Taal lake and volcano
Guides and Itineraries,  Philippines

17+ BEST Tagaytay Tourist Spots + Things to Do

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Tagaytay is one of the best day trips from Manila any time of the year. Nestled amidst the lush mountains of the Philippines, this captivating highland retreat is known for its cool climate, panoramic views of Taal Volcano and its crater lake, numerous restaurants offering local delicacies such as bulalo, and hotels and bed-and-breakfasts with a view of the volcanic lake. Whether you’re visiting here for a day or longer, this article will help you navigate to the best Tagaytay tourist spots and activities.

Note: Taal Volcano is an active volcano. In the past years, it has shown active volcanic activity including spewing ash and smoke. As of this writing in 2023, it is under Alert Level 1 and tourists should continuously monitor its alert level for a possibility of volcanic eruption.

For an easy, hassle-free tour covering the best Tagaytay tourist attractions, you can click here to book a Tagaytay day tour.

1. See Taal Volcano and Lake

Taal Volcano in Tagaytay
View from Taal Vista Hotel.

One of the top things to do in Tagaytay is admiring the view of Taal Volcano and its crater lake.

Taal Volcano is one of the world’s smallest volcanoes. The volcano itself is a complex structure consisting of multiple craters and cones. At the center of the main crater, there is a serene emerald-colored lake known as the “Crater Lake.” Within this lake, another small volcanic island, called Vulcan Point, emerges. This island is often described as the world’s largest volcano within a lake, within a volcano, making Taal Volcano a geological marvel.

To reach the volcano, you can take a boat ride across Taal Lake and then ride a horse or hike for around 45 minutes across to the crater rim. The hike is not overly challenging, but it can be steep and rocky in certain sections. Once at the crater rim, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the crater land and its surrounding.

For those who want to admire the volcano at a safe place, there are numerous viewpoints, restaurants and cafes, and hotels and resorts (see Taal Vista Hotel) offering a majestic view of Taal Volcano. It is also possible to take a boat tour around the lake for a different perspective.

2. Sky Ranch

Sky Ranch Tagaytay - one of the must-see Tagaytay tourist attractions
Ferris wheel in the Sky Ranch.

Sky Ranch is one of the most popular Tagaytay tourist spots especially for families. This amusement park is known for its thrilling ride and attractions. Situated atop a hill, Sky Ranch offers visitors panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Taal Volcano and Taal Lake.

One of the park’s main attractions is the Sky Eye, a towering ferris wheel that stands at around 63 meters (207 feet) tall. Taking a ride on the Sky Eye offers an exhilarating experience while providing breathtaking views of Tagaytay’s picturesque beauty.

In addition to the Sky Eye, Sky Ranch features a variety of rides and activities suitable for visitors of all ages. From roller coasters and bumper cars to a drop tower and a Viking ship, there is something to cater to every level of thrill-seeker. The park also offers family-friendly attractions such as a carousel, a mini train, and a mini Ferris wheel for younger visitors to enjoy.

Apart from the rides, Sky Ranch boasts an array of food stalls and restaurants, ensuring that visitors can satisfy their hunger and indulge in local delicacies while exploring the park. Souvenir shops are also available, allowing visitors to take home a memento of their visit.

3. Picnic Grove

Picnic Grove is another one of the most popular attractions in Tagaytay. It is usually visited by families looking for a nice yet budget-friendly place to enjoy a picnic while enjoying the stunning views of Taal Lake and Volcano.

The main attraction of Picnic Grove is its spacious picnic grounds, where families and friends can enjoy outdoor activities, have picnics, and relax amidst the cool climate and refreshing ambiance. There are shaded huts and cottages available for rent, which provides a comfortable space for you to unwind and enjoy your food.

Additionally, you can also try outdoor adventures including ziplining, cable car, and horseback riding.

The highlight of Picnic Grove is its view deck, which offers a panoramic vista of Taal Lake and Volcano. It’s worth paying the admission fee for this view alone.

Overall, Picnic Grove is one of the best places to visit in Tagaytay for families and nature enthusiasts.

4. People’s Park in the Sky

Previously known as Palace in the Sky, People’s Park in the Sky is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tagaytay. Perched on Mount Gonzales, it offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, and the lush landscapes of Cavite and Batangas.

Originally intended to be a grand presidential mansion during the Marcos era, the construction was never completed, and the property was later transformed into a public park. Despite its unfinished state, People’s Park in the Sky has become a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike.

Here, you are greeted by an expansive viewing deck where you can take in the natural beauty of the Taal region. You can also explore the remnants of the unfinished mansion and take a leisurely stroll across the landscaped gardens, picnic areas, and shaded pathways. There are food stalls and souvenir shops scattered throughout the park, providing refreshments and keepsakes for visitors.

Many visitors choose to visit People’s Park in the Sky in the early morning or sunset for its beautiful sky views.

5. Eat bulalo

Klara's Bulalo Kafe - bulalo
Special bulalo.

Eating bulalo is one of the must-do activities in Tagaytay. This beef soup is made with tender beef shanks and bone marrow and is perfect to eat during the rainy season or when you’re in a cool area like Tagaytay.

There are many restaurants in Tagaytay offering bulalo. Mahogany Beef Market is a local market that offers affordable bulalo, often with unlimited rice and condiments. Other popular restaurants include Leslie’s, Bulalo Capital, and the newly opened Klara’s Bulalo Cafe. You might also want to visit a buffet like D’ Banquet where you can enjoy bulalo and other local dishes at an affordable price.

6. Have a cup of hot tsokolate

Drinks at Bag of Beans.

Aside from its local specialties including bulalo and crispy tawilis, Tagaytay is also famous for their hot tsokolate batirol. Tsokolate batirol is a traditional Filipino hot chocolate beverage made from tablea, which are disks of pure cacao. The name “batirol” refers to the traditional wooden tool used to froth the hot chocolate mixture. This delicious concoction is perfect for the cool weather in Tagaytay!

Some of the best places you can enjoy hot tsokolate are Bag of Beans, Breakfast at Antonio’s, and Tsokolateria.

7. Sonya’s Garden

Sonya’s Garden is one of the most established Tagaytay tourist spots, having been featured in various shows and magazines. This bed-and-breakfast and restaurant is located in Alfonso, which is near Tagaytay. It is known for its delectable organic cuisine, lush gardens, and rustic ambiance.

One of the main attractions at Sonya’s Garden is its restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant serves a fixed menu of fresh and organic dishes including vegetables and edible flowers picked from their greenhouses. The restaurant is inspired by the farm-to-table concept.

Sonya’s Garden also offers a spa where guests can indulge in massages and spa treatments amidst the peaceful surroundings.

For those looking to extend their stay, Sonya’s Garden provides comfortable and charming accommodations. The rooms and cottages are designed with a rustic and cozy aesthetic, providing a relaxing retreat from the stresses of the city.

Additionally, Sonya’s Garden has a gift shop where visitors can purchase organic products, handmade crafts, and souvenirs to take home.

Sonya’s Garden is a beloved destination in Tagaytay for those seeking an enchanting experience. Its rates are on the high end, but if you are willing to splurge especially for special occasions, then indeed it is worth visiting this attraction.

8. Caleruega Church

Caleruega Church (also known officially as the Transfiguration Chapel) is a beautiful church nestled amidst the lush and rolling hills of Batulao, just a few-minute drive from Tagaytay town proper.

The architecture of Caleruega Church is inspired by Spanish, Moorish, and Filipino architecture, with its stone walls, wooden accents, and graceful arches. The church boasts a simple yet elegant interior, adorned with religious artwork, stained glass windows, and a prominent crucifix.

It was built in the 1990s as a venue for prayer and meditation. Today, it is one of the top tourist attractions in Tagaytay, with various areas you can explore including the St. Dominic de Guzman Hall, the hanging bridge, and the meditation garden. The chapel’s elevated location provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Whether you visit for a religious ceremony, a wedding, or simply to enjoy the peaceful ambiance, Caleruega Church offers a tranquil and awe-inspiring experience. It is a place where visitors can find solace, appreciate the beauty of nature, and reconnect with their spirituality in the serene surroundings of Tagaytay.

9. Puzzle Mansion

Puzzle Mansion Tagaytay
(Photo by Puzzle Mansion)

If you’re looking for fun places to visit in Tagaytay, then check out Puzzle Mansion. This place is the Guinness World Record holder for the largest collection of jigsaw puzzles in the world.

