Cebu is warm and tropical year-round, with the driest, sunniest stretch from roughly December to May and the wetter, more humid months from June to November (typhoons are possible but Cebu is somewhat sheltered compared to Luzon). The peak season is December through April, when European and domestic tourists arrive; March to May brings the hottest temperatures. The single biggest event is the Sinulog Festival in mid-January, a massive religious street parade honoring the Santo Nino that draws over a million people; book hotels months ahead if you want to be here for it. For the best balance of good weather and lighter crowds, aim for late November or June.

Nearly everyone arrives at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) on Mactan Island, a modern terminal with a much-photographed wooden-arched design and direct flights across Asia. From the airport, use the Grab ride-hailing app rather than negotiating with taxis; a metered white taxi is fine too, but insist on the meter. Getting into Cebu City from Mactan takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic, which can be heavy. In the city, Grab is the easiest way to get around; jeepneys are cheap and iconic but confusing for first-timers. For day trips south to Oslob or Moalboal, a private van or a joined tour is far more practical than public buses.