The Best Backpacker Hostels in Cebu, Philippines

Digital nomads will love the first co-living space in Cebu, in the centre of Cebu City. It has everything you need to make your business run like clockwork, including dedicated workspaces, a conference room and food stations. Women-only and mixed dorms are available, and for those who like a little extra legroom, the beds are customisable for taller guests.

This arty hostel in Cebu City is sure to brighten any holiday, from the murals in the dorm rooms to the rainbow skulls that line the halls. Mixed and female-only dorms are available and come with shared bathrooms with rainfall showerheads and even a make-up room. The cafe serves all-day brunch and third-wave coffee, which you might be craving after you’ve visited the local sights, including Fuente Osmeña Circle park and the heritage Yap Sandiego Ancestral House.

If you want to do some island hopping, book into the HappyNest Hostel, just a five-minute walk to Pier 1 Cebu City. Leafy plants lining the walls and a sunshine-yellow Acapulco chair give the hostel a tropical feel. The bunks in the mixed and female-only dorms come with essentials such as a private curtain, a bedside light and a power outlet. For those who like to look sharp, HappyNest also offers an ironing service.

Travelbee is a budget-friendly place to rest your head, whether you’re in Cebu for business or pleasure. If you’re here for work, you’ll be pleased to know there’s a meeting room – and if you’re here to sightsee, you’re within walking distance of Fuente Osmeña Circle park and Mango Square Mall. Rooms include twins, doubles and even a serviced apartment.

A budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Cebu City, ALLSon’s Inn comes with some surprising perks, including a rooftop restaurant with city views and boxing or zumba lessons in the fitness centre. Bunk rooms and suites are available, and you can upgrade your stay to include breakfast or a minibar. If you want to sightsee, the 16th-century Basilica del Santo Niño is 10 minutes away, and if you want to buy some souvenirs, the Ayala Center Mall is also close by.

The West Gorordo is a clean and green hotel in the centre of Cebu City. It’s close to the airport and the ferry terminal, making it a good choice for travellers; island-hopping families will be excited to find out that it also has a kids club. Walk through the leafy lobby and relax by a carp-filled pool, or look out over the coast from the spacious hotel rooms.

If you are looking for a fuss-free overnight stay, book into the first capsule hotel in Cebu City centre. Each guest sleeps in an individual pod, which comes with a mattress and a basket with a fluffy white towel. Each pod also has a faux window that offers a different view of the world. Small as each pod is, there is room for a power socket and a personal light, and space for travel bags.

Travel to the south of Cebu island to find this budget hideaway with a private beach. Chill with a dip in the hot tub or read in a hammock, or venture further afield and visit the Inambakan Waterfalls or snorkel at nearby Siquijor island. You’re also within walking distance of the Boljoon street-food market. Dorm, family and private rooms are all available.

This family-friendly bed and breakfast is in an upscale residential area in Cebu City. You’re just a stone’s throw from the sights, but away from the throng. Choose from twin or triple rooms that come with ensuite bathrooms, cable TV and blackout curtains. There is a coffee house and a minimart, and you won’t want to miss breakfast, particularly the pancakes.