Cebu is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines. There are many amazing things to see and experience. Cebu is a great destination for those who love wildlife, nature, and adventure. You can climb stunning peaks, explore jungle waterfalls, relax on paradise beach, dive in swirls of sardines, and swim with whale-sharks.
Cebu, however, is a large and spread-out island. Cebu is also a difficult place to navigate. A transportation plan is crucial if you’re looking for a comfortable, enjoyable and affordable vacation. We can help. We have spent a lot of time exploring Cebu – and we are excited to share our information, experience and advice with you so you can plan your own adventures.
What is the best way to travel around Cebu? This article will tell you everything you want to know about transport in Cebu. We will provide you with specific details and prices so you can plan your trip. Planning your Cebu itinerary requires you to know how to get around the city.
Cebu’s top destinations
- Cebu City – The main city in Cebu – malls, street food & culture
- Moalboal – Small town, diving, cafes, resorts, beaches & Canyoneering
- Oslob – Peaceful town, whale sharks, waterfalls & beaches
- Borbon – tranquil district with jungle hills and peaceful beaches
- Danbatayan – Funtastic island beach Resort, beaches, Maya port
- Bogo City – Main town in the North of Cebu
What is the public transportation system like in Cebu
The island of Cebu does not have a public transport system as such, although it is worth mentioning that Cebu City does have a bus network – and that’s about it. The only public transport system that connects different parts of the Island is a few public bus routes within Cebu City. There are no trains or flights between Cebu’s towns and cities. Cebu has no public transport, but it is still possible for you to travel efficiently, cheaply and on a tight budget. Continue reading to learn more about the best ways of getting around Cebu.
Travel by bus
Cebu is a small island with no public transport system. There are many privately operated buses, especially between the major destinations on the Island. The private bus network is affordable, reliable, and extensive. Cebu’s buses are affordable and frequent. Most trips only take a few minutes and cost a handful of hundred pesos.
Rent a car
Cebu car rental is expensive compared to the rest of Southeast Asia. We were able secure the cheapest deal for a longer term rental (we rented over 3 weeks) at 900 pesos a day. In many cases, car rental in Cebu costs at 1,000 – 1,400 pesos per day (and often much more than this). Car rental prices vary widely between dealers. You can get cheaper deals if you rent for longer periods of time and choose an older or smaller vehicle. Negotiating for the best deal is always worthwhile.
Top tip: The terminology can make car rental in Cebu a bit confusing. You may see taxi services advertised as “car rental.” Read carefully to determine what you’re getting. You are looking for “self drive car rental” in Cebu.
Driving around Cebu
Cebu’s roads can be crowded and busy, making driving around the city a challenge. Watch out for bikes that make certain unpredictable maneuvers, such as pulling out of intersections without looking or changing lanes with no warning. Families can benefit from car rental because they can set their own pace and decide where to stop along the way.
It’s also convenient to throw your children’s toys and snacks in the car. Baby seats are not common in the Philippines, so if you’re traveling with your baby, be sure to check. If this is something you’re concerned about, you should find a rental car company that provides a child seat.
Taxi travel
Taxis are another way to travel around Cebu. Taxis are available in abundance, and taxi drivers are generally happy to take longer trips as they can earn a lot more money. There are many ways to arrange taxi trips over long distances. You can ask your hotel, hostel or guesthouse for help. They may have connections to local drivers who will arrange trips.
You can also contact local tour operators and travel agents. They will arrange for a long distance taxi trip on your behalf. Long-distance taxis in Cebu are a convenient and stress-free way to get around, but they can be expensive. Be prepared to pay $30 – $100 for a private taxi ride between towns in Cebu (the exact price depends on the distance of the journey and your ability to barter). It’s a good idea to take a long distance taxi if you are traveling in a group or as a family.
Book tours
Booking tours and excursions is another way of traveling around Cebu. In most cases, tours and trips will include transportation. You may also get a free pick-up from your hotel when you book. Booking tours in Cebu has several benefits.
You don’t have to plan or think. You can relax and enjoy the experience because they will take you to all the right places, at the right time. Local tour guides know the best places for food, the best sights to see, and what to do. It’s also a good way to meet new people and form connections. In some cases a tour can be the cheapest and most convenient way to explore a new place.
How do I book tours in Cebu?
Arriving at the destination and speaking with local tour operators will be the cheapest option for booking tours in Cebu. Travel agents and tour operators are available in most popular destinations around Cebu to help you book tours. This is generally cheaper than booking tours and trips online. If you want to book your trip in advance, but still feel secure, we recommend booking tours and trips with Klook. Tours in Cebu have some drawbacks.
