CEBU PROVINCE
Cebu is the Queen City of the South, a dazzling hub of history, culture, and natural wonder in the Visayas. This vibrant island province offers an incredible blend of cosmopolitan life and breathtaking tropical escapes.
It is a land of white-sand beaches, world-class diving, and dramatic waterfalls. From Spanish colonial treasures to modern urban centers, Cebu provides a gateway to adventure and a deep dive into Filipino heritage.
Most Popular Attractions
City Core & Heritage Sites (Cebu City and Mactan)
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño (bah-see-LEE-kah mee-NOH-reh del SAHN-toh NEE-nyoh): The oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines, enshrining the revered image of the Child Jesus.
Magellan’s Cross: A historical landmark planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, signifying the start of Christianity in the country.
Fort San Pedro: The oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines, a triangular-shaped Spanish fortress near the port area.
Colon Street: Recognized as the oldest street in the Philippines, established by the Spanish in 1565.
The Heritage of Cebu Monument: A tableau of sculptures depicting Cebu’s rich history, from Magellan’s arrival to the canonization of San Pedro Calungsod.
Yap Sandiego Ancestral House: One of the oldest residential houses in the country, showcasing Chinese and Spanish colonial architecture.
Casa Gorordo Museum: The former residence of the first Filipino bishop of Cebu, Juan Gorordo, preserving 19th-century Visayan life.
Museo Sugbo: The provincial museum, housed in the former provincial jail, detailing Cebu’s history.
Lapu-Lapu Shrine: A 20-meter bronze statue on Mactan Island commemorating Datu Lapu-Lapu, who defeated Magellan in 1521.
Cebu Taoist Temple: A colorful, multi-tiered temple complex offering a serene retreat and panoramic views of Cebu City.
Temple of Leah: A grand, Roman-style temple and museum built as a tribute to the late wife of a wealthy Cebuano family.
Adventure, Nature & Waterfalls (South & Central Cebu)
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering (kah-WAH-sahn): A thrilling adventure involving jumping, swimming, and climbing through a canyon to reach the iconic turquoise-blue falls in Badian.
Moalboal Sardine Run (moh-al-BOH-al): An incredible, year-round spectacle where millions of sardines form massive, swirling bait balls just off the coast of Panagsama Beach.
Whale Shark Swimming in Oslob: An up-close encounter with gentle giant whale sharks in the waters of Oslob.
Osmeña Peak (ohs-MEH-nyah): The highest point on Cebu Island (1,013 masl), offering a 360-degree view of the jagged, “Chocolate Hills”-like landscape.
Tumalog Falls (too-MAH-log): A curtain-like, misty waterfall in Oslob, known for its soft, multi-tiered cascade.
Aguinid Falls (ah-gee-NID): A unique, multi-level waterfall in Samboan that requires a guided climb up five levels of limestone rock formations.
Mantayupan Falls: The tallest waterfall in Cebu, located in Barili, with a main drop of 98 meters.
Bojo River Cruise & Ecotourism: A scenic river cruise in Aloguinsan, known for its pristine waters and mangrove forests, managed by a local community.
Island Escapes & Beaches (North Cebu & Offshore Islands)
Bantayan Island Beaches: Known for powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, including Kota Beach with its famous sandbar and Paradise Beach.
Malapascua Island Diving: A world-class dive destination famous for almost guaranteed sightings of the rare Thresher Sharks at Monad Shoal.
Sumilon Island Sandbar: A stunning, shifting sandbar with clear turquoise waters off the coast of Oslob, often visited as a day trip.
Virgin Island (also known as Silion Island): A private, picturesque island near Bantayan, celebrated for its perfect sandbar and shallow lagoons.
Camotes Islands: An island group with attractions like Santiago Bay and Lake Danao for a quieter, more relaxed beach and nature experience.
Carnaza Island: A secluded, turtle-shaped island in the north, known for its raw, unspoiled beauty and unique rock formations.
