Tips & Reminders for Visiting Tops Lookout
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Entrance fee: PHP 100 (cash only)
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You can bring your own food and drinks, but we recommend trying the BBQ and sisig sold at local stalls on site!
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Even if it’s cloudy during the day, the sky often clears up at night—check the weather forecast before going
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It can get windy due to the elevation—bring a light jacket or hoodie
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There are toilets available, but they can be dimly lit at night—your phone’s flashlight may come in handy
Pro Tip: Leave around 5:00 PM, stay from 6:00–8:00 PM to catch both sunset and night views.
You’ll be back at the dorm in time to rest up for class the next day!
[Read more in our 3D ACADEMY blog: Tops Lookout isn’t just about the night view!]
️ 2. Temple of Leah
Cebu’s “Taj Mahal” — a temple of love, grandeur, and unforgettable photos
Why It’s Amazing
Perched in the hills of Busay, the Temple of Leah is a massive Greco-Roman style structure built in honor of the founder’s late wife, Leah.
Often called “Cebu’s Taj Mahal”, it’s a monument of love, memory, and timeless beauty.
Standing before the structure feels like stepping into a movie scene—marble staircases, towering pillars, and a golden statue of Leah welcome you into this unique landmark.
Its grand terrace overlooks the mountains and city below, and the atmosphere is serene and powerful at the same time.
With so many Instagram-worthy spots, it’s no wonder the hashtag #templeofleah has thousands of posts!
️ What 3D Students Say
“I couldn’t believe I was still in the Philippines! The architecture looked so European. I wore a long dress and felt like I was in a destination wedding shoot!”
— Taiwanese student, female, 20s
“The view was beautiful, but what struck me most was how quiet and peaceful it felt inside. History and architecture fans will love this place.”
— Korean student, male, 30s
Who Should Go
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Anyone looking for dramatic, photo-ready scenery
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Fans of grand architecture and local legends
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Those who prefer sightseeing without too much walking
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Students wanting a chill afternoon with great views and cool breezes
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Those combining Tops Lookout + Sirao Garden + Temple of Leah into one half-day trip
How to Get There
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Around 30–40 minutes by Grab from 3D ACADEMY
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Located slightly before Tops Lookout along the same route
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Many students visit as part of a Tops + Sirao + Temple combo tour
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Grab fare round-trip: PHP 600–900 (sharing with friends is best)
Tips & Reminders for Visiting Temple of Leah
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Entrance Fee: PHP 100 (as of 2025)
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Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (may close earlier in bad weather)
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Average Stay: 30–45 minutes (may take longer if photo spots are crowded)
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Facilities: Toilets and a small café selling snacks and drinks
Visit Tips
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Best time to go: late morning to afternoon for soft, natural lighting
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White or bright-colored outfits look stunning against the stone backdrop
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If you’re lucky, you might even catch a bit of mountain mist—it adds a magical vibe!
Pro Tip: Combine it with Tops Lookout and Sirao Garden for a perfect half-day tour:
Temple → Sirao Garden → Tops (for sunset/night view)
[Read our 3D ACADEMY blog experience: Cebu’s “Taj Mahal”? Discover Temple of Leah!]
3. Sirao Flower Garden
Little Amsterdam in Cebu – A floral paradise made for your camera roll
Why It’s Amazing
About 40–50 minutes by car from Cebu City, Sirao Flower Garden is a hillside haven full of bright flowers and whimsical photo installations.
Because of its vibrant color palette and artistic backdrops, it’s often called “Little Amsterdam.”
You’ll find rows of celosia, marigolds, and sunflowers as far as the eye can see, along with giant hand sculptures, swings, angel wings, and more—all designed with one goal in mind: amazing photos.
️ What 3D Students Say
“There were so many photo spots—I didn’t know where to start! I wore a flowy dress and felt like a model on vacation.”
— Japanese student, female, 20s
“I’m not usually into nature stuff, but this place was fun. The sets were creative and we spent over an hour just taking pictures of each other.”
— Mongolian student, male, 20s
Who Should Go
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Students who love Instagrammable experiences
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Couples or friend groups looking for a chill and colorful escape
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Anyone who wants to relax and reconnect with nature (with style!)
How to Get There
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From 3D ACADEMY, Grab ride takes 40–50 minutes
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Many students visit as part of a Tops + Temple of Leah + Sirao combo tour
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Round-trip Grab cost: PHP 700–1,000 (best to split with 3+ friends)
Entrance & Practical Info
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Entrance Fee: Around PHP 100 (may vary by section or garden)
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Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (may close early in poor weather)
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There are multiple gardens in the area—each may charge separate fees
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Popular photo spots may have lines, especially on weekends
Visit Tips
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Wear bright or floral outfits—they pop beautifully against the flowers
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Sneakers recommended—some areas have slopes or muddy paths
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A tripod or selfie stick is helpful for solo or group shots
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Light snacks and drinks are sold near the entrance (slightly overpriced)
Best Time to Visit
From morning to early afternoon is ideal! Natural light brings out the vibrant flower colors, and it’s usually less crowded earlier in the day.
[Check out the 3D ACADEMY blog: Top 3 Instagrammable Spots in Cebu City!]
4. Kawasan Falls
Swim, jump, and refresh in one of Cebu’s most stunning turquoise waterfalls!
Why It’s Amazing
Located in the town of Badian, on Cebu’s southwestern coast, Kawasan Falls is one of the island’s most iconic natural attractions. Its star feature? A breathtaking, turquoise-blue lagoon at the base of a waterfall.
Adventurous students can try canyoneering (climbing, swimming, and jumping downriver), or simply relax and swim in the cool, crystal-clear waters. It’s the kind of experience students often call the highlight of their stay.
