Cebu is one of the Philippines’ most popular cities, located in the Visayas region. Both modern and traditional, Cebu is a blend of urban developments and colonial Spanish history. Its most popular activities include tours of famous Spanish structures, like Basilica Minore del Santo Niño church and Fort San Pedro. Those who love beaches can also head to the surrounding islets around the city, where travelers can go diving or swimming in clear waters. Wondering what to do in Cebu? Check this list out.
Among the most popular Cebu tourist attractions is Krus ni Magellan (which translates to Magellan’s Cross), the cross planted by Spanish and Portuguese explorers after they reached the island of Cebu. Located right beside the Basilica del Santo Niño, the cross is one of the most iconic religious attractions in Cebu as it carries history of how the Philippines became a predominantly Catholic country.
This basilica is the oldest church in the Philippines. Found right beside the site of Krus ni Magellan, the basilica was built on the site where Santo Niño de Cebú’s image was found. The holy place is a staple of Cebu as well as Catholicism in the country. Many locals and travelers head here during the Sinulog festival to celebrate mass. Apart from this, tourists can also admire its glorious church design.
Located in Plaza Indepedencia by the pier, Fort San Pedro is a historical site built under the command of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, during the Spanish colonial era. For a fee, you can buy a ticket and hire a tour guide to learn about its rich history and how it was used as a fortress during the battles and wars of the past. There are artifacts in the area to study as well. Travelers ought to visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
The Casa Gorordo Museum, found in downtown Cebu, is one of the preserved old Spanish-style houses in the city. It is now a museum housing various items and furniture. If you get to explore the place with a tour guide, you can learn about its history darting back to the Spanish and Japanese eras. This heritage house also has a cafe and souvenir shop for travelers to check out.
Built on top of the small hill in Cebu, the Temple of Leah is dubbed the Philippines’ own Taj Mahal, as it was made by Teodorico Soriano Adarna as a symbol of love for his late wife Leah. This Roman-inspired temple overlooks a scenic view and is filled with beautiful statues and monuments. Locals or visitors traveling Cebu don’t have to go too far to have a taste of Roman architecture. Tourists may visit for a fee of PHP100.
Along Canada Drive in Cebu, travelers may find a piece of the Netherlands filled with beautiful blooms and quaint gardens. Sirao Garden-Little Amsterdam is named as such thanks to its colorful flowers, picturesque structures, tiny windmills, and small barn-like houses that are the perfect backdrop for your next IG post. Visitors can drop by in the morning or late afternoon while it isn’t too hot for a cute photoshoot.
One of the best things to do in Cebu is see how picturesque it is from the top, of course! Tops Lookout, which is near Temple of Leah, is an open-air observation deck that showcases sweeping panoramic views of the city. It also has dining options should you want to spend a little more time here. Tourists recommend to go here in the evening or at sunset, for the best views of the lights and for breezy weather.
Along Mabini Street is the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the most prominent churches in the city. This beautiful church is a historical landmark as well as an important religious site for Cebuanos. Because of its elegant design, many weddings and big celebratory masses have been held here. The cathedral is the ecclesiastical seat of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Cebu.
Colon Street, found in the heart of Cebu City, was named after historical figure Christopher Columbus and is also recognized as the oldest and shortest national road in the country. Once built by Spaniards during the colonial period, the street is now modernized and home to many commercial districts, from shopping centers to markets and other similar establishments. This lively and bustling street is a must-visit for any traveler who finds themselves in Cebu.
A few blocks away from Plaza Independencia is the Cebu Provincial Museum, housed in what was known as a prison hall. The museum is a good way to learn about the rich and vibrant history of Cebu, darting back to the Spanish age until its modern times today. You can get inside the museum for a small fee and even add on a tour guide with no extra charges.
Cebu is famous for its beaches and scenic diving spots. Nature lovers will love this place, and so will history buffs, who can easily learn about this city’s Spanish heritage through its old structures. Tourist favorites include Krus ni Magellan, the cross that the Spanish brought to the natives back in the day, and Fort San Pedro, an 18th century-built stone fort.
The Philippines has only its wet and dry seasons, so the best time to visit Cebu would be around the holidays and during the summer (December to June). Cebu is also known for its Sinulog festival, a Christian festival with colorful processions and parades, which happens in January.
Stay in the neighborhood of Lahug, which is central to many famous sites in Cebu, like Krus ni Magellan, Cebu Taoist Temple, Fort San Pedro, and more. There are also a number of shopping sites within the area and comfortable accommodations that newcomers will find solace in.