Things to Do in Cebu City, Philippines

Cebu City, known as the Queen City of the South, is the Philippines' oldest city and the bustling capital of Cebu Province. This historic metropolis seamlessly blends Spanish colonial heritage with modern urban development, serving as the cultural and economic heart of the Visayas region. From ancient churches and vibrant markets to towering skyscrapers and world-class resorts, Cebu offers an authentic Filipino experience with international appeal. As the gateway to over 160 islands in the Central Visayas, Cebu City is perfectly positioned for both urban exploration and tropical island adventures. The city boasts rich cultural attractions including centuries-old religious sites, colorful festivals, and a thriving culinary scene that showcases the best of Cebuano cuisine. With its strategic location, excellent infrastructure, and warm hospitality, Cebu City serves as an ideal base for discovering the natural wonders and cultural treasures of the central Philippines.

Top Things to Do in Cebu City

Historical City Tour

Explore Cebu's rich colonial heritage by visiting iconic landmarks including Magellan's Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro. These sites tell the story of Spanish colonization and the introduction of Christianity to the Philippines. The tour typically includes Heritage Monument and Colon Street, the oldest street in the country.

Booking Tip: City tours cost around $15-25 per person for half-day trips. Book through reputable local operators or hotels, and visit early morning (8-10 AM) to avoid crowds and heat. Look for guides who speak your language and include entrance fees.

Island Hopping Adventure

Discover the pristine islands surrounding Cebu with day trips to Mactan, Hilutungan, or Nalusuan islands. These excursions typically include snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, beach lounging on white sand shores, and fresh seafood lunches. The marine sanctuaries offer excellent opportunities to see colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.

Booking Tip: Island hopping tours range from $25-50 per person including boat, lunch, and snorkeling gear. Book 1-2 days in advance during peak season. Choose operators with good safety records and newer boats, and confirm what's included in the price.

Temple and Cultural Sites

Visit the magnificent Siman Temple of Leah, a Roman-inspired temple offering panoramic city views and stunning architecture. Combine this with other cultural attractions like the Heritage Monument and Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House. These sites showcase both ancient Filipino culture and more recent architectural achievements.

Booking Tip: Temple entrance fees are typically $2-5 per site. Visit during late afternoon for the best lighting and cooler temperatures. Many sites close by 6 PM, so plan accordingly. Consider hiring a local guide for historical context.

Oslob Whale Shark Experience

Take a day trip to Oslob to swim with gentle whale sharks in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows you to snorkel alongside the world's largest fish in crystal-clear waters. The trip often includes visits to Tumalog Falls and other scenic spots along the southern coast.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $60-100 per person including transportation, boat fees, and snorkeling gear. Book through established operators and start very early (4-5 AM departure) to avoid crowds. Respect marine life guidelines and choose eco-responsible operators.

Canyoneering Adventure

Experience the thrill of canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, featuring cliff jumping, swimming through turquoise pools, and navigating natural rock formations. This adrenaline-pumping activity takes you through multiple waterfalls and ends at the famous multi-tiered Kawasan Falls. The adventure combines hiking, swimming, and cliff diving in stunning natural settings.

Booking Tip: Canyoneering packages cost $40-70 per person including guide, safety equipment, and lunch. Book with certified operators who provide proper safety gear and experienced guides. Bring water shoes and quick-dry clothing. Tours run year-round but avoid during heavy rains.

Getting There

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) is the main gateway, located about 30 minutes from downtown Cebu City on Mactan Island. The airport serves numerous international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, plus extensive domestic connections throughout the Philippines. From Manila, flights take about 1.5 hours with multiple daily options from Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia. Taxis, Grab rides, and airport shuttles provide convenient transportation to the city center, costing around $8-15 depending on your destination.

Getting Around

Getting around Cebu City is easy with various transportation options including modern taxis, Grab ride-hailing service, and colorful jeepneys for an authentic local experience. The city has well-maintained roads and most attractions are within a 20-minute drive of each other. For day trips to outlying attractions like Oslob or Kawasan Falls, organized tours or private van rentals are recommended. Habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are popular for reaching remote areas, while tricycles work well for short distances in residential areas.

Where to Stay

Ayala Business Park

IT Park (Lahug)

Colon Street Historic Area

Capitol Site

Banilad-Guadalupe

Mactan Island Resorts

Food & Dining

Cebu's culinary scene is legendary, centered around the famous lechon (roasted pig) considered the best in the Philippines. The city offers everything from street food markets like Larsian BBQ and Carbon Market to upscale restaurants in Ayala Center and IT Park. Don't miss local specialties including sutukil (sugba, tuwa, kilaw - grilled, soup, and ceviche), puso (hanging rice), and dried mangoes. The Temple of Leah area and Sirao Flower Garden vicinity offer restaurants with scenic views, while downtown provides authentic local eateries and the freshest seafood at budget-friendly prices.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Cebu City is during the dry season from December to May, with March to May offering the most sunshine and calm seas perfect for island hopping. January to February provides cooler temperatures and is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The famous Sinulog Festival in January attracts visitors worldwide but also brings crowds and higher prices. Avoid the rainy season from June to November when typhoons are possible, though brief afternoon showers can occur year-round in this tropical climate.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Cebuano phrases like 'Maayong buntag' (Good morning) as locals appreciate the effort and it's different from Tagalog

Always carry small bills for jeepneys, tricycles, and street vendors as exact change is expected and rarely provided

Book accommodations early during Sinulog Festival week in January as the city fills up and prices triple for this major religious celebration

Things to Do in Cebu City