Cebu City famous historical tour
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Cebu City famous historical tour

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8h
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About this experience

A journey of a lifetime of learning about history, culture, food & it’s people. It a fun & memorable journey with us.

Available options

Cebu City famous historical tour

Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Located in the original Plaza parian. It showcases the significant and symbolic events in the history of Cebu from the time of Rajah Humabon to the recent beatification of Cebuano martyr Pedro calungsod. The monumental sculptural tableau is the work of national artist Edgardo Castrillo. The construction begun in 1997 & was inaugurated on dec 8, 2000. General Leon Kilat of Bacong negros oriental spearheaded the revolution against Spanish colonialism. It also depicts the 3 churches in cebu during the Spanish times, the Church of St. John the Baptist in Parian, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Basilica del Sto nino. It shows the grand old man of Cebu 4th president of the Philippines Sergio Osmena Sr.

2
Stop 2

A Spanish military stronghold built on May 18, 1565. The fort began as a single triangular bastion when it was first built with logs & muds in 1565 with Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez De Legazpi. The first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. The fort’s name was taken from Legazpi’s flagship San Pedro in which he sailed the Pacific Ocean in 1565. It is the oldest and the smallest fort in the Philippines which was built primarily to protect the Spanish settlers from the pirates in the area. It has 3 bastions names La Concepcion, Ignacio De Loyola, San Miguel. It has a total area of 2025 square meters with walls that are 20 feet high & 8 feet thick and towers that rise 30 feet from the ground.

3
Stop 3

A visit to one of the oldest church in the Philippines. An experience of different kind of faith to little image of Jesus.

4
Stop 4

When Magellan & his men landed in Cebu, he was befriended by it’s leader Rajah Humabon, his wife and hundreds of his native warriors agreed to accept Christianity and were consequently baptized by father Pedro Valderama. He then planted a cross to signify the important event about the propagation of the Roman catholic faith. It is a famous historical landmark. The original cross was encased in another wooden cross for protection, as people started chipping it away in the belief that it had miraculous healing powers. This prompted the government officials to encase it in Tindalo wood secured it inside a small kiosk, with a tile roof. The Magellan’s cross displayed is said to be a replica of the original cross which is housed in an octagonal shaped structure. It has wide windows that let light shine through. The ceiling has a narrative painting of the fateful day of Magellan, along with Spanish soldiers.

5

It is a concrete reminder of a well established Chinese community in the city who have contributed much to the industrialization of Cebu. It was built in 1964, a classic example of Chinese architecture which houses the teaching of Lao-Tze, a 600 BC Chinese philosopher “ if u give a man a fish, he eats only once, but if you teach him to fish, he eats all his life”

6
Stop 6

A flower garden with great views and local flowers. Get close with nature.

7
Stop 7

Temple of Leah, dubbed as “Cebu’s Taj Mahal,” is a grand gesture of love from a husband to his late wife.
But unlike the Taj Mahal, which is a mausoleum, Temple of Leah is a shrine holding the memory and treasures of Leah Albino-Adarna, the late wife of Teodorico Soriano Adarna. The two are grandparents of actress Ellen Adarna.
Some say the temple, which is now one of Cebu’s most visited new attractions, is gaudy and a bit too much. It is a must-see, however, to those who are curious how an act of love worth P80 million (reportedly) looks like.

8
Stop 8

TOPS is a perfect venue for picnics and evening parties. It is situated in the cool hills of Busay. It is an excellent sightseeing spot which offers a breathtaking view of Metro cebu & the islands of Mactan & Olango. It is a circular structure with 2000 feet or 610 meters high. A panoramic view of the city especially at night with all the lights below is a spectacular experience, as you feel the cool breeze, crsp air from mango orchards, flower gardens & vegetable farms. Sunset is the best time to visit the viewing deck before darkness creeps in. Tops at night is warm to the eyes as temperature up & gets colder. As we take the road that winds up to the mountainside, you can observed many little barangays that seem cling to the side of the mountains. There are several excellent restaurants, lush green mountains, mangoorchard made even more scenic with it’s quite rural setting.

