Best Places and Activities in Cebu Philippines 2023
MAY 08, 2023
Introduction
Cebu is a beautiful province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. The province offers a unique blend of modern and traditional attractions, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. In this blog post, we'll explore the top 10 places and things to do in Cebu Philippines, including:
- Magellan's Cross
- Cebu Taoist Temple
- Basilica del Santo Niño
- Fort San Pedro
- Casa Gorordo Museum
- Mactan Island
- Osmeña Peak
- Sirao Flower Farm
- Kawasan Falls
- Whale Shark Watching in Oslob
But before we dive into the details of each attraction, let's first discuss why Cebu Philippines is a must-visit destination.
Why Cebu Philippines is a must-visit destination
Cebu Philippines is a must-visit destination for several reasons. Here are a few:
- Rich cultural heritage: Cebu is home to several historical sites and landmarks that date back to the Spanish colonial era. These include Magellan's Cross, the Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro, among others.
- Beautiful beaches: Cebu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. The clear blue waters, white sand, and stunning coral reefs make it a paradise for beach lovers.
- Adventure activities: Whether you're a thrill-seeker or an outdoor enthusiast, Cebu has something for everyone. From hiking to diving, kayaking to whale shark watching, the province offers a wide range of adventure activities.
- Delicious food: Cebu is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Filipino, Spanish, and Chinese influences. From lechon (roast pig) to seafood, the food in Cebu is sure to delight your taste buds.
- Warm hospitality: Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, and the people of Cebu are no exception. You'll feel at home as soon as you arrive in the province.
Now that we've established why Cebu Philippines is a must-visit destination let's dive into the top 10 places and things to do in Cebu.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Cebu is a city with a rich history and culture, with many sites that showcase its unique heritage. Here are some of the must-visit historical and cultural sites in Cebu:
Magellan's Cross
Magellan's Cross is one of the most famous landmarks in Cebu. It is a wooden cross planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan upon arriving in Cebu in 1521. The site is located in a small chapel in the middle of the city, and it is said that the cross contains wood from the original cross Magellan planted.
Fort San Pedro
Fort San Pedro is a military defense structure built by the Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi, in 1565. It is considered as the oldest fort in the Philippines and was built to protect against pirates and other invaders. Today, the fort has been restored and turned into a museum, showcasing various historical artifacts and exhibits.
Basilica del Santo Niño
The Basilica del Santo Niño is a Roman Catholic basilica located in the city center of Cebu. It is home to the Santo Niño de Cebu, a miraculous statue of the Child Jesus that was brought by Magellan in 1521. The basilica is a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike, especially during the annual Sinulog Festival, which honors the Santo Niño.
Taoist Temple
The Taoist Temple is a colorful temple located in the Beverly Hills Subdivision of Cebu. It was built by the city's Chinese community in 1972 and features a mix of traditional Chinese and modern architectural styles. The temple is open to the public, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the temple's customs and traditions.
Cebu's historical and cultural sites offer a glimpse into the city's rich past and diverse cultural heritage. These sites are not only educational but also serve as important landmarks in Cebu's history and identity.
Beautiful Beaches
Cebu is known for its beautiful beaches that offer crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and breathtaking views. Here are the top four beaches in Cebu that you should not miss:
Mactan Island
Mactan Island is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, world-class resorts, and vibrant nightlife. The island is home to several beach resorts that offer a wide range of water activities, including snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. Some of the must-visit beaches on Mactan Island are Shangri-La Mactan Beach, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, and Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort.
Fort San Pedro
Fort San Pedro is a military defense structure built by the Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi, in 1565. It is considered as the oldest fort in the Philippines and was built to protect against pirates and other invaders. Today, the fort has been restored and turned into a museum, showcasing various historical artifacts and exhibits.
Malapascua Island
Malapascua Island is a paradise for beach lovers and divers. This small island located north of Cebu is famous for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. The island is home to several dive sites where you can see thresher sharks, manta rays, and other marine creatures. Some of the must-visit beaches on Malapascua Island are Bounty Beach, Logon Beach, and Guimbitayan Beach.
Bantayan Island
Bantayan Island is a hidden gem located in the northern part of Cebu. The island boasts of its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. The island is also known for its annual fiesta, the Bantayan Island Summer Festival, where locals and tourists can enjoy street parties, live music, and traditional dances. Some of the must-visit beaches on Bantayan Island are Sugar Beach, Alice Beach, and Paradise Beach.
