CEBU TRAVEL GUIDE: Where to Stay, Eat, Must-Visit Destinations, and Itinerary
The ultimate guide to the Queen City of the South.
by Ina Louise Manto | July 12, 2024
Cebu remains one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. In fact, it welcomed over 941,000 tourists in 2023, according to data from the Department of Tourism.
It’s also the perfect destination to experience a taste of a Philippine tropical getaway with its pristine beaches and attractions. Mixed with its delectable cuisine and ease of getting around, there’s no wonder why Cebu is still popular for both local and foreign travelers.
If you’re planning to visit the Queen City of the South and are looking for things to do in Cebu, we’ve got you covered with this guide:
Cebu Travel Guide Table of Contents
How to go to Cebu from Manila
By Air
Flying by air is the most common way to get to Cebu, as the journey only takes an hour and 20 minutes. Airfare can be affordable, too, as seat sales are held throughout the year. Just keep your eyes peeled!
By Ferry
Going to Cebu via ferry is more common if you’re coming from neighboring Visayan provinces like Negros, Dumaguete, and Bohol. But if you want to take the longer route and you’re willing to travel approximately 22 hours, operators like 2GO have trips that start at PHP1,655 (net fare) for a Mega Value Class ticket.
How to get around Cebu
Cebu offers a variety of public transportation. It all comes down to your preference.
- Taxi
- Grab
- Jeepney
- Tricycle
- Habal-habal
How to get to the city from the airport
There are P2P buses that transport passengers from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to SM City Cebu for PHP 50 each. This mode of transportation is perfect if you want to save up and have time to spare before your hotel check-in.
If you will be arriving in the wee hours, you can ride an airport taxi, arrange a hotel transfer, or book a Grab ride.
Where to stay in Cebu: Luxury, Mid-range, and Affordable Hotels in Cebu
Luxury
Fili Hotel, NUSTAR Resort & Casino
Location: Kawit Island, South Road Properties, Cebu City
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If you’re looking for the ultimate luxurious stay in Cebu, the newly opened NUSTAR Hotel is the place to be. Fili Hotel is closer to the city than other five-star hotels in Cebu, and nearby establishments like SM Seaside City Cebu, Ocean Park, and Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.
Rates: Starts at PHP11,662 per night for a Deluxe Twin room
Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu
Location: Punta Engaño Rd, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City
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You can enjoy the best of Thai hospitality without leaving the country when you book a stay in Dusit Thani Mactan. This hotel is closer to the airport, which is just a nearly 30-minute drive. It’s farther than the city since it’s in Mactan, but this hotel is perfect if you’re flying to Cebu for a staycation and want to enjoy the beach.
Rates: Starts at PHP9,201 per night for a Deluxe Room Twin
Radisson Blu
Location: Serging Osmena Boulevard, Corner Pope John Paul II Ave, Cebu City
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Radisson Blu Hotel is a five-star stay in the heart of the city. If you plan on doing a city tour, it’s one of the best luxury hotels to book since it’s nearby establishments like SM City Cebu and tourist destinations like Magellan’s Cross. After all, Radisson is the leading luxury hotel in Cebu.
Rates: Starts at PHP6,645 per night for a Deluxe Room
Seda Ayala Center Cebu
Location: Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City
Rates: Starts at PHP5,550 per night for a Deluxe Room
Mid-range
Castle Peak Hotel
Location: F. Cabahug Corner President Quezon Streets, Villa Aurora, Barangay Mabolo, Cebu City
Castle Peak Hotel is located in Cebu’s commercial district, just a 30-minute drive from the airport. It’s also just a 15-minute drive from Asiatown and Ayala Center. Some amenities include an in-house restaurant, a bar, and a spa.
Rates: Starts at PHP1,600 per night for a Grand Superior Double Room
HOP INN Cebu City
Location: Lot 5 and 6 Block 20, Samar Loop, Cebu City
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Find the seventh Hop Inn Hotel in the Philippines in the heart of Queen City of the South’s commercial district. They offer affordable stays, perfect for travelers who don’t want to skimp on comfort and style without breaking the bank.
Rates: Starts at PHP1,900 per night for a Standard Double Room
bai Hotel Cebu
Location: City South Special Economic Administrative Zone, Mandaue City
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This independent hotel is located between Mandaue and Cebu City, offering city and harbor views. It caters to leisure and business travelers and offers facilities perfect for these types of travelers.
Rates: Starts at PHP3,445 per night for a Deluxe Room
Affordable
Murals Hostel and Cafe
Location: Kasambangan, Cebu City
Budget-friendly rates and an artsy space – these are just some of what Murals Hostel and Cafe offers. At under PHP1k a night, you already have a comfortable bed, which you will share with others. Hostels are perfect for meeting new friends, especially if you plan to solo travel.
