7 Days in Cebu Trip: Budgets, Hotels, Food & Attractions

Day 1 | Morning

Kalanggaman Island

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: 500 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-3 Hours

Location: Kalanggaman Island

Karagangman Island is an island with very good water quality in Cebu. It is a popular tourist resort in Cebu. It has a long trailing beach, crystal blue water, and there are many places around for snorkeling. Here Can also camp and enjoy the sunset, very beautiful. Although the island is not large in size, the waters around it are crystal clear and the sun shines on it, like a piece of jelly gently supporting itself. The trees and shadows on the white sandy beach are mixed with various colors, which is like a medieval oil painting by Yumei.

Reviews from Real Guests:

MGBagood: This is the best island in the Visayas Region of the Philippines. A Virgin Island with Crystal clear water ideal for all day swimming and snorkeling. We went there on a beautiful day of February where no rain nor wind can intervene your escape. It is supposed to be the place where me and my husband will renew our vows but his time won’t permit. But I did enjoy the bonding with my family and friends. Have fun in Kalanggaman Island and ease your stress and worries away!

AADragons Travel and Tours: Kalanggaman Island is 30 to 40 mins boat ride from Eco tourism Palompon Leyte. This island is very inviting for its crystal clear water. Went there Dec 2016, that time there was no electricity so head home around 6pm. One word to describe this island. AMAZING!

Day 1 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Kalanggaman Island, Fort San Pedro next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Fort San Pedro

Opening Hours: Open from 8:00am-8:00pm

Ticket Price: 30 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City, Central Visayas

San Petro Fort is located next to the port. It is also known as the ancient castle of the Philippines with the Santiago Castle in Manila. It was built by the Spanish invaders when they arrived in the Philippines to defend against the attacks of the southern Philippines. During the Second World War, the castle was used to defend against the Japanese army, and the Latin American troops were stationed here as a camp. Many famous officers were stationed here. There are many traces of war here, which can be said to have been deeply imprinted by the war. Now it is a school classroom. There is a museum in Fort San Petro, which displays some of the art treasures salvaged from the old Spanish sailing ship and the sunken "Santiago".

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: There are not many attractions in Cebu, but you must not miss it in San Pedro. If you have time, you can ask them to do free tour and will explain to you the history of Cebu. The castle is actually not big, about 10 minutes walk from the Magellan Cross, tickets 20 pesos, but after the visit will absorb some historical traces.

Trip.com User: You'll feel transported to that certain era of Philippine History when you visit the place. I should have worn a "baro't saya" to complete the get up and scenery. Its nicely maintained and restored, it was landscape beautifully too..So if you wanted to see and feel the good old days..this is a good place to start with

Day 1 | Evening

If you want to explore other popular attractions later, Radisson Blu Cebu is a suitable place for you to stay and refresh.

Radisson Blu Cebu

The Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu is situated at the intersection of Serging Osmena Boulevard and Juan Luna Avenue, permitting easy access to Mactan Cebu International Airport, the Cebu Port Authority and shopping centers such as SM City Cebu Mall and Borrowmeo Arcade.
With proximity to cultural attractions, shops, diving sites, white sandy beaches and the Cebu International Convention Center, this five-star Cebu hotel guarantees a convenient stay for both business and leisure travelers.
The on-site restaurant serves a selection of Asian, Japanese, seafood, Mediterranean and international delicacies. The lobby bar offers an array of cocktails and malts along with light snacks. The poolside bar serves signature drinks and international dishes.
Business travelers can make use of the hotel's state-of-the-art function rooms, event plaza and fully equipped meeting plaza. Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property.
In their leisure time, guests can cool off in the outdoor pool, relax and indulge in a pampering treatment at the spa.

Day 2 | Morning

Tops Lookout

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: 100 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Cebu Transcentral Hwy, Cebu City, Cebu

Situated on the cold MtBusay, this lookout is a great lookout with breathtaking views of Cebu City, MactanIsland and OlangoIsland. The observatory on the top of the mountain is equipped with a snack kiosk, and many locals bring their own conveniences to enjoy the weekend in the huts of the observatory. In addition, the day and night views from the top of the mountain bring different surprises to tourists. When you go up the mountain in broad daylight, you can see the oily Cebu City, and if you are lucky, you will see a rainbow. If you go up the mountain in the evening, you can watch the lights of thousands of houses in the city, and the atmosphere is first-class.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Honeylet AR: This has been one of the beautiful spots I have been to in Cebu City Tour. The place is very serene. You could also see the aerial view of Cebu on top. Beside Tops Lookout is La Vie in the Sky where you can have a taste of French delicacies.

Ibyangsterific: very relaxing place. i syrely would recommend for chill moments or soul searching, bi dung with friends and family.

Day 2 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Tops Lookout, Kawasan Falls next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Kawasan Falls

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: 45 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Days

Location: R92F+WMR, Badian, 6031 Cebu, Philippines

Jiahuashan Waterfall is located at the southwest end of Cebu. Since few tourists come here, it can maintain its natural and primitive appearance. Tourists can enjoy the tranquility of being away from the hustle and bustle and washing their minds. For the adventurous, take a bamboo raft to swim the river or dive into the cool waters.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Beachbabe: Tumalog falls on Cebu Island is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines. The turquoise waters of the falls aren’t quite as vibrant as at Kawasan falls, but the sheer size of the waterfall makes it an incredible place to visit. Due to the somewhat remote location of Tumalog falls in South Cebu it was only discovered in 2012, but thankfully the waterfall is now easily accessible by road. It’s a great place to adventure to as part of a day trip discovering the amazing waterfalls of South Cebu. Two of the other waterfalls worth visiting on the island are Aguinid falls and Kawasan falls. Find out everything you need to know about visiting Tumalog falls with this guide!

Benj : dubbed as the “ gatorade waterfalls” be amazed of how blue the water in this falls like no other on the planet. for the adventurer, you can have the canyoneering but for those who think they dont have the stamina for it, they offer tours directly to the falls. this one shouldn’t be missed while visiting Cebu, the 5 hour bus ride from the city center will be much worth it

Day 2 | Evening

If you want to explore other popular attractions later, Matutinao Beach is a suitable place for you to stay and refresh.

Matutinao Beach

Matutinao Beach offers accommodation in Badian. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. It is 3.3 km to St. Joseph Parish Church. The nearest airport is Dumaguete Airport, 53 km from the property. A terrace or balcony are featured in certain rooms. A TV is available. You will find a 24-hour front desk at the property. Car hire is available at this hotel and the area is popular for snorkelling.

Day 3 | Morning

Casa Gorordo Museum

Opening Hours: Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 80 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: 35 Lopez Jaena Street, Cebu City 6004, Philippines

The Gorodo Museum is a residential house built in the 1850s and later bought by the Gorodo family in a quiet residential area of Cebu. The coral stone on the lower part of the house will shine in the sun, and the upper part is made of pure Philippine hardwood, which is not connected with nails, but with wooden dowels. The first floor of the museum was once used as a storage room, and is now the museum's office and art exhibition area; the second floor displays furniture, kitchenware, clothing, books, paintings and other items. Visitors can visit the bedroom, kitchen, dining room, etc., to learn about 1860-1920 The life scene of the rich and powerful. There is also an elegant small courtyard in the museum, where local plants are planted. You can take a walk in the garden and listen to the chirping of birds, which will make you feel comfortable.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Dana: Casa Gorordo was the 3rd Museum I've been to in Cebu City. I loved my visit to Casa Gorordo because it is such a well-preserved place. The furnitures were still in good quality and pretty, the beds and the clothings featured inside the house were still neat and clean. It really shows the actual life during the 1800s. If one wants to time travel back to the Spanish Colonization era of the Philippines, visiting places like Casa Gorordo is a great way to go. Casa Gorordo is located in Parian, Downtown Cebu, opens daily, and I think they have an entrance fee. I am not quite sure because I went there for free c/o my Young Minds Academy program.

ELONA NOVA CLAVANO: I went to this place 5 times and i really like it.

Day 3 | Afternoon

Now we come to another great highlight in the city: Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary.

Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary

Opening Hours: Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 20 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: JN Jumalon St. ， Basak Pardo 6000 Cebu City

The Butterfly Sanctuary is located west of downtown Cebu and is one of the first attractions Cebu residents recommend to tourists. You can hardly imagine what a wonderful world of butterflies dancing in the sky. In Jumalon's garden, butterflies are everywhere on the branches and leaves. There will also be people here who will explain the life cycle of butterflies in real life, as well as butterfly specimens and crafts made from broken butterfly wings. If you go to the butterfly garden, it is recommended to wear bright-colored clothes, which will be easier to attract butterflies.

Reviews from Real Guests:

KGra: 🦋

Day 3 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary? The Partridge Guest House is one of your top choices.

The Partridge Guest House

Property Location With a stay at The Partridge Guest House in Cebu, you'll be minutes from Ayala Center and close to Magellan's Cross. This guesthouse is within close proximity of Cebu Business Park and Cebu International Convention Center. Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 7 air-conditioned guestrooms. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms feature showers, complimentary toiletries, and slippers. Housekeeping is provided on request, and rollaway/extra beds (surcharge) can be requested. Amenities Make use of convenient amenities, which include complimentary wireless Internet access and barbecue grills. Dining Grab a bite from the snack bar/deli serving guests of The Partridge Guest House. Mingle with other guests at the complimentary reception, held daily. Cooked-to-order breakfasts are available daily from 6 AM to 10 AM for a fee. Business, Other Amenities Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, coffee/tea in a common area, and microwave in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.

Day 4 | Morning

Museo Sugbo

Opening Hours: Open on Tue-Sat,9:00am-5:30pm;Closed on Mon,Sun

Ticket Price: 75 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: 35 Eduardo Aboitiz St, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines

Museo Sugbo is the Cebu Provincial Museum situated in the previous Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center, four blocks away from Plaza Independencia. This venue is currently permanently closed.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Dana: Museo Sugbo is the 2nd museum I've been to in Cebu City. Officially a stopover in my Cebu City Museum tour itinerary, I went there with my boyfriend. This museum is by far the best museum I've been to, with 16 galleries available for viewing. They have artifacts predating to the pre-colonial Philippines, to the Spanish colonization era, next to the Japanese colonization era, to the American colonization era. I was amazed at how huge their collection is. They even have some original letters of the late Leon Kilat, a hero of Cebu during the Philippine revolution. This place is such a great place to learn the Filipino history.

DeeHyun: Worth a visit! This place helped me pass my LET. It’s informative and you get to feel how it was during the time of our ancestors in Cebu. This was the beginning of my addiction to museums. 😊✌️

Day 4 | Afternoon

When time permits after visiting Museo Sugbo, don’t forget pay a visit to Sirao Garden.

Sirao Garden

Opening Hours: Open from 6:00am-6:00pm

Ticket Price: 60 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-3 Hours

Location: Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines

Sirao Garden is one of Cebu's eye-catching attractions, the garden known as "Little Amsterdam". The variety of flowers here is intoxicating and attracts many tourists to come to admire and take pictures.

Reviews from Real Guests:

raskolnikov: Sirao Garden in Cebu is one of newest attractions in the Queen City of the South. Dubbed as Little Amsterdam, Sirao Garden showcases flowers of different colors and varieties, all in full bloom and you can witness it all for a very affordable 50PHP entrance fee. Kids below 4 feet can also get in for free. A small drawback though-- the Garden is not very accessible via public transport. We had to rent a van and take a 30-45 minute drive from the city, tackling the narrow and winding road going to the place. It is all worth the trip though, as you will be greeted by a cold breeze and a good view of the entire city and the ocean as you ascend to the mountain on the way up. There are also food stalls that offer various snacks in case you feel hungry on the way and needed to recharge before you tackle the terraces formed Garden.

Dana: Sirao Garden is a great place to relax and unwind. I am happy to have met this beauty at last. I lived in Ceu City for 8 years and it was not until last year that I was able to visit Sirao Garden. What I love most about this garden is that, it is well-developed. Ever since it became famous, they started putting up some attractions inside the garden to enhance its beauty. Unfortunately, it was May when I went there, so there wasn't much flowers in bloom. It is said that the best month to visit Sirao is on September. They say flowers are in full bloom that time.

