How to Get Around Cebu Without a Car: A Comprehensive Guide for Visitors and Residents

Cebu, a bustling island province in the Philippines, offers a mix of urban convenience and tropical beauty. But unlike cities such as Singapore or Tokyo, Cebu’s transportation system is still evolving. For foreigners or new residents, getting around Cebu without a private car might seem daunting at first. Fortunately, there are many affordable, accessible, and even fun alternatives to driving. This guide will walk you through the most effective ways to get around Cebu—without the hassle of owning a car.

1. Understanding Cebu’s Layout

Before diving into transportation methods, it’s important to understand how Cebu is laid out:

• Cebu City is the business and cultural heart of the island, home to malls, hospitals, universities, and government offices.

• Mandaue City is a manufacturing and industrial area located just north of Cebu City.

• Lapu-Lapu City (on Mactan Island) is where you’ll find the international airport and most beach resorts.

• Talisay and Consolacion are suburban areas often used for residential living.

Traffic congestion is common, especially during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM), so planning your routes and travel times can make a big difference.

2. Ride-Hailing Apps: The Easiest Option for Most

Grab (and Soon, Move It)

Grab is Southeast Asia’s equivalent to Uber and remains the most convenient option for getting around Cebu without a car. Simply download the app, input your pickup and drop-off locations, and a driver will come to you.

• Pros: Air-conditioned, fixed price, safe for foreigners

• Cons: Prices may surge during peak hours, limited coverage in rural areas

Tip: Always confirm your driver’s plate number and identity before entering the vehicle.

Coming Soon: Move It / Angkas for Motorbike Taxis

Angkas is already popular in Manila and may expand further in Cebu. Motorbike taxis are cheap and quick, especially for solo riders.

3. Taxis: Widely Available but Vary in Quality

Taxis are readily available, especially around malls, hotels, and the airport. Always insist on using the meter, and avoid drivers who quote a flat rate.

• Flag down rate: Around PHP 40, plus PHP 13.50 per kilometer

• App-based taxis: You can also book taxis via Grab

Warning: Some older taxis may not have functioning air conditioning or seatbelts.

4. Beep and MyBus: Cebu’s Modern Commuter Buses

MyBus

MyBus is a reliable, modern public bus service connecting Cebu City, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu (including the Mactan-Cebu International Airport).

• Route coverage: SM Seaside to Mactan Airport

• Fare: Around PHP 25–50

• Payment: Tap cards (reloadable at terminals)

Beep

Beep is a minibus-style service (not to be confused with Manila’s Beep card system) that covers city routes with air-conditioned minibuses.

• Fare: Starts at PHP 10

• Pros: Cheaper and more comfortable than a jeepney

• Cons: Limited stops; best for fixed commutes (e.g., office to home)

5. Jeepneys: The Iconic but Intimidating Local Ride

Jeepneys are the backbone of Philippine transport. They are colorful, affordable (PHP 13–15), and run on fixed routes. However, they can be confusing for newcomers.

How to Use a Jeepney

• Know your route name and landmark (e.g., “Ayala–SM” or “Colon–Banawa”)

• Flag down the jeepney from the side of the road

• Hand over the fare to the driver or pass it forward

• Say “lugar lang” (please stop) when nearing your destination

Tip: Use Google Maps + the Sakay.ph website to understand routes

Best for: Short, fixed routes if you’re feeling adventurous or want to immerse yourself in local life

6. Motorcycle Taxis: Fast and Efficient for Solo Travelers

Motorcycle taxis, often called “habal-habal,” are available throughout Cebu, especially in areas where cars can’t easily pass.

• Fare: Negotiated upfront (usually PHP 20–80 depending on distance)

• Use case: Hill areas like Busay, remote barangays, or late at night

• Safety note: Wear a helmet and avoid riding during heavy rain

Apps like Angkas and JoyRide help make this experience safer and more professional, especially in cities.

7. Tricycles and Pedicabs: Best for Local Neighborhood Travel

In neighborhoods or barangays, tricycles (motorized) and pedicabs (bicycle-powered) are commonly used.

• Fare: PHP 10–30 per ride

• Capacity: Usually 2–3 passengers

• When to use: Going to the market, small mall, or local school

They don’t travel long distances but are perfect for short errands or areas without jeepneys.

8. Walking: Viable in Some Areas, Difficult in Others

Cebu is not a pedestrian paradise, but there are walkable zones:

• IT Park: Sidewalks, cafés, co-working spaces

• Ayala Center Cebu: Well-designed paths and crossings

• SM Seaside: Large open walking space

Cons: Outside of major centers, sidewalks may be broken, narrow, or occupied by vendors. Heat and sudden rain are also concerns.

9. Biking: Growing Slowly but Still Limited

Cycling in Cebu is gaining traction, especially since the pandemic. Dedicated bike lanes are being added, but safety remains a concern.

• Best areas: SRP boulevard, Busay hills (for scenic rides), and IT Park perimeter

• Bike rentals: Rare but available near tourist areas like Mactan and Capitol

• Caution: No dedicated lanes on many roads; wear a helmet and high-vis gear

10. Ferries and Boats: Inter-Island and Coastal Travel

For inter-island travel or reaching remote beaches, ferries and boats are excellent.

• From Cebu City Port: Ferries to Bohol, Leyte, Dumaguete, and Siquijor

• From Lapu-Lapu: Boats to Olango Island, or pump boats to nearby beach areas

Operators: OceanJet, SuperCat, and local bangka boats

Pro tip: Buy tickets online in advance during holidays or weekends

11. Renting a Scooter or Motorbike (If You Change Your Mind)

If you’re staying longer than a few weeks, renting a scooter can be convenient.

• Rental rate: PHP 300–600 per day

• License: Foreign license with English text is accepted for 90 days

• Caution: Driving in Cebu can be chaotic. Stick to side roads if you’re not used to local traffic culture.

12. How to Travel Between Cebu City and Mactan (Airport)

Traveling between Cebu City and Mactan can take 30–90 minutes depending on traffic. Here are the options:

13. Tips for Navigating Cebu Without a Car

• Download apps: Grab, Google Maps, Sakay.ph, Angkas (for motorbikes)

• Ask locals: Filipinos are very helpful; just ask for directions

• Travel light: Smaller bags make it easier to hop on jeepneys or bikes

• Avoid rush hour: Mornings (7–9 AM) and evenings (5–7 PM) are the worst

• Be patient: Things might not always be on time—welcome to island life!

14. Sample Scenarios

Case 1: Commuting Daily to IT Park from Mandaue

• Option 1: MyBus to Ayala → Jeepney or taxi to IT Park

• Option 2: Grab (faster, more expensive)

Case 2: Visiting a Beach Resort in Mactan from Cebu City

• Option 1: Grab from Cebu City to resort (convenient)

• Option 2: MyBus to airport → local tricycle or taxi

Case 3: Living in Cebu Without a Car as a Foreigner

• Rent an apartment near Ayala, IT Park, or SM City for walkability

• Use Grab or Beep for commuting

• Buy a folding bicycle or use motorbike taxis for errands

Final Thoughts

Living or traveling in Cebu without a private vehicle is not only possible—it can also be more economical, flexible, and immersive. While the city still has a long way to go in developing infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, the rise of ride-hailing apps, minibuses, and modern public transport is a game changer.

Whether you’re here for a short stay or planning a long-term relocation, mastering Cebu’s transportation options will empower you to explore the island confidently. Ditch the car, pack your patience, and enjoy the ride—Cebu has plenty to offer, even without the driver’s seat.