Beaches, Historical Spots, Lechon, and More: Cebu Travel Guide

With its rich history and awe-inspiring natural resources, Cebu is one of the most sought-after destinations in the Philippines. The province has a wealth of destinations for every type of traveler—beaches for sunshine lovers, heritage spots for culture vultures, and lechon restaurants for foodies. 

Planning a visit soon? Check out this comprehensive Cebu travel guide!

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Cebu Travel Guide: A Quick Overview 

Located in Central Visayas, Cebu is an island province that played an important role in the history of the Philippines. Long before the arrival of the Spaniards, Cebu was already a center of commerce—locals traded with people from China, India, Burma, Malaysia, and Japan, among others.^[1] 

In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan arrived in Cebu, marking the island’s first contact with the Spaniards. In 1565, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi arrived in Cebu, marking the start of Catholicism in the country. 

Cebu is home to Cebu City, the province’s capital and largest city, otherwise known as the Queen City of the South. It’s usually the jump-off point for many tourists since the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the country’s second busiest airport, is here. 

Just like the rest of the Philippines, Cebu has a tropical climate. This means it enjoys two seasons: wet and dry. 

So what’s the best time to go to Cebu? To enjoy lots of sunshine and beach activities, visit Cebu during the dry season, which runs from January to May. 

Read more: Beaches, Parks, and More: Outdoor Activities for ₱3,000 or Less

How to Go to Cebu 

The fastest way to go to Cebu is via a direct flight. Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and Philippines AirAsia, three of the country’s major air carriers, operate flights bound for the island. Travel time takes around 1.5 hours. 

But if you want to save money and take your trip at a leisurely pace, travel by sea via 2GO. If you take the fastest schedule, your Cebu trip can take around 26 hours. 

How to Get Around Cebu 

Since it’s a developed province, you can easily and comfortably get around Cebu. Here are your transportation options: 

• Taxis - These are prominent in the metropolitan area. They’re a great option if you want to get directly to your destination. 
• Ride-hailing services - If you don’t feel like hailing your ride on the curb, book it via a ride-hailing app. Grab and Angkas are available in Metro Cebu.  
• Buses - For long-distance trips within the island, you can always rely on buses. There are two major bus terminals located in Cebu City: the North Bus Terminal and the South Bus Terminal. The North Bus Terminal houses buses bound for northern destinations like Malapascua, Bantayan, Tuburan, and Borbon. The South Bus Terminal, meanwhile, operates trips bound for southern destinations like Oslob, Moalboal, and Toledo, among others. 
• Jeepneys and multi-cabs - They’re ideal for short-distance trips, especially if you want to save money.  
• Tricycles - Also perfect for short-distance trips, these vehicles are available for charter if you want a more private travel. 
• Boats and ferries - Travel to the many islands of Cebu Province via these vehicles. 

How Much to Budget for a Cebu Trip 

You can plan a relatively inexpensive Cebu trip, especially if you book budget flights and accommodation. Nevertheless, the budget will also depend on how many days you want to stay on the island and the kind of activities you want to take part in. 

Assuming you book budget flights, a three-day, two-night vacation can cost between ₱12,000 and ₱16,000—all-in! If you want to shop, just add around ₱2,000 to ₱3,000 to your budget. 

Where to Stay in Cebu 

Photo: Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu website

Cebu has plenty of accommodation options. Here are some that can suit a variety of budgets: 

🏝️ Cebu Accommodation Options for Budget Travelers

If you’re looking to save money, here are your options: 

• bai Hotel Cebu 
• Harolds Evotel Cebu 
• Vivien’s Hotel 
• Cebu Backpackers Hostel
• Mad Monkey Cebu City
• Bayfront Hotel Cebu
• Amber Hotel Cebu
• MJ Hotel and Suites
• Hop Inn Cebu
• Summit Galleria Hotel 

🏝️ Cebu Accommodation Options for Luxury Travelers

Splurge and enjoy extra comfort at these accommodation options: 

• Shangri-La Mactan
• Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island
• Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort
• Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort
• Bluewater Sumilon Island
• Marco Polo Plaza Cebu
• Badian Island Wellness Resort
• Villa Empress Cebu
• Crimson Resort and Spa-Mactan Island
• Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel

Related: Your Home on the Island: Where to Stay in Siargao

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Cebu Travel Guide: Tourist Spots to Visit

Where to go in Cebu? There are a zillion destinations on the island, but we’ve narrowed them down to the following: 

📍 Kawasan Falls 

Located in Badian, Kawasan Falls is one of the most popular tourist spots in Cebu, especially among adventurers. But don’t worry, the trek to the stunning falls is beginner-friendly. 