Moalboal
Moalboal is a coastal town located in the southwestern part of Cebu. The town is home to several beautiful beaches and marine sanctuaries where you can see a variety of marine life, including sardines, turtles, and colorful corals. Some of the must-visit beaches in Moalboal are Basdaku Beach, Panagsama Beach, and White Beach.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, these beautiful beaches in Cebu are sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Adventure and Nature Trips
If you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, Cebu has a lot of thrilling activities and picturesque landscapes that will surely captivate your heart. Here are some of the must-visit adventure and nature spots in Cebu:
Osmeña Peak
- Considered the highest peak in Cebu, Osmeña Peak boasts a panoramic view of the island, making it a popular spot for hikers and adventure seekers.
- Located in Dalaguete, it takes approximately 2-3 hours of trekking to reach the summit.
- Along the way, you will be greeted by the cool breeze and a picturesque view of the surrounding mountains.
Kawasan Falls
- Kawasan Falls is a three-layered waterfall located in Badian, Cebu.
- It is one of the most famous tourist spots in the province and for a good reason.
- The falls feature turquoise blue water, are surrounded by lush greenery, and are a perfect spot for swimming, canyoneering, or simply relaxing.
Whale shark watching in Oslob
- A once-in-a-lifetime experience that you shouldn't miss when visiting Cebu is whale shark watching in Oslob.
- Located in the southern part of Cebu, Oslob offers an opportunity to swim with the gentle giants of the sea.
- You can witness these majestic creatures up close and personal, and it's truly an unforgettable experience.
Tumalog Falls
- Tumalog Falls is a hidden gem located in Oslob, Cebu.
- The falls feature a unique curtain-like water formation that cascades down from a towering height of about 60 meters.
- The falls' turquoise blue water is perfect for swimming, and the surrounding lush greenery makes it a picture-perfect spot for nature lovers.
How to Get to Cebu
By Air
Cebu is accessible by air from Manila, other Philippine destinations, and international destinations. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the second busiest airport in the Philippines, serving over 10 million passengers annually.
Cebu has an international airport, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, which is located on Mactan Island, about 30 minutes away from Cebu City. The airport is served by several domestic and international airlines, making it easy to get to Cebu from anywhere in the world.
From Manila Flights to Cebu
There are several airlines that operate flights from Manila to Cebu, including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia. Flight time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
From Other Philippine Destinations
There are also direct flights from other Philippine destinations such as Davao, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro to Cebu.
From International Destinations
Cebu is accessible from several international destinations such as Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taipei. Airlines that fly to Cebu include Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, SilkAir, and Philippine Airlines.
Ferries to Cebu
Cebu has two major ports: the Cebu International Port and the Ouano Wharf in Mandaue City. Some of the ferry companies that operate to and from Cebu include OceanJet, SuperCat, and Weesam Express.
Traveling to Cebu is easy and convenient, whether by air or sea. With several options available, you can choose the best mode of transportation that suits your schedule and budget.
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Accommodation Options
When planning a trip to Cebu, one of the most important things to consider is where to stay. Fortunately, the city offers a range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences.
Hotels and Resorts
Cebu boasts several luxurious hotels and resorts that offer top-notch amenities, including swimming pools, spas, and fine dining restaurants. Some of the best options in Cebu City include:
- Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa: A 5-star beachfront resort that features a private beach, an outdoor pool, and multiple restaurants.
- Marco Polo Plaza Cebu: A 5-star hotel that offers panoramic views of the city, an outdoor pool, and a wellness center.
- Radisson Blu Cebu: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of Cebu City, with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Mid-range
For those on a mid-range budget, there are plenty of options available in Cebu. Some of the best include:
- Cebu Parklane International Hotel: A 4-star hotel located in the city center, with an outdoor pool and a fitness center.
- Crown Regency Hotel and Towers: A 4-star hotel that features a rooftop pool, a spa, and an indoor amusement park.
- Quest Hotel and Conference Center: A 3-star hotel that offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
Budget
Budget travelers need not worry about accommodation options in Cebu, as there are plenty of budget-friendly options available, including:
- Sugbutel Family Hotel: A budget hotel located in the heart of Cebu City, offering dormitory-style rooms and private rooms.
- Red Planet Cebu: A budget hotel that offers modern rooms, located in the city center.
