Colon Street Cebu City
Cebu City's historic heart, Colon Street is the oldest national road, buzzing with shops, eateries, and a vibrant weekend night market.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Night market buzz
Colon Street Cebu City
Best Time
Night market buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cebu City's historic heart, Colon Street is the oldest national road, buzzing with shops, eateries, and a vibrant weekend night market.
"A shopper's paradise and foodie's dream, Colon Street offers endless bargains and delicious street food."
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Don't be afraid to haggle for prices at the shops and market stalls. It's part of the fun!
🍜 Street Food Feast
Indulge in the diverse street food offerings at the night market. Your wallet will thank you!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colon Night Market
Colon Street
A vibrant evening spectacle with endless street food, local crafts, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a budget-friendly foodie adventure.
Shopping Spree
Various shops along Colon Street
Discover a wide array of goods, from clothing to souvenirs. Bargain hard for the best deals in this shopper's paradise.
Local Eateries
Throughout Colon Street
Savor authentic Filipino flavors at budget-friendly restaurants and street food stalls. A true taste of Cebu.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Night Market Buzz
Navigating Colon's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Don't be afraid to haggle for prices at the shops and market stalls. It's part of the fun!
🍜 Street Food Feast
Indulge in the diverse street food offerings at the night market. Your wallet will thank you!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds by arriving before peak hours, especially for the night market.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Don't be afraid to haggle for prices at the shops and market stalls. It's part of the fun!
🍜 Street Food Feast
Indulge in the diverse street food offerings at the night market. Your wallet will thank you!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds by arriving before peak hours, especially for the night market.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. Some vendors offer refreshing drinks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Colon Street is a vibrant commercial hub, lauded for its extensive shopping opportunities and the lively atmosphere of its weekend night market, which offers a fantastic array of affordable street food. Visitors appreciate the bargain prices and the authentic local experience. However, some find the area can be crowded and less clean, with occasional unpleasant odors.
"We try to get a hotel in this area because it is so near to all we want to see . This time we stayed in the Palm Grass heritage hotel as we have on several occasions."
Cornelius O'Connell
"Shopping paradise.. loads to choose from. Bargain to the Max"
Raja Krishnaswamy
"AVOID this STREET 5PM onwards SINULOG FESTIVAL until 19th January
Then every Fri, Sat & Sun
Night Street Market
starts around 5pm"
Chris Lodovice
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colon Street is easily accessible by various modes of transportation in Cebu City. You can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service directly to the street. Jeepneys are also a very common and budget-friendly option, with many routes passing through or near Colon Street. If you're coming from further away, you might take a bus to the Cebu South Bus Terminal and then a short jeepney or taxi ride.
While Colon Street is a bustling area, it's generally safe to visit, especially during the day and early evening. Like any busy urban center, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables secure, and avoid displaying expensive items. The night market can get crowded, so extra caution is recommended.
The best way to explore Colon Street is on foot, especially during the evening when the night market is in full swing. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere, sample street food, and browse the numerous shops. For longer distances, consider using local jeepneys or taxis.
Parking can be challenging in the dense urban environment of Colon Street. Some commercial buildings might offer parking, but it's often limited and can be expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Grab are widely available and a convenient way to get to and from Colon Street, especially if you prefer a direct and comfortable ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance tickets required to visit Colon Street itself. It's a public road and a commercial district. However, specific events or attractions within the area might have their own admission fees.
Colon Street is a public road and is accessible 24/7. However, the shops and restaurants have varying operating hours, typically from morning until late evening. The popular Colon Night Market usually operates from around 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM, especially on weekends.
The Colon Night Market is free to enter. You only pay for the food and items you purchase from the vendors.
Colon Street is a central point for many events in Cebu City, including the Sinulog Festival preparations and rallies. The weekend night market is a regular event. It's always a good idea to check local event listings for any special happenings during your visit.
While there might not be specific tours solely dedicated to Colon Street, many city tours of Cebu often include a stop or drive-by of this historic area, highlighting its significance.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Colon Street is known for its diverse shopping options, ranging from budget-friendly clothing, shoes, and accessories to electronics, school supplies, and local handicrafts. It's a great place for bargain hunting.
