INTRODUCTION TO CEBU
Cebu was the first place in the Philippines, where the Spanish settled so it has a lot of Spanish influence and heritage spots. The first known conflicts against foreigners took place on Mactan Island almost 500 years ago. Lapu-Lapu who is regarded as one of the first Filipino heroes fought with his men against the Spaniards and killed the famous Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan. And Magellan’s cross, which he ordered to be planted in Cebu on his arrival, is a popular tourist attraction.
Cebu is also famous for the Sinulog Festival, which celebrates the child Jesus, and occurs every year during third Sunday of January. The is an array of colorful street parties which attracts vistors from all over the Philippines and from around the world.
Although Lechon (roast pig) can be found in all parts of the Philippines, it is reported that the best can be found in Cebu. Even Anthony Bourdain the celebrity chef and author referred to Cebu lechon as “the best pig ever” on his television show ‘No Reservations’.
WHERE IS CEBU
Cebu is located to the east of Negros, to the west of Leyte and Bohol islands. The province consists of Cebu Island, as well as 167 smaller islands, which include Mactan, Bantayan, Malapascua, Olango and the Camotes Islands.
HOW TO GET TO CEBU BY AIR
Cebu Airport is the second busiest airport in the Philippines, after Manila and accepts international flights from 30+ international destinations and also flies to all the main domestic airports in the country
It is located in Lapu-Lapu City on Mactan Island and was originally a US Airforce airport and was called Mactan Air Base. It was used in the Vietnam conflict as a base for their aircraft, but was then transitioned into a passenger terminal to replace the original Cebu airport called Lahug Airport, which was unable to expand to cope with the rising number of visitors flying into the region.
Over the past few years there has been calls for a second runway to be built, although currently it would involved the displacement of a number of businesses that been a stumbling block so far.
SEARCH CEBU FLIGHTS
You can search for and book the cheapest flights to Cebu or any other destination you wish by using the search forms below. It’s searches hundreds of airlines to get you the best deal.
HOW TO GET TO CEBU BY FERRY
With a travel time of almost 22 hours, the ferry from Manila to Cebu is not one of the most popular routes in the Philippines, especially with the budget airlines offering affordable prices directly into Cebu.
Other ferries are available that connect Cebu with Bohol, Cagayan, Surigao and details of all these and other travel options can be found using the search form below
WHERE TO STAY IN MACTAN - CEBU
As Cebu has the second biggest transport hub in the Philippines and is also the largest business district outside of Manila, it has attracted a lot of the international hotel chains and 5 star boutique hotels and resorts as well as great value accommodation to cater for all budgets.
Cebu is a large island and has a number areas to stay, which include Mactan, Maolboal, Oslob, Malapascua. On this page we will concentrate on the the Mactan Island area as that is the most commercial tourist destination in Cebu, but we will also have other pages which highlight the other places mentioned.
Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort
Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort
Crimson Resort and Spa
Pacific Cebu Resort
Eloisa Royal Suites
Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel
CEBU - MACTAN HOTEL SEARCH
If the above choices don’t meet your needs then please use the search box below to take you directly to Agoda’s site. We have been using Agoda for a number of years, and they always provide a quality service at guaranteed lowest prices, in addition to AgodaCash where you can earn cash on every booking to spend on future trips.
WHERE TO EAT IN MACTAN - CEBU
As we have mentioned already, Cebu is famous for its Lechon and should not be missed when you visit, unless you are a vegetarian of course. But there are a number of other delightful dishes to be found and a large selection of top class restaurants that I am sure you will enjoy.
House of Lechon
Ibiza Beach Club
Lantaw Native Restaurant
CEBU DAY TRIPS
This is a selection of excursions available in Cebu that you won’t want to miss. You can also see further trips in our Tours and Day Trips section