Cebu

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Overview

Cebu is the hub around which the Visayas revolve. It is the most densely populated island in the Philippines and is second only to Luzon in its strategic and economic importance to the country. This is one of the most prosperous regions in the country – the 2016 growth rate was 8.8%, considerably higher than the national average. Tourism numbers are booming, Cebu draws almost two million foreign travellers a year. The island's prime attractions are its white-sand beaches and spectacular diving, chiefly off the northern tip of Cebu at Malapascua and down on the southwest coast at Moalboal. And don't ignore much-maligned Cebu City, which has lively bars, emerging eateries and burgeoning retail appeal.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

People praying at the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino in Cebu, Philippines.

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

Cebu City

Cebu's holiest church houses a revered Flemish statuette of the Christ child (Santo Niño) that dates to Magellan's time. The church is no stranger to…

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Cebu

Just 20 minutes from Mactan by public bangka, Olango Island is home to this important wildlife reserve. Taking in 1030 hectares of sand flats and…

Museo Sugbo

Cebu City

This excellent museum comprises several galleries in a sturdy old coral-stone building that was Cebu's provincial jail from 1870 to 2004. Rooms are…

Bounty Beach

Malapascua Island

This glorious stretch of pale sand occupies almost the entire southern part of the island. It's lined with hotels, restaurants, dive shops and massage…

Casa Gorordo Museum

Cebu City

Downtown, in a quiet residential area, this museum was originally a private home (built in the 1850s). Later it was purchased by the Gorordos, one of Cebu…

Fort San Pedro

Cebu City

Established in 1565 under the command of Miguel López de Legazpi, conqueror of the Philippines, Fort San Pedro has served as an army garrison, a rebel…

Magellan's Cross

Cebu City

Ferdinand's Catholic legacy, a large wooden cross, is housed in a stone rotunda (built in 1841). The crucifix on show is said to contain remnants from a…