Philippines · City Guide
Cebu
Cebu is the Philippines' second largest city and one of its most historically significant, the site of Ferdinand Magellan's arrival and the country's oldest Spanish settlement, combining significant colonial heritage including the Basilica del Santo Niño and Magellan's Cross, outstanding beach resorts on nearby islands, world class diving including whale shark encounters at Oslob and the famous Kawasan Falls canyoneering experience. As a gateway to some of the Philippines' finest island and marine experiences, Cebu rewards both history and adventure.
Elect's take
"Cebu has a historical significance that surprises many visitors who arrive primarily for the beaches. The combination of the oldest Spanish heritage in the Philippines with outstanding diving, the whale shark encounters and the dramatic canyoneering creates a genuinely complete destination."
The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines, houses the venerated image of the Santo Niño and represents the beginning of Christianity in the country. Magellan's Cross marks the site of the first Catholic baptism in the Philippines in 1521. The whale shark encounters at Oslob, approximately 3 hours south of Cebu City, provide close interactions with these gentle giants in their natural feeding grounds. Kawasan Falls in Badian provides outstanding canyoneering through a series of waterfalls and turquoise pools. The islands surrounding Cebu, including Mactan and Bantayan, provide beautiful beach resort experiences and excellent diving.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Basilica del Santo Niño
The oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines and the cradle of Philippine Christianity.
Magellan's Cross
Marking the site of the first Catholic baptism in the Philippines in 1521.
Oslob Whale Sharks
Close encounters with whale sharks at their natural feeding grounds approximately 3 hours away.
Kawasan Falls
Outstanding canyoneering through turquoise pools and waterfalls in Badian.
Mactan Island Beaches
Beautiful beach resorts and excellent diving on the island adjacent to Cebu City.
World Class Diving
Outstanding diving across the islands surrounding Cebu including Bantayan and Malapascua.
