What to expect when visiting Bohol
Bohol is a beautiful combination of lush jungles and turquoise waters in the Philippines’ Central Visayas region. It is one of the country’s more classic destinations, so don’t be surprised to find many locals looking for adventures here any time of the year.
The island first became popular for its Chocolate Hills, but there’s so much more you can do and explore in Bohol. Cruise along the Loboc River, snorkel or dive near Balicasag Island, and explore Bohol’s centuries-old churches. If you’re lucky or persistent, you can also spot the Philippine tarsier, which is endemic to the region!
2 ways to get from Cebu to Bohol
There are 2 ways to travel the distance of 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Cebu to Bohol by flight via Manila/Davao (5 hours) and ferry (1 hour 30 minutes to 4 hours). The journey duration ranges between 1 hour 30 minutes to 5 hours and the quickest way is by ferry. The lowest priced tickets start from €6.70 for the ferry.Where to stay in Bohol?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Bohol at the bottom of this page.
Cebu to Bohol by Ferry
The ferry is the most popular mode of transport for travellers going from Cebu to Bohol. It’s an easy way to reach the island and the ferry ride only takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the weather conditions.
Two ferry companies operate from Cebu to Bohol: Oceanjet and Lite Shipping. Oceanjet operates fast boats which are more expensive, but also have a more convenient arrival port.
Departure and arrival of the ferries to Bohol
The ferries depart from Cebu Pier 1, which is only a 10-minute drive from Cebu City centre.
In Bohol, the ferries from Cebu arrive at Tubigon Port and Tagbilaran Port. You can find more information on these ports below.
Tubigon Port
Lite Shipping ferries arrive at Tubigon Port on the west side of Bohol. It’s a great option for those who want to stay in Bohol and be close to sightseeing points like the Chocolate Hills.
Tagbilaran Port
On the other hand, Oceanjet and Supercat ferries arrive at Tagbilaran Port. This port is the most popular arrival port for travellers going from Cebu to Bohol as this is where most ferries from Cebu arrive. From here, you can take a taxi or jeepney to your hotel.
Tagbilaran Port serves as an important hub in the southern Visayas. The port is located in the southern part of Bohol, just next to Panglao island, which is famous for its white sand beaches.
Below you’ll find the ferry schedules from Cebu to both ports in Bohol.
Make sure to arrive at Cebu Pier around 1 hour before your departure time as you need to pay the terminal fee and check in for your trip. This can take some time depending on queues. Plus, some ferry companies have a strict cut-off time for checking in.
Ferry schedule from Cebu to Bohol (Tubigon)
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Ferry schedule from Cebu to Bohol (Tagbilaran Pier)
Other departure stations
Cebu to Bohol by Flight via Manila/Davao
It’s not practical to book an indirect flight from Cebu to Bohol as they take at least 5 hours, after a stopover at either Manila or Davao. This means it will take more hours to fly than to take a ferry.
Most of these flights are operated by Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, Philippines Airlines (PAL), or a combination of these carriers. Planes depart from Mactan-Cebu International Airport and arrive at Bohol-Panglao International Airport. The flight fares start from 3,000 PHP (€48) but can go as low as 2,000 PHP (€32).
To check the latest schedules and the cheapest flights, click on the button below.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Best places to stay in Bohol
Bohol offers a great standard of accommodation no matter your budget. Even if you’re a budget traveller, you can still snag yourself a place with a pool. And for those able to splash the cash a little bit more, prepare to be wowed by the secluded beachfront stays available in Bohol.
Panglao Island is the main place to stay in Bohol. This is where you’ll find a lively town, beautiful beaches and world-class diving and snorkelling sites. Most of our favourite stays are in Panglao, but some of them are in more remote locations ideal for a relaxing retreat.
Three Little Birds Resort - Treating Yourself
Area: Near Anda White beach, approx. 10-min drive from Anda town
Three Little Birds Resort oozes tropical vibes, with its bamboo cottages and lush vegetation thriving everywhere. In the middle of the resort is your own watering hole in the form of a refreshing swimming pool.
To make things even more idyllic, you’ll be staying right by the beach. It’s a hard choice between splashing around in the pool or relaxing on the beach.
- Beautiful swimming pool
- Unique bamboo cottages
- Stunning rooms
- Close to the beach
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Fox & The Firefly Cottages - Mid Range
Area: Approx. 5-minute drive from Loboc town centre
You’ve probably never stayed anywhere quite like here. The unique cottages make you feel like you’re staying in a luxury treehouse surrounded by nothing but nature. And unbelievably, things get better. The private balconies offer views of the nearby rice paddies.
If this isn’t relaxing enough for you, you can head down to their deck that overlooks Loboc River. For the unforgettable experience you get here, you’d expect to pay a lot more. This place is great value for money.
- Unique and beautiful cottages
- Incredible views
- River deck
- Onsite restaurant
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Tamarind - Mid Range
Area: Approx. 10-minute drive from Panglao Town and Bohol-Panglao International Airport
Tamarind is fantastic. The rooms offer way more space than you need. They’re modern, clean and all of them come with a private balcony overlooking the pool. Oh yeah, there’s a large pool that is surrounded by comfortable sun loungers and palm trees.
Tamarind’s location is also hard to beat. It’s only a 10-minute walk to the beach. Perfect for burning off all the food you’ve been eating as there are so many great restaurants nearby.
- Private balcony
- Swimming pool
- Nice garden area
- Great location
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Nautilus Hostel & Hammocks - Budget Friendly
Area: Approx. 5-minute drive from Bohol-Panglao International Airport
This hostel has a very cool and unique vibe that brings together comfort and nature. With plants and bamboo everywhere, the hotel’s design creates a peaceful ambience. Throw in plenty of hammocks and hanging seats, and it’s idyllic.
The complimentary breakfast brings everyone together in the morning and makes it super easy to meet other travellers here.
- Cool design
- Beautiful gardens
- Sociable vibe
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
Siman Panglao - Budget Friendly
Area: Approx. 5-minute drive to Panglao town and 10-minute drive from Bohol-Panglao International Airport
This place does not feel like a budget option, so if it’s available, make sure to snap it up as quickly as you can. The rooms are spacious and overlook the large pool that sits at the centre of the hotel.
The staff do everything to accommodate your needs and make sure that you feel at home.
- Large swimming pool
- Spacious and modern rooms
- Helpful staff
- Private terrace
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Cebu to Bohol
What are the most popular attractions in Bohol?
Bohol is an island blessed by nature. Its most popular attraction are the Chocolate Hills, which is a must-visit for tourists and has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For an even better exploration of Bohol’s culture, history and natural wonders, you can take a scenic cruise along Loboc River, visit the 400-year-old Baclayon Church, drive to the 2-km Mahogany Forest and not to forget: a stop at Alona Beach (better if you can stay at one of its hotels!).
What are the best things to do in Bohol?
Every important Bohol travel guide will advise you to go island hopping in Bohol, and we totally agree! We highly recommend boating to the nearby Balicasag and Virgin islands, which boast of pristine waters and white sand beaches. While on the boat trip, you can check out the beautiful coral reefs and go diving or snorkelling.
Are you into hiking? Bohol has over 40 mountains — the highest of which is Mt. Matunog. If you’re looking for a camping adventure, then this is the place to be.
Don’t forget to go shopping for souvenirs. Bohol is famous for its handicrafts, like ceramics, baskets & mats, and raffia woven cloth.
What to eat in Bohol?
When it comes to food, Bohol has so much to offer. For breakfast, try out the chorizo de Bohol dish, best paired with fried rice and egg. For drinks, Bohol is known for it’s sicuate, local chocolate drinks made from Jagna’s famed cacao.
Craving for a snack? Have a taste of Jagna calamay (made of glutinous rice and stored in a coconut shell) and ube polvoron (made from purple yam, Bohol’s staple crop).
And of course, seafood. Fishing is life for many residents in Bohol and they make a good catch for tourists. Grilled sea urchin by the beach, anyone? They can be expensive, though. Be prepared to haggle and always ask for the price in advance. There have been instances of travellers being asked to pay exorbitant prices for seafood on Bohol islands.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Cebu to Bohol. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
