Cebu

Philippines, Asia

Cebu, known as the 'Queen City of the South,' offers a harmonious blend of urban and natural beauty. Famous for its stunning beaches like Malapascua and Moalboal, it also boasts rich history with landmarks such as Magellan's Cross and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Adventurers can explore breathtaking waterfalls like Kawasan Falls or dive with magnificent sardine runs. Vibrant local culture, delicious lechon, and lively festivals like Sinulog make Cebu an irresistible destination for travelers looking for excitement and relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Mactan

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Cebu

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kawasan Falls

Swim in stunning turquoise waterfalls and canyoneer!

Booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Magellan's Cross

See the historic cross planted by Magellan in 1521.

No booking required
3

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel in Moalboal

Discover vibrant coral reefs and sea turtles.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Basilica del Santo Niño

Admire the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go to Oslob for Whale Sharks

Swim with gentle giants in Oslob's waters.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike Osmeña Peak

Climb the highest peak in Cebu for breathtaking views.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Carbon Market

Experience local culture and buy fresh produce.

No booking required
8

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Malapascua Island

Enjoy pristine beaches and diving experiences.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Taoist Temple

Explore a serene temple with stunning views.

No booking required
10

Est. 8 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend Sinulog Festival

Join the lively festival celebrating Cebu's patron saint.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Lechon

Savor Cebu's famous roasted pig dish.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Explore Sirao Flower Farm

Wander through vibrant flower gardens and take photos.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Fort San Pedro

Explore the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-7 (#118 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Philippine Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Filipino

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Adobo

Marinated meat stew, savory and tangy. (National dish)

Sinigang

Sour soup with meat and vegetables.

Lechon

Roasted whole pig, crispy skin.

Kare-Kare

Peanut stew with oxtail and vegetables.

Sisig

Sizzling pork dish with spices and egg.

Phrases to learn

English

Filipino

Hello

Kamusta

(Ka-moo-stah)

Yes/No

Oo / Hindi

(Oh-oh / Hin-dee)

Thank you

Salamat

(Sah-lah-maht)

Excuse me

Paumanhin

(Pow-man-hin)

How much?

Magkano?

(Mag-kah-noh)