What to expect when visiting Cebu
Cebu is a highly urbanized city in the Philippines’ Visayas region. Often, it is the gateway to the province’s world-famous gems — diving in Malapascua, sardine run in Moalboal, canyoneering in Alegria, and swimming with whale sharks (butanding) in Oslob.
But if you have at least an extra day, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to spend it here. Cebu City played a huge role in the country’s history. You can learn all about it with a visit to Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro. In for a food trip? You will find the best lechon (the Philippines’ iconic roasted pig) in Cebu City!
3 ways to get from Moalboal to Cebu
There are three ways to travel the distance of 85 km (53 miles) from Moalboal to Cebu: by bus (3 hours), van (2.5 hours) and taxi (2.5 hours). The journey takes between 2h30m - 3h and the quickest way is by van. The lowest priced tickets start from 170 PHP ($3.00) for the bus.Where to stay in Cebu?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Cebu at the bottom of this page.
Moalboal to Cebu by Bus
To take the bus from Moalboal to Cebu, you’ll first need to get to Moalboal’s town centre via tricycle or motorcycle taxi. A ride costs 150 PHP ($2.60) and 50 PHP ($0.80), respectively.
Ceres Bus is the main operator for the Moalboal to Cebu route. Buses are available every 30 minutes from 04:00 to 18:00.
A bus ticket costs 170 PHP ($3.00) for non-aircon and 200 PHP ($3.50) for air-conditioned buses. The journey takes around 3 hours, but it may take longer depending on traffic in Cebu City.
Departure and arrival station
There is no designated bus station in Moalboal. Just head to the main road and wait for a bright yellow-coloured Ceres Bus to pass by.
Buses park at Cebu’s South Bus Terminal in the city centre.
Moalboal to Cebu by Van
A one-way van ride from Moalboal to Cebu costs 180 PHP ($3.20). Vans are available from morning until around 16:00 in the afternoon.
Travel time with a van is around 2.5 hours, a bit faster than the bus because vans do not make as many stops. Do note that vans aren’t very spacious and may be uncomfortable especially if you’re carrying a lot of luggage.
Vans depart when they are full. Sometimes though, if there aren’t enough passengers, van drivers decide not to go at all. If this happens, you can still catch a Ceres Bus from Moalboal to Cebu.
Departure and arrival station
Public vans are parked near Moalboal Municipal Hall. Drop off is at V-Hire South Terminal on Junquera Street in the city centre.
Moalboal to Cebu by Taxi
There aren’t many taxis in Moalboal. This gives drivers the upper hand in demanding higher prices.
This is why we recommend booking your private transfer via Klook, which offers comfortable cars with trusted drivers. Rates for a 3-seater sedan from Moalboal to Cebu start from 3,600 PHP ($64.00).
You can also ask your hotel’s staff to arrange a taxi ride for you. They might be able to help you negotiate for a cheaper price. For reference, a reasonable taxi rate from Moalboal to Cebu should be around 3,000 PHP ($53.00).
Our favourite places to stay in Cebu
Whilst we wouldn’t recommend spending too long in Cebu City, there might be a night or two where you need to relax and recover from a long journey. We’ve selected the perfect places for you to do just that.
Our favourite stays in Cebu are great value for money, comfortable and run by amazing staff. Check them out below!
Seda Central Bloc Cebu - Treating Yourself
Area: Cebu City centre — approx. 10-minute drive to Cebu City business area and Ayala Centre Cebu Mall
If you want to spend your time in Cebu surrounded by ultimate comfort, then Seda Central Bloc is where you need to book. The rooftop pool and bar offer spectacular views of the city. You have to come watch the sunset here!
The rooms are sleek and modern, containing anything you could possibly need. Every morning you can visit their gym after enjoying the delicious complimentary breakfast.
- Rooftop bar and swimming pool
- On-site gym
- Sleek and elegant design
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Goldberry Suites and Hotel - Mid Range
Area: Cebu City centre — approx. 5-minute drive to Cebu City business area and Ayala Centre Cebu Mall
Goldberry Suites is another spot in Cebu where you can’t complain about the price tag. The rooms are elegantly designed with small touches that make them feel that little bit more luxurious.
The staff are extremely helpful, especially the security guard who will always put a smile on your face.
- Helpful and friendly staff
- Great showers
- Elegant rooms
- Good location
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Felix Residences - Budget Friendly
Area: Mandaue City centre — approx. 15-minute drive to main Cebu City centre
Felix Residences is exceptional value for money. The standard of everything is much higher than you’d expect for the price tag. The rooms are comfortable, clean and modern, with the beds being the highlight of most people’s stay here. You’ll sleep like a baby!
The staff are great, offering a service that makes you feel well looked after from the get go.
- Very comfortable beds
- Clean and modern rooms
- Great staff
- Amazing value for money
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Moalboal to Cebu
What is the distance from Moalboal to Cebu?
The distance from Moalboal to Cebu is 85 km (53 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Moalboal to Cebu?
The fastest way to get from Moalboal to Cebu is by van and takes 2.5 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Moalboal to Cebu?
The cheapest way to get from Moalboal to Cebu is by bus with ticket costs starting from 170 PHP ($3.00).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Moalboal to Cebu. 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.
