The 10 Best Things to Do in Cebu
- Mahal Vorson
- Jun 17
- 6 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
(by Mahalvorson)
Cebu, a sun-drenched island in the heart of the Philippines, offers a stunning variety of activities for every kind of traveler. From its beautiful beaches to historical landmarks and adventure spots, Cebu is a destination that combines rich cultural heritage with natural beauty. Here are the 10 best things you must do when visiting Cebu, along with essential travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Visit the Magnificent Kawasan Falls (Picture suggestion: Turquoise blue waters with lush greenery)Kawasan Falls in Badian is an absolute must-see for nature lovers. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning three-tiered waterfalls are perfect for swimming, canyoneering, and taking picturesque photos. To get there, you’ll need to travel about 3 hours from Cebu City by bus or private vehicle. The journey will cost around ₱150-₱200 for a bus ride or ₱3,000-₱4,000 for a private car (roundtrip). Once there, you can either walk or take a motorbike ride to the falls. Expect a fun, scenic trek and don't forget to bring water shoes! For the best experience, book a guided canyoneering tour to explore the falls and its surrounding areas.
Explore the Historical Magellan’s Cross; The iconic cross surrounded by a rotunda with colorful decorations.
2. Explore the Historical Magellan’s Cross. For history buffs, Magellan’s Cross in Cebu City is a must-visit. This landmark is where Ferdinand Magellan planted a cross upon arriving in the Philippines in 1521. It’s located right beside the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, so you can easily visit both in one trip. The entrance is free, but you’ll find vendors around selling religious items or souvenirs. To get there, just take a jeepney or taxi from almost anywhere in Cebu City. A visit is only about 30 minutes long, but it’s full of history and significance.
3. Swim with Whale Sharks in Oslob (Picture suggestion: A gigantic whale shark swimming next to a tiny swimmer)For an unforgettable adventure, head to Oslob, where you can swim with the gentle giant whale sharks. Located about 3-4 hours south of Cebu City, the best way to get there is by bus, which costs about ₱150-₱200 one way. Once you arrive, you’ll be briefed by the local guides on safety protocols before you plunge into the water with these magnificent creatures. A guided tour costs around ₱1,000-₱2,000. Be mindful, though, that while the experience is amazing, there are ongoing debates about the ethics of whale shark feeding, so it’s important to consider the environmental impact of such activities.
4. Relax at White Beach, Malapascua Island (Picture suggestion: A pristine, white-sand beach with clear blue water)If you’re looking for an idyllic tropical getaway, head to Malapascua Island. Known for its long stretch of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Malapascua is the perfect place to unwind. You can take a 4-hour bus ride from Cebu City to Maya Port, then hop on a boat to the island (roughly ₱100-₱150 for the bus and ₱100-₱200 for the boat). This island is also famous for diving, particularly for thresher shark sightings. Costs can range from ₱3,000 for a beginner dive to around ₱6,000 for more advanced diving courses.
5. Discover the Hidden Beauty of Sirao Flower Farm (Picture suggestion: Colorful fields of blooming flowers against a clear sky)Located in the highlands of Cebu, the Sirao Flower Farm is often called “Little Amsterdam” due to its vibrant and picturesque flower fields. Best visited during the cooler months (November to February), this farm features a range of colorful flowers, including sunflowers, celosia, and orchids. You can get there by taking a 45-minute drive from Cebu City (taxi or private car is your best bet, costing around ₱500-₱800 one way). The entrance fee is minimal, typically around ₱50-₱100. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk, a photo op, or a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
6. Trek to Osmeña Peak (Picture suggestion: Hikers standing at the summit overlooking misty mountain views)For those who love a bit of adventure and want to take in stunning panoramic views of Cebu, a hike to Osmeña Peak is a must. This is the highest point in Cebu, standing at 1,013 meters above sea level, and the trek to the top is relatively short but steep. You can reach Osmeña Peak by taking a 3-hour drive to Dalaguete from Cebu City, followed by a short hike (around 30 minutes to 1 hour). The hike is free, but you’ll need to pay for a guide (₱300-₱500). The view at the top, with its rolling hills and green valleys, is absolutely breathtaking.
7. Take a Scenic Ferry Ride to Bohol (Picture suggestion: A ferry crossing the turquoise sea with the island in the distance)While in Cebu, you can’t miss a day trip to Bohol. Just a short ferry ride away, Bohol offers a fantastic contrast to Cebu with its unique attractions, like the Chocolate Hills and the famous Tarsier Sanctuary. The ferry ride costs around ₱500-₱700 for a one-way trip, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Bohol, you can either rent a motorbike or hire a van to explore the island's top sights. It’s an easy day trip from Cebu, and if you have the time, consider staying overnight to explore more of Bohol.
8. Visit the Taoist Temple (Picture suggestion: The beautiful, ornate gates and architecture of the temple)The Taoist Temple, located in the upscale Beverly Hills area of Cebu City, is a peaceful and spiritual retreat with impressive Chinese architecture. The temple offers great views of the city, as it’s perched high on the hills. You can easily get there by taxi or jeepney (around ₱150-₱300). The entrance is free, and you can take a leisurely stroll around the temple’s beautifully landscaped gardens and observe the tranquil surroundings. Don’t forget to bring your camera as the temple's intricate details make for stunning photos.
9. Stroll Around Fort San Pedro (Picture suggestion: A historical fort with cannons and stone walls)Cebu’s Fort San Pedro is another historical gem, dating back to the 16th century. This military defense structure was built by the Spanish to protect the island from invaders. It’s located in the heart of Cebu City, so getting there is easy via a taxi or jeepney (₱50-₱100). The entrance fee is just ₱30-₱50. The fort has well-preserved walls, old cannons, and a museum that tells the history of Cebu. It’s a peaceful spot for history enthusiasts and a great way to dive deeper into the city’s colonial past.
10. Enjoy the Nightlife at Mango Square (Picture suggestion: A lively street with neon lights, bars, and clubs)Finally, if you’re looking to experience Cebu’s vibrant nightlife, Mango Square is the place to be. Located in the heart of Cebu City, this bustling street is lined with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs where you can enjoy drinks, dancing, and live music. The atmosphere here is energetic and fun, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re into clubbing, karaoke, or just having a casual drink with friends, Mango Square has it all. Taxi fares to this area range from ₱50-₱150 depending on where you’re staying, and you can expect to pay about ₱200-₱500 for a fun night out.
Tips for Traveling Around CebuTo get around Cebu, you’ll find a range of options. Jeepneys are affordable and part of the local culture, costing around ₱8-₱15 per ride. Taxis are more convenient but cost a little more, typically starting at ₱40. If you plan to explore further, renting a motorbike (₱300-₱500 a day) or a private car (₱2,000-₱4,000 a day) is a great option. Always carry cash with you, as some areas may not accept card payments.
Cebu is a remarkable destination that offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, culture, and history. Whether you're swimming with whale sharks, hiking through lush mountains, or simply soaking in the local culture, there’s always something to discover in this vibrant island. Just remember to stay safe, respect local customs, and enjoy the friendly vibe that Cebu is so famous for!
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