Cebu
Cebu, Central Visayas

Cebu

Queen City of the South

AdventureHistoryDivingFood
Best Time
December - May
Duration
5-7 days
Budget/Day
₱2,000 - ₱5,000
From Manila
1.5 hour direct
Plan Trip with AI

Overview

Cebu is the oldest city in the Philippines, offering a perfect blend of rich history, vibrant city life, and stunning natural attractions. From swimming with whale sharks in Oslob to chasing waterfalls in the south, and canyoneering in Kawasan, Cebu has something for everyone.

Cebu, officially the Province of Cebu, is a province of the Philippines located in the Central Visayas (Region VII) region, and consists of a main island and 167 surrounding islands and islets. The coastal zone of Cebu is identified as a site of highest marine biodiversity importance in the Coral Triangle.

Read more on Wikipedia
Travel Guide

There's more than one place called Cebu:

Full travel guide on Wikivoyage
Whale shark interaction in Oslob
Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls
Historic Magellan's Cross and Basilica
Beautiful beaches in Moalboal and Mactan

Top Attractions

Oslob Whale Sharks

Swim with gentle whale sharks in the morning

Kawasan Falls

Three-tiered turquoise waterfall with canyoneering

Magellan's Cross

Historic cross planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521

Basilica del Santo Niño

Oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines

Moalboal Sardine Run

Millions of sardines forming mesmerizing patterns

Temple of Leah

Roman-inspired temple with city views

Simala Shrine

Beautiful castle-like church in Sibonga

Osmena Peak

Highest point in Cebu with stunning views

Things to Do

Sponsored
Cebu Ocean Adventures

Cebu Ocean Adventures

Whale Shark & Canyoneering

Most Popular

All-in-one South Cebu adventure! Oslob whale sharks, Kawasan canyoneering, and Tumalog Falls in one epic day.

4.9 (2341)
₱3,500 - ₱5,000Book Adventure

Oslob Whale Shark Tour

Early morning whale shark swimming + Tumalog Falls

₱2,500-4,000

Kawasan Canyoneering

Jump off cliffs and swim through canyons

₱1,500-2,500

Moalboal Diving

See sardines, turtles, and coral at Pescador Island

₱2,000-3,500

Cebu City Heritage Tour

Magellan's Cross, Basilica, Fort San Pedro, Colon Street

₱500-1,000

Island Hopping Mactan

Nalusuan, Hilutungan, and Pandanon Islands

₱1,500-2,500

Osmena Peak Sunrise

Trek to the highest point for sunrise views

₱500-1,000

Bantayan Island Trip

Day trip or overnight to pristine beaches

₱1,000-2,000

Photo Gallery

Ad
Klook Philippines

Klook Philippines

Discover and book amazing experiences across the Philippines. Best price guaranteed!

Explore Deals

Getting There

Nearest Airport
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
From Manila
1.5 hour direct flight
Travel Options
  • Direct flights from Manila and international destinations
  • Ferry from various Philippine ports
  • Major hub with many domestic connections
Loading map...

Local Food

Lechon Cebu

The best roasted pig in the Philippines - try Zubuchon or Rico's

Sutukil

Sugba (grill), Tuwa (soup), Kilaw (ceviche) seafood combo

Puso

Hanging rice wrapped in coconut leaves

Dried Mangoes

Cebu's famous dried mango - 7D brand is iconic

Where to Stay

Cebu City

₱1,000-5,000/night

Urban hotels, malls, restaurants, good base for south trips

Mactan Island

₱2,000-15,000/night

Beach resorts, near airport, good for short stays

Moalboal

₱500-3,000/night

Backpacker town, diving, sardines, laid-back vibe

Oslob

₱800-2,500/night

Stay near whale sharks, quieter area

Featured Partner
Plantation Bay Resort

Plantation Bay Resort

Mactan Island Paradise

Award-winning resort with the largest lagoon pool in the Philippines. Perfect for families and couples.

4.7 (2,156 reviews)
Lagoon PoolWater SportsMultiple Restaurants

₱8,000 - ₱25,000/night

Check Rates

Weather Forecast

Travel Tips

  • Start Oslob whale shark tour by 6am to avoid crowds
  • Do canyoneering before Oslob (you'll be tired after jumping)
  • Lechon is best at lunch - go to Carcar or Zubuchon
  • Rent a scooter in Moalboal for flexibility
  • Bring reef shoes for canyoneering and waterfalls
  • Sardine run is best experienced while freediving
  • Book South Cebu tours via Cebu City for convenience

Best Time to Visit

Recommended Months
December - May
Season
Dry Season

Sinulog Festival in January is spectacular but crowded

Ready to explore Cebu?

Let our AI help you plan the perfect itinerary

Plan My Trip
Built byPixelmojo