Activities & Experiences
Go Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls: Embark on an exhilarating adventure trekking, jumping, and swimming through the bright turquoise waters of the Badian River Canyon, culminating in the stunning, multi-tiered Kawasan Falls (Kah-WAH-sahn).
Swim with the Sardine Run in Moalboal: Witness a massive, spectacular school of millions of sardines just a few meters from the shore at Panagsama Beach (Pah-nahg-SAH-mah) without needing a boat or scuba gear.
Snorkel or Dive with Sea Turtles: Head to the reefs around Moalboal, particularly near Pescador Island or Tongo Point, for a high chance of swimming alongside graceful sea turtles.
Hike to Osmeña Peak: Conquer the highest point on Cebu Island for a stunning, jagged, “Chocolate Hills”-like landscape with panoramic views of the entire island.
Encounter Whale Sharks in Oslob: Take a boat trip for a supervised snorkeling or diving experience alongside the gentle giants of the sea.
Explore Malapascua Island: Take a boat to this northern island known worldwide for its spectacular diving, being one of the only places to reliably spot Thresher Sharks (requires an early morning dive).
Island Hopping and Marine Sanctuaries: From Mactan Island, take a boat tour to nearby islets like Hilutungan (Hee-loo-TOONG-ahn) or Nalusuan for excellent snorkeling in protected marine sanctuaries.
Tour Historic Cebu City: Visit landmarks like Magellan’s Cross, the Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro to delve into the Philippines’ colonial past.
Visit the Simala Shrine: Make a pilgrimage to this ornate, castle-like church and monastery, famous for its miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary.
Experience a Local Food Tour: Sample Cebuano delicacies like Lechon (roast pig, pronounced Leh-CHON), a must-try, and the street food staple Puso (rice wrapped in woven palm leaves, pronounced POO-soh).
Explore the Temple of Leah and Sirao Garden: Drive up to the mountainous areas near the city for two unique stops: the elaborate, Roman-style Temple of Leah, and the colorful Sirao Garden (See-RAH-oh), often called “Little Amsterdam.”
Local Tips & Transport
Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab): Grab (the regional equivalent of Uber/Lyft) is the most convenient and reliable way to get around Metro Cebu (Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu). Regular white taxis are also common; always ask the driver to use the meter (Say: “Meter lang, Sir/Ma’am”). Yellow taxis are exclusive for airport use and are slightly pricier.
Jeepneys: The colorful, iconic public transport of the Philippines. They are the cheapest option (fares starting under $1 USD) and follow fixed routes marked by codes (e.g., 04L, 13C). To ride: find your route, enter from the back, and pass the fare forward. To get off, knock on the roof or shout: “Lugar lang!” (Loo-GAR lang! – Stop here!).
Buses (Ceres Liner, MyBus): For long-distance travel to the north (Malapascua) or south (Moalboal, Oslob), Ceres Liner buses are the main option, departing from the North and South Bus Terminals. MyBus is a modern, air-conditioned option connecting the airport to major malls and the city center.
Tricycles and Habal-Habal: Tricycles (motorcycles with a sidecar) and Habal-Habal (motorcycle taxis, often dangerously overloaded) are used for very short distances and in rural areas where bigger vehicles can’t go. Always negotiate the price before getting in.
Ferries and Boats: To reach smaller islands like Malapascua, Bantayan, or nearby provinces like Bohol, you will need to take a ferry or a public pump boat.
Embrace Cebuano/Bisaya: While Tagalog/Filipino is the national language and English is widely spoken, the local language is Cebuano (or Bisaya). Learning a few phrases is greatly appreciated.
- Thank you: Salamat (Sah-LAH-maht)
- Please: Palihug (Pah-LEE-hoog)
- Good morning: Maayong Buntag (Mah-AH-yong BOON-tahg)
- Delicious: Lami (LAH-mee)
Dining Culture: Filipinos are generally very hospitable. Dining is a social and communal event. Lechon (roast pig) is the undisputed King of Cebuano cuisine—find a reputable vendor or restaurant and try it with Suka (vinegar) dipping sauce.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, but it is highly appreciated, especially in restaurants (where a 10% service charge may already be included) and for tour guides/drivers.
