Tagaytay

Tagaytay is known as a viewing point of Taal Volcano and Lake, a scenery highly coveted for its therapeutic wonder- just looking at it makes you feel relaxed and inspired. To get closer to the volcano, Tagaytay also serves as a jump-off point to Talisay Bay, where boats wait to take visitors to the volcano island.

Tagaytay’s cool climate also attracts every city-dweller, especially during summer. During the yuletide season, it is the closest Filipinos can get to a “white Christmas”- with chilly weather but without snow. It is also the perfect time to savor a bowl of the famous bulalo (beef shank soup) and enjoy activities with the family.

Despite being a very familiar place, no visit to Tagaytay is ever the same. The multitude of gastronomic gems, unique hotels, and BnBs, shops, parks, and attractions, give you something new to look forward to every time.

This holiday season, we revisit Tagaytay and rediscover the best of the Philippines’ second summer capital.

Travel Tips

Tagaytay is an easy one to two-hour drive from Metro Manila via SLEX and Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Road. There are also many public transportation options, the most common of which is the bus.

There are buses bound for Tagaytay or Nasugbu/Balayan/Lemery in Cubao, Buendia, Makati, and Pasay that cost Php 80 to Php 100. These buses take Cavitex and Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, with a travel time of 2 to 3 hours.

Air-conditioned vans are also available in front of EGI Mall, near LRT Gil Puyat Station, with the fare amounting to Php 200.

To get around Tagaytay by public transport, you can take the jeepney or Tagaytay’s premium version of the tricycle- bukyo, which is similar to Thailand’s tuk tuk. You can hail a bukyo for regular (shared) or special trips for a minimum fare of Php 30.

Bukyo is ideal for farther spots like Picnic Grove and People’s Park.