Cebu City guide for first-time visitors, digital nomads, and even curious locals — this starter list shares 10 must-know essentials to help you explore, stay connected, and enjoy your time in the city.
⚠️ Note: This Cebu City guide uses referral links at no extra cost to you. It’s a helpful starting point, but info may change. We’re not connected to the providers — please contact them directly for bookings or questions.
Table of Contents
🗾️ Cebu City Guide: 10 Essentials to Know Before You Explore
1. ⭐ Top Attractions in Cebu City
Within Cebu City:
- TOPS Cebu – Observation spot with dining and sweeping city views
- Temple of Leah – Roman-style temple built as a shrine of love
- Sirao Garden – Insta-famous for colorful blooms and mountain views
- 🌼 Best viewed March to May, though still vibrant from November to February
- Cebu IT Park – Cafés, co-working, dining, shopping, and nightlife
- Ayala Center Cebu – Upscale mall with global brands, cinema, and family-friendly spaces
- Cebu Heritage Tour (downtown) – A short ride from the city center brings you to historical sites like Magellan’s Cross, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, and more
2. 🏖️ Day Trips & Nearby Escapes
- Mactan Island Beaches – Resorts like Dusit Thani, Jpark Island Resort, or Plantation Bay Resort Lagoon are open for day use.
- Island Hopping – Visit Nalusuan, Hilutugan, and Caohagan Islands via Klook’s Island Hopping Tour 🌊
- Moalboal (3-4 hrs away) – Sardine run + snorkeling. Possible with early departure.
3. 🚗 Bookable Tours, Activities & Transport
Easy Tours via Klook:
- 📍 Private Cebu & Mactan Twin City Tour
- 🏝️ Day Tour to Bohol (Chocolate Hills + Tarsiers)
- 🚗 Private Car Charter (Customize Your Own Itinerary)
💡 Tip: Book a few days in advance.
Planning to book Cebu tours, eSIMs, airport transfers or travel insurance? Get a ₱250 discount on Klook after you sign up!
4. 📱 Local Wi-Fi and Internet
eSIMs are your best bet:
- 📶 5G Philippines Unlimited Data eSIM | Globe — Globe often works better in Cebu City
❌ Avoid SIMs from random stalls to prevent activation issues
5. 🛡️ Stay Safe Online with a VPN
Public Wi-Fi isn’t always secure. A VPN helps:
- Avoid geo-blocks and restrictions
- Encrypt your data
Protect your data on public Wi-Fi networks while on the go with ExpressVPN
6. 💳 International Payment Tips
Avoid ATM fees and poor rates. Consider using Wise:
- Multi-currency accounts
- Send PHP to local banks
- Optional ATM card (request 2–3 weeks ahead)
Save money on your first transfer to the Philippines with Wise (secure, fast, and low fees)
7. 🍽️ Food & Delivery Apps
Apps to download:
🍲 Picks around Central Cebu City:
- AA BBQ – Local grilled meats & seafood
- Vegan Cebu City – Plant-based meals, snacks, & desserts
- Sugbo Mercado (Cebu IT Park) – Open-air food market (evenings)
- House of Lechon – For Cebu’s famous roasted pig
- La Parisienne – Wine, charcuterie, & more
💡 Tip: Drivers deliver to most condos. Use map pins + message them if needed.
8. 🛍️ What to Pack or Buy Before You Arrive
Suggested must-haves:
🛒 Shopping these essentials online? Have your orders delivered to your home a few weeks before your trip.
📦 While some hotels accept deliveries, most Airbnbs do not allow mail or packages.
9. 🚖 Getting Around Cebu
| Transport | Notes |
|---|---|
| Grab (download) | Best for airport and city |
| Angkas (download) | Motorcycle taxi for solo riders |
| Car Rental | Available on Klook |
| Taxi | Metered, ask for change |
| Bus / Jeepney / Motorcycle (habal-habal) | Cheap but cash only |
🚗 Renting a car? Double-check parking with your host or hotel first — it’s not always offered.
🗾️ Must-download: Google Maps to check routes and nearby spots.
10. ✈️ Travel Insurance (Optional but Worth Considering)
Whether you’re visiting from abroad or traveling locally, travel insurance can help in case of:
- Trip cancellations or delays
- Lost luggage or belongings
- Medical needs while away from home
🌍 Options available from providers like Klook, SafetyWing, and World Nomads.
Sign up for SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance Essential and get $20 credit toward your first policy!
📌 Final Notes
✨ This Cebu City guide is here to help you plan, explore, and enjoy Cebu — but it’s not a concierge service. We’re not affiliated with the businesses listed, and we won’t be able to answer questions beyond what’s already here.
We recommend you:
- Explore what feels right for you
- Contact providers directly for bookings or clarifications
Safe travels and enjoy Cebu! 🏝️