After booking a canyoneering tour, the tour guide will take you through gigantic boulders, various ice-cold pools, and thrilling cliffs. The journey itself treats you to relaxing nature views. Once you reach the falls, you’ll be rewarded with its picture-perfect beauty and turquoise waters. 

📍 Oslob 

Oslob is a quaint coastal town located in Cebu’s southern part. Here, you can swim with whale sharks, which is probably the town’s most popular activity. 

However, there are other things to enjoy in Oslob. You can visit Sumilon Island and enjoy its fine sands and clear waters. 

If you can’t get enough of waterfalls, head to Tumalog Falls and marvel at its waters’ curtain-like descent. If you book seaside accommodation, you can also simply laze around in the yard while enjoying a view of the sea. 

It's definitely one of the best places to unwind in South Cebu.

📍 Bantayan Island 

Bantayan Island is one of the top tourist spots in Cebu for beach lovers who want peace and quiet. Its powder-like sands and gin-clear waters are truly world-class, but the island is not as crowded as Boracay, El Nido, or Coron. 

Kota Beach, the secluded Paradise Beach, and Ogtong Cave are all must-visits in Cebu. You can also visit the equally beautiful Virgin Island from Bantayan Island. 

📍 Malapascua Island  

Found in the northern part of Cebu, Malapascua Island is popular for its beautiful diving spots, which bring you closer to aquatic lifeforms like sharks, octopuses, and manta rays. 

If you want to take your sweet time, book an island tour that will take you to different beaches and points of interest, such as the Lapus Lapus Beach with its creamy sands; Langub Beach and its famous white sands; and the Lighthouse with its relaxing sunset view.    

📍 Magellan’s Cross 

If you’re a history buff, Magellan’s Cross is one of the best places to visit in Cebu. Declared a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines, this attraction houses the large wooden cross planted by the Spanish expedition. 

The original cross, which had been chipped away by locals for its supposed miraculous properties, is believed to be encased inside the cross on display. Meanwhile, others believe that the original cross was already destroyed. 

However, that doesn’t take away the fact that the cross is a sight to behold. 

📍 Basilica del Santo Niño 

Not too far from Magellan’s Cross is the Basilica del Santo Niño. One of the oldest churches in the Philippines, this minor basilica attracts thousands of devotees, especially during Sinulog. 

Inside, the intricate altars and ceiling frescoes express both impressive artistry and religious solemnity. The museum beside the church, meanwhile, houses various historical artifacts, including replicas of the Santo Niño sourced from different regions of the Philippines. 

📍 Mactan Island 

Just a few kilometers from Cebu’s main island, Mactan Island boasts some of the province’s most popular attractions. First on the list is the Mactan Shrine, which serves as the site for two monuments: the Magellan Monument, dedicated to Ferdinand Magellan; and the Lapu-Lapu Monument, a large bronze statue of Lapu Lapu. 

If you’re looking for stunning beaches near Cebu City, just head to Mactan Island. You can access a few of them by booking a stay at one of the exclusive, high-end resorts on the island.

Related: The Waves Beckon: 12 Best Surf Spots in the Philippines  

📍 Tops Lookout 

Tops Lookout, or simply Tops, is a popular observation and picnic location that treats both locals and tourists to sweeping views of Cebu, Mactan Island, and Mandaue. You can also enjoy the scenery as you dine at one of the restaurants or cafés in the area. 

Tops is also one of the most popular chill places in Cebu, especially at night. Come here during sunset and wait for the city lights to appear as it gets dark. Bring a jacket and wear pants, as Tops can really get cold at night. 

📍 Sirao Flower Farm  

Sirao Flower Farm is one of the top tourist spots in Cebu for flower lovers and selfie enthusiasts. Located in Barangay Sirao in Cebu City, this destination drowns in color during the summer season as various flowers bloom. Tour the park for sunflowers, hyacinths, and more, while taking in the mountainous breeze. 

📍 Temple of Leah 

You’re not in Europe. You’re just in the Temple of Leah!

An architectural marvel, this structure isn’t just a tourist attraction in Cebu but also a grand expression of love. It’s a mausoleum dedicated to Leah Albino-Adarna by her husband, businessman Teodorico Soriano Adarna. 

