Explore Cebu Beyond Beaches

Arrive in Cebu and meet your local representative for your transfer to the hotel in Cebu City. The rest of the day is free to rest or explore at your own pace. Staying in the city places you close to Cebu’s historic core, where Spanish-era landmarks, busy neighbourhoods, and local eateries give a first taste of what the region has to offer. It's a good chance to get your bearings and ease into the trip.

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Start the day at the Alegre Guitar Factory, where you’ll see Cebu’s proud tradition of handmade guitars crafted using local woods and exported worldwide. Then head to the Mactan Shrine, where the legendary Battle of Mactan took place, and Magellan was defeated by Lapulapu. Back in Cebu City, visit Fort San Pedro, the oldest Spanish fortress in the country, and stop by the iconic Magellan’s Cross, marking the arrival of Christianity. The Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño, home to the revered image of the Child Jesus, reveals Cebu’s deep-rooted Catholic faith. Continue to the Cebu Heritage Monument, a striking sculpture that tells the island’s layered past. Step inside Yap-San Diego House and Casa Gorordo to see how local elites lived during the Spanish era. End with a visit to the colourful Taoist Temple, set on a hillside with sweeping city views. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to your hotel. (B,L)

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Today offers a deeper look into Cebu’s cultural identity, with a focus on its proud martial heritage. Begin in Mandaue City at a local knife maker’s workshop, known for crafting high-quality, handmade training weapons used in Filipino martial arts. Watch how each blade is forged, shaped, and sharpened by skilled artisans. Continue to Cebu City to visit the headquarters of Doce Pares, one of the most respected Filipino Martial Arts systems. Learn about its origins and gain insight into traditional techniques using sticks and bare hands, methods that have been passed down for generations. The academy has trained countless practitioners locally and abroad, preserving this uniquely Filipino discipline. Before returning to the hotel, stop at the Cebu Heritage Monument, a powerful reminder of the city’s layered and often hard-fought history. (B,L)

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Travel south to Argao, a quiet coastal town known for its colonial charm and local delicacies. After checking in, begin your exploration with a visit to the Simala Shrine in nearby Sibonga. This castle-like monastery is one of Cebu’s most visited pilgrimage sites, home to the revered image of Our Lady of Lindogon, believed by many to be miraculous. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at an ancestral house turned café, where vintage interiors and local recipes offer a glimpse into Sibonga’s heritage.

Back in Argao, visit a local tablea maker and watch how cacao is processed into rich chocolate discs used for traditional hot drinks. Then stop by a home-based bakery to see how torta, a soft, buttery sponge cake, is made. Enjoy the pairing of torta and tablea, a staple Cebuano afternoon snack. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful setting of Argao. (B,L)

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After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Osmeña Peak, the highest point in Cebu. The hike is manageable for beginners and rewards you with panoramic views of rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and the surrounding islands. Early morning visits offer a chance to catch a breathtaking sunrise. After descending, return to Argao for lunch and some rest.

In the afternoon, explore Argao’s rich history, including its old watchtower built to guard against pirate attacks and the town’s charming church known for its five intricately designed altars. Learn about the local stories of epidemics and resilience as you stroll through the historic town centre. Finish the day at a Hablon weaving workshop, where you’ll meet artisans preserving this indigenous Cebuano craft. Try weaving yourself and see the beautiful textiles created by this age-old tradition before returning to the hotel. (B,L)

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After breakfast, travel to Moalboal and check in to your hotel. Begin the day with a visit to Mantayupan Falls in nearby Barili. At 98 metres, it is Cebu’s tallest waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a refreshing natural escape.

Afterwards, head to Moalboal, a small coastal town known for its spectacular marine life. Prepare to snorkel or dive with millions of sardines in one of the world’s most famous sardine runs. The vibrant house reef is also home to a variety of reef fish, including sweetlips, tangs, gobies, and lionfish, making it accessible for non-divers as well. After exploring the underwater world, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel to relax. (B,L)

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Experience an adrenaline-filled day with canyoneering along the Canlaob River, ending at the stunning Kawasan Falls. This adventure takes you through natural pools, narrow gorges, and gentle waterfalls, showcasing Cebu’s rugged landscape. Kawasan Falls is famous for its three tiers of clear turquoise water, surrounded by lush forest. The cool, fresh water offers a perfect reward after your trek. It’s a unique chance to connect with nature’s beauty while enjoying an active day outdoors. Whether jumping into natural pools or floating along the river, the scenery here is unforgettable and a highlight of any visit to Cebu’s south. Relax in the refreshing water and take in the peaceful atmosphere before returning to your hotel. (B,L)

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After breakfast, travel by land to Mactan and check in at Shangri-La Mactan. The drive takes around three to three and a half hours. The rest of the day is free to relax. Set on a quiet stretch of coastline, the resort offers spacious grounds, a private beach, and comfortable spaces to unwind. It’s a good place to slow down after the activity of the past days (B)

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Spend the day however you wish, with a wide range of activities available throughout the resort. For those looking to stay active, the gym is well equipped, and there are regular games like futsal, water basketball, and even archery. You can also explore the Eco Trail, join a Dragon Boat session, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Families might prefer the main pool with waterslides, or the dedicated Adventure Zone and E-Zone for younger guests. When it’s time to unwind, grab a bite or cocktail by the beach at Breeze or Buko Bar and take in the sea views at your own pace. (B)

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Take the day to slow down and enjoy the resort’s more indulgent offerings. Chi, The Spa offers a range of treatments using local ingredients, with private villas set in a quiet garden area. Afterwards, unwind in the jacuzzi or take a dip in the ocean-view pool. If you feel like being on the water, there’s parasailing, jetskiing, banana boating, and access to more than 20 nearby dive sites, including the resort’s marine sanctuary.

In the evening, choose from several dining options: enjoy a buffet at Tides, Thai flavours at Siam, or seafood by the sea at Cowrie Cove. Private beachside dining is also available if you'd like something more intimate.

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Enjoy the morning at leisure before your scheduled transfer to Mactan Airport. You might wish to take a final walk along the beach, enjoy a quiet coffee with a sea view, or simply relax in the resort’s open spaces. Then, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)