Owned by Gina Gil Lacuna, Puzzle Mansion showcases her personal collection of more than 1,000 puzzles, each one meticulously assembled and preserved. The collection features a wide variety of puzzle designs, themes, and sizes, including intricately detailed masterpieces and challenging puzzles with thousands of pieces.

Here you can marvel at the vast array of puzzles displayed throughout the property. There are also interactive activities that you can enjoy, including solving puzzles at the puzzle-solving area or engage in puzzle-making workshops where you can create their own jigsaw puzzles.

Additionally, Puzzle Mansion has a gift shop where visitors can purchase puzzles of different difficulty levels, designs, and sizes to take home as souvenirs or gifts for puzzle enthusiasts.

This Tagaytay tourist spot provides a unique and engaging experience for people of all ages.

10. Paradizoo

Paradizoo is one of the best family-friendly Tagaytay tourist spots. It is located in Mendez, a few minutes drive from the city. This agricultural theme park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience farm life, interact with animals, and explore beautiful gardens.

The park spans 10 hectares of land and showcases a variety of attractions and activities that both children and adults can enjoy. One of the main highlights of Paradizoo is the animal farm, where you can get up-close and personal with different farm animals such as goats, sheep, rabbits, horses, and more. You can also learn about goats and sheep shearing, as well as cow milking.

It also has different botanical areas where you can learn and appreciate the nature around us, including the Vegetable Garden, Flower Garden, Meditation Garden, Eclectic Garden, and Orchid Pavilion. The Butterfly Farm and Honey Bee Farm allow you to see the miniature world of insects.

Additionally, Paradizoo offers activities such as horseback riding, ziplining, and a farm tour that provides insights into sustainable farming practices. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, featuring flower, vegetable, and livestock exhibits.

Paradizzo offers a fun, educational experience for the whole family, making it one of the best places to visit in Tagaytay.

11. Nurture Wellness Village

Nurture Wellness Village in Tagaytay
(Photo by Nurture Wellness Village)

Looking for a relaxing experience in Tagaytay? Nurture Wellness and Village is a wellness retreat and spa known for its holistic approach to well-being. It offers a serene environment where you can relax and recharge. It’s also a great destination for those looking for a bonding activity with their family or significant other.

Pamper yourself with a massage. One of the signature experiences at Nurture Wellness Village is the “Hilot Trilogy,” which includes a traditional Filipino massage called “hilot,” a banana leaf body wrap, and a warm herbal bath. This therapeutic trilogy aims to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit.

You can also join yoga and meditation sessions where you can connect with your inner self. Or join healthy cooking demonstrations, organic gardening, and wellness talks to enhance your knowledge about the holistic lifestyle.

Nurture Wellness Village is also known for its farm-to-table dining experience. In addition to the wellness activities and dining options, Nurture Wellness Village provides facilities such as a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and sauna for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nurture Wellness Village accepts day tour visitors. Comfortable rooms, villas, and traditional Ifugao-inspired huts are available for those who wish to stay the night.

12. Yoki’s Farm

Yoki's Farm zoo - feeding the zebra
Feeding the zebra.

Yoki’s Farm is one of the best family-friendly tourist spots in Tagaytay. It is located in Mendez, about 20 minutes drive away from Tagaytay town proper.

This 10-hectare farm is a great day trip destination for families and friends. It has a hydroponics farm where you can learn about farming and even pick-and-pay lettuce and other produce. Children in particular will love the mini-zoo, where you can see different animals and even feed zebras. There is also a museum with original and replicate artifacts from all over the world.

When you’re done exploring the attractions inside the farm, feel free to wander around the spacious grounds to relax and breathe fresh air. You can also enjoy delicious, farm-to-table meals at their in-house restaurant.

Aside from regular day tours, Yoki’s Farm also offers educational trips and rooms for overnight accommodation.

13. Kawa hot bath at La VeryOl

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfiaHz8rykY/

For years, you would have to journey to the town of Tibiao in Antique to experience a kawa hot bath. That is, until resorts and other establishments in other regions decided to create their own kawa hot bath experience.

You can experience a relaxing kawa hot bath at La VeryOl in Tagaytay. It is a family-run resort and spa, with 16 kawa units lit by firewood offering a chance to relax and enjoy the hot water while looking at the surrounding foliage. It also offers massage and other spa treatments.

