Cebu

Cebu, Central Visayas

Cebu

Queen City of the South

AdventureHistoryDivingFood
Best timeDecember - May
Ideal stay5-7 days
Budget / day₱2,000 - ₱5,000
3 days minimum · Dry SeasonPhoto by Kat Carabio (Pexels)
Best timeDecember - May
Duration5-7 days
Budget / day₱2,000 - ₱5,000
From Manila1.5 hour direct
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Overview

The lay of the land

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. It consists of the 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

Highlights

01

Whale shark interaction in Oslob

02

Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls

03

Historic Magellan's Cross and Basilica

04

Beautiful beaches in Moalboal and Mactan

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 monthsDecember - May
SeasonDry Season

Sinulog Festival in January is spectacular but crowded

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What to see

Top attractions

adventure

Oslob Whale Sharks

Swim with gentle whale sharks in the morning

nature

Kawasan Falls

Three-tiered turquoise waterfall with canyoneering

cultural

Magellan's Cross

Historic cross planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521

cultural

Basilica del Santo Niño

Oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines

nature

Moalboal Sardine Run

Millions of sardines forming mesmerizing patterns

landmark

Temple of Leah

Roman-inspired temple with city views

cultural

Simala Shrine

Beautiful castle-like church in Sibonga

nature

Osmena Peak

Highest point in Cebu with stunning views

How to spend the days

Things to do

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Activity

Oslob Whale Shark Tour

Early morning whale shark swimming + Tumalog Falls

Guide price₱2,500-4,000

Activity

Kawasan Canyoneering

Jump off cliffs and swim through canyons

Guide price₱1,500-2,500

Activity

Moalboal Diving

See sardines, turtles, and coral at Pescador Island

Guide price₱2,000-3,500

Activity

Cebu City Heritage Tour

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

Guide price₱500-1,000

Activity

Island Hopping Mactan

Nalusuan, Hilutungan, and Pandanon Islands

Guide price₱1,500-2,500

Activity

Osmena Peak Sunrise

Trek to the highest point for sunrise views

Guide price₱500-1,000

Activity

Bantayan Island Trip

Day trip or overnight to pristine beaches

Guide price₱1,000-2,000

Gallery

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Logistics

Getting there

Nearest airportMactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
From Manila1.5 hour direct flight

Travel options

  • Direct flights from Manila and international destinations
  • Ferry from various Philippine ports
  • Major hub with many domestic connections
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Eat

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

Sleep

Where to stay

Cebu City

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

Nightly range₱1,000-5,000/night

Mactan Island

Beach resorts, near airport, good for short stays

Nightly range₱2,000-15,000/night

Moalboal

Backpacker town, diving, sardines, laid-back vibe

Nightly range₱500-3,000/night

Oslob

Stay near whale sharks, quieter area

Nightly range₱800-2,500/night

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