[2025 Cebu Attraction] Travel Guide for Magellan's Cross (Updated Jan)

Explore Cebu, a dynamic island destination in the Philippines known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Visit the historic Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño to learn about the city’s Spanish heritage, then unwind on the white sands of Mactan Island or the pristine shores of Bantayan and Malapascua. Adventure seekers can swim with whale sharks in Oslob or explore the breathtaking Kawasan Falls. Savor Cebu’s culinary specialties, like lechon (roast pig), and immerse yourself in the lively Sinulog Festival if you visit in January. This guide reveals the best of Cebu’s heritage, natural beauty, and warm Filipino hospitality. #philippinestrip

On 2022 i was in cebu job less and i was walking around the city and loving it, then i randomly search how to become a tour guide saw few websites to post the tours and i learn how it will work, i also learn the histories of the city and some tourist destinations to visits and I met few good people to collaborate with. And now doing it again in Macau on my free time, This is what exactly happiness means to me. Not that easy that I am working here and at the same time I have to do tours on my free time you have to sacrifice and manage a lot of your time. It's a matter of learning and putting a portion of your ❤️ on it. Let me share you this Cebu City Tours Itinerary by yours truly: ✅Fort San Pedro In the early 17th century a stone fort was built to repel Muslim raiders. Today's structure dates from 1738 and is the oldest triangular bastion fort in the country. It served as the nucleus of the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. ✅Magellan's Cross When Magellan landed in the Philippines, he was able to convert a local chieftain named Rajah Humabon as well as his subjects on the island of Cebu to Christianism. He planted the cross to signify the first time in history that Roman Catholicism and Europeans were able to set foot in the Philippines. ✅Basilica del Sto Niño Basilica Minore Del Sto. Nino is the oldest Roman Catholic church established in the Philippines. It was built on the same spot where the image of the Sto. Nino de Cebu, a statue depicting the Child Jesus, was found in 1565 by Spanish explorers led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. ✅Mactan Shrine Mactan is the improbable site of one of the defining moments in the Philippines' history. It was here on 27 April 1521 that Ferdinand Magellan was fatally wounded at the hands of Chief Lapu-Lapu. The event is commemorated at the Mactan Shrine on a stone plinth bearing the date that Magellan was felled. #historicallandmarks #cebu #philippines #travelwithmai #getlostwithmai

Cebu's architecture is a captivating blend of historical and contemporary styles, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and modern growth. The iconic Magellan's Cross and Basilica Minore del Santo Niño showcase Spanish colonial influences with their intricate designs and historical significance. In contrast, modern skyscrapers like the Cebu IT Park symbolize the city's rapid urbanization. Visitors can also admire ancestral houses, such as Casa Gorordo, which offer glimpses into Cebu's past. The mix of old and new, with traditional structures standing alongside contemporary buildings, makes Cebu a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts #philippines #architecture #instatravel

The Magellan’s Cross or Shrine is said to be the location where the Portuguese Ferdinand Magellan erected a cross to signify the propagation of the Roman Catholic faith in the Philippines and Asia. For the locals, the Cross or the Shrine has miraculous powers that could heal them even from the diseases which are considered as incurable by medical doctors. #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #mytripvlog #celebratewithtrip #passionpassport

One of the famous site in Cebu City is the Magellan's Cross ✝️. Magellan's Cross Pavilion is located on Plaza Sugbo beside the Basilica del ⛪. A Christian cross that was planted by explorers of the Spanish expedition of the first circumnavigation of the world, led by Ferdinand Magellan, upon arriving in Cebu in the Philippines on April 21, 1521. the pavilion is a declared National 🪙 of the Philippines. When Magellan and his crews landed on Cebu island, a native chief, Rajah Humabon, met and befriended him. Rajah Humabon, his wife, and hundreds of his native warriors agreed to accept Christianity and were consequently baptized. Really important for the Philippines History and must have to see if you're in Cebu City.🇵🇭 #urbanexplorer #awesomepic #summervacation #passionpassport #philippines #cebu #travel

#Southeast Asia travel #Cebu #Cebu city tour #Magellan's Cross The first place recommended to understand Cebu is Magellan's Cross! He was a Portuguese who led the Spanish fleet and left to get spices, and he left a great record in the history of the Philippines and Cebu! Among them, this is the commemorative cross made to commemorate the first evangelical! Did he know that many people would come here in the future? It may be small in size, but it is by no means small in terms of its historical position💕

It was quite a day! 🌻 Sirao Garden ⚔️ Heritage of Cebu Monument ✝️ Magellan's Cross 🌹 10,000 roses Cordova I'm sure there's so much more in Cebu that meets the eyes! #cebuphilippines#gooutside

Cebu, located in the center of the Visayas, consists of 167 islands. It is the second avenue connecting the Philippines to the world. I recommend visiting Magellan's Cross, Santiago de Cuba and Carbon Market. From these local landmarks, you can get a taste of some unique Southeast Asian lifestyles.

