Visit Cebu, Philippines

Cebu is where the Spanish first landed in the Philippines in 1521, and today it’s the busy hub of the central islands. Cebu City has the country’s oldest Spanish-era landmarks, while the long island around it has waterfalls, reefs and some of the best diving in the Philippines. With a big international airport, it’s also the easiest starting point for Bohol and the Visayas.

What to see

Cebu City. Magellan’s Cross, which marks the cross planted by Magellan’s expedition in 1521, stands in a small chapel beside the Basilica del Santo Niño, home of the country’s most venerated religious image. Nearby are Fort San Pedro and the old streets of the colonial center.

Moalboal. On the south-west coast, a small resort town known for the sardine run, a huge shoal of fish just off the shore that you can snorkel over, and sea turtles on the reef.

Kawasan Falls. Turquoise pools in the forest near Badian, often combined with canyoneering trips down the river.

The islands. Malapascua in the north is known for diving with thresher sharks; Bantayan has long white beaches. Bohol, with its Chocolate Hills and tarsiers, is a fast ferry ride away. See Bohol and Panglao.

You’ll also see whale shark trips at Oslob advertised widely. The sharks there are fed to keep them close to shore, which researchers have criticized for changing their behavior. Many responsible operators leave it out.

How long to stay

Three or four nights covers Cebu City, Moalboal and Kawasan. Add Bohol or Malapascua for a week. Mactan-Cebu International Airport, on Mactan island next to the city, has domestic and international flights.

Planning it with My Way Travel

We plan private island-hopping trips in the Philippines, with flights, ferries, transfers and named hotels in one itinerary. Have a look at our Philippines tours, the best time to visit the Philippines, or tell us your dates.

Sources: Philippine heritage and tourism information on Cebu City landmarks; marine research on whale shark provisioning at Oslob. Last checked October 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cebu worth visiting?

Yes, for its history, diving and easy connections to Bohol and other islands.

How many days do you need in Cebu?

Three or four nights for the city, Moalboal and Kawasan Falls; a week to add Bohol or Malapascua.

Is swimming with whale sharks in Oslob ethical?

It’s controversial, because the sharks are fed to keep them near shore. Many responsible operators avoid it.

Photo: DisRaptor18, Wikimedia Commons, CC0.