15 Unique Things to do in Cebu Philippines Post

Are you looking for the most unique things to do in Cebu Philippines? These are some of the most recommended places to visit Cebu Philippines.

Planning a trip to Cebu is super exciting! If you’re anything like me, you’re here because you love to research and plan your trip ahead of time. As an avid traveler, I am giving you a list of the best Cebu tourist spots.

You are going to learn about things to do like museums, scenic parks, where to eat, and more. After learning about these places, you are going to be ready for your next Philippines and Cebu travel adventure!

This post is my 15 unique things to do in Cebu Philippines.

Things to do in Cebu

Museums & Malls

Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House

One of the most famous landmarks in Cebu and one of the oldest houses in the Philippines is the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House. This family home was originally built in the late 1600s by Chinese merchant Don Juan Yap and his wife. It has remained in the family throughout the years and in 2008 became a historical museum.

It is a really unique tourist spot in the Philippines! During the tour you will learn about the family’s history as well as the changes that have occurred in the home throughout the years and the historic events that have shaped Cebu. I highly recommend visiting the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House.

Casa Gorordo Museum

Another museum house is Casa Gorordo. It is a national historic landmark! Built in the 1850s, it is a unique colonial home because it incorporates both Spanish and Chinese architecture influences. Aside from being able to tour the house, the museum offers many special events throughout the year. Check out their website before you visit to see if anything is going on during your trip!

Cebu Taoist Temple

Built in 1972 by Chinese-Filipinos, the Taoist temple is unique because it is open to worshipers and non-worshipers alike. The entrance to the temple is a replica of the Great Wall of China. What also makes this temple unique is the fact that it is a place of worship for those who are not catholic, as catholicism is the national religion of the Philippines.

I recommend visiting this temple for its beauty and to take some time for meditation and relaxation. When visiting, it is important to respect the sacred temple by observing silence and covering arms and legs (no sleeveless shirts or shorts).

Magellan’s Cross Pavilion

In 1521, explorers led by Ferdinand Magellan planted a wooden cross here in Cebu as part of the Spanish expedition of the first circumnavigation of the world. In the 1800s, this pavilion was built to house the original wooden cross. A landmark located outside the Basilica del Santo Niño, I recommend visiting to observe this special part of Philippine history.

Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro is a military defense structure in Cebu built by the Spanish. The current structure was built in 1738 making it the oldest triangular bastion fort in the Philippines. If you are interested in military history, this is definitely a tourist spot worth checking out.

Ayala Center Cebu

One of the largest malls in Cebu City is Ayala Center Cebu. If you’re looking to do some shopping or stay out of the heat, this is a fun place to visit. There are multiple floors of stores and restaurants. A whole day can easily be spent here! Check out stores like Mango, Cotton On, Merrell, The Body Shop, Esprit, Nike, and more.

Parks & Resorts

Sirao Pictorial Garden

If you’re looking for gorgeous views, instagram worthy photo opportunities, and a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, you must visit Sirao Pictorial Garden. This outdoor park is a fun place for the whole family. There are structures that can be climbed to get better aerial views of Cebu as well as flowers and gardens to walk through. Definitely add this park to your Cebu itinerary.

Shangri-La Mactan

A visit to Cebu must include a beach day. Known for having the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, Cebu offers several beach fronts and resorts. I recommend visiting Shangri-La Mactan Cebu Resort for a fun weekend getaway, or even a day trip. The resort offers beautiful ocean front access, where you can snorkel or jet ski. There are also several pools available throughout the property.

Restaurants

Charlie’s Cup

Charlie’s Cup offers incredible views while you enjoy a delicious beverage or meal. A roadside restaurant with plenty of outdoor seating, a tree house, and swings, it’s a great place for young and old. The spectacular views of the mountains can be enjoyed while eating ube halaya and drinking a latte.

Jollibee

Jollibee is the McDonald’s of the Philippines. It’s not a true tourist trip without trying some of their famous menu items like chicken joy, jolly spaghetti, yum burger and peach mango pie. There are several locations throughout the city, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try it out.

Top of Cebu

If you’re looking for the best views of all of Cebu City, you must visit Top of Cebu restaurant. This restaurant sits on top of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the entire city. They have a wide variety of items on their menu including salad, seafood, traditional Filipino dishes, and dessert.

Must Try Foods

Aside from restaurants, some must try foods are:

Cebu Mangos

Cebu has the best mangoes in the entire country and probably the world. They are incredibly sweet and so delicious. I recommend eating them fresh, in a shake, or bringing home dried mangoes to enjoy long after your trip.

Corn on the Cob

If you are driving around and happen to see a street vendor selling fresh corn on the cob, definitely stop and buy some! Freshly steamed, the corn is soft and moist. A delicious, easy snack!

Lechon

It’s not a visit to Cebu without trying lechon! Lechon is roasted pork, and Cebu claims to have the best in all of the Philippines. The best part is the pork belly with crispy skin. Eat it with rice and pinakurat (coconut vinegar) for dipping.

Halo Halo

Halo Halo means mix-mix, and this dessert is popular in filipino cuisine. Many restaurants will have this on their dessert menu. It is a combination of shaved ice, ube flavored ice cream, beans, jelly candy, coconut, and more. It is important to mix it well before eating.