Cebu is one of the most beautiful cities in the Philippines. Comprising Cebu Island and over 150 smaller surrounding islands of the Pacific, Cebu boasts a plethora of natural treasures.
From the colonial streets of its port capital to wildlife on the islands, Cebu offers remarkable experiences in terms of food, arts, culture, natural beauty, and island life. The scenery in Cebu ranges from metropolitan to mountainous and tropical.
Whether you are looking for action-packed outdoor adventures or electrifying indoor activities, the Queen City of the South caters to travellers of all stripes. If you are travelling to Cebu in 2022, you must visit the following tourist spots:
1. Oslob
Located at the southern tip of Cebu. Oslob is a small coastal town famous for Whale Shark watching. Hundreds of people from all over the world come here to relish watching and swimming with the largest fish on the planet.
The quickest way to reach is via a direct flight to Cebu as the tourist magnet is about 6 miles from the city centre. Layover Dubai to Cebu flights are also a quick option. The best time to visit Oslob is during the months of December, January, and February when it’s neither too hot nor too cold.
2. Kawasan Falls
Kawasan Falls is a three-layered waterfall plunging into natural swimming pools and lagoons in Badian, Cebu. Nicknamed “Gatorade Factory”, Kawasan Falls is the most popular waterfall in all of the Philippines.
The trio of picturesque waterfalls is accessible via jungle trails. The place is a haven for photographers and offers a wide range of adventurous activities.
3. Colon Street
Colon Street is the oldest and shortest national road in the Philippines. Named after Christopher Columbus, the historical street features establishments from the colonial period including the University of Cebu, the University of San Carlos, and the University of San Jose – Recoletos.
If you are visiting Cebu during December, you can witness extravagant Christmas decor throughout Colon Street. The street also features many movie theatres, cafes, and fashionable shops.
4. Bantayan Island
Located at the northernmost tip of Cebu, Bantayan Island is an exquisite beach destination featuring ravishing beaches and ecotourism sites where you can indulge in a myriad of outdoor activities including swimming, island-hopping, kayaking, skydiving, sightseeing, swimming, and cliff diving.
In addition to thrilling water activities, you can fill your days with gastronomic adventures and feast on the freshest seafood dishes, such as Filipino-style rabbitfish.
5. Temple of Leah
Temple of Leah is the Filipino version of India’s Taj Mahal, except it’s not a mausoleum. It is home to the memorabilia of the late Leah Albino-Adarna whose husband reportedly spent 80 million pesos to build this temple as a symbol of his eternal love for her.
Located atop a hill in Busay, the Temple of Leah features magnificent Roman-style architecture that attracts hundreds of tourists from all over the world every year.
6. Waterworld Cebu
Waterworld Cebu is a water theme park spanning three hectares in Mandaue City, Cebu. It is the city’s newest water park with a gigantic water playground featuring 10 sets of gut-wrenching slides, 9 sets of water slides for kids, and other water contraptions.
The park features a giant wave pool that can accommodate up to 1,500 people who can create one-metre waves. It is an ideal place to enjoy water sports with friends and family on an uncomfortably hot day.
7. Fort San Pedro
A military defence structure built by the Spanish, Fort San Pedro is a great place to discover the rich history of Cebu. Located in the pier area of Cebu, Fort San Pedro is the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines. The fort features a garden, leisure park, and museum housing well-preserved Spanish artefacts.
8. Sirao Flower Garden
Sirao Flower Garden is famous as the little Amsterdam of Cebu. The beautiful tourist spot is only a 40 minutes drive from the city centre. On arrival, you can explore an impressive variety of flowers including celosia, tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
As you stroll across the spacious fields, the tantalising aroma of the colourful flowers cleanses your mind of all the worries.
9. The Pyramid
The Pyramid is a magnificent dining spot featuring sensational architecture similar to Paris’ Louvre Museum. Located on Geonzon Street in the west of Cebu, The Pyramid is a classy bistro specialising in fusion cuisine.
Whether you want to have a true Italian dinner or enjoy a world-class selection of wines, The Pyramid is a perfect place for evening meals.
10. Casa Gorordo Museum
Located on Eduardo Aboitiz Street in the historic Parian area of Cebu, Casa Gorordo Museum was built in the 1850s. It is the former residence of Juan Gorordo, the first Filipino bishop of Cebu during the American occupation.
The museum features antique furniture, wood carvings, household items, religious images, paintings, period costumes, decorative art, and tools for baking, cooking, and farming. As you explore the objet d’art at Casa Gorordo Museum, you can enjoy fresh coffee and sandwiches from the on-site cafe.
11. Osmeña Peak
Osmeña Peak is the highest mountain in Cebu, standing 1,013 metres above sea level. It is a popular hiking destination with hundreds of miles of trails nestled between rugged hills. You can enjoy a fog-less view from the top of the mountain between March and May. The mountain top overlooks Cebu Island.
12. Cebu Safari & Adventure Park
Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is a premier Safari park that serves as a refuge for thousands of different plants and animals. Adventure-seekers and outdoorists from all over the world come here to escape into something daring and marvellous.
Located on the top of the exquisite hills of Carmen, Cebu Safari & Adventure Park is an hour’s drive from the city centre. It is the largest zoological park in the Philippines with 120 different species of animals.
13. Solea Mactan Resort
Solea Mactan Resort is an iconic spot to have a memorable time with friends and family. It is one of the best summer getaways in Cebu.
The ritzy resort offers luxurious accommodations, fine food, access to the beach, and many indoor and outdoor recreations. Locals and visitors come here to unwind and flush out the city toxins.
