Cebu City is the capital of Cebu province in Central Visayas. Although famous abroad because of the tourist resorts that line the shores of nearby Mactan Island, Cebu City is rich in history—it was the site of the first Spanish settlement, the first capital of the Philippines, and the point from which Christianity spread throughout the country.
The main language in Cebu is Cebuano, more commonly known as Bisaya. However, being a strong center of commerce and tourism the general level of English is good, and you certainly won’t have any problems in the hotels.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the entrance point for the majority of visitors. This is actually located on Mactan Island in Lapu-Lapu City. While technically a separate jurisdiction, “Cebu” is broadly thought of as encompassing this area in the minds of travellers. The waterfront of Lapu-Lapu City is where you’ll find most of the resort-style hotels with private beaches and luxurious pools. In contrast, Cebu City is far more bustling, polluted, and congested—a sort of smaller version of Manila. Despite many tourists staying on Mactan Island, Cebu City still offers a good number of sightseeing spots and things to do.
Things to Do
Former house of Jesuit priests built in the 18th century
Popular shopping mall in Cebu City with plenty of restaurants
Basilica built upon the site where the Santo Niño de Cebú was discovered
The oldest farmer’s market in Cebu and a good place to buy handicrafts
Major cathedral which serves as the ecclesiastical seat of the Archdiocese of Cebu
Taoist temple in the suburbs of Cebu built by the city’s Chinese community in 1972. Good views over the city.
Defense structure built by the Spanish in 1565
Small family-run butterfly sanctuary that has been open to the public since 1974
A Christian cross planted by Portuguese and Spanish explorers in March 1521
Former provincial jail that is now home to Cebu’s provincial museum
Garden opened in 2016 known for its many celosia flowers
Popular food market famous for selling danggit or dried rabbitfish
Flower terrace botanical garden outside the city home to 120 species of flower
Famous viewpoint that looks over Cebu City
