Need help in planning your Cebu itinerary? Check out this comprehensive Cebu Travel Guide Blog with list of things to do in Cebu City, tourist spots and attractions, hotels, and Cebu tour packages with sample Cebu itinerary.
Metro Cebu is a bustling and huge metropolis much like Metro Manila. Rich in history, culture, great-tasting food, and natural wonders, there are many things to do in Cebu that you can enjoy. The province is so big that it would require you several days to really visit most of the famous tourist spots and attractions in Cebu. In this Cebu Travel Guide Blog, I will help you in planning an amazing Cebu itinerary. You can find many places to visit and do many things in (and near) Cebu City. For first-timers, I listed here some of the most popular attractions and things to do in (and near) Metro Cebu.
CEBU TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG 2020 + ITINERARY FOR FIRST-TIMERS
Updated: February 2020In this Cebu Travel Guide Blog 2020, I will give you some useful information on how to get there, top things to do in Cebu, DIY itinerary, hotel recommendations, sample itinerary and more!
HOW TO GET TO CEBU?
As a highly urbanized and developed city, Cebu is well-connected from different parts of the country. To get to Cebu, you can take a flight from Manila or from other key cities in the Philippines - such as Davao, Iloilo, Bacolod, Dumaguete and Puerto Princesa. You may also take a ferry or RORO ship to Cebu from many parts of the country. Check out the wide array of transportation options below:
- Bohol to Cebu
- El Nido to Cebu
- Cagayan De Oro to Cebu
- Ormoc to Cebu
- Iligan to Cebu
- Ozamiz to Cebu
- Bacolod to Cebu
- Iloilo to Cebu
You can also SEARCH ferry schedules and availability below:
HOW TO GET TO CEBU CITY FROM MACTAN-CEBU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?
Cebu City is about an hour away from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA). For ease and convenience in traveling from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Cebu City center, you may book a Private Airport Transfer. Transfers are available 24 hours a day, 7 times a week so you don't have to worry even if you arrive late at night. Get from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to your hotel in no time with a comfortable and safe private transfer. This is ideal for groups because you can split the cost, and it's comfortable transfer especially if you have huge luggage with you or if you're traveling with kids or senior citizens.
How to get around Cebu?
With so much to offer, Cebu is such an amazing city to explore. For a comfortable tour, I recommend that you get a Private Car to visit the best and most popular areas on the island. With a charted car, you can plan your own perfect day and discover Cebu at your own time, schedule, and itinerary. Alternatively, you can explore Cebu City by public transportation - jeepney, bus, habal-habal, Grab car or taxi.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN CEBU + TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS
What to do in Cebu City? Tourist Spots, Attractions and Things To Do and Experience? Here are some of my recommendations:
1. Say a prayer at Basilica del Sto. Niño
Basílica Menor del Santo Niño de Cebú commonly known as the Santo Niño Basilica is located along Osmeña Boulevard and is one of the most famous landmarks in Cebu. It was founded in the 16th century and it is considered as the oldest Roman Catholic Church established in the country. The present church was completed between 1739-1740 and was built on the spot where the image of the Santo Niño de Cebú was found during the expedition of Miguel López de Legazpi. Since then, it has been the home of the Sto. Niño, which is considered as oldest religious relic in the Philippines in honor to the Holy Child Jesus. Outside the church you can buy candles from the candle vendors and they will ask for your family name, then dance to the high heavens while praying for your family. In front of the church is a huge plaza where masses were also held during the celebration of the annual Sinulog Festival.
2. Visit Magellan's Cross
Just a few steps away from Sto. Niño Church is the Magellan's Cross, a symbol of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines. Housed in a chapel, the cross is said to have been planted through the order of Ferdinand Magellan to signify one important event - the propagation of the Roman Catholic faith in the islands. It also symbolizes the colonization of the Philippines on behalf of King Philip II of Spain.
3. Check out the smallest fort in the country, Fort San Pedro
Fort San Pedro (Fuerza de San Pedro ) is a military defense structure which is considered as the oldest and smallest fort in the country. The fort is triangular in shape consisting of three bastions – La Concepcion, San Ignacio de Loyola and San Miguel. It is located in the area now called Plaza Indepedencia, in the Pier Area of Cebu City.
