Touring Cebu In Style: 6 Must-Visit Destinations

There’s something effortlessly magnetic about Cebu. From its rich cultural roots to its modern coastal charms, the island offers more than just sun and sea—it invites you to experience travel at its most vibrant and refined. Whether you’re drawn to lush highlands, artistic landmarks, or elevated dining with a view, Cebu has no shortage of worthwhile moments. It’s the kind of place where exploring feels just as indulgent as unwinding.

While many travelers rush through its highlights, there’s another way to take in Cebu—one that favors thoughtful choices, curated stops, and a touch of style. This guide will take you through destinations that let you experience the island’s beauty with a little more intention and a lot more flair.

NUSTAR Resort and Casino

A visit to NUSTAR Resort and Casino instantly elevates your trip. Perched along South Road Properties, this integrated development blends sleek design with full-scale indulgence. Within the complex, you’ll find world-class entertainment, high-end retail, fine dining, and two luxury hotels: the ultra-refined NUSTAR Hotel and the proudly homegrown 5-start hotel brand Fili. If you’re looking for a hotel in Cebu City that embodies exclusivity, then Fili is it, offering floor-to-ceiling sea views and bespoke service that redefine city luxury.

Even if you’re not checking in, NUSTAR is still worth the stop. You can sip cocktails at a waterfront lounge, try your luck at the largest casino in the region, or reserve a table at one of its upscale restaurants. This is Cebu living at its finest, perfect for travelers who want their city experience to feel polished, elevated, and distinctly memorable.

Temple of Leah

There’s no mistaking the drama of the Temple of Leah. With its grand columns, bronze statues, and sweeping mountain views, this hilltop landmark feels more like an ancient Roman monument than a Cebu attraction. Built as a symbol of undying love, it blends art, architecture, and sentiment in a way that’s both touching and visually striking. It’s the kind of place where every corner begs to be photographed and where even a simple walk becomes a moment of reflection.

Visiting in the late afternoon offers the best light and fewer crowds, allowing you to take in the full atmosphere. Whether you’re admiring the stonework or gazing out over the city below, the experience proves that elegance stands the test of time, even in the most unexpected places.

Sirao Flower Garden

Tucked in the mountains of Cebu City, Sirao Flower Garden offers a burst of color that feels straight out of a European countryside. Rows of celosia, sunflowers, and other seasonal blooms stretch across the hillside, creating a vibrant escape that feels both whimsical and stunningly composed. Add to that the windmill, hand sculptures, and Balinese-style photo spots, and you’ve got a destination made for the design-conscious traveler.

For the most enchanting experience, drop by early morning or just before sunset, when the light softens and the garden feels especially serene. It’s ideal to dress comfortably, but don’t be afraid to lean into the moment with a spark of sophistication. Touring Cebu in style means letting yourself enjoy places that celebrate beauty, and this flower-filled hilltop does exactly that.

TOPS + La Vie in the Sky

Approximately 600 meters above sea level, TOPS delivers sweeping views of the city skyline, the waters of Mactan, and even Bohol’s distant shores. Its circular stone structure, reminiscent of a fortress, is surrounded by benches where you can relax and take in the scenery.

Just a short walk away, La Vie in the Sky adds a touch of French-inspired luxury. With its artisanal pizzas, seafood platters, and a curated selection of wines and handcrafted cocktails, this hilltop bistro transforms a simple meal into an experience. Whether you’re sipping champagne on the terrace or unwinding under twinkling lights, the ambiance is as unforgettable as the view. Consider a late afternoon visit and stay a little longer for the city lights, where the highland breeze and glowing skyline create a setting you won’t soon forget.

Cebu Ocean Park

Cebu Ocean Park may seem like a family outing spot at first glance, but beyond the marine exhibits lies one of the island’s most unexpectedly elegant experiences. Its underwater dining space transforms a simple meal into something extraordinary, where stingrays, sharks, and tropical fish glide past towering glass panels to create a mesmerizing backdrop

As the only underwater dining experience in the Philippines, it delivers both spectacle and sophistication. The combination of soft lighting, curated menus, and a tranquil ambiance makes every bite feel immersive. From sipping wine in a dreamy blue glow to indulging in seafood with a view unlike any other, this is a chance to dine “under the sea” without ever leaving dry land.

Balamban Highlands

Cebu’s best nature escapes aren’t all related to the water. Head west to the Balamban Highlands and you’ll find a different kind of indulgence, one defined by misty mornings, open skies, and the quiet elegance of mountain scenery. The journey along the Transcentral Highway is part of the experience, offering lookout points and moments of stillness that stand in contrast to the energy of the city.

This is where nature slows the world down, inviting you to pause, breathe, and embrace the tranquility of the highlands. Settle into a hillside café, take a leisurely walk through flower-lined trails, or wrap up in a jacket as the temperature dips. It’s a graceful retreat and a perfect addition to a trip done in style.

Beyond luxury, exploring Cebu in style means seeking experiences that resonate, places that inspire, and moments that feel effortlessly refined. From mountain views to underwater dining, the island offers plenty of ways to travel with intention, comfort, and a touch of distinction. If you’re after a trip that feels as polished as it is personal, let these destinations guide your journey and make every stop one worth remembering.