is about 4-5 hours.  Learn How to Get to Bantayan Island from Cebu City, Cebu Airport, Malapascua Island, Bacolod, and more!

You can also charter a private vehicle to take you to Hagnaya Port from Cebu City or Mactan Airport. Book your Private Intercity Transfer here !

Where to Stay in Bantayan Island

• Amihan Beach Cabanas ( Check room rates! )
• Anika Island Resort ( Check room rates! )
• The Coral Blue Oriental Beach Villas and Suites ( Check room rates! )
• Sunrise Beach Club Resort Amanacer ( Check room rates! )
• SMAK’s Hotel ( Check room rates! )

5. Malapascua Island

Malapascua Island is known for its world-famous thresher sharks where they appear 365 days a year. For non-divers, Malapascua Island is still worth visiting for its tranquil white sand beaches . For a comprehensive guide to Malapascua Island, check out our Malapascua Island Travel Guide !

Things to Do in Malapascua Island

• Scuba diving with thresher sharks
• Island hopping
• Cliff-diving at Lapus-Lapus Cliff
• Dive Gato Island’s underwater tunnel
• Party on weekends at Hippocampus Beach Resort

For more details, check out the Top Things to Do in Malapascua Island !

Malapascua Island Tourist Spots

• Bounty Beach
• Langob Beach or North Beach
• Logon Beach
• Guimbitayan Beach
• Malapascua Island Lighthouse

For more detailed planning, check out our Malapascua Itinerary for 3 Days and 2 Nights !

How to Get to Malapascua Island

To get to Malapascua Island from Cebu City, take a Ceres Liner bus at Cebu North Bus Terminal bound for Maya Port. Fare is 330 PHP (~6.5 USD). Travel time is 3.5 hours.

At Maya Port, proceed to the Tourism Office to pay for the 75 PHP (~1.5 USD) ecological fee. Then go to the entrance of the boat parking to pay for your 200 PHP (~4 USD) boat fee to Malapascua Island. Learn How to Go to Malapascua Island from Cebu City, Cebu Airport, Malapascua Island, Bacolod, and more!

Where to Stay in Malapascua Island

• Evolution Dive and Beach Resort ( Check room rates! )
• Tepanee Beach Resort ( Check roo m rates! )
• Hippocampus Beach Resort ( Check room rates! )
• Angelina Beach Resort ( Check room rates! )
• Crown Malapascua ( Check room rates! )

6. Camotes Islands

Camotes Islands is a group of islands namely Poro, Pacijan, Ponson, and Tulang Diot islet. Camotes is known for its majestic caves with blue natural spring water pools. For a comprehensive guide to Camotes Islands, check out our Camotes Travel Guide !

Things to Do in Camotes Islands

• Cliff-diving at Buho Rock Resort
• Scuba diving
• Dolphin watching
• Enjoy various water activities at Lake Danao

For more details, check out the Top Things to Do in Camotes Islands !

Camotes Islands Tourist Spots

• Bukilat Cave
• Paraiso Cave
• Heaven Cave
• Timubo Cave
• Amazing Island Cave
• Santiago Bay Beach
• Mangodlong Rock Resort Beach
• Bakhaw Beach
• Heminsulan Beach
• Tulang Diot Island

For more detailed planning, check out our Camotes Island Itinerary for 3 Days and 2 Nights !

How to Get to Camotes Islands

To get to Camotes Islands from Cebu City, you can take the Oceanjet Fascraft at Cebu Pier to Poro Port. Fare is 880 PHP (~16 USD). Travel time is 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a Ceres Liner bus at Cebu Nort Bus Terminal and tell the driver/conductor to drop you off Danao Port. Fare is 70 PHP (~1.5 USD). Travel time is 1 hour. At Danao Port, take a ferry to Consuelo Port. Fare is 220 PHP (~4 USD). Travel time is 2 hours. For more details on the fastcraft and ferry schedule and fare, check out How to Go to Camotes Islands from Cebu City, Cebu Airport, Ormoc, and Manila!

You can also charter a private vehicle to take you to Danao Port from Cebu City or Mactan Airport. Book your Private Intercity Transfer here !

Where to Stay in Camotes Islands

• Homa Resort Hotel ( Check room rates! )
• Villa Marquez ( Check room rates! )
• Sunset Vista Seafront Guest House ( Check room rates! )
• Azure Camotes Resort Hotel ( Check room rates! )
• RC Hutspot Tourist Inn ( Check room rates! )

7. Cebu City

Dubbed “Queen City of the South,” Cebu City is the second most important city in the Philippines. Cebu City is your gateway to the tourist destinations in the province. While many would choose to miss the city, the city’s rich cultural history makes it worth exploring.

Things to Do in Cebu City

• Cebu City cultural heritage tour (Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, Yap-San Diego Ancestral House, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Colon Street)
• Cebu City mountainside tour (Temple of Leah, Tops Lookout, La Vie in the Sky, Sirao Garden, Buwakan ni Alejandra, Terrazas De Flores Botanical Garden)
• Explore Cebu City’s nightlife
• Sinulog Festival (every 3rd Sunday of January)

For more details, check out the Best Things to Do in Cebu City !

Tourist Spots in Cebu City

• Carbon Night Market
• Sugbu Mercado
• Cebu Ocean Park
• Museum of Emotions
• Cebu Taoist Temple

How to Get to Cebu City

To get to Cebu City, you can take a plane or ferry whichever is available or convenient for you. For more information about local and international flights, check out the How to Get to Cebu section above.

You can also charter a private vehicle to take you around Cebu City or Mactan Airport. Book your Private Car Charter in Cebu with Driver here !

Where to Stay in Cebu City

• Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino ( Check room rates! )
• Quest Hotel ( Check room rates! )
• Marco Polo Plaza Cebu ( Check room rates! )
• Mad Monkey Cebu City ( Check room rates! )
• Nomad’s Hub ( Check room rates! )

Cebu Itinerary and Budget

Since there are so many things to do in Cebu, it’s best explored in two parts: North Cebu and South Cebu. here’s a sample Cebu itinerary to give you inspiration:

Day 1: Arrival at Mactan Airport

Day 2-4: Camotes Islands

Day 5-7: Bantayan Island (with Virgin Island)

Day 8-10: Malapascua Island (with Kalanggaman Island)

Day 11-13: Moalboal (with Pescador Island and Badian)

Day 14: Alegria + Malabuyoc

Day 13: Ginatilan + Samboan

Day 14: Oslob (with Sumilon Island)

This trip to Cebu cost 25,000 PHP (~500 USD), including meals, accommodation, transportation, scooter rentals, tour fees, entrance fees, and environmental fees.For a more detailed schedule of activities and budget, check out our Cebu Itineray for 7 Days and 6 Nights . If you want to explore the depths of Cebu, divide your trip into two. Read our North Cebu Itinerary and South Cebu Itinerary for inspiration.

Cebu Travel Guide FAQs

If you still have concerns, you might be asking these same questions. Read on to learn more about traveling to Cebu.

1. What are the travel requirements going to Cebu?

As of May 20, 2023, there are no more travel requirements to enter any point of Cebu and the Philippines in general. No more vaccination certificates and COVID-19 tests are required.

2. Is it okay to travel to Cebu now?

Yes, it’s okay to travel to Cebu now like many other tourist destinations in the Philippines . The COVID-19 pandemic is officially over as announced by the World Health Organization. It is definitely okay and safe to travel to Cebu now.

3. Which is better Cebu or Boracay?

Cebu and Boracay each have their own sets of strengths and weaknesses. If you like a crystal-clear white sand beach and crazy island nightlife, Boracay Island is better. If you like dozens of white sand beaches, nightlife, unique fun activities , and access to the city, Cebu is the better option.

4. Is Cebu good for tourists?

Yes, Cebu is good for tourists. It was not named as one of the best islands in the world for nothing. In Cebu, you get access to crystal-clear white sand beaches, picturesque islands and islets, imposing waterfalls, and of course, fun activities like swimming with whale sharks , canyoneering , swimming with millions of sardines and green sea turtles , skydiving, and scuba diving with thresher sharks. Cebu won’t disappoint a wanderlust like you!

5. What is Cebu famous for?

Cebu is famous for a lot of things. It is the oldest city in the Philippines where Christianity started in the country. Cebu is home to Spanish-era churches, forts, and historical structures. Cebu is also famous for its world-class islands , rich marine life, and beautiful white sand beaches .

If you are still planning for your trip to Cebu, be sure to check out some useful guides to help you:

• Cebu Itinerary for 7 Days and 6 Nights
• Best Places to Visit in Cebu
• Best Things to Do in Cebu

That’s it for now. I hope this list inspired you to explore Cebu soon. Got questions? Leave them in the comments! We will get back to you soon.

For updates, follow CEBU INSIDER on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram !

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Cebu Itinerary: How To Spend The Best Five Days On Cebu Island

Posted on Last updated: July 1, 2023

Cebu is a stunning island province in the Philippines, with idyllic white-sand beaches, gorgeous natural scenery and incredible diving.

The island has a booming tourism industry, thanks to its natural charm, yet it remains a paradise for relaxation and adventure.

I spent five days in Cebu and absolutely loved it, and I just knew that most of you would too! So I’ve put together my Cebu itinerary for you to gather inspiration for your very own Cebu trip.

From thrilling canyon adventures and waterfalls to spectacular sardine diving and beach relaxation, following this Cebu travel guide will take you on an unforgettable journey!

Since the home base of my Cebu trip, as well as the majority of the activities, were in the South, this will predominantly be a South Cebu Itinerary.

Before you go, make sure you have everything you need for your Cebu trip with this Philippines essentials packing list !

• 1.1 Day 1: Land in Cebu and Travel to Moalboal 
• 1.2 Day 2: Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls
• 1.3 Day 3: Snorkel With Sardines & Turtles
• 1.4 Day 4: Waterfalls & Osmeña Peak
• 1.5.1 Swim With the Whale Sharks in Oslob 
• 1.5.2 Cebu City Tour Itinerary 
• 2.1 Where to stay in Cebu
• 2.2 What to pack

Enjoying Kawasan Falls in Cebu Island, Philippines, before the crowds

Cebu 5-day itinerary

Day 1: land in cebu and travel to moalboal  .

After arriving in Cebu City, make your way to Moalboal. Situated on the Southwestern tip of Cebu, Moalboal is one of the island’s most popular towns and will act as your base during your Cebu itinerary .

All the most fun adventures and coolest attractions in Cebu are located in the South of the island so you want to be based around there to save travel time.

The bus ride from Cebu City to Moalboal takes around 3-4 hours but is easy on the wallet (tickets cost under $3 USD), and the destination is well worth the journey.

Depending on what bus you get, this may or may not have air conditioning, and it will stop at various places along the way. Alternatively, you could make use of a private transfer for a more comfortable journey.

Depending on what time you arrive, you may choose to head out into the town for some exploration once you’ve settled into your Moalboal accommodation.

Click here to book your transfer from Cebu Airport to Moalboal!

Enjoying a stunning sunset in Moalboal, Cebu Island

There isn’t much to see in this small town, but walking around and absorbing the atmosphere is a great way to get settled in.

If you get there in time make sure to head down to the beach for sunset, all the sunsets we saw in Moalboal were incredible!

Panagsama is Moalboal’s beachside tourist hub. It’s an idyllic section of the coast with a laidback vibe and a plethora of inviting beach-side bars, restaurants, and resorts.

Spend some time exploring the area before stopping at Venz Kitchen for some delicious local food and, then head to one of the many seafront bars for a drink while looking at the ocean.

Head back to your accommodation and get some rest; day 2 is going to be packed full of adventure!

| READ MORE: PHILIPPINES 3 WEEK ITINERARY |

A chicken sisig I ate in Moalboal, a traditional Filipino dish

Day 2: Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls

Wake up bright and early and make your way to Kawasan Falls . The journey to the falls is around 45 minutes, and you can get there via bus, rented car, or taxi.

Kawasan Falls is a popular destination in Cebu, and one of our absolute favourites. The water in the river is a brilliant string of turquoise, flowing through dense greenery in a jungle canyon.

The colours are vibrant and the scenery is undeniably magnificent.

Many travellers choose to simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the falls, generally by setting up at one of the picnic tables next to the lowest and largest of the three main waterfalls. 

Exploring Kawasan Falls in Cebu, Philippines, with @solarpoweredblonde and @offgoesannie

However, while relaxing by the falls is pleasant, I highly recommend canyoneering down the river valley. It’s one of the most beautiful and exhilarating experiences I’ve had to date!

Check out my Kawasan Falls canyoneering guide for the full scoop. What is canyoneering? Good question.

Canyoneering, also known as canyoning, is a multi-faceted adventure activity that involves making your way down a canyon/valley using a variety of methods.

It’s generally a combination of climbing, hiking, swimming, and cliff diving, and it’s a whole lot of fun.

Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls in Cebu, Philippines

I strongly recommend that you only go canyoneering as part of an organised tour , as having an experienced guide and safety equipment will help keep you safe as you make your way down the canyon.

You can book your canyoneering experience online in order to ensure your place ahead of time.

The canyoneering experience will take up the majority of the day, but you’ll also get to spend some time exploring the Kawasan Falls and relaxing in the natural pools.

If you already know you want to go canyoneering, I highly recommend booking a tour before as opposed tonne you get there, as they usually include transfers, which will save you having to figure out how to get there.

Click here to book your Kawasan Falls canyoneering experience!

Wading through the river in Kawasan Falls

Day 3: Snorkel With Sardines & Turtles

Cebu, and particularly Moalboal, is famous for its amazing diving opportunities . The water around the island is home to some incredible marine life.

Wake slowly on day 3 and head over to Panagsama Beach for a day of underwater exploration.

Moalboal is particularly famous for its unparalleled, year-round sardine run, that results in almost guaranteed sightings of sardines every day of the year!

This phenomenon is entirely natural and ethical; the sardines are left untouched by humans and are marine protected.

Millions of sardines in tightly packed shoals form vast, sparkling balls that warp and wind their way through the clear water. Snorkeling amongst these incredible, harmonious schools of sardines is a breathtaking experience.  

Swimming with sardines in Moalboal, Cebu

A shoal of sardines in Moalboal, Cebu Island

Just off Panagsama Beach, snorkellers are also frequently graced by sea turtle sightings, as these large, majestic creatures swoop in for a sardine snack.

The turtles are beautiful to watch in the water, as they soar through it with elegance and ease. We were fortunate enough to experience both the sardines and sea turtles while snorkelling in Moalboal!

Other common sightings include jacks, dolphins, thresher sharks, and even the occasional whale shark.

Moalboal is also a particularly affordable place to go diving, and Panagsama beach is lined with a vast selection of diving and snorkelling stores.

The best spot to snorkel with turtles and sardines without going on an organised tour is on the beach right in front of the SeaQuest Dive Centre .

Snorkelling with turtles in Moalboal in Cebu Island

You can choose to explore on your own by bringing your own snorkelling gear or renting gear for around $2 USD per day.

There are also many scuba schools in Panagsama Beach, so if you’d like to dive deep, scuba diving is another great option.

When you’ve had enough snorkelling for the day, catch a 20-minute tuk-tuk or taxi to White Beach .

This beach is a stunning place to have a relaxed afternoon in the sun, before heading back to your accommodation for a good night’s sleep.

| READ MORE: 15 INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES |

Sunset at White Beach in Cebu Island

Day 4: Waterfalls & Osmeña Peak

Get an early start and grab some breakfast in preparation for a busy day. We recommend renting a car on day 4, as it will give you the greatest amount of freedom and flexibility.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer someone else to take the wheel, you can book a Osmeña Peak and Kawasan Falls guided tour.

Hop in the car, and head south toward Osmeña Peak. Cambais Falls is only a small detour on the route to Osmeña Peak, and one that’s certainly worth making.

The falls are just as enchanting as Kawasan Falls but offer a different experience and scenery. Stopping by the falls is also a great way to cool down mid-way through a long car journey.  

Enjoying the view over Moalboal and the Cebu coastline from Osmena Peak

After a visit to the waterfall, continue the drive to the base of Osmeña Peak.

Osmeña Peak, also known as Mount Labalaslan, is the tallest mountain in Cebu, offering some of the island’s most famously stunning views.

The hike up is a beautiful experience in itself, and is relatively easygoing, taking only around 25 minutes.

When you get to the top, you’ll be welcomed by views that extend across rolling mountainous terrain, rugged cliffs, and lush greenery all the way to the sea.

This allows you to get an incredible perspective on the island from above.

Sunrise is a particularly popular time to visit Osmeña Peak, as the morning light dances across the dramatic landscape.

However, mornings can be particularly foggy during the winter months, so sunset is sometimes a better option.

If you visit at sunset you can make a full day out of it; starting your day at Kawasan Falls, then on to Cambais Falls and ending at Osmeña Peak.

Check out my Osmeña Peak guide for more information and a detailed breakdown of this day trip.

Click here to book your Osmeña Peak & waterfalls trip!

The jagged rocks and sea views of Osmena Peak on Cebu Island, Philippines

Day 5: Travel back to Cebu City OR Oslob  

On your last day in Cebu, you can decide whether you’d like to head back north to Cebu City, or continue your journey further south to Oslob, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to swim with whale sharks.

Swim With the Whale Sharks in Oslob  

If you choose to head to Oslob to experience swimming with whale sharks , then get an early start and make the 2 ½ hour journey south from Moalboal.

Oslob is a small town on the southwestern coast of Cebu, and one of the best-known places in the world to snorkel with whale sharks. The practice involves feeding the sharks in order to lure them in, which is a point of contention.

Whale shark tourism has a series of proposed negative and positive consequences, from the supposed preservation of the species to unnatural patterns upsetting ecosystems.

Swimming with the whale sharks is a profound, once-in-a-lifetime experience, so it’s worth reading up on the controversy of the practice before deciding whether or not you choose to partake.

After a morning with the whale sharks, make the 10-minute drive to Tumalog falls. These falls are amongst the most revered on the island, for their gorgeous turquoise water and idyllic surroundings.

The mossy rock formations and gentle misty streams create an ethereal atmosphere that’s well worth experiencing.

The drive to Cebu City from Oslob will take around 3 ½ hours, so be sure to leave plenty of time to get back if you’re flying on day 5.

Click here to book your whale sharks and snorkelling day trip in Cebu!

Swimming with whale sharks – Photo by Elaana Kirsten Balbuena on Scopio

Cebu City Tour Itinerary  

If you choose to not go to Oslob, you should still aim to get an early start in order to make the 3-4 hour journey back to Cebu City from Moalboal.

If you have some time in Cebu City before your flight, make the most of it by doing a bit of sightseeing with a DIY Cebu City tour.

Visit old colonial landmarks such as Fort San Pedro and Basilica del Santo Nino for a window into 16th-century Cebu.

Next, stop by at Cebu’s stunning Taoist Temple, with its striking architecture and ornate detailing.

Lastly, pay a visit to the Cebu Heritage Monument, an artistically crafted structure that vividly depicts the winding history of the island.

Snorkelling with millions of fish during our boat trip in El Nido

Alternatively, you could choose to streamline and enhance your sightseeing experience with a guided Cebu City tour . This is a great option if you’d like to hear some interesting facts and stories about the city and its sights.

If you’re staying in Cebu for one last night, or have some time before your flight, be sure to indulge in an incredible buffet dinner at Feria .

Book your Cebu City tour here!

The view when you first set off on your Kawasan Falls canyoneering tour

Cebu Travel Guide – General Information

Now that we’ve gone over the day-by-day itinerary and best things to do in Cebu in 5 days, here are some essential tips on where to stay on what to pack for this Cebu tour itinerary.

Where to stay in Cebu

Moalboal is my favourite place to stay in Cebu. It pairs great resorts, beaches, activities, and restaurants, with a quaint seaside town atmosphere.

It’s the ideal place to use as a base during your trip to Cebu, as it’s not only a lovely town, but it’s also close to many of the cool activities.

I’ve listed some accommodation options for every budget in Moalboal.

Drone shot by @solarpoweredblonde of one of the beaches in Moalboal in Cebu Island

Budget:  We stayed at  MoHo Hostel  and found it perfect for what we needed. The dorms are spacious with a curtain at each bed for privacy.

However they have happy hour on every night and very cheap drinks, meaning it can turn into a bit of a party hostel. Fine if that’s what you want, but if you want to sleep, maybe not the best spot!

Click here to book your stay at MoHo Hostel!

Mid-range:  Our friend Annie stayed at  West Coast Beach House  and loved it. It’s closer to the beach than MoHo, has friendly staff and you can get a private room at affordable prices.

Click here to book your stay at West Coast Beach House!

Luxury : If you’re looking for something a bit fancier,  Oceanfront Paradise Hotel  is a great choice.

Besides the sea-view and spacious rooms they also have a pool where you can relax after a long day of snorkelling with sardines and turtles!

Click here to book your stay at Oceanfront Paradise Hotel!

A beautiful sunset at the beach in Moalboal

What to pack

Swimsuit – You’ll spend a lot of time in the water during your trip to Cebu. Between basking beneath the waterfalls and soaking up the beauty of the many amazing beaches, you’ll certainly want to bring a swimsuit!

Comfortable walking shoes – You’ll be doing a reasonable amount of walking during your trip to Cebu, so make sure you’ve got comfortable footwear.

You may also choose to bring some worn out shoes for the canyoneering experience, although shoes are also available to rent.

Power bank – I always like to have a power bank with me when travelling.

Long days out can drain your battery, and having a charged up phone will allow you to snap some pictures of your adventures and call on google maps in case you get lost!

Fast drying towel – Whether it’s for your waterfall adventures, to chill on the beach or for your hostel shower, you’ll be glad to have one of these with you!

Final thoughts on spending 5 days in Cebu

Have you been to Cebu before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Cebu is an incredible place, with some of the most stunning landscapes I’ve had the pleasure of seeing! A trip to this island paradise, done right, will leave you thrilled and enchanted long after you leave.

My five days in Cebu were amongst my favourite of my Philippines trip. Following this Cebu itinerary I’ve laid out in will guarantee you an awesome trip, but feel free to alter it to fit your personal tastes and interests.

It’s a varied and exciting journey from start to finish, and packs in all of my favorite Cebu activities.  So, get booking and head to Cebu for an incredible adventure!

Looking for more Philippines travel tips? Check out these guides:

• Coron boat tours – which one is best for you?
• Discover the best El Nido island hopping tours
• Everything you need to know about visiting Malcapuya Island
• Guyam, Daku & Naked Islands – island hopping tour in Siargao
• Should you go kayaking in El Nido?

Enjoyed reading my Cebu itinerary? Pin it!

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• ADVENTURE TRIPS
• HOTELS & RESORTS
• FIND HOTELS WITH DISCOUNTED RATES!

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Cebu travel requirements for tourists & visitors (including cebu city, lapu-lapu & mandaue).

Planning a trip to Cebu this 2022? Here are the latest Cebu travel requirements for tourists and visitors traveling to Cebu, Cebu City, Lapu-lapu (Mactan) and Mandaue City!

Cebu province travel requirements for tourists & visitors, the province of cebu is under alert level 2 from january 1-15, 2022. below are the general travel requirements for cebu province..

• Effective immediately, all persons traveling to the Province of Cebu shall no longer be required to present a negative (a) RT-PCR Test Result nor a (b) Rapid Antigen Test Result or (c) a medical certificate as a requirement for entry.
• Instead, fully vaccinated persons shall be required to present their vaccination cards or vaccination certificates as proof of vaccination. Click here to know how to download a Vaccination Certificate from VaxCertPH .
• Unvaccinated or partially-vaccinated individuals shall present a medical certificate issued within 24 hours before your arrival in Cebu.
• Interzonal travel within the entire island of Cebu shall be permitted. All persons shall be allowed to travel to and from the Province of Cebu and the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu.
• For those traveling to Cebu, confirmed round-trip plane ticket must also be presented (except for Locally Stranded Individuals and Returning Overseas Filipinos)
• Valid Identification Card.
• Passed symptom checking or screening at the port upon arrival and upon boarding.
• For the latest advice and updated on travel requirements, please visit www.cebu.gov.ph or www.facebook.com/cebugovph .
• For more information or for any concerns, you may also get in touch with the Provincial Government of Cebu through the their email address at [email protected] or via phone at (+63 32) 888 2328.

CEBU CITY TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR TOURISTS & VISITORS

Update as of january 13, 2022: cebu city is under alert level 3 from january 14-31, 2022. if you're planning to visiting cebu city, here are the travel requirements for fully-vaccinated, partially-vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists..

• Fully vaccinated individuals
• Valid ID/proof of identity bearing holder's picture and signature.
• Official vaccination cards with QR code. If without QR codes, present the Official Vaccination Certificates issued by the local health officer or by the DOH-Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ). Negative Covid-19 test result is NO LONGER REQUIRED.
• Other travelers NOT FULLY VACCINATED
• A negative RT-PCR (swab) test result taken within seventy-two (72) hours; OR
• A negative Antigen test result taken within forty-eight (48) hour; OR
• A negative Saliva test result taken within forty-eight (48) hours
• Tests must be taken from accredited and licensed testing centers and laboratories by the Department of Health (DOH). Click here to know where to get Affordable RT-PCR and Rapid Antigent Tests by accredited and licensed testing centers and laboratories by the DOH.
• For other travelers such as Returning Overseas Filipinos (RFO), Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), Locally Stranded Individuals (LSI), Authorized Persons Outside of Residence (APOR), and others, please coordinate with the local government units for the latest and updated travel requirements.
• For inquiries and more information , you may send an email to [email protected].

LAPU-LAPU CITY (MACTAN) TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR TOURISTS & VISITORS

Update as of january 1, 2022: lapu-lapu city (mactan) shall implement alert level 2 guidelines from january 1-15, 2022 and shall remain in force unless the city is placed under a different alert level system. here are the travel requirements..

• The requirement for all persons bound for Lapu-Lapu City to present a negative RT-PCR Test Result taken within the last 72 hours or a negative Antigen Test taken within the last 48 hours prior to boarding shall be suspended until further notice .
• Intrazonal and interzonal travel shall be allowed subject to the reasonable restrictions based on age and comorbidities, as may be determined by the LGUs, which should not be stricter as those prescribed under Alert Level 4 and subject to the oversight, monitoring, and evaluation of their respective RIATF.
• All persons, whether APOR or non-APOR, coming from local government units outside the island of Cebu, regardless of their community quarantine status, who shall enter the City of Lapu-Lapu through the airport shall be required to present any of the following:
• Negative RT-PCR Test Result taken within the last 72 hours; or
• Negative Antigen Test Result taken within the last 48 hours
• NOTE: The negative RT-PCR or Antigen test shall be presented to the airline prior to boarding.
• Click here to know where to get Affordable RT-PCR and Rapid Antigent Tests
• For other types of travelers such as Returning Overseas Filipinos (RFO), Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), Locally Stranded Individuals (LSI), Authorized Persons Outside of Residence (APOR), and others, please coordinate with the local government units for the latest and updated travel requirements.
• For inquiries and more information , you may send an email to [email protected] or [email protected].

MANDAUE CITY TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR TOURISTS & VISITORS

Update as of january 13, 2022: mandaue city is under alert level 3 from january 14-31, 2022. if you're traveling to mandaue city, here are the travel requirements..

• All persons that can present official vaccine cards and/or official vaccine certificates showing that they have been FULLY VACCINATED from an official vaccine sites shall be EXEMPTED from presenting a Negative RT-PCR Test or Antigen Test Result prior to their entry into Mandaue City.
• Persons who are NOT FULLY VACCINATED , whether coming from high risk or low risk areas outside Cebu Island, shall be required to present proof of identity and any of the following before entering the City of Mandaue through any of its ports and other points of entry:
• The test must be conducted and performed by accredited and licensed testing centers and laboratories by the DOH. Click here to know where to get Affordable RT-PCR and Rapid Antigent Tests
• For tourists, you must also submit the following:
• Government-issued ID/Proof of Identification
• Confirmed Hotel Booking/Accommodation
• Travel Itinerary
• Must pass symptom screening at ports of entry and exit
• Documentary requirements must be submitted prior to travel to the city of Mandaue thru the City Tourism Office: [email protected] and [email protected].
• A Certificate of Acceptance or Travel Authority shall not be necessary before a person may be allowed entry to Mandaue City. Instead, the City Tourism Office shall send an email reply to the person concerned confirming receipt of the submitted documents and validating that the documents are complete and in order.
• The City Tourism Office shall be authorized to issue such confirmation / certificate to the requesting party.
• For inquiries and more information , you may send an email to [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected].
• For the latest advice and updated on travel requirements, please visit www.mandauecity.gov.ph .

You may also visit the following websites:

• www.mactancebuairport.com
• www.philippineairlines.com
• www.cebupacificair.com

To help you plan your trip to Cebu, you may check out these posts:

• Top Things to Do in Cebu - I shared here some of the best things to do in La Union, tourist spots and best places to visit.
• Cebu Travel Itineraries - Here are sample Cebu itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6 days or more that could copy, follow and serve as guide in creating your your own Cebu itinerary.
• Best Hotels & Resorts in Cebu - I shared here some of the best hotels, resorts and beach resorts in Cebu that you may consider for your trip.
• Cebu Tour Package - See here some of my recommended affordable and cheap Cebu Travel Packages that you could avail for your trip.
• Cebu Blog Posts - Check out my other posts on Cebu!

Search for Hotels and Resorts in Cebu!

You may also like:.

• Philippines Travel Requirements for Foreign Tourists and Balikbayans
• Bohol Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Boracay Travel Requirements for Tourists
• La Union Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Ilocos Norte Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Ilocos Sur Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Baguio Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Banaue Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Sagada Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Pangasinan Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Siargao Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Camiguin Travel Requirements for Tourists
• El Nido Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Coron Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Negros Occidental & Bacolod Travel Requirements
• Negros Oriental & Dumaguete Travel Requirements
• San Juan, Batangas Travel Requirements
• Puerto Galera Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Baler Aurora Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Subic & Zambales Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Bataan Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Cebu (CEB) Travel Guidelines from Philippine Airlines
• Travel Requirements to Cebu from Cebu Pacific Air
• Mactan-Cebu International Airport Domestic Arrival Guide

FOLLOW MY ADVENTURES ON YOUTUBE @PinoyAdventurista

3 comments :.

what requirements are needed for underage like 11 years old entering cebu from leyte...of course with her parent whose fully vaccinated...

hi. pag kasama kids, ano requirements po. thank you

If I will be travelling from Manila to Cebu, do I need any visa's or passports to enter or no? I just wanna make sure before booking tickets

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Camotes Islands, Cebu

Camotes Islands is one of the best places to escape the city life in Cebu.

