Cebu City - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Cebu City

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cebu City, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cebu City and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cebu City, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Cebu City for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cebu City

Cebu City is a highly urbanized city located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is the second-largest city in the Philippines and the oldest city in the country, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is a popular tourism destination, drawing visitors with its pristine beaches, diverse marine life, vibrant nightlife, and iconic landmarks such as the Magellan's Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño. Cebu City is also famous for its mouth-watering cuisine, featuring a fusion of Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino flavors. It is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modern conveniences and traditional charm.

What to visit in Cebu City

Certainly, here are some tourist attractions in Cebu City, Philippines with some details about each: 1. Magellan's Cross - This is a significant historical landmark located in Plaza Sugbo, where the Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted a cross on April 21, 1521. 2. Basilica del Santo Niño - This is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines, which was built in 1565 by Spanish explorers. It houses the oldest religious relic in the country, the Santo Niño de Cebú, which is believed to be miraculous. 3. Fort San Pedro - Located in the pier area of Cebu, it is the oldest fort in the Philippines, built in 1565, which has served as a military defense structure, a prison camp, and a hospital. 4. Cebu Taoist Temple - A well-known attraction, it is a Taoist temple built by the Chinese community in Cebu and is an impressive structure with intricate designs and decorations. 5. The Cebu City Zoo - A family-friendly destination, where visitors can see a variety of exotic animals such as tigers, elephants, and lions. 6. Casa Gorordo Museum - A 19th-century heritage house that showcases the lifestyle and culture of the wealthy señor families in Cebu during the Spanish colonial era. 7. Sirao Flower Farms - This is a stunning flower farm that is famous for its vibrant celosia flowers, which bloom in a variety of colors during specific months each year. 8. Taoist Cemetery - An interesting attraction that is worth seeing for its elaborately designed tombs with freshly painted walls and intricate carvings, which represent the Chinese belief that your afterlife is an extension of your current life. 9. Carbon Market- It is the largest public market in Cebu City, it is the go-to place for tourists to acquire products at affordable prices. 10. Temple of Leah - A temple that was built as a tribute to a beloved wife by her husband in 2012. It's a Greco-Roman style structure inspired by the architecture of the famous Greek landmark, the Parthenon.
These are just some of the many tourist attractions in Cebu City that visitors can explore and experience the rich culture and history of the Philippines.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Cebu City.

When to go on holiday to Cebu City

The best time to visit Cebu City is from January to May. This period is dry season in the Philippines, with relatively high temperatures and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. The months of February and April are particularly attractive because of the festivals and events that take place during these months, such as the Sinulog Festival, which celebrates the city's patron saint, Santo Niño. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season in Cebu City, so prices for accommodations and flights may be higher during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cebu City

There are several transportation options to get to Cebu City, Philippines: 1. By air: The easiest and most convenient way is to book a flight to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) which is the second busiest airport in the Philippines. You can find direct flights to Cebu City from many international and domestic destinations.
2. By ferry: If you are traveling to Cebu City from other islands in the Philippines, you can take a ferry from various ports in the country. The most popular ports for ferries going to Cebu City are from Manila, Bohol, Dumaguete, and Leyte.
3. By bus: You can also take a bus to Cebu City from other cities and towns in the Philippines. There are also companies that offer overnight buses from Manila to Cebu City.
Once you arrive in Cebu City, you can take a taxi, jeepney, or bus to get to your destination.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cebu City, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cebu City

Cebu City is known for its delicious food scene that offers a flavorful blend of different cultures. Below are some of the typical foods in Cebu City with a short description for each: 1. Lechon - a whole roasted pig, known for its crispy skin and tender meat, considered by many as the best lechon in the Philippines.
2. Ngohiong - deep-fried roll made with chopped vegetables and meat mixed with flour, wrapped in a spring roll wrapper.
3. Puso - a type of rice cooked inside a woven pouch made of coconut leaves, shaped like a heart.
4. Siomai sa Tisa - a type of dumpling filled with ground pork, shrimp, and water chestnuts, wrapped in wonton wrappers, and served with chili sauce and calamansi.
5. Danggit - dried fish that is typically eaten for breakfast, usually paired with fried rice and eggs.
6. Bantayan Biscocho - a crunchy, sweet snack made from twice-baked bread with butter, sugar, and milk.
7. Rosquillos - a type of cookie made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and milk, with a distinctive ring shape.
8. Utan Bisaya - a vegetable soup made with squash, malunggay leaves, okra, and other vegetables.
9. Chorizo de Cebu - a type of sausage made with ground pork and spices, smoked over wood chips to give it a distinctive flavor.
10. Mangoes - sweet and juicy mangoes are grown in abundance in Cebu City and are a must-try when visiting the city.
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Cebu City an expensive destination for tourists?

