Cebu is known for its gorgeous beaches, serene waterfalls, as well as a bounty of religious and historical sites. As such, travelers visiting Cebu typically fill their itineraries with popular tourist activities like scuba diving in Moalboal Beach, taking stunning photos in Kawasan Falls, and exploring the famous churches in the heart of the city.
However, one activity that every tourist should consider adding to their Cebu itinerary is shopping. Even though it isn’t the first thing people think about when they get to the Queen City of the South, it’s something that needs to be experienced. Each shopping area in the city has its own unique qualities that can enrich your trip.
If you’re visiting Cebu anytime soon, check out the following must-visit shopping destinations:
The Mall at NUSTAR
If you’re looking for a luxury shopping experience in Cebu, then The Mall is the best place to go. This shopping destination is located in a 5-star resort in Cebu— NUSTAR Resort and Casino—and houses a variety of 35 high-end global fashion brands that cater to the most sophisticated of shoppers. Moreover, The Mall has over 40 restaurants, each featuring a different global or regional cuisine. As such, you can savor the flavors of delicious dishes from various parts of the Philippines and the world before continuing your luxury shopping spree.
Carbon Market
Carbon Market is Cebu’s biggest and oldest shopping destination, offering a wide variety of budget-friendly goods. Here you can explore the maze of stalls and shops, where you'll find everything from local fruits and vegetables to affordable clothing and household items. During weekends, Carbon Market transforms into an open-air night market where travelers and locals alike can have a taste of Cebu City’s iconic eats. In short, Carbon Market is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in Cebu's culture, discover unique souvenirs, and taste the city’s favorite fares day or night. Carbon Market is located along M.C. Briones Street, next to the Senior Citizen’s Park.
Pasil Wet Market
Pasil Wet Market in Barangay Suba is known as a seafood lover’s paradise. Here, you can discover a wide selection of fresh catches from the sea, including a wide variety of fish, crabs, shrimps, squid, and seaweeds—all of which are sold at low cost compared to their supermarket price. Apart from fresh seafood, Pasil Wet Market is also the best place to grab a bowl of nilarang, a fish stew originating from the Central Visayas Islands and made with a spicy-sour coconut milk broth. You can get this dish from any one of the small roadside eateries in the market. If you want to see Pasil Wet Market at its liveliest, then you should visit it between 3 am to 6 am.
Taboan Public Market
Located near Pasil Wet Market, the Taboan Public Market is famous for being the biggest dried fish market in Cebu City. Visitors can explore the narrow alleys lined with stalls, offering a wide range of dried seafood products, including danggit (dried, salted spinefoot) and daing na pusit (dried squid). You can also find a variety of pasalubong staples, like dried mangoes, at more affordable prices. Indeed, Taboan Public Market is the perfect place to buy delectable Cebuano delicacies that make for excellent gifts and souvenirs.
Colon Street
Colon Street is a bustling commercial area known for its shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Travelers can explore a mix of modern boutiques and traditional stores selling a wide range of products, from fashion items like bags and jewelry to household goods like kitchen supplies and accessories. As the Philippines’ oldest national road, Colon Street holds a special place in many of Cebuano’s hearts. Shopping in this area gives you a unique experience where you can buy inexpensive but high-quality goods while soaking in the city's rich history.
Sugbo Mercado
Sugbo Mercado is a food market that has taken Cebu by storm. Located in various spots across Cebu City, including Cebu IT Park and Cebu Business Park, this food market offers a culinary adventure for travelers. From local Filipino dishes to international cuisine, Sugbo Mercado boasts a diverse range of culinary styles. It's a foodie's paradise where you can sample Cebuano specialties and indulge in unique flavors.
Alegre Guitar Factory
For those seeking more than the usual souvenirs, the Alegre Guitar Factory is a must-visit. Located in Lapu-Lapu City, this factory showcases the craftsmanship behind Cebu's world-renowned guitars and ukuleles. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the intricate process of guitar-making and the history of Alegre Guitars. It's also an excellent place to purchase high-quality handcrafted guitars and ukuleles as a keepsake for your visit to Cebu.
Cebu has many sites and attractions where you can create memorable moments in the city. However, if you want to immerse yourself in a truly unique shopping experience, then these destinations should be part of your itinerary. Each shopping area has its own unique charm, giving you an interesting glimpse of what it’s like living in Cebu City.
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