I’ve been to the island a couple of times and I have to say, I always enjoy my visit to Camotes Islands.

So here is an updated travel guide to the Camotes Islands in Cebu.

The name itself is intriguing. It sounds like Kamote , which means sweet potato. Does this island have many sweet potatoes? I’m not sure. But this island has much to offer than a root vegetable. I will share those with you.

But before that, I would like to show you that this is not just an Island, but a group of islands . Camotes is composed of four islands: Pacijan , Poro , Ponson, and Tulang. The first two are connected by a bridge. That being said, you can explore the two main islands easily.

How to get to Camotes Islands:

PLEASE NOTE: Due to Quarantine Restrictions, the operation time of the following may not be updated and may be subject to change at any time.   Please check their respective social media channels or websites to keep updated. Thank you!

Option 1: OceanJet Fast Craft

This is the fastest option.

• Go to Cebu Port, Pier 1
• Open-air. -Php500
• Tourist Class – Php500
• Business Class Php800
• Travel Time: 1-2 hours

OceanJet Schedules:

• CEBU- CAMOTES: 6:00 AM, 3:00 PM
• CAMOTES- CEBU: 8:00 AM, 5:00 PM

For updated schedules, check OceanJet Facebook Page

Option 2: Jomalia Shipping

• From Cebu City – Go to the north bus terminal and take a van/bus going to Danao Port, Danao City. The fair will range to Php70.00 . It will take 1.5 hours to get there.
• From Danao Port – Take Jomalia Shipping for Php250.00 . It takes 2 hours to get to Consuelo Port in Camotes.

*Terminal Fee- Php5.00

Jomalia Shipping Schedules:

• 5:30 am (roro), 8:30 am (roro), 9:30 am (LCT), 10:00am (Fast craft), 11:30 am (roro), 2:30 pm (roro), 8:00 pm (roro), 10:00 pm (LCT)
• 5:30 am (roro), 6:00 am (Fast craft), 6:30 am (LCT), 8:30 am (roro), 9:30 am (Fast craft), 11:30 am (roro), 2:30 pm (roro), 5:30 pm (roro), 6:30 pm (LCT), 8:00 pm (roro)

Please check Jomalia Shipping Corporation Facebook Page for the updated schedule

Upon arriving on the island there are many tricycles and multicabs around. You can ask them to rent for the whole day. It will cost Php1500-2500.00 depending on the size. Remember, always haggle. Also, I’ve been to the island 2 times and I can recommend that it is better to tour the island with a group. Less expense, more fun!

Where to Stay in Camotes

Mangodlong Paradise Resort :

Last April 2021, we stayed at Mangodlong Paradise Resort .

We only stayed in the resort for our whole stay. We didn’t go out and explore the island since it was not our first time visiting. And also because we want to have less contact with people just to be safe since it is still pandemic.

I enjoyed the resort a lot and here are the things I like in the resort aside from its wonderful accommodation:

• They have a restaurant inside and the food is delicious. No need to go outside.
• The pool is massive.
• The beach is beautiful and exclusive.
• You can use their kayak for free.
• You can book a ticket for Jomalia Shipping at their reception.
• They accept Credit Card! I prefer using my card so this is a big plus for me.

Please note that the internet connection in this area is not great so if you want to work, that might be a problem. But if you want to disconnect and enjoy this paradise, then it will be perfect!

You can book the resort below:

Accommodations in Mangodlong, Himensola (near Consuelo Port):

• Mangodlong Rock Resort
• Coco Grove Nature Resort and Spa
• Camotes Ocean Heaven Resort

Accommodations near Santiago Beach:

• Santiago Bay Garden and Resort
• Camotes Backpackers Hostel
• Masamayor’s Beach House and Resort
• Pito’s Sutokil & Bamboo Rock Resort

Places to visit in Camotes Islands

1. santiago bay beach.

Santiago Beach offers a vast shoreline. Not to mention the fine sand! You can walk the beach strip from end to end.

On the right side, facing the ocean, there’s a beautiful rock formation where you can swim. Most of the time it is low tide, but there’s a right time to swim; around 10 AM. I must warn you that, it will be scorching hot.

On the other side, you can get a delicious meal in Pito’s Sotokil at a reasonable price. During my first visit (a few years ago), there were a lot of people, but believe me, the long wait will be worth it once the food is served. Also, this side of the island offers a beautiful sunset.

At night, it is good to stay outside and watch the stars. Sounds cheesy and romantic. Haha. But I would like to share with you that I am very happy I did that. I had. change to see Shooting Star during one of my first visits here.

2. Buho Rock

For an entrance of Php20.00 . You can see a beautiful view from the top. Going down, you can experience cliff jumping up to 50 feet. I even saw Korean kids jumping from 15 feet jump. That was awesome. If you don’t want to try the cliff jump, you can swim to the other side where there are amazing rock formations.

3. Lake Danao

Aside from the beach, this is my favorite part of the island.

Lake Danao offers such beautiful scenery. The best part is you can explore it more with paddling rides, you should take the kayak. It will cost Php50.00 for each person. It is one of the best things to do here.

During my first visit, my friends and I had a little competition about who would get first to the islet. It was exhausting!

Also, there are food stalls at the Lake. Take some food and refreshments to bring back those energies you exerted from kayaking.

4. Timubo Cave

One of the caves in Camotes. You have to walk a little bit to reach the water. Inside, you can see a Grotto. The water is cold. Also, it is better to be here without too many people.

The entrance fee is Php20.00.

5. Paraiso Cave

This cave is already developed. Quite smaller than Timubo Cave, but if you like caves that much you can’t also miss this.

The entrance fee is Php50.00.

6. Bukilat Cave

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kali (@kalicarcel)

Bukilat Cave is very secluded but I guess it is worth it to visit. The sunlight from the roof opening makes the whole cave look amazing inside.

The cave is in the municipality of Tudela.

The Entrance fee is Php20.00

7. Holy Crystal Cave

Another cave on the island. It is located in Brgy. Union, San Francisco, Camotes.

No entrance fee, just donations. So please give a reasonable amount for the guide since it will take 1.5 hours to tour the 8 levels of the cave.

It is better to tour the place with not more than 5 people. The cave offers great formations of stalagmites, may be the reason it is named Holy Crystal Cave.

8. Busay Falls

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Say Say (@abcdesay)

This three-level falls with a little pool has natural clear water. It will take a 10-minute hike to get there.

The entrance fee is Php10.00.

9. Panganuron Falls

Panganuron Falls is located on Poro Island. You will have a 45-minute walk to get there. Do not forget to wear proper hiking shoes. It will help you be more comfortable on your way to the falls.

Just ask the locals to guide you on your way in order for you not to get lost.

10. Tulang Diot Island

Remember the 4 islands? Well, this is the smallest island in Camotes. It will only take 10-15 minutes to get here for a fair of Php20.00 back and forth.

Tulang Diot Island offers fine white sand and crystal water.  Also, you can spend the night and camp here.

Tip: Do not rent the boat, it will cost you much.

Other Beaches in Camotes

• Mangodlong Beach at Mangodlong, Heminsulan, San Francisco, Camotes
• Borromeo Beach at Bakhaw, Esperanza
• Bakhaw Beach at San Francisco (Entrance Fee: Php10.00)
• Esperanza Beach at Mangodlong, Heminsulan, San Francisco, Camotes

Haven’t been here? Go and experience the island! Share this post with your friends.

Also, follow me on Facebook and Instagram !

Disclaimer:  Some of the links in this post do contain affiliate links that I earn a small commission for, but they come at NO extra cost to you! Any purchases you make through my links help keep the site running (and help me feed to survive). Still and the same, as I’ve mentioned above, I only recommend brands that I personally use or believe in. Thanks in advance for your support!

My Travel Faves!

🌎  Safetywing : For travel insurance ✈️  Google Flights : For finding flight deals 🏨  Booking.com:  For searching hotels

☀️  Klook :  For tours and activities 📷  Canon G7X Mark II : My travel camera 🧳  Luggage : My favorite luggage

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Camotes has a lot of tourist attractions to offer! We’ll surely visit there soon. God willing!

Reck Adventures

I’ve been to Camotes several times and still beautiful to visit every time.

deercharisma

Your pictures reminded me so much of my family vacation there, many eons ago plus I didn’t know that it consists of 4 different islands, a nice trivia actually.

These places look great! Might want to visit there sometime! Thank you for this list!

Ahhhhh, one of the islands my heart is always longing to visiting again and again. I am glad the recent time I went there was with you, Hernan, and Rich. I cannot wait to go back! <3

I have been to Camotes before but it felt lacking to me. I hope I could go back, even for a solo trip!

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A Quick Cebu-Bohol Trip (Itinerary + Guide + Budget)

As of 2020, there are 7641 islands in the Philippines. That sounds like a lot right? How can you get the taste of the Philippines if there are thousands of islands out there? Luckily, there are two that you can visit aside from Manila to get that authentic Philippine experience and those two are Cebu and Bohol .

Table of Contents

How to Get to Cebu

From manila.

There are two options to get to Cebu from Manila. You can opt to ride a ferry or purchase a direct flight to Cebu.

Manila to Cebu Ferry

The travel time from Manila to Cebu is approximately 22 hours. Ticket prices may vary. It is usually around 1,000 Php for Tourist Class ,  1,200 Php for Cabin for 4,  and  3,800 Php for a Suiteroom for 2 .

Look for Discounted Ferry to Cebu Here

Manila to Cebu Flights

The travel time from Manila to Cebu via flight is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Ticket prices vary but they are usually around 1500 – 3000 Php  for a one-way fare.

From Other Countries

Luckily, you may be able to fly directly to Cebu to Mactan Cebu International Airport. Check out 12goasia for Cheap flights.

