“Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost.”
– Erol Ozan
Setting your sights on the province of Cebu as your solo trip destination?
Perhaps you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, historic landmarks, delicious local delicacies, and exhilarating adventures. You’ll be happy to know that Cebu offers all that and more!
Now, they say that if you want to make the most of your time in Cebu, go beyond the usual spots. One way to do that is to seek out uncharted trails! Much of Cebu is yet to be explored, after all.
Nothing compares to the joy of discovering hidden gems firsthand, and the autonomy that comes with exploring alone makes it even more rewarding.
Besides its breathtaking destinations and priceless experiences, the island of Cebu is also home to hospitable people.
Even if you’re traveling alone, you will meet a lot of beautiful souls. Locally, these types of people are called buotan. They are kind and willing to go above and beyond to ensure you get around safely. They ask nothing in return, just the assurance that you’re safe and sound.
These buotan people seem to inherently understand what it’s like to navigate a new place alone. This often translates to having more empathy for solo travelers.
It’s not just the locals who will enrich your journey. Solo travel itself offers huge psychological benefits.
Clinical psychologist Dr. Jenna Kirtley says it’s a rewarding way to see the world. Exploring alone helps you build confidence and discover new things about yourself. (2025)
However, let’s be realistic. Going on a solo journey, even in Cebu, can also be daunting. Solo traveling may lack the assurance of safety. Not to mention, navigating places can be difficult, especially when it’s your first time here.
That’s precisely where this guide comes in. Take this as your go-to resource when solo traveling. Make your experience not just memorable, but also safe and stress-free.
BOOK WELL-KNOWN ACCOMMODATIONS
When it comes to finding a place to stay, safety should be your priority.
The best hotels in Cebu are usually found in the major cities: Cebu City (the capital), Lapu-Lapu City, and Mandaue City. Aside from the prime city-center location, the hotels have excellent security features, giving you peace of mind throughout your stay.
(Photo by Muffin Creatives on Pexels)
Since you’re traveling solo, budget is likely a factor, so we’ve picked options that offer great value.
Here are your top choices.
1. Quest Hotel and Conference Center – Cebu
Located right across from Ayala Cebu Terminal, it offers amenities that are perfect for any traveler’s needs. Guests consistently give it positive reviews.
Many praise the nice atmosphere and excellent service. And the food? A definite favorite!
Address
Archbishop Reyes Ave., Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
Phone
(032) 230 5888
Price Range
Php 2,000 to Php 3,500
2. bai Hotel – Mandaue
Looking for stunning views? Check out bai Hotel in Mandaue. It boasts a 360-degree infinity pool and a view of the breathtaking harbor and city vistas. Plus, it’s near SM JMall and Parkmall.
Guests consistently rave about the excellent service. Many even highlight special treats for birthday celebrants!
Address
Ouano Avenue, corner C.D.Seno, Mandaue, 6014 Cebu
Phone
(032) 342 8888
Price Range
Php 3,000 to Php 6,000
3. Mactan Hostel – Lapu-Lapu
Looking for a budget-friendly hostel close to the airport? Mactan Hostel is the most affordable and nearest hostel to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA).
You’ll find it at Villa Rufina Subdivision II Street, Bag-ong Silingan, Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, right behind Franzon’s BBQ.
Guests love the amenities and fantastic location. It’s the top-rated hostel for its easy access to the MCIA.
Address
252+662, Mactan Airport Rd, Lapu-Lapu, Cebu
Phone
0949 432 9001
Price Range
Php 900 to Php 1,000
Of course, these aren’t your only options. There are still plenty of other budget-friendly lodging choices in well-known areas, like Elegant Circle Inn and Express Inn, both conveniently located near police stations.
Feel free to explore other hotel listings and don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations.
MASTER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION
Source: Martin Michlmayr, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Changed made: converted to WEBP
Much like in other provincial towns in the Philippines, Cebu has both private and public vehicles. There are public buses and vehicles for hire.
But the primary mode of public transport is the “jeepney,” locally known as jeep or multicab.
Jeepneys in Cebu use codes to show which routes they take. Here are some common route codes in the metropolitan Cebu area.
