Considered a dazzling gem nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Cebu is a beautiful island province in the central part of the country, renowned for its diverse offerings that range from white-sand beaches and vibrant marine life to historical sites and a bustling city. It serves as a major hub, blending rich cultural heritage with exciting adventure opportunities, making it a popular destination for all types of travelers.
Often hailed as the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu is a destination that truly caters to every type of wanderer. Whether you’re an intrepid adventure seeker yearning for thrilling encounters with whale sharks, a curious history buff eager to explore ancient Spanish forts and colonial churches, or simply someone dreaming of unwinding on pristine beaches kissed by turquoise waters, Cebu promises an unmatched array of experiences.
This meticulously crafted 7-day itinerary is your ultimate guide, designed to ensure you uncover the very best of what this incredible island province has to offer, from the bustling, historic streets of its vibrant cities to the serene, verdant hills and the spectacular, vibrant marine life teeming beneath its waves. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Exploring Cebu City’s Historical Wonders
Upon arrival at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, get ready for a day full of cultural immersion and historical exploration. To ensure you’re ready for your first exciting day, it’s recommended to download a super app like Grab before your flight. Through Grab, you can easily book rides and order meals from local favorites, settling bills seamlessly with your linked domestic card. This allows you to enjoy cashless transactions and upfront payments, eliminating any worries managing local currency conversions.
Morning: Historical Sites and Breakfast
Start your day with a visit to Magellan’s Cross, a symbol of Cebu’s rich history and Spanish heritage. Just a stone’s throw away is the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu, home to the oldest religious relic in the Philippines.
For breakfast, head to Café Laguna, known for its traditional Filipino dishes and serene ambiance.
Afternoon: Museums and Lunch
- Explore the Cebu Heritage Monument, an artistic representation of Cebu’s history in a single sculpture.
- Visit the Casa Gorordo Museum and delve into the lifestyle of a Filipino family during the Spanish era.
- Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at House of Lechon, where you can taste the best Lechon (roasted pig) in town.
Evening: Tops Lookout and Dinner
End your day with a scenic ride to Tops Lookout, offering a spectacular panoramic view of Cebu City and beyond. It’s the perfect spot for sunset views.
Check into one of Agoda.com’s highly-rated accommodations in Cebu City for a well-deserved rest, ready to embark on tomorrow’s adventure.
Day 2: Adventure at Oslob and Sumilon Island
It’s an early start today as you head south to Oslob, known for its gentle giant whale sharks. Be prepared for an unforgettable snorkeling adventure!
Morning: Swimming with Whale Sharks
Rise early and take a comfortable bus or arrange for a private car through Agoda.com to Oslob. Upon arrival, join a guided boat tour to swim and snorkel with the whale sharks. It’s an experience of a lifetime, allowing you to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.
Lunch: Tumalog Falls
After your whale shark encounter, make a stop at Tumalog Falls for a quick dip in its cool, turquoise waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a refreshing escape. For lunch, enjoy picnic-style meals prepared by locals, highlighting Cebuano cuisines.
Afternoon: Sumilon Island
The adventure continues with a boat ride to the breathtaking Sumilon Island. Spend the afternoon lounging on its pristine white sandbar, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or exploring the island’s lush nature trails.
Before heading back to the mainland, don’t forget to capture the picturesque sunset that Sumilon offers, making it a perfect end to an adventurous day.
Evening: Dinner in Oslob
Upon returning to Oslob, treat yourself to a sumptuous seafood dinner at one of the town’s local restaurants. Fresh catches of the day promise a delightful meal.
Check-in at an accommodation in Oslob, recommended by Agoda.com, ensuring a restful night’s sleep after a day full of activities.
Day 3: Cultural Tour in Cebu City and a Relaxing Evening
After two adventure-packed days, spend today immersed in the cultural richness and relaxed pace of Cebu City itself.
Morning: Fort San Pedro and Museo Sugbo
Begin your day at Fort San Pedro, the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines, offering a glimpse into the country’s colonial past. Then, head to Museo Sugbo, located in the former Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center, for a deep dive into Cebu’s history.
Enjoy breakfast at one of the quaint cafés nearby, offering a fusion of local and international flavors to start your day right.
Afternoon: Carbon Market and Lunch
Explore the bustling Carbon Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts — a perfect place to experience everyday local life. For lunch, indulge in traditional Cebuano dishes at a local eatery within the market area, savoring flavors that have been delighting locals for centuries.
Late Afternoon: Temple of Leah and Taoist Temple
Visit the Temple of Leah, often referred to as Cebu’s Taj Mahal, offering breathtaking views and a story of timeless love. Continue to the Taoist Temple, witnessing an architectural marvel that’s not only a place for worship but also a haven for peace and tranquility.
Evening: Dinner and Cultural Show
Cap off your day with a dinner at Plaza Hamabar, where you can enjoy Cebuano cuisine while being entertained by a cultural show, showcasing traditional dances and music that tell tales of the region’s rich heritage.
No doubt, your third day in Cebu will be jam-packed with must-see attractions. To truly make the most of it, you can use Grab to hop from place to place. Simply book your ride and a verified driver will pick you up precisely where you prefer. Managing your transportation with Grab makes it much more efficient, freeing up time to slow down and really experience each attraction.