Look for Discounted Flights to Cebu Here

Cebu Accomodation

Cebu itinerary.

Book Your Cebu Day Tour Here!

Sirao Garden

One of the best places to have Instagram worthy pics is in Sirao Garden also known as Little Amsterdam . The entrance Fee to this place is only 50 Php.

  Countless backdrops of blooming flowers to emphasize the beauty of mother nature.

Temple of Leah

Built in 2012 by  Teodorico Soriano Adarna for his late wife Leah  Albino- Adarna (both whom are grandparents of actress Ellen Adarna) as a gesture of love. Temple of Leah is sometimes called the Taj Mahal of Cebu.

The exterior of the place is eerily similar to the ancient Greek structures.

Taoist Temple

Fort San Pedro

Basílica Menor del Santo Niño de Cebú

Magellan’s Cross

We all know about the history of how the Spaniards came to our country. Famous Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan under the blessing of the King of Spain to search for Spice Islands ends up in an island that would later become Cebu instead. Upon arriving to Cebu, this cross is planted next to the Basilica Menor del Santo Niño.

More Fun Things to Do in Cebu

Bohol itinerary, cebu to bohol.

The best way to get to Bohol from Cebu is through a Ferry. Travel time may take around 2 hours. Two main companies that frequently travel to Bohol is Super Cat and Ocean Jet. The price is usually around 600 PHP to 1,300 PHP.

Get a Discounted Bohol Tour Here!

Bohol Accommodation

Loboc river.

Book Your Loboc River Cruise Here!

Chocolate Hills

One of the most famous tourist attractions here in Bohol. The Chocolate Hills is also one of the Seven Wonders of Nature. 

Book Your Bohol Countryside Tour Here!

Tarsier Sanctuary

Meet the world’s smallest primates in Bohol’s Tarsier Sanctuary . Tarsiers are known for their small stature and wide eyes. They are also nocturnal so if you visit in the morning, they are probably asleep. They can only be found here and Indonesia.

Butterfly Farm

Manmade Forest

Panglao Beach

After spending days of touring, take time to relax on Panglao Beach.

Book Your Panglao Beach Tour

Bohol to Panglao Private Beach Transfer

Bohol to Panglao Shared Transfer

Panglao Beach Accomodation

More fun things to do in bohol, estimated budget and cost, manila to cebu airfare.

Manila to Cebu one-way ticket approximately 1500 Php – 3000 Php (1pax)

and 3000 – 6000 Php (1pax) for roundtrip tickets.

1,000 Php for Tourist Class (1pax)

1,200 Php for Cabin for 4

3,800 Php for a Suiteroom for 2.

Cebu to Bohol Ferry

Ferry to Bohol 600 PHP to 1,300 PHP (1pax)

Bohol to Panglao Transfer

Private Transfer – 350 Php – 1000 Php (1pax)

Shared Transfer – 250 Php – 500 Php (1pax)

Activities and Entrance Fees

Cebu Day Tour – 800  Php – 2000 Php (1pax)

Bohol Day Tour – 2000 Php – 3500 Php (1pax)

Panglao Tour – 2000 Php (1pax)

Accommodations

Approximately around 1500 Php – 3000 Php per night for a budget room.

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CEBU CITY TRAVEL GUIDE (Itinerary + Budget)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Jan 15, 2019 | Cebu , Itinerary , Philippines , Travel Guide | 26 comments

Cebu has always been a tourist magnet and its capital – CEBU CITY ,  is a beautiful mix of contradictions, from modern skyline to highland hideaways.  There is no shortage of activities here for travelers, and the city has a buzzing food scene too. Don’t go home without trying the famous lechon ,  trust me, it isn’t dubbed as the “ Lechon Capital of the World” for nothing.  Here’s a travel blog to guide you in planning your trip to Cebu.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

CEBU TRAVEL GUIDE

About cebu city.

Cebu City is the capital of Cebu province, situated in Visayas. The locals here speak Cebuano, also known as Bisaya.  It is believed to be the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines.  Locals also speak Tagalog (Filipino) and English,  so asking for directions and recommendations is pretty easy.

Cebu City is known for Sinulog, the grandest festival in the country held every third week of January in honor of the image of Sto.Nino, said to be a gift to Queen Juana (Hara Amihan), the wife of Rajah Humabon, by the Portuguese colonizer Ferdinand Magellan. The festival dance resembling the current of the river, locally known as sulog, is believed to be of pagan origin practiced by the locals even before the arrival of the Spaniards. Today, the cross that Magellan planted in the shores of Cebu is the poster image of the city.

Here’s a travel blog to  help guide you in your  Cebu City trip.

  HOW TO GET TO CEBU CITY FROM MANILA

Several airlines fly between Manila and Cebu (Mactan International Airport) such as Cebu Pacific , Philippine Airlines and Airasia .  There are also flights to Cebu from Kalibo, Siargao, Tacloban, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Iloilo, Camiguin and Legazpi as well as from international destinations like China, HongKong, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore.

For a list of ferry schedules between Cebu and Manila, Bohol (Tagbilaran and Tubigon), Leyte (Ormoc and Maasin), Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, and Ozamiz, read here :

Cebu Ferry Schedules

Mactan airport to cebu city.

Cebu Mactan Bridge

Mactan International Airport is about 45 minutes to 1 hour away from Cebu City proper.

I usually take a regular cab from the airport to South Bus Terminal (since I stay at my uncle’s place in southern Cebu) and normally by taxi meter the fare is around PHP 200 to PHP 250 (USD 4 – USD 5) from Mactan airport to Cebu city center. I’ve tried using the Yellow/Airport Taxi before and it was about PH 300 (USD 6) to South Bus Terminal.

The Taxi Line is located outside the arrival area, a few steps away on the right side.  Ask the guards if you can’t see it.

To skip the long lines at the regular taxi line, I used Grab on my latest trip. You can book through the app, there is a free WiFi at Mactan Airport (and yes it is working), feel free to use that. Or you can simply walk outside the arrival area of the airport, then turn right where you can find a Grab booth beside the regular taxi line and the yellow taxi line. Grab from Mactan Airport to South Bus Terminal costs me PHP 220  (USD 4.40) + PHP 50 (USD 1)  for booking fee.

Alternatively, from Mactan International Airport, you can ride the bus called MyBus to SM Cebu City, fare is PHP 25.  However, cash is not accepted so you have to purchase a card worth PHP 200, you can use the remaining credit on other MyBus rides (see schedule and routes below). MyBus is available from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM only at Mactan International Airport.

Once you are at SM Cebu, you can get a regular metered taxi to your destination.

MYBUS SCHEDULE and ROUTES

Mybus fare: .

Regular: PHP  25 (USD 0.50)

Student: PHP 20 (USD 0.40)

Senior Citizen/PWD: PHP 20 (USD 0.40)

MYBUS FARE FOR TALISAY – CEBU, CEBU-TALISAY

Regular: PHP 40

Student: PHP 32

Senior Citizen/PWD: PHP 32

♦  If you have booked a hotel , ask your hotel about airport transfer, a van usually picks up their guests at Mactan International Airport.  See suggested Cebu hotels below.

BY MULTICAB/ JEEPNEY

Commuting by jeep to downtown Cebu from Mactan Airport is possible, however it will eat up your time.  Here’s how to do it, in case you want to still try it. Once you get out of Mactan International Airport, you can walk towards the other building (Departure Hall) and ride the yellow multi-cab to Marina Mall (Save More).   Tell the driver you are getting off at Marina Mall and to drop you there.  Fare is about PHP 8 (USD 0.16), it will only take about 10 minutes.

At Marina Mall, cross the highway and once you are on the other side, hail a jeepney en route Park Mall.  Fare is PHP 8 (USD 0.16). The trip may take about an hour due to traffic . At Park Mall you can ride a multi-cab to downtown Cebu.  Just ask the dispatchers there for the right jeepney. If you want to go to Colon Street or North Bus Terminal, take the jeep with 01K signboard.  You can refer to this helpful website for jeepney routes in Cebu.

From Mactan International Airport Hall in Cebu, cross to the other building (Departure Hall) and exit.  Look for the yellow multi-cab outside.  Tell the driver you are getting off at Marina Mall (Save More).  Fare is PHP 8 (USD 0.16) and travel time is about 5-10 minutes only, a short ride.

Once you are at Marina Mall, cross to the other side of the road and hail a jeep to Mandaue Highway. If you hear the dispatchers shouting “Highway”, that is most likely the jeepney.  Fare is PHP 8 (USD 0.16). Tell the driver you are getting off at corner A. S Fortuna and Mandaue Highway, landmark is Jollibee.

At Mandaue Highway, ride a jeepney en route to Ayala Mall and from there, you can look for the jeepney terminal that will take you to downtown Cebu.  Ask the dispatchers or refer to the website mentioned above.

GETTING AROUND CEBU CITY

Traffic in Cebu can be annoying, reminiscent of Manila traffic.  Avoid traveling on peak hours (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) when locals go to school or work and when they go home in the afternoon (5:30 PM to 8:00 PM), especially on Friday.  Also avoid going to South Cebu on holidays (Christmas, New Year and during Sinulog festival), when people tend to go to their hometown as the passenger line at South Bus Terminal can be really long.

Getting around Cebu City by public transportation like jeepney and multicab is possible, but quite complex for a first-timer tourist. If you plan on commuting, you can check this helpful site for jeepney routes.   Take note though that even though it is cheap, it will eat up your time as you need to wait for the right number/route of  multicab or jeepney.  The jeepney and multicabs in Cebu are generally small, so if you have a large backpack with you or large luggage, just take a cab, it will save you time.

That is why I would recommend taking a taxi instead or use Grab.  Usually costs me PHP 70 (USD 1.41) -PHP 120 (USD 2.42) to get to my destination around the city.

Most taxi drivers in Cebu use the meter (except the notorious cabs at Pier 1 who tend to take advantage of tourists by offering pakyaw rides).  Take note that the city implements a strict rule where only maximum of 4 passengers plus the driver is allowed.

