Mactan–Cebu Layover Guide (CEB)

What are you looking for in CEB?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Mactan–Cebu Airport (CEB) is an international airport located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines. It’s situated about 15 km (9 miles) from downtown Cebu City. The airport first opened in the 1960s and has since become a major gateway to the Visayas region. Cebu is the Philippines’ second-largest metropolitan area, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant economy, making it a key destination for both business and tourism.

Can you leave Mactan–Cebu Airport (CEB) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Yes, you can exit Mactan–Cebu International Airport during a layover, provided your transit exceeds your minimum connection time. Upon arrival, you must clear immigration. Most nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 days; otherwise, secure a transit or tourist visa in advance and passport proof. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Mactan Shrine The historic site commemorates native chieftain Lapu-Lapu’s victory over Magellan. Enjoy waterfront views, cultural exhibits, and photo ops against bronze statue backdrop in a peaceful park setting guides present stories. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi 10 minutes.)
• Shangri-La Mactan Resort Relax in a luxurious beachfront resort, swim in lagoon pools, indulge in spa treatments and local cuisine at onsite restaurants while enjoying panoramic ocean vistas. Perfect for unwinding between flights. (Time required: 2–3 hours. / Airport to here: Resort shuttle or taxi 15 minutes.)
• Island Hopping Tour Experience crystal-clear snorkeling at vibrant coral gardens around Hilutungan and Nalusuan Islands, swim with tropical fish, savor grilled seafood picnic on sandbar and soak up stunning marine life memorable adventure. (Time required: 3–4 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi 15 minutes to marina + boat transfer.)
• Olango Island Bird Sanctuary Discover migratory Philippine and Chinese egrets along mangrove trails, observe endemic shorebirds at hideouts, stroll peaceful saltwater mudflats and learn conservation efforts at visitor centre. Ideal for nature enthusiasts photographers. (Time required: 3 hours. / Airport to here: 45 min ferry + tricycle.)
• Mactan Marina Mall Browse local boutiques for handcrafted guitars, shell jewelry and native textiles. Catch a movie, grab refreshments at food court or rooftop cafe and watch yachts dock. Budget-friendly retail therapy spot. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Free shuttle or taxi 10 minutes.)
• Sutukil Seafood Market Choose fresh catch at waterfront stalls, have it cooked three ways—grilled, stewed and kinilaw—while enjoying traditional Visayan music ambience. Sample coconut rice, local beer and chat with friendly vendors lively. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi 15 minutes.)
• Punta Engaño Beach Walk & Lighthouse Walk along serene white-sand beach towards historic lighthouse ruins, admire sunset hues, picnic under palm trees and dip in clear shallow waters for a tranquil coastal escape hidden gem insider. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi 20 minutes.)
• Tsunami Spa Experience Indulge in traditional Filipino hilot massage, relax in heated pools, steam rooms and sauna. Rejuvenate tired muscles before flight with aromatic oils and trained therapists. Quick escape for weary travelers. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi 10 minutes.)

Things to Do in Mactan–Cebu Airport (CEB)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Mactan–Cebu offers several pay-per-use and airline lounges post-security, including the Premium Plaza Lounge, PAGSS Executive Lounge, and Mabuhay Lounge. Amenities range from comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, and beverages to shower facilities and charging stations. These lounges provide a quiet, air-conditioned retreat ideal for business travelers or those seeking a peaceful break before departure. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Numerous hotels within a 5-minute drive of the airport cater to layovers and early flights. Options include Courtyard by Marriott Mactan, Crimson Resort’s Day Rooms, and budget inns near the Old Mactan Town Center. Many offer airport shuttles, flexible check‐in/out, day-use rates, and in-room amenities like free Wi-Fi and coffee, ideal for rest or work. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
While there’s no dedicated sleep pod zone, you’ll find benches, padded chairs, and quiet corners beyond security’s departures hall. Some travelers stretch out on rows of seats without armrests or use carry-on luggage as makeshift pillows. Security patrols run regularly, so resting passengers should stay mindful of announcements and keep belongings secure.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal; simply select “MCIA_Free_WiFi” and register with your email or social account for 30-minute sessions. After expiry, you can reconnect or purchase extended access via airport kiosks. Mobile charging stations and USB outlets are plentiful in both departure and arrival areas, ensuring continuous connectivity for work or entertainment.

SIM/eSIM Card: Local telco kiosks for Globe, Smart, and TNT are located in the arrivals lobby, offering prepaid SIMs and eSIM registrations. Packages typically include data, calls, and texts starting at ₱200 (30 days). Bring your passport for registration, and staff can assist with eSIM installation on compatible devices. Top-ups and SIM swaps are available 24/7. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Official airport taxis operate from the arrivals kerb with fixed tariffs based on city zones. Simply queue at the marked yellow taxi stand and present your destination to the dispatcher. All taxis are metered; trips to Cebu City cost ₱250–₱350 depending on traffic. Payment by cash only; no ride-hailing inside the terminal.

Train: There is currently no direct rail link serving Mactan–Cebu Airport. Ground transport remains by taxi, bus, or shuttle services only. (more info)

Bus: Cebu’s integrated “MyBus” airport shuttle runs every 30–45 minutes between the terminal and key city stops (Mactan East, SM City Cebu, Cebu IT Park). Tickets cost around ₱100 and can be purchased onboard. Standard Ceres buses also connect to southern Cebu towns. (more info)

Shuttle: Many hotels and resorts offer complimentary or paid shuttle services, bookable in advance. Vehicles usually depart upon request and cover central Cebu City, Mactan resorts, and nearby Mandaue. Schedules vary by property—confirm with your hotel reception. Shared van services can be arranged at tourist desks in arrivals.

Car rentals: Major international and local car-rental firms maintain counters in the arrivals hall, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local operators. Options range from economy hatchbacks to SUVs with daily rates starting at ₱1,800. Drivers must present a valid international driving permit or Philippine license and credit card for deposit. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: The airport offers short-term (first hour free, ₱40 per extra hour) and long-term parking (₱100 per day) in multi-level and open lots adjacent to the terminal. Valet service is unavailable. All areas are monitored by CCTV; remember to note your lot and row to avoid confusion on return.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There is no official luggage storage or locker facility inside the terminal. Travelers may use cloakroom services at select nearby hotels or third-party providers in Mactan City. Alternatively, ride-share drivers will often hold excess bags during city tours if arranged in advance. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Mactan–Cebu Airport (CEB) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks