Destinations

Tagaytay, Cavite: Great Views, Cooler Weather and a Bit Too Much Commercialisation

Tagaytay is one of those places I’ve visited several times over the years, usually for a day trip from Manila or while passing through on the way somewhere else.

Tagaytay is in Cavite in the Calabarzon region, about two hours south of Manila by road. Most people drive or take a bus. It sits roughly 600 metres above sea level, so it’s noticeably cooler than the capital. It’s also got a bit of character about it, with some interesting buildings, excellent restaurants and a relaxed, almost community feel in certain areas.

Of course, the main attraction is the spectacular view across Taal Lake towards Taal Volcano. That’s certainly been my main reason for visiting over the years.

I reckon Tagaytay is well worth a visit, although it’s changed a hell of a lot since I first started going there around 2008. It’s become much more commercialised, and some of the places I used to enjoy barely resemble what they once were.

Best Time to Visit Tagaytay

I’d recommend visiting between March and May, when the weather is hottest in Manila. Being around 600 metres above sea level, Tagaytay is noticeably cooler, making it a great place to escape the heat.

The rainy season, particularly July to September, is less ideal because clouds, mist and heavy rain can obscure the views of Taal Volcano.

I’d also recommend visiting during the week if possible, as weekends can get pretty crowded with people heading down from Manila.

Things to Do in Tagaytay

Enjoy the Views of Taal Volcano

For me, this is the main reason to visit Tagaytay. The views across Taal Lake towards the volcano are absolutely sensational, especially on a clear day.

I’ve actually taken a boat across Taal Lake and visited the volcano a couple of times, although I’ll cover those experiences separately on my Taal Volcano page.

One thing that disappointed me on my most recent visit was just how much the old viewing areas had changed.

There used to be a Starbucks overlooking the volcano, with an open car park and a little path leading to a grassy area where you could simply wander over and enjoy the view. It was fantastic.

When I went back, the whole area had been fenced off, with more restaurants and commercial developments. I actually drove past it a couple of times because I barely recognised the place.

It felt like you now had to buy something just to enjoy a view that used to be freely accessible. That’s progress, I suppose, although I’m not convinced it’s always for the better.

Important: Although I’ve previously visited Volcano Island, access has been restricted because of volcanic hazards. Don’t assume the old crater treks are still available. Check the latest PHIVOLCS advice before planning any lake activities.

Check Out the Local Attractions

People’s Park in the Sky

A hilltop viewpoint with panoramic views of Tagaytay and the surrounding countryside.

Tagaytay Picnic Grove

A popular family destination with picnic areas, viewpoints and outdoor activities.

Sky Ranch Tagaytay

An amusement park with rides, including a large Ferris wheel overlooking the surrounding area.

Sonya’s Garden

A garden restaurant and retreat in nearby Alfonso, popular for its peaceful setting.

I’ve visited some of the parks and attractions around Tagaytay with the family over the years. Most of my visits have been fairly simple: drive down, enjoy lunch, take in the scenery, grab a few photos and head home.

Where to Eat in Tagaytay

One thing Tagaytay does particularly well is restaurants. I’ve enjoyed some excellent meals there over the years, and a couple of places really stand out.

Antonio’s Restaurant

Antonio’s Restaurant is one of my favourite restaurants in the Philippines.

It’s tucked away from the main road in a beautiful, leafy setting, with an impressive old-style building and a really unique atmosphere.

The food is absolutely sensational, although it’s the whole experience that makes the place special. The surroundings, the building, the service and the food all come together beautifully.

I’ve eaten there a few times and would happily recommend it to anyone looking for somewhere special. It’s worth making a reservation, particularly if you’re planning a weekend visit.

Carlo’s Pizza

I used to love going to Carlo’s Pizza, which had a fantastic viewing deck overlooking Taal Volcano.

You could sit there with a wood-fired-style pizza and a cold beer, looking out across the lake. What more could you want?

The restaurant I remember appears to have moved away from its old position, closer to the main road, so the experience isn’t quite the same anymore. I haven’t eaten at the newer location, so I can’t comment on whether the food is still as good, but I’ve got some great memories of the original place.

Taal Vista Hotel

On my most recent visit, I took my cousin and her family to Taal Vista Hotel. We were looking for somewhere to have lunch with a decent view of the volcano, and this turned out to be a great choice.

We enjoyed some excellent food and a few cocktails before heading out into the gardens overlooking the volcano to take photos and admire the scenery.

It’s a great setting, and if you’re looking for somewhere to relax over lunch while enjoying the views, I’d certainly recommend it.

What About Tagaytay Bulalo?

Tagaytay is also famous for bulalo, a hearty Filipino beef shank and bone marrow soup.

I haven’t actually tried it in Tagaytay myself, although I remember attending a company Christmas party where some of the Filipino staff decided to drive down from Manila at about 10 o’clock at night just to get some. I couldn’t believe it!

That probably tells you something about how seriously the locals take their bulalo.

How Many Days Do You Need in Tagaytay?

For most visitors, a day trip from Manila is perfectly fine.

I’ve done it plenty of times. Leave reasonably early, enjoy lunch somewhere overlooking Taal Volcano, check out a couple of attractions and head back to Manila late in the afternoon.

Having said that, I wouldn’t mind spending a night or two there myself. There are some beautiful hotels and resorts overlooking the lake, and I reckon it would be pretty relaxing to spend a couple of days enjoying the cooler weather, good food and scenery without having to worry about driving home.

Where to Stay in Tagaytay

Although I’ve visited Tagaytay on numerous occasions, I’ve never actually stayed overnight.

If I were booking somewhere, I’d probably look for accommodation along the ridge with views across Taal Lake and the volcano. There are some impressive hotels and resorts around Tagaytay, including properties with outdoor swimming pools overlooking the volcano. For something a little quieter, I’d also consider staying away from the busiest sections of the main road.

Personally, I’d be looking for somewhere with a nice balcony, a decent restaurant and a great view. That’s really what Tagaytay is all about for me.

How to Get to Tagaytay

Tagaytay is in Cavite province, approximately 60 to 70 kilometres south of central Manila, depending on your starting point and route.

• Driving from Manila: I’ve always driven, and I’d generally allow around two to two and a half hours from Makati, although it can take longer during busy periods. One popular route is via the South Luzon Expressway, exiting towards Santa Rosa and continuing uphill to Tagaytay. Alternatively, you can travel through Cavite via Aguinaldo Highway.
• By bus: You can catch Tagaytay-bound or Nasugbu-bound buses from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), with services passing through Tagaytay. Allow approximately two to three hours depending on traffic. Buses generally stop around Olivarez or Tagaytay Rotonda, where you can arrange local transport to your destination.

Check current routes and schedules before you go. If you’re planning to visit several restaurants and attractions, having your own vehicle makes getting around considerably easier.

Good to Know Before You Go

• Weekends and public holidays can get extremely busy, especially along the main ridge road.
• Visit during the week for lighter traffic and a more relaxed experience.
• Check the weather before travelling if seeing Taal Volcano is your main priority.
• Some of the best volcano viewpoints are now attached to commercial establishments.
• Bring a light jacket during the cooler months, particularly for late afternoons and evenings.

Dezza’s Tip

If you’re visiting Manila and have a spare day, I’d definitely recommend heading down to Tagaytay to see Taal Volcano. It’s a spectacular sight, and there are some excellent restaurants where you can sit back, enjoy a meal and take in the scenery.

If you’re living in Manila, I’d also recommend Antonio’s Restaurant for a special lunch or dinner. It’s one of my favourite places to eat.

Just try to avoid the weekends if you can. Tagaytay has become very commercialised over the years, and the traffic can be a massive inconvenience.

Even so, I still reckon it’s well worth the trip.

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