️ What 3D Students Say
“It was my first time canyoneering, and the guides were super friendly and helpful! The water was so clear—photos can’t capture it fully.”
(Thai student, 20s)“Jumping into the river was the most freeing feeling ever. Honestly, it’s more memorable than my English classes!”
(Japanese student, 30s)Who Should Go
- Students who want to connect with nature through adventure
- Travelers who prefer real experiences over Instagram posts
- Anyone wanting to say “I had an adventure in Cebu!”
- Those looking for a physical and mental reset in nature
How to Get There (from Cebu City)
- Take a bus from South Bus Terminal to Badian (~3–4 hours)
- From the drop-off point, walk or take a motorbike (~15 minutes)
- First-timers are strongly advised to join a 1-day guided tour
Tour price: PHP 1,500–2,500 (includes guide, transport, gear, and lunch)
Tips & Reminders
- Wear clothes that can get wet! (Swimsuit + t-shirt + rash guard recommended)
- Bring a waterproof case for your phone. Many students use a GoPro.
- Avoid flip-flops—riverbeds are rocky. Tours usually provide protective footwear
- There are snacks near the falls, but lunch-included tours are more convenient
- Weekends get crowded, so go on a weekday or leave early
Bonus Tip: Combine with a Moalboal overnight trip! Travel Friday evening, do canyoneering on Saturday, and relax on the beach Sunday before heading back.
[Read our 3D ACADEMY blog: I Tried Visiting Kawasan Falls on a Budget Bus Adventure!]
️ 5. Fort San Pedro & Magellan’s Cross
Step into Cebu’s colonial past with two iconic historical landmarks
Why It’s Amazing
Right in the heart of Cebu City, the Colon area is home to two of the oldest and most significant Spanish-era structures in the Philippines:
- Fort San Pedro, the country’s oldest fortress
- Magellan’s Cross, a symbol of the Christianization of the islands
Built in the 16th century, both sites offer a tangible connection to Cebu’s colonial history. It’s a brief but enriching journey into the cultural roots of the Philippines—perfect for an afternoon break from studying.
️ What 3D Students Say
“I had no idea Cebu had such old buildings! The thick stone walls made it feel like I was stepping back in time.”
(Japanese student, female, 20s)“The ceiling mural inside Magellan’s Cross was beautiful. It made me appreciate the blend of religion and history in Filipino culture.”
(Saudi student, male, 30s)Who Should Go
- Students looking for quick, affordable sightseeing within the city
- History and culture lovers
- Travelers who enjoy intellectual exploration over selfies
- Anyone with a free afternoon and curiosity about the past
How to Get There
- Grab from 3D ACADEMY: 20–30 minutes (PHP 150–200)
- The two sites are within 3 minutes’ walking distance from each other
Entry & Info
Fort San Pedro
- Entrance Fee: PHP 30 (student discounts available)
- Recommended stay: 30–45 minutes
- Features: courtyard, cannons, and colonial-era ambiance
✝️ Magellan’s Cross
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Recommended stay: 15–30 minutes
- Highlight: The iconic wooden cross housed under a dome
Tips for Visiting
- Bring water and a hat as Fort San Pedro is mostly outdoors
- The Colon area is crowded—watch your belongings
- Informational signage is in English—great for history buffs
Pro Tip: Combine it with a stop at a nearby mall (like Ayala or SM Seaside) for a mix of culture and comfort.
[Read more in our 3D ACADEMY blog: Exploring Cebu’s History Through Santo Niño and Magellan’s Cross]
✨ Which Cebu Destination Is Perfect for You?
Make your weekends match your personality and mood
While Cebu is known for English study, it also offers unique travel experiences especially suited for international students.
In this article, we introduced 5 day-trip destinations—each with its own charm.
Which one is right for you? Let’s find out based on your travel style and goals!
For Photo Lovers & Social Media Enthusiasts
Temple of Leah
→ With its majestic architecture and myth-like vibe, it’s perfect for dressed-up photo shoots.Sirao Flower Garden
→ A colorful mix of flowers and art installations—ideal for taking dozens of amazing photos.Photos aren’t just memories—they also boost your motivation!
For Nature Seekers & Adventurers
Kawasan Falls
→ For active students who want to try canyoneering, jumping into waterfalls, and feeling fully alive!Tops Lookout
→ Relax in cooler air while enjoying Cebu’s dazzling city lights. Best in the evening.Being in nature helps reset your energy and clears your mind.
For Short, Easy Cultural Exploration
Fort San Pedro & Magellan’s Cross
→ Quick to visit, rich in history. Learn about Cebu’s roots right in the city center—perfect after class.Walking through historical sites adds a deeper layer to your everyday life.
Sample Itineraries for Different Schedules
✅ Half-Day Plan (Afternoon)
3:00 PM: Temple of Leah → Sirao Garden → Tops Lookout (sunset view)
Return: Around 8:30 PM✅ Full-Day Plan (Saturday)
8:00 AM: Join a Kawasan Falls canyoneering tour
Return: Around 5:00 PM✅ After-Class Plan (from 3:00 PM)
Fort San Pedro & Magellan’s Cross → Café stop → Dinner at a mall → Back to dorm
Final Thoughts: Sightseeing = A Balance of Learning & Reward
English study can be intense, and it’s easy to get caught in the dorm–classroom routine.
But just a few hours exploring outside can refresh your mind and improve your learning focus.Remember: sightseeing isn’t just “fun”—it’s part of your global education.
It’s about culture, language practice, and unforgettable memories with friends.As a 3D ACADEMY student, don’t forget to enjoy the classroom outside the classroom—Cebu itself!