- Allsons' Inn: A budget hotel that offers comfortable rooms, located near the Fuente Osmeña Circle.
Hostels and Guesthouses
Hostels and guesthouses are great options for backpackers or travelers looking to meet new people. Some of the best options in Cebu include:
- Kukuruza Hostel: A hostel located in the city center, offering both dormitory-style and private rooms.
- Ananas Guesthouse: A guesthouse located near the Ayala Center Cebu, offering comfortable rooms and a communal kitchen.
- 8th Street Guesthouse: A guesthouse located near the Fuente Osmeña Circle, offering clean rooms and a rooftop terrace.
Vacation Rentals
For those looking for a more unique experience, vacation rentals are a great option. These can range from apartments to villas and offer more privacy and space. Some of the best options in Cebu include:
- Mactan Island Luxury Apartment: A spacious apartment located on Mactan Island, offering stunning ocean views and modern amenities.
- Cebu Paradise Villa: A luxurious villa located in the hills of Cebu City, offering panoramic views of the city and a private pool.
Booking Platform
There are several booking platforms that you can use to make a booking for your trip to Cebu, including:
- Expedia: Offers a range of accommodation options in Cebu, with a focus on luxury.
- KKDAY: Offers vacation rentals in Cebu, as well as tours and activities.
- Hotels.com: Hotels.com is a popular online booking platform for hotels that offers a wide range of accommodation options worldwide, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.
Agoda: Agoda is a popular booking platform that offers a wide range of accommodation options in Cebu. It also offers competitive prices and easy booking and cancellation processes.
Booking.com: Booking.com is another popular booking platform that offers a wide range of accommodation options in Cebu. It also offers a Best Price Guarantee and easy booking and cancellation processes.
CheapAir: CheapAir is an online travel booking platform that allows travelers to search and compare prices for flights, hotels, and rental cars. They also offer a price drop payback feature that refunds the difference if the price drops after booking.
Car Rentals and Taxis in Cebu
If you're planning a trip to Cebu, you might want to consider renting a car or hiring a taxi to make the most of your time on the island. Here are some things to keep in mind when looking for transportation options in Cebu:
Car Rentals
Renting a car in Cebu can be a convenient way to get around the island. Most rental companies offer a range of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs, at reasonable prices. Some of the top car rental companies in Cebu include:
KiwiTaxi
KiwiTaxi is a reliable online platform that offers a wide selection of cars for rent in Cebu. They offer different types of vehicles, from sedans to vans, to suit different travel needs. KiwiTaxi is known for its excellent customer service and hassle-free booking process.
DiscoverCars
DiscoverCars is a car rental comparison website that allows you to compare prices from different car rental companies in Cebu. They have a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to find the right car for your needs. DiscoverCars offers 24/7 customer support to ensure a smooth rental experience.
EconomyBookings
EconomyBookings is another car rental comparison website that offers competitive prices for car rentals in Cebu. They work with well-known rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, to provide a wide selection of vehicles to choose from. EconomyBookings also offers free cancellation on most bookings.
Trip.com
Trip.com is a popular travel booking platform that offers flights, hotels, and car rentals. They have a wide range of cars to choose from in Cebu, including luxury vehicles and SUVs. Trip.com often has special deals and discounts that can help you save on your car rental.
Taxis
Taxis are a common form of transportation in Cebu, especially for short trips around the city. Here are some popular taxi providers in Cebu:
HolidayTaxis
HolidayTaxis is a popular taxi provider that offers airport transfers, hotel transfers, and private tours in Cebu. They have a fleet of modern vehicles, including sedans, minivans, and buses, to cater to different group sizes. HolidayTaxis offers fixed prices for their services, which means you won't have to worry about unexpected fees.
Klook
HolidayTaxis is a popular taxi provider that offers airport transfers, hotel transfers, and private tours in Cebu. They have a fleet of modern vehicles, including sedans, minivans, and buses, to cater to different group sizes. HolidayTaxis offers fixed prices for their services, which means you won't have to worry about unexpected fees.
Guides
If you're looking for a local guide to show you around Cebu, you can refer to GetYourGuide. They offer a variety of tours and activities in Cebu, from city tours to island hopping adventures.
