Cebu is one of those rare places that can work for backpackers, honeymooners, families, and even digital nomads, but your experience depends heavily on how you manage your budget.
You can enjoy a full week in Cebu without blowing your savings… or spend more in 3 days than you planned for the whole trip! It all comes down to where you stay, how you get around, and which activities you choose.
This guide breaks down the real costs of traveling around Cebu - from hotels and food to transfers, tours, and hidden extras - so you know exactly what to expect.
If you want to skip the guesswork when it comes to transportation, Cebu Tourist Transfers offers fixed, transparent pricing for private rides anywhere on the island. It’s one of the best ways to stay on budget and on time. Let’s dive into the numbers!
How Much Does a 7-Day Trip to Cebu Cost?
Here’s a sample breakdown of what a full week in Cebu might cost per person, based on 3 different travel styles. All amounts are in Philippine pesos (₱), with rough USD equivalents.
Budget Type | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
Hotel (6 nights) | ₱3,000–₱4,500 (₱500–₱750/night in dorm or budget inn) | ₱9,000–₱15,000 (₱1,500–₱2,500/night in 2–3 star hotel or Airbnb) | ₱24,000–₱60,000 (₱4,000–₱10,000+/night beachfront or 4–5 star resort) |
Food & Drinks | ₱2,100–₱3,500 (₱300–₱500/day on carinderia or fast food) | ₱5,000–₱7,000 (₱700–₱1,000/day for sit-down meals + drinks) | ₱10,000–₱14,000 (fine dining, cocktails, resorts) |
Transportation | ₱800–₱1,200 (jeepneys, buses, ferries) | ₱3,500–₱5,000 (mix of Grab, public + private transfers) | ₱6,000–₱12,000+ (private van, boat rentals, airport transfers) |
Activities | ₱1,000–₱2,000 (DIY beach days, light entrance fees) | ₱4,000–₱7,000 (tours, canyoneering, whale sharks, island hopping) | ₱10,000+ (diving packages, spa days, luxury tours) |
Other (SIM, tips, fees) | ₱500–₱800 | ₱1,000–₱1,500 | ₱2,000+ |
Estimated Total (1 week):
- Budget traveler: ₱7,500–₱12,000 ($130–$210 USD)
- Mid-range: ₱22,000–₱35,000 ($390–$620 USD)
- Luxury: ₱52,000–₱88,000+ ($930–$1,570+ USD)
Who is this for?
- If you're a solo traveler or couple, mid-range is the sweet spot. Clean stays, good food, and a couple of tours without going overboard.
- Families and groups may spend more, but splitting costs like private vans can actually make Cebu very affordable.
What drives up the cost most?
Island tours, diving, and day trips with long travel times
Private transport without sharing the cost
Hotel food and resort-only spending
If you want to keep costs reasonable without sacrificing convenience, consider booking a private transfer for your key day trips or airport runs. Our Best Day Trips from Cebu blog shows exactly where that can help.
How Much Cash Should I Bring to Cebu, and Can I Use Credit Cards?
This is one of the most common (and most important!) questions we get from guests. The short answer? Bring cash (more than you think you’ll need)
How Much Cash Should You Carry Daily?
Even if you plan to use cards for hotels and restaurants, you’ll still need cash for:
- Jeepneys, tricycles, habal-habal (motorbike taxis)
- Entrance fees, environmental fees (₱20–₱150 each)
- Tips (guides, drivers, hotel staff)
- Small shops or eateries that don’t accept cards
- Ferry terminals, island fees, and boat rentals
Always carry a mix of ₱20, ₱50, and ₱100 bills. Many vendors can’t break ₱500 or ₱1,000 notes, especially in smaller towns or beach areas.
Are Credit Cards Accepted in Cebu?
Yes, but mostly in cities and tourist hubs. Here’s where you can usually use cards:
- Hotels and resorts
- Upscale restaurants and coffee shops
- Major tour agencies
- Shopping malls and supermarkets
But cards may not be accepted at:
- Small guesthouses or local inns
- Beachfront food stalls
- Island hopping boats and dive shops
- Public transport
- Souvenir stalls at markets
Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted. American Express and Discover are rarely used.
Tip: Always ask if there's a card terminal surcharge. Some businesses add a 3–5% fee.
Can I Withdraw Cash in Cebu?
Yes, ATMs are widely available in Metro Cebu, malls, and even some tourist towns like Moalboal and Oslob. But…
- Rural areas may have only one ATM, and it might be offline
- Most ATMs have a ₱10,000 per withdrawal limit
- You may be charged ₱200–₱250 per withdrawal by local banks
Best practice:
- Withdraw enough in the city before heading to island or mountain destinations
- Bring a backup debit or prepaid card just in case
What’s the Cost of Hotels, Resorts, and Accommodation in Cebu?
Whether you’re staying for one night or a full week, Cebu offers everything from less than ₱1,000 backpacker dorms to ₱20,000+ beachfront villas. But pricing isn’t just about luxury - location, season, and amenities matter too.
You can check Booking.com, Agoda.com, Airbnb, and even Google Maps to search for suitable accommodations. Always check reviews to get a feel for the place.
