About Region VII (Central Visayas)
Region VII, Central Visayas, is the vibrant heart of the Philippines, offering an irresistible blend of sun-drenched islands, rich history, and infectious local energy. Its crown jewel is Cebu, the 'Queen City of the South,' where you can stand at the Magellan's Cross, marking the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines, before diving into the crystal-clear waters to swim with gentle giants in Oslob or explore the stunning sardine runs of Moalboal. Just a short ferry ride away lies Bohol, famous for the otherworldly Chocolate Hills and the adorable, wide-eyed tarsiers. The region also encompasses the diving paradise of Siquijor, known for its mystical charm and pristine coral walls, and the bustling Negros Oriental, home to the university town of Dumaguete and the majestic twin lakes of Balinsasayao. From the electrifying Sinulog Festival in January to the serene white-sand beaches of Panglao, Central Visayas delivers a perfect itinerary of cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation, all served with the renowned warmth and hospitality of the Visayan people.
Major Hub
Things to do in Region VII (Central Visayas)
Boracay Sunset Cruise with Party DJ & Unlimited Food and Drinks
From $70
5.0 (250)
Cebu: Scuba Diving Experience beach entry in Mactan
From $45
5.0 (49)
Cebu Walking Tour — History, Culture & Local Food Experience
WaterColors - Open Water Diver Certification in Boracay
From $545
5.0 (35)
Dumaguete Tours in English | Private, Flexible Full Day Tours
From $199
5.0 (32)
Whale Shark Watching & Tumalog Falls & Kawasan Falls
From $366.67
5.0 (16)
Full Day Shark Watching and Canyoneering in Cebu
From $145
5.0 (15)
Full-Day Historical Heritage Guided Tour of Tacloban and Palo
Open Water Course (PADI)
From $400
5.0 (13)WaterColors - PADI Scuba Diver Certification in Boracay
From $485
5.0 (12)
Cebu: Kawasan Falls Canyoneering and Cliff Jump Private Tour
From $129
5.0 (8)
Oslob Whale Shark Watching + Kawasan Falls Day Tour
From $136
5.0 (8)
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Tour from Moalboal
From $72
5.0 (8)
Dumaguete: Twin Lakes Balinsasayao nature adventure and city tour
From $75
5.0 (8)
Snorkeling at San Vicente with speed boat
From $80.42
5.0 (8)Places to visit in Region VII (Central Visayas)
Sol de Quillón
Sol de Quillón, Quillón, Chile
Valle Paraiso
Valle Paraiso, 18 de Septiembre Interior Km 1, Quillón, Chile
Ruca Quillon
Ruca Quillon, Ruta N-750, Quillón, Chile
Las Totoras
Las Totoras, Las totoras, Quillón, Chile
Cabañas Isauka
Cabañas Isauka, Jorge Alessandri, Quillón, Chile
Laguna Azul
Laguna Azul, Ruta N-48-O, Quillón, Chile
Bernardo O'Higgins
Bernardo O'Higgins, El Roble, Quillón, Chile
Hotel Plaza Bulnes
Hotel Plaza Bulnes, Manuel Bulnes, 393 0000 Bulnes, Chile
BellosBosque - La Araucana
BellosBosque - La Araucana, Jorge Alessandri 658, Quillón, Chile
Peninsula del Sol
Peninsula del Sol, Peninsula, Quillón, Chile
Moteles Larqui
Moteles Larqui, Ruta 5 Sur, 393 0000 Bulnes, Chile
Viña Chillán
Viña Chillán, Ruta N-69, Bulnes, Chile
Complejo Antu
Complejo Antu Lote 6, Quillón, Chile
Hotel Plaza Quillón
Hotel Plaza Quillón, José Miguel Carrera 208, Quillón, Chile
Hotel Casa de Adobe
Hotel Casa de Adobe, Ruta N-72, 393 0000 Bulnes, Chile
Travel Tips for Region VII (Central Visayas)
Getting Around
Inter-island travel is primarily via ferries (fast crafts and roll-on/roll-off vessels) from ports in Cebu, Bohol, and Dumaguete. Within islands, options include jeepneys and buses for longer routes, tricycles for short trips within towns, and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) in rural areas. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are available in Cebu City. Taxis are metered in cities; always insist on using the meter. Car and motorcycle rentals are popular for exploring Bohol and Cebu, but driving can be chaotic for foreigners. For tours, accredited vans and boats are recommended.
Best Time To Visit
December to May is the dry season, offering the best weather for beach activities and festivals like the iconic Sinulog in January. March to May are the hottest months, ideal for diving and snorkeling when seas are calm. The rainy season from June to November brings occasional typhoons, which can disrupt ferry schedules and outdoor plans, though prices are lower and crowds thinner.
Local Customs
Filipinos are famously hospitable. A polite greeting with a smile and a slight nod is appreciated. Dress modestly when visiting churches and rural areas. When dining, it's polite to wait to be told where to sit. Tipping is not mandatory but is customary for good service (10% in restaurants, small amounts for porters and drivers). Respect elders by using 'po' and 'opo'. During festivals, participation is welcomed. Avoid loud or confrontational behavior in public. Bargaining is acceptable in markets, but do so politely.
Safety Information
Central Visayas is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions: avoid displaying valuables, be cautious in crowded areas for pickpocketing, and use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps. At night, stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be wary of common scams like overcharging for tours or transportation—agree on prices beforehand. When island-hopping, use licensed operators and check weather conditions. Some remote areas may have lower police visibility. Political rallies should be avoided. Overall, the region is tourist-friendly with a significant security presence in key areas.
Health Information
Medical facilities are adequate in major cities like Cebu City (Chong Hua Hospital, Cebu Doctors' University Hospital) and Dumaguete (Silliman University Medical Center), but can be limited on smaller islands. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date; Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended. Dengue fever is a risk, so use insect repellent. Travelers' diarrhea is common—drink bottled water and eat at reputable establishments. Consider rabies vaccination if planning extensive outdoor activities or contact with animals. Pharmacies are widely available in urban centers.
Languages Spoken
Cebuano (Bisaya)Filipino (Tagalog)English
Quick Facts
Currency
Philippine Peso (PHP)
₱
₱
Timezone
Asia/Manila +08:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+63
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
8.1 million
Area
15532 km²
Government
Region composed of provinces, highly urbanized cities, and component cities, each with its own local government unit (LGU) under a regional administrative structure.
ISO Code
7
Also known as: Philippines, City of Tagbilaran, Dakbayan sa Tagbilaran, Syudad han Tagbilaran, TAG, Tagbilaran, Tagbilaran City, Тагбиларан