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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » Cebu

The BEST Cebu Itinerary in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)

Years of staring at attractive screensavers have left us all craving balmy shores and seawater clearer than Evian. Time to submit?!?

GREAT CHOICE.

The Filipino island of Cebu makes Microsoft so frickin’ horny, and heading to this island paradise is an exceptional decision .

But what should you do? Where should you go? And why are you being stroked by a small squadron of genderless dwarfs?

I will be answering 2/3 of these questions in my sensational Cebu Itinerary ,  written for the sole purpose of letting you get on with the most important holidaying aspect.  Actually enjoying it. 

Let’s dive in!

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A Little bit about this 3-Day Cebu Itinerary

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Are you a well-established person of means? A family on a mission to avoid each other? A scruffy tween intent on backpacking southeast Asia like it’s the 80s? or just looking for what to do in Cebu for 3 days?

Welcome! For I’m about to indulge you in a masterclass of itinerary post planning, filled with the top beaches, Island hopping and places to visit in the whole of the Cebu province…

This itinerary will take you through a sensational 3-days, exploring the very best that Cebu can offer. It’s easy to spend a week or more in Cebu, so don’t get caught up in the office politics of accidentally on purpose taking some extra holiday. Scuba diving session maybe?

Anyway, this itinerary is bristling, and comes with suggested routes, times and tips for each stop along the timeline. Feel free to swap stuff around, change the timings, whatever, but use what I’ve written! Just remember an awesome place to stay .

3-Day Cebu Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: The Sirao Garden | Mountain View Nature Park | The Temple of Leah | The Kabang Falls | Cebu Taoist Temple | The Carbon Market
• Day 2: Osmeña Peak | Kawasan Falls Canyoneering | Kansanto Spring | Panagsama Beach | White Beach Moalboal
• Day 3: Ferry to Tagbilaran City (Bohol Island) | Hinagdanan Cave | (The Kangcaramel Cave) | Bilar Man-Made Forest | Tarsier Conservation Area | The Chocolate Hills

So where should I stay in Cebu ? That is a top question, and one not easily answered, since there are so many gorgeous luxury hotels, relaxing resorts, and hedonistic hostels. Let’s see what we can do!

Moalboal is a must-visit on the island. It’s where you want to be as a tourist. You’ll find picture-perfect beaches, and it’s a great base for visits to Cebu tourist spots, like the Kawasan Falls. Most people will head here as soon as they can.

Cebu City is the oldest city in the Philippines. The city may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some of the other parts of Cebu Island, but it’s a thriving metropolis in an unexpected region of the world. And while there are tourist attractions and things to see, you won’t want to spend much more than a day here. Great Airbnbs though.

Mactan Island is a dream island for underwater enthusiasts. Located adjacent to Cebu City, and connected by bridges, you can find some amazing snorkelling and diving here.  Also known as Lapu-Lapu, this island features white-sand beaches, enchanting marine life, and resorts that suit every type of budget, Mactan has everything!

You can also head to the northern tip of the island at Malapascua. This off-the-radar paradise is home to lavish lagoons and lush jungles, all tied together by exceptionally friendly locals and some truly special places to stay .

Best Hostel in Cebu – Hostel Seven

Hostel Seven is definitely at the top of my list when it comes to the best hostels in Cebu! This space is fun and comfortable and suits every type of traveller whether you’re alone or travelling with your whole family. There is a mixture of shared dorms and private rooms to choose from. There is a 24-hour Bar and Kitchen, with a casual rooftop lounge for you to chill and melt the afternoons away.

Best Airbnb in Cebu – Beautiful condominium

This absolutely stunning Airbnb is the perfect place for your first stay in Cebu. Located centrally, yet in a quiet location, you can walk to the main hot spots in no time, while also being able to enjoy a good nights sleep. The condo is modern and designed in a Japanese style, has an amazing view of the city and gives you access to the rooftop gym as well.

Best Budget Hotel in Cebu – Hop Inn Hotel Cebu City

Free wifi? Desk? Hairdryer? Awesome. Yes, my best-budget hotel has the essentials, and more! In seriousness though, this is actually a top place. It’s only 3 minutes from the Ayala Center Cebu, and a selection of great restaurants. If you want a comfortable, air-conditioned stay that comes at a budget price, then look no further than the Hop Inn Hotel in Cebu City!

Rooms are surprisingly bright, and guests are provided with fantastic front desk service if they’re in need of anything!

Best Luxury Hotel in Cebu – Radisson Blu Cebu

Radisson Blu Cebu is located right in the heart of the thriving Cebu City near to SM City Cebu Mall. Sprawl out at the outdoor pool,  treat yourself to the spa and enjoy professional cuisine at the 3 different restaurants offering authentic Filipino and international dining! The Historical attractions, Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica Minore del Sto Niño, are only a 30-minute drive away. The Rooms feature panoramic views of the city as well as the charming Mactan Harbor.  After a long day in Cebu’s warm sun, you can enjoy cocktails at The Pool Bar and enjoy the company of other guests!

Fantastic, we’ve done the excessively long intro. It’s time now to start munching the main course. My almost-perfect Cebu Itinerary…

The Sirao Garden | Mountain View Nature Park | The Temple of Leah | The Kabang Falls | Cebu Taoist Temple | The Carbon Market

To get you warmed up, I’ve collected the very best in and around Cebu City. There’s a lot to explore, and it’ll give you a great taste of the culture on offer here. Prepare for a top-tier Cebu City day!

You should make the journey to Moalboal in the evening, so get somewhere to stay here !

8:00 am – The Sirao Garden

Okay, for this one we’re going to need you to be a little spritely. Located around half an hour from Cebu City, this is the largest journey you’ll make in the day, and slowly wind your way through an excellent array of attractions back to the city.

The Sirao Gardens are dubbed the ‘little Amsterdam’ of Cebu and are a fantastic insta-worthy spot on the island. It comes with amazing mountain views, pretty flowers, and some generally more questionable attractions (like windmills). If you love pretty places and snapping sensational photos, then this is a great first stop on your Cebu itinerary.

The road here is generally considered a little bit dodgy, but many people do it every year! If you’re driving yourself, remember to take extra care. There’s a viewing deck too.

Enjoy Cebu to the fullest on this tour .  Learn about the history of the Temple of Leah and the Taoist Temple. Explore the beautiful and instagrammable landscapes of Busay Highlands.

• Cost: 100 PHP for adults, 50 PHP for children under 10
• How long should I spend there: Around 1 hour
• Getting there: Taxi or hire car from Cebu City. It’s about a 45-minute drive, so this is an early one!

9:30 am – Mountain View Nature Park

You must be hungry! Time to grab some breakfast at the Mountain View Nature Park Resort!

The epic landscape on Cebu Island has attracted people from around the world. Mountain View Nature Park is tucked in Cebu’s mountainside and in a popular area called Busay. As the name suggests, you will see some of the very best views in the whole of Cebu from Mountain View Nature Park!

Busay has become renowned for its awe-inspiring natural beauty. It is enveloped with indigenous fauna and flora, waterfalls, natural pools and wildlife, encapsulating the magic that mother nature provides. From the mountaintops of Busay, you can see a panoramic view of Cebu City and the surrounding towns.

• Cost: Entrance is 100 PHP ($1.80 USD) for adults and 75 PHP ($1.50 USD) for children
• How long should I spend there: Around 2 hours should be enough to see it all and get some food.
• Getting there: Car back through the hills. Organise with your original taxi driver if you can!

11:30 am – The Temple of Leah

Next up is the unbelievable Temple of Leah, only a 7-minute walk from the previous attraction! This is one of the top architectural constructions on the island. Very Cool!

The Temple of Leah was originally constructed in 2012. It’s a new building that tells an ancient story!  The temple has been built as a shrine to symbolize the undying love and ceaseless devotion that Teodorico Soriano Adarna has for his late wife of 53 years, Leah Villa Albino-Adarna.

The temple was designed to look timeless, channelling the Greek and Roman styles. It is intended to last the ages, hopefully, this beautiful structure does.

After you’ve seen the Temple of Leah, head up to “La Vie in the Sky restaurant” for some unreal views across Cebu city whilst you eat lunch. If you fancy something cheaper, there are loads of great options around!

Enjoy Cebu to the fullest on this tour . Learn about the history of the Temple of Leah and the Taoist Temple. Explore the beautiful and instagrammable landscapes of Busay Highlands and more!

• Cost: Entrance is free
• How long should I spend there: It shouldn’t take more than an hour to see.
• Getting there: Walk down the hill from the last stop! 7 minutes. I promise.

1:30 pm – The Kabang Falls

What does everyone need after lunch? A nice hike! Yes. Feel free to switch this out with the Terrazas de Flores Botanical Gardens for a much more relaxed post-lunch experience.

Kabang Falls is a must-see attraction that is found within Budlaan in Cebu City. One of the intriguing parts of this stunning waterfall is that it is only accessible from the city.

Reconnect with nature by hiking up to Kabang Falls. Once you arrive it’s so much fun to just dive into the fresh water and laze on the rocks, soak in some sun and refresh yourself after a long day with the soothing surroundings of nature and the flowing energy of the waterfall.

 Insider Tip: Pack water with you the weather is hot here and you will want to stay hydrated!

• Cost: The habal-habal ride will cost around 70 – 75 PHP ($1.70 USD)
• How long should I spend here? Around an hour and a half. Bring some snacks and a drink? Don’t litter.
• Getting there: It’s a 13-minute drive from the Temple of Leah. Taxies are pretty easy to grab around there!

3:30 pm – Cebu Taoist Temple

Check out some amazing Chinese architecture at the Cebu Taoist Temple. A truly awesome place to hang out!

Many Chinese temples have beautiful gardens and placid streams, but the Cebu Taoist Temple will also greet you with an eye-catching giant dragon! The dragon is a famous symbol in China for its good luck, strength, and power. This important building was erected by Cebu’s substantial Chinese community back in 1972, and is composed of two gorgeous temples!

The two temples here are the Phu Sian Temple (which unfortunately is not open to the public), and the Main Temple that is a little walk to get to, being 270 meters above sea level. There are 181 steps leading up to the temple. These steps were originally made to represent the 81 scriptures of Taoism.

The entrance to the temple is a replica of the Great Wall of China, and within the serene grounds you will also find a library, church, and souvenir shop. Inside the temple complex you will have a chance to watch a performance of rituals and learn more about this unique culture and religion found in this area of the Philippines.

  Insider Tip: If you arrive on a Wednesday or Sunday, watch out for the step-climbing ritual that the devotees go on!

• How long should I spend there: 1 hour or less
• Getting there: Take a taxi back towards town. It should be around a half-hour drive

 4:45 pm – The Carbon Market

Join this uber-vibrant and happening market. The Carbon market is a massive conglomeration of all different types of friendly vendors all selling unique and fascinating goods. This market has become a major tourist destination because of the many choices offered and the extremely inexpensive and beautiful souvenirs provided.

The Carbon Market is over 100 years old and named after the nearby Coal depo.  The current location of the market used to be the final station of the railway line, where the “coal mountains” once used to power the steam engines were stored.

Here you can enjoy a variety of products, services, and cuisine. It is a typical Filipino market, so the items offered range all the way from fresh fruit to handcrafted local artwork. Make sure to try out the Filipino food at this market, as you will not get a more traditional experience of Cebu’s flavours. One of the most fun ways to travel around this market is to take a ride on the “karetela”, which is a local horse carriage that tours around the market!

Make sure to grab some dinner, and then head over to Moalboal for tomorrow’s adventures! It’s a long drive, but if you leave at 7:30, you should arrive for 10:30 and have an hour to relax before a big next day!

• Cost: Entrance to the market it free.
• How long should I spend there: around 1 hour should be enough time.
• Getting there: Taxi from the Cebu Taoist Temple. It’s around a 20 minute car journey.

Osmeña Peak | Kawasan Falls Canyoneering | Kansanto Spring | Panagsama Beach | White Beach Moalboal

Moalboal is very special. Today is about swimming with tons of fish, jumping into stunning pools, and enjoying exactly what all great holiday islands should be known for…

I’m still going to exhaust you.

7 am – Osmeña Peak

This is one of the most beautiful places on the entire island, so it’s no wonder that it’s made it onto my list!

Excusing the early start, head up into the mountains and ascend to just over 1000 metres above sea level.

The trek takes between 20 and 30 minutes, so it’s suitable for all ages, and the views are just sensational!

This is an early start, after a full day, so don’t worry if you fancy lying in! However, this viewpoint is actually very special. Don’t miss Osmeña Peak if you have the time! Sunrise is best. Packing breakfast could be a great way to refuel and enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery at the same time.

• Cost: 30 PHP (~$0.80 per person)
• How long should I spend there: Around 1.5 hours
• Getting there: It’s close to an hour’s drive from Moalboal. Enjoy the early wake-up!

10:30 am – Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

What better way to spend a day than canyoneering in the Philippines? This half-day activity beats the heat and will show you some of the prettiest water features on the island.

The landscape has changed significantly following Typhoon Odette, but it is still possible to explore the crystal pools and stunning waterfalls of the area.

This activity usually starts in the morning and finishes with lunch. Make sure you’ve got enough energy before embarking upon this superb Cebu adventure! Definitely pack a chocolate bar or two. The Kawasan Falls are gorgeous, and interacting with the surrounding natural environment will get you even hotter for the Filipino scenery…

• Cost: Around $30. If you just want to see the falls, the price is under a dollar.
• How long should I spend there: 4 hours (half a day)
• Getting there: It’s another hour’s drive from Osmeña Peak sadly. But that will give you time to relax, and maybe brekkie on the move?

3:30 pm – Kansanto Spring

Heading back up the coast, we have the amazing Kansanto Springs (In case you hadn’t had enough of beautiful water features).

This pool is a great place to hang out and have a beer, then investigate the three other pools which are used for fish farming.

There is a bar and lots of tourist/ holiday accommodation around the pool, so it’s very much a known spot. If you fancy staying here for the night then do! It’s easy to be stunningly exhausted at this point…

The pools are simply a nice break on the return journey. If you want to get back to Moalboal and go for a dive or head to the beach, don’t impede your journey with a stop here.

• Cost: 40 PHP (under $1)
• How long should I spend there: Around an hour
• Getting there: It’s a 20-minute drive from Kawasan Falls.

5 pm – Panagsama Beach

Arriving in the late afternoon, exploring the weirdness of Panagsama beach is a must-do from Moalboal, and should be part of every top Cebu itinerary.

Why is it weird? Because there is a distinct lack of sand…

But it is still awesome because the snorkelling here is next level. The Maolboal sardine run can be found here, which is a definite once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Panagsama Beach has a range of tasty restaurants, luxury hotels and bougie resorts (one of which you may be staying in), so if you want to grab dinner here I would not blame you! You can also join dive tours, so if you’re a forward thinker, jump onto a Panagsama Beach scuba diving experience!

• Cost: Free, unless you want to go diving.
• How long should I spend there: Around 2 hours
• Getting there: It’s a half an hour’s car journey from the Kansanto Spring.

7 pm – White Beach Moalboal

Just in time to catch an extraordinary sunset, head to White Beach Moalboal for some relaxation on the beach and a stunning evening meal.

Locals often flock to White Beach, since it is one of the only beaches in the area with an actual contingent of sand. this means it can get quite busy during the daytime.

Thankfully, I’ve picked a time when it should be a little less busy, and there is a range of great restaurants to choose from if you are hungry. The snorkelling on White Beach is pretty good too, but you will most likely miss the chance to do this. Relax, enjoy a beachside supper, and mentally prepare yourself for another super full day tomorrow…

• Cost: Free! Dinner can range from pretty much free to hideously expensive
• Getting there: It’s a 15-minute drive from Panagsama Beach

Hostel Seven

Hostel Seven is definitely at the top of our list when it comes to the best hostels in Cebu! This space is fun and comfortable and suits every type of traveler group, whether you’re alone or traveling with your whole family.

• Free Parking

Ferry to Tagbilaran City (Bohol Island) | Hinagdanan Cave | (The Kangcaramel Cave) | Bilar Man-Made Forest | Tarsier Conservation Area | The Chocolate Hills

The exquisite island of Bohol makes for an exceptional day trip! Home to the Kawasan Falls, the Kangcaramel Cave and, of course, the Mundong Sandbar, you can easily fill up a day…

9:00 am – Ferry to Tagbilaran City (Bohol Island)

The first order of the day is to make your way over to Bohol Island. Part of the Cebu province, this is another large island that contains a sensational collection of great things to do. A Cebu trip without staying in Bohol is only half finished (sorry people).

You will have to make your way back to Cebu City, which will take around 3 hours from Moalboal. You can do this in the evening of the second day, or the morning of today, the third day. Ferries go regularly, and take between 1.5 to 2 hours. Booking is pretty simple, and the ferry isn’t expensive (costs about $17 per person). You should be able to arrive on the Island before midday. It’s a necessary evil to explore the brilliance of the Kebu region!

• Cost: Around $17 per person
• How long should I spend there: 2.5 hours
• Getting there: Drive to the Cebu Port, and hop on a ferry! You can grab the intercity bus (MoalBoal to Cebu City) and then take a taxi to the port if you want to cut costs.

12:00 pm – Hinagdanan Cave

So you’ve arrived in Bohol. You’ve had breakfast on the boat, or presumably at some point during the morning. Now your cultural appetite needs attending to!

We start the day with the Hinagdanan Cave system, which is lit by holes in the cavern roof. There are great samples of stalagmites and stalactites, and there is an underground lagoon in which people used to bathe.

The pools are no longer fed from clean sources, and the water sadly often tests positive for a number of pollutants. This is the Phillippines though, so that doesn’t mean you can’t swim (for an extra 75PHP).

However, the cave themselves offer ample intrigue and interest to provide the morning’s first sightseeing milestone! So despite the slightly dirty water, this is still a great place to visit.

• Cost: Entry is 50 PHP (~$0.90)
• Getting there: It’s a 20-minute car journey (or less) from the ferry port. There are many restaurants, coffee shops etc. if you need to refuel too!

1:30 pm – (The Kangcaramel Cave)

If you’re feeling the cave vibes, why not stop for lunch at the Kangcaramel Cave? (or substitute for the Hinagdanan Cave)

There is a fantastic cafe and garden, and it can nicely break up your Odyssey to the chocolate hills…

A significant bat population is at home in the cave, so if you’re a budding wildlife connoisseur, this might interest you! Whilst the bats aren’t too active in the daytime, it certainly adds a layer of interest to the cave system.

There is a flower farm on-site, and an aviary, which makes this much more than just a cave! Hang out and take some sensational photos in this super bizarre part of the island.

It’s definitely worth having a beer and checking out the flower garden at this brilliant tourist attraction. it’s also relatively unknown, so you won’t have to worry about hoards of tourists!

• Cost: 150 PHP (~$2.70) with bar freebies
• Getting there: 30-minute drive from the Hinagdanan Cave.

3 pm – Bilar Man-Made Forest

As part of a reforestation project, the local government created the Bilar Man-Made Forest!

Whilst not superb for biodiversity, since nearly all the trees are mahogany, it is a stunning place to visit in Cebu and is a very wholesome visit.

The forest stretches for over 2km and is a tunnel of trees that surrounds the road. Because of the uniform nature of the tree line, it’s a place that is constantly used in films, photographs and Instagrams! Watch out for other tourists who come here, as it can get pretty busy. This means the roads are usually slow, as people slow down to take it in.

• How long should I spend there: no more than an hour
• Getting there: It’s an hour’s drive from the Hinagdanan cave or 45 minutes from the Kangcaramel cave.

4 pm – Tarsier Conservation Area

Tarsiers are incredibly cute, furry, and adorable. However, they are nocturnal, so don’t expect them to be super active!

These adorable critters are the symbol of the Bohol province, and multiple sanctuaries have been erected throughout the isle in order to preserve their populations.

The Tarsier Conservation Area imposes rules in order to prevent animal disturbances, so turn off your flash, finish your conversations, and don’t touch them! They’re nocturnal, so it is super unhealthy for them to be woken up.

There are various souvenirs and treats to be had, so if you need some refreshments, don’t hesitate! I know for a fact you can get fresh coconuts when you arrive.

• Cost: 90 PHP (~$1.70)
• Getting there: It’s just up the road from the Bilar man-made forest! 5-minute drive

6 pm – The Chocolate Hills

This is what you really came for! Sunset at the famous Chocolate Hills!

There are at least 1,260 of these amazing formations, although the true number may be closer to 1,700! You’d have thought someone would have counted them by now, but I guess that’s part of the mystique.

The name “Chocolate Hills” comes from the fact that they lose their colour during the dry season, leaving them a chocolatey brown colour. In the wet season, you won’t get the full brown experience, but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t still strange to behold!

These truly amazing geological formations have often been dubbed “the eighth wonder of the world” because they are so incredible!

There is a viewing deck that is worth ascending for a proper view over the majority of the hills, and the site comes with a restaurant for a spectacular chocolate Hills sunset dinner. Nice

• Cost: Free (viewing deck is 50 pesos or ~$0.90)
• How long should I spend there: Around an hour, or 2 hours if you want to stay for dinner!
• Getting there: It takes about 45 minutes to drive from the Tarsier conservation area

So you’re sticking around? Our first piece of advice; chill out on the beach. Take it easy. Then check out these tasty extras!

Cebu Provincial Museum – The Museo Sugbo

The Museo Sugbo is an excellent sight as well as a truly exciting museum! You can venture the massive gallery that is full of both ancient and modern artworks, and admire the sturdy old coral-stone material that was used to create the building.

Originally, this eye-catching and beautiful structure was Cebu’s provincial jail from 1870, and it was only recently transformed into a museum in 2004. Each of the rooms is now dedicated to the different eras in Cebu’s long and captivating history.

This place that was once called “Carcel de Cebu”, the provincial jail of Cebu, has now become a thriving and entertaining Cebu Provincial Museum.

• Cost: The entrance fee is 75 PHP ($1.50 USD)
• H ow long should I spend there: You could spend anywhere from 1 hour to 3 hours there, depending on how much you like history.
• Getting there: Cebu City. There is a bus stop right outside called the Museo Segbo!

Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary and Art Gallery

The Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary was built in 1974 by a passionate Cebuano artist by the name of Julian Jumalon. Whilst he was still alive, he planted many varieties of plants food in his garden that now  attract these rare beauties. This garden has now become one of the most gorgeous butterfly havens in the world, and boasts the oldest butterfly collection in the Philippines!

Whilst walking through the park, you’ll experience a unique and vast garden that provides you with the chance to see all different types of butterflies in a natural spot where they are free to flutter about flaunting their vibrant and eye-catching colors!

Along with the magical experience of the butterfly haven itself, you can also indulge in modern art at the Jumalon Art Gallery or even browse the museum. Learn about each rare breed of butterfly, its story and its origin. These beautiful creatures are majestic and are sure to captivate you as you relax in this paradise.

• Cost: Entrance fee is 50 ($1) for adults and 25 (50 cents) for children.
• Getting there: Taxi, or the University of San Jose Recoletos bus stop is right outside.

The Crown Regency Sky Adventures

Fun in the sun has never been quite so exhilarating! Whether you go during the day, or even during the night whilst the stars are out, you will not be disappointed by this once-in-a-lifetime view and experience! This adventure will take you high up into Cebu’s sky to see the city from a bird’s eye view.

This experience will have your heart thudding as you will be 126.55 meters up! You can also brave the skies by going on the Tower Zip that takes you across two buildings – the country’s first and only urban zip line! The views are outrageous, so it is well worth taking the leap.

For a more chilled and less gravity-defying experience, you can simply go to the 6D movie theatre . It is an in-your-face thrilled adventure complete with rain, wind, bubbles and motion seats to blow you away. After your movie, be sure to check out the Blacklight mini golf course.

• Cost: Entrance fee is from 250 PHP ($4.80 USD) to 1150 PHP ($22 USD) per person.

Fort San Pedro

Travel back in time to 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.

It is the oldest bastion fort in the Philippines and served as the heart of the first Spanish settlement in the country, before it was taken as a Filipino stronghold during the Philippines Revolution in the 19th century.

The fort is not huge, but it’s one of the most important historical landmarks in the city.

• Cost: The entrance fee is 30 PHP ($0.57 USD)
• How long should I spend there: 1 hour should be enough to see it all.
• Getting there: Cebu City. Pier 1 or Osmena Boulevard bus stops.

Being a tropical destination, there is no real cold season as the temperatures are pretty much always high.

From December to February, the weather is at its most pleasant. The sun is consistently shining and the ocean waters are warm. May is the hottest month with the sun hitting its peak, so watch out for extremely hot temperatures, that even last into the night.

Typhoon season is between July and September, you might want to skip these months. If you are keen to watch some of Cebu’s most beautiful big storms, then visit during October, which is Cebu’s wettest month! After October the rain takes a break and it starts to get very dry during April.

Located in the central part of the Philippine archipelago, called the Visayas region, Cebu island consists of the main island and 167 other islands and islets. The island of Cebu itself is long and narrow with coastal plains, vast stretches of rolling and rugged mountain ranges!

In Cebu City you will find that the public transit is made up of taxis and motorbikes, prices are super cheap and it is an excellent way to easily get yourself from place to place! If you enjoy walking, that is easy to do here and you will get a chance to experience street stalls and local life.

If you want to venture further afield, you can take taxis or hire a car. I recommend hiring a car, as the island is quite big and it will make life a lot easier for you to get to the main Cebu tourist spots. You can also use Grab to hire cars and motorbikes. For long distances, it’s best to book your transfer in advance.

If you’re planning to visit the islands, ferries can take you across to Bohol, Pescador Island, Malapascua Island etc, but they are usually once or twice a day. It’s best to check the ferry times in advance rather than rocking up and expecting a boat. Of course, you can book private boat tours too, which are usually not too expensive.

It’s also worth noting that Mactan Cebu International Airport is on Mactan island, and not Cebu City. If you are arriving late at night, you should make sure to have transport to your hotel booked beforehand so you don’t end up paying a big taxi bill.

Filipinos are by and large, very friendly and helpful and crime against tourists is rare.

Some taxi drivers in Cebu will try to rip you off by taking you the long way to your destinations, so I suggest that you get familiar with the map so you know if you might be going off track. Make sure that you discuss and agree on the cost of your trip before accepting the ride.

Snatch-and-grab happens in a lot of famous tourist destinations, and so it is a good idea to pack your things in a backpack that has a lock or to keep your handbag safely and firmly in your hands when walking down local streets.

The children in Cebu are often forced to beg, and sometimes it can get quite excessive. Although I know how heartbreaking it can be, I suggest that you do not give in. Politely say ‘No.’ If you’re worried about safety, follow these helpful tips:

• Don’t travel in a taxi alone, always try to find someone to come with you. If you stay in a hostel, you’ll be sure to make some friends.
• If you’re visiting the beach, keep an eye on your belongings when swimming and don’t leave them too far away from the shore.
• It is generally quite safe to walk around popular areas at night, but keep an eye out for dodgy characters.

Our guide to staying safe when traveling is full of basic good hints and tips and is well worth taking the time to read.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Here’s what we’re usually asked by people planning their classy Cebu getaways…

What are the Top Cebu Tourist Attractions?

The top Cebu tourist attractions are: 1. The Kawasan Falls 2. The Chocolate Hills 3. Panagsama Beach 4. White Sand Beach 5. The Sirao Garden 6. The Kangcaramel Cave 7. The Bilar Man-Made Forest 8. The Tarsier Conservation Area 9. Osmena Peak 10. The Cebu Taoist Temple

What shouldn’t I miss on my Cebu Trip?

Don’t miss the Kawasan Falls, Panagsama Beach, Osmena Peak, the Sirao Garden, or the magical Chocolate Hills! If you are able to fit all of these in, you’re trip certainly won’t be a waste! If you have the time in Bohol, try and fit in the Hinagdanan Cave and the Bilar Man-Made Forest.

Where should I go on a Cebu Daytrip?

If you’re heading to the Cebu province for a single day only, I would recommend going to the island of Bohol. Home to the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier sanctuaries, impressive caves and waterfalls, and some brilliant cuisine, this island is the better choice for a single day. It’s also smaller, so you won’t spend as long getting around.

Is there a lot of Cebu Tourism?

Since Cebu City is the second largest metropolitan area in the Phillippines, the island attracts a good amount of attention. Whilst most people choose to get out of the city as soon as possible, there is a good amount to do there, and there are some things not worth missing! Most people will head to Moalboal, where they will check out the sardine run, and the awesome snorkelling that is available there!

Backpacking Cebu on a budget is an unforgettable ride. Cebu is a destination that can be enjoyed by tourists from all walks of life and all over the world! This Complete Cebu Travel Guide will make each and every day of your Cebu trip an eye-opening and exciting journey!!!!

Cebu has an unending array of scenic, tropical, and heart-stopping beautiful adventures just waiting to be had by you!

Rhenz Caguioa

Share or save this post

First time to comment on a blog. This was really helpful. Thank you so much! ?

You think it’s advisable now to visit Cebu? Knowing that it was just recently hit by typhoon.

Weather events tend to go as quickly as they come. You would be best to check out weather sites for information on local area weather and adhere to any official weather warning that are issued.

Hi. I want to go exactly where you went. I want to explore the city instead of checking out the beach. May I know what is your mode of transportation going to those place you’ve mentioned? It’s my first time going to cebu. Thank you!

The ideal way to get around is by scooter or motorbike but drive careful and wear a helmet.

Awesome blog! Maybe next time you should visit Bantayan Island northern part of Cebu. It surely you gonna love it.

i’ve been visiting this place last month during christmas time, i had chance to go down the coast from cebu to Mactan, i just had there an amazing time , unforgettable holidays <3 a golden tip from local people, book2wheel is awesome for scooter rental.

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The Ultimate 5-Day Cebu Itinerary: 2024 Travel Guide

Cebu is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines – boasting epic waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, whale sharks, island-hopping, and more!

There are countless activities to add to your Cebu itinerary, enough to keep you entertained for weeks if you have the time.

However, it seems most travelers generally spend around 5 days in Cebu so I have put together this 5 Day Cebu Itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip.

Also in this Cebu travel guide, you will find other useful information on how to get to Cebu, where to stay in Cebu, how to get around, and the best time to visit.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – CEBU ITINERARY

Here is an overview of an ideal  5 Day Cebu Itinerary  with my recommendations of places to visit in this order:

• Cebu City (1 day)
• Moalboal (3 days)
• Oslob (1 day)

DAY 1: CEBU CITY

Cebu City is located on the Central East Coast of Cebu Island and I recommend spending the first day here upon arriving and exploring some of the Cebu tourist attractions in the city.

From Cebu Mactan International Airport, it’s approximately a 30-minute drive to Cebu City and you can pre-book a transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Book Now: Cebu City Airport Transfer

Cebu city tours.

To maximize your time in Cebu City and to see all of the sites on the first day, I recommend booking a guided city tour online in advance with Viator .

WHERE TO STAY IN CEBU

Cebu City has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in the city.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

Luxury: Radisson Blu Cebu City

Radisson Blu Cebu is the best 5-star accommodation in Cebu City!

The hotel is centrally located and features direct access to SM Mall, a large outdoor swimming pool, 3 dining options, and close to the airport.

The rooms offer panoramic views of the city and are fitted with a flat-screen TV, a large memory foam bed, 24-hour room service, air conditioning, spacious living, and a private bathroom.

It’s the perfect place to stay for couples, families, or friends.

Mid Range: Cebu Parklane International Hotel

Parklane International Hotel is a very affordable 3-star accommodation located in the heart of Cebu City. It’s within walking distance of Ayala Center and other nearby attractions.

Features include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center with sauna, 3 dining options, and free wifi.

The rooms are spacious and fitted with large comfortable beds, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a work desk, sofa seating, and a private bathroom.

Recommended place to stay for couples, friends, or families.

Budget: Murals Hostel & Cafe

I personally stayed at Murals Hostel on several occasions and can’t recommend this place enough! It’s centrally located and has a Cafe attached.

There are dorm rooms, private rooms, and capsule-style rooms, perfect for solo travelers, friends, or couples.

There is also a really great co-working space with high-speed wifi!

For More Options, Search On Booking.com

Day 2: moalboal.

The best places to visit when visiting Cebu are located in the South Cebu region and you’ll want to base yourself in the popular town of Moalboal which is located on the South East Coast of the island.

The earlier you leave Cebu City on day 2 the better because there will be less traffic on the roads and you will have some time to start exploring when you arrive in Moalboal.

HOW TO GET FROM CEBU CITY TO MOALBOAL

From Cebu City to Moalboal, the best option is to take the public bus from South Cebu Bus Terminal in Cebu City.

There are hourly departures from Cebu City to Moalboal from South Cebu Bus Terminal starting as early as 5 am.

From Cebu City to Moalboal, the journey time is around 3 to 4 hours on the bus and the cost is 160 pesos.

When you arrive at the bus station in Moalboal it’s best to take a tricycle to your accommodation in the tourist area of Moalboal which is a 15-minute drive and the cost is around 100 pesos.

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GETTING AROUND SOUTH CEBU

There are a couple of options on how to get around South Cebu and they are by scooter, habal habal (motorbike taxi), tricycle, and jeepney.

You can rent a scooter in Moalboal for as little as 300 pesos per day and make your own way around to all of the South Cebu tourist spots.

If you are not confident driving a scooter, the other option is to ride in a jeepney, tricycle, or habal habal.

WHERE TO STAY IN MOALBOAL

Moalboal has hundreds of accommodations to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay during your visit.

