Cebu City and Mactan Island Tour

Cebu's history, faith and island life in a day

Cebu is where the Philippines' recorded history began, and this city-and-island tour walks you through its most important landmarks before crossing to Mactan, the resort island just offshore. It is an easy, comfortable way to understand the place - from centuries-old churches and Spanish-era forts to the spot where Magellan met his end - with a local guide to join the dots between the sites.

Cebu City highlights

Magellan's Cross and Basilica

You visit Magellan's Cross, planted in 1521 to mark the first Christian baptism in the islands, and the adjacent Basilica del Santo Nino, home to the country's oldest religious icon. Nearby, Fort San Pedro - the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines - and the Heritage of Cebu Monument bring the colonial and revolutionary past to life.

Taoist Temple and viewpoints

Many itineraries climb to the colourful Cebu Taoist Temple in the hills above the city, with its dragon-flanked stairways and sweeping views over the rooftops to the sea - a peaceful, photogenic contrast to the busy streets below.

Crossing to Mactan

The tour then crosses the bridge to Mactan Island, where the Lapu-Lapu Shrine marks the 1521 battle in which the chieftain Lapu-Lapu defeated Magellan - a founding moment of Filipino resistance. Mactan is also known for its guitar workshops and beach resorts, and some tours include a stop to see the famous Cebuano guitars being made.

Good to know

This is a gentle, family-friendly tour with light walking between sites, suitable for all ages. As several stops are active places of worship, modest dress is appreciated. Bring a hat, sunscreen, water and small cash for entrance donations and souvenirs. With air-conditioned transport and a guide, it is a relaxed way to see the highlights of Cebu and Mactan without the logistics of getting around yourself.