Attractions
Cebu City is a bustling city located in the Philippines. It’s home to numerous attractions that are worth exploring. From beautiful beaches to historical sites and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in Cebu City.
In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the top attractions in Cebu City, which are sure to keep you busy:
Magellan’s Cross
Magellan’s Cross is a Christian cross planted by Portuguese and Spanish explorers during the first circumnavigation of the world, led by the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. The original Cross has long since burned away, but it was replaced with a wooden one and encased in a giant tindalo wood structure that has become an important religious site in Cebu City.
The Cross is located near Fuente Osmeña Circle and has become a popular spot for pilgrimages and photo ops – thousands of visitors flock to this spot each year to witness its historical significance. A white roof atop the structure contains numerous embedded church relics such as blessed palms, Rosary beads, coins, and other mementos from neighboring parishes or coconut shells collected from sea voyages. Suspended over the ancient wooden Cross is an ornate oval frame filled with painted images depicting important figures from Christianity, including Catholic saints and scenes from the life of Jesus Christ.
Magellan’s Cross may be Cebu City’s most famous attraction. Still, it also offers much more than just sightseeing opportunities – it serves as an important cultural hub that binds those who have faith in Christianity into one spiritual community. Visitors can participate in lively processions on special occasions or absorb the rich history surrounding this timeless symbol of faith.
Taoist Temple
The colorful Taoist Temple in Cebu City, Philippines, offers locals and tourists a unique insight into the local culture and beliefs. It was built in 1972 by the Philippine Chinese community, and this temple is considered the highlight of Chinatown.
The entrance to the temple is well-guarded by two stone lions, believed to be guardians of gods. The interior grounds are comprised of temples dedicated to various deities, such as Zues and Guan Yin, with statues of Buddha at the entrance. Inside you can find multiple trinkets and offerings placed on tables for sale, which devotees make during religious activities or festivities to bring good luck or fortune.
The atmosphere changes depending on whether people are worshipping, but when it is quiet, it can still provide a peaceful and calming experience for those visiting. In addition, a visit to the Taoist Temple provides an exciting glimpse into the tradition’s ancient beliefs and practices, allowing visitors to experience a rich spiritual culture from another part of the world.
Fort San Pedro
Fort San Pedro is the oldest Roman Catholic fort in the Philippines, initially built in 1738 by Spanish settlers and occupying a strategic site in Cebu City. Referred to as Fuerza de San Pedro in Spanish, this small triangular fortress effectively defended what was an important port city from attack from foreign forces.
The fort sits atop a hill overlooking Cebu’s seafront, with 24-meter (78 feet) walls surrounding an inner court area or patio. The grounds feature canons and other relics from when they were used to protect against marauders. In addition to its historical significance, Fort San Pedro offers stunning views of downtown Cebu, Mactan Island, and Bohol Strait offshore.
At the base of the hill lies Plaza Indepencia, offering visitors park and leisure facilities, including a playground for children and walking paths lined with trees and native plants. Inside this area are several restaurants selling traditional Filipino cuisine and other souvenir shops selling local crafts. Exploring Fort San Pedro, visitors will gain insight into how life was during colonial times living under Spanish rule.
The fort is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with free admission for all visitors who want to learn more about this historical landmark in Cebu City, Philippines!
Shopping
Cebu City is well known for its vibrant culture and diverse shopping options. So if you’re looking to shop until you drop, Cebu has something for everyone. From traditional markets to international retailers, you’re sure to find whatever you’re looking for.
Let’s look at some of the popular shopping spots in Cebu City:
Ayala Center Cebu
Ayala Center Cebu is a shopping mall located in the heart of the city, and it’s a fantastic place to go for all kinds of shopping needs. It offers everything you need in one place, including dining, entertainment, and services. With over 400 shops and restaurants, finding what you need is easy.
The mall has a selection of international designer boutiques, local brands, and department stores such as Toys R Us, Ace Hardware, Uniqlo, and Scout Store. There are also dozens of fashion outlets to choose from. You can find all sorts of goodies – from sunglasses to handbags – plus accessories like jewelry, bags, and shoes.
The lower ground floor is filled with restaurants offering varieties ranging from Filipino cuisine to Italian dishes; there are plenty of fast food options for snacks or light meals on the go. In addition, there are cinemas where you can watch movies or hang out with friends to add to the relaxing atmosphere of the mall.