4. Visit Mactan Shrine
Located in Lapu-lapu City, it is a site dedicated in honor of Lapu-Lapu, Ferdinand Magellan, and the Battle of Mactan. A life-sized statue of Lapu Lapu and a painting that depicts the war of Lapu-Lapu against Ferdinand Magellan can be seen here. It is also the site of Kadaugan sa Mactan festival where a re-enactment of the battle is held every 27th of April every year.
Since you're already in Mactan, why not go on an island hopping tour? Start your island hopping adventure with a nice snorkeling session in Hilutungan Marine reserve. Swim with some tropical fishes and observe some big jack fishes passing by. Enjoy a short swim near the marine reserve of Nalusuan. Relish in a delicious lunch by Pandanon Island.
5. Shop for Pasalubong and Souvenirs at Tabo-an Market
Located in downtown Cebu City, Tabo-an market is the haven for dried danggit, tuyo, squid and dilis, to name a few. Here, you could also find other Cebu delicacies such as dried mangoes, otap, among many others.
READ ALSO: Top Best Hotels and Resorts in Cebu
6. Get an adrenaline rush at Sky Experience Adventure
If you're seeking for great adventures within the city, go to Crown Regency Hotel and Towers near Fuente Osmeña. Here, you could try heart-pounding activities such as Edge Coaster, Tower Walk, Urban Zipline and Vertical Climb.
7. Visit the stunning Cebu Provincial Capitol Building
Located in Osmena Blvd., Cebu City, this is the seat of the Provincial government of Cebu.
8. Relieve history by visiting the Heritage of Cebu Monument
Located along the oldest street in the Philippines, Colon Street in Cebu City, it showcases the significant events in the history of Cebu. The monument was done by National Artist Edgardo Castrillo.
9. Pres. Sergio Osmeña Museum
Located along Osmeña Blvd., the ancestral house of Pres. Sergio Osmeña is part of the facility now owned by CAP Educational Plan. Inside, is like a museum that displays old photos and clothes, memorabilia and many things owned by the former president who hails from Cebu. Built in the 1950's, this house where President Osmeña retired after his political defeat against Senator Manuel Roxas.
Address: CAP Building, Osmeña Blvd., Sambag II; Cebu City
Telephone: +63 32 416 4932
Admission Fee: Free
10. Cebu Taoist Temple
Located inside the posh Beverly Hills Subdivision in Cebu City, the Cebu Toaist Temple was built in 1972 for Cebu's substantial Chinese community. A must visit place if you are in Cebu, a beautiful piece of oriental culture. It has several lush gardens, plenty of benches and space to relax or reflect and not too crowded. It's beautiful, quiet, and serene place with an outstanding view of the city.
Address: Beverly Hills, Cebu City
Admission Fee: Free
Note: Picture taking of the gods and statutes inside of the temples are not allowed.
11. Sirao Flower Gardens
Sirao Flower Garden or Sirao Flower Farm is most popular for their beautiful flower gardens. It has many picturesque spots, flower gardens and you could take as many Instagram-worthy shots as you want. Located on a hilltop overlooking the beautiful sceneries of mountains and hills, every corner of these beautiful gardens will surely be enjoyed by everyone.
There are two Sirao Flower Gardens in Cebu. One is the Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site (PGCS) and the other one is the first Sirao Flower Garden located near the PGCS.
NOTES:
The first Sirao Flower Garden is open from 06:00 am to 06:30 pm, admission fee is PHP 100 per person. While the Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site is open from 06:00 am to 06:30 pm for all visitors and 6:30 pm to 6:30 am for overnight campers. Entrance fee is PHP 50.00 per person.
For ease and convenience, you may avail a Celosia Flower Farm and Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary Half Day Tour that covers a visit to Sirao Flower Farm.