Punctuality (Filipino Time): Things rarely run strictly on schedule, especially public transport. Be patient, expect delays, and give yourself plenty of buffer time, especially when heading to the airport or a scheduled tour.
Respecting Wildlife (Oslob): The whale shark encounters in Oslob are regulated, but you must strictly follow all guidelines (no flash photography, no touching, maintain distance) to minimize your impact on the animals.
Hidden Gems:
- Taboan Public Market: A bustling, sensory experience and the best place to buy local dried seafood, which Cebu is famous for.
- Bojo River Cruise (Aloguinsan): An eco-cultural tour on a paddle boat through a winding, pristine mangrove-lined river, managed by the local community.
- Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant: Enjoy local cuisine in a picturesque setting over the water, offering great views, especially at sunset.
Top Restaurants
House of Lechon [$15-$25] – A popular, modern-casual spot that is one of the best places in the city to try the quintessential Cebuano Lechon (Leh-chohn, whole roasted pig), known for its incredibly crispy skin and distinct flavor.
STK ta Bai! Sa Paolito’s Seafood House (Capitol) [$15-$30] – A classic Cebuano “Sutukil” (Sugba – grill, Tuwa – stew, Kilaw – raw/ceviche) restaurant known for its incredibly fresh seafood, including the famous baked scallops.
Zubuchon [$15-$25] – Named after Anthony Bourdain’s declaration that Cebu has the “best pig ever,” this restaurant focuses on its signature, naturally-raised Lechon served with a blend of local herbs.
Abaseria Deli & Café [$15-$30] – A charming, rustic deli and cafe known for serving elevated Filipino and Cebuano homestyle dishes, and for selling local artisanal products and crafts.
CnT Lechon [$10-$20] – Often cited as one of the most authentic and less commercialized Lechon spots, known for its busy, no-frills setting and consistently delicious roasted pig.
Parr’t Ebelle [$10-$20] – A well-regarded local spot, highly recommended for its fresh grilled seafood and authentic Tinola (Tih-noh-lah, a savory soup), especially featuring local fish.
Marjo’s Pochero [$10-$20] – A humble and highly-reputed eatery specializing in Pochero (Poh-cheh-roh, a rich, marrow-filled beef shank stew, similar to Bulalo), a Cebuano comfort food favorite.
Lighthouse Restaurant [$15-$30] – A long-standing Cebu City institution offering a wide array of classic Filipino and local dishes in a traditional, relaxed setting, perfect for an authentic family meal.
AA BBQ [$10-$20] – A go-to, unpretentious spot popular with locals for its affordable and satisfying Filipino-style barbecued meats and fresh seafood dishes.
Lantaw Native Floating Restaurant (Cordova, Mactan) [$15-$30] – Though somewhat touristy due to the unique setting, it’s a worthy experience for its traditional Filipino food served in a floating dining room with scenic water and sunset views.
Entoy’s Bakasihan (Cordova, Mactan) [$10-$20] – Made famous by Netflix’s Street Food Asia, this unassuming waterside eatery is the place to try Nilarang na Bakasi (Nee-lah-rahng nah Bah-kah-see), a savory and slightly sour stew of reef eel.
Larang sa Pasil [$5-$15] – A collection of roadside eateries in the Pasil area famous among locals for very fresh and affordable Larang (Lah-rahng), a sour stew of fresh catch.
Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente [$5-$10] – A classic, must-try local experience where you eat affordable fried dishes and rice served on a banana leaf while sitting on a low bench (pungko means “to squat” or “to sit on one’s heels”).
Ngohiong Express (Behind CNU) [$5-$10] – Known locally for serving some of the best Ngohiong (Ngo-hee-ong, a Chinese-Filipino spring roll of spiced meat/vegetables, deep-fried) in the city, an essential Cebuano street food.
Pares Pares (N. Escario St.) [$5-$10] – Highly popular late-night spot for locals, famous for its beef Pares (Pah-res, sweet-savory beef stew served with soup and rice) and other Filipino rice meals.
Isla Sugbu Seafood City [$20-$40] – Offers a unique “paluto” or “cook-your-way” experience where you pick your incredibly fresh seafood from the market display and have it cooked to your liking.
Balay Sa Busay [$15-$30] – Offers elevated traditional Filipino dishes with a twist, featuring a beautiful mountain-top setting with a great view of the city.
Sutukil Seafood Restaurant (Mactan) [$20-$40] – Located near the Lapu-Lapu shrine, this strip of open-air restaurants offers the classic Cebuano “Sutukil” dining experience with a fantastic ocean view.
Chika-an Sa Cebu [$15-$30] – A beloved local restaurant chain known for its authentic, hearty, and comforting classic Filipino dishes.
Kusina ni Nasing [$10-$20] – A smaller, local spot known for its honest-to-goodness home-cooked Filipino meals and generous servings.
The Pig & Palm [$30-$50] – A modern European restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton, offering a playful and high-quality menu with a focus on pork dishes and creative cocktails.
Lasa (Busay) [$25-$45] – A modern Filipino restaurant with a “Bib Gourmand” mention, offering refined, progressive Filipino fare with regional soul in an open-sided terrace overlooking the city.
Circa 1900 [$25-$45] – Located in a beautifully preserved colonial house, this restaurant serves international cuisine with a subtle Filipino/Cebuano flair in an elegant, historic setting.
Bell + Amadeus [$25-$45] – Known for its innovative, global cuisine and signature dishes, including excellent pasta and creative desserts in a chic, modern setting.
Tavolata [$25-$40] – A well-regarded Italian spot in a stylish setting, offering generous, authentic Italian plates meant for sharing (Tavolata means “table” in Italian).
Weekend [$20-$40] – A modern spot known for its impressive craft beer selection and elevated comfort food like their famous “Fat Bastard” pork chop and house-ground Angus burgers.
Ilaputi [$15-$30] – A long-time Cebu favorite offering a variety of “Asian Soul Food,” a comforting fusion of Asian flavors in a chic, casual environment.
La Vie Parisienne [$10-$30] – While primarily a wine and bakery spot, it offers light French cuisine and pizzas, popular for its unique, Instagram-worthy ambiance with cherry blossom trees and outdoor seating.
La Buona Forchetta da Paolo [$20-$40] – An authentic Italian restaurant run by an Italian chef, highly praised for its traditional, fresh-made pizzas and pasta in a cozy, genuine atmosphere.
Anzani New Mediterranean Restaurant (Nivel Hills) [$30-$50] – Run by an internationally recognized chef, this spot offers “new Mediterranean cuisine” with stunning panoramic views of the city.
The Gallery at SEDA [$30-$50] – An upscale restaurant known for its contemporary take on international and Filipino dishes, often featuring live cooking stations and a refined buffet.
Pizzería Michaelangelo [$20-$35] – A local favorite for authentic, wood-fired pizzas with a thin crust and high-quality ingredients, offering a casual Italian experience.
Scape Skydeck [$20-$40] – Located on a rooftop, this bar and restaurant offers global cuisine, cocktails, and a fashionable open-air setting with scenic city views.
Enye by Chele Gonzalez [$35-$60] – Located in a resort, this modern Spanish restaurant by a top Manila-based chef is a favorite for elevated, contemporary Spanish cuisine with Filipino influences.
CUR8 [$20-$40] – A well-regarded modern restaurant with a focus on creative, contemporary cuisine, recently recognized with a Bib Gourmand mention.
Socarrat [$20-$40] – Known for authentic and well-prepared Spanish food, especially their paellas, offering a great non-touristy Spanish dining experience.
Tales and Feelings [$50-$100] – A highly-praised fine dining spot that offers a sophisticated culinary journey with a focus on international fusion, personalized service, and creative storytelling through food.
Sialo (See-yah-loh) [$70-$120] – A high-end establishment that aims to “elevate the nature of local cuisine,” offering a modernist and progressive approach to native Cebuano and regional flavors in a luxurious setting.