Ayala Center Cebu also hosts several events throughout the year; these range from product launches to kids’ activities, so make sure you check before you go so you don’t miss out on anything! Last but not least – make sure you have cash if you’re looking for souvenirs – many spots don’t accept card payments!
SM City Cebu
SM City Cebu is the largest shopping mall in Cebu City and the biggest of SM Prime Holdings’ chains on the island of Cebu. It is located in the North Reclamation Area and has a total gross floor area of 247,763 square meters. The mall opened to the public on May 28, 2015, after more than two years of construction.
SM City Cebu offers a vast array of retail stores for shoppers and dining options after a hard day’s shopping. There is a wide selection of clothing lines, such as Zara and Uniqlo, and more budget-friendly options, like H&M, Forever 21, Bench/Store, and Penshoppe. High-end brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada are also available. Furthermore, electronics shops like Panasonic Store, Powermac Centers, and iShop offer trending gadgets at affordable prices, amongst other products.
The mall also features leisure activities such as cinemas which offer movie-goers a variety of choices ranging from 2D movies to 4DX cinemas with motion seat technology for an immersive viewing experience. Other attractions include:
- Bowling alleys;
- Arcades;
- Indoor playgrounds;
- Ice skating rinks;
- Virtual reality rides;
- Fun walls;
- 3D optical illusion galleries;
- Billiards halls with private rooms;
- And much more!
Its wide array of shopping centers and entertainment options makes SM City Cebu an ideal destination for all shoppers looking for convenience and relaxation!
Robinson’s Place Cebu
Robinson’s Place Cebu is the ultimate shopping destination in Cebu, Philippines. It is located in the heart of Cebu City and offers an exciting shopping experience for everyone who loves to shop. The mall has many stores and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets, making it one of the city’s most popular shopping places.
The main attractions at Robinson’s Place Cebu are its 600 retail outlets that accommodate shoppers with various products, including local products, imported items, and international fashion brands. There are also several department stores where shoppers can find what they need quickly and easily. Besides shopping, visitors can also enjoy dining at one of the many restaurants that offer different types of food, from Filipino dishes to Italian cuisine. There is a cinema where film lovers can watch their favorite movies or catch up on their must-see movies in 4D.
The mall regularly holds special promos for shoppers, which include discounts, contests, car shows, and art performances. However, suppose you’re looking for more than just shopping. In that case, Robinson’s Place Cebu has an events lobby that hosts live music shows, other entertainment activities, and flea markets for bargain hunters and avid collectors alike!
So come down to Robinson’s Place Cebu today for an enjoyable shopping experience!
Nature and Adventure
If you’re looking for adventure and nature-based activities, Cebu City, Philippines, is the perfect destination. From its stunning beaches to breathtaking waterfalls, Cebu has something for everyone who loves the outdoors.
Here, we’ll look at some of the top things to do in Cebu City to make the most out of experiencing nature and the great outdoors:
Osmena Peak
Osmeña Peak is a popular destination for nature and adventure seekers visiting Cebu City, Philippines. Standing at 1,013 meters (3,324 ft.), the peak offers fantastic views of the nearby towns and cities. Located within the tropical rainforested Mantalongon mountain range, Osmeña Peak is ideal for hiking and camping. There are several trails to choose from, including easy hikes (about 1 km) to more challenging treks, which can take up to 3 hours one-way with steep ascents and descents.
At the peak of Osmeña Peak, visitors can enjoy spectacular scenery featuring lush forest views and picturesque landscapes. It offers a perfect setting to take pictures while admiring the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Aside from taking in the stunning scenery, visitors can also experience local cuisine by visiting nearby restaurants, such as Cebu’s very own Yaparungan Restaurant & Barista Blend Cafe, which serves delectable Filipino dishes such as crispy pata and beef tapa.
Overall, Osmeña Peak is an ideal destination for those looking for an adrenaline rush and a peaceful retreat away from city life. So if you plan to visit Cebu City, don’t forget to add Osmeña Peak to your list!