Luxury: Dolphin House Resort Moalboal

Dolphin House is the best luxury accommodation in Moalboal, located a stone’s throw away from the ocean. Features included a pool, a restaurant and bar, free wifi, and ocean views.

There are double rooms, triple rooms, family rooms, and bungalows available at Dolphin House Resort.

It’s recommended for families, friends, or couples looking for a luxurious stay.

Mid Range: Pescadores Seaview Suites

One of the most recommended places to stay in Moalboal, Pescadores Suites offers double rooms, twin rooms, and a garden villa.

There is an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace, restaurant, mini-market, table tennis, billiards, board games, karaoke room, and wellness spa.

It’s a great place to stay for friends or couples.

Budget: Chief Mau Hostel

The best budget accommodation in Moalboal is centrally located just minutes from the beach and a 1-hour drive to Osmena Peak.

Chief Mau Hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms with free wifi. The owner Trish is super lovely and goes out of her way to make all of her guests feel welcome and comfortable.

There is a shared lounge with hammocks, a billiards table, and an in-house restaurant and bar serving up the best Western food in Moalboal.

For solo travelers, couples, or friends on a budget, this is the spot for you.

Once you are settled into your accommodation in Moalboal, I suggest renting a scooter for the 3 days that you will be here.

As I mentioned earlier, you can rent a scooter for as little as 300 pesos per day from your accommodation or a scooter rental store in the town.

For your first day in Moalboal, I recommend checking out the many cafes, restaurants, bars, and beaches in the area to get a feel for the place.

It’s a buzzing little town and I guarantee you will love it!

SWIM WITH SARDINES IN MOALBOAL

One of the most popular attractions is the Sardine Run in Moalboal .

Swimming with millions of flashing silver sardines as they circulate you in an almost hypnotic spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

The sardines gather just offshore from Panagsama Beach, the main beach in Moalboal.

To go swimming with the sardines all you need to do is rent a mask and snorkel for 100 pesos from your accommodation or a store in town and swim out just 30-50 meters to where you will find the masses of sardines swimming around.

The sardines move around in spherical shapes known as bait balls to trick their predators and they tend to stick close to the surface where the water temperature is warmer.

They might be intimidating and scary at first but all you need to do is relax and marvel at the sardines as they move around in large schools.

DAY 3: KAWASAN FALLS / OSMENA PEAK / CASINO PEAK

On day 3 of your Cebu Island adventures, I recommend starting the day early at the famous Kawasan Falls and then venturing on to the highest point on the island, Osmena Peak , and finishing off the day at Casino Peak.

KAWASAN FALLS CANYONEERING

Kawasan Falls Canyoneering in Badian is without a doubt the most popular tourist spot in Cebu!

Whether it’s your first time canyoneering or not, the Kawasan Falls experience is not to be missed.

Kawasan Falls is located just 45 minutes drive south of Moalboal. I recommend pre-booking a Kawasan Falls Tour online in advance with Viator to get the best rates.

MY EXPERIENCE AT KAWASAN FALLS

Upon arriving at the Kawasan Canyoneering Headquarters, we met our guide Raul who got us fitted into the required safety equipment such as water shoes, life jackets, and helmets.

We took a ride on the back of a motorbike to the top of the mountain and before we knew it we were completely submerged in the first rock pool.

Soon after, Raul made us sit down at the edge of a one-meter cliff before he gently pushed us backward over a small set of falls into another rock pool below. At this point, I knew we were in for an epic adventure!

We then continued navigating our way through knee-deep water that was as clear as crystal. The water trail took us through some amazing caves and natural rock slides.

There were also numerous cliff jumps ranging anywhere from three meters up to fourteen meters. Do note that if you are afraid of heights you’ve always got the option to walk around the cliffs instead of jumping.

When you reach the end of the canyon it will bring you to the  famous Kawasan Falls .

You can spend as much time as you like at Kawasan Falls as there are about five different levels of waterfalls and several big cliff jumps to keep you entertained.

There are also a few restaurants by the main waterfall to grab something to eat and drink at the end of your adventure.

Full Blog Post: Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

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OSMENA PEAK 

After Kawasan Falls, you can drive up the mountain roads to Osmeña Peak which is most famous for being the highest point on Cebu Island.

There is an allocated parking lot located near the entrance to Osmena Peak where you can park your scooter and the parking fee is by donation.

From the car park, follow the stone path up to the registration office to get your entrance ticket.

The Osmena Peak entrance fee is 30 pesos which includes a guide if you would like one but it’s not necessary as the trail is clearly marked and can be easily navigated on your own.

From the jump-off point, the hike to Osmena Peak is a short fifteen to twenty minutes along a narrow, rocky path passing by thinly forested areas and farmer’s crops.

At 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmena Peak boasts panoramic views of the coastlines on both sides of South Cebu and of course, the most fascinating hill formations that you will have likely never seen before.

These interesting rocks, hills, peaks, whatever you want to call them are other-worldly and it boggles me as to how they came to be.

From the summit of Osmena, these dominant peaks are seemingly endless as they stretch across the land like the spine of a Stegosaurus dinosaur.

Some say these rolling hills are reminiscent of Chocolate Hills in Bohol as the landscape is quite similar though each of these spots is unique to its location.

In the deep valleys below Osmena Peak in Cebu, you can see vividly green fields of farmer’s crops and on a clear day, you can spot the neighboring islands of Negros and Bohol.

Full Blog Post: Osmena Peak

CASINO PEAK

Next up is the Casino Peak hike, also referred to as Lugsangan Peak. If you are planning to visit Osmena Peak, I highly recommend taking the time to check out Casino Peak as well.

Chances are you might even like this viewpoint better and I guarantee there will be fewer people at Lugsangan Peak, with a view that is equally as amazing!

After you pay the 30 pesos entrance fee, it’s a short ten-minute hike to the summit of Casino Peak to where you’ll be welcomed with panoramic views of nearby rolling hills and pristine coastline below.

Along the trail, you’ll likely see some goats grazing in the long grass and when you reach the plateau at the top, there is a crop field with many rows of cabbages which I later found out belonged to the landowners.

You may think you have arrived at the top when you reach this point of the trek and I also thought the same because the trail isn’t clearly marked.

However, continue navigating your way around the rocky outcrop on the right-hand side and you’ll find the path to the Casino Peak summit.

The last section of the hike is a bit of a scramble up the rocks where we had to get our hands dirty but it was all worth it when we reached the summit of Casino Peak!

I must admit, I have never seen a viewpoint quite like the one from Casino Peak.

Full Blog Post: Casino Peak

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DAY 4: AGUINID FALLS / BINALAYAN FALLS / DAO FALLS / INAMBAKAN FALLS

Day 4 of this Cebu itinerary is an ultimate adventure day to four of the best waterfalls in South Cebu!

I recommend taking off from Moalboal as early as you can and starting the day at Aguinid Falls, which is the furthest waterfall south of Moalboal, and then working your way back up north to the other three waterfalls.

It will be a massive day of adventuring so pack everything you think you might need for the day such as water, snacks, sunscreen, power bank, charged cameras, etc.

AGUINID FALLS

Aguinid Falls is one of the most unique waterfalls in South Cebu, featuring multiple tiers and stunning cascades which make it one heck of an adventure.

Aguinid Falls is not quite as popular as Kawasan Falls just up the road, but the word is spreading quickly about this awesome tourist destination in Cebu that supports eco-tourism.

From Moalboal, it’s approximately a 1 hour and 20-minute drive south along the coastline to reach Aguinid Falls.

The entrance fee to Aguinid Falls is 300 pesos which includes compulsory safety equipment (wet shoes, helmet, and life jacket), two guides, and also the tip for the guides.

As I mentioned earlier, Aguinid Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall with eight levels of falls to be exact. Eight freakin’ waterfalls, can you believe it?!

Although the locals say there are eight levels of falls, only six levels are currently accessible as they are still working to improve the trail to the higher levels.

This is not your typical waterfall where you take a short trek in, go for a dip and take photos, but rather an epic and very physical adventure that involves jumping, climbing ropes, and navigating your way through the cascading falls.

It took us around two hours to complete the Aguinid Falls tour but that included many stops to take photos. For the average person, it would take around one hour from start to finish.

Full Blog Post: Aguinid Falls

BINALAYAN FALLS

Binalayan Falls (also referred to as Binalayan Hidden Falls) is one of the best Cebu waterfalls .

Binalayan Falls is located right around the corner from Agunind Falls, no more than a 2-minute drive to the entrance.

The entrance fee is 60 pesos which includes a guide and there is also a 10 pesos parking fee.

The first tier at Binalayan Falls features a shallow crystalline rock pool, a rest area with some make-shift benches and a tire swing hung from a tree.

It’s definitely worth taking a short break here in this tranquil little section of the trek.

The main falls at Binalayan Waterfall boast a 50ft tall rock face and the flow of water is divided into three separate streams that fill the basin beneath.

There is a cave behind the falls from which you can climb up and jump, but it’s best to let your guide go first to show you how it’s done.

The water is around two meters deep so I wouldn’t recommend diving headfirst. I touched the sandy bottom with my feet when I jumped, even with my knees bent.

There is also a range of cliff-jumping spots on the left-hand side of the falls, but even this is a bit sketchy due to the pool below being quite shallow.

Only jump from a height you feel comfortable with, even if the guide encourages you to jump from a higher level just say no.

Apart from cliff jumping, you can hang out in the crystalline waters and explore the natural caves behind the falls.

Full Blog Post: Binalayan Hidden Falls

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My visit to Dao Falls in Samboan was  low-key one of the best adventures I had in South Cebu.

Dao Falls is around 6km north of Binalayan Falls and it’s no more than a 15-minute drive to reach the jump-off point.

So what is so unique about Dao Waterfall? Well, to start with, it’s recognized as the tallest set of falls in the Samboan region and secondly, the jungle trail trek to get to the main set of falls is an epic adventure in itself!

The entrance fee to Dao Falls is 60 pesos which includes a guide and the parking fee is an additional 10 pesos.

Trekking to Dau Falls from the parking lot takes around twenty to thirty minutes including stops for photos. It isn’t a difficult trek by any means though do note that your feet will get wet along this jungle trail.

In most parts, it requires walking through knee-deep water and I recommend bringing a pair of  slip-on waterproof shoes  for these sections.

It wasn’t long until we were completely immersed in a dense jungle as we followed the canyon trail upstream which seemed to grow narrower the further we advanced.

It was one of the most tranquil trails I have ever hiked along.

Vines cover the canyon walls and  blue Gatorade-colored waters cascade seamlessly past as we navigated our way toward Dao Waterfall.

The adventurous hike to Dao Falls, in my opinion, is what makes this location so unique.

There are many turquoise rock pools along the way that are well worth stopping at for a quick dip and this is where you’ll likely get your best photos.

When you reach the top you’ll be graced with the epic sight of Dao Falls which towers 50 meters tall above the large catch basin.

The pools at the base of the falls aren’t quite as blue as the ones on the way up but it is still a worthy spot for a swim to cool off after the hike.

Full Blog Post: Dao Falls

INAMBAKAN FALLS

Last but not least on day 4 is Inambakan Falls in Ginatilan.

Featuring blue Gatorade-colored springs, the jungle surrounds and multiple levels at Inambakan Falls make this one of the most epic tourist spots to explore.

Inambakan Falls is located in the small village of Ginatilan just 20 minutes drive north of Dao Falls.  The entrance fee at Inambakan Falls is 50 pesos and an additional 10 pesos for parking.

The hike down to the main falls takes no more than 5 minutes from the jump-off point and the trail winds upstream until it emerges at the base of the 100-foot-tall Inambakan Falls.

My favorite feature of Inambakan Falls is the milky blue pool of water in the catch basin which gets its color from the limestone cliffs that surround the falls. It seriously looks inviting enough to drink!

Once you’ve taken a dip in the milky blue waters at the main set of falls, continue hiking along the trail and up the stairs to the next few levels of these Ginatilan Falls.

You can stop in at the second level of Inambakan which features a shallow rock pool right at the top of the main set of falls.

Watch your step on the rocks at this spot as they are very slippery and it’s a long way down if you fall.

The level up from here was my favorite because there are several cliff jumping spots into a number of refreshing rock pools.

I did a depth check first before throwing myself off different rocks into the crystalline waters of Inambakan Falls.

Continuing on, I followed the trail up a little higher to the top level of Inambakan Falls which features a large swimming hole and more cliff jumping spots.

The lush jungle that surrounds the area contrasts beautifully with the water and adds to the tranquility of this epic tourist spot.

Full Blog Post: Inambakan Falls

DAY 5: OSLOB

On the final day of your Cebu itinerary, take an early bus from Moalboal Bus Station and travel south to Oslob which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

The most popular tourist attractions in Oslob are swimming with whale sharks and Tumalog Falls.

There’s also an awesome half-day trip you can do from Oslob over to Sumilon Island which I will explain in detail below.

SWIMMING WITH WHALE SHARKS

Swimming with whale sharks is the main tourist attraction in South Cebu. Even though it’s a controversial activity, it’s also a very unique experience.

The Oslob Whale Shark experience is rated as one of the best places to swim with whale sharks in the Philippines.

BOOK NOW: OSLOB WHALE SHARK TOUR

Every morning between the hours of 6 am and 12 pm, local Filipino fishermen feed the whale sharks close to the shore.

Small wooden boats then chauffeur tourists out to where it’s possible to jump in the water and swim with the whale sharks.

The Oslob whale shark watching area is no further than 50 meters from the beach. Before you know it you will arrive at the designated spot and the boatman will tell you to jump into the water.

As soon as you dive off the boat you will encounter these beautiful gentle giants face to face just beneath the surface.

Make sure to be mindful of your surroundings when swimming with the whale sharks so that you don’t accidentally touch them or kick them by accident as they are not shy and will swim right up next to the boat.

A common question that gets asked is if it’s safe to go swimming with whale sharks in Cebu and the answer is Yes, 100%.

Even though whale sharks are the biggest fish in the ocean that can grow up to 32ft and weigh 200 tonnes, they are very humble creatures and there’s nothing to be afraid of.

The Cebu whale sharks activity has been controversial since it started. I would much rather see the whale sharks in their natural habitat without feeding them and without crowds of tourists.

However, the community in Oslob seems to be working hard to control and educate the crowds and limit impacts on the whale sharks.

Full Blog Post: Swimming With Whale Sharks In Cebu

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TUMALOG FALLS

Tumalog Falls in Oslob is one of the most popular tourist spots!

A visit to Tumalog Falls is typically combined with the Oslob Whale Shark Tours or you can visit DIY after swimming with the whale sharks.

The Tumalog Falls entrance fee is 20 pesos if you plan to visit without a tour and the opening times are Monday to Sunday from 6 am to 5 pm.

Tumalog Falls is quite unique, featuring a mellow curtain of water falling down the face of a monolithic limestone cliff.

There is a large swimming area at the base of the falls where you can take a dip to cool off.

The color of the water in the basin is that classic milky blue tinge that the Philippines is most famous for!

Tumalog Falls Oslob is surrounded by tall bamboo and mossy walls adding to the jungle vibes that you will find here.

A large cave can also be found on the left-hand side of the falls if you wish to explore deeper and get another cool perspective of Tumalog Falls from inside.

There are change rooms and toilet facilities for guests to use and also a small sari sari store if you wish to buy some water and light snacks.

Full Blog Post: Tumalog Falls

SUMILON ISLAND

Sumilon Island is a must on everyone’s Cebu itinerary just 20 minutes boat ride from Oslob. It’s the best day trip or overnight stay you can do when exploring South Cebu.

The only access to Sumilon Island is by boat which departs daily from Mainland Bancogon in Oslob to Sumilon Island at 8:00 am, 9:30 am, and 11:00 am.

The return boat from Sumilon Island to Mainland Bancogo departs at 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 5:00 pm.

I recommend purchasing the Bluewater Sumilon Day Pass online in advance with Viator which gives you access to all of the facilities at Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort such as the infinity pool, private beach area, freshwater lagoon, and restaurant.

The Bluewater Sumilon Day Pass also includes other activities on Sumilon Island such as snorkeling, Sumilon sandbar, hiking trails, and return boat transfers from Oslob.

Get It Now: Bluewater Sumilon Day Pass

If you wish to spend a night on Sumilon Island, there is only one accommodation on the island and that is the Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort .

This 4-star resort features its very own private beach, a freshwater lagoon, outdoor infinity pool, 2 restaurants, glamping tents, beachside cottages, and private villas!

The Sumilon Island sandbar is the most iconic attraction on the island and the best spot to watch the sunset.

There was only one other couple on the Sumilon sandbar when I arrived and that was it! Sumilon Island really proves itself as one of the best-kept Cebu tourist spots.

Sumilon Island sandbar is best visited on low tide when there is more exposed sand, though it’s also just as good on high tide in my opinion.

Fine white sand and crystalline waters are what make this sandbar so pristine.

As well as the Sumilon sandbar, you can go snorkeling around the reefs, climb up the ladders for some rock jumping, and go for a short hike along the jungle trail to the lighthouse.

Full Blog Post: Sumilon Island

WHERE TO NEXT?

Wondering where to head next after your 5 days in Cebu? Well, you have a few options which I have listed below.

OPTION 1: CEBU TO SIQUIJOR

Siquijor Island is a mystical paradise with many awesome things to do including epic waterfalls, white sand beaches, iconic landmarks, awesome cliff jumps, and more!

Siquoijor Island is located right beneath the southeastern tip of Cebu Island and can be easily reached by ferry.

If you are still in Oslob, you can take the public bus south to Liloan and there are only two ferry departures per day leaving from Liloan Port in Cebu at 7 am and 7 pm, bound for Larena Port in Siquijor.

The ferry from Cebu to Siquijor takes approximately 1-2 hours and the cost is around 200 pesos.

Full Blog Post: 3 Day Siquijor Itinerary

OPTION 2: CEBU TO BOHOL

Bohol Island is one of the most popular islands in the Philippines offering a mecca of adventures such as waterfalls, beaches, cave pools, cliff jumping, island hopping, and, of course, the famous Chocolate Hills.

The most common route is the ferry from Cebu to Bohol which takes approximately 2.5 hours and the cost is around 850 pesos.

There are daily ferry departures from the Cebu Pier 1 Ferry Terminal and it arrives at Tagbilaran Port in Bohol.

Click here to book your Cebu to Bohol ferry

Once you have booked your Cebu to Bohol ferry ticket online, on the day of travel you can head directly to Cebu Pier 1 Ferry Terminal at least 30 minutes before departure and present the online booking number to the staff at the check-in counter so they can issue you a seat number.

There is also an additional 25 pesos terminal fee that must be paid in cash on the day.

Full Blog Post: 31 Epic Things To Do In Bohol

OPTION 3: NORTH CEBU ISLANDS (MALAPASCUA & BANTAYAN)

Malapascua island.

Malapascua is one of my favorite islands in the Philippines and a great spot to visit after your adventures in Cebu.

Malapascua is world-renowned for its incredible scuba diving sites such as Monad Shoal where you can swim with thresher sharks.

I am not a diver myself but I can tell you now that there are many more fantastic things to do in Malapascua other than diving!

The most common route is from Cebu City to Malapascua with the use of the public bus and then a short boat ride to Malapascua Island.

The bus from Cebu to Malapascua operates on a daily basis and departs every hour from the Cebu North Bus Terminal bound for New Maya Port at the northernmost tip of Cebu Island.

The cost of the bus is around 230 pesos and the journey time is 4 hours.

The bus or minivan will arrive at New Maya Port and from here you will need to take an outrigger boat over to Malapascua Island which takes around 30 minutes.

Full Blog Post: 15 Things To Do In Malapascua

BANTAYAN ISLAND

Bantayan Island is an off-the-beaten-path tourist destination in Cebu.

There are so many epic things to do in Bantayan Island including white sand beaches, saltwater lagoons, mangrove boardwalks, cave pools, old ruins, skydiving, and island hopping!

The most common route is from Cebu City to Bantayan Island with the use of the public bus and then a short ferry ride to Bantayan Island.

The bus from Cebu to Bantayan Island operates on a daily basis and departs every hour from the Cebu North Bus Terminal bound for Hagnaya Port on the northwestern coast of Cebu Island.

The cost of the bus is around 185 pesos and the journey time is 4 hours.

The bus or minivan will arrive at Hagnaya Port and from here you will need to transfer to the ferry to Bantayan Island which takes around 1 hour.

Full Blog Post: 15 Things To Do In Bantayan

HOW TO GET TO CEBU

Cebu Island is located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines.

Cebu Island is very close to the neighboring islands of Bohol and Negros Oriental which can be easily reached by plane or ferry.

There are daily flights to Cebu Mactan International Airport connecting domestic travelers from many destinations within the Philippines and also welcoming international arrivals from around the world.

Search All: Flights To Cebu

Many ferries are operating in and out of Cebu Island that can be booked online in advance.

Visit the 12 Go Asia website to search and book all of your transportation within the Philippines and be guaranteed the best rates.

The BEST way to book your travel in Asia!

12Go Asia is the best online platform to find cheap tickets for buses, trains, ferries, airport transfers, and flights all over Asia!

Save time and money on your travels by using 12Go Asia to organize and book all your transportation.

BEST TIME TO VISIT CEBU

The best time to visit Cebu, weather-wise, is between April and July when temperatures are hot and there is barely any rainfall.

This is also high season in Cebu, so expect to see many tourists during these months.

I recommend visiting Cebu during the shoulder months of the high season between November and March which sees a bit of rainfall but usually only lasts for a couple of hours and the rest of the day is sunny.

Try to avoid the typhoon season in Cebu which is between August and October.

Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of Cebu.

WHAT TO PACK FOR CEBU

When visiting Cebu, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you.

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

BEST TOURS IN CEBU

More philippines travel guides.

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FINAL THOUGHTS – 5 DAYS IN CEBU

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

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THANKS FOR READING

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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.

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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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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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Get Started

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

More Travel Guides & Blogs

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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Ultimate cebu itinerary: the really frugal solo traveler’s guide.

• by April Han
• March 15, 2024
• 27 minutes read
• 3 months ago

Discover the ultimate Cebu itinerary for solo women travelers! Explore Cebu on a budget, experience local eats, and island adventures.

Forget the overcrowded hubs and the constant email pings. Imagine turquoise waters lapping at your toes and a gentle breeze whispering through swaying palm trees. Cebu, the Queen City of the South, beckons with the lure of slow travel. It’s a concept recently championed by travel author Pico Iyer in his book, “The Art of Stillness: Adventures in Going Nowhere” [Iyer, 2014]. In Cebu, you can trade the frenetic pace for a mindful rhythm.

Cebu isn’t just a beach bum’s paradise, though the abundance of white sand and blue waters is undeniable. This island thrums with a vibrant culture and a delectable culinary scene (think fresh seafood!). It offers natural wonders that will leave you breathless, from the majestic Kawasan Falls to the heart-pounding climb of Osmeña Peak. 

Intrigued by the idea of swimming with whale sharks in Oslob or chasing the legendary sardine run off Panagsama Beach? This Cebu travel guide will be your roadmap to crafting the ultimate Cebu itinerary.

We’re picking hostels vs expensive resorts, hunting for street food reminiscent of Anthony Bourdain’s shows, and expertly negotiating tricycle fares. Indeed, it may not offer extravagant comforts, but rest assured, the moments you’ll encounter will be etched in your memory. Prepare yourself for some useful advice, insider information, and an affordable trip to Cebu that captures the province’s authentic charm.  

Cebu Logistics: Getting There & Getting Around

Forget the airport scramble – let’s get you beachside with a piña colada in hand! Reaching Cebu is easier than wrangling a herd of digital nomad llamas (yes, they’re a thing, look it up!). 

Once you touch down at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, conquering Cebu’s terrain becomes a breeze. MyBus, a local hero, offers reliable and affordable airport transfers. Taxis are an option but agree on a fare beforehand. Feeling fancy? Grab, the ubiquitous ride-hailing app, offers Uber-like convenience. For a more comprehensive exploration of airport logistics, make sure to read my other blog post titled “ What to Do When You Just Landed in Mactan Cebu .”

Within Cebu City, embrace your inner explorer – walking is an option, especially in specific areas. But for those times your feet mutiny, tricycles, Cebu’s adorable motorized rickshaws, come to the rescue. Negotiate fares confidently and channel your inner haggling champion. Grab is a good backup for longer journeys or luggage emergencies. Make sure to take a look at my guide on “ Getting Around Cebu City: How to Explore the Queen City of the South ” for a detailed overview of transportation options.

Traveling to Cebu and getting around doesn’t have to be intimidating or costly! Allocate those pesos towards even more extraordinary experiences on your ultimate Cebu itinerary. 

Where to Stay in Cebu on a Budget

Crafting your ultimate Cebu itinerary starts with finding the perfect home base. Don’t worry, Cebu caters to every travel style, from social butterflies to privacy seekers, all without burning a hole in your digital nomad wallet!

• Hostels: Places like Mad Monkey Cebu offer clean dorms, female-only options, top security, and a buzzing social scene – ideal for solo adventurers. Many even have surprisingly affordable private rooms.
• Guesthouses: Craving a cozy haven? Explore guesthouses outside the city center for hidden gems like Alicia Apartelle, offering comfy rooms at budget-friendly prices. Lahug and Capitol Site areas provide a peaceful vibe while remaining conveniently located.
• Co-living: Embrace the digital nomad life with co-living spaces like Nomads Hub and lyf Cebu . These offer dorm/private rooms, workspaces, high-speed internet, and a vibrant community. For solo female travelers, prioritize safety. Look for establishments with positive reviews, 24/7 support, and female-only areas if that provides peace of mind.

Now you’ve got your comfy Cebu nest, get ready to discover everything this island paradise has to offer.

Cebu City Eats: Flavor Without the Fancy Prices

Food is a love language, and Cebu speaks volumes. Forget the “hangry” stereotype of solo travelers. Cebu’s culinary scene will have you cooing with delight and snapping photos worthy of your Instagram feed. But where to begin on your delicious odyssey? Buckle up, because we’re about to craft the perfect Cebu itinerary for your tastebuds.

Street Food Hotspots: A Symphony of Flavors

Forget Michelin stars. Cebu’s culinary symphony plays out on bustling streets and lively night markets. A true Cebu adventure begins with a pilgrimage to Carcar City, the undisputed “Lechon Capital of the Philippines.” Here, crispy-skinned, melt-in-your-mouth Lechon (roasted suckling pig) is an art form. But in Cebu City, DetskieLechon in Sugbo Mercado, a haven for local delicacies, serves up Lechon that rivals the best.

Speaking of Sugbo Mercado, this sprawling night market is a must-visit for any foodie. Imagine the sensory overload of a Hong Kong night market fused with the infectious energy of a Filipino fiesta. Here, you’ll discover a universe of street food delights, from sizzling seafood to fragrant bowls of local favorites like “Puto” (steamed rice cakes). Don’t miss Larsian, a food park dedicated to skewered barbecue – a Cebu institution after dark.

Feeling adventurous? Sample “Puso” (stuffed rice wrapped in banana leaves) – a Cebu staple.

Trendy Eateries in Cebu City: Fusion Fare and Social Gatherings

Cebu City caters to the modern palate as well. Escape the heat with a refreshing cup of coffee and a delectable pastry at Cafe Monte Cristo, where Italian and Filipino flavors collide to create a unique fusion experience. For a leisurely brunch with a homey vibe, look no further than Balai Brunch by Cafe Plus, where their all-day brunch menu is as satisfying as the relaxed atmosphere.

Craving Filipino comfort food? Bintana Cafe offers a warm hug on a plate with their traditional dishes. They even host social events on occasion – a perfect opportunity to mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Spice things up with a trip to Sal’s Kitchen, a haven for all things Mexican. Feeling peckish on the go? Dahun Cafe, the newest gem in town, offers a cozy corner for coffee, pastries, and a friendly conversation.

Vegetarian and Vegan Delights: Unexpected Finds for the Plant-Based Traveler

Cebu might surprise you with its vegetarian and vegan offerings. Gone are the days of limp lettuce salads as your only option. Here are a few hidden gems to tantalize your taste buds:

• Little India in Lahug: Spice things up with a visit to Little India for authentic Indian vegetarian and vegan dishes. Think fragrant curries and fluffy naan bread.
• Toniq, Wellnessland Vegan Cafe, and Bharat Spice: These health-focused cafes offer a wide variety of plant-based options, from protein-packed bowls to creative vegan takes on Filipino favorites.
• Cafe Georg: This European-inspired cafe caters to all dietary needs, with a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu.
• Happy Hippos: And now for the pièce de résistance – Happy Hippos. This adorable cafe might have an unconventional name, but their commitment to delicious and affordable vegan comfort food is no joke. Think plant-based burgers, pasta dishes, and decadent desserts (yes, even vegans deserve a sweet treat!).

So, ditch the guidebook and embrace the culinary adventure!

From sizzling street food to trendy cafes and hidden vegetarian gems, Cebu’s food scene promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you with memories that linger long after your sun tan fades.

Upgrade Your Morning Ritual: Breakfast and Coffee Hotspots

Mornings set the rhythm for the rest of my day, and as someone who appreciates a good breakfast and caffeine fix, Cebu has been a delightful discovery. Let’s dive into how you can upgrade your morning rituals and fuel your adventures for this ultimate Cebu itinerary.

Pamahaw in Cebu: A Cebuano Culinary Adventure

Think of “pamahaw” as the Cebuano version of brunch, a hearty meal to start the day right. Locals swear by steaming bowls of “pospas” (corn grits), savory chorizo, and the omnipresent fried rice and eggs. For a taste of this tradition, Pamahaw Cafe is a cozy spot, while Abaca Baking Company offers a mix of Cebuano favorites and Western breakfast classics alongside their delicious baked goods.

Where to Find Your Perfect Brew

When you’re a coffee aficionado like me, a great cup is worth seeking out. Cebu’s specialty coffee scene is thriving, and here are three spots that combine quality brews with delightful ambiance:

• Abaca Baking Company: Not just for pastries – they take their coffee seriously, from local beans to expert baristas.
• Misfits Coffee: This quirky cafe has a relaxed, creative vibe and consistently delicious coffee.
• Tightrope Coffee: Settle in with a good book (I always travel with a few) and enjoy their carefully crafted cups.

Get Your Work Done (And Sip Great Coffee Too)

As a digital nomad, finding those work-friendly cafes is crucial. Here’s where the Wi-Fi is strong, the coffee flows, and the atmosphere inspires focus:

• Mezzanine Cafe: A local favorite with ample workspace, reliable internet, and good food to sustain you through a productive session.
• Workplace Cafe: As the name suggests, this place caters specifically to those seeking a comfortable spot to power through their to-do list.

A bonus tip: Much like those early-rising Italians who grab their espresso at a standing bar, there’s a certain charm in the quick, strong coffee fix from roadside stalls. It might not be your daily go-to, but it’s a fun way to experience a slice of local life in Cebu.

The Slow Traveler’s Ideal Cebu Base: Where to Stay

Let’s get real about where to plant yourself in Cebu for the perfect slow travel adventure. Here’s the lowdown on three popular options:

Mandaue City, Cebu: The Convenient Underdog

I called Mandaue my home a few years back. It’s got a unique slow-travel charm. It’s less chaotic than Cebu City, but close enough to access all the urban excitement (and those must-try lechon places). Think of Mandaue as your reliable, familiar neighbor. You know where the good coffee shop is, how to avoid rush hour traffic, and can find a comfy spot to crack open that new book.

• Pros: Central location, easy access to transportation, plenty of affordable housing options, and malls like Parkmall for all your needs.
• Cons: Less of a “tropical getaway” and has quieter nightlife compared to Cebu City or Mactan.

Lapu-Lapu, Mactan Island: Where Beaches and Flights Meet

Craving those island vibes with a side of convenience? Lapu-Lapu on Mactan Island is your spot. Roll out of bed and be at the airport in minutes. It’s perfect for those quick weekend jaunts to other Philippine gems. This is where you go when water sports or beachfront lounging is your top priority.

• Pros: Proximity to the airport, resorts galore, easy access to island hopping adventures.
• Cons: Can get touristy in the high season, and accommodation costs might be higher.

Cebu City: The Urban Heartbeat

For those times you crave a more bustling atmosphere, Cebu City is the obvious choice. Think vibrant nightlife, historical landmarks like Magellan’s Cross, bustling markets, and popular hotels. Did I mention they just opened the newest co-living space, lyf Cebu? If you ask me, it’s a game-changer, and I have a whole review on it you need to check out!

• Pros: Endless dining options, cultural immersion, and the undeniable energy of a major city.
• Cons: Traffic and crowds might not be your jam if you’re truly committed to slow living.

The Verdict

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. As an introvert who values adventure and a cozy corner for reading, I’ve found Mandaue to be my ideal balance for long-term stays. But that’s the beauty of this ultimate Cebu itinerary – you get to create your adventure. So, are you ready to experience the heart of Cebu life or escape to island bliss? That’s the first step to finding your dream spot.

Want to find out if scuba diving is for you? Read next: Scuba Diving In Cebu City’s Surprisingly Improved Marine Habitat .

Sample 3-Day Cebu Itinerary (Tri-City Area)

Get ready for an exciting three-day adventure exploring the highlights of Cebu’s tri-city area! Consider this your ultimate Cebu itinerary, featuring a curated selection of must-visit attractions, lesser-known treasures, and a glimpse into the world of island hopping.