The Colon Night Market is a foodie's dream! You can find everything from grilled meats, seafood, and local delicacies like 'isaw' (chicken intestines) to sweet treats and refreshing drinks. Don't miss out on trying various Filipino street food favorites.
Absolutely! Colon Street is renowned for its budget-friendly eateries. You can find local restaurants, carinderias (small eateries), and street food stalls offering delicious meals at very reasonable prices.
For authentic local flavors, check out Snowsheen, Visayan Restaurant, and Dimsum Break, all located in the Colon Street area. The night market also offers a wide variety of local dishes.
Food prices at the Colon Night Market are generally very affordable. You can get a satisfying meal or snack for as little as 100 pesos, making it a great option for budget travelers.
📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere
For vibrant street photography, the late afternoon transitioning into the evening is ideal. The golden hour light can be beautiful, and the night market offers a dynamic and colorful scene.
Colon Street has a lively, bustling, and sometimes chaotic urban atmosphere. It's a hub of activity with a mix of shoppers, vendors, and locals. The night market adds an extra layer of energy and excitement.
While Colon Street is more about the overall street life and commercial buzz, you can find interesting architectural details and the vibrant scenes of the night market to capture. The drone shots showcase its urban sprawl.
Yes, Colon Street is historically significant as the oldest national road in the Philippines. It has been a center of commerce and activity for centuries, reflecting the city's rich past.
You'll encounter a diverse mix of people on Colon Street, including local shoppers, vendors, students, families, and tourists. It's a melting pot of Cebu City life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be mindful of the crowds, especially on weekend evenings. It's advisable to keep a close eye on children and ensure they stay close. While there are many shops, the focus is more on general merchandise and street food rather than specific child-oriented attractions. Consider visiting during weekday afternoons for a slightly less crowded experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Shopping on Colon Street also presents excellent opportunities for budget-conscious travelers. You can find affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. Remember to practice your bargaining skills to get the best possible prices. For accommodation, while there might not be many luxury hotels directly on Colon Street, the surrounding areas often have budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels.
🍜 Food Enthusiasts
Beyond the night market, explore the local eateries recommended by locals, such as Snowsheen and Visayan Restaurant, for a more in-depth taste of Cebuano cuisine. The affordability of the food means you can sample a wide variety without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Cebu: Colon Street's History and Significance
Beyond its historical roots, Colon Street is a dynamic commercial hub. It's a place where the pulse of the city can be felt most strongly, with a dense concentration of shops, businesses, and eateries catering to a wide range of needs and budgets. From everyday essentials to unique finds, Colon Street offers a glimpse into the everyday commerce of Cebuano life.
While it may not boast grand historical monuments in the traditional sense, its enduring presence and continuous activity make it a living piece of history. The street's evolution reflects the city's growth and adaptation, making it a fascinating subject for anyone interested in urban development and cultural heritage.
A Culinary Adventure: Exploring Colon Street's Food Scene
From savory grilled meats and seafood skewers to local favorites like 'isaw' (grilled chicken intestines) and 'balut' (fertilized duck egg), the night market offers a true taste of local flavors. Don't forget to try some of the sweet treats and refreshing beverages available. Many TikTok creators have documented their '100 peso food challenges' here, showcasing just how much delicious food you can get for a small amount.
Beyond the night market, Colon Street is dotted with numerous local eateries and restaurants that offer a more sit-down dining experience. Places like Snowsheen, Visayan Restaurant, and Dimsum Break are frequently recommended by locals and visitors alike for their authentic dishes and reasonable prices. Whether you're craving a full meal or just a quick snack, Colon Street promises a satisfying gastronomic journey.
Navigating the Bustle: Tips for Experiencing Colon Street
When it comes to shopping, bargaining is expected and part of the experience. Don't hesitate to negotiate prices with vendors to get the best deals. This is particularly true for clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
For the night market, arriving a bit earlier than the peak hours can help you avoid the densest crowds and secure a better spot to enjoy the food and atmosphere. Staying hydrated is also important, so consider carrying a water bottle or purchasing refreshing drinks from the numerous vendors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit