Cebu City City Guide

Local dishes to try include Lechon, Sutukil, and Kinilaw. Many international restaurants are available. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Some food outlets and fast food chains are open 24/7 in busy areas.

Nightlife centers around IT Park and Mango Avenue. There are bars, pubs, clubs, and live music venues.

Strong coffee scene blending international chains and local specialty cafes.

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A 10% service charge is often included in restaurants. If not, 5-10% is typical. Taxi drivers expect small tips or rounded fares.

SIM cards are sold at Mactan Airport and malls from main providers Globe and Smart. Coverage is good in the city. ID or passport is required for activation. eSIMs are becoming common.

Cleanliness varies by area; tourist and business districts are cleaner than some local streets. Waste pickup is regular but recycling is limited.

Many pharmacies and minimarts open 24/7, plus some fast-food outlets. Emergency rooms at big hospitals are open all day. Night clinics are rarer.

Major supermarkets like Rustan's, SM, and Robinsons carry international and local products. Fresh produce and seafood are available at Carbon Market. Supermarkets usually open 9-10 AM to 9-10 PM and are open Sundays.

Cash is common, especially in markets and small shops. Cards are accepted in bigger supermarkets, malls, and restaurants. Mobile payments via GCash and PayMaya are growing.

ATMs are easy to find in malls, banks, and convenience stores. International withdrawal fees may apply, so check with your bank. Money changers are available in malls and tourist areas.

International schools like Cebu International School and Sacred Heart School teach primarily in English. Admission varies by school.

A growing community with nomad-friendly cafes and co-working spaces, though smaller than bigger Asian hubs.

Parks like Fuente Osmeña Circle and waterfront spaces at South Road Properties. Some shaded paths available.

Popular routes include Cebu Business Park and IT Park. South Road Properties offers long flat paths. Air quality can be poor in heavy traffic.

Multiple modern gym chains and hotel fitness centers available.

Tennis courts located in sports clubs and hotels; some require membership or booking.

Padel courts are starting to appear but still rare.

Yoga studios offer styles like Vinyasa and Hatha with English-speaking instructors and drop-in classes.

Training available in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Filipino Arnis/Eskrima. English instruction is common.

No skiing due to tropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are offered especially at Mactan resorts. Sailing and windsurfing also available at some clubs.

No surfing in Cebu City. Closest spots are on other islands like Siargao or Samar, requiring travel.

Great dive sites near Cebu, Mactan, Moalboal, and Malapascua. Good visibility and marine life. Many PADI dive centers and gear rentals available. Best in dry season from November to May.

Good private hospitals like Chong Hua and Perpetual Succour have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Mercury Drug and Watsons are common and often open late or 24/7. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.

Playgrounds in malls, kid-friendly cafes, and baby supplies are common. Attractions like Cebu Ocean Park and indoor play spaces are great for families.

Generally tolerant and with visible safe spaces, though legal protections are limited.

Pet policies vary; vet clinics and pet stores are common. Some malls and parks allow pets in designated areas.