Cebu

Cebu is a province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, located in the eastern portion of the Visayas. It is composed of the main island of Cebu and 167 surrounding islands and islets. It is the second-most populous province in the Philippines and a significant economic center.

The province is known for its rich history and culture, including its role in the Spanish colonial period, which is evident in its historical sites such as the Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the Basilica del Santo Nino. Cebu is also a popular tourist destination, with its stunning beaches, dive spots, and vibrant nightlife.

The province's capital city, Cebu City, is a bustling metropolis that serves as the region's economic and cultural hub. It is home to several universities, shopping centers, and a thriving business district.

The local cuisine is also a must-try, with popular dishes such as lechon (roast pig), danggit (dried fish), and chorizo de Cebu. The province is also famous for its handmade guitars, which are considered some of the best in the country.

Cebu offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that cater to both locals and tourists, making it a must-visit destination in the Philippines.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cebu is between December to May when the weather is generally dry and sunny. This is the peak tourist season, and you can expect many visitors during this time. The months of June to November are considered the rainy season, with the most rainfall occurring in August and September.

However, even during the rainy season, it is still possible to visit Cebu, as the rains are usually brief and intermittent. The advantage of visiting during the rainy season is that the prices of accommodations and tours are often lower, and there are fewer crowds.

If you are planning to visit Cebu for specific events, such as the Sinulog Festival in January or the Kadaugan sa Mactan in April, make sure to book your accommodations and flights in advance, as these events attract many visitors from all over the world.

The best time to visit Cebu depends on your preferences and travel plans. Whether you prefer the peak season with its vibrant energy or the quieter, off-season months, Cebu has something to offer for everyone.

Best things to see and do

Cebu offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Cebu:

Explore historical sites - 

Visit the Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the Basilica del Santo Niño, which are all important historical landmarks in Cebu.

Go island hopping - 

Cebu has many beautiful islands and islets surrounding it. Take a boat tour and visit islands such as Malapascua Island, Bantayan Island, and Mactan Island.

Visit the Taoist Temple - 

The Taoist Temple is a beautiful and tranquil place of worship located in Cebu City. Visitors can climb its 81 steps and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

Try the local cuisine - 

Cebu is known for its delicious local cuisine, such as lechon (roast pig), danggit (dried fish), and chorizo de Cebu.

Go to the beach - 

Cebu has many beautiful beaches, including the white sand beaches of Badian and Moalboal.

Visit the Cebu City Zoo - 

The Cebu City Zoo is home to many exotic animals, such as tigers, crocodiles, and primates.

Experience the Sinulog Festival - 

The Sinulog Festival is a colorful and vibrant celebration held in January in honor of the Santo Niño. It features street parties, parades, and live music.

Dive or snorkel - 

Cebu is a great destination for diving and snorkeling, with many dive sites, such as Moalboal, Oslob, and Malapascua Island.

Shop at the local markets - 

Visit the Carbon Market and Taboan Market in Cebu City for a unique shopping experience and a chance to buy local products.

Visit the Mactan Shrine - 

The Mactan Shrine is a historical landmark located in Lapu-Lapu City, commemorating the Battle of Mactan and the heroism of Lapu-Lapu.

Where to shop

Cebu is a bustling city in the Philippines with plenty of shopping options for both locals and tourists. Here are some popular places to shop in Cebu:

Ayala Center Cebu: This is a large shopping mall located in the heart of Cebu City. It features a wide range of local and international brands, as well as restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment options.

SM City Cebu: Another popular shopping mall in Cebu, SM City Cebu is one of the largest malls in the city. It has a huge selection of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Carbon Market: For a more authentic shopping experience, head to Carbon Market. It is one of the oldest and largest markets in Cebu, offering a wide range of goods including fresh produce, meat, seafood, and handicrafts.

Robinsons Galleria Cebu: This is a newer mall located in the North Reclamation Area of Cebu City. It has a good mix of local and international brands, as well as restaurants and entertainment options.

Taboan Public Market: If you're looking to buy dried fish or other seafood products, Taboan Public Market is the place to go. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

SM Seaside City Cebu: This is the largest mall in Cebu, located in the South Road Properties area. It has a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, as well as a large indoor ice skating rink.

These are just a few of the many shopping options in Cebu. Happy shopping!

Where to stay

Cebu has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular areas to stay in Cebu:

Cebu City: This is the largest city in the region and the hub of business, culture, and entertainment. It has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.

Mactan Island: This is a popular tourist destination located just off the coast of Cebu. It has a range of beach resorts, hotels, and other accommodations, as well as a wide range of water sports and activities.

Lapu-Lapu City: This is the main city on Mactan Island and is home to many resorts and hotels. It also has a range of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.

Osmena Peak: If you're looking for a more secluded and peaceful stay, Osmeña Peak is a good option. It is located in the southern part of Cebu Island and has a range of eco-resorts and mountain lodges.

Moalboal: This is a popular diving destination located on the southwestern coast of Cebu Island. It has a range of beach resorts and budget-friendly accommodations.

These are just a few of the many areas to stay in Cebu. It is recommended to choose an accommodation based on your preferences and interests.

How to get around

Cebu has a variety of transportation options for getting around the city and the surrounding areas. Here are some popular ways to get around Cebu:

Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Cebu and are a convenient way to get around the city. Make sure to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi or ask the driver to use the meter.

Jeepney: Jeepneys are the most common form of public transportation in Cebu. They follow set routes and have designated stops. The fare is usually cheap, and they can take you to most parts of the city.

Bus: Buses are a good option for traveling to the surrounding areas of Cebu. They offer regular services to nearby towns and cities.

Motorbike: Motorbikes are a popular way to get around Cebu, especially in the more rural areas. You can rent a motorbike from a rental shop or hire a driver for a day.

Car rental: If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can rent a car in Cebu. It is recommended to rent a car with a driver if you are not familiar with the area.

Grab: Grab is a ride-hailing app that operates in Cebu. It is similar to Uber, and you can book a ride using the app.

These are just a few of the many transportation options in Cebu. It is recommended to choose a mode of transportation based on your budget, comfort level, and destination.

Flights to Cebu

There are international flights that fly to Cebu. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) is the second busiest airport in the Philippines, after Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. 

There are several airlines that offer flights from Cebu, Philippines to the USA. Some of the major airlines include Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and China Southern Airlines.

Please note that the availability of flights and schedules may vary depending on the airline and the time of year. It's always a good idea to check with one of our travel agents to confirm flight details and make reservations.