Rates: Starts at PHP647per night in a 6-bed Dormitory Room
The Flying Fish Hostel
Location: 8-10 Adelfa Street, El Dorado Subdivision, Banilad, Cebu City
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Are you planning to travel with your barkada but don’t want to break the bank on accommodation? Nestled in the city, The Flying Fish Hostel offers both dorm-type and private rooms. This boutique hostel prides itself on Filipino hospitality, and it has spaces that are also suited for digital nomads.
Rates: Starts at Php847 per night in an 8-bed Dormitory Room
Mad Monkey Cebu City
Location: 79 Echavez St., Cebu City
Known as a party hostel with many branches across the globe, Mad Monkey Cebu City is the place to be for folks who would love to grow their network, have a good time, and try healthy, sumptuous meals.
Rates: Starts at PHP387 per night for a Standard 8-Bed Room
Things to Do in Cebu: Must-Visit Cebu Tourist Spots
Cebu City Tourist Spots
If you have limited time to explore Cebu City, there are still plenty of tourist spots nearby, most of which are free to visit. Each Cebu tourist spot is conveniently located within the city, making it easy for you to plan your visit.
Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu
Location: Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City
Catholicism was first introduced to the Philippines in 1521, and Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu is the oldest church in the province. The Santo Niño Basilica is home to the oldest religious relic in the country, which honors the Holy Child Jesus. In addition to lighting candles and hearing mass, you can explore the church’s grounds and view religious artifacts.
Entrance fee: Free
Magellan’s Cross
Location: Burgos Street, Cebu City
Hit two birds with one stone when you visit the Basilica. The Magellan’s Cross is the first landmark you’ll see before you enter the church, so don’t forget to snap a photo and admire the paintings on its ceiling.
Entrance fee: Free
Fort San Pedro
Location: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City
Feel like you’ve traveled back in time when you tour Fort San Pedro, an old military fortress built during the Spanish colonial era. It is the oldest triangular bastion in the Philippines.
Entrance fee: PHP 30
National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu
Location: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City
Nestled just a stone’s throw from Fort San Pedro, the newly opened National Museum of the Philippines—Cebu features exhibitions that capture the province’s culture and heritage, diverse biodiversity, art, and archeological treasures.
Entrance fee: Free
Mactan Shrine
Location: Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
Continue your historical tour around Cebu City and visit Mactan Shrine, where you’ll find a gigantic statue of Lapu-Lapu.
Entrance fee: Free
Yap-San Diego Ancestral House
Location: 155 Mabini St, Cebu City
The Yap-San Diego Ancestral House is one of the oldest houses in the Philippines. It was built in 1675 using different types of wood and coral stone. It has withstood wars and natural disasters, and it was only opened to the public in 2008. Inside, you’ll find portraits of the family, religious artifacts, art, and furniture dating from the Spanish colonial era.
Entrance fee: PHP 100 for adults
Opening hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM
Cebu Taoist Temple
Location: Dona Modesta Singson Gaisano, Cebu City
The Chinese community built the Cebu Taoist Temple in 1972, which is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Its facade is inspired by the Great Wall of China and is the center of worship for followers of Lao Zi’s teachings.
Entrance fee: Free
Opening hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
Cebu Ocean Park
Location: SM Seaside Complex, F. Vestil St, Cebu City
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If you’re looking for a fun and educational place for your kids, bring them to Cebu Ocean Park. Enjoy live shows, free diving experience, and more. They also offer a dining experience with one of their gigantic aquariums as your background!
Entrance fee: PHP 590 online
Opening hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
Sirao Garden
Also known as Little Amsterdam, Sirao Garden is perfect for tourists who love taking photos amidst rows of colorful blooms – 1.2 hectares to be exact. It overlooks a stunning view of the mountains, with various art installations perfect for picture-taking. According to its official page, its location is the second garden from Ayala Heights.
Entrance fee: PHP 120
Opening hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
Temple of Leah
Location: Cebu Transcentral Hwy, Cebu City
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Also known as the Taj Mahal of Cebu, the Temple of Leah was built by Teodorico Soriano Adarna for his late wife, Leah V. Albino-Adarna. This landmark is located in the hills of Busay and offers a panoramic view of the city. It boasts columns and granite floors that are inspired by Roman architecture.
Entrance fee: PHP 150
Opening hours: Open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM
Northern Cebu Tourist Spots
Bantayan Island
Nestled on the northernmost tip of Cebu, Bantayan Island is a tropical destination and a site to behold. It’s brimming with white sand beaches, diving spots, crystal blue waters, and great seafood. Coming from Cebu City, it’s going to take a long road trip and a ferry ride, but trust that it’s all going to be worth it once you arrive in Santa Fe.
Cebu Safari and Adventure Park
Location: Carmen, Cebu
In addition to interacting with animals, Cebu Safari offers a cave that guests can explore. They also offer a safari staycation package, which is perfect if you have a few days to spare and want to slow down your travels.
