Hello, Cebu, the Queen urban area of the South that is fused by history, culture, and nature to produce an unforgettable travel experience. Cebu is a must see destination in the Philippines located at the heart of the islands. It is nestled in a touristy part of the Philippines, where excitement shines and treasures galore. This article takes you through the best attractions and activities that make the island of Cebu a must-see destinations for those who are looking for an adventure, a place to relax and to get new cultural experiences.
Table of Contents
13 Things to Know when Visiting Philippines first time
Here are some important things to know if you are traveling the Philippines for the first time.
1. Weather:
The Philippines has two major seasons; namely, the wet season which run between June to November and the dry season which last from December to May. Expect oppressive tropical climate, with cyclones in the wet season.
2. Cultural Diversity:
The Philippines is the mosaic of cultures with over 175 ethnolinguistic groups. Respect local customs, traditions, and beliefs.
3. Language:
Tagalog is the mother tongue of the majority of the population while English is taught in schools and used commonly in communication as the official language. The language widely spoken is English, the language being well spread out in urban areas and tourist attractions.
4. Currency:
The currency used is the Philippine Peso. The manual method of paying will always remain an option so make sure to have cash with you as Credit Cards are not accepted everywhere especially in rural settings.
5. Safety:
Take care of yourself when you are in crowded places and watch out for your pickpocket pockets. Keep away from displaying luxurious items and be careful of scams, especially in the crowded places with tourists like subway, train, or bus.
6. Transportation:
Transportation around town can be from jeepneys, tricycles, buses and taxis to mention but a few. Traffic can get very busy in major cities such as Manila and this might affect you in terms of time management.
7. Food and Water:
While Filipino dishes are both diverse and appetizing, street foods may not be a good option due to the level of hygiene. Stay with bottled or boiled water cases to not get water borne diseases.
8. Respect for Nature:
Philippines has a great natural beauty which can be seen between beaches, mountains, reefs, and many more. Respect the environment by not littering and practice eco-friendly living.
9. Island Hopping:
There are more than 7 thousand isles which is an island hopping community that much favored by travelers. Spend a lot of time in advance on the research and planning your island adventures and you are able to enjoy your visit to the fullest.
10. Electricity:
The expected voltage is 220V, and the A,B,C conductor styles are used. A universal adapter is essential if your appliances have plug types that are not universal for the location you are travelling to.
11. Cultural Etiquette:
The Filipinos who are considered as the friendliest and the best hosts of all the people in the world. Approach the friendly locals with a pleasant expression and willingly share their open, hospitable culture.
12. Bartering:
Essentially, you have to be ready to be bargained upon in the markets and small shops. Try to hone your negotiation skills to get most of the competitive prices on souvenirs and goods.
13. SIM Cards and Internet:
Consider Airalo digital SIM card, world’s first eSIM store. You can download and install the data pack and get connected anywhere in the world. It will solve the pain of high roaming bills.
Where to stay during your Cebu Expedition?
1. Cebu City:
Cebu City being the province’s capital has numerous options when it comes to accommodation, from low-cost hostels to expensive hotels. This area is perfect for anyone interested in historical site-seeing as there is Magellan’s Cross and Basilica Minore del Santo Niño nearby with shopping malls and restaurants around.
2. Mactan island:
The island maintains connections with Cebu City as it is linked through 2 bridges. The island is popular for its white beaches and resorts. If snorkeling and diving with a perfect therapeutic view on the seashore is your need, then resorts situated in Mactan Island’s coast are the places to book for your stay.
3. Lapu-Lapu City:
As a resort town on Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City combines budget and mid-range package accommodation. Furthermore, the area lies close to the Mactan Shrine and the Lapu-Lapu Monument, and it is also convenient for stunning island-hopping experiences.
4. Oslob:
Whale shark encounter is one of the activities that tourists visit Oslob, a coastal location on the southeast of Cebu Province, which can be considered as one of the reasons why this place attracts people. There are many beach resorts and guesthouses standing around which mostly provide accommodation for the tourists that come and watch whale sharks every year.
5. Moalboal:
The place is especially popular with snorkeling enthusiasts and divers because of its stunningly colorful marine life and coral reefs. Many types of lodging are offered from the cheap beach bunkhouses as well as mid-level upscale inns to top-class resorts.