Day 1: Exploring Cebu City

Begin your day with a refreshing jog or leisurely walk near the City di Mare at South Road Properties, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the beautiful CCLEX bridge. It’s just a short motorbike ride away from Mad Monkey or Nomads Hub.

Grab a bite at a local eatery for a delicious and affordable lunch. Inquire about the preferred choices of the locals.

Explore the rich history of the city by visiting Fort San Pedro, the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House, Casa Gorordo Museum, and the Cebu Provincial Museum. Immerse yourself in the culture without breaking the bank!

Indulge in a scrumptious feast of burgers and tacos at Sal’s Kitchen, and then explore the vibrant craft beer scene of Cebu at Turning Wheels, conveniently located under the same roof. 

• Transportation: ₱100-200 / $2-4
• Museums: ₱100-200 / $2-4
• Meals: ₱300-500 / $5.50-9
• Day 1 Total: ₱500 – 900 / $9-16

Day 2: Exploring Majestic Mountains and Captivating Scenery

Pamahaw Cafe is a must-try! Experience the delightful “puto sikwate” (sticky rice cake with hot chocolate), a beloved Cebuano delicacy. Then, embark on a thrilling mountain adventure. Rent a “habal-habal” (motorbike taxi) for an affordable and exhilarating ride to Busay! 

Explore the Temple of Leah, which exudes a captivating Roman atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Terrazas de Flores, a haven of vibrant flowers. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the enchanting Sirao Garden, known for its picturesque scenery. Complete your day with a relaxing Japanese-inspired chill-out session at Sachiko’s Little Kyoto. 

Reenergize yourself with a cup of delicious local coffee at 21 Kilometers Coffee. In the evening, indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of smoky barbecue at Larsian, Cebu’s renowned street food market. 

• Motorcycle taxi: ₱500-800 / $9-14.50
• Mid-morning meal: ₱200-300 / $3.50-5.50
• Entrance Fees: ₱200-400 / $3.50-7
• Coffee: ₱100-200 / $2-4
• Dinner: ₱200-300 / $3.50-5.50
• Day 2 Total: ₱1200 – 2000 / $22-36

Day 3: Island-Hopping!

Use the Klook app to schedule a hassle-free full-day island hopping excursion in Mactan. Discover various islands, go snorkeling, and savor a delicious lunch, all included!

Mactan Island Hopping Tour (Klook): ₱3500 / $67

Day Trips Beyond the City: Cebu’s Natural Wonders

Cebu is so much more than crowded beaches and predictable itineraries. If you crave something wilder, you’ve got to get out of the city for a few days. Here’s how to experience Cebu’s natural wonders, with both adventure and thoughtful choices in mind:

Oslob Whale Shark Experience: Ethical Considerations

I know, I know – swimming with whale sharks is on every Cebu travel guide. It’s tempting, but the ethics are murky. These gentle giants are fed by locals to keep them in the area, disrupting their natural behaviors. A more ethical way to hang out with these filter-feeding behemoths is in Donsol in the Bicol Region. It’s heavily regulated. You can swim alongside them, but you can’t feed them. 

Oslob whale shark tourism is a bit like those roadside zoos I always felt bad about as a kid. Before you go, do your research. If you do choose to go, opt for a tour operator with strict no-touch policies and an educational focus. It’s not a black-and-white decision, but an informed one is always better.

Kawasan Falls Canyoneering: An Adventure to Remember

Now, let’s talk adrenaline rush! Kawasan Falls canyoneering is the ultimate Cebu adventure for thrill-seekers. Picture this: leaping from waterfalls, sliding down natural rock slides, and swimming through vibrant turquoise waters. It’s nature’s own waterpark, and yes, it’s as epic as it looks on Instagram.

For hassle-free booking, I swear by the Klook app . They offer diverse packages for all group sizes, including all the essentials like experienced guides, safety gear, transfers, and even a hearty lunch to refuel those adventurer muscles. Expect a physically challenging day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and heart-pumping excitement. Safety is paramount, so listen attentively to your guides and trust their expertise. And for the love of all things waterproof, bring a case for your phone – those action shots are priceless!

Bojo River Cruise in Aloguinsan: Tranquility Found

For those seeking a gentler kind of wonder, the Bojo River cruise is my secret escape. Imagine gliding down a mangrove-lined river, the water so clear you see fish darting beneath your boat. It’s like something out of a Hayao Miyazaki film, pure magic.

This eco-tour is all about appreciating the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful birds, snap photos of the lush foliage, and just…breathe. It’s the perfect antidote to the chaos of city life.

Remember, being an adventure-loving traveler doesn’t mean sacrificing your values. With a little research and conscious choices, you can make these day trips part of your ultimate Cebu itinerary and create memories that align with your love for the planet.

Beaches, Sunsets, and Island Getaways

The best part of being a digital nomad is the freedom to escape the ordinary whenever you please. And Cebu? It’s a treasure trove of island getaways that satisfy the adventurer and the beach bum in all of us. So, ditch the cubicle mindset, pack your sense of wonder, and get ready to experience Cebu’s island magic.

Moalboal’s Panagsama Beach: Marine Life and Chill Vibes

Imagine this: stepping into crystal-clear waters and being greeted by a kaleidoscope of fish. Moalboal’s Panagsama Beach delivers this underwater paradise just steps from the shore. Snorkelers, this is your mecca. If you’re up for deeper exploration, delve into the world-famous sardine run just minutes away – millions upon millions of shimmering sardines swirling in an awe-inspiring dance. Moalboal is also a scuba diver’s haven, with vibrant reefs and the chance for unforgettable encounters with turtles and other marine life.

But Moalboal isn’t just about what’s under the water. The vibe back on land is pure relaxation – think hammocks swaying in the ocean breeze and cozy beachfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and chilled drinks. Feeling adventurous? Moalboal’s the gateway to the epic Kawasan Falls canyoneering experience.

Malapascua Island: A Pristine Paradise

For a true escape, set your sights on Malapascua Island. This slice of heaven boasts those picture-perfect white sand beaches, turquoise waters begging to be swum in, and a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from city life. Malapascua holds a special allure for divers drawn by the chance to swim with the elusive thresher shark – an encounter topping bucket lists worldwide. Just remember, responsible tourism is key: choose dive operators committed to sustainable practices.

Getting to Malapascua adds to the adventure. Expect bus journeys, boat rides, and perhaps even a breezy motorbike taxi to your final destination. Embrace the journey, fellow nomad!

Island Hopping Adventures: Choosing Your Island Destinations

The beauty of Cebu is the sheer variety of island options within easy reach. From the party vibes of Bantayan Island to the unspoiled beauty of Camotes Islands – there’s an island escape tailored for every traveler. Want to experience a slice of island life? Check out smaller spots like Sumilon Island or Nalusuan Island.

The best part? You can curate your own island-hopping adventure. Numerous tours will take you to multiple destinations in a single trip. I’m actually working on a full guide dedicated to island hopping around Cebu – stay tuned! Remember, always research reputable tour operators and prioritize sustainable tourism practices to keep these beautiful islands pristine.

Cultural Immersion: Cebu’s History and Traditions

Sometimes the best travels are a time machine in disguise. If you want to step back in time and experience the rich tapestry of Cebuano culture, let’s dive into the heart of its history and traditions.

Cebu City Historical Landmarks: Where the Past Comes Alive

As a book-loving introvert, I find that a city’s soul often reveals itself through its landmarks. In Cebu, you’ve got a fascinating trio to explore:

• Magellan’s Cross: Housed in a small chapel, this cross marks the spot where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted it upon reaching Cebu in 1521. It’s more than an artifact – it’s a symbol of a turning point in history, which – for better or worse – shaped the Philippines and its culture.
• Basilica del Santo Niño: This stunning church holds the revered image of the Holy Child Jesus (Santo Niño), a gift from Magellan to Cebu’s Queen Juana. Its architecture is a blend of Spanish and native influences, creating a space of both beauty and reverence.
• Fort San Pedro: This triangular, stone fort built by the Spanish in the 17th century offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Walk the ramparts, imagine the battles fought from here, and soak in the history embedded in its walls.

Exploring Local Museums: Unravel Cebu’s Story

If you’re like me and thrive on understanding the forces that shape a place, local museums are your treasure trove. Here are a few worth adding to your ultimate Cebu itinerary:

• Museo Sugbo: Housed in a former prison, this museum chronicles Cebu’s transformation from a trading hub to the bustling province it is today. For a deep dive into local heritage, this is the place.
• Casa Gorordo Museum: A meticulously preserved 19th-century home that offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy Cebuano family during the Spanish era. Lacework, antiques, and even the layout tell tales of a different time.

Traditional Festivals: Join the Vibrant Fiesta Spirit

Nothing immerses you in a culture like joining their celebrations. Cebu’s most famous festival is Sinulog (held every third Sunday of January). It’s a riot of colors, costumes, and pulsating rhythms honoring the Santo Niño. Think Mardi Gras with a deeply spiritual twist. Check local calendars for other festivals – smaller towns often have their own unique fiestas full of charm and local flavor.

When delving into historical sites or attending festivals, be a respectful traveler. A bit of research on customs and traditions goes a long way. Think of these experiences not as a passive observer, but a chance to connect with the heart of the place and appreciate the vibrant Cebuano culture on a whole new level.

Mindfulness and Wellness in Cebu: Finding Your Inner Balance

As a digital nomad who deeply values mindfulness, I know how easy it is to get caught up in the hustle of work and exploration. That’s why I make wellness a priority in my Cebu life. This island isn’t just about beaches and whale sharks (although yes, those are amazing). It’s a place to find your center, rejuvenate your spirit, and come away feeling refreshed. Here’s how:

Yoga and Meditation Studios: Find Your Zen Amidst the Bustle

• Dawata Wellness Yoga Studio and Cafe: Nestled in Cebu City, Dawata is my go-to for nourishing my mind, body, and soul. Their welcoming classes and the delicious vegan cafe create a true haven.
• Bliss Yoga Cebu: With multiple locations, Bliss Yoga offers diverse styles to suit every yogi, from gentle Hatha to dynamic Vinyasa flows.
• Ananda Marga Yoga Center: Seek spiritual growth alongside physical practice at Ananda Marga, where meditation and philosophy are integral.
• Badian Island Wellness Resort: For a luxurious escape, Badian Island’s wellness activities, including yoga and meditation, are set against the stunning backdrop of the sea.

Spas and Traditional Healing Practices: Indulge in Pampering and Relaxation

• Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa: Their unique Chocolate Illumination and Sound Healing therapies are a must-try. It’s like a symphony of relaxation for your senses.
• La Joya Farm Resort & Spa: Experience the traditional Filipino healing art of hilot massage. It’s the perfect antidote to travel aches and laptop-induced tension. Bonus: you can try their walking meditation for an added dose of mindfulness.

Hiking and Nature Retreats: Osmena Peak and Beyond

• Osmena Peak: The panoramic views from Cebu’s highest point will take your breath away. While popular, the trek is relatively easy, making it perfect for a mindful escape into nature.
• Lesser-Known Trails: If you crave solitude and adventure, Cebu has hidden gems waiting to be explored. Consider the Casino Peak hike for challenging climbs and rewarding vistas, the Dao Waterfall Trek with its refreshing dip, or the Kabutongan Waterfall Trek for a true off-the-beaten-track experience.

Even the most seasoned traveler and digital nomad needs moments of tranquility. Cebu offers a fantastic blend of cultural immersion, thrilling activities, and opportunities to slow down and reconnect with yourself.

I believe incorporating these wellness practices will elevate your Cebu adventure. Because hey, an amazing itinerary isn’t just about what you do, it’s about how you feel while doing it. And remember, just like a good book or a thought-provoking documentary, sometimes the greatest discoveries are found within.

12-Day Cebu Itinerary: A Suggested Schedule

This Cebu itinerary gives you direction, but it’s by no means set in stone. The beauty of slow travel is the freedom to customize and linger where your heart desires. Let’s embrace spontaneity, shall we?

Here’s a breakdown to spark your Cebu adventure:

Important Notes:

• Slow Travel Mindset: I’m assuming you, like me, love to savor experiences, not race through them like a contestant on The Amazing Race.
• Safety First: Cebu is generally safe, but as a seasoned traveler, I trust you know basic precautions are a must, especially as a solo female.
• Flexibility is Queen: Want 3 days in Malapascua instead? Go for it! Buffers are built in for this very reason.
• The Joy of Serendipity: Leave room for the unexpected – the hidden cafe, that impromptu local festival… that’s where travel magic happens. I might be biased as an introvert, but some of the best travel memories are the unplanned ones.

This itinerary aims for that sweet spot between structure and freedom. It’s your springboard to an unforgettable Cebu adventure. And hey, if you find a different ultimate Cebu itinerary, I’d be remiss not to ask for a peek… we all need a little inspiration now and then! 😉

Packing for Frugal Travel in Cebu

Let’s approach packing with a strategic mindset! Imagine you’re a superhero gathering your tools for the ultimate Cebu itinerary. We aim to be nimble, flexible and prepared for any challenges that come our way on this exciting journey.

Finding the Ideal Bag

As savvy travelers, our goal is to travel light with carry-on luggage to avoid any unnecessary fees imposed by budget airlines. A backpack within the 35-45 liter range provides excellent versatility. Find a brand that offers durable construction and comfortable straps. Keep in mind that this will be your reliable companion throughout the entire trip!  

Skincare and Other Necessities

Cebu is known for its abundant sunshine, making sunscreen an essential item. Consider bringing a compact, environmentally-friendly sunscreen to safeguard your skin and the delicate marine environments. Include a compact first-aid kit with essentials like blister care and basic medications, so you’re prepared for any unexpected situations. A portable power bank is essential for ensuring your phone stays charged while you’re on the move. Also, it’s worth considering a foldable reusable water bottle as a way to reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated without breaking the bank. 

Clothes to Wear 

When it comes to clothing, think about being versatile! Opt for lightweight fabrics, breathable basics, and a selection of vibrant hues that can easily be combined and coordinated. Choose comfortable dresses that are suitable for both market mornings and temple visits. To stay prepared for cooler evenings, consider pairing them with a denim jacket. Make sure to pack a swimsuit (or two!), a versatile sarong that can also be used as a beach cover-up, and a pair of durable walking sandals to be fully prepared for whatever Cebu throws your way. 

Here’s a complete guide on What To Wear In Cebu For Beautiful, Stunning Photos .

Here’s a helpful tip: Leave some extra space in your bag! Markets are brimming with incredible discoveries – from charming woven bags to vibrant jewelry. It’s important to have enough space to bring back a slice of Cebu without going overboard with your luggage. 

Extra Money-Saving Tips for Cebu

Alright, let’s discover some additional ways to save money! Here’s a rundown on how to stay connected, negotiate with skill, and overcome concerns about water:

Mobile Data

Who needs those expensive international roaming plans anyway? Prepaid SIM cards are the way to go if you’re looking for affordable data in Cebu. Two major players in the industry are Globe and Smart. You can easily find their shops or even visit convenience stores to avail of their services. Inquire about promotions – they frequently offer temporary discounts ideal for travelers. Use phrases like “ Unsay pinakabarato ?” (What’s the most affordable choice?) or “ Pwede ko magpa-load ?” (Can I add credit?)

Negotiate with a Friendly Attitude

Negotiating prices can be quite enjoyable in certain Cebu scenarios! Markets, souvenir stalls, and tricycle rides are typically open for haggling. Begin by inquiring about the price, then kindly propose approximately half with a warm smile. A few fun Cebuano phrases to try out: “ Mahal kaayo! ” (Costs too much!) or “ Pwede discount? ” (Is there any chance of getting a discount?). Feel confident to step back if they refuse to compromise – frequently, they’ll reach out to you with an improved proposal. Always remember to maintain a respectful and lighthearted approach.

Issues with Tap Water

Regrettably, the quality of tap water in Cebu is not consistently reliable for consumption. A refillable water bottle can be your savior! Several hostels and guesthouses offer convenient refill stations for safe drinking water. Purchasing large containers of water at supermarkets is also quite budget-friendly. By following this approach, you can keep yourself hydrated, steer clear of buying plastic bottles, and contribute to the well-being of the environment. It’s a triple win! 

Beyond Cebu: Frugal Extensions to Your Itinerary.

The Philippines is home to a multitude of islands, each exuding its own distinct aura. If you have some spare time and want to enhance the enchantment of this ultimate Cebu itinerary, here’s a brief sampler:

Bohol is renowned for its charming tarsiers, those captivating primates with their big eyes, and the picturesque Chocolate Hills. Traveling by ferry from Cebu is quite budget-friendly, allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Craving for an extra dose of that enchanting island vibe? Discover all the essential tips for a seamless journey to the enchanting “Island of Healers” with my comprehensive Cebu To Siquijor Travel Guide: Secrets You Must Know . 

Looking for secluded beaches with fewer people? Bantayan Island is truly a hidden treasure, while the Camotes Islands provide a charming and authentic experience. Malapascua is a must-visit destination for divers and those who have always dreamed of swimming with thresher sharks. If you happen to have some additional time, consider visiting Dumaguete on Negros Island. It’s a quaint city with a delightful atmosphere and a perfect starting point to explore the breathtaking Apo Island marine sanctuary. 

Exploring the beautiful islands of the Philippines is all about embracing a relaxed and unhurried approach to travel. Take care not to cram in too much! Choose a couple of destinations, consider the expenses for ferry rides, and fully enjoy the experience. 

Parting Thoughts

This ultimate Cebu itinerary is the perfect starting point for your adventure, guiding you along hidden paths to uncover hidden treasures. Embrace a fearless and inquisitive spirit, and welcome those unforeseen deviations – that’s where the real enchantment of travel unfolds.

Discover the wonders of Cebu with this budget-friendly option, allowing you to extend your stay and experience more! Embrace the opportunity to demonstrate that exploring the world can be done without causing harm to the environment. And you know what adds an extra touch of delight to a solo adventure? Relish in the tales upon your return, perhaps while savoring a delectable batch of homemade  lumpia  that captures the essence of your journey.

Are you staying a while in Cebu? Keep coming back for an in-depth exploration of the entire province of Cebu. Discover the lesser-known treasures of Cebu City, including pristine beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and hidden gems that often go unnoticed by guidebooks. Consider it an extra adventure for those who have already mastered the main attractions. 

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Sample cebu itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6 days tour or more + tourist spots to visit this 2024.

Sample Cebu Itineraries 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour 2024

3D/2N: Sample Cebu Itinerary (3 Days and 2 Nights)

Day 1: arrival + cebu city tour part 1.

• Arrival at Cebu-Mactan International Airport (MCIA)
• Travel from MCIA to Cebu City - BOOK AIRPORT TRANSFER HERE!
• Check-in at the Hotel - SEE HOTELS & RESORTS IN CEBU HERE!
• Cebu City Downtown Tour
• Basilica del Sto. Niño
• Magellan's Cross
• Fort San Pedro
• Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
• Skywalk Experience Adventure, Edge Coaster and Tower Zip at Crown Regency Hotel & Towers - BOOK DISCOUNTED TICKETS HERE!
• Back at the hotel

DAY 2: SIRAO FLOWER GARDEN, TEMPLE OF LEAH AND MORE!

• Take a photo of Cebu Provincial Capitol
• Take a look at Rizal Memorial Library and Museum
• Visit Sergio Osmeña Museum
• Visit Cebu Taoist Temple
• Enjoy Sirao Flower Gardens, Sirao Peak or Celosia Flower Farm
• Visit Temple of Leah
• Shop for pasalubong and souvenirs at Tabo-an Market
• Chill and relax at Mango Square

DAY 3: CEBU CITY TOUR PART 2, MACTAN SHRINE + DEPARTURE

• Visit Heritage of Cebu Monument
• Explore Colon Street
• Visit the Jesuit House and the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House
• Hotel check-out
• Proceed to Mactan
• Explore Lapu-Lapu Monument and Magellan Shrine
• Go to Mactan-Cebu International Airport - BOOK AIRPORT TRANSFER HERE!

TRAVEL TIPS: For ease and convenience, you may avail a Private Cebu Half Day Tour or a Private Cebu & Mactan Twin City Tour in exploring Cebu. You may also avail a Sirao Garden and Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary Half Day Tour that covers a visit to Sirao Flower Farm.

4D/3N: Sample Cebu Itinerary (4 Days and 3 Nights)

Day 1: arrival + cebu rediscovery tour.

• CEBU REDISCOVERY TOUR (Afternoon tour) - BOOK HERE!
• 1:00pm - hotel pick up
• Plaza Sugbu
• Santo Nino Church
• Taoist Temple
• Magallanes St.
• South Road Properties
• Osmena Blvd
• Fuente Osmena Park
• Cebu Provincial Capitol
• Asiatown IT Park & Ayala Business Park
• 5:00pm - hotel drop off

DAY 2: MACTAN ISLAND HOPPING ADVENTURE

• If you're looking for a hassle-free and convenient Mactan Island Hopping Tour, I highly recommend that you book it with Klook for as low as ₱ 2,050 - BOOK HERE!

SAMPLE MACTAN ISLAND HOPPING ITINERARIES FROM KLOOK

• Island Hopping
• 07:50am - 09:15am - hotel pick up
• 09:15am - 09:40am - jump off point and quick briefing
• 09:40am - travel to Pandanon Island
• 10:30am - arrive at Pandanon Island for swimming, snorkeling, and beach lounging
• 12:00pm - lunch at beach hut
• 01:00pm - travel to Nalusuan Island
• 03:30pm - travel to Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary
• 4:30pm - hotel drop off
• Island - Hopping + Scuba Diving
• 10:30am - arrival at Pandanon Island for swimming, snorkeling, and beach lounging
• 01:00pm - travel to Nalusuan
• 01:30pm - scuba diving at Nalusuan diving site
• 04:30pm - hotel drop off
• Island Hopping + Parasailing
• 04:00pm - travel back to mainland and prepare for parasailing
• 04:30pm - 15 minutes parasailing ride
• 05:00pm - hotel drop off
• Island Hopping + Scuba Diving + Parasailing
• 09:15am - 9:40am - jump off point and quick briefing
• 01:30pm - Scuba diving at Nalusuan diving site
• Dinner at Larsian's

Another option for DAY 2 is Hilutungan, Nalusuan, and Caohagan Island Hopping Tour where you could enjoy a day of sun, idyllic white-sand beaches and beautiful blue ocean waters around Mactan Island.

• 08:45 am - meet up at Marigondon, Mactan Island
• Start of island hopping
• Hilutungan Marine Reserve
• Nalusuan Marine Sanctuary
• Caohagan Island
• Barbeque lunch on the boat
• Return to Marigondon, Mactan Island

DAY 3: SIRAO FLOWER GARDEN, TEMPLE OF LEAH AND MORE!

Travel tips: for ease and convenience, you may modify this day and book a join-in tour to sirao garden and jumalon butterfly sanctuary half day tour or add top of cebu private half day trip in your itinerary. if you're into food, you may also consider booking a cebu street half day food tour for a gastronomical adventure featuring the region's local delicacies., day 4: cebu city tour part 2, mactan shrine + departure.

5D/4N: Sample Cebu Itinerary (5 Days and 4 Nights)

• Check-in at the Hotel/Resort - SEE HOTELS & RESORTS IN CEBU HERE!
• CEBU REDISCOVERY TOUR (Afternoon tour) - RESERVE A SLOT HERE!
• Fuente Osmena Park Cebu Provincial Capitol
• If you're looking for a hassle-free and convenient Mactan Island Hopping Tour, I highly recommend that you book it with Klook for as low as ₱ 2,050 - CHECK AVAILABILITY AND BOOK HERE!

DAY 4: CAMOTES ISLAND ADVENTURE

• 06:30 - 07:00am - hotel pick-up
• Enjoy an exciting island getaway with a day tour of the beautiful Camotes Islands from Cebu
• Explore the mysterious and magical natural wonders like the caves, lake, and beaches of Camotes Islands
• Admire the shimmering blue waters of the sea as you indulge in a delicious authentic Filipino cuisine lunch
• Treat yourself to a day of relaxation, fun time in the water, and an unforgettable cliff diving experience during the trip

DAY 5: CEBU CITY TOUR PART 2, MACTAN SHRINE + DEPARTURE

6D/5N or MORE: Sample Cebu Itinerary (6 Days and 5 Nights or More)

Badian canyoneering adventure and kawasan waterfalls day tour, for private tours.

• 05:00 am - hotel pick up
• 07:30 am - arrival in Badian
• 08:00 am - breakfast (at your own expense)
• 08:30 am - start trekking and canyoneering
• 12:00 pm - lunch at Kawasan Falls
• 12:30 pm - swim at Kawasan Falls
• 02:00 pm return to Cebu City
• 04:00 pm hotel drop off

For Join-In Tours

• 05:00 am - for guests staying in Mactan Island: Pick up at 7-Eleven Island Central Mall
• 05:45 am - for guests staying in Cebu City: Pick up at 7-Eleven General Maxilom (near Burger King and Caltex Gas Station Mango)
• 09:00 am - arrival in Badian
• 10:00 am - start of trek and canyoneering
• 01:00 pm - lunch (at your own expense) in Kawasan Falls
• 01:30 pm - swimming at Kawasan Falls
• 02:00 pm - depart for Mactan Island or Cebu City
• 05:00 pm - end of tour, drop off at Mango Square (across 7-Eleven General Maxilom)
• 06:00 pm - end of tour, drop off at Mactan Marina Mall (across 7-Eleven Island Central Mall)

Pescador Island Hopping Private Tour

• 05:00 am - hotel pick up (for guests staying at hotels located within Cebu City, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu only)
• 09:30 am - arrive in Moalboal
• 10:00 am - boat ride to Pescador Island
• 10:30 am - snorkeling in sardine run and swimming with sea turtles
• 12:30 pm - lunch at your own expense
• 02:30 pm - return hotel
• 05:00 pm - hotel drop off
• Note: The itinerary and timings are subject to change without prior notice due to tide and weather conditions of the day. Your guide will reconfirm your schedule.

Moalboal and Pescador Island

• 05:00am - for guests staying on Mactan Island, pick up is at Shell Select (Pajo Gas Station)
• 05:45am - for guests staying in Cebu City, pick up is at McDonald's Fuente
• 09:00am - arrive in Moalboal
• 10:00am - boat ride to Pescador Island
• 10:30am - snorkeling at sardine run and swim with sea turtles
• 12:30pm - lunch (at your own expense)
• 02:00pm - depart for Mactan Island or Cebu City
• 05:00pm - end of tour, drop off at McDonald's Fuente
• 06:00pm - end of tour, drop off at Shell Select (Pajo Gas Station)

You may also visit Bohol on a day tour from Cebu! Here is the sample itinerary.

Sightsee bohol day tour from cebu.

• 07:00am - hotel pick up time
• 09:20am - ferry transfer to Tagbilaran
• 11:20am - arrive at Tagbilaran Port
• 11:45am - view famous Tarsiers
• 12:30pm - lunch at the Loboc river cruise
• 01:30pm - see the famous Chocolate Hills
• 02:30pm - sightsee at Bilar man-made forest, Butterfly Sanctuary
• 03:30pm - visit Baclayon Church & Museum and Blood Compact Monument
• 05:00pm - end of tour
• 05:30pm - return ferry back to Cebu
• 07:30pm - arrive back in Cebu, hotel drop off

AWESOME DEALS! Hotels and Resorts in Cebu (Discounted Stay Packages)

• Up to 65% Discount! - Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort (see rates here!) - Two-night Deluxe Room with breakfast, 15% discount on F&B, BlueCARES Sanitation Kit & welcome Bluewater coolers. Plus 20% discount on Amuma Spa & early check-in or late check-out (subject to availability).
• Up to 75% Discount! - bai Hotel Cebu (see rates here!) - Overnight or 2 Nights Stay with complimentary breakfast and PHP 500 or PHP 1000 Food Voucher.
• Up to 40% Discount! - Seda Ayala Center Cebu (see rates here!) - One-night stay in a Deluxe Room for 2 persons, inclusive of breakfast and/or PHP 500 worth of dining credits.
• Up to 60% Discount! - Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu (see rates here!) - Overnight Stay with Daily Breakfast for 2 persons and Exclusive Perks.
• Up to 40% Discount! - Mezzo Hotel (see rates here!) - One-night stay in a Deluxe Suite Room, Deluxe Room, Superior Room, Junior Suite, Premier Suite or Barkada Room with breakfast.
• Up to 30% Discount! - Seda Central Bloc Cebu (see rates here!) - One-night stay in a Deluxe Room for 2 persons, inclusive of breakfast and/or PHP 500 worth of dining credits.
• Up to 65% Discount! - Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort (see rates here!) - 2-night stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast, 15% discount on F&B, BlueCARES Sanitation Kit & welcome Bluewater coolers. Plus 20% discount on Amuma Spa & early check-in or late check-out (subject to availability).

There you have it! You can use these sample Cebu Itineraries in planning an amazing and memorable Cebu Adventure!

• Sample BORACAY Itineraries
• Sample BOHOL Itineraries
• Sample BACOLOD Itineraries
• Sample DUMAGUETE-SIQUIJOR Itineraries
• Sample SIARGAO Itineraries
• Sample CORON Itineraries
• Sample PUERTO PRINCESA Itineraries
• Sample EL NIDO Itineraries
• Sample LA UNION Itineraries

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26 Awesome Things to do in Cebu: Best Tourist Spots

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: October 8, 2023

Categories PHILIPPINES

Cebu is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines with so much to offer from amazing beaches to endless waterfalls. Cebu City is a giant metropolis but all of the best things to do in Cebu are by the coast or in the mountains. In this guide, I’ll share all of the best Cebu Tourist Spots and Best Things to do in Cebu . In one day you can swim with whale sharks, hike to a viewpoint and watch sunset at the beach. Cebu is a destination everyone loves, because it simply has it all.

Table of Contents

26 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON CEBU

There are so many things to do in Cebu that unfortunately, most tourists do one or two activities and then head to another island in the Philippines. This is a BIG MISTAKE, because it’s possible to spend an entire in Cebu and enjoy amazing adventures every single day! In this blog, I will detail all of the best things to do in Cebu, which I have personally experienced. You can click the links throughout the article to visit the individual blog posts I’ve written about all of these top tourist spots in Cebu.

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN MOALBOAL

Moalboal is the best place to base for all your Cebu adventures. It is central to most waterfalls , canyoneering , snorkeling , beaches and within driving distance of the Whale Sharks !

• My TOP Pick: Dolphin House Resort – Private Beach, Outdoor Pool, Great Location.
• Beachfront: Teobas Homestay – Native Style Bungalow, Ocean-front location.
• Best Resort: Oceanfront Paradise Resort – Oceanfront, beach access, beautiful pool

KAWASAN FALLS CANYONEERING

Canyoneering through the Gatorade blue waters all the way down the canyons into Kawasan Falls is one of the most popular tourist spots in Cebu.

In Badian/Alegria and even Moalboal there are many tour companies you can book with for your Kawasan Falls canyoneering adventure on Cebu. However, these are often big groups and can range in quality as it’s tough to see the ‘reviews’. I suggest booking in advance with the online tour that has 1000+ positive reviews. There are two main options that I recommened:

• Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Tour : ( BEST PRICE ): The classic tour including transfers. Number one most booked activity in Cebu, with 1000+ POSITIVE REVIEWS .
• Oslob Whale Sharks & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering  – This combo-tour is a great way to enjoy a guided tour of thw two most popular activities in Cebu.

The canyoneering starts in the jungle and you will wear a helmet and a life vest. Accompanied by a guide you will jump into the water and begin floating down the canyon. This goes on for the best part of 2 hours as you float, jump and climb your way down to Kawasan Falls.

The biggest jump was 50ft but it was optional. The biggest jump that was required to continue the journey downstream was only a few meters. Halfway through the floating and swimming comes to an end more or less and you begin to trek through the water and the jungle. It is quite an immersive experience but still quite safe.

Finally, you will end up at Kawasan Falls. Here you finish the experience with a big jump from the top of the waterfall. Note that you don’t have to jump you can walk down quite easily but it is the tradition to finish with the jump. Now you can enjoy Kawasan Falls and have a rest!

Read the full blog post:  KAWASAN FALLS CEBU CANYONEERING

BEST CAMERA FOR THE PHILIPPINES

The GoPro Hero11 is the BEST camera for traveling around the Philippines .

• Waterproof for snorkeling, island-hopping and canyoneering and beach days.
• Built-in stabilization for filming your travels and adventure activities
• 5.3K video and 27MP Photo to capture awesome memories of friends and family

WHALE SHARK INTERACTION

Swimming with the whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu, is an experience unlike any other. From the moment you set off from the shores of Tan-awan, anticipation builds.

The local guides take you less than a kilometer out from the shore, to where the whale sharks gather. They come to feed on the small shrimp that fishermen distribute, a practice that has led to these friendly encounters. Here, the local guides let you out of the boat with your snorkel on and you hold onto the boat while the Whale Shark swims by.

Once in the water, it’s hard not to be awestruck. These enormous creatures move with a grace that seems impossible for their size. But remember, respect is paramount – keeping a safe distance is crucial, as is refraining from touching the animals or using flash photography.

• Oslob Whale Sharks & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering  – This combo-tour is a great way to enjoy a guided tour of thw two most popular activites in Cebu.
• Oslob Whale Shark Tour : This is the MOST-BOOKED tour in Oslob with more than 10,000 reviews . Includes transfer to and from your hotel.

