Cebu boasts many beautiful things—pristine beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, fresh and yummy seafood, and some of the most historical places in the Philippines. One of these is Fort San Pedro. 

Established in 1565, Fort San Pedro Cebu is the oldest fort in the Philippines and one of the most visited tourist spots in Cebu City. Here you’ll discover the history of the province, the Spanish government, and well-preserved Spanish artifacts. About 14 cannons can still be found in what has become a leisure park today. 

About Fort San Pedro Cebu

fort san pedro cebu

It is one of the most visited tourist spots in Cebu City. Similar to Manila’s Fort Santiago, it served as a military defense structure during the 17th century. Spanish conqueror Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, who founded the earliest settlement in Cebu, had the initiative to build this fort. 

What’s inside this blog?

Fort San Pedro History

Fort San Pedro cebu

Photo source: Wikimedia Commons

Fort San Pedro Cebu was built by the Spaniards under the command of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, the first Governor-General of the Philippines. The original Cebu fort built right after the arrival of Legazpi was made of wood. It was then replaced in the 17th century with a stone fort to drive Muslim raiders away.

At the end of the 19th century during the Philippine Revolution, the fort was attacked and taken by the Filipino Revolutionaries who used it as a stronghold.

Another interesting fact about the fort is that its shape is triangular: two sides facing the sea and the third side facing the land. The two sides facing the sea were protected with cannons and the front with a strong fence made of wood. 

Fort San Pedro Address

The fort is located in A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City. Check the map below to be guided.

How to Get There

Ride any jeep bound for Plaza Independencia, or MyBus from SM City Cebu going to Talisay. Alight at the nearest point from the SRP’s opening road. Walk towards Plaza Independencia, just adjacent to Malacanang sa Sugbo.

If you want a faster and hassle-free commute to the fort, book a Grab or ride a taxi instead.

Rates and Other Information in Visiting

Fort San Pedro Cebu entrance fee: PHP 30/person (20% discount for Students/Senior Citizens/PWDs)

Fort San Pedro opening hours: 8am to 7pm

Tourist Spots Nearby

  • Magellan’s Cross & Basilica del Santo Niño
  • 8 Ancestral and Museum Houses in Cebu City
  • SM City Cebu
  • SM Seaside City Cebu
  • Fuente Osmeña Circle & Crown Regency Sky Adventure 

Must-read: Cebu Itinerary Guide: Best Places to Go & Must-Try Activities

Where to Eat Near Fort San Pedro

Azotea Sports Bar & Restaurant

Azotea Sports Bar and Restaurant fort san pedro cebu

Photo credits to Azotea Sports Bar and Restaurant

Azotea Sports Bar & Restaurant is a perfect place to have a chill drink with a view. It’s near the fort so in case your tour ends a little late, go straight here.

Address: JSU – PSU Mariners Court – Cebu, Legaspi Ext., Cebu City

Operation hours: 4pm to 12am

Budget: PHP 200

KKD STK + BBQ

KKD STK + BBQ cebu

Photo credits to KKD STK + BBQ

Another good place to eat near the fort is KKD STK + BBQ. they serve grilled meat and seafood to delight you after a tiring trip.

Address: M. J. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City

Operation hours: 11am to 10pm

Budget: PHP 200

Cebu’s Original Lechon Belly

Cebu's Original Lechon Belly

Photo credits to CEBU’S ORIGINAL LECHON BELLY (the Boneless Lechon)

Oh your trip to Cebu isn’t complete without trying the boneless lechon at Cebu’s Original Lechon Belly. It’s a popular restaurant near the fort and has been visited by several Filipino personalities.

Address: P Burgos St, P. Burgos Street, Cebu City

Operation hours: 8am to 8pm

Budget: PHP 1,900 good for 15 persons

Where to stay

ZEN Rooms Alicia Tower Cebu

ZEN Rooms Alicia Tower Cebu temple of leah

Address: Gov. M. Cuenca Ave., Banilad, Cebu City

Amenities: 24h Front Desk, Parking, Meeting Room (Extra Cost), Fitness Center, Hotel Restaurant, Baggage Storage, Shared Lounge / TV Area, Laundry (Extra Cost), Dry Cleaning (Extra Cost), Designated Smoking Area, 24h Security, Bottled Water, Swimming Pool, Elevator, Air Conditioning, Hot Shower, Free WiFi

Price from PHP 1,100/night

Book now

ZEN Premium Banilad

ZEN Premium Banilad cebu temple of leah

Address: Gov. M. Cuenca Ave., Banilad, Cebu City

Amenities: 24h Front Desk, 24h Room Service, Parking, Meeting Room, Hotel Spa, Fitness Center, Hotel Restaurant, Wheelchair Access, Ironing Facilities, Airport Shuttle (Extra Cost), Elevator, Concierge, Tour Desk, Baggage Storage, Shared Lounge / TV Area, 24h Security, Designated Smoking Area, Laundry, Swimming Pool, Air Conditioning, Hot Shower, Free WiFi

Price from PHP 1,500/night

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Fort

Q: When is Fort San Pedro open?

A: It is open from 8am to 7pm.

Q: Do you need to book in advance to visit Fort San Pedro?

A: While you can walk-in at the fort, we recommend booking your tours ahead of time to secure your spot.

Q: How much is Fort San Pedro entrance fee 2021? 

A: As of writing, the entrance fee is PHP 30/person (20% discount for Students/Senior Citizens/PWDs)

Q: What is the oldest fort in the Philippines?

A: Fort San Pedro is considered the oldest fort in the Philippines. It was established in 1565 under the Spanish conqueror and the Philippines’ first Governor-General Miguel Lopez de Legazpi.

Q: Is Fort San Pedro open for weddings?

A: Yes, you can book a Fort San Pedro Cebu wedding. It’s a great venue for a garden wedding.  

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