How Far is Cebu City From Manila?

Cebu City is the oldest city in the Philippines and is located on the island of Cebu and is a highly visited tourist destination as it is known for its beautiful beaches, mountain views, and interesting cultural attractions. Manila is the capital city of the Philippines and located on the main island of Luzon, directly north of Cebu.

The distance between Cebu City and Manila is approximately 623 kilometers (387 miles). It can take up 10 to 12 hours to travel by car from Cebu City to Manila, and up to 13 to 15 hours by bus. Generally, commercial flights from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) usually take just over one hour.

When considering how to get to one city from another in the Philippines, the preferred mode of transport is almost always either flight or boat. There are currently no direct transfers or flights between Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Visiting Manila from Cebu is best done by traveling with Philippine Airlines, as it does offer connecting flights from CEB-MNL through Mactan International Airport Terminal 2.

If you’re looking for an economical way to travel from Cebu City to Manila, ferry services from Cebu to nearby coastal cities can offer you a much lower rate and shortened time than usual. According to Ohayami Trans, there is a regular overnight ferry service between Cebu, Toledo City, and Tagbilaran City to Pasay City in Metro Manila where Ninoy Aquino International Airport is located. The trip takes roughly 12 to 14 hours and one-way fares usually start at PHP 550, while round trip tickets can cost around PHP 1000.

Overall, the quickest way to get from Cebu City to Manila is by flying which can take around 1 hour, although flyers should be mindful that there are no direct flights. While the bus trip could take up to 15 hours of travel, it remains the cheapest way to get from one destination to another but may not be the most comfortable of travels due to the length of time being spent on the road. Taking a ferry service remains another top recommended option when traveling from one location to another in the Philippines.

An Insider’s Guide to Cebu City: A Vibrant Destination in the Philippines

Cebu City is a bustling metropolis and the oldest city in the Philippines. As a former Spanish colony, it is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition, making it a must-visit destination in the country. Whether you are a first-time or seasoned traveler, this insider’s guide will show you the best of Cebu City.

Local attractions

Cebu City is home to numerous attractions that cater to different tastes and interests. Here are some of the top attractions to see and do in the city:

– Magellan’s Cross: This iconic landmark is located in the heart of Cebu City and is believed to house the cross planted by Ferdinand Magellan upon his arrival in the Philippines in 1521.

– Basilica del Santo Niño: A few steps away from Magellan’s Cross is the Basilica del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the country which houses the holy image of Santo Niño.

– Fort San Pedro: This military defense structure is one of the oldest and smallest forts built by the Spaniards in the Philippines and has served as a fortress, hospital, and prison.

– Taoist Temple: Also located in Cebu City, visitors can explore the intricate details and craftsmanship of this temple, which was built in 1972 by the Chinese community living in the region.

Dining spots

Cebu City is a foodie’s paradise, with numerous dining options that cater to different budgets and preferences. From street food to upscale restaurants, here are some of the best places to eat in Cebu City:

– Larsian: A must-visit for any foodie, Larsian is a popular open-air food market where you can sample various grilled meats and seafood at reasonable prices.

– Rico’s Lechon: Lechon is a roasted pig dish that is popular in the Philippines, and this restaurant has been dubbed as the best lechon restaurant in Cebu City.

– Cafe Laguna: This local favorite is a great place to try traditional Filipino dishes such as adobo, kare-kare, and sinigang.

– Zubuchon: Another lechon restaurant that has gained quite a following in recent years, Zubuchon serves up some of the tastiest lechon dishes in the city.

Cultural experiences

Cebu City is also known for its rich culture and traditions, with several festivals and events held throughout the year. Here are some cultural experiences that you should not miss when visiting Cebu City:

– Sinulog Festival: Held every third Sunday of January, the Sinulog Festival is a grand celebration in honor of the Santo Niño, with parades, dances, and processions throughout the city.

– Cebuano cuisine cooking classes: Learn how to cook traditional Filipino dishes with a Cebuano twist by attending cooking classes offered by some local restaurants.

– Local handicrafts: You can also immerse yourself in Cebuano culture by visiting local markets and shops that sell handmade crafts, such as intricately woven baskets and mats.

Local history

Cebu City is steeped in history, having played a crucial role in the development of the Philippines as a nation. Here are some historical sites to visit in the city:

– Museo Sugbo: This museum used to be a prison during the Spanish colonial period and now houses various exhibits and artifacts related to Cebuano history.

– Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House: One of the oldest houses in the city, this ancestral house was built in the late 17th century and showcases furniture, artwork, and antiques from the Spanish colonial period.

– Casa Gorordo Museum: This museum is housed inside a 19th-century house that belonged to the Spanish colonial elite and showcases how the wealthy Filipinos lived during that time.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

If you have more time to explore Cebu City, here are some suggestions for off-the-beaten-path attractions:

– Sirao Flower Farm: Located in the highlands of Cebu, this flower farm is a popular spot for taking Instagram-worthy photos of its bright celosia flowers.

– Taboan Public Market: Famous for its dried fish, this public market also sells other local delicacies such as dried mangoes, peanuts, and shrimp paste.

– Temple of Leah: Located atop a hill in Cebu City, this temple is a grand gesture of love by a businessman to his late wife, with its Greco-Roman-inspired architecture and sculptures.

Conclusion

With its rich culture, history, and traditions, Cebu City is a vibrant destination that should not be missed by any traveler visiting the Philippines. By following this insider’s guide and visiting the recommended attractions, dining spots, and cultural experiences, you can make the most out of your trip to the Queen City of the South.