Would you ever believe that the original cross from 1521 is still encased inside the wooden cross? That’s what experts says. Some people says it’s only a replica others says it’s destroyed. The cross is located in Magellan’s Cross besides Basilica Menor del Santo Niño de Cebu. Cebu’s famous history about Magellan and Lapu-Lapu as Lapu-Lapu is one of Philippines greatest heroes for his bravery to resist Spanish colonization. #urbanexplorer #cebu #mactan #philippines #china #explorewithtony #naturelover #adventure #life #photographersdayoff #leaveyourmark

Magellan planted a cross to signify this important event about the propagation of the Roman Catholic faith in what is now Cebu, in central Philippines. The original cross is reputedly encased in another wooden cross for protection, as people started chipping it away in the belief that it had miraculous healing powers. #scenicspotguide#unforgettableexperiences#nyedestinations#instagramworthydestinations#awesomepic#wintergetaway#tripinspired#happynewyear

Underwhelming. It’s just good to know the approximate place where the conquerors laid the cross. You don’t actually see the actual cross, but a note that describes the cross entombed somewhere inside the wooden cross. Wood inside wood causes more decay imho. #givethanks #givethanks

The Magellan's Cross is just located outside of Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. During the month of December, it is expected that further decorations are found in preparation for the Sinulog Festival on January the next year. The original cross has already been encased inside because, according to the locals, it was believed that the cross can make miracles. Thus, many people carved a small portion of the cross. #givethanks #cebuano #religiousculture

We mainly came to Cebu to see whale sharks and sardine run, and stayed in the city for about half a day. Here is my itinerary. Itinerary: Airport ➡️ Lapu-Lapu Monument and Magellan's Marker ➡️ Magellan's Cross ➡️ Basilica del Santo Niño ➡️ Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral 1️⃣ Lapu-Lapu Monument and Magellan's Marker Navigation🧭Lapulapu Monument Free! Super niche! I searched online and found almost no complete guide, only a few simple shares, and no location, so I searched on the map and finally found it. It is located on Mactan Island, and since the airport is also on Mactan Island, it is recommended to take a Grab directly here after getting off the plane, which costs about 38💰, and then take a taxi from here to Magellan's Cross, which costs about 70💰. Magellan was a great man. His fleet completed a circumnavigation of the globe, proving that the earth is round. Note that it was his fleet, because Magellan himself died in a conflict with the locals on Mactan Island and never returned to Spain, and the one who fought against Magellan's fleet was the local tribal chief LapuLapu. During the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, the government built the Magellan's Marker here, and after the Philippines became independent, they erected the LapuLapu statue next to the Magellan's Marker (I don't know if it was to disgust the 🇪🇸 government). Magellan was great, but in the hearts of Filipinos, LapuLapu, who defended the territory and bravely fought against the colonizers, is the real hero. 2️⃣ Magellan's Cross Navigation🧭magellen’s cross Closes at 18:00! Free! It is the size of a pavilion, and when it is open, you can take a close-up photo with Magellan's Cross. After it is closed, because it is an iron fence, you can also put your phone in to take pictures. The lights are on inside, but you can't take a close-up photo. To the south and north of Magellan's Cross are the City Hall and Basilica del Santo Niño, respectively. 3️⃣ Basilica del Santo Niño It is right next to Magellan's Cross, with several guards guarding the gate. Walk through the enter passage, and the Basilica del Santo Niño is on the left. Open until after 8pm, open at 8pm, closed at 9pm. Free! I came here at 5pm and caught a mass, which was very solemn. No photos are allowed in the main hall, but there is a large area outside the main hall, which is also very photogenic. 4️⃣ Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral Free! Opening hours: 9:00–15:30 This church is bigger and more spectacular than the Basilica del Santo Niño, and it is very close to the Basilica del Santo Niño, so you can visit them together. Overall, you can visit almost all of them in about 4 hours.

My visit to the Sto. Niño Catheral Cebu city and taste the Famous Siomai sa Tiza😋

If you adore history and want to feel the energy and excitement of a fabulous landmark, the Magellan’s Cross is the perfect stop in Cebu, Philippines.

