Tourist Destinations in Cebu City

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country in the Western Pacific with over 7,000 islands. This country can provide you with a variety of tourist attractions as well as cultural experiences. Cebu, also known as “The Queen City of the South,” is located in the country’s Central Visayas region, surrounded by more than 150 islands and islets.

Cebu is famous for its best lechon. According to Anthony Bourdain (the world’s most famous celebrity chef), Cebu’s lechon is “the best pig ever.”

Cebu has a lot to offer in terms of food, architecture, people, and nature. It is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines. I compiled a list of some of the city’s tourist attractions. This one focuses on the historical context and stories of these locations.

Tourist destinations in Cebu City

1. Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu –
   Built in the 1500s and rebuilt in the 1700s, this Catholic church is famous for its statue of Jesus as a child, also known as Santo Niño de Cebu. Every third Sunday of January, we celebrate Sinulog Festival in his honor. If you are staying in the downtown area, you can take a jeepney or a taxi cab.
   
   

2. Magellan’s Cross – it is a Christian cross planted by Portuguese and Spanish explorers on Ferdinand Magellan’s orders upon his arrival in Cebu, Philippines. It is only a short walk from the Basilica Minore del Santo Nio de Cebu.

3. Fort San Pedro – it is a military defense structure in Cebu that was constructed by the Spanish under the command of Miguel López de Legazpi. It is situated in Plaza Indepencia, in the city’s pier area. The Basilica Minore del Santo Nio de Cebu is only a 3-minute walk away. 

3. Cebu Taoist Temple – this temple is located in Beverly Hills Subdivision, which is built by Cebu’s substantial Chinese community in 1972. No Entrance Fee. They also offer free hot tea!

4. Tops – Popular spot for people who wants to see the city view. Best to go there before the sunset! It is an open area with food stalls and drinks.

5. Sirao Garden – Also Known as “Little Amsterdam” is popular for its colorful flowers in a mountainous area.

6. Buwakan ni Alejandra – A gorgeous flower garden. You can find a variety of colorful and picturesque flowers. The view is extraordinary.

Photo Credit: https://osmiva.com/road-trip-balamban-cebu/ 

7. Temple of Leah – it is a Roman inspired temple, A work of art dedicated to Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. A symbol of man’s eternal love to his wife.

7. Museo Sugbo – it is housed in what was once known as Carcel de Cebu, Cebu’s provincial jail. The museum is divided into rooms that depict different eras of Cebu’s history. There are also artifacts and weapons used by Cebuanos in the past. There is much more to see here, and there are gift shops where you can buy souvenirs. 

8. Colon Street – A historical street in downtown Cebu City. It is the oldest road in the Philippines. This place is the center for commercial activities in the City. A lot of commercial establishments are built in this area along with universities, department stores and it is often busy here during peak hours since Jeepneys, taxis and other public transporation move in and out of the street.

There are a lot more places that Cebu can offer. These are just a few of them. I am lucky enough that I get to see these places and learn about their history growing up.

As a local, it’s nice to know how these places interests other people. Come visit Cebu, you will definitely enjoy your trip!