Food and Nightlife
Cebu is a foodie's paradise, with a range of delicious local and international cuisine to satisfy any craving. When it comes to food and nightlife, these are some must-visit places in Cebu:
- Cebu Lechon: This is a famous roasted pig dish that originated in Cebu and is now a must-try when visiting the city. The skin is crispy, while the meat is juicy and flavorful.
- Larsian Barbecue: This is a popular barbecue spot that offers a range of grilled meat, seafood, and vegetables, as well as other local delicacies. The best part? It's cheap and open until the wee hours of the morning.
- Sugbo Mercado: This is a food market that offers a variety of local and international cuisine. It's a great place to try different dishes in one location, and there are often live performances and events happening as well.
- IT Park: This is a modern development in Cebu that is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to hang out and enjoy good food and drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Shopping
Cebu is not only a destination for beaches and culture but also for shopping. Here are some of the top places to shop in the city:
- SM City Cebu: This is the largest shopping mall in the city, offering a wide variety of local and international brands. It has numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a cinema and an ice-skating rink.
- Ayala Center Cebu: This is another popular shopping destination in the city, known for its upscale shops and restaurants. It has a modern design and features a mix of high-end and mid-range brands.
- Carbon Market: This is the city's oldest and largest public market, where you can find fresh produce, seafood, meat, and other local products. It's a great place to experience local culture and try some street food.
- Taboan Public Market: This market is famous for its dried fish or "daing," which is a popular local delicacy. It also offers other local products such as fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts.
Whether you're looking for luxury items or local souvenirs, these shopping destinations in Cebu have something for everyone.
Conclusion
Cebu Philippines is an incredible travel destination that has something to offer for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural beauty, adventurous activities, and delicious food, Cebu Philippines has it all. Here's a quick recap of the top 10 places and things to do in Cebu Philippines:
- Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, Basilica del Santo Niño, and Taoist Temple - These historical and cultural sites offer a glimpse into Cebu's past and present, showcasing the region's unique blend of Spanish and Chinese influences.
- Mactan Island, Malapascua Island, Bantayan Island, and Moalboal - These beautiful beaches are some of the best in the world, offering crystal-clear waters, white sand, and an array of water activities.
- Osmeña Peak, Kawasan Falls, Whale shark watching in Oslob, and Tumalog Falls - These adventure and nature trips allow visitors to get up close and personal with the region's natural beauty, offering incredible hikes, waterfalls, and marine life encounters.
- Cebu Lechon, Larsian Barbecue, Sugbo Mercado, and IT Park - These food and nightlife hotspots offer a chance to sample some of the best cuisines Cebu has to offer, including its famous roasted pig, street food, and modern dining options.
- SM City Cebu, Ayala Center Cebu, Carbon Market, and Taboan Public Market - These shopping destinations offer a range of options, from luxury malls to bustling markets, for visitors to find unique souvenirs and items.
In conclusion, visiting Cebu Philippines is a must for any travel enthusiast. With its incredible sights and experiences, there's no doubt that Cebu Philippines will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. So pack your bags and get ready to experience one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world!
FAQs
Cebu is known for its rich history and culture, beautiful beaches, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. It is also the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines, with many historical and religious landmarks.
There are several ways to get to Cebu, Philippines, depending on your location and budget. Here are some of the most common options:
1. By Air: The easiest and most convenient way to reach Cebu is by air. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the second-busiest airport in the country and has regular flights from major cities in Asia, as well as direct flights from some cities in Australia and the Middle East.
2. By Sea: Cebu is also accessible by sea. There are regular ferry services from other parts of the Philippines, such as Manila, Bohol, and Dumaguete. You can also take a ferry from nearby countries like Indonesia and Malaysia.
3. By Land: If you're already in the Philippines, you can also reach Cebu by land. There are buses and vans that operate from nearby cities like Dumaguete and Bacolod, as well as from Manila.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, it's important to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season.
To fully enjoy the top attractions and activities in Cebu, it is recommended to stay for at least 4 to 5 days. This will give you enough time to explore the city's historical and cultural sites, beautiful beaches, adventure and nature trips, food and nightlife, and shopping destinations.
Cebu has a variety of transportation options including taxis, jeepneys, buses, and motorcycles. It is also easy to rent a car or motorbike if you prefer to have your own mode of transportation. Traffic can be heavy in some areas during peak hours, but overall transportation is relatively easy to navigate.
Cebu is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any other destination, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious of scams or pickpocketing in crowded areas.
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