Mott 32 Cebu (NUSTAR) [$60-$120] – An internationally recognized fine-dining Cantonese restaurant that offers exceptional, refined Chinese cuisine in a grand, upscale setting.
Cowrie Cove (Shangri-La Mactan) [$50-$90] – Located in a top resort, this open-air, seaside seafood restaurant offers a romantic, upscale dining experience with a focus on fresh, skillfully prepared seafood.
Abaca Restaurant (Mactan) [$50-$90] – Part of a boutique resort, this restaurant is known for its exquisite, high-quality dishes, blending international cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Chateau de Busay Inn & Restaurant [$40-$70] – Known for its beautiful, elegant setting (often used for events) and sophisticated international menu, perfect for a refined meal with a view.
Blu Bar & Grill (Marco Polo Plaza) [$40-$70] – Located on the highest floor of the hotel, it offers a sophisticated menu of grilled specialties and stunning, unmatchable city views.
Hai Shin Lou Cantonese Restaurant [$40-$80] – Considered one of Cebu’s best for authentic, high-quality Cantonese and dim sum, offering a classic and refined Chinese dining experience.
Tides (Shangri-La Mactan) [$40-$60] – A high-quality international buffet known for its vast selection of world cuisine, often considered a top-tier hotel dining experience.
Kazuwa Prime (NUSTAR) [$50-$90] – An upscale Japanese restaurant offering high-quality ingredients, particularly known for its refined sushi and sashimi selections.
Mercado Sugbo (IT Park) [$5-$20] – A massive, flagship food market with over 60 stalls, offering a diverse mix of local favorites, novelty food items, and Asian/Western cuisine—a perfect food-trip destination.
Tuslob Buwa (Various locations, e.g., 8flix) [$5-$15] – A unique, communal street food experience where you cook and dip rice balls into a thick, simmering gravy made of pork liver and brain (tuslob buwa means “dip into bubbles”).
Feria (Radisson Blu Cebu) [$30-$50] – A popular, upscale hotel buffet that offers a wide array of global cuisine, from Filipino to Indian and Japanese, known for its extensive spread.
Maya Mexican Restaurant [$20-$40] – Offers a delightful fusion of Southern California and Mexican flavors, known for its delicious tacos, burritos, and signature cocktails.
Yushoken (Oakridge) [$20-$35] – A highly-regarded spot for authentic Japanese ramen, specializing in rich, flavorful broths and perfectly cooked noodles.
Dimsum Break [$5-$15] – A local, fast-food style chain famous for its classic Cebuano steamed rice (Steamed Fried Rice) and unique take on dim sum.
Luy’s Classic Tea House [$15-$30] – A popular spot for high-quality, authentic Chinese cuisine and dim sum, often frequented by local families.
The Barracks (Carbon Market area) [$5-$15] – A cluster of eateries near Carbon Market where you can find honest, cheap, and very local food, including excellent Ngohiong.
Cebu Yacht Club (Lapu-Lapu City) [$25-$40] – Offers casual dining with a great view of the yachts and the sea, known for its relaxing atmosphere and good international food selection.
Bossing Lechon (Liloan) [$15-$25] – A place known for its excellent Lechon outside the main city, highly recommended by locals for its traditional cooking method and flavorful pork.
Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant (SRP) [$15-$30] – An alternative branch of Lantaw that also offers a native dining experience with great water views, located near the SM Seaside mall.
The Weekend (Mandaue) [$20-$40] – Known for its focus on premium ingredients and proper techniques, offering elevated Western dishes like dry-aged steaks and gourmet burgers.
Gerry’s Grill [$15-$30] – A popular Filipino chain known for its grilled dishes and extensive menu of classic Filipino appetizers and main courses, perfect for group dining.
Nonki Japanese Restaurant [$20-$40] – A long-standing, well-regarded Japanese restaurant with several branches, known for its fresh sushi, tempura, and authentic Japanese fare.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Social: Located in the Ayala Center Cebu, this industrial-chic bar is a staple for the local crowd, offering craft cocktails and a spacious outdoor terrace perfect for city people-watching.