MY 5 FAVORITE CEBU TOURS

• Oslob Whale Sharks & Moalboal Sardine Run Snorkeling  – This combo tour is the BEST VALUE way to enjoy a guided and PRIVATE tour of the two most popular activities in Cebu.
• Moalboal Island Hopping & Pescador Island & Turtle Bay Snorkeling :  Swim with turtles and the sardine balls on an island-hopping boat trip from Moalboal.

Bluewater Sumilon Island Day Tour  – Visit the crystal clear water of Sumilon Island on this day tour.

• Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Tour ( BEST PRICE ): The classic tour. Number one most booked activity in Cebu!
• Bohol Day tour from Cebu : Want to visit Bohol but are short of time? See the top sights on this one-day adventure including transport.

Click the orange button below to view all of the top-rated tours on Klook

INAMBAKAN FALLS

Inambakan Falls is known for having a beautiful 100-ft waterfall that plunges into a wide pool of blue water. Surrounded by lush jungle greenery it is indeed an amazing scene. However, what makes Inambakan Falls such a memorable adventure is the multi-level trek to different pools and waterfalls.

Inambakan Falls is a solid four-hour journey from Cebu City . When I visited, I was based in Moalboal and the drive took less than an hour on the motorbike.

The main waterfall is a 100ft flow of water, which crashes down into the blue pool of water. I really love the limestone cliffs behind the waterfall. The orange tinge contrasts so vividly against the strong blue of the pool below.

We swam behind the waterfall into the cave and explored the rocks of the main pool before sending a couple of jumps into the pool below. You could adventure here for hours and it is an adventure in itself. However,  there are five levels at Inambakan so this is just part of the experience.

The third level was such an incredible spot. A crystal clear pool, deep enough for cliff jumping, sits in front of a backdrop of idyllic palm trees. It is a slice of paradise right in the middle of the jungle. Inambakan Falls is a full-day adventure and is easily one of my favorite tourist spots on Cebu!

Read the full blog post:   INAMBAKAN FALLS IN GINATILAN

SUNRISE HIKE TO OSMENA PEAK

From Alegria, we organized a motorbike to take both myself, a friend, and of course the driver to Osmena Peak. It was only $10 per person return and was a 1.5-hour journey each way. It was very uncomfortable but the budget option.

You could take a car here but it would be much more expensive. We had to leave before 4 am in order to make it to the summit before sunrise.

The Peak is known for having amazing panoramic views across jagged cliff lines and the ocean. We were told it would be best for sunrise and we were left speechless by the scene from the summit of the short 20-minute trek.

Book a tour: You can do it DIY like me but there is a really good tour you can book as well. The tour I recommend to you actually includes a visit to Kawasan Falls and Osmena Peak on the same day for just $30!

Osmena & Kawasan Combo

• Osmena Peak Sunrise
• Kawasan Falls after Hiking
• 2 Best Cebu Activities

View the full blog post:   OSMEÑA PEAK IN CEBU – A BEAUTIFUL SUNRISE HIKE

MAINIT HOT SPRING IN MALABUYOC

A 15-minute bus ride away from the small town of Alegria (costing less than $1) you will head to Mainit Hot Springs. A short walk through the jungle and you will arrive at some amazing hot springs, surrounded by lush greenery and a waterfall.

The Hot Springs were steaming. So hot we could hardly sit in some of the springs which ranged from 38-42 degrees Celsius. Set in a rainforest just beyond a local village we could feel this was just the beginning of an amazing trip

Read the full blog post:   MAINIT HOT SPRINGS IN MALABUYOC

KABUTONGAN WATERFALL TREK

Kabutongan Falls trek is one of the most magical adventures on the island of Cebu. The trail follows the blue waters of a narrow stream up the canyon until you reach Kabutongan Waterfall. Here you will find a hidden cave behind the waterfall and several different cliff-jumps!

The trail is only a short 30-minutes but there are a few sections that require rope  (it is installed). It is possible without a guide but the guide is vital to help protect natural areas like this and they will help keep you safe.

From the waterfall viewpoint, you can only see half of the waterfall as the rock wall wraps around, concealing the waterfall. Luckily you can get a closer like by swimming down in the pool below.

You can even enter the cave by swimming on the left side, directly underneath the flow of the waterfall. Inside the cave, the water has that beautiful blue tinge and the cave goes back about 20-meters. It was one of my favorite parts about the trek.

The cliff jumps at Kabutongan are pretty awesome. From the viewpoint, you have two levels. One if about 5-meters and the other is about 8-9 meters.

Read full blog post: KABUTONGAN WATERFALL TREK

VISIT SUMILON ISLAND

A trip to Sumilon Island is one of the highlights when visiting Oslob, Cebu. A short boat ride takes you to this small but stunning island known for its shifting sandbar, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life.

The island’s sandbar is an incredible natural phenomenon. Depending on the season and the tide, the shape and size of the sandbar change, but its beauty remains constant. With the sea around it ranging from aqua to deep blue, it’s a perfect spot for sunbathing or a beach picnic.

The surrounding coral reefs teem with diverse marine life, making snorkeling and diving here a joy. From colorful coral formations to a variety of fish species, it’s like exploring a vibrant underwater world.

Finally, a hike up the island’s trails leads to a historic lighthouse and offers panoramic views of the sea and the nearby mainland. A trip to Sumilon Island provides a mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, making it one of the top things to do in Cebu.

DAO WATERFALL TREK

Dao Waterfall offers not only an epic waterfall finale but it is the trek in that is truly astounding. For thirty minutes you wade through those trademark Cebu blues, while ferns and palms cover the canyon walls on either side. The trek to Dao Falls itself isn’t hard but it does require you to walk through the water and navigate your way around boulders and rocks. It is a moderate adventure with incredible scenery, which is far away from the crowds of the top tourist spots in Cebu, such as Kawasan Falls.

Dao Waterfall is about 40-50m high and pours down into a large pool. You can swim safely in the pool and near the falls when the flow isn’t too crazy but of course be careful depending on the conditions. It was a great pool to refresh in after the short trail hike. I’ve heard that the falls used to be double the width but a landslide impacted the flow and it isn’t quite as impressive these days but it still impressed me!

Read the full blog post:  DAO WATERFALL IN SAMBOAN

What are my favorite pieces of gear for waterfall adventures?

There are four pieces of gear that I simply never forget when I go on a waterfall adventure . These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my waterfall adventure essentials.

• Arcteryx BETA AR Rain Jacket : This is my go-to rain jacket. It’s super light, folds down into a tiny ball, and protects brilliantly in a storm. This one never leaves my backpack.
• Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack : Waterfalls get wet and wild so having this ultralight dry sack for cameras, phones and valuables means you don’t have to hold back!
• Quick-Dry Towel : A quick-dry towel is a must for travelers. It hardly takes up any room and dries in seconds.
• GoPro Hero 12 : The best and easiest way to capture your underwater and snorkeling adventures.

PALM TREE ROADS NEAR GINATILAN

On the drive to Kabutongan are some of the coolest roads on all of Cebu. If you are looking for a scenic road to take some epic photos and enjoy the jungle atmosphere, keep your eyes open on the drive up to Kabutongan Falls. However, there are palms all over Cebu and you will get some great shots with palms on the way to Inambakan Falls, Dao Falls, and Montpellier Falls.

CAMBAIS FALLS

Cambais Falls is an amazing waterhole in the hills of Alegria, Cebu. It’s less than an hour drive from Moalboal and there are several other great waterfalls nearby to make an epic waterfall adventure day. There are several waterfalls and different cliff jumping levels at Cambais as well great spots for swimming.

Cambais Falls has two distinct levels. On the first level, a huge, milky blue pool is surrounded by ferns, boulders, and trees. The waterfall at this level pours over the limestone cliff wall without extreme force, more of a pour! It seems to drip off the limestone in lines, which creates a beautiful scene from below. There is a lot to explore on this level like a few small caves and plenty of rocks to jump off.

On this first level, there is a solid cliff jump. From about 7 meters and then 10 meters you can jump directly from the waterfall. The spot to land it is quite small as it isn’t too deep and you need to hit the right landing area. Make sure you check the depth before jumping.

Read the full blog post:  CAMBAIS FALLS IN ALEGRIA

MONTPELLIER WATERFALL

Montpellier isn’t the most popular waterfall on Cebu amongst tourists. In fact, most probably don’t know about it. The locals are happy to share this one. They have painted a big mural and sign near the road, which marks the entrance. It is a great little watering hole without much of a hike and a great way to cool off after exploring Osmena Peak (on the same road).

Once you reach the waterfall you will have to crane your neck to take it in. It’s a tall one. A single flow of water plummets onto a giant boulder below before cascading into the emerald pool. It’s a great spot for swimming and hanging out with some of the local kids. I can’t imagine having something so epic in my backyard.. let alone my hometown! It’s one of the best waterfalls on Cebu for a relaxed afternoon.

Read the full blog post:  MONTPELLIER WATERFALL IN ALEGRIA

CASINO PEAK TREK IN DALAGUETE

In the backyard of a friendly family near Lugsangan is one of the most amazing viewpoints on Cebu. Known as Casino Peak, this short trek to the top of a rocky ridge has a view I can guarantee you have never dreamed of in your wildest imagination.

The trek up Casino Peak from the information center is actually very short and hardly considered a trek in my opinion. The total trekking time to reach the summit is about ten minutes although it is quite steep. The track is clear the whole way but not marked.

At the summit, we could not believe our eyes as we saw the Chocolate Hills of  Bohol . For me, this was the best mountain view I had ever seen in Cebu and It was a more impressive vista than  Chocolate Hills on Bohol  in my opinion.

Read the full blog post:   CASINO PEAK VIEWPOINT HIKE IN DALAGUETE

BINALAYAN (HIDDEN) WATERFALL

Tucked away in Samboan is a beautiful waterfall at the end of a tranquil jungle trail. It is also the place of one of the most dangerous cliff jumps I’ve ever done in my life. It’s a beautiful but short little adventure, which you can combine with the other waterfalls in the Samboan region of Cebu.

Binalayan Waterfall is also known as ‘Hidden Falls’. Like many ‘hidden’ places around the world, it is not hidden at all. It is advertised with a road from the sign, which directs you to a parking lot and the ticket office. However, due to the nature of the waterfall, it is one of the most unique things to do in Cebu.

The trail only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish but provides a beautiful coconut palm-lined path and peaceful scenery. Most of the path is a steady dirt trail, which we traversed in flip-flops. Enormous palm trees cover the land. One of our guides showed off his rapid climbing skills and gathered some coconuts for us, which was super impressive.

Read the full blog post:   BINALAYAN FALLS (HIDDEN FALLS)

AGUINID FALLS

Aguinid Falls has become one of the most popular waterfalls on the island of Cebu. While it may never surpass the popularity of Kawasan Falls down the road, the Aguinid Falls trek is a great, adventurous activity for explorers of all levels.

You can do a tour that lets you see Aguinid Falls and swim with the Whale Sharks all in one day! That is a great way to see one the best of south Cebu waterfalls and swim with the Whale Sharks on a tight schedule from Cebu City!

Aguinid Falls is split up into multiple levels. The adventure used to take you to eight levels. However, since there were a few accidents and fatalities on the higher levels, you are now required to take a guide and you will only reach level five. Don’t worry this is more than enough adventure!

The adventure to the waterfall is the attraction. You will walk through the water, along with bamboo bridges and at one point scale straight up the waterfall aided by a strong rope. Don’t worry it isn’t vertical. It is more of a 45-degree angle and not slippery at all.

After about half an hour we reached the level 5 waterfall, which pours down over the rounded waterfall. Caves inside can be explored and it is a great place for a refreshing dip. This is definitely one of the best waterfalls on Cebu if you want a big adventure!

Read the full blog post:  AGUINID FALLS IN SAMBOAN

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FREEDIVING WITH SARDINE BALLS IN MOALBOAL

• Snorkeling: The big attraction at Moalboal is the sardine balls. A sardine ball is a collection of thousands of sardines that all swim together in unison. When you dive down they move as a collective this way and that way in what is an incredible dance. You can also just snorkel on the surface and still witness this natural phenomenon. The best part about the sardines is that they’re only 30-meters from the shore. This means you don’t need to pay for a tour or rent a boat. All you need is your goggles and mask. It’s one of the cheapest and most unique things to do in Cebu.
• Freediving: It is very popular to learn to free dive in Moalboal because of the drop-off and has become a bit of a hub for free-divers. The prices for courses and dives here are pretty cheap in relation to Asia and very cheap compared to western countries. If you are looking to do a basic course, it usually runs across 2-3 days and costs you around $200. By the end of the course, you know all the safety techniques and have the skills to dive down to 10-meters in order to pass your basic exam.

SWIM WITH THE RESIDENT TURTLES

Moalboal is home to hundreds of turtles. Every day swimming and snorkeling near the drop-off I would encounter sometimes up to five turtles! This is why Moalboal is one of the most popular tourist spots in Cebu.

The best place near Moalboal to look for turtles is in between Tongo Point and Main beach at Moalboal although they seem to be everywhere. You will also find turtles around other spots in the south of Cebu but I have only personally swum with them in Moalboal.

CANCALANOG FALLS

Cancalanog Falls is one of the most incredible spots on Cebu and it remains off the beaten path. While it isn’t a massive waterfall it boasts some incredibly transparent, fresh water in a stunning watering hole.

The location is before Cambais Falls and only 1 hour from  Moalboal . I honestly couldn’t believe it when we arrived at this location and there was no-one else there it really topped it off. In fact, no-one else came to this spot for the entire afternoon in which we visited. 

Read the full blog post:   CANCALANOG FALLS IN ALEGRIA, CEBU

KANDUNGAW PEAK

Kandungaw Peak is an epic ridge in the mountain range of Dalaguete, Cebu. It is also commonly known as Candongao Peak but Kandungaw seems to be the more commonly used. This short hike of about 30-minutes takes you to some beautiful viewpoints with dramatic drop-offs. There are four viewpoints to see at this location and one additional cave to explore. Kandungaw Peak is one of the lesser-known things to do in Cebu for tourists who usually only know the Osmena Peak Hike.

Read the full blog post:   KANDUNGAW PEAK VIEWPOINT IN DALAGUETE

BUDLAAN FALLS

Not all of the waterfalls on Cebu are in the south, although that famous blue water tends to be. However, if you find yourself near Cebu City there is a cool little waterfall trek up in the hills called Budlaan Falls. When I went, we did an Adventure Bag Adventure Day and had almost 100 people come too Budlaan Waterfall to clean up the trash. Hopefully, it is in good shape when you visit.

The waterfall itself is pretty big and you can get in behind the flow of the waterfall to the caves. You can also trek up on top of the waterfall and follow the canyon below. There’s lots of exploring to do at this waterfall trek that takes about 1-hour round trip.

Read the full blog post:   ADVENTURE BAG ADVENTURE DAY AT BUDLAAN FALLS

MANTAYUPAN FALLS

Mantayupan Falls in Barili is the highest waterfall in Cebu and one of the most beautiful. Set inside a natural amphitheater of trees, vines, and tropical plants, this is truly one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Cebu. It can get quite busy on the weekends for the entire day but visit on a morning during the weekday and you might just enjoy this waterfall all to yourself like us.

Mantayupan Falls has two levels. On the small level is a 14-meter cascade that flows down into a circular pool. It’s the warm-up. On the top level, you will find Cebu’s highest waterfall at 98-meters, which flows down into a huge pool below.

Read the full blog post:  MANTAYUPAN FALLS IN BARILI, CEBU

LUSNO FALLS

Lusno Falls is a bit of a hidden gem on Cebu as it isn’t located next to the main road and is a little bit more low key than some of the other waterfall hotspots on the island. Because of this, it has local charm and a relaxed atmosphere. There is no entrance fee, no cottages, no cement path. It’s just a tranquil waterfall amidst the palms halfway between Argao and Ronda in the middle of Cebu.

The falls are quite beautiful with rounded sandstone that the water flows down over like a vase water feature. With no crowds, it will be a relaxing, off-the-beaten-path adventure. If you’re wondering what to do in Cebu when you’re based in Cebu City, this one is a great day-trip.

Read the full blog post:  LUSNO FALLS IN CEBU: HIDDEN WATERFALL

TINUBDAN FALLS IN CATMON

Tinubdan Falls is a beautiful waterfall in the province of Catmon, which is about 1.5 hours’ drive north from Cebu City. It’s a bit of a hidden gem because it is in the north and most tourists head south to visit popular waterfalls. However, Tinubdan Falls is truly incredible with multiple cascades flowing into a natural swimming pool in the middle of the jungle. 

There are multiple waterfalls, which all stream into a big natural swimming pool that sits beneath them all. Throughout the are you can find lots of little places to soak in a fresh-water spa beneath one of the cascades. 

View the full blog post:   TINUBDAN FALLS IN CATMON CEBU: A HIDDEN GEM

ESOY HOT SPRING IN CATMON

The Esoy Hot Spring is one of only two thermal springs on Cebu and is an incredibly relaxing activity in the jungle of Catmon. The spring isn’t heated by volcanic activity but is a geothermal pool and has a slight sulfuric smell but nothing too strong. The pool wasn’t as hot as the Mainit Springs  in the south of Cebu. However, there was one corner where the water poured directly out of the wall and this was really warm. It was so relaxing laying there at the hot water source on the rocks.

Throughout the last ten years, the temperature of the water has changed and some of the springs that were previously hot are no longer heated. This has been affected by earthquakes and natural changes. 

View the full blog post :  ESOY HOT SPRING AND KA-TINGGO FALLS IN CATMON, CEBU

KA-TINGGO WATERFALL

Ka-Tinggo Falls is an incredible waterfall located inside a canyon in the Catmon region. It is a 4-meter high cascade that flows down into a large chasm below. It reminded me a lot of another waterfall in the south of Cebu called Kabutongan Falls .

The canyon is incredible with how it has been smoothly shaped over time. There are lots of little crevasses to explore here and even a few caves throughout the pool. 

There were two parts of the Ka-Tinggo Falls that I really loved. First was the optional cliff jump. If you are up for it, your guide will take you on a little climb up and around the side of the canyon. It wasn’t hard but I wouldn’t go on this little trek if you aren’t up for an adventure.

You will emerge at the top of the falls and then you can jump down into the pool below. You can see my jump below!

SCUBA-DIVING IN MOALBOAL

Scuba-diving is also a popular thing to do in Moalboal because of the incredible drop-off, sardine balls, and resident turtles. The water clarity is pretty epic on most days and it would be a great place for a fun dive or to do your entire scuba-dive course. There are also a number of scuba-dive sites out at Pescador Island, which is just a short boat trip from Panagsama Beach

HIMBABAWUD FALLS

The Himbabawud Falls is an incredible series of waterfalls in Busay, Cebu just a 40-minute drive from Cebu City. To reach the falls you first need to drive to Lava Mountain River Farm and then trek for 45-minutes through the river to reach the Himbabawud Falls. 

This is one of the wildest waterfall treks on Cebu as you are often completely surrounded by a wall of green as you wade through the water of the river, following it all the way to the waterfall. I really loved this one and it’s super close to Cebu City.

View the full blog post :  HIMBABAWUD FALLS IN BUSAY, CEBU: HIDDEN WATERFALL

WHERE TO STAY IN CEBU?

I really think that if you are going to be exploring Cebu, the best place to stay is in Moalboal. There are a few reasons why!

Cebu City might be where you land at the airport but if you are looking for adventure, you will need to head south as soon as possible. Most of the best waterfalls, whale sharks, snorkeling with sardines and turtles are all down in the south of Cebu. So where do you stay to do all of these adventures? Moalboal!

Moalboal is a cool town, which is the free-diving and scuba capital of Cebu. There are tons of hostels, hotels, and hostels here as well as being close to all the waterfalls and hikes in the region.

Here are my recommendations on where to stay in Moalboal depending on your budget.

• Teobas Homestay – Value : You need to click on that link just to see how rad this place is. It has a staircase down to the ocean into crystal clear water. I can tell you, I have snorkeled out the front of this place with turtles many times. For about $30 USD you get a private room with all of the facilities you need. There is not much better than having ocean access and a bit of a sunset view!

Teobas Homestay

• Ocean Staircase
• Dolphin House Resort – Luxury : If you are looking for a nice resort, Dolphin House is a 5-star resort with a huge pool for less than $200 USD per night. It has ocean access, great restaurant, chilling areas and a beautiful garden throughout the property.

Dolphin House Resort

• Private Pool

TRANSPORT OPTIONS FOR CEBU

There’s lots of different transport options to get around Cebu depending on the size of your group, travel style and length of your journey. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect.

Moped: The best way to get around Cebu Island is through moped/scooter rentals. A moped can be rented for about $8 a day but that price may come down if your rental is more than a week long. The roads aren’t always great to and from the waterfalls and hikes so drive safely. You will need your regular drivers license from your home country and a helmet to avoid any issues. Below are the other main transport options for Cebu.

• Tricycles : the most common means of private transportation in the Philippines, accommodating 2-4 passengers, more than a motorcycle. This allows you to hire a driver to transport you to various attractions and things to do in Cebu.
• The Habal Habal : essentially a “scooter taxi,” is an economical option for single passengers who don’t wish to rent their own vehicle.
• Jeepneys : vibrant buses used by locals for transportation in the Philippines. Operating on fixed routes, they provide a shared riding experience and offer a unique opportunity to interact with the local community. Expect to be crammed in like sardines but it’s the authentic transport mode for locals.
• Vans : available for transportation, typically offered by resorts, hotels, and private transportation companies. This option will be the most expensive, it can be a worthwhile choice during rainy weather or for larger groups.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT CEBU

When considering the weather, the best time to visit Cebu, Philippines, is generally during the dry season which runs from December to May. During this period, the weather is more predictable, with less chance of rain disrupting outdoor activities. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Dry Season (December – May) : This period is characterized by less rainfall and more sunshine. Among these months, February to May are especially good as they tend to be hot and dry, making them perfect for beach-related activities.
• Cool Months (December – February) : The months of December to February are part of the dry season but are slightly cooler compared to other months. This makes it a good time to visit if you prefer more moderate temperatures.
• Hot Months (March – May) : These months can get quite hot, but if you’re planning on spending time at the beach or by the pool, this could be the ideal time for you.
• Rainy Season (June – November) : These months have more rainfall, which can disrupt outdoor activities. However, the rain can also bring cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, which some visitors might prefer.

MORE CEBU TRAVEL GUIDES

• Ultimate Cebu Bucketlist:   26 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON CEBU
• Canyoneering Guide:   KAWASAN FALLS CEBU CANYONEERING
• Ultimate Oslob Guide:   WHAT TO DO IN OSLOB CEBU
• Digital Nomad Guide to Moalboal:   THE DIGITAL NOMAD GUIDE TO MOALBOAL, CEBU
• Waterfall Chasing: 14 BEST WATERFALLS IN CEBU
• Moalboal Guide: 20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MOALBOAL
• Alegria Guide: 13 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ALEGRIA
• Hiking Osmena Peak:   OSMEÑA PEAK IN CEBU – A BEAUTIFUL SUNRISE HIKE

MORE OF MY PHILIPPINES GUIDES

• The Ultimate Philippines Itinerary:   3-4 WEEK PHILIPPINES ITINERARY
• Best Island Hopping Trip : BIG DREAM BOAT MAN IN CORON
• The Backpacker’s Guide to the Philippines:   1 MONTH FOR $800
• Ultimate Guide to Coron: 22 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN CORON
• Ultimate Guide to Siargao : 40 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SIARGAO
• Ultimate Guide to Romblon : 17 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN ROMBLON
• Ultimate Guide to El Nido : 20 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN EL NIDO
• Ultimate Guide to Bohol : 27 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN BOHOL
• Ultimate Guide to Sibuyan : 9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SIBUYAN

MY ACCOMMODATION GUIDES FOR THE PHILIPPINES

• Luxury in South Cebu: 18 BEST SOUTH CEBU RESORTS
• Bucketlist: 13 BEST PHILIPPINES OVERWATER BUNGALOWS
• Beach Resorts in North Cebu: BEST RESORTS IN CEBU
• El Nido Resorts: 12 BEST RESORTS IN EL NIDO
• Moalboal Accommodation: WHERE TO STAY IN MOALBOAL
• Panglao Resorts: 13 BEST LUXURY RESORTS IN PANGLAO
• Siargao Accommodation: WHERE TO STAY IN SIARGAO
• Hostels in Cebu : 10 BEST HOSTELS IN CEBU
• Sustainable Resorts: 12 BEST ECO RESORTS IN THE PHILIPPINES
• Coron Accommodation : WHERE TO STAY IN CORON

Tuesday 26th of December 2023

Hi there, awesome blog, thank you. Wondering if it would be possible to also include a map and some info on how easy it was to hire a car and get around.

Barren Evans

Tuesday 11th of July 2023

Hello! Thanks for your kind words. I am so happy that you liked the blog. If you need to arrange transportation or guides in these locations, I suggest looking at local resources. Consult local tour operators and travel agencies that specialize in customized itineraries. They can help arrange transportation and guides for certain activities such as sunrise treks or waterfall visits. You can also contact local tourism boards, or conduct thorough research online to identify reputable providers that offer unique experiences. Plan ahead and reserve your desired activities in advance. Enjoy your travels.

Sunday 5th of January 2020

I used your blog before my one month trip to Cebu to get ideas of where to go. I really liked the Cambais falls and another one you the Kangkalanog that I loved the most. I like less touristy places. Also, the Monkey Viewing area near Oslob was an experience in itself, you didn't have that here. Who needs the Chocolate Hills when you have the Casino Peak? Similar view and not that many tourists. Nice blog and it helped a lot! Thanks

Friday 3rd of January 2020

Fantastic way of presenting your blog with useful content.

Wednesday 30th of October 2019

Naa lage laen kuyug chix si Caloy diha? haha

Visiting South Cebu: 3 Day-Itinerary + 7 Best Things To Do

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Before I visited Cebu, I thought Cebu was just an ordinary place in the Philippines: beaches, beautiful beaches, and absolutely paradise-like beaches. I’ve been to several of these beaches, and I felt Cebu was just another place I knew. 

It was a shame I underestimated Cebu for so long. Why? Because when I went here, my whole perspective of Cebu was proven wrong. Since then, Cebu has become a place I would love to visit over and over again.

In this post, I share how you can spend 3 days (or 4) in South Cebu , the part of Cebu that totally changed my perspective about Cebu. You’ll also find the discussion of the  7 unmissable places/attractions included in the itinerary.

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you.

Use the table of contents to skip to topics.

One of the advantages of Cebu when it comes to tourism is that it’s an island that offers not only one, two, or three attractions but MANY travel experiences . Cebu has:

• Awesome life-changing adventures
• Paradise-like beaches
• Out of this world underwater sanctuary
• Stunning mountain views
• Roaring waterfalls
• Crazy city experience
• Mouth-watering food
• A lively and vibrant festival
• Colorful gardens

Cebu has everything you’ll ever wish to experience, and it is only one island in the Philippines! You don’t need to fly, cross borders, and book many hotels just to experience everything.

Also, Cebu might be one of the largest islands in the Philippines. But, you’ll realize it isn’t that big when you arrive.

Most attractions here are an hour to two hours away from each other, particularly in the southern part of Cebu island .

Read my other blog posts about the Philippines

Is South Cebu Worth Visiting?

Cebu is the adventure capital of the Philippines, and most fun is found in South Cebu . People who want to have fun and get a rush of adrenaline in their system will definitely enjoy South Cebu! Also, with the beautiful scenery and spectacular marine life, it’s easy to say that South Cebu is worth visiting .

To be honest, I was mind blown by South Cebu when I realized that there were so many fun things I have experienced already… and I’m just in one part of the Philippines!

What’s better? You don’t need a week to have fun and really enjoy Cebu.

See the best hotel deals in Cebu here .

After I discuss the itinerary, I’ll show you the list of 7 unmissable things to do in South Cebu (with pictures), summarizing the fun you can have in this part of the Philippines.

How Many Days In South Cebu?

With a properly-planned itinerary , a strategic home base , or having your own private vehicle or motorbike — 3 days will be enough to have all the best experiences in Southern Cebu . 3 days include Moalboal Sardine Run, hiking to Osmeña Peak, canyoneering in Badian, watching Oslob Whale Shark, and a relaxing trip to Sumilon Island.

If you’re tight on budget/time, two days in South Cebu could work . Make sure you include Badian Canyoneering/Kawasan Falls and Moalboal Sardine Run on your itinerary! They’re the most enjoyable attractions in South Cebu.

We’ll discuss the tourist attractions I mentioned later. Stay tuned!

For me, a two-day trip to Cebu isn’t worth the hassle of planning and researching how you can travel around Cebu/see the best attractions on the island. 

Also, if you have only two days, you would want to have the best experiences immediately . Time is gold! No more negotiations (for example, in boat & equipment rental), asking questions for directions, etc.

This is why travelers who plan to visit South Cebu only for two days should consider having a trip to South Cebu prepared by certified travel services instead. They’ll make your trip to Southern Cebu seamless without effort.

Like, you won’t have to worry about renting your own vehicle/riding a bus/chartering tricycles, etc. 

To be honest , when I visited Cebu, I was with my co-workers. And although we had 4 days in Cebu (1 day in Bohol), we all agreed to go on a tour because we only wanted to unwind and have fun ! LOL.

Thanks to my friend, he has a connection with a local tour guide who prepared everything for us (including the private vehicle, entrances to tourist attractions, and all).

The result? We so much enjoyed south Cebu with no significant bummer along our trip… and yes, we were all talking about returning to Cebu on our flight back to Manila!

In the Philippines, you can find a lot of tour guides/travel groups on Facebook Groups who can offer you the same service as we had. You can join the DIY Travel Philippines community on Facebook and post an inquiry about a trip to Cebu.

However, you must be careful . If the person/user who offered you a tour service has a Facebook page with a high review, the better. We don’t want to be scammed .

To be sure that you won’t be scammed, here is a list of accredited tours/services by an international tour company you can trust:

You can already enjoy South Cebu with these tours, but I strongly recommend you give South Cebu more time. Within three days is South Cebu or more:

• You’ll be able to do adventure and rest each day
• You have spare time to get in touch with the locals, learn the transportation system, etc.
• And of course, enjoy more attractions!

That said, let’s now discuss the 3-day itinerary I prepared for you. Let’s go!

3-Day South Cebu Itinerary

Before everything, know that the 3-day itinerary I share below only includes the attractions and things to do in South Cebu. 

However, I added a bonus/optional day (Day 4). It is about Cebu City and some of its points of interest. As we did, you can conduct this optional day in Cebu before Day 1 or after Day 3. 

In summary, this three-day South Cebu itinerary is focused on three parts of South Cebu, Moalboal , Badian , and Oslob . These are the towns in Cebu where you can find the best attractions in Cebu:

• Sardine Run is in Moalboal ( Day 1 )
• Osmeña Peak, Kawasan Falls, & canyoneering are in Badian ( Day 2 )
• Whale Shark Watching and Sumilon Island are in/accessed from Oslob ( Day 3 )

Aside from these 5 attractions mentioned, we also tried Aguinid Falls and Pescador Island . However, I did not include them in this 3-day itinerary because it could be exhausting to have many adventures packed together in 3 days .

Believe me, we tried.

So, based on the lessons we learned, I created this 3-day South Cebu Itinerary for an enjoyable and a little laidback adventurous trip .

I assume you’ll have your own rented vehicle (car, van, or motorbike) for this trip. I don’t recommend commuting. It can work , though. You only have to anticipate a little challenge in moving around.

Here’s how public transportation works in South Cebu:

Buses – each town (Moalboal, Badian, Oslob) is linked to Cebu City by buses plying around the island.

Tricycle/Habal-Habal — are like the taxis you can charter to bring you to the best attractions in south Cebu. You must be good at negotiating skills.

If you like to conveniently move around different parts of South Cebu, I suggest you charter a private car from the link below. (You will not pay gas, toll, or parking fees.)

Car Charter is ideal if you travel as a couple, as a small group, or with your family.

Okay, let’s talk about the details of days 1 to 3!

IMPORTANT . The timestamps in this itinerary are only approximations based on experience (the traveling times between places are based on Google Maps’ estimation). Unpredictable circumstances may occur (rain, road repair, etc.), so please check first the weather/news/government announcements before taking the actual trip using this itinerary.

Day 1 — Moalboal: Sardine Run

The Day 1 of this 3-day South Cebu itinerary aims to let you experience one of the most spectacular things you can ever find in Cebu, a sardine run . This is also when you should do everything necessary for your stay in South Cebu.

During the morning of Day 1 of this South Cebu itinerary, I’m assuming:

• You have just landed/arrived in Cebu City from a flight from Manila or other places
• Or you are preparing to leave your hotel in Cebu City after visiting the points of interest in the city. (a day and night before)
• Heavy brunch
• Prepare to travel to South Cebu
• Tourists with a private vehicle : Depart from Cebu City.
• Tourists who want to Commute: Be at Cebu South Bus Terminal for a bus to Moalboal.
• Arrival in Moalboal (Road travel from Cebu City to Moalboal takes 2 to 3 hours depending on the traffic situation )
• Check-in accommodation.
• Rent a motorbike if you don’t have a van/private car.

Tourists who arrived at Moalboal by bus: If you prefer to rent a motorbike to get around South Cebu, you may also want to find/hire a habal-habal driver to help you visit Day 2 attractions. 

You can find the best hotel deals in Moalboal here .

• Rent equipment or join snorkeling/driving tours (Popular gear and boat rentals/tour providers: Sea Quest Dive Center)
• Beach and Sardine Run 
• Return snorkel/driving gears.
• Watch the sunset.
• Dinner and beers

Home rentals and other types of accommodation (i.e., Airbnb) typically allow check-in only after 2:00 pm. This is why I set the arrival time to Badian/Moalboal at 2:00 pm.