Tour the mausoleum and be in awe of the building’s details. Since the Temple of Leah is located on a hill, you’ll also get a good view of the city below. 

What to Do in Cebu

With Cebu’s many destinations, you can enjoy countless activities. Here are some of them:  

• Swim, dive, and snorkel - With clear waters surrounding the province, you’ll never run out of spots to swim, dive, or snorkel in.  
• Go island-hopping - From north to south, Cebu’s islands boast fine, cream or white sands and endless sunshine. 
• Hike - If you’re looking for some adventure, conquer Cebu’s mountains, such as Sirao Peak, Osmeña Peak, Mount Mago, and Casino Peak, just to name a few. 
• Shop - If you’re done swimming and island-hopping, shop ‘til you drop at some of Cebu’s most popular retail centers, such as Ayala Center Cebu, SM Seaside City Cebu, and Robinsons Galleria Cebu. Head to Carbon Market for fruits and handicrafts or Taboan Public Market for dried seafood.  
• Visit museums and heritage spots - Cebu’s many museums and heritage spots will give you insight into the country’s past. These include the National Museum of the Philippines-Cebu, University of San Carlos Museum, Museo Sugbo, and more.  
• Attend Sinulog - Come to Cebu in January to enjoy the colorful Sinulog Festival, which celebrates the Santo Niño. It remains one of the biggest and most well-known festivals in the Philippines.^[2]
• Go clubbing - Enjoy a nightcap with friends after a day of activities at bars in Cebu City, Oslob, and Moalboal. 
• Go on a food trip - Cebu is an excellent culinary center, playing host to the following food destinations: 
  • Sugbo Sentro - A mainstay in Cebu’s food scene, Larsian was home to various barbecue restaurants. It closed in 2020 but returned as Sugbo Sentro in 2023,^[3] offering more than just barbecue but also lechon, fried chicken, and even dim sum. 
  • Lechon restaurants - You shouldn’t leave Cebu without sampling the iconic Cebu lechon. Popular lechon restaurants include Zubuchon, Rico’s Lechon, CnT Lechon, and House of Lechon. 
  • Café Laguna - Love classic Pinoy dishes? Head to Café Laguna for your fix of crispy pata, pancit canton, kare-kare, and more. 
  • La Parisienne - If you’re feeling fancy, La Parisienne offers a luxurious ambiance as you enjoy European-inspired dishes. 
  • Lemon Grass Restaurant - This restaurant serves Thai and Vietnamese fares–—perfect for those craving strong Asian and aromatic flavors. 
  • Barangay Seoul - This joint proves that K-barbecue is here to stay. Barangay Seoul also offers a wide selection of side dishes. 
  • La Fortuna Cafe Bakery - Before heading back to your hotel from your city tour, drop by this bakery for hopia, tikoy, piaya, and more. 

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Cebu Travel Guide: Tips for a More Fun Trip

Make your Cebu trip comfortable and memorable with these pointers:  

• Bring sunscreen. You’ll walk a lot under the sun, especially if you plan to visit beaches. Protect your skin properly. 
• Wear lightweight clothes. Avoid sweating and stay fresh with this tip, especially if you’re visiting during summer. Complete your get-up with a cap and sunnies for added protection against the sun.
• Book a tour package to save money and time. This will take away the stress from planning. It’ll also help you steer clear of scams. 
• Bring enough cash. Shops, hotels, and restaurants in key urban areas accept debit and credit cards. But if you visit rural areas, make sure to bring enough cash to avoid inconveniences. 
• Keep your itinerary lean. Don’t squeeze multiple destinations far away from each other into your itinerary. This will only tire you. 

Related:

• Things to Do in Boracay in 2024: Top Activities on the Island
• Discover the Country’s Last Frontier: Palawan Travel Guide
• Siargao Travel Guide: Where to Go and What to Do 

Final Thoughts

From bustling cities to pristine beaches, Cebu has it all. Every type of traveler will definitely fall in love with this island. If you need an exciting getaway, Cebu is fortunately just a little over an hour away from Manila via plane. 

Make your vacation one for the books with this Cebu travel guide. If you have a relative living in this province, you can always ask them for fantastic recommendations. Enjoy!

Sources: 

• ^[1] History of Cebu
• ^[2] The “Father of Sinulog” and the Making of Cebu’s Biggest Festival (Rappler, 2024)
• ^[3] Larsian, Cebu’s Favorite Grill Strip, is Back and Better, Now Called Sugbo Sentro Fuente Osmeña Branch (Sugbo.ph, 2023)