Cebu City 3-Day Trip Itinerary
Cebu City Trip - Jan 30 to Feb 1
A 3-day cultural and historical immersion in Cebu City, exploring ancient sites, colonial heritage, vibrant markets, and unique mountain attractions. The itinerary is designed for a traveler staying near IT Park with a midnight flight departure on Day 3.
Arrival & Highland Temples Exploration
Friday, January 30Arrive in Mactan-Cebu
Arrive at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) from Manila.
Proceed to your hotel near IT Park for check-in and to drop off your luggage.
From the airport, you can take a Grab car or a white/yellow taxi to your hotel in IT Park. Travel time is approximately 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Hotel Check-in & Refresh
Check into your hotel near IT Park and get settled.
Take some time to freshen up before starting your day's adventure.
Early check-in might be possible depending on availability, otherwise, you can leave your luggage at the reception.
Brunch near IT Park
Enjoy a hearty brunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants around IT Park before heading out for your mountain tour.
Sirao Garden (Little Amsterdam)
Visit Sirao Garden, also known as 'Little Amsterdam,' famous for its vibrant flower fields and picturesque views.
It's a great spot for photos.
Wear comfortable shoes as there might be some walking. Best visited during good weather. You can hire a Grab/taxi for a half-day tour of the mountain attractions, which is usually more cost-effective.
Temple of Leah
Explore the grand Temple of Leah, a Roman-inspired temple built as a symbol of undying love.
Enjoy panoramic views of Cebu City from its elevated location.
It's a short drive from Sirao Garden. Entrance fee is usually collected upon arrival.
Cebu Taoist Temple
Visit the colorful and serene Cebu Taoist Temple, offering intricate architecture and another great viewpoint of the city.
Observe the rituals and practices of Taoism.
Please observe silence and respect the sacredness of the place. Dress modestly. Often included in mountain tours.
This is typically the last stop on a mountain tour before heading back down to the city.
Dinner in IT Park
Return to IT Park and unwind with dinner at one of its many restaurants.
Choose from various cuisines, including local Filipino dishes.
Historical Core & Local Culture
Saturday, January 31Magellan's Cross
Visit Magellan's Cross, a historical landmark planted by Ferdinand Magellan's expedition in 1521, marking the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines.
It is housed in a small chapel next to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
Take a Grab or taxi from IT Park to the downtown area. Many historical sites are within walking distance of each other.
Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño
Explore the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, home to the revered Santo Niño de Cebu image, the oldest religious relic in the Philippines.
Often crowded, especially on weekends. Dress respectfully. This is a significant pilgrimage site.
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
Walk to the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, the ecclesiastical seat of the Archdiocese of Cebu.
Admire its traditional Spanish colonial architecture.
A short walk from the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
Casa Gorordo Museum
Step back in time at Casa Gorordo, a preserved 19th-century colonial house showcasing lifestyle and culture during the Spanish era in Cebu.
A guided tour is usually available and highly recommended for insights into the exhibits.
Lunch in Heritage District
Savor traditional Cebuano dishes at a local eatery in the heritage district.
Try 'kinilaw' (ceviche) or 'lechon kawali'.
Cebu Walking Tour
Join a guided walking tour to discover the history, culture, and local food experience of Cebu.
Explore hidden gems and hear fascinating stories from a local.
This tour offers a personal touch and local insights, sharing stories and cultural traditions. Book in advance.
Relaxation at a Spa
After a day of walking, indulge in a relaxing massage or spa treatment.
The Spa at Radisson Blu Cebu is a highly-rated option.
Book an appointment in advance, especially during peak hours.
Dinner at Ayala Center Cebu
Enjoy dinner at Ayala Center Cebu, a modern shopping mall with a wide array of dining options, from casual to upscale.
Marine Life, Museums & Departure
Sunday, February 1Cebu Ocean Park
Discover the largest oceanarium in the Philippines.
Explore diverse marine life, learn about conservation, and be inspired by the underwater world.
A great indoor activity for educational and inspiring marine-life experience.
University of San Carlos Museum
Visit the University of San Carlos Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts, ethnographic materials, and archaeological finds related to Cebuano history and culture.
A quiet place to learn more about the region's heritage.
Farewell Cebuano Lunch
Enjoy your final authentic Cebuano lunch.
Consider trying 'pochero' (beef stew) or more lechon.
Souvenir Shopping
Do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Ayala Center Cebu or SM City Cebu are good options for a variety of local products, dried mangoes, and handicrafts.
Ayala Center Cebu is a convenient choice for its wide selection and proximity to IT Park.
Hotel Check-out & Luggage
Check out from your hotel.
You can either retrieve your luggage if you left it or finalize your check-out process. You might want to avail of a late check-out if possible, given your midnight flight.
Confirm late check-out options with the hotel if you wish to rest or use the room longer. Otherwise, arrange for luggage storage.
Early Dinner & Airport Transfer Prep
Have an early dinner.
Afterwards, ensure all your belongings are packed and you're ready for your airport transfer. Consider airport lounges if you have access.
Transfer to Mactan-Cebu Airport
Head to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) for your midnight flight back to Manila.
Allow ample time for traffic and airport procedures.
Book a Grab car or taxi in advance, especially since it's an evening transfer. Travel time is approximately 30-60 minutes.
Depart from Cebu
Board your midnight flight from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) back to Manila.
This 3-day itinerary for Cebu City can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.