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Cebu, Philippines

Destination Guide

Cebu

Philippines

Best things to do in Cebu

36 curated attractions in Cebu, Philippines. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

December - May

Average temp

28°C/82°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Take care

About Cebu

Cebu is the Philippines' oldest city, a hub of both history and current tourism. It was the landing site of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, and that moment shaped its place in Philippine history. The city now features a mix of old and new, from the historic Magellan's Marker and the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral to the modern food stalls at Sugbo Mercado. It is a launching point for exploring nearby attractions such as Kawasan Falls and Moalboal’s white beaches. Cebu is also known for its diving scene around Pescador Island and the unique wildlife at the Monfort Bat Sanctuary. The blend of city life and coastal activities makes it a popular choice for both relaxation and adventure, with visitors coming primarily for the beaches and diving opportunities.

Who it's for

Great for beach lovers, divers, and those looking to experience a mix of culture and nature. Not the best choice for travelers seeking a quiet retreat or those who dislike crowds, as the popular spots can get busy.

Getting around

Public transport: Moderate

  • The city centre is walkable, with key attractions within thirty minutes on foot
  • Public transport includes jeepneys and taxis, but expect traffic during peak hours
  • Mactan-Cebu International Airport is about thirty minutes away from downtown
  • Buses to nearby attractions are available but may not follow strict schedules
Casa Gorordo Museum

Casa Gorordo Museum

Historic houses & mansions
Cebu Yacht Club

Cebu Yacht Club

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Moalboal

Moalboal

Beaches
Taoist Temple

Taoist Temple

Buddhist temples & pagodas
Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary

Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary

Wildlife sanctuaries
Mountain View Nature's Park

Mountain View Nature's Park

Mountains & volcanoes
Crocodile Farm

Crocodile Farm

Wildlife sanctuaries
Tops Lookout

Tops Lookout

Scenic viewpoints
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral

Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral

Churches & cathedrals
Pescador Island

Pescador Island

Islands
Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island

Islands
Sirao Flower Garden

Sirao Flower Garden

Botanical gardens
Nalusuan Island

Nalusuan Island

Islands
St. Andrew's Church

St. Andrew's Church

Churches & cathedrals
Mount Apo

Mount Apo

Mountains & volcanoes
Sky Experience Adventure in Crown Regency

Sky Experience Adventure in Crown Regency

Adventure parks
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

Churches & cathedrals
Temple of Leah

Temple of Leah

Monuments & memorials
Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

Wildlife sanctuaries
Kawasan Falls

Kawasan Falls

Waterfalls
Moalboal White Beach

Moalboal White Beach

Beaches
Colon Street

Colon Street

Streets & neighbourhoods
Simala Shrine

Simala Shrine

Churches & cathedrals
Cebu Ocean Park

Cebu Ocean Park

Aquariums
Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro

Forts & citadels
Magellan's Marker

Magellan's Marker

Monuments & memorials
Cebu IT Park

Cebu IT Park

Streets & neighbourhoods
Malapascua Island

Malapascua Island

Islands
Tumalog Falls

Tumalog Falls

Waterfalls
Monfort Bat Sanctuary

Monfort Bat Sanctuary

Wildlife sanctuaries
Yap Sandiego Ancestral House

Yap Sandiego Ancestral House

Historic houses & mansions
Mactan Shrine

Mactan Shrine

Monuments & memorials
Magellan's Cross

Magellan's Cross

Monuments & memorials
Sugbo Mercado

Sugbo Mercado

Food markets & food halls
Cebu Heritage Monument

Cebu Heritage Monument

Monuments & memorials
Lapu-Lapu City Museum

Lapu-Lapu City Museum

History museums

Where to eat in Cebu

The places worth planning a meal around.

10,000 Roses Cafe

10,000 Roses Cafe

Filipino · $

★ 4.1 · 5,709 reviews

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