Batangas Travel Guide
This comprehensive travel guide provides a detailed overview of Batangas, including cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations and excursions.
- Introduction to Batangas
- List of Places to Visit in Batangas
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Batangas
- Best Things to Do in Batangas: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Batangas
- Food and Drink Scene of Batangas
- Where to Stay in Batangas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Batangas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Batangas
- Best Time to Visit Batangas
- Do’s and Don’ts of Batangas
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Batangas: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Batangas
- Where to Go Next from Batangas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Batangas
Batangas is a stunning province in Calabarzon, situated in the southern part of Luzon Island, Philippines. The Batangueños, the local people of Batangas, are known for their warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. The province is famous for its stunning beaches, stunning landscapes, adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, activities, accommodations, and more that Batangas has to offer.
List of Places to Visit in Batangas
With its rich history, stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters, Batangas is a tourist paradise that offers a range of attractions to explore. Below are some of the must-visit places in Batangas:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places
- Museo nina Leon at Galicano Apacible
- Taal Heritage Town
- Basilica of St. Martin de Tours
- Mabini Shrine
- Apolinario Mabini Statue
- Casa Villavicencio
Natural Attractions of Batangas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Mt. Maculot
- Taal Volcano
- Balayan Bay
- Calatagan Beach
- Fortune Island
- Malabrigo Beach
- Masasa Beach
- Tingloy Island
- Laiya Beach
- Verde Island Passage
Hiking/Biking Routes of Batangas
Batangas offers some of the best opportunities for hiking and biking. Below are some of the must-try routes:
- Taal Heritage Town bike tour
- Batangas City River Mouth bike tour
- Dong Juan Peak hike and bike trail
- Mt. Malarayat downhill bike trail
- Mt. Batulao day hike
Best Things to Do in Batangas: Activities and Tours
Batangas offers a plethora of activities and tours that cater to every taste. Here are some of the best things to do in Batangas:
- Scuba diving and snorkeling
- Island Hopping
- Bar Hopping
- Food Tours
- Surfing
- Beach volleyball
- Wakeboarding
- Mountain biking
- Hiking
Week-Long Itinerary for Batangas
If you plan on staying in Batangas for a week, here is an itinerary that covers all the must-visit attractions and activities:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore Taal Heritage Town, Basilica of St. Martin de Tours and Museo nina Leon at Galicano Apacible |
| Day 2 | Hike to Mt. Maculot or Mt. Batulao |
| Day 3 | Go sightseeing in Batangas City, visit Mabini Shrine, Apolinario Mabini Statue and Casa Villavicencio |
| Day 4 | Island hopping tour to Sepoc Beach or Fortune Island |
| Day 5 | Scuba diving or snorkeling at Verde Island Passage |
| Day 6 | Surfing at Laiya Beach or Calatagan Beach |
| Day 7 | Relax at a beach resort, do a food tour around Batangas City, and go bar hopping |
Food and Drink Scene of Batangas
The food scene in Batangas is a fusion of Filipino, Chinese, and Spanish cuisine, with local delicacies that include:
Must-Try Dishes
- Bulalo
- Lomi
- Adobo sa Dilaw
- Tapang Taal
- Pinangat
- Sinaing na Tulingan
- Suman sa Lihiya
Local Beverages
- Barako Coffee
- Lambanog
- Coconut Wine
Where to Stay in Batangas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Batangas offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Below are some of the best places to stay in Batangas:
- Lima Park Hotel
- Pico Sands Hotel
- Club Punta Fuego
- The Suites at Calle Aranda
- Batangas Country Club
What to Buy in Batangas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
No trip is complete without bringing home some souvenirs. Batangas is known for its handicrafts and local products, such as:
- Barako Coffee
- Lanzones
- Tapa
- Balisong (Butterfly Knife)
- Hand-woven Rattan Bags
Local Culture and Customs of Batangas
Batangas has a rich cultural heritage, and its people are known to be the friendliest in the Philippines. It is customary to greet people with a smile and a handshake, and guests are always welcome with open arms. The locals are also known for their love of music and dance, with traditional folk music often accompanied by the rondalla, a group of instruments that includes the bandurria, guitar, laúd, and octavina.
Best Time to Visit Batangas
The best time to visit Batangas is between November and February, during the dry season. The temperatures are pleasant, and there is little chance of rain. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the off-season months from May to October.
Do’s and Don’ts of Batangas
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Try out local food and drinks
- Be polite and courteous to the locals
Don’t:
- Wear clothing that is too revealing or provocative
- Touch or pick anything from protected national parks
- Litter the environment
Safety and Health
Safety in Batangas
Batangas is a relatively safe place to visit, with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions while traveling, such as avoiding secluded areas during the night, keeping your valuables safe, and staying alert.
Health in Batangas
While Batangas is generally a healthy place to visit, it is advisable to take necessary precautions to avoid any health risks, such as drinking bottled water, wearing sunscreen, and taking mosquito repellent with you.
Getting to Batangas: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Batangas
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport
- Mactan-Cebu International Airport
- Puerto Princesa International Airport
Bus Stations Near Batangas
- DLTBCo Bus Terminal
- Jam Liner Bus Terminal
- Tritran Bus Terminal
Other Options
- Private Car
- Motorbike Rental
- Jeepney
How to Get Around in Batangas
The best way to get around Batangas is by hiring a car or taking public transportation, such as jeepneys or tricycles. Taxis and buses are also available.
Where to Go Next from Batangas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Batangas is a hub for exploring other nearby destinations, such as:
- Puerto Galera
- Anilao
- Tagaytay
- Nasugbu
- Laiya
Conclusion
Batangas is a magnificent destination that offers something for everyone. With its stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, rich culture, mouth-watering food, and adventurous activities, Batangas is guaranteed to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip now and discover the beauty of Batangas for yourself.