9

Today, Lapu-Lapu is honored as the 1st Philippine national Hero who resist foreign rule. He is remembered by some commemorations, a monument on the island of Mactan, a city bearing his name and a statue at the Cebu Provincial Capitol. Magellan is likewise given the honor of bringing the first vestiges of Spanish Colonization. Battle of Mactan is a an event reenacting the historic battle between Magellan-leader of Spanish colonizers and the resisting natives led by Rajah Lapu-Lapu every year. Actor Politician Lito lapid made a film called “Lapu-Lapu” that tells the story of the Visayan warrior, and a novelty singer Yoyoy Villame of Calape Bohol, wrote a folk song entitled “ Magellan” that tells the story of the Battle of Mactan.

What's not included

Dinner
Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Tagbilaran City

Tagbilaran City is the capital of Bohol, a province in the Philippines known for its natural beauty and rich history. It serves as the gateway to the famous Chocolate Hills and the unique tarsier species, making it a perfect blend of urban convenience and tropical adventure.

Top Attractions

Blood Compact Shrine

This shrine commemorates the historic Blood Compact between Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Bohol's chieftains. It offers a glimpse into the early interactions between the Spanish and native Filipinos.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Bohol Wisdom Arts and Culture Café

This café offers a unique blend of local art, culture, and cuisine. It's a great place to experience Boholano hospitality and creativity.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate (PHP 200-500 per person)

Tagbilaran City Plaza

This central plaza is a hub of local activity and a great place to relax and people-watch. It's surrounded by historic buildings and offers a glimpse into the city's past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Bohol Tropical Hideaway

This eco-resort offers a peaceful retreat with lush gardens, a river, and a variety of wildlife. It's perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape.

Nature Half-day or full-day Moderate to Expensive (PHP 500-1,500 per person)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pechay with Oysters

A dish made with pechay (Chinese cabbage) and fresh oysters, cooked in a savory sauce. It's a popular Boholano dish that showcases the region's love for seafood.

Main Course Contains seafood

Ginabot

A traditional Boholano dish made with taro leaves, coconut milk, and sometimes shrimp or pork. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's unique to the region.

Main Course Can be vegetarian if made without meat

Sarsina

A sweet and chewy dessert made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar. It's a popular treat in Bohol and is often enjoyed with coffee or tea.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Ziplining Diving and snorkeling Island hopping Beach bumming Spa and wellness River cruises Café hopping

Best Time to Visit

December to May

This is the dry season, offering sunny and warm weather perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

25-32°C 77-90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Filipino, English
  • Widely spoken: Cebuano, Boholano
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Philippine Peso (PHP)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tagbilaran is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it's important to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air
  • Tagbilaran Airport • 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from city center
By bus

Tagbilaran Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Jeepneys are the most common and affordable mode of public transport in Tagbilaran. They follow fixed routes and are easy to spot.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Poblacion Dagohoy Bilaran

Day trips

Chocolate Hills
55 km (34 miles) from Tagbilaran • Full day

The Chocolate Hills are a famous geological formation consisting of over 1,200 symmetrical hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling chocolate mounds. They are a must-see attraction in Bohol.

Loboc River
30 km (19 miles) from Tagbilaran • Half day or full day

The Loboc River is a scenic river that offers a variety of activities, including river cruises, zip-lining, and visiting the famous Loboc Children's Choir.

Panglao Island
20 km (12 miles) from Tagbilaran • Full day

Panglao Island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and excellent diving spots. It's a popular destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Bohol.

Festivals

Sandugo Festival • July Panaad sa Bohol • June

Pro tips

  • Visit the Blood Compact Shrine early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Try the local coffee at Bohol Wisdom Arts and Culture Café for a unique and authentic experience.
  • Book a guided tour for the Chocolate Hills to learn more about their history and significance.
  • Visit the Carbon Market for fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and flavors.
  • Take a river cruise on the Loboc River for a relaxing and scenic experience. The cruise includes a buffet lunch with local dishes.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-100
1
Childs
Age 5-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
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