A Local’s Guide to Cebu: Where to Eat, Stay, and Play
Cebu, the Queen City of the South, is a bustling metropolis in the Philippines that boasts a unique blend of urban charm, rich history, and natural beauty. Known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and scenic attractions, Cebu is a must-visit destination for both local and international travelers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone looking to explore the city like a local, this guide will help you discover the best places to eat, stay, and play in Cebu.
Where to Eat: Cebu’s Culinary Delights
Cebu is famous for its mouth-watering cuisine that reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. From street food to fine dining, here are some of the best places to eat in Cebu:
1. Larsian BBQ
- Location: Fuente Osmeña Circle, Cebu City
- Best For: BBQ lovers and late-night eats
If you want to experience authentic Cebuano street food, Larsian BBQ is the place to be. This bustling food hub is home to dozens of stalls offering freshly grilled pork, chicken, seafood, and more. The best part? You can feast on delicious, smoky barbecue at an affordable price. Don’t forget to try Cebu’s famous puso (hanging rice) and pair it with grilled pork belly and chorizo.
2. Rico’s Lechon
- Location: Multiple branches in Cebu City
- Best For: Traditional Cebu lechon
No trip to Cebu is complete without tasting the world-renowned Cebu lechon (roast pig). Rico’s Lechon is one of the top spots to savor this crispy and flavorful dish. Known for its succulent meat and perfectly seasoned skin, Rico’s offers both spicy and regular lechon variants. It’s the ultimate Cebuano food experience that you can’t miss.
3. Café Laguna
- Location: Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu Business Park
- Best For: Filipino comfort food
For those who want to indulge in traditional Filipino cuisine with a touch of elegance, Café Laguna is a must-visit. This restaurant offers a wide variety of Filipino dishes, from crispy pata and kare-kare to pancit and lumpia. The homey vibe and classic flavors make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
4. La Vie Parisienne
- Location: Gorordo Avenue, Cebu City
- Best For: French-inspired cuisine and wine
For a change of pace, head to La Vie Parisienne, a French-themed restaurant and wine library in Cebu City. Enjoy freshly baked pastries, charcuterie, and wine in their chic, Parisian-style garden. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring Cebu, with a cozy ambiance that transports you to the heart of France.
5. Sugbo Mercado
- Location: IT Park, Cebu City
- Best For: Foodies and street food lovers
Located in Cebu’s bustling IT Park, Sugbo Mercado is the city’s largest weekend food market. It features a wide array of food stalls serving everything from local Cebuano delicacies to international flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, shawarma, or dessert, Sugbo Mercado has something for everyone.
Where to Stay: Top Accommodations in Cebu
Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Cebu offers a wide variety of places to stay. Here are some of the top recommendations for every type of traveler:
1. Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa
- Location: Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City
- Best For: Luxury seekers and beach lovers
For a luxurious beachfront experience, Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa is one of the top choices in Cebu. This 5-star resort offers world-class amenities, including a private beach, multiple swimming pools, fine dining restaurants, and a full-service spa. Whether you’re lounging by the beach or indulging in their signature spa treatments, Shangri-La guarantees a lavish stay.
2. Radisson Blu Cebu
- Location: North Reclamation Area, Cebu City
- Best For: Business travelers and those who want convenience
Located near SM City Cebu, one of the largest malls in the region, Radisson Blu offers a blend of modern luxury and convenience. This upscale hotel is perfect for business travelers and tourists who want easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and transportation hubs.
3. Quest Hotel and Conference Center
- Location: Cebu Business Park, Cebu City
- Best For: Budget-conscious travelers
If you’re looking for a hotel that offers comfort without breaking the bank, Quest Hotel is a great option. Situated in the heart of Cebu’s business district, this hotel is a favorite among budget-conscious travelers. It features modern amenities, an outdoor pool, and is walking distance from Ayala Center Cebu.
4. Plantation Bay Resort and Spa
- Location: Marigondon, Mactan Island
- Best For: Families and relaxation
Plantation Bay Resort and Spa is a family-friendly resort known for its sprawling saltwater lagoons and colonial architecture. This resort offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, wall climbing, and biking, making it a great choice for families looking for a fun and relaxing vacation.
5. Down South Hostel
- Location: Moalboal, Cebu
- Best For: Backpackers and budget travelers
For backpackers and adventure seekers, Down South Hostel in Moalboal offers affordable and comfortable accommodations. It’s a popular spot for divers and those exploring Cebu’s southern attractions, such as Kawasan Falls and Osmena Peak.
Where to Play: Top Activities and Attractions in Cebu
From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, Cebu offers a diverse range of activities to keep every traveler entertained.
1. Visit Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño
- Location: Cebu City
- Best For: History buffs and religious travelers
A trip to Cebu City wouldn’t be complete without visiting Magellan’s Cross and the nearby Basilica del Santo Niño. These two historical landmarks are deeply rooted in Cebu’s religious and colonial history. Magellan’s Cross marks the spot where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted Christianity in the Philippines, while the Basilica is home to the Santo Niño, the oldest religious relic in the country.
2. Explore Kawasan Falls
- Location: Badian, Cebu
- Best For: Adventure seekers and nature lovers
For nature enthusiasts, Kawasan Falls in Badian is one of Cebu’s most popular natural attractions. The multi-tiered waterfalls offer crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and bamboo rafting. Adventure seekers can also take part in canyoneering, an exhilarating activity that involves trekking and jumping from waterfalls.
3. Snorkeling and Diving in Moalboal
- Location: Moalboal, Cebu
- Best For: Divers and marine wildlife enthusiasts
Moalboal, located in southern Cebu, is a haven for diving and snorkeling. It’s famous for its sardine run, where millions of sardines swim in synchronized patterns just a few meters from the shore. Pescador Island is another diving spot known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a top destination for underwater enthusiasts.
4. Whale Shark Watching in Oslob
- Location: Oslob, Cebu
- Best For: Marine wildlife encounters
In Oslob, you can experience swimming with the gentle giants of the ocean—whale sharks. Oslob has become a popular destination for whale shark watching, offering visitors the unique opportunity to get up close with these majestic creatures.
5. Hike Osmena Peak
- Location: Dalaguete, Cebu
- Best For: Hikers and photographers
For those who love hiking, Osmena Peak is the highest point in Cebu and offers stunning panoramic views of the island. The trek to the peak is relatively easy, making it accessible for beginners. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of rolling hills and the coastline.
Conclusion
Cebu offers a perfect balance of history, adventure, and relaxation, making it a top destination for all types of travelers. Whether you’re feasting on local delicacies, diving with whale sharks, or simply soaking in the beauty of its beaches, Cebu guarantees an unforgettable experience. With this local guide to the best places to eat, stay, and play, you’ll discover why Cebu truly is the Queen City of the South.
