Cebu is home to stunning works of nature, offering adrenaline-pumping activities such as whale shark watching in Oslob or canyoneering the Gatorade blue waters of Kawasan Falls.
Cebu City boasts several museums and ancestral houses where you can gain insight into its rich culture. Furthermore, Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary provides an oasis of tropical plants and flowers filled with butterfly activity. Taipei to Osaka planes can be accessed through Cathay Pacific.
1. Basilica del Santo Nino
Basilica del Santo Nino immediately strikes one with its magnificent architecture and profound religious significance to Filipino society. As one of the oldest churches in the Philippines and most frequently visited tourist attraction by both locals and tourists alike, its unique design draws influence from European cathedrals while housing religious artifacts that fascinate visitors.
Basilica del Santo Nino houses the revered statue of Jesus Christ known as Santo Nio. Considered one of the country’s most venerated icons, locals come here regularly to pray and make wishes at its site. Furthermore, locals consider it miraculous image which may explain its longstanding popularity within local chapels and see it in person.
Cebu City and Cebu Church are great places to explore Philippine history and religion, both of which have UNESCO World Heritage status as World Heritage sites. Additionally, Cebu’s rich past is represented by its cathedral – also a World Heritage Site! Furthermore, there is also a museum and library on site, making this an excellent way to learn about Cebu and Philippine history.
Oslob Whale Shark Sanctuary in Cebu is another amazing natural attraction worth seeing, attracting thousands of people each year to witness these gentle giants in their natural environment. A visit here promises an unforgettable experience sure to leave a lasting impression!
Osmena Peak provides another captivating view of the city. Situated in the southern section, this mountain offers a challenging hiking trail for adventurers eager to reach its summit and witness jaw-dropping panoramas of Badian Island, Tanon Strait, and Negros Oriental Province from its peak.
Sirao Flower Farm is another must-see tourist attraction. Filled with beautiful blooming flowers, it makes an excellent place to enjoy fresh air while tasting some authentic Filipino street food such as banana que.
2. Ayala Center Shopping Mall
Cebu is the ideal city for shopping pasalubong (souvenirs). No matter if you are local looking for an entertaining mall to unwind in or a tourist looking for unique souvenirs from their trip, Cebu has plenty of shopping opportunities that are suitable for both of them. Ayala Center Mall is among the more well-known malls here but there are several department stores and smaller malls you could check out as well.
Ayala Center offers more than just shopping. It’s also an ideal spot for families traveling with young children, boasting multiple play areas, mini parks and plenty of restaurants – plus being one of the less crowded malls nearby, you’ll be able to take your time perusing its aisles until finding those ideal souvenirs!
Parkmall in Mandaue City offers another great shopping destination in the area – Pet-friendly malls such as Parkmall provide pet owners with an ideal way to travel with their furry friends on trips. Plus, with some of the city’s top restaurants available here you can be assured your food will taste delectably and affordably!
The Temple of Leah is one of the city’s most captivating and unique attractions, dedicated to one man’s love for his late wife Leah and containing many of her personal belongings in individual chambers inside its walls. A visit here will surely leave an indelible mark upon anyone visiting this special spot.
History buffs can gain more insights into Cebu by visiting Basilica del Santo Nino Cathedral. This breathtaking structure serves as the epicenter of Catholic pride in Cebu and features intricate statues that will astound visitors, making this spot the ideal location to admire its intricate architecture.
Other than churches, the city offers many fascinating historical sites for you to explore. If you want to enjoy nature in all its beauty then make a trip out to Tops Lookout where you’ll get panoramic views from its highest point! Alternatively if you feel adventurous you could try cliff jumping and beach bars at nearby Virgin Island or visit Bantayan Island’s saltwater lagoon for even more exciting experiences!
3. Cebu Provincial Museum
Cebu Province in the Philippines is the oldest, and its history can be seen through some of its best museums. A visit to any one of them is an invaluable way of learning about both its people and culture; one such museum, housed in what used to be a jail, is Cebu Provincial Museum which houses four permanent galleries as well as three special exhibition rooms that should not be missed by history enthusiasts.
The museum exhibits are organized into different eras that depict how life in this region has evolved over time. A visit to the gallery dedicated to pre-colonial period can be particularly educational; here you’ll find bones, tools and silverware on display from this time period. Additionally, there’s a section showing centuries-old trade negotiations with Arabs, Chinese and Thais that offers insights into centuries of trade between these groups.
American visitors to the Philippines can see letters and memorabilia belonging to Thomas Sharpe, one of 1065 teachers sent there as part of President McKinley’s promise to “educate the natives.” Additionally, there is a war gallery which may be upsetting as you walk through bayonets that have been used on many bodies (some may never return) alongside old ammunition rations uniforms and medals which show bravery by our armed forces fighting hard for Philippine freedom.
Be sure to visit the Philippine-American Freedom Monument on Colon Street as well. Created by Eduardo Castrillo, this postmodern work of art features sculptures depicting all the major events from Cebu’s history – making for an impressive sight and opportunity to reflect upon our country’s past.
If you prefer outdoor adventures, why not visit Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary in Cebu City. Boasting an impressive display of butterflies, this fascinating attraction draws nature lovers like butterflies fluttering around you – making this one of the top Cebu tourist attractions to relax in nature!
4. Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary
The Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary is an irresistibly charming museum, art gallery and butterfly garden which honors the passion of late Cebuano lepidopterist Julian Jumalon. Housed in an ancestral home with an unassuming facade behind a public school in central Cebu City, it can easily be missed without knowing where it is. Once inside you’ll be welcomed by Ma’am Jumaida who offers tours in either English or Cebuano as she introduces you around its collections of butterflies, shells, paintings as well as stunning lepido-mosaics made out of donated butterfly wings from across the globe (Jumalon was himself an artist himself).
This remarkable aviary boasts more than 55 species of butterflies from the Philippines and around the globe. Additionally, there is an interesting collection of butterfly-related objects, including sculptures created using damaged butterfly wings. A highlight of this attraction is being able to hold and release live butterflies – making this attraction perfect for families or nature enthusiasts!
Attractions at Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary include its garden, filled with plants that attract butterflies and moths from across the city. You’ll also discover lepido-mosaics here which feature numerous sites within the city as well as notable national figures – amazing pieces made out of butterflies’ wings!
The Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary is a must-see attraction when visiting Cebu! Offering plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, this charming butterfly sanctuary is the perfect way to pass an enjoyable afternoon on this captivating island city!
