Itineraries for Your Trip to Cebu
3 Days in Cebu for First Timers
By the time I reached Cebu, I’d already fallen madly in love with the Philippines. I’d visited Insta-famous parts of Palawan and the more secluded mountains of Sagada, so I was curious to see what Cebu had to offer. It turns out, the highlights of this Visayas island range from historic churches and highland gardens to turquoise canyons.
That said, you’ll need at least three days in Cebu if you want to explore beyond the city center and see some of the natural landscapes it's so famous for. But don’t be deceived by the map—the island’s attractions are dazzling yet dispersed, so gear up for plenty of time on the road. Here’s how to spend 72 hours in Cebu.
If you only have time for one thing, make it swimming among whale sharks.
For the clearest skies and calmest water for spotting whale sharks, visit Cebu from December through May.
Start day one by getting acquainted with Cebu’s underwater wonders at Cebu Ocean Park, the largest aquarium in the Philippines, home to marine life ranging from sharks and starfish to tropical fish and turtles.
Then dedicate the afternoon to exploring Cebu City, where rich culture, colonial architecture, and a tempting food scene combine. Tick off plenty of must-see Cebu attractions on a sightseeing tour that covers Magellan’s Cross, a symbol of Cebu’s heritage, and admire the mixture of architectural styles at the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, which boasts the title of one of the Philippines' oldest residences.
Today is bound to be one you'll remember, as you'll spend the morning swimming alongside whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, on a day trip to Oslob, where the enormous marine creatures congregate. Tunalog Falls, a cascade famous for its turquoise water, is also on the cards.
After a busy day at sea, reacclimatize to dry land on an evening tour that not only reveals monuments when they’re illuminated, but also gives you a taste of Cebu’s street food scene. Sample local favorites such as Cebu lechon: pork that's perfectly roasted for crispy skin.
Just off the coast of Cebu lies the tiny island of Bohol. Home to the Chocolate Hills, a National Monument, and a sanctuary dedicated to wide-eyed tarsiers, it's an excellent choice of excursion for your third day. You'll also enjoy the shade of a mahogany forest and cruise down the Loboc River on a traditional wooden boat.
Now that you've appreciated the city from land and sea, direct your attention to Cebu when it's brilliantly illuminated on a nightlife tour that takes you to some of the best bars and clubs. It's the ideal way to toast your time on one of the Philippines' most dazzling islands.