Day 4 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Sirao Garden? t27th Flr Condo1 @ IT Park Avida Riala 50MPBS WIFI is one of your top choices.

t27th Flr Condo1 @ IT Park Avida Riala 50MPBS WIFI

The t27th Flr Condo1 @ IT Park Avida Riala 50MPBS WIFI is an ideal spot for travelers wanting to discover the city. The t27th Flr Condo1 @ IT Park Avida Riala 50MPBS WIFI is an ideal choice for travelers who want to take in the sights and sounds of Cebu.

When guests have some time on their hands they can make use of the onsite facilities.

Day 5 | Morning

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

Ticket Price: 800 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 2.0-3.0 Hours

Location: Barangay Corte, Toril, Carmen, 6005 Cebu, Philippines

Cebu Safari Park is a well-known wildlife park in the Philippines and a new attraction in Cebu, designed to provide guests with a play experience that combines entertainment and learning. Here, you can spot a variety of birds such as scarlet ibises, red and blue parrots, Victorian crested doves, and more! There are also intimidating Bengal tigers, cheetahs, and the graceful Celebes crested macaque. Mongooses are relatively difficult to see in open habitats, and they usually prefer to roam in parks. Many giraffes, Philippine deer and camels also live in harmony in the area.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Genevie Graham: Complete your family weekend getaway with a trip to Cebu Safari and Adventure Park. The bird show was superb. The African Savannah experience was truly unforgettable.

Genevie Graham: Rate is reasonable, the staff are friendly. You need to be early to get to the shows and note that your tickets doesn’t include the ATV adventure.

Day 5 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Cebu Safari and Adventure Park, Tumalog Falls next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Tumalog Falls

Ticket Price: 20 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1.0-3.0 Hours

Location: Brgy Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Oslob, Cebu, Philippines

Tumalog Waterfall is located in Oslob, Philippines, and it takes about 3-4 hours to get there by car from the city. The waterfall has a fascinating shape, tumbling down from different rock formations, and the mist is filled with water, which is breathtaking.

Reviews from Real Guests:

danaehatzi: Sunrise was a magical time to be there it looked like an enchanted waterfall with birds flying over the water. For me, more impressive than Kawasan and less crowded. Beautiful place!

DjiAir2s Korea: unang falls na napuntahan ko. ang ganda ng kulay ng tubig

Day 5 | Evening

Don’t forget to book Island Front / Bangcogon Resort and Restaurant in advance, because all the tourists head to Tumalog Falls love staying at it.

Island Front / Bangcogon Resort and Restaurant

Island Front / Bangcogon Resort and Restaurant is a 3-star property situated in Oslob, facing the beach. With a terrace, the 3-star guest house has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy sea views. At the guest house, the rooms include a seating area. Guests at Island Front / Bangcogon can enjoy a à la carte breakfast. At the accommodation you will find a restaurant serving Grill Bbq, Asian and local cuisine. Dumaguete is 24 km from Island Front / Bangcogon Resort and Restaurant, while Alcoy is 35 km from the property. The nearest airport is Dumaguete Airport, 21 km from the guest house.

Day 6 | Morning

Oslob Whale Shark Watching

Opening Hours: Open from 6:00am-12:30am

Recommended Length of Stay: 3-4 Hours

Location: Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Oslob, 6023 Cebu, Philippines

Oslob Whale Shark Watching point is located in the southern part of the province of Cebu. It was originally a small fishing village. Later, when whale sharks were found, the villagers fed whale sharks and gradually developed a "free-range" whale shark watching point. You can go whale shark watching on a boat, or you snorkel or dive and swim with whale sharks. You have to set out early in the morning to see the whale sharks as that's when they can be observed.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: The sea's were rough the first day of our trip to Cebu and it was touch and go to even get the ticket. Somehow because of somebody backing out we had first dibs on their boat so of course I jumped at the chance to snorkel with these animals for an extra 500 peso only. The cost is 500 peso just to watch with an extra 500 to snorkel or if you want to dive with certification it would be a total of 1500. This is all subject to change depending on the trip agency you book with if your not willing to wait in line at 4:30am So... the whale sharks... WOW! These are some creatures! It seemingly dwarves the Great White in comparison which would be second in line for biggest shark. The patterns on each shark are unique and you are encouraged to share a photo of the left side of any whale shark you encouter to help scientists and biologists to identify them individually. At one point we were surrounded by four enormous but gentle giants and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Ill be back again for sure!

Trip.com User: Swimming with the whale sharks in Oslob is an absolutly once in a lifetime experience. If there is only one thing you do while in the Phillipines - let it be this. For the people completely new to this, whale sharks, while still considered sharks, are filter feeders (feed on tiny shrimp) and barely have teeth and pose no threat to people. They are beautiful, gentle giants. While you have to wake up a little early to do this from Cebu City, most tour guides have someone wait in line the night before to get an early slot so go. you get on a boat (or can dive if you’re certified - extra 2,000PHP :) or pay a little extra for a designated divemaster if you are not certified) Local fishermen will feed the whale sharks so there is usually no risk that you won’t see them.

Day 6 | Afternoon

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary nearby is the top choice before you leave Oslob Whale Shark Watching and hit the road.

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Ticket Price: 100 PHP

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: San Vicente, Olango, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu

Located on the southern coast of Olango Island, this reserve is a resting place for more than 40 species and more than 50,000 migratory birds flying from East Asia to Australia. Birds usually stay here from September to March, but the best birding season is from November to February.

Day 6 | Evening

Don’t forget to book Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu in advance, because all the tourists head to Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary love staying at it.

Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu

The Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu Cebu, Philippines pa is located on Punta Engano Beach on Mactan Island, among a wide area of lush tropical forest. It's just a 15-minute drive from the international airport and 20 minutes from Cebu's CBD area.
The resort's 530 guestrooms and suites are all tastefully furnished with colorful tropical decor and feature private balconies with panoramic views of the Visayan Sea and outlying islands.
Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu offers several dining options: Tides is an all-day dining restaurant featuring a buffet of international dishes. Acqua serves modern authentic Italian cuisine with a panoramic view of the ocean. Tea of Spring offers a selection of traditional, contemporary, herbal, vegetarian, and fragrant Chinese cuisine. The Buko Bar is situated at the main wing pool for guests to take light refreshments between swimming, while Scoops serves delectable ice cream treats. Breeze, located by the beach, serves light snacks and coolers to keep you refreshed and energized. At Cowrie Cove, guests can savor fresh seafood under a canopy of stars and with the sound of ocean waves directly below the alfresco deck.
A wide range of recreational facilities and activities are also available: a swimming pool (complete with waterfall and slide), tennis courts, pitch-and-putt golf, deep-sea fishing, jet skiing, windsurfing, banana-boat rides, parasailing, scuba diving and snorkeling. Guests also have access to a fitness center, jogging path, massage therapy, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and Shangri-La's special spa.
To help our guests enjoy a more stress free stay with us, participating hotels at Shangri-La group are making available emergency medical insurance to eligible international guests, at no additional charge, should the guest be diagnosed with COVID-19 during their trip. For more information please contact the hotel.

Day 7 | Morning

Amazing Show

Ticket Price: 50 USD

Recommended Length of Stay: 1.0-2.0 Hours

Location: 2 Bagumbayan, Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu, Philippines

Amazing Show in the Philippines presents a unique ladyboy show with a novel music program. The gorgeous costumes and gorgeous dances will open your eyes, and the dynamic performance of High will bring you an unforgettable night.

Day 7 | Afternoon

Now we come to another great highlight in the city: Malapascua Exotic Diving Center.

Malapascua Exotic Diving Center

Opening Hours: Open from 4:00am-11:00pm

Ticket Price: 0 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 2.0-3.0 Hours

Location: Malapascua Island, 6013, Philippines

For those who love beaches and diving, Malapascua has all the dive spots, with hammerhead sharks seen from March to May. The resort is clean and tidy, the diving instructor is professional, very good at controlling buoyancy and balance. Abundant marine life, blue-ringed octopus, hammerhead sharks, whitetips, seahorses, mandarin fish, manta rays and thresher sharks...Rest on the beach in front of the resort or swim in the crystal clear sea.

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.