Kawasan Falls
Kawasan Falls is one of Cebu City, Philippines’ most famous and breathtaking locations. A quick car ride or a more adventurous trek through the jungle can reach this stunning three-tiered waterfall. The view of the turquoise lagoon beneath the falls and the jade-colored plants surrounding its perimeter will surely leave you breathless.
It is suggested that you take advantage of what Kawasan Falls has to offer to make your visit the most enjoyable, such as:
- bamboo rafting
- swimming in its cool waters
- exploring cave systems nearby
- hiking along numerous trails
As visitors explore each tier of Kawasan Falls, they are taken deeper into its beautiful landscape, discovering new waterfalls and surprises waiting around every corner. In addition, thrill seekers are offered a chance to jump from a platform or rappel down one of the tiers for an even bigger adrenaline rush!
With so many unique activities, Kawasan Falls is loved by adventure insiders and tourists alike – don’t miss this unforgettable experience when in Cebu City!
Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary
Located southeast of Cebu, the Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary is an important wetland ecosystem and home to an astounding variety of plants and animals. Stretching across over 6,000 hectares, the marine sanctuary’s mangroves, beach forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs provide vital habitats and resources for local fishermen. In addition, the flats around Olango named a Ramsar site in 2012 in recognition of their global importance as a migratory stopover site for nearly 95% of Central Philippines’ shorebird species.
The island’s most famous inhabitant was an abstract sculptor, Pak Wanzal, who lived among the mangrove swamps from 1962 to 2006. His striking works are now displayed all around Cebu City.
A cruise offshore will get you close to the island’s many residents, from butterflies to crocodiles to nesting sea turtles along its brackish shores. Furthermore, divers around Olango can spot some 700 fish species existing within its seagrass beds and coral reefs – some unique only to this island ecosystem! Guided birdwatching tours offer excellent opportunities for sighting water birds such as egrets, herons, ibises, godwits, and terns that feed on small crustaceans found along banks of bays near the mainland.
Popular activities include:
- Kayaking amongst the sprawling swamplands at high tide
- Dives in search of vibrant soft corals during low tide seasons.
For explorers looking for a more laidback adventure amidst nature’s wonders with minimal human presence, – Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary awaits!
Food and Drinks
Cebu City offers a wide range of delicious and unique food and drinks. From traditional Filipino fare to tasty street food, there is something for everyone. Local specialties like lechon, sutukil, and kinilaw are a must-try. There are also plenty of delicious drinks like tsokolate and buko juice.
Let’s dive in and discover all the amazing food and drinks this vibrant city has to offer:
Larsian BBQ
One of the most famous spots to eat in Cebu City is Larsian BBQ. Located in the city center at Fuente Osmeña Circle, Larsian BBQ is known for its delicious and aromatic grilled goods featured in their ‘sutukil’ or sugba (grilled), tinola (boiled), and kilaw (raw) dishes.
With a wide variety of food to choose from, such as pork, chicken, seafood, and even snake meat, there’s something for everyone. The succulent and tender meats are cooked over hot charcoal until perfectly charred and served with chili garlic sauce or sweet patis dressing – lip-smacking! Paired with a cold beer, your meal will surely be an experience you won’t forget.
Zubuchon Lechon
For visitors to Cebu City, the must-try local cuisine is lechon. This mouth-watering dish is roasted pig, marinated in different herbs and spices before being cooked over hot coals until crispy. Travelers should stop by Zubuchon Lechon, which specializes in traditional Cebu-style lechon, to get a taste.
Zubuchon has several branches throughout the city and one at Mactan International Airport for those who are too short on time to visit before boarding their flight. All of their locations serve up a variety of accompaniments alongside the delicious roasted pig–garlic rice, a native dessert called “kutsinta,” and favorite regional condiments like Manila clam sauce and Pangasinan white vinegar.
In addition to their signature product – lechon – they also offer:
- Grilled pork belly skewers in assorted flavors like garlic lemon or honey soy ginger;
- Signature sandwiches, including delectable pulled pork sliders with Zubuchon’s special homemade spicy mayo;
- Steamed fresh fish; shrimp siomai; salmon salads; and a delicious selection of tapas dishes like squid balls and chicken longganisa.
