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Check out some of the top free things to do in Cebu and a brief travel guide for backpackers, no doubt that Cebu is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines.
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Top Free Things to Do inCebu – A Backpackers’ Guide © Hoodaki 2014
Beaches, heritage sites and incredible landmarks – all make Cebu a wonderful destination. Go diving at Moalboal, enjoy spectacular sights at Mactan Island, visit Bohol for its incredible Chocolate Hills and take a tour of the city itself. Cebu can refer to either a province in the Philippines or the biggest of the 168 islands that comprise this province. The City of Cebu serves as the capital of this province, and this is what we mean when we talk about Cebu. About City © Hoodaki 2014
The city is served by Mactan-Cebu International Airport, which is located in Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island. Backpackers need to plan early for a good travel deal to come by. Search for the best fares on the World Wide Web, check out leading airlines for their flight schedules and discount offers, or simply ask a trusted travel agent, such as Hoodaki, for reliable information on cheap flights to Cebu. You may also like to go through a good backpacker’s guide and tips on Cebu holidays. Getting in & Getting Around © Hoodaki 2014
From the airport, it will at least be a two-hour drive to reach the city center. Taxis are the only option, but their fares are reasonable. The fixed rate taxi terminal as well as yellow-metered taxi terminal is located just outside the airport. If you are traveling with a small backpack and don’t mind sharing a ride with several co-passengers, then Jeepneys might be a good idea. © Hoodaki 2014
Jeepneys are everywhere in Cebu and can be noticed easily because of their flamboyant colors. They are a great way to explore the city and its surroundings at very affordable prices. Taxis should be avoided as they can be expensive and there is also a chance of you being overcharged. Buses are ideal for long-distance travel on the island and boats are excellent to visit other islands and even places on Cebu Island. © Hoodaki 2014
Most Cebu hotels and resorts cater to luxury seekers and affluent tourists. However, it is not impossible to find affordable hotels and backpacker hostels in the city. In general, a Cebu backpacker’s guide might not be helpful in pinpointing the accommodation that fit your budget. You need to fall back on resources available locally as the prices and amenities are subject to change quickly. Where to Stay & What to Eat © Hoodaki 2014
Avoid staying on Mactan Island which is filled with all kinds of luxury resorts. Instead, you can either go to Moalboal and seek a budget option on the beach or stick to Cebu City and stay in a budget-friendly hotel or hostel. Pelaez St, Mabolo and Capitol Site are some of the areas where you can find affordable accommodation options within the city. © Hoodaki 2014
Street-food is incredibly cheap here, and it is found everywhere in the city. Backpackers and those traveling on budget should not mind tasting Filipino delicacies from such food vendors although they can also find an array of decent restaurants within their affordable range. Don’t miss to relish local dishes, such as SuTuKil and Lechon, during Cebu holidays. © Hoodaki 2014
Top Free Things to Do in Cebu © Hoodaki 2014
Visiting a very old church known as the Basilica of Santo Nino can be one of the top free things to do in Cebu. One of the oldest churches in the Philippines, the Basilica is home to the oldest relic, Santo Nino, which dates back to the 16th century. Located on Mactan Island, it can easily be visited by a jeepney. Most jeepney drivers seem to be familiar with the site. The Basilica of Santo Nino © Hoodaki 2014
Another must-visit attraction is Magellan’s Cross, which refers to a very old relic that has been in existence since the sixteenth century. Erected by the famous Spanish conquistador in 1521, the establishment of Cross heralded the beginning of Christianity in the Philippines. It is situated in Magellan Street, across from Cebu City Hall, on Mactan Island. Magellan’s Cross © Hoodaki 2014
Feast your eyes on the beautiful Taoist Temple located on Mactan Island. Visiting Taoist Temple will certainly be one of the top free things to do in Cebu. Visitors are particularly impressed by the pagoda-style roof and the entrance that looks like a replica of the Great Wall of China. Also enjoy scenic views of Cebu City from the spacious balconies of Taoist Temple. Taoist Temple © Hoodaki 2014
Also known as Lapu-Lapu Shrine, it is a 20 meters bronze statue located in Lapu-Lapu City. The monument has been erected in memory of Lapu-Lapu who defeated Spanish soldiers in the Battle of Mactan in 1521. Typically recommended by a Cebu backpacker’s guide, Lapu-Lapu Monument is quite popular with all kinds of tourists. Lapu-Lapu Monument © Hoodaki 2014
One of the top free things to do in Cebu is to go island hopping. The main island of Cebu is surrounded by a large number of smaller islands, which can serve as great retreats for backpackers. Though you need to spend some money moving between these islands, exploring beaches, lush forests and fabulous natural attractions on any of these Islands won’t cost money. Some of the popular islands include Malapascua, Bohol, Pangklao, Siquior and Bantayan. Island Hopping © Hoodaki 2014
The beaches and marine attractions of Moalboal are worth a visit even if you need to spend some money. Take a bus instead of hiring a taxi and stick to attractions that can easily be accessed without paying a penny. Visiting beaches and enjoying natural attractions, such as waterfalls, caves and canyons should not cost you any money. Snorkeling, diving and nightlife are some of the best things to do in Moalboal, but you need to spend a little. Moalboal © Hoodaki 2014
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