CEBU CITY BUS TERMINALS

There are two bus terminals in Cebu : North Bus Terminal (if you are going to northern Cebu destinations like Malapascua , Bantayan  and if you want to cross to Bacolod ) and South Cebu Terminal (if you are going to southern Cebu like Oslob, Osmena Peak, Toledo  and Moalboal or if you want to cross to Dumaguete ). I recommend taking Ceres Bus, the yellow bus instead of the small colorful bus so you can sit comfortably.

DIY CEBU CITY TOUR

In this travel blog, I will also discuss how to do a DIY tour of Cebu whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with a group.  I’ve tried solo backpacking in Cebu before and it is  manageable even if commuting in the city is quite complicated.

  BY CAR RENTAL

• Comfortably discover the best spots and activities in Cebu with this full day car charter
• Choose from three different vehicles, depending on your needs: a modern, an Asian Utility Vehicle, and a van
• Travel with ease in a well-maintained vehicle driven by qualified and experienced chauffeurs
• Plan your own perfect day and visit the best and most popular areas on the island!
• Enjoy a convenient pick up and drop off service at your hotel

BY HIRED MOTORBIKE

From jy square mall to busay.

Recently, attractions in and near Busay , Cebu like Temple of Leah and Tops and Sirao Peak and Taoist Temple Cebu have dominated social media.  For budget travelers, you can visit these places by habal-habal (motorbike), although for safety reasons, I’d recommend getting there by taxi or car instead.

So how to get to JY Square Mall from downtown Cebu City?  You can ride a jeep with signboard “Route 04L”, tell the driver you are getting off at JY Square Mall.  You can also take a jeep en route to JY Square Mall in front of University of San Carlos.  Or just simply ride a cab or Grab Taxi to take you there.

In front of JY Square Mall, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle) for PHP 50 (USD 1) -PHP 75 (1.51) per person one way or PHP 100 (USD 2) – PHP 150 (USD 3)  round trip to Temple of Leah from JY Mall.  Some drivers might also negotiate to take you to the 4 attractions: Taoist Temple , Temple of Leah , Tops and Sirao Peak for PHP 700 (USD 14) -PHP 1,000 (USD 20.19), good for two.  This is a good price already considering the attractions are far from each other and it’s an uphill ride.  There is no fixed price so negotiate and agree on the price before embarking on the motorcycle tour.  Some may charge a waiting time fee. Do respect the driver’s time, do not make them wait too long.  If you wish to go to Magellan’s Cross and do the Old Cebu Walking Tour,  going back, you can ask the driver to drop you off  at Fort  San Pedro to start your tour.  See DYI Cebu Tour below.

IMPORTANT:   Be warned that some motorcycle drivers at JY Square Mall are reportedly taking advantage of tourists, make sure you talk about the price before riding as some may charge extra for the wait time. Agree on the price before hiring the habal-habal,  you both need to agree how long should be the wait time, there are several motorcycles there so you can always pick.

DIY CEBU WALKING TOUR

You can do a walking tour of the Old Cebu starting at Fort San Pedro and ending at Casa Gordon .  Read my detailed guide here with map: DIY Cebu Walking Day Tour Guide .

For safety reasons, be careful and watch your belongings.  Don’t flaunt your camera or phone while walking, this area is notorious for snatchers.  I was able to the walking tour alone, I just made sure to keep my DSLR inside my bag when I’m not taking photos of the tourist attractions and while walking.

MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS IN CEBU CITY

♦  BUSAY AND AROUND ♦

  temple of leah.

Temple of Leah Address:  Roosevelt Street, Busay, Cebu City

Temple of Leah Entrance fee: PHP 50 (USD 1) per person

Temple of Leah Open Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM

TOPS LOOK OUT

Tops Lookout Entrance fee: PHP 100 (USD 2)

SIRAO PEAK / SIRAO FLOWER GARDEN / CELOSIA FLOWER FARM

  Sirao Flower Farm Entrance Fee: PHP 30 (USD 0.61)

Take note that there are two gardens here, the original Sirao Peak Garden that is more picturesque and with their trademark windmill is on the further side.  Once you see the first Sirao Peak Garden, continue driving until you reach the original garden.

TAOIST TEMPLE

Cebu Taoist Temple Address: Beverly Hills Subdivision of Cebu City

Cebu Taoist Temple Entrance Fee: Free

Cebu Taoist Temple Open Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

♦ DOWNTOWN CEBU (OLD CEBU) ♦

  FORT SAN PEDRO

Fort San Pedro Entrance Fee: PHP 30 / USD  0.61 (adults), PHP 20 / USD 0.40 (students),  PHP 24 /USD 0.48 (Senior Citizen)

Fort San Pedro Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

PLAZA INDEPENDENCIA

MAGELLAN’S CROSS

Entrance Fee: Free

Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

STO.NIÑO CHURCH AND MUSEUM

CEBU METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL

CATHEDRAL MUSEUM OF CEBU

Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral Museum Entrance Fee: PHP 55/USD 1.11 (adults), PHP 25 / USD 0.50  (children), PHP 100/USD 2 (foreigners)

Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral Museum Open Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.

PLAZA HAMABAR (RAHAJ HUMABON MONUMENT)

HERITAGE OF CEBU MONUMENT

PARIAN/COLON STREET

YAP-SAN DIEGO ANCESTRAL HOUSE

Yap-san Diego Ancestral House Entrance Fee: PHP 50

Yap-san Diego Ancestral House Open Hours : 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

CASA GORORDO MUSEUM

Casa Gorordo Museum Entrance Fee: PHP 50/ USD 1 (adults), PHP 70/ USD 1.51 (foreigners), PHP 15/USD 0.30 (Students)

Casa Gorordo Museum Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  WHERE TO STAY IN CEBU CITY

While most popular attractions can be found in downtown Cebu, tourists prefer to stay in the uptown area around Fuente Osmena. Here’s a list of Cebu hotels for you to choose from.

ABC Hotel Cebu

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

Adelfa Hotel

Cebu R Hotel – Capitol

101 Don Mariano Cui Street, Capitol Site, Cebu City

Hotel Elizabeth Cebu

Archbishop Reyes Avenue, Camputhaw, Cebu City

Quest Hotel & Conference Center – Cebu

Archbishop Reyes Avenue, Cebu City

Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu

Punta Engano Lapu-Lapu, Mactan Island, Cebu

Best Western Plus Lex Cebu

  CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

WHERE TO EAT IN CEBU

Don Mariano Cui St, Cebu City, Cebu

Open Hours : 2:00 PM to 3:00 AM

Yakski Barbecue

268-B Don Mariano Cui St, Cebu City

Open Hours: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM to 12:00 AM

 Ayer’s Lechon 1377 V. Rama Avenue Guadalupe, Cebu City Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Rico’s Lechon

Cabahug St, Cebu City, Cebu

Open Hours : 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

CNT Lechon V Rama Ave, Cebu City, Cebu Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Cebu’s Lechon Belly (Boneless Lechon) Parkmall 2nd Floor, Al Fresco 4, Mantawe Avenue, Mandaue City Opne Hours: 24 hours  

La Vie Parisienne

Ayala Center Cebu, Archbishop Reyes Ave. Cebu Business Park

Open Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

176 Archbishop Reyes Avenue

Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu Business Park

  WHERE TO BUY SOUVENIRS IN CEBU CITY

Tabo-an Market

Address:  T. Abella st. cor. B. Aranas st., Brgy. San Nicolas Proper, Cebu City

Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM , some stores are open until 7:00 PM

SAMPLE CEBU CITY ITINERARY

SAMPLE CEBU CITY TRIP BUDGET

• Hotel, airfare and food not included in the sample budget. You can get an AC room at decent hotels for as low as PHP 1,000/USD 20  per night.  See suggested hotels above.

ESTIMATED TAXI FARE IN CEBU CITY

Here’s a list of estimated fare when taking a taxi to certain attractions in Cebu City.

CEBU CITY TRAVEL TIPS

• Attend Sinulog Festival, one of the biggest festivals in the Philippines happening January each year.
• Be careful of your cellphones and belongings when riding jeepneys / multicabs or when touring around downtown Cebu.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

Osmena peak + kawasan travel guide, casino peak, travel guide : swimming with the whale sharks in oslob, moalboal travel guide, things to do in dumaguete , siquijor travel guide, bohol travel guide.

About the Blogger : Gael is a Filipina travel blogger. Her work has appeared in local and international publications.

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26 comments.

GOOD INFO… HAPPY TO READ YOUR BLOG.. KEEP IT UP!!

Thanks very nice blog

Love this blog. So informative and organized. Will surely save this. More travels to you!

Hi Charmaine, thank you so much. Cheers to more travels! 🙂

This is a very good blog! Thank you for this! I will surely use this as our guide. We have plans going here with my family this year for a budget travel :-), I would like to ask if you also have experience using Airbnb as well?

we would like to travel in cebu for the first time and we need a bit of help how to organise our tour. we are looking to travel on April 7-April 15 thanks for your help

Great blog! Very informative as usual. I would just want to point out that Toledo route buses can be found in South Bus Terminal and not in the North Bus Terminal.

Oh yeah, thanks, Jayson. I took that route en route to Negros once.

thank you for your guide! 🙂

Welcome. Enjoy Cebu!

Thank you for this extensive guide! Great job!

welcome. have fun!

Thanks for the great blog! Can you advice me on my itinerary: *Start 6AM – Commute *7AM to 1PM: 1. Fort San Pedro 2. Magellan’s Cross 3. Basilica Menor Del Sato Niño 4. Colon Street 5. Casa Verde (Lunch) 6. JY Square Mall (Find rent a car for next destinations) *1PM to 6PM: 1. Cebu Taoist Temple 2. Temple of Leah 3. Terrazas De Flores 4. Sirao Garden 5. Tops (Sunset) *Take 8PM Bus to Moalboal (Bato bia “Barili”)

Thanks for the itinerary! Very helpful. Will be there in August for IM70.3 Cebu and planning to explore the city after the event.

Great blog! Complete details! You’re just so fantastic! A big help though 😊 Thank you and may God bless you!

thank you for your blog..i just booked my flight to cebu this november… and i am a solo traveler i wish there are many kind people there to guide me..heheheh anyway thank you.. 🙂

enjoy Cebu! 🙂

Your blog is super helpful..were here at cebu and going back to manila tom..

glad was able to help! 🙂

I believe this is very helpful.! We will be travelling to Cebu this coming October and it will be our first time. We are looking forward to this trip. 🙂

Thank you for sharing. God bless! <3

Welcome. Have fun!