Traveling to the Philippines with kids? Check out this 6-day itinerary! Play with dolphins, snorkel with sardines, visit the Chocolate Hills, and look for cute tarsiers! -------------------- The Philippines, an archipelago in Southeast Asia, is known as the Pearl of the Western Pacific. 🌊 With its many historical sites and cultural attractions 🏰, beautiful beaches, and delicious food 🏖️🍛, it's a traveler's paradise! -------------------- 📅 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Cebu and start your trip to the Philippines! Enjoy a convenient private transfer to your hotel. Day 2: Depart from Cebu Pier and take a ferry to explore the beautiful Bohol Island. Day 3: Marvel at the unique landscape of the Chocolate Hills, visit the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary, cruise along the Loboc River, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Simply Butterflies Conservation Center. Day 4: Watch dolphins in the morning on Bohol Island, and explore the underwater world of Balicasag Island. Day 5: Experience the historical charm of the Basilica del Santo Niño, and take a photo with the Magellan's Cross. Day 6: End your wonderful trip and return to Shanghai from Cebu. See you next time! -------------------- Must-visit attractions: 1. 🏞️ Chocolate Hills: A must-see natural wonder on Bohol Island! Take your kids on a hike and experience the charm of this unique landscape. 2. 🏝️ Balicasag Island: A great place for family diving! See underwater cliffs, black coral reefs, and colorful tropical fish. 3. 🛶 Loboc River: Take a boat tour of the tropical scenery, watch indigenous village performances, and get close to nature and animals. A great choice for family fun! 4. 🐒 Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary: Want to see cute tarsiers up close? This is the place to be! You can also learn about other rare animals. 5. 🐬 Dolphin Watching on Bohol Island: Get up close and personal with wild dolphins, explore the mysteries of the underwater world, and enjoy an unforgettable family experience! -------------------- Travel essentials: 🎒 Philippines travel checklist 📞 Get a SIM card. Globe and Smart are both good options with wide coverage and affordable plans, making it easy to stay connected. 🔌 Don't forget a plug adapter. The Philippines uses 220V power and two-prong outlets, so you'll need an adapter for three-prong plugs. 📸 Bring all your documents, including your passport, visa, ID card, flight tickets, and hotel booking confirmation, for a smooth entry and exit. 👕 Dress for the season. The weather in the Philippines is pleasant in November, so short sleeves and shorts are fine. Don't forget a sun shirt and hat. -------------------- Like and save this post for easy access to all the travel tips you need for the Philippines! 🌴✨ There's so much more to explore! 🌊🌞

#familytravel Getting There - Magellan cross Attractions - cross and churches Hotels - saekyung hotel Food & Restaurants - local restaurants Shopping - sm cebu

#philippinestrip Visiting Magellan’s Cross in Cebu City is like stepping back in time to a pivotal moment in Philippine history. This iconic landmark, planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, symbolizes the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. The cross is housed in a small chapel next to the Basilica del Santo Niño, making it a convenient stop for history enthusiasts exploring the area. While the site itself is modest, the historical significance and the beautifully painted ceiling depicting the cross’s planting make it a memorable experience. Despite occasional crowds, the atmosphere remains reverent and reflective, offering a unique glimpse into the country’s colonial past

#travelCebu

#travel #cebucity #magellancross #cordovacebubridge

Went to Cebu to experience another adventure on Canyoneering and experince to swim with the “gentle giants”, but unfortunately we didn’t get the chance to do any of it due to bad weather. But still got the chance to see again the famous Magellan’s Cross.

#magellanscross #cebu2024 #cebutrip

Cross

#cebutrip Magellan's Cross in Cebu is a significant historical landmark that symbolizes the introduction of Christianity to the Philippines. The cross, housed in a simple yet charming chapel, marks the spot where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted it in 1521. This site, steeped in history, is a poignant reminder of the Philippines' colonial past and its enduring faith. The atmosphere around the cross is often reflective, with locals and tourists alike visiting to pay their respects or simply to soak in the historical ambiance. Magellan's Cross is a must-visit for its historical and cultural significance in Cebu.

#thingstodo This is one of the famous landmarks in Cebu that has appeared in historical books when studying the origin of Philippines. It’s called Magellan’s Cross - named after the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan who reached Cebu in 1521 to spread Christianity. The cross is placed inside a pavilion to signify propagation of Roman Catholic faith. Entrance to the pavilion is free. I went with my family here last year as we were in Cebu that time. It was a good experience to appreciate Philippine history.

#localescapes Magellan's Cross Pavilion is a stone kiosk in Cebu City, Philippines. It is a religious and pilgrim site that commemorates the birth of Christianity in the land. It was brought to the Philippines, Cebu specifically, by explorers of the Spanish expedition of the first circumnavigation of the world, led by Ferdinand Magellan on March 15, 1521. The Cross was seated on its current site by Magellan himself on April 21, 1521. The pavilion is a declared National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines. Location: Plaza Sugbo beside the Basilica del Santo Niño How to get there: ⭐️From the airport, you can directly ride a taxi going to the City Hall. It will cost you more or less P350.00 - Php450. ⭐️If you are from within Cebu City, you can just ride a jeepney from your place going to downtown Cebu most specifically to the City Hall.

We used trip.com again. cannot beat the price or service. Flew from Dumaguete to Mactan and back again on Cebu Pacific. No issues! picked up at the airport in Mactan. Even though the flight was early the driver was there waiting for us with a sign. He was very nice and informative. The vehicle was clean. And he took us right to the hotel door. We chose a cheap hotel because it was only one night. We got what we paid for! Don’t make that mistake! Still, the price was unbeatable and the quality of the hotel was not the fault of trip.com. We will continue using trip.com. Great prices and great service!