However, if you can come early and negotiate with the property owner to let you check-in in the morning —it would be better. You can depart from Cebu City to South Cebu much earlier; leave your luggage in the rooms and enjoy more time watching the sardine run.

If you have this spare time, you can join a boat and diving tour to Pescador Island , where even more spectacular marine life awaits. You can check the tour below for more information.

Day 2 — Badian: Osmeña Peak & Canyoneering

I suggest sleeping early on your first night in South Cebu . Because the second day of this South Cebu itinerary will be an all-out adventure!

Also, the day’s gonna start very early. 

On the second day in South Cebu, we aim to catch the sunrise from the top of Cebu Island called Osmeña Peak . Going to Osmeña Peak involves a very short and easy hike that you can finish within 30 minutes.

I recommend bringing a packed breakfast to Osmeña Peak. The panoramic views from Osmeña peak are perfect for one lovely, Instagrammable picnic. 

After watching the sunrise from Osmeña Peak, you’ll proceed to Kawasan Falls and Canyoneering Adventure .

Osmeña peak and Kawasan Falls are both located in Badian . This is why it is logical to have these adventures on the same day. 

That’s what we did.

• Wake up and prepare to leave your hostel/hotel.
• Eat something before you leave.
• Proceed to the Osmeña Peak hike trailhead.

If you’re from Moalboal, it may take 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the Osmeña Peak hike trailhead. You can use Google Maps to lead you to the hike trailhead to Osmeña Peak. 

However, you must download the map before going. This is for you to see your location (and not get lost) even in other parts of the road to Osmeña peak that have no cellular connection. 

For travelers using motorbikes: Be extra careful if you plan to use motorbikes to get to the trailhead of the hike to Osmeña Peak. 

The road is inclined, curvy, and dark, with only a few street lamps, and you can encounter many potholes. I’m not sure if the road condition has improved, but still… you really have to slow down when reaching the mountainous part. 

It would be better if you could find, ask, and hire a habal-habal driver who is already familiar with the road to Osmeña Peak as soon as you arrive in Moalboal… Locals (i.e., motorbike rental owners) can often refer you to a habal-habal driver.

• Arrival at Osmeña Peak hike trailhead
• Sign up and register for the hike.
• Start the hike!
• Enjoy the summit and the panoramic view.
• Take pictures and feel the morning breeze.
• Breakfast and picnic time.
• Depart from Osmeña Peak hike trailhead
• Start the hike and canyoneering to Kawasan Falls. 

You can find many local companies (in Badian) offering canyoneering tours. Some of them can be contacted through their Facebook pages. Just search “Canyoneering Kawasan Falls Tours” on Facebook.

Contact these local companies several days before your actual trip to South Cebu. Make sure you pick the tour that ends in Kawasan Falls.

Typically, the more you are in a group, the lower the price/pax you will pay. It would be better if you could find a group to join with! You may also make new friends.

By the way, bring pocket money so you can buy barbeque and hotdogs from vendors in the middle of the canyon!

• Late lunch near Kawasan Falls
• CR break/change clothes

If you want a trustable service to conveniently bring you to Osmeña Peak and organize your Kawasan Canyoneering Adventure, check out the links below:

These tours will not follow the hours in the itinerary I set for Day 2. But, rest assured, it’ll be all convenient . 

However, if you can wake up early, hire a driver, and find a good deal of canyoneering tours from local companies—in that case, follow this itinerary for your second day in South Cebu (I strongly recommend it). 

For me, it is much better to begin your canyoneering adventure by 9:00 am so you may avoid a considerable number of tourists.

While there are only a few people in the canyon, you can run and jump off the cliff into the turquoise water several times without falling and waiting in line. 

It’s absolute fun!

That said, it is necessary to eat your breakfast in Osmeña Peak. It will enable you to start your canyoneering adventure in Kawasan Falls early. 

• Back to Moalboal
• Return the motorbike
• Rest/Refreshments
• Pick up luggage and proceed to Oslob.

Travelers who want to commute: to get to Oslob from Moalboal, first, ride the bus to Bato (ferry terminal). You can find buses returning to Cebu City in the Bato Terminal, passing Oslob ( Last trip: 5:30 pm ). Hop on that bus and alight in Oslob.

• Arrival at Oslob
• Check-in accommodation in Oslob
• Rest finally! (Sleep early)

I suggest going to Oslob and staying there the night before Day 3 for six reasons .

• Whale Shark watching (the next activity) is only available from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm . 
• Whale Shark watching often gets a tremendous amount of tourists. The queue to get your turn can become lengthy after 8:00 am or 9:00 am . Waiting time can reach 1 hour or more (that’s what we have experienced)!
• You should aim to visit and watch the whale sharks around 6:00 to 7:00 am. No long queues, short waiting time and it is not that hot yet. Most importantly, you would not want to fall behind the cut-off limit. 
• Tourists who prefer commuting in South Cebu take note of this . It’s nearly impossible/expensive to commute from Moalboal to Oslob very early during the dawn. It seems impossible to achieve #3 if you’ll be coming from Moalboal without a private vehicle. 
• While we were in the whale shark watching waiting area, we only found very few luggage storage lockers in Oslob (whale shark watching area). You can’t bring your bags to the boat while watching whale sharks. Where you can store your luggage can be a problem if you commute or don’t have accommodation in Oslob.
• If you are already in your hotel in Oslob on the morning of Day 3, you can achieve #3, and you won’t have the problem stated in #5.

Click here to see all the best hotel deals in Oslob .

Important . The tours to Kawasan Falls and Osmeña Peak I linked previously typically finish late in the afternoon. The tour coordinators can only bring you back to your accommodation on or after 6:00 pm if you join.

By that hour (or later), it can already be challenging to catch bus rides to Oslob from Moalboal. I contacted my friends who frequently visit Cebu, and they have the same opinion.

This is why I would only suggest that you only avail the tour if:

• You have a private vehicle; Or
• You found a group/other travelers you can share the cost for private transportation to Oslob from Moalboal after the canyoneering adventure in Kawasan Falls—this can be the best solution.
• You are willing to charter a taxi which I would not recommend because it will be costly, considering the distance from Moalboal to Oslob.

Day 3 — Oslob: Whale Shark & Sumilon Island

Day 3 of this South Cebu itinerary focuses on visiting the attractions in the southeastern portion of Cebu, particularly in Oslob . You’ll see the amazing Whale Shark and stunning white sand of Sumilon Island.

You can effortlessly conduct Day 3 using the tour below:

If you want it DIY, follow the itinerary I prepared below.

Since Oslob is in the southeastern part of Cebu, you may watch a beautiful sunrise from the beaches. You can find cafes along the road where you can already see a panoramic view of the sea. Some are already open after 5:00 am.

• Whale Shark watching
• Take a bath
• Change clothes
• Go to Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort Port and get a boat ride to Sumilon Island.

Tip: Locals may offer you a private boat ride to Sumilon Island. But I suggest a cheaper alternative where you can join other tourists on a boat to Sumilon Island.

Sumilon Bluewater resort offers a day tour, including a boat tour from Oslob to Sumilon. Learn more or book from their official website .

• Arrival at Sumilon Island
• Enjoy Sand bar
• Picture taking

Also, guests can enter Sumilon Island’s private property with a day tour . Walk-in is possible, but the number of participants per day is limited. Again, it’s better to come early! Learn more about Sumilon Bluewater resort from their FAQ page .

• Boat ride returning to Oslob
• Return to Cebu City.

Optional Day — Cebu City

Whether you plan to visit northern or southern Cebu, Cebu City must always be included in your itinerary. It has urban adventure, giant malls, cultural heritage sites, vibrant culture, nightlife, and even nature spots!

Also, if you’re looking for pasalubong, Cebu City has many shops where you can buy affordable treats for family members at home. You can try Cebu Lechon, Cebu dried fish and squid, dried mangoes, etc.

If you have spare time , you can add this optional day (Day 4) after Day 3. But remember, you can also explore Cebu City before you start your adventures in South Cebu. 

Considering that you can extend your trip to Cebu or South Cebu to four days, here’s what I can suggest: 

• If your first day in Cebu falls on a Saturday, have the Cebu City tour on a Saturday.
• Else, if your last day in Cebu falls on a Sunday, have the Cebu City tour on a Sunday.
• Else, have it whenever you want.

What’s our goal here? Spend most part of your trip to South Cebu on weekdays . Undoubtedly, your adventures in South Cebu would be more enjoyable if fewer people were at the attractions. 

At the same time, we want photobomber-free photos, right? Haha!

Anyway, I assume you would spend half of your day on Day 4 on departure/arrival activities (i.e., Flight, Ferry to/from Bohol, buying souvenirs, pasalubong, etc.) 

Obviously, and with all that I said, this Optional Day (Day 4) can be done in two ways:

•  Cebu City tour then 3-Day South Cebu
• 3-Day South Cebu then Cebu City tour

Cebu City Tour + 3-Day South Cebu

• Arrival at Cebu City
• Lunch in Lechon House

Lechon House is a top-rated foodie destination in Cebu. It can be filled with travelers and foodies desiring to taste Cebu’s famous dish, Cebu Lechon, during lunchtime. It would be better to make reservations (contact them through their Facebook Page )

Within Metro Cebu, you can find 3 Lechon House restaurants.

• Temple of Leah
• Take photos
• Eat Ice Cream
• Sirao Flower Farm
• Picture Taking
• Cebu Tops Lookout
• Watch Sunset 
• Dinner and Beers in Top of Cebu or La Vie in the Sky.

La Vie in the Sky opens at 9:00 am. The food can be a bit pricey. Yet, the view while eating is breathtaking! The interiors are Instagrammable too.

3-Day South Cebu + Cebu City Tour

• Breakfast in the hotel
• Enjoy the view
• La Vie in the Sky
• Take pictures
• Lechon House

The Temple of Leah, Cebu Tops Lookout, and Sirao Flower Farm are located near each other. They are perched in the mountainous part of the city, where you can see an overlooking view of the entire Cebu metropolis. 

To get around Cebu City, you can use Grab (South East Asia’s version of Uber). The last time I checked, Grab lets you hire motorcycle taxis which cost less than a ride on a 4-wheeled vehicle. Angkas is an alternative to Grab’s motorcycle ride-hailing service. 

If you are traveling in a small group, I recommend chartering a car (with a driver). 

It’s absolutely convenient. You won’t worry about gas, tolls, and parking fees. And, of course, air-conditioned! It’s worth it, especially if you split the payment with your group mates.

7 Unmissable Things To Do in South Cebu

I know the 3-day South Cebu itinerary is information overload. 

There might be so much to consider, but don’t let them discourage you! I promise— they are ALL worth it .

The fun and memorable memories you can have in South Cebu are some of the best you can find in the Philippines. If you’re in your 20s or early 30s and want to feel alive , South Cebu won’t let you down!

In this part, I will share my experiences and thoughts about the attractions I mentioned in the 3-day South Cebu itinerary I shared. They should explain why the 7 attractions in the itinerary are unmissable things to do in Cebu or South Cebu.

As far as I can remember, we have visited 15 attractions in Cebu (Cebu City and South Cebu). Seven of these places left a beautiful mark on my heart or impressed me very much.

I arranged the 7 attractions, from the place I like to the one I absolutely love!

1. Sirao Garden, Little Amsterdam

If you are looking for photo opportunities in Cebu, Sirao Flower Garden is the place you are looking for. It’s a scenic attraction, filled with flowers and picturesque structures not common in the Philippines.

And yeah, it can slightly make you feel like it’s not the Philippines at all. Because of the thousands of flowers and windmills , Sirao Garden depicts the character of northwestern Europe.

However, perched on the top of the mountains, I found “ Little Amsterdam ,” the other name of Sirao Garden, confusing. 

Why? Because Amsterdam is located in the Netherlands, in a part of Europe that’s mostly flat. In fact, some parts of the Netherlands lie below sea level. 

Nonetheless, Sirao Flower Garden still captivated me with its overall refreshing appearance. You should not doubt it because I think it was primarily made to become an Instagrammable attraction . 

We visited Sirao Flower Garden early in the morning . The warmth of the rising sun, the cold and fresh breeze, and blooming flowers in all colors gave me some kind of detoxifying experience. 

For me, that’s the best part, which is also the reason why Sirao Flower Garden is an unmissable attraction in Cebu.

Sirao Flower Garden looks so pretty that it can be a prenup setting for couples. Actually, when I visited the Garden, I was with a couple friends. 

And, guess what, they made me their photographer! It was not bad at all. I enjoyed it in a way.

If you’re traveling as a couple or an influencer, you can find many spots in Sirao Flower Garden where you can take photos. You can go to the top of the concrete palm, enter inside the spirit nest, ride swings, or simply pose beside the windmill.  

Remember that Sirao is a barangay in Cebu, and it has several flower gardens aside from “Little Amsterdam.” Don’t be confused about which is the “original” and which you must visit. 

You can check the Facebook Page of Sirao Garden – Little Amsterdam for more details like visiting information and announcements. (Their websites are no longer functional).

2. Cebu Tops Lookout

Beside barangay Sirao is barangay Busay , where you can find Cebu Tops Lookout. It is another attraction in Cebu, unmissable for its breathtaking overlooking view of the city and picturesque resto-bar (La Vie in the Sky). 

Cebu Tops Lookout, or simply Tops, is a fort-like vantage point of Cebu City perched on the peak of Mount Busay.

If there’s another place that Tops reminds me of, it’s Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak. Both of them let you see a view of the forest, city, and sea.

It was very early in the morning when we visited Tops. What was my first impression of Tops? Idyllic (for two reasons).

First, the view (at least during our visit) is really remarkable. My visit to Tops made me feel like I was flying, with the clouds aligned to my eye level. I was delighted because the weather was pleasant that day.

Although it does not happen all the time, my second reason is the Yoga session in Tops. 

There was a Yoga session happening during our visit to Tops. And, the background music they were using during their medication made me feel like I’m in a place that’s heaven on earth. 

As I walked around the view deck, I heard drum beats that sounded extremely therapeutic .

I’m not sure, but I think it was Dawata Wellness who conducted a Yoga session at that time.

That said, it was the atmosphere in Tops that made me say that it’s an unmissable place in Cebu. 

But how about when it is not morning… and there’s no Yoga session? Well, it’s where La Vie in the Sky comes into the picture. To be frank, La Vie in the Sky can actually be the main reason why you’d come to Tops!

La Vie in the Sky is an elegant resto bar a few steps from Tops. And, you should be able to reach La Vie in the Sky first if you’re from Sirao Garden going to Tops.  

La Vie in the Sky feels so French. They serve French bread with wine . They also have pizza, pasta, gelato, waffles, and Yakitori on their menu. You can learn more from their Instagram account below:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by La Vie In The Sky (@lavieinthesky)

3. Osmeña Peak

I will always say this travel gospel to anyone asking if they should go to Cebu or not— Cebu island is a worth visiting place because it’s an all-in-one destination. Whether it is the beach, canyon, city, or mountains you like to visit, Cebu got them all for you!

Speaking of mountains, do you know where the highest point in Cebu is? It’s no other than Osmeña Peak . 

Osmeña Peak is an unmissable place in the South because it is where you can see an otherworldly mountain top filled with craggy small pointy peaks. Limestone rock formations and an overlooking view of Moalboal also await you there.

Other peaks in Osmeña Peak have a smoother appearance, which looks a bit similar to the Chocolate Hills in Bohol . 

The hike to Osmeña Peak is short, and beginners won’t find any problem aside from the slippery and unfirm rocks on the ground. I found the downhill hike slightly challenging because of these.

You can pitch your tent and camp for the night in Osmeña Peak. During our hike, I saw a few campers near the peak. 

Honestly, I think the panorama from Osmeña Peak is pretty unique, but the awe it gives—it’s no match compared to the awe from Mount Pulag’s summit. Here’s my Mount Pulag hiking story and a glimpse of what you can expect on that mountain.

Here’s my guide to Mount Pulag .

You might also want to discover the beautiful attractions around Mount Mayon—the perfect cone-shaped volcano in Albay, Philippines. Believe it or not, Albay also has its own version of Chocolate Hills with Mount Mayon in the backdrop.

Learn more about Mayon Volcano and the attractions near it from here .

4. Sumilon Island

Sumilon Island has a beach, one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen . I am impressed by the ultra-clear blue water in its stunning white sand bar. Remove the tourists from the scene; it will be a picture of a true paradise .

Absolutely, it is an unmissable place you must visit during your trip to South Cebu.

On a map, you can find Sumilon Island east of the southernmost tip of Cebu Island . It can be accessed from the Bluewater Sumilon Island Port, where you can find motor boats to Sumilon Island. Don’t forget that you can share boats with other tourists to save money.

You can already reach the port by foot (a 15-minute walk) going south from the Whale Shark Watching area.

If you follow the pieces of advice I mentioned in the itinerary (getting to Oslob before Day 3), you will not end up like what happened to us. 

Basically, we were only able to spend a short time on Sumilon Island because we spent too much time waiting for our turn in Whale Shark Watching activity. I think it was already lunchtime when we finished watching whale sharks.

So, it was already afternoon when we arrived on Sumilon Island.

And because it was already late , we weren’t able to have Sumilon Bluewater Resort’s day tour.

To give you a perspective, we departed from Moalboal for Oslob around 6:00 am (as far as I can remember). That’s why we arrived in Oslob around 8:30 am. And the Whale Shark Watching waiting area was already filled with tourists by that time!

Although it was a shame that we missed the opportunity to see the whole beauty of Sumilon Island, I think we still enjoyed our visit. As I mentioned in the beginning, it’s like paradise, and the view alone is worth it!

We literally took hundreds of photos on Sumilon Island during our 2-hour visit. 

The scenery is just so beautiful that some of us did not even care if it was burning to stay under the sun and take epic Instagrammable shots! HAHA!

5. Oslob Whale Shark Watching

Indeed, we spent more than an hour in the waiting area to see the whale sharks. Was it worth the wait? Oh, yes, absolutely!

If you haven’t seen or haven’t been so close to a marine animal that’s so enormous and so incredible before, the whale sharks in Oslob will be your first genuinely memorable encounter! 

By the way, what is a whale shark?

Whale sharks are the largest of any fish alive today and are the largest living nonmammalian vertebrates . On average, they are 12 meters (40 feet) long and can grow larger up to 18 meters (59 feet).

Can you imagine how enormous they are?! 

This is why the Whale Shark Watching activity in Oslob is an unmissable thing to do when you visit South Cebu .

The thing is, the whale sharks in Oslob aren’t in a giant aquarium. And you won’t observe them behind unbreakable glass. You’ll behold these gigantic fish while you’re in the sea with them!

It’s so exciting, right?!

There are services that allow scuba diving with whale sharks. But in our case, we had the Whale Shark Watching experience that most tourists want: snorkeling near the whale sharks.

You do not have to bring your own snorkeling gear during the Whale Shark Watching experience. The caretakers/boat tour guides will hand you a snorkeling mask and safety jackets before you go whale shark watching.

But first, the authorities will ask you to register and attend an orientation about whale sharks before the main Whale Shark Watching activity.

The entire Whale Shark Watching activity lasts for 30 minutes . And although it may sound like a blink of an eye, it’s actually more than enough. Within 30 minutes, you can already marvel at 2 to 3 different whale sharks , and watch them swim and eat.

To watch whale sharks from afar is absolute amazement ! You’ll see their gills open and close, move their enormous fins to swim, and open their mouth to eat the tiny fish the fishermen throw on the water.

But, it’s a different case when one of these whale sharks comes too close to you, like what happened to me.

When I was in the water, one of the whale sharks opened its freaking colossal mouth only a few meters away from me. I was in a panic! I thought it was going to swallow me alive.

If only I could scream underwater, I would have screamed so loud! LOL. HAHA!

Swiftly, I moved away from the whale shark and immediately crawled up to our boat. 

I was gasping while asking our guide if there was already an incident when a whale shark ate a tourist. He replied that whale sharks only chomp fish and small marine animals. 

Our guide and I laughed. 

6. Moalboal Sardine Run

Growing up in the Philippines, I quickly got used to the sea. I thought every island or beach could only give the same experience: beautiful sunsets, hot sand, peace from the sound of crashing waves, and ecstatic drunk moments.

And yeah, before I visited Cebu, the beach, the sea, and the ocean were no longer my top choices for mere travel. During those years, I would only visit them if I had other reasons, like reunions and other social events.

That all changed when I saw the fantastic, spectacular, and mesmerizing sardine run in Moalboal . 

It’s stunning. 

My eyes opened really wide the moment I saw the school of sardines forming different shapes, glowing as beams of sunlight entered the surface of the sea.

I also felt so fascinated when the sardines turned away and made way for the divers to pass through their shoal. Too bad I wasn’t able to smile in amusement as there was the snorkel plugged into my mouth. *LOL*

That time, I realized that I really had no idea how beautiful the seas were. It was a shame I did not know these wonders existed in our country for so long.

I promise you— you’ll enter a whole new world when you go underneath the surface of the sea . This is why Moalboal’s Sardine Run is an unmissable thing to do in South Cebu.

Have you been to the mountains and witnessed the sea of clouds?

If yes, you’d probably have the same feeling of amusement, the level of escapism, or the amount of unforgettableness in watching Moalboal’s Sardine Run.

Aside from the sardine run, you can also find turtles in Moalboal . I saw two turtles during our snorkeling activity. Indeed, they’re another extraordinary marine life that can give you awe as you snorkel or dive in Moalboal. 

If you like seeing the most colorful coral reef in your life together with cute little fishes, I suggest you get a boat tour to Pescador Island .

I was also impressed by the beauty of marine life on that island. 

7. Kawasan Falls (Canyoneering Adventure)

The sardine run in Moalboal definitely improved my perspective about different travel destinations.

Not only did I start to appreciate the sea more. But also, it was the time when I realized that although places may appear similar, there will always be a unique experience you can have from each. 

Frankly, some may even surprise you!

After that day, I promise myself to never underestimate my future destinations . I’ll be more open-minded.

I also decided to always bring a dose of curiosity whenever I travel. 

Why? Because it is an ingredient for excitement. Fulfilling your curiosity and learning something new is a way to have fun.

Indeed, traveling has many benefits. In Kawasan Falls and in the Canyoneering Adventure, you can have another: conquering fear and, of course, tremendous fun !

This is why the Canyoneering Adventure to Kawasan Falls is a totally an unmissable experience in South Cebu.

The fun begins in Barangay Sulsogan, Badian, all the way to Kawasan Falls—approximately 5 kilometers in between. 

Unlike the canyons and gorges in other touristy parts of the world, there are no metal or wooden pathways in the canyon in Badian. It’ll all be a pure adventure , and you will feel adrenaline flooding your bloodstream during your tour here.

Expect your entire body to move! You’ll scramble, slide, and swim in its turquoise waters. 

The most exciting part? It’s during jumping into the water from a cliff . 

How high are they? 50 feet (15 meters) ! Indeed, it’s absolutely dizzying. But, at the same time, jumping can feel so exhilarating !

Of course, it’s not all a 50-feet high jump. The canyon has three stages, and each stage ends with a jump (15, then 30, and then 50 feet) into the water.

My experience? Well, I totally conquered my fear of heights and fear of falling !

I can imagine how funny I looked a little before and during my first jump. I felt my knees shaking so bad! Haha! I was nervous that I would slip and make myself a big embarrassment. 

But, after my first jump, I no longer wanted to stop!

I no longer shake. And every jump, every splash, and every moment I was in mid-air felt so exhilarating !

It felt so damn good!

If you have energetic friends, I urge you to invite them to come with you to this canyoneering adventure . I’m one hundred percent; they’ll make your time in the canyon super fun! 

I was with my very enthusiastic friends during our canyoneering adventure. And one of them never missed screaming frantically before they jumped into the water. 

I was laughing all the time!

She made my day. It was one of the happiest moments of my life.

If you doubt you can’t do all these adventures (jumping off the cliff into the water), I’m telling you—you can! Because I thought I couldn’t do it too. My friends thought so too. But we made it! So, you can also do it as well. 🙂

So, that’s all! These are my 7 unmissable things to do in South Cebu. I hope you enjoyed reading this post!

I also hope I have helped you plan your trip to South Cebu. 🙂 Happy travels. Live life!

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Cebu Travel Blog: Table of Contents

Where, How? Cebu on C&C Best Time To Visit Cebu Personal Notes Where to Sleep Let’s Eat! Let’s Go For a Drink What to See and Do Tipping in Cebu Common Scams & What to Avoid C&C’s Google Map of the City

Cebu Travel Blog: Where, How?

Cebu City,  Cebu Island, Visayas, Philippines, Southeast Asia

Population:   922,611(2015 Census)

Currency:  Peso (Php)

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)

Airport Notes: The airport caters to both international and domestic flights. It is a more modern alternative to Manila’s packed Ninoy Aquino International  Airport with significantly faster and more efficient passport control and baggage handling. There are several direct flights to Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong and others to Japan, Qatar, Malaysia, Taiwan, and China. There also seasonal chartered flights to Russia, China, the United States, and other nations.

The airport has a wide range of facilities that include a shopping center, a duty-free shop, souvenir shops, cafés, business centers, food shops, communication facilities, banking facilities, car rentals, hotel and resort reservations, and beauty and health services.

Transportation to-and-from the airport:  The airport is on Mactan Island in Lapu-Lapu city. It will take about 40 minutes to 1 hour – or more depending on Cebu’s notorious traffic – to get to the actual city of Cebu by taxi.

You may ask in advance for a free van from your hotel to come and pick you up, which is the best option.

MyBus service is comfortable and gets passengers to and from the airport at a fixed and cheap rate. Travel like the locals by Jeepney if you don’t mind the heat and intense petrol fumes for a long period of time.

Intra-City Transportation

By Jeepney:

The most affordable way of transport is to get around the city on a local jeepney. The downside is that the only way of finding out the route is by either looking on the outside of the jeepney, or by asking someone. Also beware of pickpockets while taking the jeepney. Otherwise, this is a great 24 hour mode of transport around the city to suit your Cebu itinerary.

Taking a bus would be a safer choice if you are plying the north-south route.  Ceres Bus lines  is a reputable company with regular buses connecting the North and South Terminals.

Taxis can also be found everywhere in the city. As with everywhere else, make sure the driver uses a meter to avoid any scams.

A Note on Taxis:  

They’re ubiquitous, somewhat safe and very cheap. If possible, try and find a white taxi which has the price printed on the exterior. Always ask the driver to use the meter. Also avoid any private taxis that target tourists and charge more than usual.

Just like anywhere, Uber is cheaper and safer. If you don’t already have an account, use this link and get 15 dollars off your first ride!

Neighborhoods

Beverly Hills is an affluent gated community found north of the city. Other gated communities include Forbes Park , Dasmariñas Village , and Ayala Alabang . There are a couple of nightclubs and pubs found in Mango Square . Several consulates are located in Gorordo Avenue in Lahug . There are a number of restaurants around Ayala Center Cebu and the IT Park .

Navigation tips:

Cebu is built along the coast. The water is always southeast, but since the city’s main arteries are built along the coast, you might get the impression that the water is southward.

More About Cebu on C&C

• THE EXOTIC STREET FOOD OF THE PHILIPPINES
• VIDEO – FILIPINO STREET FOOD WITH CEDRIC LIZOTTE!

Best Time To Visit Cebu

Average monthly minimum and maximum temperatures.

Average Monthly Rainfall Or Snowfall

Cebu Travel Blog: Personal Notes

What’s this place about.

Cebu is the beautiful gateway to the Philippines.  Many people, especially travelers, will try to avoid the city of Manila and its traffic when coming in and out of the country. Cebu is much smaller and not as chaotic as Manila. It is a more welcoming place to use as a hub to get to your final destination. Cebu’s friendly population makes it a destination in and of itself.

What’s Great and Fun?

The street food of Cebu is underrated and tourists should enjoy its many delicacies.  Here is a video about it:

Cebu Travel Blog – Personal Anecdotes

I have met some of the nicest people in Cebu, many of whom have remained my friends. It is also one of the strongest Couchsurfing communities in the world.

Cebu Travel Blog: Where to Stay

Finding the best hotel in Cebu is not hard. There are plenty of options that are both cheap and excellent.

Are you looking for a super-social, super-cheap hostel/guesthouse? Check out Hey Fellas!

Shejoje Poshtel Hostel  is the only hostel I recommend in Cebu if you’re on a budget.

Best Western Plus Lex Cebu ,  Harolds Hotel  and  Hamersons Hotel  offer surprising value.

Of course, there are also the typical major chain hotels in Cebu such as Cebu City Marriott Hotel (PERMANENTLY CLOSED)  and  Cebu Parklane International Hotel .

Just like everywhere, Airbnb is a very interesting option. If you’re not already a  member, you can use this Airbnb link to get $40 off your first reservation.

Cebu Travel Blog: Let’s Eat!

Famous foods and specialties.

• Lechon (roasted suckling pig)
• Bam-i (stir-fried Cebuano noodle dish)
• Biko (yummy sticky rice cake)
• Lechon manok (rotisserie chicken stuffed with lemongrass)
• Sizzling pochero (beef joint/shank with pochero marrow)

The Best Drunk Food

• Sinugba (charcoal-grilled meats)
• Street-food abounds in Cebu and is amazingly cheap. You can buy all sorts of Philippine delicacies from the many street stalls scattered around Cebu City.

Our Suggestions – Dishes And Restaurants

There are a lot of nice restaurants all across the city, however somewhat few of them offer what can be called “Filipino food” per se. Most restaurants are located in malls and the experience there isn’t what I’d call “good”. This is why the number of restaurants listed here is small. This also means that it’s, in my view, a pretty extensive list!

One of the must-go’s is STK Ta Bay ! You should have the fish jaw dish!

Bordz  is a pub that turns into a bar later at night. I loved the pochero there. Plus, right behind the pub and in the back alley, there’s a great street burger joint!

One more very good restaurant that actually serves (mostly) Filipino classics: Golden Cowrie . It’s a chain, but it’s not bad!

There are a lot of good – and not-so-good – lechon places in Cebu City. My favourite is Frina’s Special Lechon . Check it out.

Other than that, there are many, many great street food stalls, including simple but delicious satays, everywhere in the city. Don’t be afraid to add it to your Cebu itinerary, it’s great!

Cebu Travel Blog: Let’s Go For a Drink

What do the locals drink.

Local beer, wine and cocktails.

Drinking in Public

In Cebu, you have to be 18 and above to drink legally. Locals are usually tolerant of drunk tourists. Regardless, remember stay aware of how much you’re drinking, especially since locals tend to invite people for drinks on the street. 

Our Suggestions – Bars and Pubs

• Many expats like to go to  Marshall’s Irish Pub  for good food, drinks, and live music.            Unfortunately, this restaurant has since closed its doors.
• You will be able to find majority of the nightlife at Mango Avenue  and  Mango Square – as well as some of the more rough and tumble facets of Cebu.
• I have to admit my total love for  Popeye’s Grill – I wouldn’t eat there, but the gritty outdoors bar offers everything and anything you can imagine – live music, karaoke, beer pong, pool… and cheap drinks!                                                                                                  Unfortunately, this restaurant has since closed its doors.
• As I mentioned in the restaurant section, Bordz is a cool spot late at night.

As regular readers of this column know, I don’t know anything about clubs. Sorry!

Cebu Travel Blog: What to See and Do

Here are some suggestions to add to your Cebu itinerary!

• Eating at the food court at shopping mall SM Cebu , the country’s second largest mall after Mall of Asia, is something to experience.
• Look at some nice graffiti walls as you stroll around the Chinese Cemetery Queen Gardens .
• Go to Minglanilla public market for your shopping needs as it is cheaper than the shopping malls.
• Visit Fort San Pedro , built to defend the locals from Spanish invasion and colonization.
• Right next to Fort San Pedro is Plaza Independencia , a square frequented by lovers and couples.
• The Malacanang of the South is a big white building built at the request of ex-president Gloria Arroyo to thank the people for voting for her.
• Magellan’s cross is where the Ferdinand Magellan put the cross when he introduced Christianity to Cebu.
• Santo Nino Church is said to be the oldest church in the country and where believers lit candles and prayed.
• The Cathedral and its museum with artefacts were like Santo Nino but for the wealthy.
• Colon Street is the shortest and oldest street in the city and is named after Christopher Colombus.
• Lapu-Lapu Monument in Mactan celebrates the hero who led the battle to defeat Magellan, resisting the Spanish colonization.

Tipping in Cebu

Just like in most of Asia, it is not expected to tip but it is as nice gesture. If you feel like you’ve received good service, you can tip 7-10% to the staff.

Cebu Travel Blog: Common Scams & What to Avoid

Common scams.

I haven’t personally experienced any scams, but you should be careful anywhere in the city because of the widespread poverty. Don’t flash expensive items around and keep your wits about yourself.

Alcohol is very cheap in the Philippines. Be careful to not get too drunk. I was traveling on a motorbike in Cebu around 5:00 am and turned on the wrong street. I noticed a crowd of people that did not appear to be friendly, so I left quickly. Knowing where you are at all times and having a good sense of orientation is important. Avoid dark alleys and stick to what you know, especially at night.

Pickpockets

I haven’t personally witnessed any pickpockets or crime.

Taxis are extremely cheap and safe. Make sure to use the meter.

How to Stay Safe: Tips and Tricks

READ MORE:  Travel Canada Advisory  for the Philippines.

