Cebu Island is a top destination in the Philippines. From the cosmopolitan city of Cebu City to the white-sanded beaches of Mactan, to the electric-blue water of Kawasan falls and the whale-sharks of Oslob.
Cebu City’s popularity is easy to understand. From its big city sophistication to its pristine white beaches. Cebu City combines history, as it is the oldest Philippine city, with a glamorous nightlife and dining scene in a lush natural setting.
Cebu City is the biggest urban area in Cebu Island. It is part of a group of islands in South China Sea, south of Manila and in the Visayas Region of the country. Cebu City is located in the middle of the island along the southeast coast. A mountain range runs through the center. The combination of mountains with the sea provides an abundance of fresh, local ingredients.
Cebu City has a Latin flavor in certain parts. This is because, along with Spanish colonization and trade between the Philippines, Mexico, Cebu City served as an early outpost. Cebu City has a rich history, culture, and cuisine.
Cebu City: Top 5 Reasons for a Visit
1. Enjoy Life on the Water
Cebu City is located on an island, so you’ll want make the most of it by taking advantage of the water, including the soft white sands at Larawan Beach, in Talisay City and Marigondon Beach, on Mactan Island. Along with the relaxing beach, you can dive to explore coral reefs and whale sharks, or enjoy some of Asia’s best fishing. Many resorts have private beaches along the coastline.
2. Delectable Cuisine
Cebu City offers a wide variety of dishes, including seafood, that are influenced by a mixture of influences from the region, such as Spanish, Mexican, Chinese and Japanese. You can find food at all price levels, from the cheapest street food to the most expensive dining establishments.
3. Explore Fascinating History
Cebu City, the oldest urban centre in the country, offers many opportunities to learn more about its rich history. Magellan’s Cross, which was planted in downtown Cebu City, in 1521. You can also stroll down Colon Street, which is the oldest road in the nation.
4. Outdoor Adventure
Cebu City, as well as Cebu Island, offers a variety of outdoor sports. You can go spelunking or canyoneering or jump down the many waterfalls on the island into rushing streams. Mountain biking, rock-climbing, skydiving and more are all available.
5. A Shopping Extravaganza
Cebu City offers a wide range of shopping options, including the huge SM City Cebu (and its famous terraced gardens) and the Ayala Center Cebu. You can also find a variety of other shopping opportunities, including street vendors and themed malls. Many offer entertainment options as well, such as the huge skating rink located at the SM Seaside City Mall.
Cebu City: What to do?
1. Basilica del Santo Niño: Mother of all Churches
This historic cathedral, located in the heart of Cebu City for centuries, is the oldest Roman Catholic Church to be found in the Philippines. The building, which is atmospheric and time-worn, is a symbol of the spread and birth of Christianity in the Philippines. From frescoes to statues, everything about the interior exudes that important role – particularly the awe-inspiring Image of Santo Niño. Nearby, Ferdinand Magellan’s Cross marks the arrival of the explorer into the Philippines in the 16th century.
2. Cebu Taoist temple: Hilltop Worship
While Christianity became widely spread in the Philippines following the arrival the Portuguese, many other religions have continued to thrive. This Taoist Temple is a modern wonder. An enormous dragon statue welcomes visitors from the hillside. Tourists and worshippers enter the colorful chapel through a replica of China’s Great Wall. Explore the grounds to find the library, wishing-well, and balconies, from which you can enjoy stunning views of Cebu.
3. Fort San Pedro – Centuries of Conquest
This fort, strategically located at the center of the first Spanish settlement on the Philippine Islands, has been overlooking the water from Cebu Pier since centuries. While you explore the dramatic ramparts of the fort, your imagination will run riot as you learn the long history in military defense in Pacific. Just outside, Plaza Independencia marks the country’s independence from the Spanish, and it is a perfect place for a bit of R&R.
4. Colon Street is the first street in the country
Colon Street was the first road in the Philippines. It is now a commotion, with shops, vendors and jeepneys. While it is hard to imagine what life was like in the past, a walk down the street reveals layers of history and lingering evidence. Find commemorative stones that mark important landmarks along the road to deepen your knowledge of the country.
5. Lapu-Lapu City Escape to Mactan
This coral island is just a short trip away from Cebu City. Mactan offers a variety of activities, including relaxing in a resort or island hopping. The most popular activities are snorkeling and water sports. Boat rentals are also available for excursions into Bohol Strait. Try something new, like deep sea diving or even water-skiing.
How to get to Cebu City
Plan
The Mactan Cebu International Airport is a modern airport that handles domestic and international flights. It is located at Lapu-Lapu City in Mactan Island. It’s just over nine miles from Cebu City via the Central Nautical Highway. MyBus offers regular service daily to the SM City Mall for ₱25. An official yellow airport taxi to town typically costs about ₱400-500.
Cars
You will need patience to navigate the traffic in Cebu City and the surrounding area. Also, you won’t be able to drive to many of the smaller islands. Cebu City has a busy port and ferry connections to Manila, Butuan City and other locations. Some ferry trips allow cars. The Central Nautical Highway runs along the coast of Cebu Island. It connects Cebu City to Mandaue City in the north and to further afield in the south, as well as to Naga and other locations. Cebu-Toledo Wharf Road crosses the island’s mountains and connects to Toledo City.
Bus
Cebu City serves as a hub for bus transportation around the island. Ceres Liner offers air-conditioned services to Bato, among other places. Other major companies are Jegans Transport, Gabe Transport, Metrolink, and others.
Cebu City Cost of Living
Shopping Streets
Manalili Street is a large market with local goods, and a great place to find bargains on clothing and accessories. The massive Carbon Market on MC Briones Street, the largest farmer’s market in the City, is a great place to find clothing and souvenirs as well as a wide variety of food and produce.
Groceries, Other
Shopwise Supermarket and Rustan’s Supermarket, two of the many grocery stores you’ll find around town. Also, there are grocery stores in all the major malls. A quart of milk costs about ₱19 and a dozen eggs costs about ₱16.