6. Badian:
Home to one of the most popular falls in Cebu-Ambinawan Falls, this municipality provides the tourists with a calm place which is in the middle of tropical plantations and waterfalls. And here you go will be something such as budget homestays or lavish resorts as accommodations.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Cebu
1. Magellan’s Cross and Basilica Minore del Santo Nino
The first place to visit is to go a few steps back in time to see Cebu’s deep roots and values. Cebu City is where to see the iconic Magellan’s Cross that tells the country’s colonial story through the cross that Fredendand Magellan planted in 1521 after arrival to Cebu.
Right next to it the Roman Catholic church Basilica Minore del Santo Niño hosts the oldest sacred relic in the Philippine archipelago, that is, The Child Jesus that so many Catholics in the country regard sacred. Traditions that are centuries old can help the guests to learn more about cultural peculiarities and visiting staff will be able to assess the greatness of the ancient buildings.
2. Mactan Island
From the hustle and bustle of Cebu City, a short drive brings you to Mactan Island a natural tourist destination of white sand beaches and beautiful marine life. Visitors might choose to enjoy sunning on Mactan’s powdery white sands, swim in the water and do activities such as snorkeling and diving or island hopping tours to see what Mactan has to offer underwater.
In addition to that, Mactan offers 4-star hotels, amazing spa classes and mouth-watering meals. Thus, it is perfect place for holiday.
3. Kawasan Falls
Nature lovers and the players must not miss Kawasan Falls during their trips. Seen as the spectacular three-tiered waterfall rising from the beautiful jungle of Badian and hidden by the towering cliffs and the green pools, Kawasan Falls is a one-of-a-kind sight that will surely leave onlookers in awe.
In tune with nature, You can hike through the rain-forest towards the waterfalls and experience the refreshing waters by swimming, bamboo rafting or engaging in the ultimate adventure of canyoneering. Cascades of water feature in Kawasan Falls as a real paradise of calmness and beautify of nature, which can b e a perfect place to leave everyday city life and breath fresh air a bit.
4. Oslob Whale Shark Watching
An experience that travels never had before as you can swim while you watch the gentle giants of the sea – whale sharks. Oslob is very popular for whale shark-watching tours during which you can marvel at the splendors of these huge animals in their home environments. by enforce a rigorous system to guard the whale shark, tourists will come to an experience with these magnificent ocean animals where they will produce artistic memories of the vital moment.
Also read: Perfect one week Vietnam itinerary for every traveler.
5. Temple of Leah
The end of the tour takes us to the Leah Temple which is not far away from Cebu City that shows so of love and devotion that ever found its expression. Commissioned by a rich industrialist as a monument of everlasting devotion to his wife, the Temple of Leah, with its grandeur infused with elements of Ancient Rome’s splendor, has come to be a must-see attraction for tourists. Here, you can admire the sophisticated carvings, awe-inspiring cityscape views and the surrounding romantic atmosphere that create such a remarkable impression in local people of this architectural wonder.
One can experience a myriad of activities ranging from centuries old historic landmarks, spectacular natural wonders to cultural venues and adrenaline rush activities in Cebu, which is certainly a haven for every level of traveler. Whether it’s the quest for a blissful place in pristine beach sands, an encounter with intriguing heritage sites or exciting outdoor activities is Cebu’s tick. Therefore you should take your backpack and leave on a voyage of discovery and search for the best treasures of Cebu, which will amaze you in every possible way.
FAQs: Places to visit in Cebu, Philippines
what are the must-visit attractions in Cebu?
There are some of the best attractions in Cebu such as Magellan’s Cross, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, Tops Lookout, and Kawasan Falls.
How do I get to Kawasan falls from Cebu city?
You can get to Kawasan Falls via bus from South Bus Terminal upon reaching Cebu City. The trip is about 3-4 hour long. Alternately, you have the option of renting a cab, or go with a group tour.
What are the best beaches in Cebu?
The serene beaches of Cebu province are the dwelling places of some of the most breathtaking beaches including Malapascua Island, Bantayan Island, Moalboal, and the beaches of Mactan Island.
Where can I find the best local food in Cebu?
If you want a delicious meal, you can try local foods like stalls in Larsian, downtown Cebu. There are many restaurants and eateries which serve the Cebuano specialties like lechon (roast pig), sutukil (seafood cooked three ways) and danggit (dried fish).
Are there any adventure activities available in Cebu?
Accompanying that, Cebu provides a number of adventure activities -canyoneering in Badian, trekking to Osmena Peak, traveling by ATV or ziplining in Balamban.
what is the best time to visit cebu?
A dry season is the best period for visiting Cebu. It usually starts from December to May. Even if Cebu is an all-year-round destination, it is still likely to get rain from time to time during the wet season (June to November).