Cheapest Flights to Cebu
From the Most Popular Cities to Cebu
About Cebu
Cebu City, known as the "Queen City of the South," is the second largest city in the Philippines and serves as a major cultural, economic, and educational center in the Visayas region. With a population of nearly 1 million residents as of 2023, Cebu boasts a rich historical heritage, vibrant lifestyle, and a strong economic base, making it a key destination for both tourists and business travelers.
The city experiences a tropical climate, with hot, humid weather year-round. It has two distinct seasons: a wet season from June to December and a dry season from January to May. The best time to visit Cebu is during the dry season when the weather is more conducive for exploring the city's historic sites and beautiful nearby islands.
Cebu is served by the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located on Mactan Island just a short drive from the city center. It is the second busiest airport in the Philippines, providing both domestic and international flights. Airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and international carriers including Emirates and Qatar Airways offer direct flights from major cities, including routes from Saudi Arabian cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.
Cebuano cuisine is noted for its variety, with a particular emphasis on seafood, lechon (roasted pig), and a blend of Spanish-influenced dishes like paella. Street food, such as grilled meats and seafood, is also popular and provides a taste of the local flavor.
Cebu's attractions include the historic Magellan's Cross, believed to have been planted by explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, which houses a revered religious icon and hosts the annual Sinulog Festival, a vibrant celebration with street parades, dancing, and music.
For those interested in history and culture, Fort San Pedro offers a look into the city's colonial past, while the Casa Gorordo Museum showcases the lifestyle of Filipino families during the Spanish era. For relaxation and recreation, the beaches of Mactan Island offer crystal clear waters and white sandy shores, ideal for diving and snorkeling.
Outdoor activities in Cebu include whale shark watching in Oslob, canyoneering in the Kawasan Falls, and island hopping to nearby islands such as Bantayan and Camotes, known for their pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
For Saudi Arabian nationals traveling to Cebu, visas can be obtained upon arrival for short visits, or through the Philippines' e-visa system, which offers a convenient online application process. It's recommended to check the latest visa requirements and travel advisories before planning your trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Cebu.
Transportation to Cebu City Center from Airport
Mactan Cebu Intl. Airport
The easiest way to get to the city center from Mactan - Cebu International Airport is to take a taxi or rent a car. However, if you prefer to use public transport, you can go to the city center by transferring on three separate bus lines.
Taxi
You can reach the city center in half an hour by taking a taxi from the airport. You can bargain about the taxi fare.
Car Rental
By renting a car at the airport you can have a means of transport for your entire trip. You will have to cross Marcelo Fernan Bridge and head south on the Central Nautical Route with the car you rent. Under normal conditions, you can reach the city center in half an hour.
Bus
If you prefer to use public transportation, you can take bus number 23 at the bus stop in front of the Mactan Marina Mall shopping center near the airport. You must transfer to bus number 21A at Mandaue station. You will reach the city center if you get on the 13C bus after getting off at Talamban stop. Although bus is a very affordable means of transportation, you should remember that the total journey time is close to two hours.