For Filipino Catholics and pilgrims from around the world, Cebu is a sacred place: the first Christian baptisms in the Philippines took place here in 1521. Here are the churches and shrines we visit most with pilgrim groups.
Cebu City: where it all began
Magellan's Cross
Planted on Ferdinand Magellan's orders in 1521, the cross is kept in a small chapel with a beautifully painted ceiling, next to the Basilica.
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño
Home of the image of the Santo Niño (Holy Child), given in 1521 and the oldest Christian image in the Philippines. The Sinulog festival in January honours it, and Friday masses draw huge crowds.
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral and Archdiocesan shrines
A short walk from the Basilica. Our city pilgrimage also visits the Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint Pedro Calungsod, the second Filipino saint, and the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Mactan Shrine
Across the bridge in Lapu-Lapu City, the shrine marks the 1521 battle of Mactan, with the Lapu-Lapu monument and the Santo Niño church of Mactan nearby.
South Cebu: Simala, Carcar and Naga
Simala Shrine (Monastery of the Holy Eucharist), Sibonga
A striking castle-like monastery on a hill, built around the image of Our Lady of Lindogon, which devotees say has wept and healed the sick. Thousands of pilgrims leave letters and thanksgiving offerings. It is about 1.5–2 hours south of Cebu City.
Carcar: St. Catherine of Alexandria and Archbishop Teofilo Camomot Shrine
Carcar is a heritage town with a beautiful old church and the shrine of Archbishop Teofilo Camomot, a candidate for sainthood. Try Carcar's famous chicharon and ampao.
Naga and Sibonga
The Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi in Naga and the Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church in Sibonga complete a full South Cebu pilgrimage day.
Bohol's heritage churches
Bohol has some of the oldest stone churches in the country, including Baclayon Church and the St. Joseph Cathedral in Tagbilaran. Our Bohol pilgrimage day trip combines them with the Chocolate Hills.
Tips for pilgrims
- Dress code: covered shoulders and knees; no shorts or sleeveless tops, especially at Simala (wraps may be available at the entrance).
- Go early on weekdays; Sundays, Fridays at the Basilica and Holy Week are very crowded.
- Keep silence inside the churches and ask before taking photos during mass.
- Bring small bills for candles and offerings.
- Groups: tell us your mass times and we plan the route around them.
Pilgrimage tours from 1 to 5 days
We run private pilgrimage tours by air-conditioned van, from one day in Cebu City to five days across Cebu and Bohol. See all pilgrimage tours.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important church in Cebu?
The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, home of the oldest Christian image in the Philippines, next to Magellan's Cross.
How far is Simala Shrine from Cebu City?
About 1.5–2 hours by road to Sibonga, South Cebu, depending on traffic.
What should I wear to Simala Shrine?
Modest clothing: covered shoulders and knees. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not allowed.
Can I combine a pilgrimage with Bohol?
Yes. Our Bohol pilgrimage day trip and multi-day pilgrimage tours include Bohol's historic churches.
Prices on tour cards are live from our booking system. Fees set by local governments (entrance and environmental fees) can change; we confirm everything when you book.