Cebu in 2 Days: An Unforgettable Island Adventure

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by Aiden

March 29, 2024 · 2 min read

Cebu 2 Days Itinerary

Embark on a thrilling 2-day journey through Cebu, where adventure and history intertwine. Begin your escapade with the awe-inspiring Oslob Whale Shark Watching experience, where you'll spend 3 hours up close with these gentle giants. Afterward, set sail to the pristine Sumilon Island, a tropical paradise where you can unwind for the rest of the day. Day 2 dives into the underwater spectacle at Moalboal Sardines Storm, offering a full day of outdoor diving amidst a ballet of countless sardines. As the sun sets, step back in time at Fort San Pedro, a testament to Cebu's military past, and then pay homage to the historic Magellan's Cross. Continue your walk through history with a visit to the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, a cornerstone of Cebu's religious heritage. Conclude your cultural exploration at the serene Cebu Taoist Temple, reflecting on the tranquility and spiritual ambiance. This 2-day itinerary is a tapestry of natural wonders and cultural landmarks, promising an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Philippines.

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Cheap Flights
Top 6 Hotels in Cebu
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Red Planet Cebu
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Hotel Elizabeth Cebu
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bai Hotel Cebu
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Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort
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Fili Hotel Nustar Cebu
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85 reviews
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Day 1: Majestic Marine Encounters and Island Serenity in Cebu

1

Oslob Whale Shark Watching

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Kickstart your Cebu adventure with an exhilarating morning at Oslob Whale Shark Watching. As the first stop of the day, immerse yourself in the gentle giants' domain, where the azure waters become a dance floor for the whale sharks. Spend around three hours in awe, witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Located at F97H+9W, Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Oslob, this experience promises to be a highlight of your trip, offering a unique opportunity to get up close with one of the ocean's most fascinating inhabitants.

Attraction Info

  • F97H+9W, Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Oslob, 6023 Cebu, Philippines
  • Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
  • Open from 6:00am-12:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

La Terrasse
La Terrasse
4/5 · 3 reviews
0.1 km from attraction
Chez Tonton
Chez Tonton
/5 · 0 reviews
0.0 km from attraction
Caferoniq
Caferoniq
/5 · 0 reviews
0.5 km from attraction
Island Front / Bangcogon Resort and Restaurant
Island Front / Bangcogon Resort and Restaurant
/5 · 0 reviews
1.2 km from attraction
Cocina En Acantilado
Cocina En Acantilado
/5 · 0 reviews
0.9 km from attraction
Luka Coffee Oslob
Luka Coffee Oslob
/5 · 0 reviews
2.2 km from attraction
5 min,2.49 km
2

Sumilon Island

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After the thrills of whale watching, escape to the tranquil oasis of Sumilon Island. As the day unfolds, let the island's pristine sands and crystal-clear waters be your sanctuary. With a full day to explore, relax, or dive into the vibrant underwater world, Sumilon Island is the perfect counterpoint to the morning's excitement. Although it's just a dot on the map, this island paradise encapsulates the essence of Cebu's natural beauty, making it an unmissable stop on your two-day itinerary.

Attraction Info

  • Philippines
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
4.5/559 Reviews
4.5/5Excellent59 Reviews
Sumilon Island
|0.17km from Sumilon Island
4.3/535 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent35 Reviews
Oslob
|2.73km from Sumilon Island
2/52 Reviews
2/52 Reviews
Oslob
|3.29km from Sumilon Island
3.7/55 Reviews
3.7/55 Reviews
Oslob
|3.36km from Sumilon Island

Day 2: Diving into History and Harmony in Cebu

1

Moalboal Sardines Storm

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Kickstart your second day in Cebu with an underwater spectacle at Moalboal Sardines Storm. Just a short trip from the city, this diving haven offers a unique experience where you can swim amidst millions of sardines, creating an unforgettable marine dance. The sardine run is not just a visual treat but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant aquatic life of Cebu. With a full day dedicated to exploring the depths, you're in for an adventure that's both thrilling and serene.

Attraction Info

  • Moalboal, Cebu, Philippines
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Lantaw Restaurant
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4.1/5 · 8 reviews
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Three Bears Restaurant
5/5 · 1 review
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LAST FILLING STATION Restaurant
4.3/5 · 6 reviews
3.9 km from attraction
The Pleasure Principle Restobar
The Pleasure Principle Restobar
4/5 · 4 reviews
3.9 km from attraction
The French Coffee Shop
The French Coffee Shop
4.3/5 · 12 reviews
3.9 km from attraction
Three Crowns Bistro and Bar
Three Crowns Bistro and Bar
/5 · 0 reviews
2.0 km from attraction
2 h 30 min,86.76 km
2

Fort San Pedro

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After emerging from the depths, step back in time at Fort San Pedro, the oldest military defense structure in the country. Spend an hour wandering through the fort's storied walls and imagine the echoes of historical battles. This relic of Spanish colonial power now serves as a peaceful refuge, with gardens and an insightful museum that narrates Cebu's rich past.

