From Hustle and Bustle to Reefs and Beaches: The Ultimate Cebu Travel Guide for Locals in Manila

If you're from Metro Manila and seeking a change of pace, traveling to Cebu may be just what you need. Bask in the sun at white-sand beaches. Enjoy a breezy afternoon in the mountains. Go bar hopping at night. And if you’re a foodie, enjoy everything from delicious fresh seafood to juicy lechon. So, why not gather your things, jump on a plane, and visit the Queen City of the South? Check out these great Cebu tourist attractions when you arrive! 

Cebu is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of food options to try. But if you are traveling to Cebu and want to try out as much as you can in one night, Sugbo Mercado is the place to be. This vibrant night market is a foodie's paradise. It's the perfect place to sample local delicacies, from traditional Cebuano lechon, siomai from Tisa, puso (hanging rice), and even international dishes and treats like sweet and savory churros. Refreshing beverages like freshly squeezed fruit juices and ice-cold beers are abundant. This Cebu tourist attraction’s ambiance balances chill and vibrant, with live music adding to the festive atmosphere.

Address: Garden Bloc of Cebu IT Park, Apas, Cebu City, Cebu

The Sentral Bar and Lounge is the place to be after a day of exploring the vibrant city of Cebu. This venue sports an impressive selection of craft cocktails, wine, and local brews, as well as delicious bites that pair perfectly with your drink of choice. This hip and stylish hangout spot is one of the top Cebu tourist attractions when people from Manila mix their clubs back home. The ambiance is both cozy and trendy, with plush couches, funky artwork, and mood lighting that creates a relaxing atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a quiet date spot or a lively night out with friends. But mind you, as the night goes on, the more this two-story venue will transform to an all out club! So grab a drink, sit back, and soak up the cool vibes at this must-visit bar when you are traveling in Cebu.

Address: Norkis Cyberpark, A.S. Fortuna St, Mandaue City, 6014 Cebu, Philippines.

After the food trips and night outs, it’s best to take a slow relaxing stroll through history. Traveling to Cebu isn’t complete until you visit Magellan's Cross, a historic site that marks Cebu’s beginning. The site marks where Portuguese adventurer Ferdinand Magellan erected a large crucifix when he arrived in the Philippines in 1521, completing the first known circumnavigation of the globe. And beside this Cebu tourist attraction, stands the Sto. Nino Basilica, one of the oldest churches in Asia.  It serves as a reminder of the nation's Christianization and is a favorite location for both locals and tourists to take pictures.

Address: Magallanes Street, Cebu City, Cebu, 6000, Philippines.

Hop back a couple of centuries to a time before emails. Visit Fort San Pedro, a centuries old military fortification complex from the Spanish colonial era. Within its walls, there is a museum where you may learn about Cebu's rich revolutionary history. It's a wonderful location for a leisurely stroll while admiring the views of the port, sea, and nearby plaza, Plaza Independencia. Traveling to Cebu can be both a getaway and an opportunity to better appreciate Filipino culture and heritage.

Address: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City, Cebu, 6000, Philippines.

Continue your escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern metropolis by reliving the past. The Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House is a must-visit spot when traveling to Cebu. This centuries-old house takes you back in time with its preserved architecture and antiques (such as paintings and furniture), giving you a feel of what life was like in the old days. This mansion from the 17th century displays Cebu's colonial past. It's a fantastic location to discover Cebu's cultural heritage for history buffs and getaway travelers alike.

Address: 155 Mabini Street, Parian, Cebu City, Cebu, 6000, Philippines.

The lovely islands that encircle Cebu make island hopping a common pastime. Even from the heart of the city, the warm beaches and clear ocean waters are never more than an hour away. Pack your swimming shorts because you’ll be doing a lot of snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the beach. You can visit a variety of islands each with their own charm including: Nalusuan, Caohagan, and Gilutongan. To get the most out of your island-hopping vacation when traveling to Cebu, you can rent a boat or sign up for a tour. 

Cebu Safari is a world-class zoo that should always be on the itinerary when traveling to Cebu.This sprawling 170-hectare zoo is located all up in the mountains and far and away from the city. Within its area, more than a thousand animals from all regions of the world roam in large enclosures. Get up close and personal with majestic animals like lions, tigers, and giraffes. Depending on the attraction, you can even feed some of them! And if you're looking for a thrill or something more active, the Safari also provides a variety of activities including ziplining and horseback riding. Families and groups of friends of all ages will enjoy the experience of fresh air and wild animals at this incredible Cebu tourist attraction.

Address: Barangay Corte, Toril, Carmen, Cebu, 6005, Philippines.

Looking for an adventure when traveling to Cebu? Rent a car or take a bus down south of Cebu. Hike at Osmena Peak and after, go canyoneering and swimming at Kawasan Falls. Osmena Peak is the highest peak in Cebu and the perfect backdrop for a scenic ascent with breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and even islands. After the hike, make your way to Kawasan Falls for a thrilling canyoneering experience. Get your adrenaline pumping as you jump, swim, and slide down natural rock formations and waterfalls into the crystal clear blue waters!

Address: Mantalongon, Dalaguete

Address: Matutinao, Badian