12. Temple of Leah
Cebu City's Temple of Leah is a symbol of undying love of husband Teodorico Soriano Adarna (grandfather of Filipino actress Ellen Adarna) to his wife Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. Located on top of the hill in barangay Busay in Cebu City, this grand temple is one of Cebu's newest tourist attractions. Built in 2012, it has a Roman Architecture design with a museum, an art gallery, collections from her travels, and a library where all of the favorite things her wife owned are placed.
The temple offers great views from the top of the hills overlooking Cebu City. It's definitely one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Cebu City!
Please take note of the following fees and opening hours:
Opening hours: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm daily
Admission fee: ₱50.00 per person
Parking fee: ₱100.00 inside the premises
Contact number: (032) 233-5032
13. Terrazas de Flores
Located in Busay Cebu City, Terrazas de Flores is a nice botanical garden with beautiful rows of gardens with more than 120 species of plants and flowers planted on terraces that was carved off the hill. It also has a small cafe where guests could grab a bite while enjoying the lovely and serene surroundings.
It's a peaceful and romantic place perfect for couples or families wanting to experience serenity, relaxation, to reconnect with nature or escape the busy metropolis.
Opening hours: 08:00 am to 12:00 mn
Admission fee: ₱100 per person
Contact number: 0917 653 4227
14. Go on a Food Trip
Eat to your heart’s content and worry about your diet after. Don't miss Cebu's famous lechon, kansi and sutukil. Also, visit Larsian and sample on Cebu’s street food paired with their "puso" (rice wrapped and cooked in palm leaves) and enjoy Cebu food trip at its best!
For ease and convenience, you may also join a Cebu Street Food Half Day Tour that will let you enjoy gastronomical adventure and discover the hidden food gems around the city that most tourists don’t know about.
15. Go on a Day Trip outside Metro Cebu
There are indeed so many tourist spots and attractions that you can enjoy, even outside Metro Cebu. From the city, you can go on a day trip to Osmeña Peak in the town of Dalaguete, Mt. Manunggal in Balamban, chase the waterfalls of Kawasan in Badian or the Mantayupan Falls in Barili. You love old churches and structures, you can visit the churches in Carcar, Boljoon, Oslob, and Argao, and even the pilgrimage site of Simala Shrine in Sibonga. If you're looking for an amazing tropical getaway, go to the beaches of Moalboal, Alcoy, Mactan, or Badian. All these can be done on a day tour from Metro Cebu. Read more here.
There are really a lot of things you can do and experience when visiting Cebu. I highly suggest that you visit these tourist spots and attractions and make your first Cebu trip a memorable one.
TRAVEL TIP:If you're looking for cheap and affordable Cebu City Tour, I highly recommend a Cebu City Private Day Tour with Simala Shrine which covers a visit to the top tourist spots and attractions in Cebu. Such as the Magellan's Cross, Basilica del Sto Nino, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, Taoist Temple, Temple of Leah, Sirao Flower Farm and Simala Shrine. Tour rate starts at ₱ 1,065 pesos per person for a group of 8 pax. |
Sample Cebu Itinerary (3 Days and 2 Nights)
You can use this sample 3 days and 2 nights Cebu itinerary in planning your own trip to Cebu. Feel free to adjust it depending on the things you want to do and on the tourist spots and attractions in Cebu you want to visit.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL + CEBU CITY TOUR PART 1
- Arrival at Cebu-Mactan International Airport (MCIA)
- Travel from MCIA to Cebu City
- Check-in at the Hotel
- Lunch
- Cebu City Tour
- Basilica del Sto. Niño
- Magellan's Cross
- Fort San Pedro
- Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
- Dinner
- Sky Experience Adventure at Crown Regency Hotel & Towers
- 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
- Lunch
- Enjoy Sirao Flower Gardens
- Visit Temple of Leah
- Shop for pasalubong and souvenirs at Tabo-an Market
- Dinner
- Chill and relax at Mango Square
- Back at the hotel
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
- Lunch
- Hotel check-out
- Proceed to Mactan
- Explore Mactan Shrine
- Go to Mactan-Cebu International Airport
- Dinner
- Departure
√ For ease and convenience, you may avail a Private Cebu Rediscovery Tour or a Private Cebu & Mactan Twin City Tour in exploring Cebu. See other Cebu Tour Packages below.
