Are there any dangerous neighborhoods or red-light districts to avoid in Cebu?

Cebu is one of the most popular Tourist islands in the Visayas region of the Philippines. It is a destination that attracts with its culture, nature and the beauty of the surrounding islands such as Malapascua or Kalanggaman Island.

However, it is important to know which places to avoid in Cebu, whether for safety reasons, hygiene reasons or just to stay off the beaten track. In this article, you will find a list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Cebu City, areas to avoid in Cebu Island, and tips for choosing the best place to stay.





Is Cebu City a dangerous city?

In the Philippines, the level of violence and crime has been decreasing for years (read my article: Areas to Avoid in the Philippines). But there are still some places in the country where tourists are not safe. But is this the case in Cebu City?

According to the last Numbeo ranking, it can be said that Cebu is not a safe city. In fact, its crime index is quite high: 51.52, although it is much lower than that of Manila.

Cebu City is the seventh most criminal city in Southeast Asia. She is more dangerous than Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket, Denpasar, Siem Reap or Luang Prabang.

When we compare the world level (see the figure below), Cebu ranks 334th out of 129 cities with the most crime in the world. According to this ranking, Cebu City has a higher crime rate than Lecaija, Istanbul, Edmonton, Denver or Mumbai.

Cebu Areas to Avoid?

Cebu Island is not one of the dangerous areas to avoid in the Philippines as recommended by the website French Diplomat. Currently, there are no areas on the island where tourists may be at risk, except for the dangerous areas in Cebu City (see table below). You can see for yourself the crime levels in Cebu through statistics from the Philippine Government.

Neighborhoods to Avoid in Cebu City Map

Cebu City is the capital of the Cebu Province in the Philippines and has a population of just over 9 million. It is divided into 000 barangays and many unofficial neighborhoods. To help you find neighborhoods to avoid (listed below), as well as the best neighborhoods to stay in Cebu City: Neighborhood Map

Dangerous Neighborhoods in Cebu City

By synthesizing a lot of information posted on the internet, here is a list of the most unsafe neighborhoods in Cebu City:

Pasir is near the fish market;
Parian, the old Chinese neighborhood;
Duccio Fatima, an area with more drug dealers;
Alaska Mambalin is also a difficult neighborhood;
Colon Street is not a crime place, but this street attracts a lot of pickpockets;
Ermita near the carbon market is also an area to avoid;
Some parts of Downtown Cebu (see the red areas listed below);
The neighborhood of Careta;
Some neighborhoods in the city of Mandaue are right next to Cebu City.

You can find these neighborhoods to avoid in Cebu on Google Maps.

Red Light Districts in Cebu

We can't call them dangerous, but the red light districts in Cebu are areas to avoid, especially at night. There are several similar ones near Camajayan, especially on Junquela Street and Mango Avenue in the Careta area.

Safe Neighborhoods Worth Staying When Visiting Cebu City

Cebu City is not the best place to stay on the island (noise, pollution, traffic). But if you want to explore its heritage, the San Nino Cathedral, the Cebu Heritage Monument, the Taoist temples and its lively markets, you will need to stay there for 1 or 2 days. The San Roque historical district is where the most tourist attractions and entertainment venues are concentrated. It is no problem to visit during the day, but it can be noisy and crowded at night.

If you are looking for a safer area, you can choose hotels in the Luz district or the Ayala district right next door. This is a hotel with a pool located in the Ayala district, next to a large shopping mall: Seda Cebu Ayala Center Hotel

Also know that Mactan is the island where the international airport is located. If you are only transiting for one night before flying to other islands, you can stay on this island without going to Cebu City. In fact, many hotels are located around the airport.

Where to stay in Cebu for a seaside vacation?

Cebu has some of the best beaches in the Philippines, with white sand and clear waters. Here are some of the best places to stay in Cebu City where you can enjoy a relaxing stay:

White Beach in Moalboal (Cebu)

Moalboal is a great base for exploring southern Cebu. The best place to stay is Panagsama Beach, which is about 5 kilometers from town or close to the beach. White Beach It is famous for its white sand and turquoise waters. Another good reason to choose Moalboal is that it is close to the Kawasan Falls and Mantayupan Falls in Barili. The accommodation here faces the beautiful beach and there is a snorkeling spot to see sea turtles: Sambag Hideaway Bungalows

Oslob (Cebu)

Oslob is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Cebu. The main reason for this is the whale sharks. In fact, in Oslob (just like in the Maldives), more precisely in Tanawan, you can dive with whale sharks. Oslob is perfectly located for exploring Sumilon Island or Tumalo Falls.

Bounty Beach in Malapascua Island

Bunty Beach to Malapascua is a beautiful beach near Cebu. Known for its clear waters and tranquility, this beach is a great place to stay for those who want to escape the crowds.

Santa Fe Beach, Bantayan Island

Santa Fe Beach, Bantayan Island is one of the most popular beaches in Cebu. With white sand and clear water, the beach is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun.