Metro Batangas Travel Guide
Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, getting around, and more in this travel guide for Metro Batangas.
- Introduction to Metro Batangas
- List of Places to Visit in Metro Batangas
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Metro Batangas
- Best Things to Do in Metro Batangas: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Metro Batangas
- Food and Drink Scene of Metro Batangas
- Where to Stay in Metro Batangas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Metro Batangas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Metro Batangas
- Best Time to Visit Metro Batangas
- Do’s and Don’ts of Metro Batangas
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Metro Batangas: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Metro Batangas
- Where to Go Next from Metro Batangas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Metro Batangas
Metro Batangas is located in the Calabarzon region in Luzon, Philippines. It is the regional center of the province of Batangas and is considered as one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. Metro Batangas offers a perfect blend of modernity and history, where visitors can enjoy its bustling city life and explore its cultural heritage at the same time.
List of Places to Visit in Metro Batangas
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Taal Heritage Village: A well-preserved Spanish colonial town that features ancestral houses, museums, and a picturesque view of Taal Volcano.
- Casa Segunda: A 19th-century ancestral house that belonged to the family of Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of the Philippines.
- Basilica of St. Martin de Tours: The largest church in Asia where the oldest and biggest bell in Asia, the Maria Bell, can be found.
- Museo ng Batangas: A museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Batangas, including its pre-colonial roots, Spanish colonial era, and the revolution against the Americans.
Natural Attractions of Metro Batangas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Taal Volcano: An active volcano located in the middle of Taal Lake. Visitors can hike to its crater or take a boat ride around the lake.
- Mt. Maculot: A popular hiking destination that offers a breathtaking view of Taal Lake and the surrounding mountains.
- Malabrigo Point: A rocky beach that is ideal for swimming and surfing. It also has a lighthouse that gives a stunning view of the coastline.
- Calatagan Beach: A long stretch of white sand beach that is perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Pico de Loro: A towering mountain that offers a challenging climb and a panoramic view of Batangas.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Metro Batangas
- Mt. Batulao: A long ridgeline that features rolling hills and a picturesque view of the coast and surrounding mountains.
- Mt. Daguldol: A challenging hike that leads to an undeveloped beach and a stunning view of the sea.
- Malarayat Range: A trail that offers a forested path and a scenic view of Batangas City.
- Nasugbu-Tagaytay Loop: A popular biking route that passes through rolling hills, scenic towns, and lush forests.
Best Things to Do in Metro Batangas: Activities and Tours
- Island Hopping: Experience the stunning views and pristine beaches of island hopping in Batangas.
- Scuba Diving: Dive in to discover the diverse marine life and flourishing coral reefs of Batangas.
- Heritage Tour: Explore Batangas’ rich cultural heritage by taking a tour of its ancestral houses, museums, and historical landmarks.
- Food Trip: Savor the different flavors of Batangas by trying its local delicacies such as lomi, bulalo, and kapeng barako.
Week-Long Itinerary for Metro Batangas
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Taal Heritage Village and trek Taal Volcano |
| 2 | Hike Mt. Maculot and have a swim at Malabrigo Point |
| 3 | Island hopping and scuba diving in Anilao |
| 4 | Explore the museums and historical landmarks of Batangas City |
| 5 | Bike Nasugbu-Tagaytay Loop |
| 6 | Relax at Calatagan Beach and have a seafood feast |
| 7 | Climb to the peak of Pico de Loro |
Food and Drink Scene of Metro Batangas
Must-Try Dishes
- Batangas Lomi: A hearty noodle soup with egg, meat, and vegetables.
- Batangas Bulalo: A beef shank soup with vegetables that is best eaten with rice.
- Kapeng Barako: A strong, aromatic coffee that is locally produced in Batangas.
Local Beverages
- Lambanog: A traditional Filipino alcoholic drink made from fermented coconut sap.
- Calamansi Juice: A refreshing beverage made from fresh calamansi fruits.
Where to Stay in Metro Batangas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Lima Park Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Malvar, Batangas that features a spa, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
- The Farm at San Benito: A wellness resort in Lipa City that offers a unique experience of a health farm and a luxury spa.
- Microtel by Wyndham Sto. Tomas Batangas: A budget-friendly, eco-friendly, and pet-friendly hotel that is perfect for families and business travelers.
What to Buy in Metro Batangas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Barong Tagalog: A traditional Filipino formal wear that is made of pineapple or silk fiber.
- Balisong: A folding pocket knife that is famous in Batangas.
- Kapeng Barako: A strong, aromatic coffee that is locally produced in Batangas.
Local Culture and Customs of Metro Batangas
Batangueños are known for their rich culture and colorful traditions that reflect their strong connection to history and nature. One of the most popular customs in Batangas is the Karipasan Festival, a marathon race that is held every year on January 16 to celebrate the feast of St. Sebastian.
Best Time to Visit Metro Batangas
The best time to visit Metro Batangas is during the dry season from November to April, where the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. However, tourists should take note that this is also the peak season, so expect higher rates and larger crowds.
Do’s and Don’ts of Metro Batangas
Do:
- Respect the local customs and traditions of Batangueños.
- Try the local delicacies such as lomi, bulalo, and kapeng barako.
- Bargain when shopping at the markets and street vendors.
Don’t:
- Litter in the natural attractions and historical landmarks of Batangas.
- Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting churches and other religious sites.
- Disrespect the locals and their culture.
Safety and Health
Safety in Metro Batangas
Metro Batangas is generally safe for tourists, but they should still be cautious and vigilant of their surroundings. It is advisable to carry only enough cash and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or items that can attract thieves.
Health in Metro Batangas
Tourists should be wary of the tropical diseases such as dengue fever and malaria that are prevalent in the Philippines. It is advisable to take necessary precautionary measures such as getting vaccinated and using mosquito repellent.
Getting to Metro Batangas: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Metro Batangas
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport: The primary international gateway to the Philippines, located in Manila.
- Batangas City Domestic Airport: A domestic airport located in Batangas City.
Bus Stations Near Metro Batangas
- Jam Bus Terminal: Located in Cubao, Quezon City, offers buses to Batangas City, and other destinations in Southern Luzon.
- Grand Terminal: A bus terminal located in Balibago, Santa Rosa, Laguna, offers buses to Batangas City and Cavite.
Other Options
- Private Car: A convenient option for travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace.
- Rent-A-Van: Recommended for large groups who want to travel together and have a hassle-free transportation.
How to Get Around in Metro Batangas
The most convenient and affordable way to get around Metro Batangas is by jeepney, tricycle, or multicab. Taxi and Grab cars are also available, but they are more expensive. It is also possible to explore the city on foot or by renting a bike or a motorbike.
Where to Go Next from Metro Batangas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Mindoro Island: A nearby province that boasts stunning beaches, hidden waterfalls, and unspoiled natural attractions.
- Tagaytay City: A popular destination that offers a cool climate, scenic views, and a wide range of restaurants and attractions.
- Puerto Galera: A beach resort town that is famous for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
Conclusion
Metro Batangas is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the rich culture, history, and natural attractions of the Philippines. From hiking to its picturesque mountains, indulging in its delightful cuisine, or discovering its traditional arts and crafts, Metro Batangas offers endless possibilities for an unforgettable trip.
