Batangas City, Philippines
Batangas City boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage and is home to stunning natural attractions like the Taal Volcano and the beaches of Matabungkay and Laiya.
Trip to Batangas City, Philippines
Day 1: Arrival
Welcome to Batangas City, Philippines! Upon arrival, you can check into your hotel and take the rest of the day for relaxation. Batangas City is known for its beaches, so why not spend the day basking under the sun and taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Batangas City is also known as the industrial port city of Calabarzon. The city has a rich history and a vibrant culture, so spend the evening exploring the town square where you can grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. You can also check out the Museo ng Batangas to learn about the city’s history and heritage.
Day 2: Taal Volcano Trek
Today, you will take an exciting trek to Taal Volcano, which is situated in the middle of Taal Lake. Taal Volcano is one of the smallest volcanoes in the world, and it is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of lush greenery and crystal-clear blue waters. The trek is not known to be physically demanding, making it perfect for people of all ages. Once you reach the peak, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire Taal Lake, which is a stunning sight to behold. The trek is not only an exhilarating experience, but it also offers a great opportunity to admire the natural beauty of Batangas City.
Day 3: Scuba Diving
Batangas City is known for its beautiful beaches, and it’s also a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Today, you will have the opportunity to explore the underwater world with a scuba diving trip. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a novice, there are several incredible diving spots to explore. You can discover the colorful coral reefs and interact with an array of tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. You can choose from several diving spots throughout Batangas City depending on your experience level, including Anilao, Sombrero Island, and Sepok Wall.
Day 4: Beach Hopping
Today, you’ll spend the day exploring some of the finest beaches in Batangas City. Known for its stunning white sand beaches, there are plenty of options to choose from that offer a range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and jet skiing. Some of the beaches that are worth visiting are Laiya Beach, Nasugbu Beach, and Malabrigo Beach. Spend your day relaxing on the beaches or taking part in some of the water sports activities available.
Day 5: Taal Heritage Town Tour
Today you will visit the Taal Heritage Town, located just thirty minutes away from Batangas City. The town is a treasure trove of well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture from the 19th century, featuring grand old houses and historic buildings. These buildings are all made of wood, which was the primary material used in constructing them in those times. A beautifully crafted ancestral house is owned by the Villavicencio family, which has now been transformed into the Casa Villavicencio Heritage House. This house is now a museum, which many people visit to learn about the history of the old town. Other places to visit include Galleria Taal and Balisong Making.
Day 6: Lipa City Adventure
Lipa City is just a 30-minute drive from Batangas City and is worth a visit. The city is known for its coffee farms, old buildings, and beautiful parks. Your first stop should be the San Sebastian Cathedral, which is a beautiful old church that has stood in the city for more than two centuries. You can also visit the Marian Orchard, where you can take the day to relax and meditate by visiting the temple and other religious sites. You can also go to the Malvar Museum to learn about Philippine history and a few miles further out, visit the Twin Falls.
Day 7: Departure
On your last day, check out from your hotel and spend some time shopping for souvenirs and gifts to take home with you. Visit the Batangas City Market where you will find handmade crafts, shell jewelry, and other locally-made products. You can also visit any of the malls within the city, including SM City Batangas and Xentro Mall Batangas for some high-end shopping. Head back to Manila via the Batangas City Port where you can take a ferry or a bus.