Cebu Travel Blog: C&C’s Map

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31 Best Cebu Tourist Spots Guide 2024

Planning to go to Cebu and wondering what Cebu tourist spots you should visit? Surely, Cebu has many beautiful sites. And, you would want to go to all or choose from the BEST Cebu tourist attractions guide . Find out what and where these places are. Then, you may know how to get there as you read on.

What are the famous tourist spots in Cebu?

Table of contents, 1. cebu taoist temple, 2. temple of leah, 3. sirao flower garden, 4. 10,000 roses of cebu, 5. osmeña peak, 6. kawasan falls, 7. pescador island, 8. oslob whale sharks, 9. tumalog falls, 10. sumilon island sandbar, 11. simala church, 12. magellan’s cross, 13. basilica del sto. niño, 14. colon street, 15. the heritage of cebu monument, 16. yap sandiego ancestral house, 17. jesuit house of 1730 or museo de parian, 18. casa gorordo museum, 19. fort san pedro, 20. museo sugbo, 21. camotes island, 22. bantayan island, 23. cebu safari and adventure, 24. cebu ocean park, 25. anjo world theme park, 26. bojo river aloguinsan, 27. mantayupan falls, 28. dao falls, 29. malapascua island, 30. little kyoto, 31. carnaza island.

Check out the following places when you travel to Cebu with its top tourist spots:

Let’s start within the city area. First off, we have Cebu Taoist Temple in Beverly Hills Subdivision, Cebu City. The Chinese Taoism community built this Chinese style architecture temple in 1972.

This temple had become popular because of its artistic structures . Even non-believers of the Taoism religion pay visit to the place.

From there, you can see the striking view of the city and even the Mactan Island. And of course, for Taoists, this is the ideal place to pray or meditate.

Hence, we put it on top of Cebu tourist spots guide.

The next tourist attraction is the  Temple of Leah   which is along Cebu Transcentral highway. Teodorico Soriano Adarna built this temple in 2012.

The temple is a symbol of his undying love   for his wife of 53 years, Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. The temple has 24 chambers including a museum, an art gallery and a library.

Moreover, this place has Leah’s favorite and personal belongings.

In addition, Greek and Roman architectures are the inspiration of the temple. Statues of gigantic lions as well as a grand staircase with brass angels are decors of this Taj Mahal of Cebu.

Heading to the more elevated spot is in the Busay area which is the Sirao Flower Garden . Going there is like experiencing the Netherlands , thus this tourist attraction is commonly called, “The Little Amsterdam”.

The array of celosia (or ‘Burlas’ by locals ) flowers in flaring red, purple, yellow, orange makes it Amsterdam-ish. The put-up windmill and the cool wind complement the scenic view. Hence, this gives the guests the unique, touristy feel.

Moving to the nearby island of Mactan, you can visit the 10,000 Roses Cebu . This magnificent spot, which is in Day-as Barangay Rd, Cordova, Cebu, has gone viral on social media. 10,000 artificial LED-powered roses surround this certain Roses Café & More.

Most guests prefer to go there during dusk to see the beautiful sunset while the roses lit up at night. Moreover, the owner of the café, who is also an interior designer, intends to create a romantic ambiance for couples.

The café offers sumptuous food which you can savor while enjoying the wonderful mood with your lover.

Going south, you could climb the Osmeña Peak of Cebu in Mantalongon, Dalaguete (pronounced “Dalaget”). Standing at 1,013 meters above sea level , Osmeña Peak is the highest point in the entire island.  Lime stones that have sharp protruding peaks which are perfect for taking pictures make up these hills. 

The peak is part of the Mantalongon mountain range that stretches as far as the municipality of Badian. It is considered a twin to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills .

Further, the main activities here are hiking and camping . Most hikers prefer two hiking trails. The first one begins in Badian, passing by Kawasan Falls.

On the other hand, the other one is in the town of Dumanjug, which culminates in Brgy Liong. In addition, when you trek going to the top of the mountain, don’t forget to bring your water, it will help you re-hydrate.

Still in the south of Cebu is the breathtaking Kawasan Falls in Badian municipality.  Some hikers from Osmena Peak traverse to Kawasan Falls after camping, but you can just go directly to Kawasan via Barili. 

Kawasan Falls is a three-stage cascade of clear turquoise water from mountain springs of Mantalongon mountain range. The waterfalls is a pearl of the Philippines . One of the most popular tourist spots in Cebu south is Kawasan Canyoneering .  

T he canyoneering adventure starts at Canlaob river downstream going to Kawasan falls.  Local accredited guides accompany all tourists and facilitate the activities such as walking, jumping, swimming, climbing and abseiling through the streams.  Most of all, when you do canyoneering, be prepared to be thrilled.

Further, there is a wall covered with hard corals dropping down to about 40 meters (130 ft).  In that wall are tons of different species of colorful sea creatures , including sharks . Better to prepare your underwater camera to capture its beautiful corals and different marine species.

Another main tourist attraction that is getting popular in this location is the Sardine Run . You can swim with millions of Sardines (also known as Herring), which is totally amazing. Therefore, brace yourself to experience the magnificent beauty of the underwater.

Oslob Municipality is known for old churches and beautiful beaches but became more popular because of the gentle giants – the Whale Sharks .

Local fishermen would interact with the whale sharks by feeding them…until large number of tourists began to arrive in Oslob to see the whale sharks being fed. As a result, these tourists snorkel or dive with the whale sharks.

Oslob Whale Shark watching  is one of the top in the bucket lists of tourists who visit Cebu because of the rare experience. Most note worthy, when ever you have a close encounter with the Whale Sharks, it is not allowed to touch them.

Tumalog Falls is a curtain like waterfalls that covers the entire cliff with cool and clear water. Moss embraces the rocks of the cliff which filters the water and gives a curtain effect. It is one-of-a-kind and definitely stunning.

Hence, this has become one of many’s favorite Cebu tourist spots.

Bluewater Resorts owns the island; hence, spending the night in the island is not allowed unless you are checked-in at  Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort.

But not to worry, they provide day trip tours which include lunch and activities such as snorkeling, hiking, fishing, paddling and many more.

The design is inspired from European cathedrals .  Not only is the place magnificent in structure, but this also reveals a culture that is deeply seated among Cebuanos – the essence of Roman Catholicism. 

Monks who are devoted to the Virgin Mary reside in this church. Believers frequent the huge statue of the Virgin Mary since many consider it miraculous. Also, the multitude of Marys  dressed in various cultural themes interests visitors.

King of Spain Charles 1 chose navigator Ferdinand Magellan to look for the “Spice Islands.” In doing so, Magellan was able to cross the globe and eventually landed in the Philippines in 1521. Specifically, he made his step in Cebu on March 15, 1521.

Magellan presented Christianity to Cebuanos, and most of them embraced the religion. This site is where Magellan planted the Cross (which symbolizes Christianity) on April 21, 1521 and now is known as Magellan’s Cross . An encasement protects the original Magellan’s cross.

Just right beside the Magellan’s Cross is the oldest Christian church of the Philippines. Fray  Andrés de Urdaneta , O.S.A. and Fray Diego de Herrera, O.S.A. founded Basilica del Sto Niño in 1565.

Ferdinand Magellan’s “Sto Niño” which is the Holy Child Jesus statue is in this church. He had this Sto Niño when he converted Cebu’s chieftain Humabon and his wife to Christianity on April 14, 1521.

The See of Rome labels this church as the “”Mother and Head of all Churches in the Philippines”.

Basilica del Sto. Niño situates in Colon Street , the oldest street in the country.  Spanish colonizer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established the street in 1565. He named the street after Cristopher Columbus who was actually Cristobal Colon.

This place is near Cebu ports and is the hub for early commerce. As a result, first establishments of Cebu are in this street. At present, it is still the hotspot for businesses, theaters, pubs, shopping malls, etcetera.

If you wish to buy your “pasalubong”or souvenir, it is in these street where you find stores that sell cheap souvenir items. People commonly celebrate the popular Sinulog Festival in Colon Street.

Lies in Colon Street is the monument portraying Cebu’s major historic events. The Heritage of Cebu Monument is in Parian Plaza. Cebuano artist Eduardo Castrillo structured the monument using brass, concrete, steel and bronze.

The sculpting began in July 1997 and completed in December 2000. The features of the monument include Christian conversions, Spanish occupation, battle against foreign colonizer, a prominent Christian figure, and a certain Philippine president.

To know the specifics, it is best you visit this site which stands stall and strong at the heart of the city.

No need to go further, right across The Heritage of Cebu Monument is the Yap Sandiego Ancestral House . This ancestral house is one of the oldest houses in the Philippines. Built during Spanish era (between 1675-1700), coral stones and egg whites make the walls.

Molave, balayong and terracotta glue the roof together. Although this is built during Spanish occupation, the owner of the house, Don Juan Yap is a Chinese trader.

Therefore, the design of the house is a mix of Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino inspirations. Cebu’s native materials make up the furniture of the house.

Moreover, religious images are over the house which reflect the religiosity of the residents.

Image source Still in the same area, a walking distance from YapSandiego Ancestral House is the Jesuit House of 1730. It is also the “Museo de Parian”. The second highest ranking Jesuit priest in the Philippines used to reside in here.

Moreover, this house welcomed transient Jesuit missioners from various regions. Like Yap Sandiego, the coral stones and terracotta hold the house.

However, the place is real grand – the ceilings are high, the walls are high. This has become the meeting place of the early Cebuano elites.

To add, the house preserves some ceramics spotted during the Ming Dynasty.

Image Source From the Jesuit House, you just have to walk, and in about five minutes, you get to Casa Gorordo Museum . This house-turned-museum is where the first Cebuano bishop, Juan Gorordo, resided.

Originally built during the 1800s, a Spanish businessman Juan Isidro de Gorordo purchased the house. Due to Ramon Aboitiz Foundation’s Cultural Heritage Program, Casa Gorordo became a museum in 1980. The museum depicts Philippine culture between 1800s to 1900s.

About ten-minute walk from Casa Gorordo is the oldest fort in the Philippines-  Fort San Pedro . Spanish leader, General Miguel Lopez de Legazpi commanded the building of this fort. De Legazpi thought to use it against Muslim warriors.

However, as time passed by, other colonizers had used it for other reasons. When Americans occupied Cebu, their soldiers used this as their residence. Also, Americans educated Cebuanos in this fort.

Further, during the Japanese colonization,  Japanese also used the fort as a barrack, a prisoner and a hospital. The historicity of this smallest-oldest fort in the country is undeniable.

Four blocks from Fort San Pedro is Sugbu Museo. This is a large museum because it used to be Cebu’s provincial jail. The lone architect in Cebu at that time, Domingo de Escondrillas designed it in 1869.

During Spanish occupation, this served as prison for Filipino captives. However, during American period, Americans placed their horses here as stables for horse racing.  Also, during Japanese time, Japanese imprisoned Filipino opponents in this place. 

This becomes Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC) but CPDRC has relocated.  Thus, on August 5, 2008,  the place became a museum since it has rich role in Cebu’s history.

From the city, we go to the Northern part of Cebu where a magnificent Island lies – Camotes Island .

The travel time from Cebu city to Danao Port (which is where you ride on a boat toward the island) is about 1   hour. From Danao port, traveling by the sea takes two hours.

Camotes Island gives you numerous attractions to go to. In a day, you can go to a lake, to a cave, to an islet, and of course, to beaches. To maximize your time, it is best to be there for more than a day though.

Visit Santiago Beach which has a long, white shoreline; Mangodlong Rock which has picturesque blue and green waters; Lake Danao which has a serene green lake where you can use a kayak to land on the mini land in the center;

Bukilat Cave which you can swim in with its fresh cold waters; Tulang Diyot which is a paradise-like islet with its white sand and alluring waters.

Other equally great places are Timubo Cave, Holy Crystal Cave, Paraiso Cave, Buho Rock Beach Resort, Busay Falls, Bakhaw Beach. Again, Camotes Island is abounding in spots to go to…stay there for 3 days for best vacation experience.

As a matter of fact, it becomes popular in the country when a film was shot there. Many flock to enjoy the breathtaking beaches of Sta. Fe, Bantayan.

From Danao, you will travel 2 to 3 hours more to reach Hagnaya Port. This is the gateway for you to be transported to Bantayan Island via a ferry. The ferry travels one and a half hour.

With the affordable accommodation yet world-class scenery, you could never go wrong with Bantayan Island. You will enjoy the tranquility and the beautiful waves of its seas.

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is the largest zoo in the Philippines. And, it has Asia’s longest zipline – a whooping 1.2 kilometers! This zoo includes plant and animal species of various kinds, such as exotic tigers and birds.

Becoming at par with international zoos, Cebu Safari and Adventure Parks brings you to the amazing nature of Carmen mountains.

Since this is in Carmen, a northern part of Cebu which would take long hours from the city, it is best to travel as early as possible: opening is at 8 in the morning, but the last admission time is at 2:00 pm. The tour at the zoo takes at least 3 hours.

What is more interesting and unique about this spot is you can enjoy many thrilling activities: hiking and canyoning in the waterfalls, biking, swaying in the ziplines, and many more!

Cebu Ocean Park is the Philippines’ biggest oceanarium. Located just behind the large SM Seaside Mall and beside the wondrous San Pedro Calungsod Chapel, this is a perfect place for young kids as it is accessible to those who are near the city, and is surely educational and entertaining!

There are thousands of marine species settled in aquariums of varied shapes and sizes.  Fascinating-looking sea creatures are catchers to the tots’ curious minds.

In addition, this site is available every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 PM. Do not miss to explore this park with family!

Anjo World Theme Park is Visayas’ largest theme park and Cebu’s pride for its world-class designs and rides. It is situated in Minglanilla, roughly an hour from Cebu city.

True to its name, Anjo World has zones with themes based on the major continents of the world. It is like a quick tour to countries and cultures of the globe. 

This theme park is a mini-Disneyland – It has exciting rides and has a “snow world”. The best word to describe the experience here is “Fun”. 

During weekdays, this opens at 12 noon to 8:00 pm with a 450 pesos per person fee for unlimited rides. During weekends, Anjo World operates a longer time from 10 in the morning to 9 in the evening, at a 550 pesos fee per person. 

  Snow World is an attractive feature that visitors would only visit this section for 350 pesos. However, if you have already paid for the unlimited rides, you only need to add 200 pesos as pass in the Snow World.

This is definitely a worth-it destination for adventure and amusement!

Image Source

A captivating cruise experience in Bojo River. This magical and relaxing tour of a river ecosystem of unparalleled natural beauty in Cebu is voted one of the world’s most popular destinations.

Bojo River is located in Aloguinsan, Cebu. It is a place where you can enjoy nature, fishing, and canoeing.

Other outdoor activities include touring the riverbank and observing wildlife. With its beautiful scenery, this place is ideal for adventure lovers and environment-minded people.

The area has abundant natural resources, such as mangroves and other flora and fauna, giving it tranquility. Experience this beautiful tropical paradise.

The Mantayupan Waterfall is a spectacular sight and the most visited treasure of Barili, one of the municipalities of Cebu.

It is the highest waterfall and one of the most beautiful. It is surrounded by luscious trees and a wilderness of woods.

It is also known locally as the Ambakan, which means “to jump. ” If you like chasing waterfalls, Mantayupan Waterfall is worth a visit.

It’s in the middle of a jungle with a fair amount of water tumbling down the mountain.

After Kawasan Falls, this is the second most popular waterfall due to its reputation as the highest waterfall in Cebu.

The falls cascade down from a steep cliff and create a beautiful natural landscape set aside for public use.

Visitors can enjoy hiking through the lush forest or taking a relaxing swim at this peaceful spot.

This place is perfect for those who want to take a break from busy city life and enjoy nature at its best.

Despite its rising popularity, it exudes an untouched charm and offers a serene blend of adventure and relaxation.

The beautiful island of Malapascua is one of the most enchanting in the Philippines. In recent years, it has become a popular destination for travelers.

Photo from Arean Keith Cinematography Facebook Page

To touch Japan in Cebu, see Sachiko’s Little Kyoto. This unique garden sits on a hill and shows off the quiet beauty of Japanese style.

The garden is home to more than 50 kinds of pretty flowers. It also has traditional Japanese gates and important statues that evoke a sense of calm and happiness. This simple yet beautiful place allows visitors to enjoy a piece of Japan in Cebu.

Carnaza Island is an idyllic island paradise off Cebu–Daanbantayan’s northern coast.

When viewed from above, the island- about 173 hectares wide- is shaped like a turtle. It is surrounded by the vastness of the Visayan Sea on all sides.

  This is the perfect destination if you are looking for a unique adventure on a secluded island.

Finally…

Cebu tourist spots are mixture of historic sites, gorgeous beaches, and fun activities. This Cebu tourist spots guide is arranged by geographical location so you can go to several places in one trip.

Y ou may also check our Cebu City Tour package for hassle-free trip. There are still many places to visit in Cebu. So start packing your bags…and Travel Cebu !

Wait....There's more. We've made a video for this. So have a glimpse and watch it now!

Related blogs:.

Bantayan Island Guide

Cebu Day Tour

Tour Packages

Agree! 🙂 the CITY OF MANDAUE is one of the two highly urbanized cities in the region.

Hi Wilbert,

Thanks for your comment.

Best regards,

Just wish to say your travel blog is astounding. The clarity of your publication is simply excellent, and I could assume you’re knowledgeable on this subject. Anywayѕ, Ӏ’m ɗefinitely delighted. I fօund іt and I’ll ƅe book-marking for traveling to Cebu ɑnd checking bɑck often!

Hello there! We’re truly grateful for your wonderful feedback about our travel blog. It means a lot to us that you find our content clear and informative. It’s great to know that you consider us knowledgeable in this area. We’re excited that you’ve bookmarked our blog for your trip to Cebu. Don’t forget to check back for more updates, and we wish you an incredible journey! 😊

Hi may I know if open ang mga tourist destination during mahal na araw?

Yes, there are tourist spots that are open. But some are close.

For more info kindly email us at [email protected]

There we can update you with Cebu tourist spots.

so amazing and wonderful creation 💚🌲🌳🌴🎋🏡🗻

Hey Beverly! We really appreciate your kind words about our creation. It’s fantastic to hear that you find it amazing and wonderful. Our team works hard to provide the best content, and your support means a lot to us. Thanks for the encouragement, and stay tuned for more! 😊

Cebu Island is one of my favorite destinations in the Philippines. Cebu Island is so diverse, offering a mecca of adventurous things to do, including epic waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, swimming with whale sharks, island hopping, and much more. It’s a very interesting place to visit; you will not get bored of the things that you can see. It also offers unique food and their traditional cuisine, which is so worth trying. I encourage everyone to visit Cebu to experience what I experienced when I visited there. You could learn something that you can apply in your life while you are young. Start traveling and collecting because memories last a lifetime. When we get old, we could just go back to the time when we started to travel and the photos that were taken there.

Hello Hanna!

Thank you for your comment and for sharing your love for Cebu Island!

We’re happy to hear that you enjoyed exploring the diversity of Cebu, from the epic waterfalls to swimming with whale sharks and trying out our unique cuisine. Indeed, there’s never a dull moment in Cebu, and we’re glad you had a great time collecting unforgettable memories.

We couldn’t agree more that traveling is a wonderful way to learn and grow, and we encourage everyone to visit Cebu to experience the beauty and richness of our culture.

Thank you again for sharing your thoughts, and we hope to welcome you back soon!

Travel Cebu Team

Its been a great experience. Cebu is a beautiful place where everyone can enjoy and unwind.

Thank you for your comment and for sharing your wonderful experience in Cebu!

We’re happy to hear that you had a great time exploring the beauty of our city. Cebu truly is a paradise with something for everyone to enjoy and unwind.

We hope that your experience has left you with unforgettable memories and we would be more than happy to welcome you back for another amazing adventure in Cebu!

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need any assistance or recommendations for your next visit.

Very satisfying! Sooner or later i will go back!

Thank you for your comment and for sharing your positive experience with us!

We’re thrilled to hear that you had a satisfying visit to Cebu and we would be delighted to welcome you back anytime.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need any assistance or recommendations for your next visit to Cebu.

Cebu is well known as the best tourist destination in the Philippines. We can’t Deny the fact that Cebu has a lot of tourist spots that will bring you into paradise. A lot of my friends visited Cebu and they really recommend it as the best place to visit. I can see how enjoy they are to visit Cebu. I really wanted to visit Cebu’s tourist spots, explore more and experience different activities that they offer. For sure that I am going to enjoy here together with my family, friends and love ones because I also heard from my friend that the Agency provides the best tour package that will also provide the best tour guide who could help you and bring you into the best ever experienced in your life.

Hello C.J.M.M.,

Thank you for your comment and for sharing your interest in visiting Cebu!

We couldn’t agree more – Cebu truly is a paradise with a variety of stunning tourist spots to explore. And, we’re thrilled to hear that your friends had a fantastic time in Cebu and recommended it to you.

We take pride in providing the best tour packages that cater to your needs and preferences. Our professional tour guides are also committed to providing the best experiences and insights during your trip.

We can’t wait for you to visit and have an unforgettable experience in Cebu with your family, friends, and loved ones!

It might be romantic if I’ll invite her in Sirao Flower Garden in the morning and 10000 Roses of Cebu at night so that she will see the beautiful sunset as beautiful as her, right?

Thank you for your comment and for sharing your romantic idea with us!

It sounds like a lovely plan and we hope that it will be a special moment for you and your loved one.

Enjoy your time in Cebu and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any travel tips or recommendations.

Thank you very muchh for this blog. It helps me alot. Now i have a lot of plans.

Hi Shanley,

Thank you so much for your kind words!

We’re really glad that you’re enjoying our blog and finding it helpful. It’s our pleasure to share our love for Cebu with you.

We hope you have a fantastic vacation and enjoy all that Cebu has to offer.

Warmest regards,

I’ve never been so enthralled. I never expected this to help me so much, and as a someone who enjoys travelling, having fun, and taking photos, this information made it easy for me, and i hope it will also help other people who are planning a fun vacation.

Hey Krystal!

Thanks for the love and for checking out our blog!

We’re thrilled that you’re loving what you see, but we promise it gets even better in person! Book your trip to Cebu today and let us help you make your dream vacation a reality.

What a helpful blog.. Can’t wait to visit Cebu soon.

Hey Jialyn,

Thanks for the love!

Glad to hear that you’re enjoying our blog – but wait until you experience the magic of Cebu yourself!

Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime, book your trip now and let us help you create unforgettable memories.

Thanks for this blog super helpful for me since i don’t have any idea where to go if i travel to Cebu.

Hey Dangdang!

Thanks for the amazing comment!

We’re thrilled to hear that you’re loving our blog and we can’t wait for you to experience all the wonders that Cebu has to offer.

Enjoy your vacation to the fullest!

I’m glad I’ve read this very informative blogs. Now i have an idea where to go if i travel to Cebu. I hope i can visit soon

Hey there Cara,

Thanks a million for leaving us such a wonderful comment!

We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that you’re loving our blog – it makes all our hard work worthwhile!

And we’re even more excited to hear that you’re heading off to Cebu for your vacation. We’re sure you’re going to have an amazing time there and make some fantastic memories.

Thanks again for your kind words – they really put a smile on our faces!

Indeed a super helpful bog, can’t wait to experience Cebu soon🥰

Hi Leonard,

We are happy that you found our blog helpful.

Hope you will enjoy your vacation in Cebu.

If you have any inquiries about your Cebu tour package, please do let us know.

Best Regards,

Amazing blog, I hope I can visit Cebu soon.

Hello Gracee,

Grateful for your comment.

If you want to avail of our tour packages, please do let us know and we will give you a discount.

Hope to see you in Cebu.

how much is the tour package for 8 people we will be there from May 28 to June 1 this year. and any recommendation for the accommodation.

The tour package will depend on which tour you want to avail of.

Here are our tour packages that you can check –

– DAY TOUR: https://www.travelcebu.ph/cebu-day-tours/ – 2D1N, 3D2N, 4D3N – https://www.travelcebu.ph/tour-packages/

If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to let us know.

Best Regard, Travel Cebu Team

While reading all the destinations of Cebu, it really made me so excited to experience all of those things, and I really love how informative the blog is.

We are happy that you love our blog.

I hope you will enjoy your vacation in Cebu.

Wow! Cebu has so much to offer imagine they have an amazing sinulog festival plus their beaches hits different. How lucky people living cebu.

Hope you have a nice time in Cebu.

Please send us an email with your inquiries.

Or you may check these popular tour packages –

– Oslob Whale Shark – Cebu City Tour

Looking forward to guiding you to Cebu.

Come see the beauty of Cebu

Hi Emiliano,

Hope you are doing well.

I agree, Cebu is amazing.

Travel Cebu

Wow….sooner makikita din kita …loobin Sana ng PANGINOON DIOS….🙏

By God’s grace, you will be able to travel these places soon.

Hello, Pwede po ba mag customize ng destinations po?

Thanks for reaching out.

Yes, pwede po tayu mag customize.

Please send us an email – [email protected]

HOW MUCH FOR TOUR PACKAGE ?

Thanks for your inquiry.

Please send us an email or chat via this link – https://www.travelcebu.ph/contact/

Looking forward to guiding you to the best places in Cebu.

How much tour Packages ?

What tour packages do you want to avail yourself of?

You can contact us directly at [email protected]

There we can offer you the best tour packages that fit you.

nice tourist spots! thanks for this Cebu guide 🙂

Enjoy your trip to Cebu.

ask ko lang po kubg meron po kaya jan sa Cebu nag o offer ng Mactan Island hopping?

Thanks for your comment po.

Yes, we have mactan island hopping po.

Please contact us directly via [email protected] .

Hello Magkano po package for couple

Please contact us via email and we will give you the best tour package.

Here’s the link to our contact form – https://www.travelcebu.ph/contact/

Wow its more fun in Cebu, but theres a place i Argao, Cebu that can be considered also. the Argao Nature Park

Hi Charles,

Yes, there are a lot of places in Cebu that are not yet known to mainstream media.

Indeed it’s more fun in the Philippines.

CEBU IS THE BEST PLACE TO BE!

Yes, indeed, Cebu is the best.

Hi how much the 2D1N package?

Please check our 2D1N tour packages at this link -https://www.travelcebu.ph/tour-packages/2-days-1-night/

There, you can see all the details.

If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to send us an email.

Best Regars,

Our joy to provide you with quality content.

how much the package tours?

We sent you the details of our tour packages via email.

Kindly check.

Looking forward to ushering you to the best places in Cebu.

Hi hello the day tour for 2 person is hw much..?ilan po ang destination na mpuntahan sa isang araw.??salamat..?

Hi Karinna,

We will send you an email for your day tour details.

Hi Do you have any suggestion where could we go for local restaurants like street food of Cebu. In the Day tour do you pick up and drop off in the location where we check in. We are 8 people and 1 toddler.

Yes, we can guide you to one of Cebu’s famous street foods. You try, PUNGKO PUNGKO (local street food), which is located at Fuente Osmena, at the Back of Sampaguita Hotel. There you can try one of the best PUNGKO PUNGKO in Cebu.

For your day tour, yes, we offer free pick up and drop off to your place.

If you have further questions, please send us an email.

hi i just want to ask if you have tour package in nerisville selfie corner?

We will contact you via email with your tour details.

Hm the whole package…

We will send you an email for your tour packages.

Meanwhile, you can check our tour packages through this link – https://www.travelcebu.ph

I really amaze for this site. Useful.

We are so happy to hear that.

Hope you will have a good time in Cebu.

Good Day! Thank you so much Travel Cebu for making our trip memorable. We had a lot of fun during our 4d3n trip in Cebu. Thank you Mr. Jonel for driving us safely and to be patient to us. We really had a great fun eventhough the food wasn’t matched our tastes but it’s natural because we had different food tastes..we’re from kimchi country as you know. We had much fun at Sumilon Island Sandbar the water was clear. Bohol also was nice place..no traffic and chocolate hills view was amazing. The accomodation wasn’t bad. Lastly thank you for preparing the barbecue party in your place the whole group really appreciate the accomodation. Jonel thank you for driving and guiding us safely. You did a great Job! From :Hyeran & Company P.S. I would like to say thanks you to the whole office staff of Travel Cebu. Hope to see you again^~^

Thanks for your comment and review.

We really appreciate it.

Our joy and pleasure to have served you in Cebu and Bohol.

God bless you!

how much ang package?

Hi Anellie,

We will send you an email for our tour packages.

Saan po un may magagandang pasyalan sa cebu na makakalapit lang un my bahay na at my mlapit na restaurant na india food

We have a lot of Indian restaurants in Cebu.

I think in Jones avenue area, you can find house (airbnb type) or hotel that is near to Indian Restaurants.

If you have any further questions, we can assist and help you.

I am sure you will have an amazing vacation in Cebu.

Magkano tour packages

Hello Dhen,

We will send the tour package details to your email.

Meanwhile, you can check our tour packages here – tcebu.co

Hi TC, Planning to go to cebu for 3 days 2 nights for 2 pax only. Cheaper but decent place to stay. kindly send trip package. oslob and bantayn is my best interest. Can my bro rent a motorcycle where we can also see some places and for food trips?

We will send your tour details via email.

How much the pagkage??

Hi Lovelyn,

We will send you an email for your tour inquiry.

Looking forward to usher you to the best places in Cebu.

Hi Travel Cebu, I have future plan and interested to tour Cebu for 4 days and 3 nights or more. Please recommend a best accommodation and place to visit with an exciting to explore. Please let me know your tour package and for how many pax per bracket. Best regards

We sent your tour details to your email.

We are excited to guide you in Cebu.

Hello po. How much po kung i visit or i avail lahat ang 20 list ninyo sa cebu? 1 person lang po. Ilang days po ba ang dapat para ma visit po ang 20 list ninyo? Salamat

I think it will take 3-4 days to go to all of these tourist destinations.

Fore more details with your tour please contact us through email.

Awesome post.

I am sure you will enjoy your Cebu vacation.

Hi. We’re planning to visit Cebu this August 2019. 4d3n, for 2pax. Can you recommend an affordable package with lodge and Cebu tour on the mentioned tourist spot above. Thank you.

Yes, sure. We will send you an email for your tour details.

Meanwhile, you can check our 4D3N tour packages with this link – https://www.travelcebu.ph/tour-packages/4-days-3-nights/

Looking forward to guiding you to the best place in Cebu.

So many tourist spots in Cebu. that is sooo cool. we will definitely check these spots out! thanks for the info.

Yes, there are many wonderful places you can visit here in Cebu. If you need assistance for your tour here, you may contact us through our email.

it seems the ocean park is not included in your package tours. how much does it cost if we go there?

Thanks for reaching out and for your feedback.

We will update our blog an add new tourist spots.

For pricing, we can give you a customized tour.

We will contact you via email.

Hi, great day TC! We are planning to visit Cebu on April, 2019. Do you have some LODGE to offer for us to stay? We don’t want a hotel couz it is too much expensive. We want your offer the 4D3N package B but dont want to stay in a hotel. Can you refer another home to sleep? Thank you

Hello Edison,

We understand your concern. We can customize your accommodation for you. We will send you an email soon.

– Travel Cebu Team

Hello there,

My name is Aly and I would like to know if you would have any interest to have your website here at travelcebu.ph promoted as a resource on our blog alychidesign.com ?

We are in the midst of updating our broken link resources to include current and up to date resources for our readers. Our resource links are manually approved allowing us to mark a link as a do-follow link as well . If you may be interested please in being included as a resource on our blog, please let me know.

Thanks, Aly

Thank you for reaching out to us. We will contact you as soon as our team decides if our blog needs to be placed as resources on your blog site.

All the best,

Hi! Great day CT.

We are planning to visit Cebu on April, 2019. Do you have some affordable LODGE to offer for us to stay for 4 days and 3 nights? We want your tour package, 4D3N-Package B but we don’t want to stay in the HOTEL couz it too much expensive..

We understand your concern. We can customize your accommodation for you. Kindly check your email for our response.

– Travel Cebu Team

Wow thank you for this information! Hope to visit Cebu soon.

Hello Desain.

We are glad you find this website helpful. We wish to see you in Cebu!

Good day Travel Cebu,

heard many good things about Cebu. we will communicate with you soon as we are planning to go there…

We are happy you find Cebu as a place to visit. Hope to see you here soon!

What’s up, I check your blog like every week. Your writing style is awesome, keep up the good work!

Hello Sir/Ma’am,

Thanks for your wonderful feedback about our blog. We appreciate it.

Hi, May I ask about the travel packages you offer and a possible itinerary for 3 days. We are around 30pax and we hope that we can get a great package deal…. Thanks

Hello Myra,

We will send you an email asking for details about your tour (like when will you have your tour and the specific itineraries, etc.). Kindly check it.

I am interested in Cebu! Thanks a lot for this blog. I want to avail your tour packages as I plan to go there by April.

Hello Olivia,

We would be willing to assist you when you come to Cebu. You will surely enjoy it here.

Hi there, can you pick three most beautiful spots i can visit. i will shortly visit some places in Cebu since i am only there for a business trip.

Hello Asher,

you can have a city tour which would only take 3 to 4 hours. you can visit these sites which are found in the blog:

Magellan’s Cross Basilica del Sto. Niño Colon Street The Heritage of Cebu Monument Yap Sandiego Ancestral House Jesuit House of 1730 or Museo de Parian Casa Gorordo Museum Fort San Pedro Museo Sugbo

what beautiful places!!! i will go there soon!!!! thanks!!!!