Been there last year! 🙂

Very comprehensive post, lovely city with great people. Highly recommended to visit.

This is very helpful! Thanks to you! 🤩 Very excited to visit Cebu 😍

welcome. enjoy!

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » Cebu

10 BEST Places to Visit in Cebu (2024)

The Filipino island of Cebu is the biggest island in the Visayas. Long and narrow, the island is 196 kilometres (122 miles) long and just 32 kilometres (20 miles) across at its widest area.

Fringed with sandy beaches and covered with undulating mountains and hills, much of the island is undeveloped. There are, however, interesting towns and villages with splendid remnants from the Spanish colonial period and a variety of Cebu attractions.

Plus, there are plenty of outdoor adventures and areas of natural beauty to enjoy in Cebu Island. One of the most ethnic-diverse islands in the Philippines, Cebu is vibrant and a popular place for tourism.

While Cebu’s most touristy areas are well promoted, it can be difficult to feel as though you’ve experienced a more authentic side of day-to-day Filipino life on the island. What if you want to escape the crowds?

No problem! That’s why I put together this terrific list of the best places to visit in Cebu to help you plan a fabulous and diverse trip. It includes both popular hotspots and hidden gems, letting you really dig beneath the surface of this Southeast Asian island jewel.

I’m sure that these best places to visit in Cebu will have you yearning to book your trip ASAP!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Cebu:

These are the best places to visit in cebu, faq on the best places to visit in cebu, a few more of the best places to visit in cebu.

Surrounded by coral reefs, Moalboal one of the best places to visit in Cebu for divers and snorkelers. Here you can explore colourful coral and swim with exotic fish in crystal clear turquoise waters.

• Bask in the sunshine at beautiful and quiet White Beach.
• Don’t miss the “sardine run,” where you’ll see thousands of fish take over the area.
• Strap on your snorkel and discover what lives on Cebu’s hard and soft coral reefs.

So with accommodation and safety tips covered, let’s discover the best places to visit in Cebu!

Before you begin your journey into the magic below, check out some of the best hostels in Cebu ! You’ll need a place ready to rest your feet after a long day exploring. Now, let’s get going…

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#1 – Busay – Great place to visit in Cebu for couples!

• Stunning flower gardens
• Picture-perfect views so  take your camera
• Unusual temple
• Romantic vibe

Why it’s awesome: Located a short distance from Cebu City, Busay is a charming town with plenty of ways for couples to find romance. With not just one but two gorgeous flower gardens to enjoy, there are beautiful photo opportunities too.

The mountainous setting adds further to the allure, and visitors will find delightful places to eat and drink that offer stunning views of the surroundings. A large temple complex (built to celebrate one man’s love for his wife) and a cool lookout point add to the diversity. There are also lovely resorts where couples can spend a night or two.

What to do there: Take time to stroll at leisure through the stunning Sirao Flower Gardens and the Terrazas de Flores. The former is often nicknamed Little Amsterdam because of its Dutch-like appeal.

Admire the views from the elevated position, walk through the colourful flowers, snap pictures of the windmill, and grab refreshments in the café. Terrazas de Flores is said to the country’s first-ever flower terraces, and you’re sure to be suitably impressed as you feast your eyes on the steps of floral beauty.

Relax in a lakeside cabana and wander along the walkways. Soak up the vistas from Tops Lookout, a great place to appreciate Cebu City’s skyline. The Temple of Leah was constructed to honour the wife of an entrepreneur (and brother of a famous actress) called Teodorico Adarna.

The monument of love has striking Greek and Roman influences and is one of the most eye-catching and major landmarks in Cebu. Visitors can explore the vast complex, complete with an art gallery, many statues (including a larger-than-life image of Leah herself), a library, and a museum housing a number of the late Leah’s personal items.

#2 – Balamban – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Cebu

• Adventure activities
• Natural setting
• Free camping
• Mountain trails

Why it’s awesome: Balamban is really coming into its own as one of the most popular tourist hotspots and one of the best places to visit in Cebu. The hilly town is around an hours’ drive from Cebu City, making it a prime weekend getaway for locals looking to have fun in nature.

If time is limited it’s day-trippable from the city, though it really is worth planning to spend at least a night to fully make the most of the town’s attractions. There are adventures galore to suit any thrill-seeker, though those seeking a peaceful ambience or romantic air will also not leave disappointed.

What to do there: Spend a few hours getting your adrenaline pumping at Adventure Café, with caving, zip-lining, climbing, and repelling. Admire the waterfall too and call into the restaurant for a delicious meal.

At Baguio de Cebu Eco Mountain Adventures you can enjoy activities like horse riding, zip-lining, and hiking, and it’s free to camp here if you have your own tent.

Get active in the great outdoors and go hiking and climbing at the scenic Mt. Mauyog, and follow the picturesque Foressa Trails, both by foot or by bike. Camping is also available.

Take a free tour of D’ Village Antique House, a top budget attraction when visiting Cebu, and admire the interesting antiques housed within.

#3 – Badian – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Cebu

• Popular waterfall
• Beautiful beaches
• Outdoor adventures
• Water sports

Why it’s awesome: Sitting next to the Tanon Strait in Cebu southwest, the town of Badian provides easy access to a number of splendid natural gems.

There are beautiful beaches and interesting mangroves and Badian boasts one of the most famous places in Cebu: the stunning Kawasan Falls which is a must-do if you have 3 days in Cebu.

The nearby Badian Island is accessible from the town too and the small island falls under the town’s administration. Various water sports and land activities are available in Badian and it is often considered a Cebu must-do for travellers.

What to do there: Follow the gentle 15-minute walk from the road to the sublime Kawasan Falls, a Cebu must-see. Swim in the refreshing aquamarine waters, marvel at the sights, and take plenty of pictures of the natural wonder.

You can climb up the different levels, with the higher levels offering fewer crowds. More adventurous travellers can also have a go at canyoning in the surroundings. Bask on the sandy shores of the free public beach of Lambug Beach and enjoy the clear, blue waters and soft white sands.

Explore the small coves and spot interesting rock formations. Take a trip to Badian Island for more lovely beaches and to enjoy activities like snorkelling and scuba diving.

See crabs scuttling across the mud in the mangroves and observe various marine birds. Go hiking in the Badian Mountains for terrific views. The Church of Santiago Apostle is also well worth a quick stop while in Badian.

#4 – Cebu City – A great place to see in Cebu if you love architecture

• Island capital
• Spanish colonial heritage
• History and culture
• Shopping and nightlife

Why it’s awesome: Cebu City is the capital of Cebu Island and the main regional centre of the Central Visayas. The second-largest city in the Philippines (after Manilla), it has a long and colourful history and is one of the most popular areas to stay in Cebu .

It was once the capital city of the Philippines and is the oldest city in the country. It was also the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines and is often thought of as the place where Christianity was born in Southeast Asia.

Today, it has lots of interesting architecture from the Spanish colonial period, including gorgeous churches and interesting monuments such as Fort San Pedro.

The city hosts a number of significant festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including those that are religious in nature and those that celebrate music. The type of music known as BisRock was born in Cebu City.

Visitors will also find great opportunities for some retail therapy in the city’s malls and markets. Although many travellers see Cebu City city simply as a transit point for reaching other parts of the island, it is well worth adding a few days in the city to any Cebu itinerary.

What to do there: Visit the Basilica del Santo Nino, which is the oldest Catholic place of worship in the Philippines. Established in the mid-1560s, the church is still an active place of worship today. It has a glorious façade, stunning stained glass, old artwork, and a spiritual vibe.

Don’t miss the church’s museum too, where you can see an interesting array of historic objects. The baby doll Jesus, brought to the island from Spain, is the island’s oldest religious treasure, and seeing it is among the most unusual things to do in Cebu. The nearby Magellan’s Cross is another fascinating historic religious site.

Learn more about Cebu Island’s religious history at the lesser-visited Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral and get insights into Chinese religious practices and beliefs at the colourful Taoist Temple. Climb the steps to reach the serene temple and admire the brilliant views.

Another of the major landmarks in Cebu City, the Provincial Capitol was constructed during the American era and was modelled after the White House.

Travel back in time at Fort San Pedro, built by the Spanish in the 1730s to defend the city against Muslim attackers. You can see items salvaged from a shipwreck in the small museum in Fort San Pedro too.

Other great places where you can peer into the past and learn more about times gone by include Cebu Heritage Monument, Cebu Provincial Museum, Yap Sandiego Ancestral House, Casa Gorordo Museum, and the 1730 Jesuit House.

Discover the city’s musical heritage at Jose R. Gullas Halad Museum. Experience local life with a stroll along the bustling Colon Street, complete with market stalls and food vendors, and the colourful Taboan Public Market.

Escape the heat and enjoy air-conditioned comfort in the large malls; Ayala Center Shopping Mall, SM Seaside, and SM City Cebu are among the biggest and best. You’ll also find a quirky art gallery or two in this area showcasing the best of Philippeano art.

Top family-friendly Cebu attractions include Crocolandia (where you can spot crocodiles, deer, birds, and other creatures), the charming Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary, and the action-packed Mountain View Nature Park.

For even more excitement, have a go on the Xtreme Rides at the top of the towering the Crown Regency Cebu. Sample the national dish of Lechon (suckling pig), ride in a horse-drawn carriage (known locally as a tartanilla) through the old streets of Cebu City, and have fun after dark at the bars and clubs around Mango Square.

#5 – Tuburan – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Cebu

• Relaxed atmosphere
• Lesser-visited town
• Many cold springs
• Natural attractions

Why it’s awesome: The sleepy town of Tuburan sees relatively few tourists and is, therefore, a great place to escape the tourist masses and enjoy time exploring one of Cebu’s more offbeat destinations.

Situated in northern Cebu, it was the hometown of Arcadio Maxilom, a beloved hero during the Philippine Revolution when the nation fought for its independence from Spanish rule.

A great destination today for fans of nature and adventure, it has scenic places aplenty, nice beaches, tranquil springs, and picturesque rivers. The town takes its name from the many cold springs found in the surroundings.