Day 4: Discovering Moalboal’s Marine Life
Today, you’ll head to Moalboal, a small town on the southwest coast of Cebu known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Morning: Pescador Island Hopping
Embark on an island-hopping tour to Pescador Island, famous for its rich marine biodiversity. Snorkel or dive to explore the vibrant coral reefs and the famous sardine run, where millions of sardines form mesmerizing schools underwater.
Breakfast can be enjoyed at your hotel or one of the local seaside cafés before your adventure begins.
Afternoon: Panagsama Beach and Sardine Run
Return to Panagsama Beach and continue your underwater exploration with the sardine run, accessible just a few meters from the shoreline. It’s an experience unlike any other, swimming amidst the dense school of sardines that move in perfect harmony.
For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, offering stunning views of the sea and delicious local cuisine.
Late Afternoon: Kawasan Falls
Conclude your day with a visit to the breathtaking Kawasan Falls. Enjoy the scenic trek to the falls or opt for a canyoneering adventure for an additional thrill. The turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls provide a serene atmosphere for relaxation and a refreshing dip.
Evening: Dinner in Moalboal Town
Head back to Moalboal town for dinner. Choose from a variety of dining options that serve both international and local dishes, perfect for unwinding after an action-packed day.
Day 5: North Cebu – Bantayan Island Adventure
Day 5 takes you to the beautiful Bantayan Island, known for its powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s a paradise for beach lovers and a great place to relax and unwind.
Morning: Travel to Bantayan Island
Start your day early by heading to Hagnaya Port, where you’ll catch a ferry to Bantayan Island. Enjoy breakfast at one of the port cafes before boarding. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the sea and is the perfect introduction to the island’s natural beauty.
Afternoon: Beach Hopping and Snorkeling
Once you arrive, settle into your chosen accommodation. Spend your afternoon beach hopping, starting with the famous Paradise Beach. Later, go snorkeling at Ogtong Cave to explore the vibrant underwater life in clear blue waters.
Lunch can be enjoyed at a seaside restaurant, where you can taste fresh seafood while enjoying the ocean view.
Late Afternoon: Kota Beach and Sunset Viewing
Visit Kota Beach in the late afternoon. It’s known for its unique sandbar and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts. Relax on the beach and stay until sunset to witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets on the island.
Evening: Dinner and Island Nightlife
For dinner, head to the vibrant MJ Square, where you’ll find a variety of food options, from local Filipino dishes to international cuisine. After dinner, explore the island’s nightlife, which offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for ending your day.
Day 6: Southern Charms – Dalaguete & Osmeña Peak
Embrace the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Cebu’s southern region with a visit to Dalaguete, known as the “Summer Capital of Cebu,” and the stunning Osmeña Peak.
Morning: Dalaguete’s Historical Sites
Begin your day in Dalaguete, a quaint town filled with historical landmarks. Visit the San Guillermo Church, an 18th-century baroque church that stands as a testament to the town’s rich history. After exploring, enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional Cebuano dishes.
Mid-Morning: Trek to Osmeña Peak
Next, gear up for a trek to Osmeña Peak, Cebu’s highest point. The hike is relatively easy and rewards you with panoramic views of jagged cliff formations, reminiscent of a mini-Chocolate Hills but with a view of the sea. The peak is perfect for photos, so don’t forget your camera!
Late Afternoon: Heritage Tour in Carcar
On your way back, stop by the town of Carcar, known for its heritage houses and delicious snacks. Visit the Carcar City Museum to learn more about the local history and culture. Don’t forget to try Carcar’s famous lechon and chicharon, among the best in Cebu.
Evening: Return to Cebu City
Return to Cebu City for your final night. For dinner, choose one of the city’s top restaurants to reflect on your Cebu adventure over a sumptuous meal. Enjoy the vibrant city life one last time before your departure.
Day 7: Departure Day – Leisure and Reflection
On your final day in Cebu, take the time to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere at a leisurely pace, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve had over the past week.
Morning: Leisurely Breakfast and Souvenir Shopping
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café, relishing the flavors of Cebu one last time. After breakfast, dedicate some time to souvenir shopping at Taboan Public Market, known for its dried fish and local delicacies, or at one of Cebu’s modern malls for a variety of goods, from handicrafts to high-end products.
After shopping at the market, don’t stress about how many shopping bags you have to manage – simply book a GrabCar back to your accommodation. Return safe and sound (and well rested) with Grab’s verified drivers, and use the cashless payment options to ensure a smooth trip.
Afternoon: Final Taste of Cebu
For your last meal in Cebu, choose one of the city’s renowned restaurants or try the local street food for an authentic Cebuano experience. Dishes like puso (hanging rice) and siomai sa Tisa offer a final taste of the island’s rich culinary landscape.
Can’t be bothered to leave your hotel room? Easily fill your tummy with Cebu’s beloved local cuisine using GrabFood. Simply browse the app’s selections to discover available restaurants and order a hearty meal to be delivered directly to your location!
Late Afternoon: Departure Preparations
Arrange for your transfer to Mactan-Cebu International Airport through your accommodation or a reliable service on Agoda.com. Ensure you have all your belongings and souvenirs packed, ready for your journey home.
To ensure comfort and timeliness, book your transportation to the airport with Grab, using their Advanced Airport Booking feature. You’ll find a range of vehicle options, fixed fares, and the reliable service of verified drivers, ensuring a smooth end to your trip.
As you depart Cebu, take with you the memories of its landscapes, the warmth of its people, and a deeper appreciation for its culture. Cebu is not just a destination; it’s an experience that forever holds a place in your heart.