Yes, Cebu has many beautiful places. We would be pleased to assist you with your tour in Cebu.

Hi, my name is Pam Weber. Planning to go there solo the end of February for 5 days. help me so i can have my best experience in Cebu, Philippines. it is my first time to be there. thanks

We would do our best to provide you the best experience while you are in Cebu. We will email you soon about your planned trip.

Take me to all the places, please. will contact you soon!!!!!

Hi Mikaela,

We would be happy to take you to all these Cebu tourist spots. We will send you an email on this.

good day. your article is nice. i want to avail a tour package so i can go to Cebu’s tourist spots. thanks for assisting.

Thanks for appreciating the article. We will send you an email regarding your inquiry on a tour package. We would be glad to help you.

Good evening,

what is better? Sumilon or bantayan Island? please reply.

Bantayan Island and Sumilon Island are equally beautiful. The difference would be that Bantayan is a 6-hour trip and Sumilon is a 3-hour trip (but is more expensive if you avail of their exclusive resort).

i want an adventure in Cebu. what are activities i need to experience there? it should be unique and could only be experienced in Cebu.

If you wish to have adventure, these are the activities you must be able to do here in Cebu:

1. Kawasan/Badian Cebu canyoneering 2. Oslob whale shark watching 3. Snorkeling in Pescador Island

we want to go to Sirao and Temple of Leah. i am so excited!!!!!

We hope to guide you when you go to Sirao and Temple of Leah. Have fun in Cebu!

hi, I am interested in the 4 days 3 nights package A. will go there with my workmates. we are 8. we would like to reserve for Feb 6 to 10.

Thank you for your interest in booking the 4D3N tour package with us. We will send you an email soon so you can reserve Feb 6 to 10 with us.

we will go to Cebu Jan 25 to 30. we are 10. please recommend best accommodation for us. also, we want to get a tour package.

We have sent you a message. We hope to see you already tomorrow.

what are 3 favorite spots i can go? i only have limited time and money, so please recommend me. thanks

If you have limited time, you can go to the South, and visit these three spots: Oslob whale sharks, Sumilon Island, and Simala Church. You can visit them all for just one day.

Hi, would you mind giving me the best deal for 4 persons to go there this March 3 to 6? we wish to get cheap price.

We will send you an email regarding your inquiry on the best deal for 4 persons for March 3 to 6. We will help you get the best deal.

hey there, i am ava. i want to avail of your 3 days 2 nights tour package. kindly email me for more information. will go to cebu this february.

Thanks for your interest in availing our 3 days and two nights tour package. We will send you an email regarding this.

We are group, 20 persons. kiindly tell us what to do so we can go to Cebu tourist spots. we are interested to come Cebu.

We will send you an email detailing how you can go to these Cebu Tourist spots. We are happy to guide you.

Hi I am from Korea. Please help me go to all of those places above. I will go Cebu. Thanks

Welcome to Cebu, Philippines. We would surely help you with your tour. We will send you an email soon.

Hi…. IS THERE A PLACE IN CEBU THAT MY 4 AND 7YR OLD KIDS CAN ENJOY? OTHER THAN MALLS…

Hello Ms Amvars,

yes, they can enjoy the beach in Sumilon Island and the flowers in Sirao Flower Garden. going to the top – like Cebu Taoist Temple and Temple of Leah would make them be amazed at structures and be interested in the purpose of the places.

Thanks for this beautiful blog. I wish to go to all places this March. I hope you can assist me.

Thanks for appreciating the blog. We hope to see you this March. And sure we would be very willing to assist you.

Hi. want to inquire if i can visit all places in 2 days. thanks

Yes, it is possible to visit all places in two days, if you start the tour early. We can help you with the best itinerary that suits your travel preference.

Good day Travel cebu

I would like to know if kasama po ba ang plane ticket sa tour package?

Hello Eunice,

Thanks for your inquiry. As of the moment, we only offer tour package in Cebu without the plane fare.

i had so much fun in Cebu when i visit ther wit my cuzins. thanks so much for this tourist spots guide.

We are glad you had fun in Cebu. If you are looking for help with tour, you can contact us.

This is a great site. I realize that Cebu has so many wondrous attractions. Keep up the good work!

Hi Charlotte,

Yes, indeed Cebu has many attractions you can go to. If you need any help going there, do not hesitate to contact us.

I would like to know your whale shark and canyoneering day tour package for 5 people?

Hi Maurice,

We will send you an email for the tour details.

I am sure you will enjoy this tour adventure.

Hi Travel Cebu,

Do you have a whale shark day tour package? How much does it cost for 3 people?

Yes we have a 1 day tour package for whale shark watching.

We will send you an email for the details.

Looking forward to ushering you to Cebu.

Hi travel cebu, how much is your city tour? we will be in cebu on january 2018

hope to hear from you

Hi Francis,

We will send you the details of our City Tour Package to your email.

Your blog is so timely and helpful.

Thanks for sharing this.

Hello Cheery,

Thanks for taking time to read our blog.

Our joy to hear that you find this content helpful.

We will continue to provide quality and relevant content.

God bless you.

hi, i am going to Cebu on Jan 1. Are you open on New Year? thanks

Hi Celeste,

If you book ahead of time, we can assist you with your tour.

We will send you an email for its details.

If you book now, we can accommodate your tour on Jan 1.

hello, what is the best beach to go to in cebu? please recommend

I think Bantayan Island is the best fit for that. Beaches there are awesome.

You can read our Bantayan Island Guide, so that you can make the most out of it.

Here’s the link to that blog – https://www.travelcebu.ph/bantayan-island-cebu-itinerary/

Hope that helps.

Best Wishes,

is it possible to visit all these tourist spots in two days.i will have a business trip in Cebu, will just do quick side trip. thanks

Yes, it’s possible.

We will send you an email for further details.

if we avail the tour package, does it include entrance fees already? thanks for the response

Yes, all our packages include all entrance fees.

However, you can customize it depending on your preferences.

We will send you an email for more details for your tour.

hello, is whaleshark watching still available in cebu?

Yes, it is still available.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send us an email and we will help you right away.

Best Regards, Travel Cebu

will be going to Cebu last week of January. request for quotation for 3 days.

Sure thing.

We will send you an email for your tour details.

Please give me best deal for 1 week tour package.

Yes, sure we can give you the best deal for your tour.

hey Travel Cebu,

wish to have your service when i go to cebu in march. great blog!

Thanks for reading our blog.

Our pleasure to share it with you.

For our tour services, we will send you an email for more details.

thanks for your informative article. want to go to these tourist attractions soon. by Jan 5 to 7 next year. hope you can assist us.

I am sure you will enjoy Cebu.

Sure, we can help you with your tour.

We will send you an email for more details.

Hi, I’d like to avail the best seller itinerary for five days…Thanks.

Hi Douglas,

I am sure you will your Cebu trip.

What would be the best itinerary for city tour? Please choose 10 sites for us…from 8 am to 8pm…

We will send you an email for more details of this tour.

Just asking if you can accommodate us, 9 people, with 2 kids and 1 senior citizen for 3 days and 2 nights…this dec 19.

Yes, sure we can help you with your tour.

We can give you the best deal.

Good day po.

Inquire po sana ako, city tour package on January 8, 2019. 10 po kami. hope you can help us with our tour.

Here are the details of our Cebu City Tour Package –

City Tour Packages

?? City Tour Package

✔Inclusions:

– Entrance Fees – Hotel Transfer – Private Tour – Driver – Fuel

– Pick up at Cebu City – Museo Sugbo – The Heritage of Cebu Monument – Yap San Diego Ancestral House – Magellan’s Cross – Basilica Del Sto. Nino – Sirao Flower Farm – Temple of Leah – Taoist Temple – Drop off

?Price –

1 person – P 4,390 per person 2 persons – P 2,390 per person 3 persons – P 1,990 per person 4 persons – P 1,690 per person 5 persons – P 1,590 per person 6 persons – P 1,490 per person 7 persons – P 1,390 per person 8 persons – P 1,290 per person 9 persons – P 1,190 per person 10 persons – P 1,090 per person 11 persons – P 990 per person 12 persons – P 890 per person

Add-ons: 10,000 roses – additional 1,500 for the whole group (not per person)

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Hi Travel Cebu. I like this deal than you send me an email a different deal. Please email me at [email protected]

We already sent you an email. Please check it.

Looking forward to touring you around in Cebu.

Hello Travel Cebu,

Nice blog. My family and I would be spending Christmas Season in Cebu this year. We would like to visit all these tourist spots on Dec. 24 to Dec. 26. We are five, from Switzerland.

Thanks for reaching out and liking our blog

Spending your holiday in Cebu would be awesome.

You can visit these tourist spots with out tour packages.

Hey! This is so helpful. We are visiting Cebu next week.

Hope we will be able to experience all these wonderful tourist spots in Cebu.

Thanks for this.

We are so happy that you find this helpful.

I am sure you will enjoy your vacation in Cebu.

Our pleasure to share this content to everyone.

Thank you for sharing this information. This will for sure helpful for people who want to visit places in Cebu. I had great experience my self. I rented a scooter in Cebu city and visit some of the places that you have mentioned.

The scooter rental cost me 390 pesos a day.It was a great experience. I had so much fun..

We are glad to hear that you are enjoying your travel in Cebu and find our blog helpful.

Yes renting a scooter anywhere in the Philippines is fun though, especially when you are in Cebu.

Hope you will visit Cebu again, and bring your friends.

Hi travel cebu,

Do you have a City Tour Package for 1 day? We are planning to visit Cebu Next week.

Hope you can update me.

Here’s our City Tour package –

?? City with Mountain Tour Package

For bookings please send us an email.

How much is a tour for a day?3 adults and 2 kids(9 yrs old and 3 yrs old)

We will send you a message for the details of this tour.

Looking forward to serving you in Cebu.

Great content.

This is so timely because we are going to visit Cebu On January 29, 2019.

May I know the details of your tour?

Hello Oscar,

Thanks for reading our content.

We are happy that you share with you the best of Cebu.

We will send you an email for your tour package.

Looking forward to guiding you to the best tourist spots in Cebu.

I am sure you will enjoy it.

Helpful article!

Excited to visit Cebu soon.

Hi Donahee,

Glad that you find our blog helpful.

Our pleasure to share it to you.

Nice article.

By the way, my team and I would like to try the canyoneering, do you have any idea how much would it cost for this package?

Hello Dariuster,

We will send you an email for your canyoneering tour package.

Meanwhile, you can check the prices through this link –

https://www.travelcebu.ph/cebu-day-tours/cebu-canyoneering-kawasan-falls/

Looking forward to usher you to Cebu.

Hi po good pm Pila inyo package sa 3dand 2n we are only 2 person

Hi Dannylene,

We will send you the details of your tour through your email.

Looking forward to guiding you to the beautiful places in Cebu.

May I know how much does it cost for Whale Shark Watching package?

Hope to hear from you.

Hi Dariuster,

Here’s the quotation for that package –

?? Oslob Whale Shark Encounter

– Entrance Fees – Breakfast – Lunch – Hotel Transfer – Private Tour – Boat – Life Vest – Snorkel

4:00 AM – Pick up at Cebu City/Travel to Oslob 7:00 AM – Whale Shark Watching 8:00 AM – Breakfast 9:00 AM – Travel to Tumalog falls(optional) 9:30 AM – Tumalog falls(optional) 12:00 PM – Lunch 1:00 PM – Travel back to Cebu City 4:00 PM – Drop off

1 person – P 6,590 per person 2 persons – P 4,190 per person 3 persons – P 3,790 per person 4 persons – P 3,190 per person 5 persons – P 2,990 per person 6 persons – P 2,890 per person 7 persons – P 2,790 per person 8 persons – P 2,690 per person 9 persons – P 2,590 per person 10 persons – P 2,490 per person 11 persons – P 2,390 per person 12 persons – P 2,290 per person

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will assist you right away.

We are group of 5, how much is your package for 3D2N?

Thanks for your comment and reading our blog.

Here’s the sample quotation for our 3D2N tour package –

3 Days and 2 Nights Tour Packages

– All Entrance Fees – Breakfast on Day 2 & Day 3 – Lunch on Day 2 – Hotel Transfer – Private Tour – Boat – Life Vest – Snorkel – 2 Nights Hotel Accommodation

?ITINERARY:

– Pick up – Museo Sugbo – The Heritage of Cebu Monument – Yap San Diego Ancestral House – Magellan’s Cross – Basilica Del Sto. Nino – Sirao Flower Farm – Temple of Leah – Taoist Temple – Overnight at Cebu City

✅Day 2: SOUTH TOUR

– Oslob Whale Shark Watching – Tumalog Falls – Travel back to Cebu City – Overnight at Cebu City

✅Day 3: FREE TIME/AIRPORT TRANSFER

– Free Time – Pasalubong Center – Airport Drop off

5 persons – P 6,490 per person

Note: Additional 500 pesos each for Foreigners

We will send you the details through email.

How muxh?how much package

We will email you the details of your tour package.

Looking forward to guiding you to Cebu’s best tourist destinations.

Awesome blog!

Thanks for sharing this. This is really timely because we are going to Cebu this coming November 30.

Canyoneering and Pescador island are our top destinations to go.

By the way, how long will canyoneering adventure will take and also pescador island (swimming with turtles and sardines?

That’s Cool! Happy to hear that you find our blog useful and timely.

Our pleasure to provide you helpful content. Thanks for reading though.

Canyoneeing activity will take around 3-4 hours, depending on how fast you jump each for cliff. hehe.

For pescador island, it will take 3-4 hours, I think.

I am sure you will enjoy these activities.

Just one tip, bring your own dry bag.

If you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will assist you right away.

Grateful for your blog. We will be in Cebu on January.

Hope you can give us a great tour package deal.

Our pleasure to provide you helpful article.

For your tour packages, we will send you an email.

I am sure you will enjoy your tour in Cebu.

How long does it take to go to Kawasan falls from Cebu City, by riding a bus?

It will take around 3-4 hours by bus.

Just make sure you go to South Bus terminal, and ride a bus that will go to Badian, Matutinao.

Ask the bus driver to drop you off at the Church of Matutinao, going to Kawasan Falls.

If you want to have a hassle-free tour going to Kawasan, we offer the best package the fits your needs.

Just let us know through email, or you may contact us through our phone number indicated in this website.

Or If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us and we will help you right away.

Your blog is pretty helpful.

We will be spending our Christmas vacation there in Cebu.

Keep up the good works!

Happy to hear that.

I am sure you will enjoy your Cebu trip.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to let us know, and we will assist you right away.

Enjoyed reading your article!

How much does it cost for 8 people on Whale Shark Watching?

Hope to hear from you soon.

Glad that you enjoyed reading our blog.

Regarding the price for Whale Shark Watching, we will send you an email for all the details.

Hi kindly send me Cebu tour package good for 2 persons. Thank you

I will send your tour details through email.

Nice blog. We are planning to spend our vacation in Cebu this coming December 20-24,2018.

How much is your tour package?

Hi Vlademer,

I wan to experience Canyoneering Adventure.

How much does it cost for 4 people?

Where are planning to do it on November 28,2018.

Glad to hear that.

Yes, canyoneering is an extreme and fun adventure, so you need to prepare for that 🙂

We will send you the quotation for your tour through your email.

Looking forward to usher you to Cebu’s best adventure.

That is an interesting travel guide.

Hi Gregory,

Thanks for your comment. Really appreciate it.

This is so helpful.

Looking forward to visit Cebu soon.

We are happy that you find this article helpful.

Best wishes,

Hi we are a family of 4 (daughters age 15 and 17)..planning to visit cebu from nov. 1-4….ETA on nov.1 via mactan cebu intl airport is 10:40 a.m. and ETD on nov. 4 is 2pm… can u pls. Send me a sample itinerary of your cebu tour package…thank u!!!

Hi Demelyn,

Hi We are planning to travel in cebu this coming May how much 2 adults and 2child

Please send us an email for more details of your tour.

Or you can check out Cebu City Tour Packages .

Great article.

We are planning to visit Cebu on January.

Hope to visit all this tourist destination.

Thanks for checking out our article.

I am sure you will have a great time in Cebu.

We are planning to spend our vacation on March 2019.

Our tour package will depend on the tour you will avail.

hi! we have friends would like to explore south spots. how much is the entrance fee each spot?

Here’s the entrance fee for south tour adventure –

1. Oslob Whale Shark Watching – 500 for local, and 1,000 for foreigners. 2. Tumalog falls – 20-30 pesos each and for motorcycle, I think 120 pesos each. 3. Sumilon Island – 50 pesos each for the island, for boat to go there, will depend on the number of persons 4. Moal Boal Pescador Island – 100 pesos each, for boat to go there, will depend on the number of persons 5. Canyoneering – 1,500 each, including gears and meal (kawasan falls is free is you do the canyoneering activity) 6. Kawasan – For kawasan falls only, it’s 45 pesos each. 7. Osmena Peak – 30 pesos each

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to comment or send us a message at [email protected] , and we will assist you.

Hi how much the package gor 4 persons

We will contact you through email.

Hi. I like your blog.

Do you offer Canyoneering adventure?

Please check this link for our Canyoneering Adventure

Hi, We are planning to go to Cebu in mid-December, can we choose the places we want to go as a package for 4D3N or 7D6N for 2 people.

We will contact you as soon as possible through email.

Or you may also send your details to this email – [email protected]

Hi, how much is the package for 4 persons , 3 days and 2 nights. Can you email me the packages.thank you.

I sent you an email.

Please check it.

By the way, you can also check with this link for our 3D2N Tour packages – https://www.travelcebu.ph/tour-packages/3-days-2-nights/

HI, WE PLAN TO VISIT CEBU THIS MONTH 5 ADULT, 1 2YR OLD AND 1 WITH DISABILITY (WHEEL CHAIR BOUND 12YO BOY). WE OP FOR A LAND BASE AND SUITABLE TOURIST SPOTS ONLY. OUR TENTATIVE SCHEDULE IS SEPTEMBER 20-22. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST US? SLOW AND EASY TYPE LANG HA.. BECAUSE MY SON EASILY GET TIRED… THANKS

We sent you an email for your inquiry.

Looking forward to serve you in Cebu.

How much the package?

Hi Verinica,

Package will depend on your tour.

Please check our homepage for more info through this link – https://www.travelcebu.ph

You may check our tour packages through this link – https://www.travelcebu.ph

Hi, will be there in Cebu by jan 18 to 23. Attending sinulog from 19-20. Then 21-23 have no plans yet. Can we have a tour package to include the 20 tourist spots mentioned with Cebu Safari.

Thanks for your comment. We will send you email for more details.

For the moment you may check our Cebu tour packages through this link – https://www.travelcebu.ph

Are u going to get us in our hotel,tsai hotel for packaged tour for 2 person and brung us back also to the hotel after the tour. We are planning to joint the packaged tour with additional 10000 flowers. How much?

Yes, pick up and drop off at your hotel are included in the package.

For more details, you can send us an email.

Or you can check our Cebu City Tour package.

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Experience A Hassle-Free Tour Package

Top 20 Cebu Tourist Spots & Things to Do: Canyoneering, Whale Shark Watching, Diving & More

1. Experience Canyoneering to Kawasan Falls

2. explore the beaches of bantayan island, 3. witness the grandeur of the temple of leah, 4. discover the vibrant marine biodiversity on sumilon island.

• 5. Try Water Adventures in Camotes Island

6. Dive and See Thresher Sharks in Malapascua

7. smell the flowers at sirao garden.

• 8. Learn About Catholicism in the Philippines at Magellan’s Cross
• 9. Take a Leisurely Hike to Osmeña Peak

10. Go on a Pilgrimage to Simala Shrine

11. climb the 81 steps of the cebu taoist temple, 12. go on a lechon food trip, 13. marvel at the sardine run in moalboal.

• 14. Explore Carnaza Island

15. Check out Spanish Artifacts at Fort San Pedro

• 16. Join a Birdwatching Tour in Olango Island

17. Taste the Best Cebuano Street Food at Larsian

18. learn about the history of cebu at museo sugbo, 19. admire the exhibits at the yap-sandiego ancestral house, 20. go island-hopping in mactan.

Discover the province of Cebu, called the Gateway to a Thousand Journeys because of the multitude of fun and exciting Cebu tours and activities that you can experience here! Find out the prime Cebu tourist attractions and unique things to do so that you can try to make the most out of your holiday.

Home to nearly 170 islands, Cebu lives up to its moniker as "The Gateway to a Thousand Journeys." There isn't a shortage of explorations and activities to do in Cebu, not to mention good Filipino food to sate your cravings in between, easily making it one of the best tourist spots in the Philippines .

You'll also find it easy to discover the perfect Cebu hotels  for your trip, as it is home to some of the most beautiful beach resorts in the Philippines .

See our popular Cebu Tours and Activities

Private cebu airport to or from any cebu city hotel transfer service, 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.

History aficionados can revel in Spanish-era edifices just minutes from the Cebu Airport , while beach and sea lovers get access to beautiful Cebu beaches  and scuba diving spots whether their base is in the capital or the extreme north or south.

You won't run out of tours and activities to try in Cebu , and because of its location, accessibility, and airport that services international and domestic flights, including Manila 's Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Baguio 's reopened Loakan Airport , you can also easily other destinations in the Philippines.

If your visit falls in January, you can also take part in the fun and colorful  Sinulog Festival , one of the most popular Philippine festivals . 

Get started with planning your Cebu trip . Here's a rundown of   activities you can try and places you can visit during your trip:

The most famous attraction in Badian is Kawasan Falls , a three-tiered cascade that features distinctly turquoise water. It is also one of the most famous waterfalls in the Philippines .

There are two ways to explore the falls. One is by choosing from the various  canyoneering tours  and having a journey for three to six hours from Alegria to Badian, and the other is by a short trek to the waterfalls.

A  canyoneering tour to Kawasan Falls is an exhilarating water adventure that takes you through towering gorges and stalactite boulders. You get to swim and rappel through the river canyons and even jump off 30-foot-high cliffs into blue pools.

• Explore other activities in Cebu

The final leg is the third and top tier of Kawasan Falls, also known as Kabukalan Spring, from where the water flows. Canyoneering is one of the best rainy season activities in the Philippines but it can be enjoyed all year round. 

See our popular Kawasan Falls Tours

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. 

You can also opt to book a Kawasan Falls canyoneering tour that includes swimming with whale sharks in Oslob to make the most of your trip in Cebu. 

Bantayan Island is a small island off the coast of northern Cebu. Don’t be fooled by this sleepy fishing village, the beaches of this humble island exude the same charm and beauty as the famous Boracay Island.

The best part is, Bantayan Island is not as commercialized and crowded as Boracay. If you want a relaxing vacation by the beach and witness one of the most beautiful sunsets, Bantayan Island won’t disappoint you.

Bantayan Island is blessed with several sprawling white-sand beaches and calm azure waters. Most of the beaches in Bantayan Island are within resorts or owned privately, but they are accessible to the public for a small fee. They are some of the best tourist spots on Bantayan Island .

• Book Siargao to Cebu Philippine tour packages

Bantayan Island's Kota Beach is one of the best beaches in the Philippines . It features a sandbar and a lagoon that makes a perfect spot for wading in and sunbathing. Paradise Beach, on the other hand, is a serene stretch of white sand beach that features beautiful rock formations. 

Bantayan Island also boasts two natural cave pools, the Ogtong Cave and the Sto. Niño Cave. A natural cold spring feeds both caves, so you can expect chilly water that's great for cooling off after a morning of beach-hopping.

Hailed as the Taj Mahal of Cebu, the Temple of Leah has become one of the most famous landmarks in Cebu. This magnificent building is a sight to behold and a favorite spot for taking Instagram-worthy shots. 

If you’re up for a  Cebu hillside tour , the Temple of Leah is an excellent place to start. Located in the hills of Busay in Cebu City, the Temple of Leah is a towering seven-story building inspired by ancient Roman architecture.

Said to have cost over PHP 80 Million, this grand structure boasts granite floors, Doric columns, a marble fountain, and several Grecian-style statues. 

However, its most photographed features are the two golden lions by the main stairs and the nine-foot bronze statue of Leah V. Albino-Adarna, for whom the temple was built. Similar to the Taj Mahal of India, the Temple of Leah was constructed as a symbol of the undying love of Teodorico Soriano Adarna for his late wife, Leah.

However, unlike the Taj Mahal, the Temple of Leah is not a tomb. The 24 chambers of the Temple of Leah house the namesake's massive collection of antiques, art, Chinese jars, and books. The temple is open to the public, so be sure to stop by and be entranced by this grand gesture of love. 

See our popular Temple of Leah Tours

Sumilon Island is inarguably one of the most popular tourist spots in Cebu . Sumilon Island’s most prominent feature is its immaculate sandbar that changes shape every season.

The water surrounding the island is something to behold as well; the varying shades of blue and the clarity of the water will entice you to jump right in.

This 24-hectare island is situated on the southern tip of Cebu Island. It is privately owned by a resort, but it is open to the public for a minimal entrance fee. If you want to stay overnight, you can book a  2-day Bluewater Sumilon Cebu glamping package .

Sumilon Island is also a marine protected area and is home to Philippine diving spots teeming with blacktip sharks, colorful fishes, and sprawling coral gardens. You have the choice of frolicking by the sandbar or going snorkeling to marvel at the vibrant underwater scenery of Sumilon. 

Aside from its gorgeous waters, the island also has mangroves that are home to various bird species. Flanking the beach are hectares-wide forests where you can go for a leisurely hike. You will also find a natural lake and a gorgeous cliff on either tip of the island.  

See our popular Sumilon Island Tours

Cebu oslob whale shark watching, sumilon sandbar & tumalog falls private tour with lunch & transfers, cebu oslob whale shark watching, sumilon sandbar, tumalog falls tour with lunch & transfers, south cebu oslob whale shark watching, sardine run & sumilon island private tour with transfers, 5. try water adventures in camotes island .

Camotes Island in Northern Cebu offers a multitude of outdoor activities for thrill-seekers. Among the most popular ones is spelunking Camotes Island’s Holy Crystal Cave. 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. Well-preserved stalactites and stalagmites can be found 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, locally known as the Lover's Lake. Fascinatingly, the lake forms the number eight. At 700 hectares, it is the biggest in the Visayas Region. Because of its sheer expanse, Lake Danao is an excellent spot for kayaking. You can also go on a sunset cruise through the lake.

It's a great relaxing activity for groups and couples. Lake Danao also prides itself on its cleanliness.  You can find several free-swimming ducks and tilapia in the lake.

To complete your exciting Camotes Island adventure, go cliff diving at Buho Rock. The ship-like rock formations of this infamous cliff make for an exhilarating jump-off point. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can leap off from as high as 30 feet. On the other hand, first-timers can go for the 10-foot cliff, a friendlier option that will still give you that adrenaline rush.

The island is famous among locals and international tourists, especially among divers, because it is the only place in the whole world where you can  dive with thresher sharks daily. 

A typical day of diving in Malapascua involves thresher sharks, hammerhead sharks, blue ring octopus, and manta ray sightings. But if you’re not too keen on diving, don’t worry! Malapascua’s tourist spots aren’t all underwater. 

• See our other  Cebu diving packages

The island’s idyllic beaches are every beach lover’s dream. Indeed, apart from its breathtaking underwater scenery, Malapascua’s white sand beaches are its other best features. 

The best part is that the beaches in Malapascua are less commercialized than the more popular ones in the Philippines, such as Alona Beach in  Bohol and  Boracay in Aklan.

It has a relaxing and friendly beach vibe that makes the island even more inviting. There’s also a lighthouse you can hike to for a panoramic view of the entire island. 

See our popular Malapascua Tours & Activities

Another excellent Instagram-worthy spot in Cebu’s hillside is Sirao Garden. Dubbed the “Little Amsterdam” of Cebu, this picturesque flower farm is located in the highlands of Busay.

The colorful blooms of Sirao Garden will surely make you want to whip out your camera and take thousands of photos. You can find rows of sunflowers, hyacinths, chrysanthemums, daisies, and asters in Sirao Garden. The main attraction, though, is the vibrant and multicolored celosia flowers.

Also known as wool flowers or cockscomb, the celosia flowers that were first planted in Sirao Garden were initially meant to be harvested and sold during All Souls Day. But thanks to a fortunate turn of events, the celosias were never harvested, and instead, the farm was turned into a park. 

The flower farm first attracted locals who wanted to take photos with the beautiful blooms. But soon enough, the word spread, and hoards of travelers began flocking to the spot.

Now, Sirao Garden not only has rows of colorful flora, but it also features replicas of Dutch windmills, as well as a viewing deck.

See our popular Sirao Garden Tours

Cebu panoramic views tour to temple of leah, sirao garden, west 35 mountain resort with transfers, cebu highlands vista shared tour with transfers, cebu city & highlands shared tour with lunch & transfers, 8. learn about catholicism in the philippines at magellan’s cross.

If you’re planning to  visit historic Cebu spots , Magellan’s Cross is an excellent place to start. The province of Cebu has a rich history, and it has witnessed several monumental events. One such event is the birth of Catholicism in the Philippines, marked by Magellan’s planting of a cross on the island. 

The Portuguese explorer Magellan is attributed with bringing Catholicism to the Philippine Archipelago. History books tell the story of how Magellan reached Cebu in 1521, planted a crucifix, and successfully converted the natives to Christianity. The city of Cebu soon grew around that historical site. 

Magellan's Cross is housed in a Spanish-style octagonal pavilion in front of the Cebu City Hall. The large wooden cross displayed in the pavilion is made of Tingalo Wood and is said to be encasing the original cross inside of it.

The unique crucifix was seen as a miraculous relic, so natives started chipping away pieces as a souvenir. To protect the cross, the 10-feet replica was built to encase it. Today, the replica stands atop a marble podium with a plaque that states that this was the very site where the original crucifix was planted on April 21, 1521.

See our popular Magellan's Cross Tours

9. take a leisurely hike to osmeña peak.

Standing at 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña Peak is Cebu’s highest. The peak is one of several spire-like formations comprising the Mantalongon Mountain Range in Dalaguete. The town of Dalaguete is known as the “Vegetable Basket of Cebu” because of the crops it supplies to the whole province. En route the peak during your Osmeña Peak trek, you will pass by several vegetable farms and see livestock grazing the terrain. 

The picturesque trail to Osmeña Peak is an easy leisurely hike that takes about 30 minutes to an hour. Once you reach the top of Osmeña Peak, you will be greeted by a stunning jagged skyline, a panoramic view of Cebu’s southeast coastline, and a glimpse of Negros. It can be windy at the peak, so take care not to lose your footing.

The craggy rock formations and the breathtaking vista of South Cebu and distant Negros Oriental at the summit will surely make the trek to the top worth it.

Mantalongon, Dalagutes is also dubbed as the “Summer Capital of Cebu” due to its chilly climate. Many local travelers from the lowland cities come to the scenic Osmeña Peak to escape the summer heat. You may want to bring a light jacket if you’ll be hiking early in the morning, as it can get cold during this time.

Nestled in the hills of Simala, Sibonga in Cebu is the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, popularly known as the Simala Shrine and Cebu’s Castle Church. As the name title implies, the sprawling religious complex looks like a castle by the hillside. 

Simala Shrine first rose to popularity when the word spread about the miraculous Virgin Mary statue it houses. Several Catholic and Marian Devotees flocked to Simala to pay their respects and pray for miracles and the Virgin’s intercession.

As its fame increased, the church began a series of renovations that transformed its once humble chapel into a grand castle-like shrine. 

Today, Simala Shrine attracts foreign and local travelers. There is a testimonial hall wherein stories of devotees’ answered prayers are posted. You will also find a “Dagkutanan” (a candle-lighting area), where you can light multicolored candles and say a prayer.

If you don’t mind long queues, you can see and kiss the miraculous Virgin Mary statue up close. 

Whether you are a devout Catholic or you want to admire the scenery and see Cebu's Castle Church, you are welcome at Simala Shrine. Just observe silence and be respectful while you are on the premises.

Additionally, the shrine has a strict dress code. When you visit Simala Church, don't wear shorts, skirts, crop tops, or any body-hugging and revealing garments. You can join a historical excursion in Cebu with a stop at Simala Shrine if you want to visit other tourist spots as well.

See our popular Pilgrimage Tours

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The Cebu Taoist Temple is one of the famous landmarks in Cebu City. Built in 1972 by Cebu's Chinese community, the Taoist Temple is a colorful and multi-tiered complex located inside the Beverly Hills Subdivision. The temple has an elevation of 110 feet above sea level and features a facade that is inspired by the Great Wall of China. 

The Cebu Taoist Temple is the center of worship for the followers of the ancient teachings of the Chinese Philosopher Lao Zi.

Devotees visit the temple to light joss sticks, have the monks read their fortune, perform rituals, and pray for the gods to grant their wishes. Unlike the neighboring Phu Sian Temple, the Cebu Taoist Temple is open to worshippers and non-worshipers alike. 

You can explore the three winding routes of the temple and climb the 81 steps that represent the 81 chapters of the Taoist scripture. The temple complex has a chapel, a wishing well, a library, and a souvenir shop as well.

There is also a balcony with a panoramic view of downtown Cebu. 

See our popular Cebu Vacation Packages

A visit to Cebu won’t be complete without trying out its trademark meat: Lechon. Truly, Lechon is the ultimate pork dish and is one of the must-try Philippine cuisine . It is perfected by slow-roasting a pig over a charcoal pit.

