Top 10 Popular Attractions in Cebu City (2025)
Cebu City is a thriving economic center, a top travel destination, and a gateway to world-class experiences. Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks, breathtaking natural scenery, or vibrant city life, Cebu offers a diverse range of attractions to explore.
Here are the top 10 must-visit spots in Cebu, along with the best times to experience them. Start planning your trip today and make the most of your visit!
1. Magellan’s Cross
Rating: 4.4/5 (Trip.com)
Ranking: No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Cebu
Entry Fee: Free
A symbol of Cebu’s rich history, Magellan’s Cross was planted in 1521 by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, marking the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. It is housed in a small chapel near the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning (7 AM – 9 AM) to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
2. Mactan Island
Rating: 4.5/5 (Trip.com)
Ranking: No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Cebu
Entry Fee: Free
Mactan Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and excellent snorkeling and diving spots. It is also home to the Lapu-Lapu Shrine, which commemorates the island’s legendary warrior.
Best Time to Visit: November to May for the best beach weather.
3. Cebu Ocean Park
Rating: 4.6/5 (Trip.com)
Ranking: No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Cebu
Entry Fee: Starts from 675.85 PHP
The largest oceanarium in the Visayas, Cebu Ocean Park features an underwater tunnel, diverse marine species, and interactive attractions such as a fish spa and animal encounters.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid the weekend rush.
4. Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu (Basilica Minore del Santo Niño)
Rating: 4.6/5 (Trip.com) | 5-Star Rating (TripAdvisor)
Ranking: No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Cebu
Entry Fee: Free
This 16th-century church houses the Santo Niño de Cebu, the oldest religious relic in the Philippines. A major pilgrimage site, it plays a central role in the Sinulog Festival.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or during the Sinulog Festival (January) for a cultural experience.
5. Fort San Pedro
Rating: 4.4/5 (Trip.com) | 5-Star Rating (TripAdvisor)
Entry Fee: Free
Fort San Pedro, the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines, was built in the 1700s as a Spanish military defense structure. It offers insights into Cebu’s colonial past and provides scenic city views.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for cooler weather and picturesque sunset views.
6. Temple of Leah
Rating: 4.5/5 (Trip.com) | 5-Star Rating (TripAdvisor)
Entry Fee: Not specified
Often referred to as “Cebu’s Taj Mahal,” the Temple of Leah is a grand Roman-inspired monument built as a tribute to a beloved wife. It offers breathtaking views of the city.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for the golden-hour glow and a stunning sunset view.
7. Carbon Market
Rating: 4.1/5 (Trip.com)
Entry Fee: Free
Carbon Market is the oldest and busiest public market in Cebu, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local street food at budget-friendly prices.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fresh produce and to avoid the midday heat.
8. Sugbo Mercado – IT Park
Rating: 4.7/5 (Trip.com) | 5-Star Rating (TripAdvisor)
Ranking: No. 2 of Night Attractions in Cebu
Entry Fee: None
Sugbo Mercado is Cebu’s most popular night market, featuring diverse food stalls, live music, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for food lovers looking for affordable and delicious eats.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings (6 PM onwards) for the best food and entertainment.
9. 10,000 Roses Café & More
Rating: 4.2/5 (Trip.com)
Entry Fee: Around 20 PHP
A popular Instagram-worthy spot, 10,000 Roses Café features thousands of LED-lit artificial roses that create a dreamy ambiance at night, along with scenic seaside views.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset to evening when the roses light up beautifully.
10. TOPS Cebu
Rating: 4.8/5 (Trip.com) | 5-Star Rating (TripAdvisor)
Ranking: No. 1 of Night Attractions in Cebu
Entry Fee: Around 100 PHP
Offering breathtaking panoramic views of Cebu City, TOPS is a popular hilltop destination, especially in the evening when the city lights up. It’s an ideal spot for photography and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset or nighttime for the best cityscape views.
Start Planning Your Cebu Adventure
Cebu is a destination that offers something for every traveler, from cultural heritage sites to exciting urban attractions. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, Cebu has it all.
Book your trip today and experience the best of Cebu!