Note that prices spike during peak season (December to May), holidays, and long weekends, so book early if you want the best rates.
Want to combine your hotel stay with easy, door-to-door transport?
Many guests book Cebu Tourist Transfers to get from airport to hotel (or between resorts and attractions) without hidden fees or guesswork.
With that said, if you ever find yourself in Maya, Daanbantayan and want someplace safe to stay the night (or use as your base for your day trip to Malapascua Island), check out Arriyus Apartelle. It's conveniently located right next to the New Maya Roro Port. Room rates start at ₱2,000.
How Much Does Transportation Cost in Cebu?
Getting around Cebu is fairly straightforward but the costs (and comfort level) can vary a lot depending on what you choose. Here’s what to expect when budgeting for local travel, day trips, and transfers.
Public Transportation Costs
These are the cheapest options, but they’re not always the most convenient, especially if you have luggage or are traveling with kids or seniors. This option is best for budget travelers with light bags and lots of time.
- Jeepney (city or provincial): ₱12–₱20+ per ride depending on distance
- Multicab or minibus: ₱20–₱60+ depending on distance
- Tricycle or habal-habal (motorbike taxi): ₱20–₱100+ (might be negotiable)
- Bus (Cebu City to Moalboal, Oslob, etc.): ₱150–₱300+ per way
Grab, Taxi, and City Transfers
- Grab (within Cebu City/Mactan): ₱150–₱350+ (the app can give you exact costs)
- Taxi (metered): Starts at ₱45 + ₱13.50/km
- Airport to Cebu City (taxi): ₱300–₱500+ depending on traffic
Note: Taxis and Grab are only available in Metro Cebu. You won’t find them in Moalboal, Oslob, or the north.
Private Transfers and Day Trip Transport
If you’re going beyond the city - like to waterfalls, islands, or provincial resorts - private transport is the most convenient and flexible option.
If you know your pick-up point and destination, check our Book Now page to get a free price quote.
With that said, most of our guests prefer Cebu Tourist Transfers for these longer routes. Why?
- You get fixed pricing (no surprises)
- The driver picks you up right at your hotel or Airbnb
- You can stop for food, photos, or bathroom breaks anytime
- No stress about finding a ride back
Why Book a Private Transfer in Cebu For Your Family Vacation?
Services like Cebu Tourist Transfers offer rides that are designed with families in mind. Here’s what makes our service ideal:
- You’re picked up right at the airport or your hotel
- No need to wait in lines or haggle with local drivers
- The vehicles are spacious enough for luggage, strollers, and extra bags
- Child seats can be requested in advance
- The drivers are experienced, polite, and speak English
- You can take breaks if the kids get restless
How Much Does Island Hopping Cost in Cebu?
Island activities are often the highlight of any Cebu trip but they can also be the most expensive if you're not prepared. Here's what you need to know about costs, add-ons, and what’s actually worth paying for.
How Much Does Island Hopping Cost in Cebu?
Island hopping is typically done from Mactan, Moalboal, Bantayan, or Malapascua, and pricing depends on whether you join a group tour or rent a private boat. Here are some estimates:
Group tours: ₱1,800–₱2,500 per person (Includes 2–3 islands, lunch, snorkel gear, entrance fees)
Private boat rental: ₱3,500–₱6,000 per boat (Good for 4–8 people; prices go up for bigger boats or more islands)
Entrance/environmental fees: ₱100–₱300 per island (sometimes separate)
Pro tip: If you're traveling as a group or family, private boats offer better value and flexibility. We can drop you off directly at the port and wait for your return, just let us know your itinerary.
More on this here: Island Hopping in Cebu Made Simple
Do You Need to Tip in Cebu, and How Much?
Tipping in the Philippines isn’t mandatory but it’s always appreciated. In Cebu, a small tip goes a long way, especially in the tourism and service industry.
If you’ve had a great experience, leaving a little extra is a nice gesture. And it genuinely makes someone’s day.
How Should You Tip?
- Cash is best, and always in small bills. Most service staff don’t have change for large denominations.
- Hand the tip directly if you want to be sure they receive it.
Final Budgeting Tips for Your Cebu Trip
Before you start booking flights and planning your island outfits, here are a few last tips to help your Cebu budget go further:
- Book key activities in advance during peak season (December–May, long weekends, Sinulog week).
- Bring small bills and enough cash, especially for day trips, tipping, and island activities.
- Ask if prices are all-in before booking tours. Some exclude entrance or gear rental fees.
- Split transport costs by traveling with friends or family. Private vans become much cheaper per person.
- Avoid overstuffed itineraries. Focus on 1–2 major activities per day so you don’t waste time or money rushing around.
Conclusion: Is a Cebu Trip Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a budget traveler or luxury explorer, Cebu gives you a lot of value for your money. From ₱50 street food to bucket-list dives, from ₱500 dorm beds to ocean-view villas, you can build a trip that fits your style and your wallet.
And when it comes to getting around? We’re here to help. Cebu Tourist Transfers offers reliable, island-wide transport with fixed rates and friendly local drivers who know every scenic route and secret food stop.
Need a ride to your resort, port, or day trip jump-off point? Just send us your pickup location, destination, and date. We’ll handle the rest.