La Vie Parisienne: Situated in Lahug, Cebu City, this famous French-style wine library and pink-lit garden offers a magical setting for enjoying cocktails and fine wines under glowing cherry blossom trees.
The Distillery: A popular spot in Crossroads, Banilad, known for its extensive selection of imported spirits and a moody, pub-like atmosphere that draws a stylish urban crowd.
Trademark: Found in Mandaue City, this trendy bar focuses on high-quality craft cocktails and hip-hop music, acting as a bridge between a refined lounge and a high-energy pre-game spot.
Scrapyard: A quirky, vintage-themed bar in the heart of Cebu City that utilizes recycled materials for its décor, specializing in unique local infusions and a relaxed, artsy vibe.
Bellini Champagne Lounge: Located at the panoramic Nivel Hills, this upscale lounge offers breathtaking views of the Cebu City skyline alongside a premium selection of champagnes and signature cocktails.
The Weekend: A sophisticated gastropub in Banilad that prides itself on “real” cocktails and craft beers, featuring an impressive collection of single-malt whiskies.
Ambiance: Located in the vibrant IT Park, this bar lives up to its name with plush seating and soft lighting, offering a wide array of classic cocktails for professionals and night owls.
Straight Up Rooftop Bar: Perched atop the Seda Hotel in Cebu IT Park, this sleek rooftop venue provides a 360-degree view of the city and is the premier spot for sunset drinks and lounge music.
Azzurro: An elegant beachside lounge within the Jpark Island Resort in Mactan, where guests can enjoy tropical cocktails with a direct view of the Hilutungan Channel.
Coral Seaside Bar: Located at the Jpark Island Resort in Mactan, this open-air bar offers a stunning Mediterranean vibe and refreshing frozen cocktails right by the ocean’s edge.
Panorama at Ocean Vida: Situated on the white sands of Malapascua Island (North Cebu), this chill-out bar is famous for its bean bags on the sand and signature fruit-based cocktails.
The Pig & Palm: A Michelin-standard social space in Cebu Business Park created by Jason Atherton, offering some of the most inventive and technically precise cocktails in the Philippines.
F Bar: A stylish, upscale venue in the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, known for its extensive drink list and live piano music that sets a sophisticated tone.
League Sports Bar: Found in the Panagdait area, this is a more casual cocktail spot where you can enjoy a well-made drink while catching international sports on large screens.
Icon: The most famous mega-club in Cebu City, located in Mabolo. It features world-class light shows, massive LED screens, and a rotating roster of international DJs playing EDM and Top 40.
Sentral: A premier hip-hop and R&B club in Mandaue City, known for its high-profile guest list, VIP tables, and a dance floor that stays packed until the early morning.
OQtagon: An immense, “octagon-shaped” warehouse club in Mandaue that provides an immersive electronic music experience with state-of-the-art sound systems.
Ibiza Beach Club: Located at the Mövenpick Resort in Mactan, this is Cebu’s most iconic beach club, famous for its nightly theatrical performances, fire dancers, and oceanfront DJ sets.
Club Holic: Situated on Mango Avenue, the historic heart of Cebu’s nightlife, this club offers a high-energy atmosphere focused on local party vibes and affordable drink buckets.
F Cafe & Bar: A hybrid venue in Kasambagan that transforms from a stylish cafe into a high-energy club at night, popular with the local “it” crowd for its open-air dance floor.
The Vault: A high-end, exclusive club located within the Nustar Resort and Casino, offering a luxury nightlife experience with premium bottle service and a sophisticated interior.
Verified Lounge: A rooftop club in the Amani Grand Citygate (Mandaue) that offers a “party in the sky” feel with house music and panoramic views of the Mactan-Cebu bridge.
Kazmik Club: Formerly known as Lotus, this long-standing club in Lapu-Lapu City (Mactan) is a favorite for tourists and locals looking for commercial hits and a spacious dance floor.
Apex Super Club: A modern, high-tech nightclub in the city center that features futuristic décor and focuses heavily on the local electronic dance music scene.