Cebu City
- 01C (Private – Robinsons Galleria)
- 03A/B (Mabolo – Carbon)
- 01K (Urgello – Parkmall)
- 04B (Campo – Carbon)
- 04C (Campo – Carbon)
- 04D (Plaza Housing – Magallanes)
- 04I (Plaza Housing – Carbon)
- 04L (Lahug – SM)
- 04M (Lahug – Ayala via JY Square)
- 04H (Plaza Housing – Carbon)
- 06B (Guadalupe – Carbon)
- 06C (Guadalupe – Carbon)
- 06F (Guadalupe – Colon via Jones)
- 07B (Banawa – Carbon)
- 08G (Alumnos – Colon)
- 09F (Basak Pardo – Zulueta)
- 09C (Basak Pardo – Sanciangko)
- 09G (Basak Pardo – Sto. Niño)
- 10H (Bulacao – SM via P. Del Rosario)
- 10M (Bulacao – SM via Colon)
- 10F (Bulacao – P. Del Rosario)
- 10E (Bulacao – Cathedral via P. Del Rosario)
- 10G (Bulacao – Sto. Niño)
- 11A (Inayawan – Colon)
- 12D (Labangon Katipunan – Colon)
- 12G (Labangon Katipunan – SM)
- 12l (Labangon Tres de Abril – SM)
- 12L (Labangon – Ayala)
- 13C (Talamban – Colon)
- 13B (Talamban – Carbon via Ramos)
- 13H (Pit-os – Mandaue Public Market)
- 14D (Ayala – Colon via Ramos)
- 15 (Colon – Capitol Site – Opra)
- 17B (Apas – Carbon)
- 17C (Apas – Carbon via Mango and Robinsons Fuente)
- 17D (Apas- Carbon via Taboan)
- 41D/B (Tabunok – Taboan)
- 42D, B/C (Talisay – Taboan)
- 62B (Pit-os – Carbon)
Mandaue City
- 20A/B (Mandaue – Ayala)
- 21A/D (Mandaue – Cathedral via SM City)
- 22A (Mandaue Ouano – Cathedral)
- 22I (Gaisano C-Mall – Mandaue Public Market)
Lapu-Lapu City
- 23 (Hi-way Mandaue via Parkmall – Punta Engaño)
- 23D (Hi-way Mandaue via Parkmall – Opon)
Liloan
- 25 (Liloan – SM City)
Consolacion
- 24A (Consolacion – SM City via Parkmall)
- 24I (Consolacion – Mandaue Pit-os – Talamban)
- 24F (Consolacion – C-Mall via Hi-Way Mandaue)
Compostela
- 26 (Compostela – SM Hypermarket)
Danao
- 27 (Danao – SM Hypermarket)
Carmen
- 28 (Carmen – North Bus Terminal)
San Fernando
- 45 (Talisay City – San Fernando)
Carcar City
- 44/46 (Gaisano Tabunok – Carcar City)
Important Note: Some routes may have slight variations in their path or designated stops, even if the origin and destination remain the same. Make sure to double-check the route signboard found in front of the jeepney before boarding. You can also ask the driver.
Besides being a cheaper alternative, jeepneys are mostly available 24/7, unlike other modes of public transport. When taking a jeepney ride late at night, exercise caution. Be smart when taking public transport.
LEARN THE CULTURE
Although Cebu is known for its warm and welcoming people, it will still benefit you to learn about local customs. Cultural awareness helps you blend in and show respect.
When you blend in with the locals, you’re less likely to get picked on. It’s a smart way to avoid conflict.
So, what are some common Cebuano traditions, and how can you practice them?
- Dressing modestly. Especially when you’re visiting churches or religious sites, wear decent clothing. Cover your shoulders and knees. It’s the simplest way to show respect for local beliefs.
- Greeting politely. Locals appreciate courtesy. Make it a habit to say, “Salamat” (thank you), “Maayong adlaw” (good day), and “Maayong gabii” (good evening).
Learn common Cebuano phrases.
- Practicing “kaikog.” This is the Cebuano sense of social propriety. It’s about being sensitive to others.
This includes not being noisy or rowdy when passing by a neighborhood late at night, politely declining anything offered for free the first time, or the typical gentlemanly behavior.
- Performing “amin.” This gesture of respect is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture. You take an elder’s hand (usually their right hand) and gently touch it to your forehead.
You might say, “Amin ko, Tay” for an elderly man or “Amin ko, Nay” for an elderly woman. Although this is observed more among peers or people you’re already close to or are familiar with.
***
(Photo by Daniel Lazarov on Pexels)
Did you know that it’s quite common to see many foreigners traveling alone in Cebu? Aside from the affordable cost of living, enticing attractions, and hospitable people, the island is just full of surprises.
During the first quarter of 2025, it was announced that there were over 5.1 million tourists in 2024, 1.4 million of which were foreigners, while the remaining 3.2 million were Filipinos from other parts of the country.
It promises a truly incredible experience, especially if you arrive prepared.
May this guide empower you to take on your journey filled with confidence and amazing memories.
That being said, what are you most excited to do in Cebu?