5 Side Trips to Take during the Sinulog Festival this Weekend
If you plan to participate in the Sinulog festivities this weekend, you might want to squeeze in some time for exploring historic sites and tourist spots. Below are our recommended must-see attractions that are accessible and have Instagrammable views.
1. Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu Museum (Cebu City)
Image source: Basilica Minore website
Many of the activities during the Sinulog Festival will take place at the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu. So, it's very convenient to visit its museum during your free time. It's located in the same complex as the church. They charge entrance fees ranging from 10 to 30 Php each.
They're open on Monday to Sunday, except Wednesdays, from 8 - 11:45 a.m. and 1:30 - 4:45 p.m. Keep in mind that there could be changes in the schedule because of the Sinulog festivities.
2. Krus ni Magellan/Magellan's Cross (Cebu City)
Image source: Basilica Minore website
This is an iconic tourist spot in Cebu. Most of your family or friends who's been to Cebu, probably have a photo in this attraction. The large wooden cross inside the Spanish-styled pavilion is a replica of the one that Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted when they arrived in Cebu. This attraction is also situated in the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu complex, so it's also very accessible.
3. Fort San Pedro (Cebu City)
Photo by: khuzaimi2015 (Trip Advisor)
Fort San Perdo is another must-see historical site. It's a former military defense structure built by the Spaniards under the command of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. Fort San Pedro is located near the Cebu Pier along Antonio Pigafetta Street, and just right across Plaza Independencia, where many of the Sinulog Festival events will take place.
4. Temple of Leah (Cebu City)
Photo by: Alexander A and tansally (Trip Advisor)
This temple was built by the grandfather of actress Ellen Adarna, as a symbol of undying love and devotion to his wife, Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. It's located on top of a hill in Barangay Busay, near the Cebu Transcentral Highway in Cebuu City. You'll surely enjoy taking photos with its impressive architectural design and breathtaking views.
5. Upside Down World Cebu (Mandaue City)
Photo by: udwcebu (FB)
If you're staying at Mandaue City to watch the Sinulog Fluvial Parade at Mandani Bay, then you should drop by the Upside Down World Cebu. It's a trick art museum where you can take lots of fake upside-down selfies.
Bet you can't wait to fly to Cebu this weekend. Enjoy and have a safe and memorable Sinulog experience!