Cebu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. It has everything—white sand beaches, adventure sports, mysterious caves, and breathtaking waterfalls. It also boasts of rich history and heritage, and some of the best-preserved architecture from the 1500s. That’s why this city is often called “The Queen City of the South.” Here are some of the best things to do in Cebu City–from fun family activities to once-in-a-lifetime adventures that will give you an adrenaline rush that you will never forget.
Cebu’s Best Attractions
The Heritage of Cebu Monument
The first thing you need to do when you land in Cebu is to go to the Heritage Monument, and get a tour guide who can tell you the history of this island and its epic role in Philippine history.
Magellan and the Spanish conquistadores actually first landed in Cebu in 1521, but was driven away by its fierce warriors. This started an amazing tale of local heroes who fought for freedom, a thriving galleon trade with pirate battles and secret treasures, and Christianity woven with the local mystical folklore. You will end the tour with a deeper appreciation of Cebu’s culture and people.
Tops Lookout
Pardon the pun, but Tops is one of the top things to do in Cebu City. You will get a breath taking 360 view of the entire city, against a backdrop of endless sky and the sparkling ocean.
It’s best to go here either early in the morning, or after 4pm. Not only will you get gorgeous sunrise and sunset photos, but you’ll avoid the harsh tropical heat. If you want to avoid the crowds, come here in the evening.
Some of the best diving in the world can be experienced in the Philippines. You’ll need to have your Open Water Diving Certificate previous to showing up or you can come to Cebu to take a scuba diving course.
Diving trip
This is one of the best things to do in Cebu City! Not only does Cebu have amazing marine life, but the cost of diving and snorkeling is much cheaper than anywhere else in the world. You’ll be able to see hundreds of varieties of fish, Thresher sharks, colorful sea sponges and coral reeds, and blue sea stars.
For beginners, check out the Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary. The calm and comfortably warm waters are perfect for learning how to snorkel and dive. Since it’s a protected area, your chances of spotting even rare fish are high. The fish are also used to people and are very friendly, and will approach you if you offer a bit of bread.
You can also book a complete diving tour that will take you to other marine sanctuaries like Nalusuan, Olango, Caohagan, Cabulan and Talima.
Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls
Kawasan Falls is one of Cebu’s top tourist attractions, because of its running 30-foot high cliffs and sapphire blue pools. But why stop at just taking pictures? Take a canyoneering tour! You’ll be able to swim or take an exhilarating dive from the rocks. And instead of just hiking through the Kawasan trails, you can rappel down the cliffs.
For adventure seekers, this is one of the best things to do in Cebu City. Don’t worry if you don’t have any gear or experience—the guides will teach you everything, and make sure you stay safe at every step.
Bantayan Island
Bantayan has the same white sand beaches as Boracay, but it’s not as crowded or commercialized. This is the best place for a quiet and relaxing vacation. Just sit back and enjoy the view (and a cocktail).
You can stay in a resort or one of the private beaches. If you only plan to stay there for the day, you can go to some public beaches that charge a small entrance fee.
However, we recommend staying at least overnight. Resorts and private houses have the best views, and you’ll have more time to explore Bantayan Island’s other attractions—like the natural cave pools and cold springs.
Swim with the Whale Sharks
This is definitely one of the best things to do on Cebu Island! Whale sharks are the biggest fish in the world. During the coldest months of the year, they flock to Cebu’s warm waters.
Since they’re used to fishermen feeding them, they’re quite friendly. They will swim beside you, and even nudge you playfully. They’re like big, happy sea puppies.
The experience of playing with these gentle giants will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Run with the Sardines
Head to the Moalboal Shallows on the southwestern coast of Cebu. This place is famous for its Sardine Run, where you get to swim with millions of sardines while you snorkel.
In some months of the year, you may even spot sea turtles who go to the island to mate and hatch their eggs. Some of them may even join you in your swim!
Camotes Island
If you can’t decide what to do in Cebu City, then the solution is to do everything. Camotes Island offers a variety of outdoor activities that will appeal to both families with kids or thrill-seekers.
You can enjoy a relaxing swim at Santiago White Beach or Tulong Duot Island. Or, head to Lake Danao, where you can go horseback riding, boating, and kayaking. We recommend staying there for the whole day. Between activities, take an early al fresco lunch at the picnic grounds, and then end your day with a sunset lake cruise.
Thrill-seekers definitely need to try cliff diving at Buho Rock. You can try the 10-foot cliff—or, for the maximum adrenaline rush, take off from the highest point of 30 feet.
Explore different caves
For a different experience, visit Timubo Cave—aside from enjoying its interesting rock formations, you can swim in the refreshing cave pools. The water is very cold and clean, and the rocks shield you from the sun.
Bukilat Cave is also quite popular because of its roof opening. The sunlight floods the stalactites and stalagmites and creates an intricate pattern of shadows that turn the rocks into living sculptures.
But if you want to go spelunking, the best place to go is Holy Crystal Cave, which has the most unique rock formations.
Sirao Garden
This beautiful garden will make you feel like you stepped into the painting. It’s filled with celosia flowers, sunflowers, daisies, hyacinths, asters—everywhere you turn, you’ll see brilliant blooms. Make a quick stopover here for some truly Instagram worthy photos.
Basilica del Santo Nino
This is the oldest church in the Philippines. It was built in 1565 and is very well preserved. The stained glass windows, archways, and paintings will fill you with awe. You can also visit the museum, which houses relics from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Visit an ancestral home
If you’re a history buff, you may want to visit some of the oldest and most well-preserved buildings on the island. This includes the Yap San Diego Ancestral House, which was built in 1675. Its original structure is still intact and has been turned into a museum. You can see furniture, paintings, and accessories from the era.
You can also visit the 1730 Jesuit House, which dates back to the 1700s. It was the home of one of the Jesuit superiors who was assigned to Cebu. It still has its hewn stones, clay tile roof, decorative corbels, and hardwood floors, as well as a carved relief of the Jesuit seal.
Mountain View Nature Park
If you’re traveling with young kids, go to this water park! Its got several pools (including shallow pools for toddlers), playgrounds and jungle gyms. And everywhere you turn, you’ll see rolling hills and thick forests.
Eat Cebu Lechon
People may have their own preferences about what to do in Cebu City, but there’s one thing we can guarantee that you will enjoy: eating the Cebu Lechon. Lechon is a Philippine delicacy, where a whole pig is slow-roasted over an open fire. The meat remains tender and juicy (practically falling off the bone!) while the skin becomes extra crispy.
Lechon is sold all over the Philippines and is typically served with liver sauce. However, Cebu Lechon uses a unique blend of seasons and special cooking techniques so the meat has a delicate flavor. Definitely one of the top things to do in Cebu!
But don’t just stop at the Lechon! Cebu is well-known for its regional cuisine and very fresh seafood. Food is also very cheap here, so put your diet on pause and indulge in the native delicacies. Try pochero (a rich beef tomato stew with plantains and sweet potatoes), the native sweet rice cakes, and kinilaw.