Cebu to Bohol by Ferry
If you wish to visit Bohol from Cebu, I highly suggest that you book a Cebu-Bohol OceanJet Ferry Ticket in advance.
- Experience hassle-free booking and a fast ferry ride between Cebu and Bohol
- Go on the easiest and most comfortable way to access the two major tourist destinations in the Visayas region
- Travel via OceanJet, one of the most reputable ferry operators in the Philippines
- With a wide variety of departures daily, you can choose a departure time that perfectly fits your schedule
For hassle-free and organized Bohol Tour, I recommend that you book a Sight-see Bohol Day Tour from trusted and reputable travel agency.
Sight-see Bohol Day Tour
- Catch a glimpse of the world's smallest primate - the tarsier!
- Take a cruise along the Loboc River while eating delicious local food
- Stand in awe as you visit Bohol's famous Chocolate Hills
- Visit a colorful butterfly sanctuary and stroll through a lush forest
- Hotel transfers, guide services, ferry tickets and lunch are all included in the tour
Sample Cebu to Bohol Day Tour Itinerary:
- 07:00 am approx. hotel pick up time
- 09:20 am ferry transfer to Tagbilaran
- 11:20 am arrive at Tagbilaran Port
- 11:45 am view famous Tarsiers
- 12:30 pm lunch at the Loboc river cruise
- 01:30 pm see the famous Chocolate Hills
- 02:30 pm sightsee at Bilar man-made forest, Butterfly Sanctuary
- 03:30 pm visit Baclayon Church and Museum and Blood Compact Monument
- 05:00 pm end of tour
- 05:30 pm return ferry back to Cebu
- 07:30 pm arrive back in Cebu, hotel drop off
Where to Stay in Cebu City?
Cebu City has a wide array of affordable and high quality hotels, guest/pension houses, hostel and inns for you to stay in! Here are my recommended accommodations in Cebu City that I have personally stayed at:
Please click the hotel name to read my full review
- Citadines Cebu City [ BOOK HERE! ]
Baseline Center, Juana Osmena Street,, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines, 6000 - The Henry Hotel [ BOOK HERE! ]
No. 1 Paseo Saturnino, Ma. Luisa Road Banilad Cebu City - The Center Suites [ BOOK HERE! ]
Brgy. Camputhaw, Gonzales Compd., Escario Street, Cebu City - Summit Circle Hotel [ BOOK HERE! ]
Corner F. Ramos St. & General Maxilom Avenue, Cebu City (Near Fuente Osmeña) - Red Planet Cebu [ BOOK HERE! ]
#36, Archbishop Reyes Ave, Cebu City, Philippines, 6000
READ ALSO: Top Best Hotels and Resorts in Cebu
Cebu Tour Packages
If you're looking for tour packages in Cebu, you may check out the following. Getting a Cebu Tour Packages free you of the nitty gritty and tedious task of traveling planning, learning how to get there, and creating your itinerary. Here are some of the cheap and affordable tour packages in Cebu.
- Cebu Kawasan Waterfalls & Osmena Peak Day Tour
- Private Cebu Rediscovery Tour
- Badian Canyoneering Adventure and Kawasan Waterfalls Private Tour
- Pescador Island Snorkeling Private Tour
- Mactan Island Hopping Tour
- Private Cebu & Mactan Twin City Tour
- Celosia Flower Farm and Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary Half Day Tour
- Mactan 3 in 1 Water Activities
- Kalanggaman Island Tour from Cebu
- Cebu Luxury Sunset Cruise
- Pescador Island Snorkeling Join In Day Tour from Cebu
- Badian Canyoneering Adventure and Kawasan Waterfalls Join In Day Tour from Cebu
- Sight-see Bohol Day Tour
READ MORE HERE: Cheap and Affordable Tour Packages in Cebu
Want more? For more amazing guided tours and exciting day trips in or from Cebu - PLEASE CLICK HERE. |
Note: This article was first published on August 2013 and republished on September 2018. Last updated on February 2020.
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