At Zubuchon Lechon, you can enjoy more than just one-of-a-kind Cebuano delicacies! The restaurant also serves classic drinks such as beerlee (beer + calamansi), mango shakes, vegetable juices, frappes, and watermelon cooler concoctions. Finally, end your meal with the signature dessert bites – butter cookies topped with cashew crunch, coconut sprinkles, or tsokolate (local chocolate).
Cebu’s Famous Dried Mangoes
Cebu is well known for its various varieties of dried mango, which are popular with tourists and locals. The most popular variety of dried mango found in Cebu City is the salidangdang. It is believed to be the oldest version of dried mango, having been made since pre-Hispanic times. This type of dried mango is typically made from unripe fruits and has a sour flavor as opposed to the ripe ones that are much sweeter.
Another popular variety found in Cebu is the suha. It has a slightly less sour flavor than the salidangdang but a slightly smoky aroma from slow-cooking over open flames until it is nicely browned. Another version that can be found around Cebu City is lapis-lapis – this one uses only ripe mangoes and has an even sweeter taste. This type is usually cut into thin slices, which makes it an ideal snack on the go or accompaniment to cakes and other desserts.
These dried mangoes make great souvenirs, lasting up to several months without refrigeration, making them ideal snacks to take home with you or give away as gifts. In addition, plenty of treats are available using these types of dried mangoes, such as marmalades, jams, and muffins – making them a sweet yet healthy way to experience their unique flavors.
Nightlife
Cebu City is a vibrant and thriving city that comes alive at night. The city has a wide variety of nightlife, ranging from upscale bars live music venues, and high-energy nightclubs. Here is a rundown of the best nightspots in Cebu City that you can check out:
- Upscale bars
- Live music venues
- High-energy nightclubs
Sky Experience Adventure
Sky Experience Adventure is a one-of-a-kind observation deck located on the third and fourth floors of Crown Regency’s Tower 2. It gives you a breathtaking 360-degree bird’s eye view of the Carolina city from hundreds of feet above the ground. On top of that, it also features an Edge Coaster, unbelievable virtual kind rides, and numerous bars wherein guests can witness Cebu City’s illuminating nightscape.
According to its website, The Edge Coaster is a “50-meter four-seated thrill ride known to give riders the most panoramic views of the city while seated facing forwards and backward, making turns like sharp hairpin bends. Ensure everyone has something worthy to talk about or share online post-visit.” Aside from this unique attraction, this premier leisure destination also has gourmet restaurants such as Café Gaudí and Bar 360º.
If you want some real adventure, you can do several activities per their motto — defy gravity! For example, sky Walk Extreme is wherein visitors can traverse through 600 meters elevated Walkway more than 100 meters above the ground together with a knowledgeable guide who will make sure everything is done safely; zipline is where visitors fly over a few hundred meters for unforgettable scenery accompanied by their team facilitator fitted in full safety gears; and Sky Glider which allows participants to hang on suspended ropes “seemingly suspended over space for an adrenaline rush experience!”
There are many exciting activities available at Sky Experience Adventure that can excite your senses. So why not come and experience it firsthand?
The Social
The Social is Cebu’s hottest nightspot in the city’s heart. This excellent club serves various alcoholic beverages and plays the hottest music from all genres. Featuring plush interiors and an impressive bar, The Social is a great option to enjoy a sophisticated evening with friends or family.
Regularly hosting international DJs and events and renowned Filipino talents, The Social provides ample opportunity to party any night of the week. Additionally, guests can enjoy good food options with excellent service just seconds from the prestigious Casa Verde Restaurant. Make sure to arrive early, as tables fill up quickly during peak hours!
Club Paraw
Club Paraw is a vibrant outdoor club on Mactan Island with great music, drinks, and dancing. Located close to other popular nightlife areas, such as Lapu-Lapu City and Mactan Island, Club Paraw is an excellent option for those who wish to experience the unique party atmosphere of Cebu City.
With an impressive view of the Mactan Channel, guests can admire the coast’s beauty while they groove to international and alternative music played by some of the best DJs in town. A spacious open-air bar area offers a variety of beverages to suit all tastes – from ice-cold beers to refreshing fruit cocktails.
The club is characterized by its exotic atmosphere filled with palm trees, shrubs, and twinkling lights, creating an unforgettable night out. Dance away to the hypnotic beats past midnight in an unrivaled festive environment. It is an ideal place for groups seeking a great party experience in Cebu City.