Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) is the second-busiest international gateway in the Philippines and serves as the gateway to Cebu, an island-heavy province filled with culture and sunny beach adventures. I’ve explored these islands a few times and I’m always eager to return for more.
The airport sits just 12.4 miles from central Cebu City, though it’s actually located in the City of Lapu-Lapu on Mactan island in the Central Visaya region. Locals call it the Cebu City airport, which makes sense given how close it is.
Getting to CEB by taxi
I find taxi options an easy way to reach Mactan-Cebu International Airport. White metered taxis operate from both terminals, and they’re a reliable choice for getting to Cebu City and beyond.
The official airport taxis are yellow with set rates to the city (they’re not metered). I’ve used them a few times. This is an easy way to reach Cebu City. You can always rent a car later when you’re ready to explore the islands.
Getting to CEB by bus
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the local MyBus is a great way to get to the city center. The bus stop is at the taxi bay area of Terminal 1 domestic arrivals, and there’s another bus bay in Terminal 2 international arrivals.
MyBus offers daily connections to SM City Cebu plus a few other stops. The buses run from around 6 am to 9 pm with departures every 20 minutes during operating hours. Check for the current schedule with all available stops when you arrive.
Car rentals and parking
The airport has an official secured parking area. You can easily walk to the parking area from either terminal.
Car rental agencies operate at the airport and will direct you to the parking area to pick up your vehicle. You’ll find both international and local rental options. It’s a busy vacation destination, so I recommend booking before you arrive to make sure you get a car.
I love this area with so many magical places to discover, and most of it is accessible by car. I tell everyone to rent a car and explore. Public transport will only get you so far, and it can be tough to get a taxi to the less-explored spots around the islands.
Terminals
Mactan-Cebu International Airport has just 2 terminals. Terminal 1 handles all domestic flights, while Terminal 2 serves international flights at CEB.
If you’re connecting or arrive at the wrong terminal, a complimentary shuttle service runs between them regularly.
Eating and drinking at the airport
For a full meal and drinks, my favorite spot is Casa Verde in Airport Village, located right in the Terminal 1 arrivals area. If you want local cuisine, head to Filipino Delights in the south wing of the terminal.
There are also multiple coffee shops and bars if you’re in a hurry. Bo’s Coffee serves local beans, and I love chatting with the baristas here. Finally, if you need food fast, there are grab-and-go spots like Jollibee in Terminal 1 for a solid burger.
Shopping at the airport
It’s a big, modern airport, so it’s well-equipped with shops on both sides of security.
There’s a WH Smith if you need a book, a pack of gum, a local plug or maybe a neck pillow. The airport also has all the fun extras, like toys, electronics, clothing, jewelry and more. CLN is a local favorite for the fashion-forward, you’ll find it in Terminal 1 in the north wing of the departures area. I love popping in there to see what’s new.
In addition to the extensive duty-free area, there’s also District Fiesta, which sells all kinds of modern souvenirs that showcase Filipino delicacies and crafts. You’ll find this at Terminal 1 in the south wing. I love their beautifully crafted handmade bags, necklaces and unique hats, all of which are perfect for gifts for yourself or those back home.
Airport hotel and airport lounges
Got an early flight? I’d recommend the Aerotel, located right in the airport. You can also book this hotel by the hour if you just need a nap or a place to rest or work more comfortably. It’s in Terminal 2 on level 1 and has both single and double rooms that are fairly inexpensive.
I’ve visited the Philippine Airlines lounges at CEB, including the one in Terminal 2, but my favorite lounge at this airport is the Mabuhay Lounge. I especially enjoy the buffet.
Special features at the airport
One of the great cultural elements of the Philippines is the friendly massage offerings everywhere, and CEB is no exception. Stress-Away is my favorite (they’re in both terminals with excellent licensed staff), and I love nothing more before a flight than a long foot massage. You may also see Rest N Go, but these are just massage chairs.
I also love that this airport has a great salon at the Airport Village in Terminal 1. Salon De Rose does hairstyling, nails and cosmetic services. I love getting my haircut here and gossiping with the staff, who are all so friendly. It’s inexpensive and a great way to pass time at the airport.
Some more airport services
The airport has a K2 pharmacy for any last-minute or urgent medical needs. There is also a prayer room, money exchange services, and sim card services available at the airport.
The airport has designated facilities for travelers with disabilities and for families. There are areas where parents can breastfeed in privacy, with comfy seating, privacy curtains, a microwave, a sink and a changing station.
Want to explore without lugging your bags around? Luggage storage services are available at the airport. They’re inexpensive and will store luggage from a few hours up to a few months.
This isn’t *technically* an airport amenity, but if you have a lot of time to kill, I recommend heading across the street to the Waterfront Airport Hotel & Casino. If you book a stay, you can use their pool to enjoy the beautiful Cebu weather while you wait for your departure.
Back at the airport. there is free Wi-Fi and you can connect to the network with no password.
This KAYAK-commissioned article is presented as-is, for general informational purposes only, and may not be up-to-date. The opinions contained in the article are original to the author and reflect their authentic experience, which may vary significantly from the experience of others.
