Beyond its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Cebu City — the Queen City of the South — is also known for its rich and colorful history. But there’s so much more to this bustling city that’s waiting for you to be discovered.
Aside from being known as the home of the Sinulog Festival, Cebu City has a lot of great things to celebrated for. For the culmination of the Car Rental Cebu City travel guide series, we are listing down the must-try activities and must-visit places while you’re in Cebu City.
Photo: Expedia
1. Explore the Historic Fort San Pedro
Travel back in time and learn about Cebu’s rich and colorful history, from Spanish colonization to Japanese occupation, at Fort San Pedro. Wander through its cobblestone paths, marvel at its imposing walls, and delve into the rich history of the country’s colonial past in this 17th-century Spanish fort—also recognized as one of the oldest standing structures in the Philippines.
Photo: Basilica Minore del Santo Niño
2. Discover the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu AKA Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu
Witness the great devotion and unwavering faith of the Cebuano people when you pay a visit to the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu AKA Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu — one of the most important and sacred religious sites for Roman Catholics in the Philippines. This basilica houses the image of Sto. Niño, a child representation of Jesus Christ. It is believed to have been brought to the Philippines by Ferdinand Magellan in the 16th century and gifted to the Cebuano people, aside from the revered Magellan’s Cross. Feel and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere during religious celebrations, such as the Sinulog Festival, at this sacred religious site.
Photo: The Food Dictator
3. Taste the flavors of traditional Cebuano cuisine
Cebu City is a haven for foodies, offering an extensive selection of mouthwatering and palatable to the Filipino palate traditional cuisine. If you’re planning to explore Cebu, don’t miss tasting Cebuano specialties like Cebu lechon, humba, and tuslob buwa. Explore different bustling food markets like Carbon Market and Sugbo Mercado, dine at local restaurants or carinderias or revel in haute cuisines at luxurious fine dining restaurants.
4. Dance the night away in Cebu City’s vibrant nightlife
Aside from its beautiful beaches and grandiose historical buildings, Cebu City is also known for its vibrant nightlife. From fancy pubs to lively clubs, there’s something to suit every taste. Drink a liquor of your choice, dance the night away, bond with friends and your special someone and soak up the lively atmosphere of the city’s entertainment district.
5. Experience Cebu Ocean Park
Witness a breathtaking underwater paradise where a kaleidoscope of different marine creatures of all shapes and sizes glide through the crystal clear waters of Cebu Ocean Park. Satisfy your fascination with the marine biosphere by observing, taking pictures and recording videos of a wide variety of unique marine species in Cebu’s first and only massive oceanarium.
Photo: Pinay Wise
6. Learn the beautiful history of the Temple of Leah
A testament to enduring love and unwavering devotion to a beloved matriarch, the Temple of Leah is an architectural marvel inspired by the Taj Mahal of India. Perched on a mountainous part of the city, this architectural monument offers scenic panoramic views of the entire Cebu City. Here, you’ll be able to wallow in the beauty of this place, allowing you to have innumerable photo opportunities and learn about Leah’s life as a woman, mother and wife.
7. Travel back in time at Yap-San Diego Ancestral House
Showcasing the rich heritage of Chinese-Filipino families in Cebu, the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House features intricate carvings, antique furniture, and traditional Chinese decor, offering a glimpse into the past. Here, you’ll be able to see and experience the life of a rich Chinese-Filipino family during the Spanish colonial period.
8. Take countless pictures at Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site
Step into a vibrant wonderland of flowers, where nature’s colors unfold in an astonishing display. Adorned with colorful blooms, Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site provides an ideal setting for both photography enthusiasts and those seeking tranquil relaxation.
Photo: Expedia
9. Visit the Heritage of Cebu Monument
As one of the highlights of Cebu City, the Heritage of Cebu Monument is a tableau of notable figures and important events that shaped the city’s rich history. This important piece of monument honors and depicts illustrious figures of Cebu, from the gallantry of Lapu-Lapu to the beatification of Pedro Calungsod, the Cebuano martyr. More than just a tableau, this monument is a testament to the Cebuanos’ resilience, grit and bravery that encapsulates the essence of being a Cebuano.
10. Experience Terrazas de Flores Botanical Garden
Convene intricately with nature in an oasis of vibrant flowers and lush greenery at Terrazas de Flores Botanical Garden, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city proper. This garden houses a wide variety of plants, ranging from orchids, lilies and other exotic and native species. Aside from indulging in the place’s serenity, you’ll be able to take pictures as many as you want here.
11. Visit Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral is not just a place of faith, dedicated to devotees and believers of Roman Catholicism, but also an architectural grandeur. Apart from that, this cathedral also witnessed the rise and fall of the Spanish colonial regime, the struggles and triumphs of the Cebuano people, and the unwavering faith and devotion of the Cebuanos. If you are a religious devotee or just wanna learn the history of Cebu, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral is a must-visit.
Photo: Expedia
12. Visit the Cebu Taoist Temple
Decorated with intricate Chinese architectural elements, such as but not limited to red lanterns and majestic dragon carvings, the Cebu Taoist Temple is a place to learn the principles of Taoism, the beauty of Chinese culture and the ways to fully commune with nature.
13. Explore the Mactan Island Marine Sanctuary
Cebu City is the perfect gateway for those looking to explore the Mactan Island Marine Sanctuary. Discover the rich underwater ecosystem teeming with kaleidoscopic corals, tropical fish and unique, fascinating marine life. Whether you’re eager to go snorkeling or diving to witness the breathtaking reefs or simply yearn to sit back and unwind on the pristine beaches, this marine sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience for all.
14. Visit and explore nearby tourist destinations
Aside from Cebu City, Cebu Province boasts a wide range of off-beat travel destinations and must-visit attractions, as well as historically and culturally significant architectures and religiously important sites. Some of these are the Kawasan Falls, Bantayan Island, Oslob, Moalboal and Simala Church to name a few. This province is a perfect harmony of history, culture and nature. To learn more about these tourist destinations, follow our Travel Guide Series here in Car Rental Cebu City.
Photo: SilverKris
How to get around Cebu City
Commuting via public transportation in the bustling Cebu metropolis can be quite challenging, especially during rush hours. If you want to skip the hassle and inconvenience of transferring from one mode of transportation to another, consider renting a car from us!
Not just that, you’ll also have the freedom to tour the city on your own terms and save a significant amount of money and time spent on public transportation.
Car Rental Cebu City has all the premium and affordable rental cars. Ranging from sedans, SUVs and vans, we have the vehicle that suits your travel needs. What’s more, renting a car from us also guarantees you get 24/7 roadside assistance.
Ready to explore Cebu City? Call us at 0939-972-9846 or email sales@carrentalcebucity.com.