Cebu City can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists, as the cost of living in the Philippines is generally lower than other countries. However, tourist hotspots in Cebu City such as luxury hotels, popular restaurants and bars, and entrance fees to attractions can be pricey. It is important to research and compare prices before booking accommodations and activities. Additionally, there are budget-friendly options such as local street food, affordable accommodations, and free or low-cost attractions that can help keep costs down.

Where to find accomodation in Cebu City

For visitors looking for accommodations in Cebu City, the best areas to consider are: 1. Downtown Cebu - the central business district, with easy access to many popular attractions like Magellan's Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro.
2. Mactan Island - an island located just off the coast of Cebu City, known for its beautiful beaches, resorts, and dive spots.
3. Lapu-Lapu City - located on Mactan Island, it's a popular tourist destination with lots of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife spots.
4. Fuente Osmeña - a popular location for backpackers, it's in the center of the city and is surrounded by many restaurants, bars, and shops.
5. Mango Avenue - a bustling area with lots of budget-friendly hotels, bars, and restaurants. It's a popular nightlife destination for both locals and tourists.
You can check hotel prices at Cebu City here:
Booking.com

Is Cebu City a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Cebu City in the Philippines is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, visitors should still exercise caution and take the necessary safety precautions such as avoiding carrying large amounts of valuables and money, staying in well-lit areas, and being aware of their surroundings.
It is also recommended to take a registered taxi or private car service instead of hailing random vehicles on the street. It is advisable to research the areas that you plan to visit and to avoid going there at night.
Overall, the key to safety in Cebu City or any other destination is to be vigilant and cautious while still enjoying all the wonderful experiences that the city has to offer.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cebu City.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cebu City the most?

Cebu City is a destination suitable for different types of travelers and can cater to the needs of couples, young people looking for fun, and families. Here are some reasons why each of these types of travelers might enjoy Cebu City: - Couples: Cebu City has a lot of romantic spots such as the Taoist Temple, Sirao Flower Farm, and the Basilica del Santo Niño. The city also has many resorts and hotels that offer a romantic setting, a variety of restaurants that serve delicious food, and a lively nightlife scene.
- Young people looking for fun: Cebu City has a lot of adventure and fun activities such as water sports, hiking, and island hopping. The city has many bars and nightclubs that cater to party-goers looking for a lively night out.
- Families: Cebu City is an excellent destination for families as it has many attractions suitable for all age groups such as museums, zoos, and aquariums. The city also offers a range of outdoor activities and parks where families can spend quality time together.

How to get around Cebu City

In Cebu City, there are various modes of transportation available for getting around. The most popular modes of transportation include jeepneys, taxis, buses, and motorcycles (locally known as habal-habal). Additionally, there are also ride-hailing services such as Grab and Angkas available in the city. Travellers can choose the transportation they prefer based on their budget and comfort preference.

What to see around Cebu City

Certainly, here are some places that you might like to visit in a day trip from Cebu City in the Philippines: 1. Osmeña Peak - the highest peak in Cebu, where you can enjoy a panoramic view.
2. Moalboal - famous for its beautiful beaches and a great spot for snorkeling and diving.
3. Bantayan Island - one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines with white sand beaches and gorgeous crystal-clear water.
4. Olango Island - a bird sanctuary and a perfect place for bird watching and island hopping.
5. Mactan Island - an island known for water sports activities, white sand beaches and for the historic Magellan's Marker.
6. Sirao Flower Farm - a stunning place filled with colorful flowers that you should definitely add to your itinerary if you love nature and flower gardens.
7. Casa Gorordo Museum - a preserved 19th-century home with great history and beautiful architecture.
I hope that helps!
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