Entrance fee: PHP 1,000 for adults on weekdays, PHP1,200 for adults on weekends and holidays
Opening hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
Paharuhay Campsite
Location: Central Nautical Hwy, Caduawan, Tabogon, Cebu
If you’ve got an extra night or two and plan on exploring farther destinations in the north, try experiencing the highland views at Paharuhay Campsite. It’s also a quick drive to Maayo San Remigio, a white beach resort destination.
Entrance fee: PHP 3,000 a night for 10 people
Opening hours: Open daily
Southern Cebu Tourist Spots
Sumilon Island
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Did you know that there are a number of picturesque sandbars around Cebu? One of which is located on the southern tip of the island, Sumilon Island. It will take four to five hours to drive from Cebu City and a 7 to 10-minute boat ride to Sumilon. Since it’s an exclusive location, you can book a day tour online or stay at Blue Water Sumilon Resort for a night or two.
Moalboal Sardines Run
Location: Panagsama Beach, Moalboal, Cebu
Ever wondered what it’s like to swim with sardines and witness turtles along the way? Going on a Sardines Run in Moalboal is one of the best experiences in Southern Cebu. While diving is free, you can use a tour package to experience neighboring travel destinations. If you plan on doing a DIY itinerary instead, you can ride a bus from Cebu to Moalboal. Upon arrival, you have to pay a PHP100 environmental fee. You can also rent snorkeling gear for PHP 200.
Entrance fee: Free of charge
Opening hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 3 PM
Kawasan Falls
Location: Badian, Cebu
Whether you want to try a thrill-filled adventure or simply wish to see its famous blue waters, a trip to Kawasan Falls is a must-try in Cebu. You can book a tour provider to guide you with cliff-jumping and canyoneering activities or take a three-hour bus ride from the city. Don’t forget to pack the proper gear if you plan on canyoneering!
Entrance fee: PHP 200 per guest for swimming
Opening hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM
Osmena Peak
Location: Mantalongon, Dalaguete, Cebu
Nestled 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmena Peak is the highest mountain in Cebu. It’s also known for hills that resemble Bohol’s Chocolate Hills. While you have the option to go for the usual hike and pass by small villages and enjoy scenic views, you can go for the faster route and hire a habal-habal or motorbike to the summit. You only need to go on a short hike from the drop-off point. You can also rent wooden sticks to help you with the hike. Once you get there, you’ll be treated to a 360-degree view of neighboring hills, the sea, and a view of nearby provinces: Bohol and Negros.
Entrance fee: PHP30 hiking fee
Opening hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
Where to eat in Cebu
Cebu Pasalubong: Famous Cebu delicacies and products to bring home
Where can you buy the best pasalubong in Cebu?
You can easily purchase them in malls, groceries, and souvenir shops, but the best bang for the buck location would have to be at Taboan Public Market. Here, you can buy treats and delicacies in bulk, and store owners will gladly pack them for easier check-in. You can buy mostly delicacies here, from the all-time favorite otap to dried fish.
Pro-tip: Be ready to bring an extra shirt, as the fishy smell will stick to your clothing.
What to do in Cebu: Sample 3 Days 2 Nights Cebu Tourist Spots Itinerary
This sample itinerary is ideal for long weekends. On the second day, we recommend joining a group tour as well, so you can travel to the pick-up point, enjoy the day, and return to the city in a timely manner. Check out this Badian and Canyoneering Tour, which you can book for PHP3,472 each for a group of 10.
For Day Two: If you will not avail of a packaged day tour, you need to wake up early and head to Cebu’s South Bus Terminal at around 5 AM since the travel time to popular tourist destinations like Kawasan Falls will be around three hours. The bus will drop you off right at the entrance of Kawasan Falls, and you can avail of a package if you want to go canyoneering.
For Day Three: We recommend hiring a private driver since these locations are in the highlands, and you might find it difficult to hail public transportation. There are also taxi drivers that offer a “private tour” for a set fee. Haggle justly!
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 AM | Arrival, breakfast at airport | South Cebu day tour | Breakfast at hotel |
| 9 AM | Travel to SM Cebu via P2P bus | Sirao Garden | |
| 10 AM | Arrival at SM, leave luggage at Traveler’s Lounge | ||
| 11 AM | Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño | Temple of Leah | |
| 12 NN | Lunch at House of Lechon | Lunch at TOPS | |
| 1 PM | |||
| 2 PM | Hotel check-in | Yap-San Diego Ancestral House | |
| 3 PM | Fort San Pedro | ||
| 4 PM | National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu | Return to Cebu City | Cebu Taoist Temple |
| 5 PM | Taboan Market | ||
| 6 PM | Dinner at Larsian | ||
| 7 PM | Arrival, dinner at Sugbo Mercado | Drive to airport | |
| 8 PM | |||
| 9 PM | Lights off | Lights off | Travel to Manila |
Cebu Tourist Spot Map