Attraction Info

  • 7WR4+X7J, A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 8:00am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Mott 32 | Cebu
Mott 32 | Cebu
/5 · 0 reviews
3.5 km from attraction
Vikings Cebu
Vikings Cebu
4.7/5 · 10 reviews
2.6 km from attraction
Spice Fusion
Spice Fusion
4.7/5 · 18 reviews
2.6 km from attraction
Hukad sa Golden Cowrie
Hukad sa Golden Cowrie
4.3/5 · 7 reviews
2.9 km from attraction
Chowking
Chowking
4.2/5 · 13 reviews
2.9 km from attraction
Isla Sugbu Seafood City (Grandcon Cebu)
Isla Sugbu Seafood City (Grandcon Cebu)
3.8/5 · 9 reviews
3.3 km from attraction
13 min,1.01 km
3

Magellan's Cross

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Continue your historical journey with a visit to Magellan's Cross, a symbol of Cebu's role in the introduction of Christianity to the Philippines. This iconic landmark, housed in a small chapel, marks where the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted the cross on Philippine soil. Spend an hour soaking in the significance of this site and the blend of cultures it represents.

Attraction Info

  • 7WV2+CQG, P. Burgos St, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
  • Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
  • Open from 8:00am-6:00pm
4 min,0.29 km
4

Basilica Minore del Santo Nino

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A short stroll away is the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, a cornerstone of Philippine religious heritage. Dedicate an hour to explore this historic building and church, which houses the revered statue of the Santo Nino de Cebu. As you wander through its hallowed halls, you'll be captivated by the basilica's blend of history, art, and spirituality.

Attraction Info

  • Pilgrim’s Center, Osmeña Blvd, Cebu City, Cebu
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 6:00am-7:00pm
21 min,6.09 km
5

Cebu Taoist Temple

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Conclude your day with a serene hour at the Cebu Taoist Temple, perched in the city's hills. This temple is not only a place of worship but also a sanctuary of peace and reflection. Marvel at the intricate architecture and the panoramic views of Cebu. The temple's welcoming atmosphere allows visitors from all walks of life to discover the philosophies of Taoism and find a moment of tranquility.

Attraction Info

  • 8VMQ+M5X, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 8:00am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

AA BBQ
AA BBQ
4.2/5 · 27 reviews
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Isla Sugbu Seafood City (Grandcon Cebu)
3.8/5 · 9 reviews
2.2 km from attraction
Chowking
Chowking
4.2/5 · 13 reviews
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Tymad Bistro
Tymad Bistro
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Hukad sa Golden Cowrie
Hukad sa Golden Cowrie
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Cafe Marco
Cafe Marco
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4.3/512 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent12 Reviews
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Cebu
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4.3/519 Reviews
4.3/5Excellent19 Reviews
Cebu Downtown
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2.9/512 Reviews
Cebu Downtown
Cebu
|1.2km from Cebu Taoist Temple
4.2/52 Reviews
4.2/5Very Good2 Reviews
Cebu Downtown
Cebu
|1.2km from Cebu Taoist Temple

Top Things to Do in Cebu-2024

TOP 2
Magellan's Cross
Magellan's Cross
4.3/5 · 335 review
Highlights:
The Magellan Cross is the symbol of Cebu, and the image of the chapel appears in the center of the city emblem. This is the cross that Magellan erected on the beach after arriving in Cebu, symbolizing the colonization of the islands by the Spanish king, and is now housed in a hexagonal pavilion in the center of Cebu City Hall. The ceiling frescoes of the hexagonal chapel still retain their original appearance, and the realistic ceiling frescoes on the top of the cross are of great ornamental value. Cebuans believe in and respect this cross with historical and cultural significance. Every Sunday morning, countless good men and women bring incense and candles to pray for peace and good luck.
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TOP 4
Basilica Minore del Santo Nino
Basilica Minore del Santo Nino
4.6/5 · 249 review
Highlights:
The Church of the Holy Infant is located near Magellan's Cross. It was rebuilt in 1740 and has a history of more than 200 years. It is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines. In a room of the church there is a statue of a young Jesus, which according to legend was given to the Queen of Cebu by Magellan in 1521, and many locals will line up to pray here. The church has been bombed by wars many times, but the statue of the Holy Infant in the church is not damaged at all, so the locals call it a miracle, and worship of the Holy Infant has become one of the religious activities on the island. There is also a wishing pool in the church. I heard that it can cure all diseases. Many Catholics pray sincerely by the pool. A small museum inside the Museum Church that showcases the long traditions of Cebu City. Many ancient objects are on display, including century-old furniture, priests' robes, and various cloaks dedicated to the Holy Child. Religious objects such as statues and figurines and everyday objects from nearby monasteries are also displayed.
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TOP 5
Sumilon Island
Sumilon Island
4.4/5 · 138 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 300 review
Highlights:
Sumilon Island is an outlying island in the south of Cebu. There are not many tourists, but the price is very high. The island is not big, similar to a private island, and it takes about 1 hour to walk around the island. The water around the island is clear and the water quality is quite good. Whale sharks can be seen every morning. There are also coral reefs nearby, with deep diving and snorkeling environments. With round sandy beaches to the west and long sandy beaches to the east, you can enjoy sunbathing from the tropical island. In addition, there is a resort Bluewater Island Resort on the island, which is an ideal choice for vacation and leisure.
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* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Cebu 2 Days Itinerary