Cebu Tourist Spots Guide 2019

Dubbed the Queen City of the South, Cebu is a bustling metropolis known for its
beautiful beaches and impressive historical sights. The city’s energy is very infectious. In
fact, it has a very vibrant nightlife scene. And although the city is now surrounded with
towering residential structures and offices, it has still managed to retain its laidback vibe.
If you’re planning a trip to Cebu and wondering what to see, check out this Cebu tourist
spots guide 2019.

1. Magellan’s Cross

The Magellan’s Cross is a significant symbol of Christianity in the Philippines. This cross
was planted in March 1521 by the Portuguese and Spanish explorers who first brought
Christianity in the Philippines. Thus, this tourist site plays a significant role not only in
the history of Cebu but also in the entire Philippines. This cross is just right at the back of
the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, which is another popular Cebu tourist spot.

2. Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu

Just like the Magellan’s Cross, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño also plays an
important role in the history of Christianity in the Philippines. Built during 1565, this
church was the first-ever Catholic Church to have been established in the Philippines.
This church houses the revered holy child, Santo Niño de Cebu, a baby Jesus statue that
was given by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, and is worshipped by the Roman Catholics.

3. Casa Gorordo Museum

For a glimpse into the history of Cebu, check out the Casa Gorordo Museum, a museum
that houses an interesting collection of antique furniture, ancient old paintings, costumes,
and religious images. This house was bought by a Spanish merchant named Juan Isidro
de Gorordo and used to be the home of the first bishop of Cebu, Juan Gorordo.

4. Museo Sugbu

Another museum that’s worth a visit on your Cebu tour is the Museo Sugbu. The building
that houses the museum has an interesting history itself. It was built in 1871 and was
originally designed as a prison to accommodate criminals during the Philippine
revolution. Nowadays, the museum has galleries that depict the history of Philippine
politics and it also showcases various archeological facts that were excavated in Cebu
way back 1600.

5. Cebu Taoist Temple

Built in the year 1972 by the Chinese community of Cebu, the Taoist Temple is one of
the most popular Cebu tourist spots. It’s an intricately designed temple that’s a mini
replica of the Great Wall of China. At the top, there’s a viewing deck that opens to the
gorgeous view of the entire city of Cebu. Take note that devotees and worshippers are
still using this temple for prayers so you must observe silence when visiting the place.

6. Heritage of Cebu Monument

This monument is located close to the street of Colon. The structure is a representation of
Cebu’s culture, tradition, and history. Made of concrete, steel, and brass, the monument
includes the Basilica del Santo Niño, Saint John the Baptist Church, the Cebu
Metropolitan Cathedral, Magellan’s Cross, and the Spanish Galleon.

7. Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro was originally built as a military defense structure during the time of the
Spaniards. The original fort was made entirely of woods but was replaced with stone
around the 17th century in order to drive away Muslim invaders. Nowadays, the fort
houses a museum that displays old artifacts and legacies from the Spanish government.
Although the structures are partly ruined, it’s still a great place to explore and a peaceful
retreat away from the chaos of the busy city streets.

8. Sirao Garden

The Sirao Garden is a vast expanse of flower gardens located in the mountainous portion
of Cebu. It’s now one of the most visited Cebu tourist spots, due to its Instagram-worthy
views. The colorful flowers look very fascinating especially during the flower season and
will remind you of those beautiful flower gardens in the Netherlands.

9. Sky Experience Adventure

If you’re looking for some fun and thrilling activities during your trip to Cebu, check out
the Sky Experience Adventure at the rooftop of the Crown Regency Hotel. Here, you get
to experience different extreme activities that include walking by the side of the building
on the 38th floor. You can also try the Edge Coaster where you’ll be sitting by the edge
of the building or go zip lining at the Tower Zip.

10. Tempe of Leah

The Temple of Leah is one of the newest Cebu tourist spots and is definitely worth a visit
on your trip to the city. Constructed in 2012, the massive temple consists of 24 chambers
that house a museum, art gallery, bar, and library. There are also life-sized statues of
Roman gladiators, angels, and lions all over the building. As you enter this magnificent
temple, a wide staircase made of stone will greet you, and this will take you to the lobby
where you’ll find a 10-foot statue of Leah, the woman to whom this temple was built for.

1. Colon Street
The street of Colon is a historical street in Cebu as it’s the oldest street in the Philippines.
Built by the Spaniards in the early 1500s, nowadays, Colon is a very crowded and lively
street. It’s lined with some old buildings and colonial shops and a lot of Cebuanos would
come here to shop since it’s home to some shopping malls and Chinese owned shops that
sell affordable goods.

As you see, there are so many interesting sights to see in Cebu, other than its beautiful
beaches. If you want to fully explore the city at your own pace, renting your own car is
highly recommended. This will save you a lot of time and hassle, especially since some
of these sights are located a few minutes drive away from the city.

1. Mactan Island

Cebu is known for its gorgeous beaches. Although some of the most popular beaches are
a few hours drive from the city, the nearest ones are in the island of Mactan. This island
is home to some of the best beach resorts in Cebu, as well as luxury hotels and spas. If
you want a relaxing holiday on your trip to Cebu, this is where you should stay.