The native pigs used are stuffed with lemongrass, tomato, vinegar, and a mixture of local herbs and spices. You can find Lechon anywhere in the Philippines. However, Cebu's Lechon is recognized nationwide as the best.

• Book a  Cebu food and historical tour

Cebu's Lechon is famous for its signature crispy skin and the juiciest, most flavorful meat that will make you crave more as soon as you taste it.

Unlike other versions of Lechon, Cebu’s version is so savory that you don’t need any sauce to pair it with. It’s best eaten with puso (a local term for “heart”) or rice in heart-shaped coconut fronds.

The best Lechon is said to be from Carcar, a municipality two hours away from Cebu. If you can't make it to Carcar, there are notable Cebu restaurants and take-out counters in Mactan and Cebu City that offer Lechon based on the Carcar recipe.

Among them are Rico's and House of Lechon. Other famous Cebu Lechon joints include Zubuchon and CnT. If you can't eat pork, there are also restaurants offering Cebu halal food . 

A popular tourist spot on the province’s southwestern coast,  Moalboal is best known for its Sardine Run . Imagine swimming amidst millions of sardines in crystal clear waters. If you’re lucky, you may even swim with turtles while snorkeling.

Travelers who experienced this underwater marvel have described it as a breathtaking and surreal experience. What makes this spectacle even more magical is the fact that the sardines don’t leave the shallows of Moalboal. You can experience them year-round, even with just a pair of swimming goggles.

See our popular Moalboal Diving Courses and Packages

However, diving is still considered the best way to witness this wall of millions of sardines. You can watch the schools of sardines closer as they congregate, move, and glide through the water.

If you wish to go diving in Moalboal, Pescador Island is the place to be. Accessible a few minutes by boat from Panagsama Beach, the island houses extensive reefs populated with jacks, sponges, lionfish, and more. 

From pockets of pristine beaches perfect for swimming and lounging under the sun to the vibrant marine life down below, Moalboal has everything and more for beach and ocean lovers.

• Read this article for more t ourist spots in Moalboal

14. Explore Carnaza Island 

Malapascua isn’t the only thing worth seeing in Daanbantayan. One of the newest tourist spots in Cebu, Carnaza Island is two hours away from Malapascua and is a beautiful tourist destination in itself. Spanning 173 hectares, you won’t run out of things to see on this turtle-shaped island.

Carnaza Island boasts mangrove swamps, lagoons, rolling hills, and forested terrain amid the Visayan Sea. The island's beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters will entice you to take the plunge. There are also caves you can explore and a cliff where you can catch a bird's-eye-view of the island.

You should also check out Skull Cave, where you can find an actual human skull. According to locals, the cave was used as a shelter for Japanese soldiers during World War 2. Sunsets are pretty dramatic here as well, as are nights when stars show up on the horizon unbridled.

When on Carnaza Island, be sure to visit Liog-Liog Twin Beach and the secluded Kailina Beach.

Because Carnaza has only recently garnered attention, it’s not crowded and commercialized. Kailina Beach, in particular, is an excellent swimming spot and a great place to commune with nature. 

4-Day Fascinating Culture & Nature Tour Package to Cebu & Bohol with Accommodations & Transfers

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Cebu has a rich history. Luckily, structures that give us a glimpse of the past remain standing to this day. One such structure is Fort San Pedro. This stone fort served as a military defense structure in Cebu during the Spanish occupation. 

The original fort was made of wood; it was later replaced with stone in the 17th century to fight off Muslim raiders. The stone structure that still stands dates today was built in 1738 and is considered the oldest triangular bastion fort in the Philippines.

Fort San Pedro is located in the pier area of Cebu City. It has two sides facing the sea and one side facing what is now called Plaza Independencia.

The three bastions of Fort San Pedro are named La Concepcion (southwest), Ignacio de Loyola (southeast), and San Miguel (northeast). The fourteen cannons that were mounted on those bastions are still there today. 

Now, Fort San Pedro is a museum dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Spanish Government. You can find several artifacts, such as Spanish documents, sculptures, and paintings. Aside from perusing the exhibits, you can also have a picnic inside the fort or explore the walkways on the three bastions of Fort San Pedro.

16. Join a Birdwatching Tour in Olango Island            

Olango Island has been declared a wildlife sanctuary. It is endowed with a diverse coastal ecosystem: large sandy beaches, coral reefs, and a mangrove forest that is recognized as the most extensive in the whole of Cebu Province. 

 This 4,482-hectare protected island is a flyway for migratory birds. If you visit from November to February, you can go birdwatching here, where you may witness 97 species of birds flocking to the island.

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

Thanks to its hectares of mangroves and mudflats, Olango Island is one of the stops for migratory birds coming from Siberia and China, including several endangered species. 

Commonly seen here are egrets, herons, terns, kingfishers, fly-eaters, and others. Birds can reach more than 40,000 during peak season, which starts from November through February. Be sure to drop by at sunrise or sunset for the best chances of seeing them, as they come out to feed during these hours.  

See our popular Cebu Island Hopping Tours

Cebu kawasan falls canyoneering, moalboal island hopping & sardine run tour with lunch & transfers.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Cebu food trip, don’t pass up the opportunity to experience Larsian at Fuente Osmeña in Cebu City.  Larsian is Cebu’s 24-hour barbecue heaven. It is a market-style dining strip similar to a “dampa” where you pick your food and have it cooked for you.

The best part is that the food here is delightfully affordable. You can choose from several stalls that offer a wide selection of ready-to-grill fare.

• Book a  10-day Davao to Cebu to Siargao Philippine tour package

You can go for different types of pork and chicken barbecue or have grilled seafood such as squid. When you dine at Larsian, be sure to try the savory yet sweet Chorizo de Cebu. 

Chorizo de Cebu is a pork sausage made from lean ground pork, ground pork fat, sugar, anise liqueur, and several local spices. It has a distinctly red color because of the achuete seeds.

This mouthwatering local favorite is a must-try. Aside from barbecue, you can also taste local dishes such as "larang," a local fish stew that's perfect for chilly evenings.

The old coral-stone structure of Museo Sugbo formerly held Cebu's convicted felons. The galleries of Museo Sugbo were previously Carcel de Cebu or the provincial jail of Cebu from 1870 to 2004. 

Today, the chambers of Museo Sugbo house a wide array of well-preserved artifacts that tell the history of Cebu. Each room is dedicated to a specific period in Cebu's history.

The American-era gallery boasts an interesting collection of letters and memorabilia from the Thomasite teachers who arrived in the Philippines in 1901.

There is also a World War II gallery that contains an American Bomb that was dropped in Cebu, Japanese propaganda newspapers, and a Purple Heart and Bronze Star awarded to the local hero, Uldrico Cabahug. 

If you want to learn about the political history of the country, Museo Sugbo's presidential gallery is a great place to start. This gallery features portraits of Philippine presidents with their signatures engraved in 24-karat gold-plated metal.

You can also find various archeological artifacts from excavations in Cebu, including gold and ceramics from the famous San Diego shipwreck of 1600. History buff or not, you'll surely be fascinated by the exhibits at Museo Sugbo.

Another place you can add to your  tour of Cebu's historic spots is the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House in Parian, Cebu City. Built during the Spanish colonial era, the Yap-Sandiego house is believed to be one of the oldest houses in the Philippines.

It was constructed out of coral stone, Molave and Balayong wood, terracotta, and glued using egg whites sometime between 1675 and 1700.

The Yap-San Diego Ancestral House was initially owned by a Chinese merchant named Don Juan Yap and his wife, Doña Maria Florido. Albeit weather-beaten, the house survived many generations of the Yap-Sandiego clan.

In 2008, it was formally turned over to the care of Val Sandiego, who initiated a careful restoration of the house and opened it to the public. 

The 2-story Yap-San Diego Ancestral House now displays the treasured collections of the family, such as contemporary and ancient artwork and antique pieces, such as furniture and religious icons. You can also find life-sized statues and images of saints around the house. 

Don’t leave Cebu without exploring the several islets that surround this island province's waters, which are some of the best islands in the Philippines . Thankfully, the nearby Mactan Island is the perfect jump-off point to the beautiful islets of Talima, Caohagan, Cabulan, Nalusuan, Sulpa, and Hilutungan. 

Island-hopping tours from Mactan often start at Hilutungan since it is the nearest to the mainland (accessible within 30 minutes). The island is a protected marine sanctuary and boasts excellent underwater visibility and diverse inhabitants, including octopodes, crabs, and giant clams. 

See our popular Mactan Island Tours

Cebu mactan parasailing, jet ski & banana boat watersports package with hotel transfers, cebu mactan jet ski, banana boat & parasailing watersports package.

Nalusuan Island is also another top place for island hopping in the Philippines . It is also a protected marine sanctuary with a vibrant ecosystem. You can swim with the fish and the occasional turtles here.

The rest of the islets have sandy beaches and are surrounded by calm azure waters perfect for swimming or lounging. They’re also teeming with marine life, so bring your snorkeling gear!

Start planning your trip to the islands of Cebu!

Don't have flights yet? You can find flights to Cebu on this website, as well as  Philippine travel packages for a hassle-free vacation.

If you have more time to spare, we recommend exploring nearby top Philippine destinations from Cebu . Check out our Cebu to Bohol itinerary , Cebu to Boracay itinerary , Cebu to Siargao itinerar y, and Cebu to Bacolod itinerary to help you plan your trip. 

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• Trip Inspiration

Cebu itinerary 3 days — What to do in Cebu for 3 days & How to spend 3 days in Cebu perfectly?

As the second largest city in the country, just behind Manila, Cebu City is known as the Southern Queen of the Philippines with its ancient values blending with its modern architecture that attracts a lot of tourists every year. In addition, Cebu also named itself on the list of favorite destinations of locals and international visitors with world-famous scuba diving or snorkeling activities for whale shark watching. So, what to do in Cebu for 3 days and how to spend 3 days in Cebu perfectly? Let’s check out our Cebu trip itinerary with the details of Cebu itinerary 3 days on a budget (Cebu itinerary 3 days 2 nights) from how to get to Cebu, where to stay, where to eat, best places to visit and top things to do in Cebu in 3 days. Now, joining me to experience the exciting feelings around this fascinating city of Cebu.

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View from the plane, you can easily see that the island of Cebu is surrounded by other large and small islands, so it is not much affected by the storms in the region. But in order to fully explore this island and neighboring islands, you should avoid to go to Cebu during the rainy season starting from July to November. Because of the heavy seas, it will makes our trip incomplete!

Cebu’s beauty is a mixture of natural mountains and forests in the city with unspoiled surrounding islands creating an extremely attractive and interesting landscape.

Cebu trip itinerary: How to get to Cebu?

You should arrange the reasonable flight schedule because you have to transit at Manila International Airport. Currently, Cebu Pacific often sells cheap tickets to the Philippines, if you pay attention to follow up, you will easily buy for yourself the cheap tickets. With only about $72.98 for an international flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Manila, I chose the flight time at 10 pm to sleep on the plane for convenient.

With a 3-hour journey, plus 1 hour due to time zone difference, I arrived at Manila Airport at around 2 am to enter the customs procedures and continue to line up to check-in baggage and continue fly on the domestic route from Manila to Cebu at 4 am. The domestic round-trip airfares for this route are $49.37, also from Cebu Pacific. I recommend you to bring some instant cup noodles (if you go to Cebu and take a tour right during the day) to take advantage of time for breakfast at Manila airport to get on time for the tour in Cebu.

My flight schedule is hasty because I don’t want to miss a whole day of exploring Cebu. And partly because I had a plan for a Cebu tour with the Filipino guy whom I had booked a tour directly from Vietnam.

3 days in Cebu: Transportation and traffic jam

My deepest impression of this city called the Southern Queen is the traffic jam. And my advice is to eliminate at least 2 hours just to catch the car when moving at rush hour, and that’s when you catch a bus or a taxi. As for Jeepney, be careful because it is completely unsafe when you traveling alone! Especially when you bring valuable belongings, it is easy to be pickpocketed or be putted a gun to your head. This is a very useful warning from international visitors on backpacker’s websites. Although I really love these colorful Jeepneys, but I didn’t dare to sitting on and experience even though I went with a very large group.

Cebu itinerary 3 days 2 nights: The friendly Filipino guy

Thanks to actively participating in foreign travel forums, I had the opportunity to get acquainted with a very cute and enthusiastic Filipino guy. He suggested to me some best places to go and help me plan the details of the Cebu itinerary 3 days from what to do in Cebu for 3 days, where to stay and also how to pick up us from the airport to the hotel. And a very lovely thing about him is that when he knew we were Vietnamese, he was completely believed and he did not take the deposit in advance for our tour in Cebu and he said that when he meets us directly, he would receive money. It can be said that Filipinos always know how to make others feel good about themselves, not only in Cebu but the places I have visited are like that! His name is Raven (Phone: +63 926 263 9064 / Email: [email protected] / https://www.facebook.com/pg/blueraventravel).

3 days in Cebu: Where to stay?

Accommodation is also an important part of the trip. Most of the time we spend in Cebu for joining tours all day and in quite remote places, so we only need a comfortable sleeping place and close to the airport for easy transportation. And Cleverlearn Residences Hotel is a perfect place, clean, comfortable rooms, with electric water heater, breakfast, but the price is very cheap! The room rates for 2 nights with 2 rooms for 8 people in my group is 6.300 pesos ($331.37). The big minus point is the WiFi is not good, but as far as I know, almost in the Philippines, hotel WiFi is not a priority. So you remember to buy a 4G SIM card in advance or as soon as you arrive at the airport to make it easier for you to find information.

My hotel and Cebu airport are located right on the island of Mactan, next to Cebu City, about 12km from central Cebu, and have to passing two famous bridges across the river are Osmena Bridge and Marcelo Fernan Bridge. A 2.5-star hotel, you can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

In addition, you can refer to one of the best Airbnb in Cebu: Seaview Hill (Deluxe Room) at $26/night or Abaseria deli and cafe bnb (Room C) at $18/night.

–> Airbnb link discount up to $35 for the first booking here: https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185

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

Cebu itinerary 3 days — Day 1

We arrive the hotel early, take advantage of time to send luggage at the hotel and running to the Raven’s car waiting for us. From the hotel to the pier is very close, the pier also located on the island of Mactan, and we were guided by Raven to getting on the local boat that anchoring at the dock to starting on the underwater adventure to explore unique places around Cebu. Traveling costs from the airport to the hotel and from the pier back to the hotel, Raven charges us 1.500 pesos ($78.90). The price is quite cheap compared to the price we had to pay for a 16-seats car from the hotel to downtown Cebu that costs up to 1.000 pesos ($52.60).

As for the tour price, according to our research, the cost that the native guy offers can be said to be cheap compared to the tour price I’ve seen on other websites. The rental price of the whole boat for a day is 2.500 peso ($131.50) for 8 people, included a lunch meal and water drinks on the boat.

Today’s journey we will explore 3 islands next to Mactan Island. Hilutungan Island, 20 to 30 minutes from Mactan Island by boat, is one the coral reef islands of Olango Island Group, a marine sanctuary. This beautiful island is the ideal place for snorkeling and scuba diving due to the abundant coral reefs and countless tropical fish species. Within a distance of 3m – 7m, you can have fun with the fish, these tropical fishes are friendly and you can feed them bread and swim with them.

Leaving Hilutungan Island, we went to Nalusuan Island. It is home to the most diverse coral reef ecosystem and fish species among the islands around Cebu and is also the top chosen diving destination. Famous for its long wooden bridge and very clear water, you can see the bottom. We had lunch on boat along with some sea snails dishes were sold by local people and processing on site.

The final destination in the first day is an offshore sea. From the boat, you will be surprised to see both the seabed and the coral. We had extremely happy time on the sea. This sea is the same as the last two places we visited, the clear blue sea, lots of corals and fish.

Cebu’s tallest building and adventure games

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• Guided Tours

10 Best Cebu Tours in 2024 (Tour Packages in Cebu With Itinerary and Private Transfers)

• September 22, 2023
• January 14, 2024
• Badian , Bantayan Island , Cebu City , Moalboal , Oslob

Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of family and friends, one of the best ways to explore the vastness of Cebu is through guided tours. CEBU INSIDER has carefully curated the 10 Best Cebu Tours in 2023!

Traveling to a foreign country can be a bit tricky if you are not familiar with how things work. That’s why tours are the easiest way to remove stress and just your destination without thinking about how to get there and what to do. Everything is already arranged for you.

In Cebu, there are so many tours available to provide you with the best travel experience. Whether you are looking for a packaged trip to Bantayan Island or a guided tour to South Cebu where you can swim with giant whale sharks , dive with millions of sardines , and go canyoneering in Badian , Cebu is not short of tours.

If you are wondering which Cebu tours to take, here are some of our top recommendations:

WHAT'S IN THIS POST?

1. Badian Canyoneering and Kawasan Falls Tour

If this is your first time in Cebu, you should do the Badian Canyoneering and Kawasan Falls Tour . Canyoneering in Badian is one of the most popular things to do in Cebu. On this tour, you will swim through cerulean waters from the Kanlaon River to Kawasan Falls.

You don’t have to be a good swimmer to do this activity as you will wear a life vest and safety gear. A gentle reminder, though—canyoneering in Badian involves lots of walking, swimming, and jumping off cliffs, so do prepare your leg strength and endurance.

This activity is only possible with certified tour guides who know the ins and outs of the trail from end to end. These guides are also trained to safeguard tourists and prevent any potential accidents along the way.

2. Oslob Whale Shark Watching Tour

Another must-do outdoor activity in Cebu is swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. The Oslob Whale Shark Watching Tour takes you to the activity center for a short briefing before you are taken to the site to get close to the largest shark and fish alive.

Many of these sharks have made a residency off the coast of Tan-awan, Oslob , so you can guarantee to see them 365 days a year. Whale sharks are friendly, so there’s nothing to worry about. Just keep a good distance to avoid getting swallowed (Yes, they can swallow humans!). Part of this tour is a trip to Tumalog Falls, one of the grandest waterfalls in Cebu .

3. Moalboal Island Hopping Tour

If you are visiting Cebu, don’t ever skip Moalboal , a small tourist town popular among foreign tourists for its unique nature activities. On this Moalboal Island Hopping Tour , you will do the famous sardine run wherein you can swim with millions of sardines just a few meters off the coast of Panagsama Beach. Whether you go snorkeling, freediving, or scuba diving, swimming with a ball of sardines in Moalboal also includes gigantic green and hawksbill sea turtles.

Part of this tour is a trip to Pescador Island, a small island west of Panagsama Beach. Pescador Island is known for its rich marine ecosystem with over 450 species of hard coral, pyramid butterflyfish, tuna, nudibranchs, snake eel, frogfish, barracuda, and white-tipped reef shark. Your island hopping tour may also include a trip to Basdaku or White Beach.

4. Cebu Highlights Tour

If you are pressed for time but want to explore the best of Cebu in as little as 3 days, do the Cebu Highlights Tour ! In 3 days, you will explore Cebu City’s famous tourist attractions and more, including the Temple of Leah (an ornate Roman-style temple), Cebu Taoist Temple, Magellan’s Cross (a pavilion where the historic Roman Catholic cross was planted by explorers of the Spanish expedition of the first circumnavigation of the world led by Ferdinand Magellan), Basilica del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, and 10,000 Roses Café (a coffee shop and an art installation).

Part of this tour is a trip to Oslob to experience whale shark watching and a side trip to Tumalog Falls and Aguinid Falls. You will also visit Sumilon Island where the famous shifting white sandbar can be found. In addition, you will do the canyoneering in Badian and sardine run in Moalboal as well.

5. Bantayan Island Getaway Package

For a more relaxed vacation, head to Bantayan Island , an island on the northern tip of Cebu known for its white sand beaches. This Bantayan Island Getaway Package includes a 3-day luxury resort accommodation, an excursion around the island, and island hopping to Virgin Island, Hilantagaan Island, and Baigad Lagoon.

On your excursion, you will visit tourist attractions in Bantayan Island like Ogtong Cave Pool, Santa Fe Ruins, Paradise Beach, and Omagieca Mangrove Garden and Eco Park. Although not part of the package, you may do activities like skydiving and kitesurfing, depending on the weather conditions.

6. Bantayan Island Hopping Tour

If you don’t need a packaged tour to Bantayan Island but still want to do island hopping, the Bantayan Island Hopping Tour is for you! On this tour, you will be able to visit Virgin Island, Hilantagaan Island, and Baigad Lagoon.

Virgin Island is a private island a few minutes away from Santa Fe in Bantayan Island. It’s home to a crystal-clear white sand beach where you can also do activities like board jumping, snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball.

Your tour starts at Baigad Lagoon where you can dip your toe in its clear white sand beach. Afterwards, you will proceed to Hilantagaan Island where you will snorkel and explore this fishermen’s island. Virgin Island is the highlight of this tour where you are most likely having lunch and spend most of your time.

7. Top of Cebu Private Half-Day Tour

For a worthwhile quick trip around Cebu City, the Top of Cebu Private Half-Day Tour is your best option. Top of Cebu is a fancy restaurant in Busay, on the mountainside of Cebu, where you will have an unforgettable dining experience with a 180-degree view of downtown Cebu City. This tour takes place in the afternoon until evening so you’ll get to see Cebu City shimmering.

8. Mactan Island Hopping Day Tour

Island hopping is one of the best things to do in Mactan Island . The Mactan Island Hopping Day Tour brings you to the popular islands around Mactan, including Pandanon Island, Hilutungan Island, and Nalusuan Island. These islands have rich marine ecosystems, perfect for snorkeling and diving, as well as white sandbars, perfect for frolicking on the beach.

9. Pescador Island Hopping Tour

If you are looking for a private tour of Pescador Island, check out the Pescador Island Hopping Tour . On this tour, you will get a private transfer from Mactan or Cebu City straight to Moalboal and a private boat transfer to Pescador Island where you can snorkel or dive. Pescador Island has rich live corals, so you can expect marine species to thrive.

10. Cebu City Private Day Tour with Simala Shrine

For Catholic devotees who would like a day tour around Cebu City with a side trip to Simala Shrine, the Cebu City Private Day Tour with Simala Shrine is perfect. Visit Magellan’s Cross, Temple of Leah, Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro—some of the most historic sites in the city. Afterward, head to Simala Shrine, formally known as the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, a Roman Catholic pilgrimage dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Sibonga.

Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Cebu

Cebu has many guided tours available to suit your needs. Whether you are looking for private guide tours or join-in tours, you have a range of options.

If you are still preparing for your trip to Cebu, check out our selection of travel guides:

• 10 Best Luxury Resorts in Cebu, Philippines
• Cebu Travel Guide: Itinerary, Budget, Things to Do, Tourist Spots, Nightlife, Internet, More
• 35 Best Things to Do in Cebu: The Most Comprehensive Travel Guide to Cebu
• ​​Cebu Itinerary for 7 Days and 6 Nights: Schedule of Activities and Budget
• Top 20 Best Beaches in Cebu
• 10 Best Islands in Cebu
• Top 25 Best Places to Visit in Cebu

Got questions about your trip to Cebu? Drop them in the comments. We’ll get back to you ASAP!

For updates, follow CEBUINSIDER.com on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .

Mario Manlupig

Mario is the Founder of CEBU INSIDER . In March 2018, he left his full-time job at the Philippines' biggest TV network and became a digital nomad, traveling all over the country until the pandemic happened. He now calls Cebu City his home.

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Cebu Pacific, Singapore Tourism Board Sign MOU to Boost ‘Fly, Stay, Cruise’

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Enhancing Travel Experiences: Cebu Pacific and Singapore Tourism Board Sign MOU

Table of Contents

Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board have taken a significant step to boost tourism between the Philippines and Singapore. They renewed their Memorandum of Understanding, focusing on the “Fly, Stay, Cruise” campaign , which aims to enhance travel experiences for visitors to Singapore. This renewed partnership highlights their joint commitment to promoting tourism and creating more opportunities for travelers.

This collaboration not only strengthens the ties between the two organizations, but also provides a gateway for travelers seeking unique experiences in Singapore. By emphasizing destination preference and recall, Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board are making it easier and more attractive for tourists to visit the Lion City.

For those planning to explore Singapore, this initiative will undoubtedly add value to their travel plans. With daily flights from Clark to Singapore and well-coordinated travel packages, vacationers can look forward to seamless and memorable journeys.

Memorandum of Understanding Details

The new memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board renews a partnership first established in April 2022. Signed on June 6, 2024, this agreement focuses on promoting travel to Singapore through various initiatives such as joint marketing campaigns and special promotions.

One key aspect of the MOU is the “Fly, Stay, Cruise” package, which offers travelers a comprehensive experience combining flights, accommodation, and cruise options. The initiative is designed to highlight Singapore’s diverse attractions and make it a desirable destination for international visitors. Enhanced cooperation between the two entities aims to create more travel opportunities and improve the overall tourism experience.

Impact on Tourism and Recovery

The renewed partnership between Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board is expected to significantly impact tourism and post-pandemic recovery. By working together, they hope to increase visitor numbers to Singapore, offering competitive fares and more travel options.

This collaboration is particularly important following the decline in international travel due to the pandemic. Joint business development and marketing strategies aim to attract more travelers, thus supporting the economic growth of both countries. Increased tourism activity can lead to higher revenue for airlines, hotels, and other related industries, stimulating economic recovery efforts.

Promotional Strategies and Joint Marketing

The partnership includes joint marketing campaigns aimed at increasing Singapore’s visibility as a top travel destination. They use social media handles , like Instagram and Facebook, to reach a wider audience. Through these channels, they share attractive promotions on flights, hotel stays, and cruise packages.

They also cooperate on content creation, such as blog posts and videos, to highlight the benefits of visiting Singapore. The VisitSingapore brand leverages Cebu Pacific’s extensive network to boost destination preference and recall. These efforts help make Singapore a top choice for travelers from the Philippines and beyond.

Development of Singaporewards and App Features

To enhance the travel experience, new features will be added to the VisitSingapore App . The app will include Singaporewards , a rewards program offering points for various activities like dining and shopping. Travelers can use these points for discounts and offers, making their trip more enjoyable.

The app will also provide real-time updates on promotions, events, and tourist spots. This makes it easier for users to plan and maximize their stay. These digital enhancements aim to provide a seamless, enriching experience for visitors, encouraging repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth.

Benefits for Travelers

Cebu Pacific’s partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board offers numerous advantages for travelers, enhancing connectivity and travel options, and providing specific benefits through the Fly, Stay, and Cruise program. These benefits are especially relevant for travelers from the Philippines, Asia, and beyond.

Enhanced Connectivity and Travel Options

Travelers can enjoy better connectivity between various destinations. Cebu Pacific operates flights from multiple gateways such as Mactan Cebu International Airport , Manila , Davao , and Clark, Pampanga . This ensures that travelers have convenient access to flights.

The partnership also opens up more routes and options for travel to Singapore , making it easier for people from the Philippines and other parts of Asia to visit.

This enhanced connectivity is not just limited to flights. It extends to cruise options as well, making the travel experience seamless for those interested in combining a flight with a cruise trip.

Fly, Stay, and Cruise Advantages

The Fly, Stay, and Cruise program offers numerous perks, especially for Meetings and Incentive Corporate Groups . By combining flights, hotel stays, and cruises, this initiative provides a hassle-free travel experience.

Travelers can expect to enjoy world-class cruise ships along with convenient payment options including travel funds , payment centers , credit or debit cards , and e-wallets .

This comprehensive travel package is ideal for those looking to explore Singapore in a unique and enjoyable way. The program also caters to travelers from the Middle East and Australia , making it a versatile option for various international visitors.

The Fly, Stay, and Cruise initiative enhances the overall travel experience by offering tailored travel packages, which cater to different travel needs, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable visit to Singapore.

Pricing and Booking Information

Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board have designed various offers to make travel more accessible. These include discounted fares and exclusive deals for specific traveler groups.

Sale Offers and Booking Periods

Cebu Pacific is offering a promotional one-way base fare starting at PHP499. This offer is available for a limited time from March 13 to March 15, 2023. The travel period for this sale is from June 1 to November 30, 2023.

Travelers looking to take advantage should book their tickets within the sale period to secure the lower rates. Promotions like these are intended to boost destination preference among travelers, making it easier and more affordable to visit Singapore. This pricing strategy is part of the broader partnership aims between Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board.

Exclusive Deals for Target Audiences

Cebu Pacific, in collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board, has also crafted special packages for various traveler groups. These include deals focused on corporate groups, known as “Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions” (MICE), and specific promotions for Filipino travelers, often termed as the “Juan” market.

For corporate groups, the “Fly, Stay, Cruise” package offers an all-in-one solution that simplifies booking and travel logistics. This includes everything from flights and hotel stays to cruises, providing convenience and value.

For the general Filipino market, Cebu Pacific regularly runs seat sale offers aimed at making travel affordable. These promotions are part of a strategic effort to enhance destination recall and preference for Singapore, ensuring that more Filipinos can enjoy travel experiences at lower costs.

Destination Singapore

Singapore offers a dynamic array of attractions and activities, catering to both leisure and business travelers. With its bustling cityscape and rich cultural heritage, the Lion City is an ideal destination for various types of visitors.

Exploring the Lion City

Traveling to Singapore provides a rich cultural and culinary experience. The Singapore Tourism Board ensures that the city remains appealing to international visitors. Known as the Lion City , Singapore boasts many scenic spots , from Gardens by the Bay to the Marina Bay Sands.

Diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little India allow travelers to explore different cultural backgrounds. The culinary scene is vibrant, offering everything from hawker centers to fine dining. Singapore’s shopping districts, such as Orchard Road, are famous for their wide variety of goods.

For those seeking thrill-seeking activities , the city offers attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and various water sports at Sentosa Island. The transportation network, including the MRT and buses, makes travel around the city easy and efficient.

Attracting MICE Groups with Fly-Cruise Model

Singapore is a prominent regional hub for Meetings and Incentive Corporate Groups (MICE) due to its excellent connectivity and infrastructure. The Singapore Tourism Board works closely with partners like Cebu Pacific to create the Fly-Cruise model, enhancing travel options for business and leisure.

Corporations can take advantage of Singapore’s modern convention centers and luxury hotels. The Fly-Cruise model offers seamless transitions from flights to cruises, making it attractive for large groups. Singapore’s strategic location and world-class economic sectors make it ideal for international business meetings and conferences.

With collaborations between Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board, travelers can expect well-coordinated travel packages that cater to both business and leisure needs . This collaborative approach strengthens Singapore’s status as a key destination for both straightforward and complex travel requirements.

The Influence of Brand Ambassadors

Brand ambassadors play a crucial role in promoting Cebu Pacific’s collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) by enhancing brand visibility and inspiring travel through engaging content. Celebrities such as Megan Young and Mikael Daez are key figures in this initiative, bringing unique charm and influence to the campaign.

Travel Film Featuring Megan Young and Mikael Daez

Megan Young and Mikael Daez, a well-known celebrity couple, have been introduced as the new brand ambassadors for Cebu Pacific and STB’s partnership. They feature in a travel film that showcases Singapore’s vibrant destination features. The travel film highlights Singapore’s unique blend of modern architecture and rich cultural heritage, offering travel inspiration to potential visitors.

Their participation brings a touch of glamour and relatability, boosting brand awareness. They present authentic experiences which resonate with audiences, making the content more engaging and trustworthy. This helps potential travelers envision their own journeys, further enhancing their interest in visiting Singapore.

Passion Made Possible Marketing Campaign

The “Passion Made Possible” campaign by the Singapore Tourism Board uses influencer marketing to emphasize the diverse experiences Singapore offers. With Megan Young and Mikael Daez at the forefront, the campaign portrays Singapore not just as a destination, but as a place where travelers can pursue their passions.

Their stories and interactions with local culture highlight the city’s attractions in food, arts, and adventure. This campaign efficiently merges storytelling with marketing, making Singapore appear as an exciting and versatile travel destination. By doing so, it strengthens both Cebu Pacific’s and STB’s positions in the competitive travel market, encouraging more Filipinos to explore the Lion City.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the objectives of the memorandum of understanding signed between cebu pacific and the singapore tourism board.

The key objectives include promoting Singapore as a top destination for travelers from the Philippines and increasing travel traffic between the two locations. They also aim to create more appealing travel packages to encourage visits.

How will the ‘Fly, Stay, Cruise’ partnership benefit travelers?

Travelers will enjoy a combination of services that include flying with Cebu Pacific, staying at selected accommodations, and cruising options. This integrated experience is designed to be convenient and cost-effective, enhancing the overall travel experience.

What specific promotions or packages can passengers expect from the ‘Fly, Stay, Cruise’ initiative?

Passengers can expect bundled travel deals that include discounts on flights, hotel stays, and cruises. These packages are crafted to provide a seamless vacation experience at a lower cost.

Are there particular destinations highlighted in this collaboration between Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board?

The main focus is on promoting various attractions within Singapore. This includes both popular tourist spots and unique, lesser-known destinations that give travelers a broader view of what Singapore has to offer.

How can consumers access information or book the offerings presented by the ‘Fly, Stay, Cruise’ promotion?

Consumers can access detailed information and book their packages through the official websites of Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board. They can also contact travel agencies that are partnering with the initiative for more personalized booking assistance.

What measures are being taken to ensure sustainable tourism practices in the ‘Fly, Stay, Cruise’ collaboration?

Both Cebu Pacific and the Singapore Tourism Board are committed to sustainable tourism. This includes efforts to minimize environmental impact and promote eco-friendly touring options. They are also focused on supporting local communities and businesses in Singapore.

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Read: Top 36 Best THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE + Tourist Spots

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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