What to do there: Relax on sandy beaches and swim in the sea at places like Apalan, Little Baguio Beach of Barangay I Poblacion, and Lungsod Beaches, soak up the stunning vistas from Lantawan Lookout, and get a pick-me-up and caffeine hit at Tuburan Coffee Farm.

Snap a selfie standing next to the gigantic Heritage Tree of Jagbuaya, go kayaking along the Adela River, unwind in Rizal Park, and chill out in Arcadio Maxilom Park.

Trek to Lantawan Cliff and the Marmol Cliffs. The latter are exceptionally eye-catching, with an appearance that looks like marble. A small cut-through with a river passes between the two cliffs.

One of the best activities to enjoy in Tuburan is soaking in the cold springs. Molobolo Spring is a scenic spot with two pools, and Mantawihan Spring offers a less-developed setting.

#6 – Oslob – One of the nicer places in Cebu to sightsee!

• Famous for spotting whale sharks
• Historic architecture
• Beaches and waterfalls
• Family-friendly destination

Why it’s awesome: Situated in the south of the island and next to the Cebu Strait, Oslob is known for being a terrific place to spot whale sharks in the wild .

It attracts many visitors keen to observe the gigantic creatures swimming in the sea. There are a number of other natural Cebu attractions in the vicinity too, including beaches and waterfalls, and visitors can try a variety of water sports and other activities.

Cultural and historic sites add to the diversity, and the town hosts the vibrant Toslob Festival every December (a great addition to and Cebu itinerary for people visiting close to the end of the year). Oslob appeals to families, couples, and friends alike.

What to do there: Watch in awe as gigantic whale sharks swim close to the shore and feed. Despite being the largest fish on the planet, whale sharks are completely harmless to people.

You can even dare to snorkel and swim with the graceful sea giants, though do be sure to follow ethical practices and comply with conservation advice, such as fully removing all sun cream before entering the waters and not touching the creatures.

The nearby coral island of Sumilon offers more underwater encounters, with snorkelling and diving. Spend time at the beautiful Tumalog Falls, where you can swim in the refreshing waters under the 91-metre-tall (300-foot-tall) cascades.

The Aguinid Falls has a greenish tinge, thanks to the high calcium content of the water, and are another great place to swim and admire the natural beauty.

Wander through Oslob town and see the diverse and historic architecture, including the 1848 coral-built Immaculate Concepcion Parish Church, the 1788 watchtower, and the ruins of unfinished barracks.

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#7 – Medellin – An awesome place to visit in Cebu for half a day!

• Exciting activities
• Wildlife and nature
• Eco-tourism
• White sand beaches

Why it’s awesome: You’ll find exciting Medellin northern Cebu. Often referred to as the sugar bowl of Cebu because of a large sugar factory in the locale, Medellin is also a top place for adventure activities and eco-tourism.

There’s a great selection of places to stay, many of which offer a peaceful ambiance in a natural setting. When it comes to cool things to do and heaps of fun, Medellin has something for everyone.

What to do there: Take long, relaxing strolls along the scenic seafronts at Kawit and Mahawak, pausing to enjoy the powdery white sands and soak up the views. Explore the underwater world at Discovery Reef.

Cross the series of bridges that connect Medellin with the rocks and islets of Gibitngil Island. Perched atop rock formations, you can also get a buzz with a go on the zip line. For even more thrills, head to Zipaway, an exhilarating eco-adventure park in the hills of Caputatan Norte.

The adventures are reasonably priced and you can soar through the skies on the long zip lines and brave the exciting Tarzan Swing. Ride the cable car for a more leisurely view of the surrounding sugar cane fields and coco plantations.

Perfect your swing and play a few rounds at Mercedes Plantation Golf Course and Country Club, kayak through the mangroves at the pretty Dagusungan River, and enjoy a trip along the scenic Spanish-era Dayhaganon Canal.

If you have more time to spend, you can take a boat trip to Bantayan isla n d which is a beautiful island known for its fishing community. Bantayan island also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines.

#8 – Catmon – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Cebu!

• Off the beaten track
• Peaceful atmosphere
• Family-friendly water park
• Quiet beaches and waterfalls

Why it’s awesome: Catmon is a blissfully under-visited town in northern Cebu. Despite relatively few visitors including Catmon when they explore Cebu, it’s a great place for anyone seeking a fantastic combination of adventures and relaxation, gorgeous views, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Offering something for all kinds of traveller and people of all ages, Catmon boasts beautiful waterfalls, springs, and beaches, as well as a cool waterpark that’s perfect for fun-filled family days out.

What to do there: Visit the splendid Ka-Tinggo Falls, a gorgeous hidden gem that will really bring a smile to your face when you travel to Cebu’s quiet town of Catmon.

Known to just a few locals, the waterfall is a fantastic place for adventure lovers—you will need to swim, hike, climb, and crawl to reach the natural marvel. The journey may be a challenge but the endpoint is more than worth it!

Cross the suspended bridge and snap stunning pictures, swim in the deep waters, spot an array of nature and wildlife, jump from the jagged cliffs, and go fishing.

Soothe away any stresses and strains in the nearby Esoy Hot Spring, with mineral-rich waters and a calming ambiance. Take the kids to Imelda Aroma Waterpark, where you can enjoy a variety of pools, slides, and other water attractions in a lush, natural setting.

#9 – Moalboal – One of the most romantic places to visit in Cebu!

• Popular tourist hotspot
• Awesome beaches
• Good nightlife
• Underwater adventures

Why it’s awesome: Moalboal is an enticing destination and is one of the best hotspots in Cebu for water lovers. The seaside area boasts splendid beaches and a great assortment of places to eat, drink, and sleep.

It’s especially popular with couples looking for a romantic escape. Sitting alongside the Tanon Strait, there’s also a diverse selection of water sports on offer.

The nearby Pescador Island (part of the municipality of Moalboal) offers even more underwater fun, and visitors can explore the charming fishing communities after which the island takes its name.

Oh, and did I mention? Moalboal has some awesome hostels . They are the best; rest assured, you’re guaranteed the finest stay.

What to do there: Soak up the sunshine and views from Moalboal’s terrific beaches. With some of the best beaches in all of Cebu, you can spend hours lazing on soft white sands and swimming in clear, blue waters.

The main beach, Basdaku White Beach, stretches for around a kilometre (0.6 miles), and you can enjoy activities such as surfing, kite surfing, fishing, snorkelling, and boating.

Check out Panagsama Beach to experience the unusual and exciting sardine run , when thousands of small fish frolic in the shallow waters each day, and to spot sea turtles.

Dive and snorkel around coral reefs that are teeming with marine life off the shores of Pescador Island. Dine on fresh and delicious seafood dishes and enjoy the area’s beachfront bars in the evening, with both lively and laid-back joints to appeal to different tastes and moods.

#10 – Argao – One of the most underrated places to see in Cebu

• Interesting architecture
• Local vibes
• Scenic waterfall

Why it’s awesome: Although easy to get to from Cebu City, Argao is something of an underrated gem in Cebu. It is a terrific place to take a break from the bustle of the city and explore somewhere a bit different to the norm.

Despite being a small and quiet town, Argao has a lot to offer to adventurous travellers who step away from the tried-and-trodden track. The simplicity and slow pace of life really adds to the untouched and undiscovered atmosphere.

There are natural splendours and historic and cultural sites, and visitors can immerse themselves in everyday Cebuano life. The town is somewhat famous for a particular type of cake, and there’s a yearly festival to honour the cake’s Spanish heritage.

What to do there: Absorb the relaxed air with a wander around the town, and visit the local architectural landmarks. St. Michael the Archangel Church is a Baroque beauty. Built in the 1780s, it has an impressive façade and glorious interiors.

Casa Real (or, Argao City Hall) is one of the oldest city halls in Cebu. Dating back to the colonial era, it’s a great place to peer back into the past. You can also travel back in time at Argao Hall of Justice, previously used as a school and accommodation for soldiers.

Call into the quaint Alex Kafe to see a collection of historic memorabilia and enjoy a tasty meal.

Let your eyes adjust to the gloom as you enter the gigantic cave of Balay sa Agta and admire the various rock formations as you make your way along the 480- metre-long (1,574-foot-long) cavern.

Keep your eyes peeled for Macao, a mythical beast said to live in the live! Bats and insects are more run-of-the-mill cave dwellers you might also see.

Plunge into the cooling waters of the scenic Bugasok Falls and take time out to relax at Mahayahay Beach. If you visit in September, you can watch people skimboarding on the small waves. Try the local torta, made using coconut wine.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Cebu

What are the beautiful spots in Cebu?

Cebu is stunning as a whole, but head to Badian to see the impressive Kawasan Falls as well as some incredible beaches.

What are the places to visit in Cebu for couples?

The charming town of Busay with it’s beautiful flower gardens and temples is a great romantic location for couples.

What are some of the best places to visit in Cebu at night?

The seaside town of Moalboal offers some of the best nightlife on the island as well as some great beaches for the morning after!

What are some affordable places to visit in Cebu?

Cebu is super cheap, but take advantage of the natural wonders such as the stunning beaches near Oslob, that you can visit for free.

Dalaguete is a beautiful and scenic place to check out in Cebu, with several stunning peaks (including the island’s highest of Osmeña Peak).

Sibonga offers an olde-worlde vibe and Danao is one of the most religious places to see in Cebu.

Islands like Mactan and Malapascua are perfect places to enjoy water sports and discover the treasures of the ocean deep, while Olango Island is a great place for keen ornithologists.

Samboan has a number of hidden gems, including Binalayan Falls and Ponong Lake.

Whether visiting Cebu alone, with your family, with friends, or as part of a couple, there are many great experiences to be found. Refer to this list of the best places to visit in Cebu for an awesome vacation in the Philippines!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Rhenz Caguioa

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thank you for sharing this, I really like your blog post. Looking forward to traveling to Cebu 🙂

i had the pleasure to visit the city at christmas time and i had a whale of a time i could go to mactan island and other places nearby such as Lapu lapu and Danao city

i would recommend warmly to drop by this rental shop: book2wheel which is the best place to book a motorcycle for cheap

i think i’m gonna go back there again but in july maybe

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