Apart from the kawa and massage services, La VeryOl also has its own in-house restaurant with lush aesthetics that will appeal to plantitos and plantitas. Veranda rooms are available for those who wish to stay longer at at the area.

With its facilities, La VeryOl is one of the most unique places to visit in Tagaytay for couples and other tourists who want to have a pampering experience.

14. Stay in a hotel with an overlooking view

Narra Hill staycation in Tagaytay
Infinity pool at Narra Hill.

There are numerous hotels and resorts in Tagaytay with an overlooking view of Taal Lake and Volcano.

Hotels such as Escala Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel, and The Lake Hotel Tagaytay offer a comfortable staycation with delicious breakfast, a perfect retreat for families and those who would like to unwind. There are also Airbnbs like Narra Hill where you can enjoy exclusive amenities and snap-worthy corners with Taal at the background.

15. Take photos at the Stairway to Heaven

Chill Chill House is one of the newest Airbnbs in Tagaytay, made popular with a short staircase on the rooftop which gives the illusion of climbing up into the sky, hence its nickname “Stairway to Heaven.” This accommodation is a favorite among the young generation and those who love Instagram-worthy locations.

You need to book a room at the Chill Chill House to get access to the rooftop. Each booking comes with complimentary breakfast, shared common areas, and access to the balcony and rooftop where you can take endless photos and also enjoy the view of Taal.

16. Pick strawberries at Queens Strawberry Farm

Queens Strawberry Farm
(Photo by Queens Strawberry Farm)

With its cool climate that lasts throughout the year, it only makes sense for Tagaytay to have its own strawberry farm.

Queens Strawberry Farm is located in Mendez, about 20 minutes away from the town proper of Tagaytay. It features a strawberry farm where you can pick your own strawberries during harvest season, a restaurant served in a gorgeous A-frame building where you can enjoy Filipino meals and strawberry desserts, and a bed-and-breakfast for those who wish to stay a night in a relaxing farm setting.

Aside from the food, it also offers various fun activities including fish feeding and rod fishing, where you can catch tilapia and have the restaurant cook it for you.

With its unique concept and beautiful facilities, Queens Strawberry Farm is one of the must-see Tagaytay tourist spots that you should visit.

16. Ilog Maria Honeybee Farms

Ilog Maria Honeybee Farms is an organic farm and beekeeping enterprise located in Silang, Cavite. It is a good stopover along Aguinaldo Highway, especially for those interested in organic products

The farm is nestled along the banks of the Ilog Maria River, hence the name “Ilog Maria,” which means “River Maria” in Filipino. It is known for its high-quality, natural honey and other bee-related products.

At this farm, you can have the opportunity to learn about beekeeping, sustainable agriculture, and the importance of bees in the ecosystem. You can take a guided tour of the farm, where a knowledgeable staff will teach you about the best beekeeping practices, life cycle of bees, and benefits of natural products derived from honeybees. You can also see the numerous beehives in the farm, which produce a variety of honey flavors, such as wild honey, propolis-infused honey, ginger-infused honey, and more.

After the tour, head to their store to purchase honey and other bee-related organic products, including beeswax candles, propolis tinctures, pollen, soaps and other bath items made with honey and beeswax.

17. GBR Museum

Located about half an hour away from Tagaytay proper, you will find one of the most underrated museums in the Philippines:

The GBR Museum was established in 1996 and is currently run by the Geronimo Berenguer de los Reyes Jr. Foundation. It has five galleries and houses an expansive collection of Philippine archival photographs and images, historical prints, airplane model units, and various displays such as old Chinese ceramics.

Some of the notable displays that you can find here include the Sangley Mestiza (an old photograph of a beautiful Filipina), the first map of the Philippines, and a detailed account of the Cavity Mutiny of 1872.

GBR Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday (including holidays), 8AM to 5PM.

18. Buy buko pie and other pasalubong

The Original buko pie

Before you leave Tagaytay, don’t forget to buy pasalubong such as buko pie and other pastries. The best places for pasalubong are Cecilia’s Buco Pie, Rowena’s Tarts, and D’ Banquet’s pasalubong center. You can also buy ube from Good Shepherd’s Bahay Pastulan, which is operated by the same Good Shepherd’s Sisters in Baguio.

Tips for enjoying your visit to Tagaytay

Before you go, here are useful travel tips for enjoying Tagaytay.

If it’s your first time visiting Tagaytay, it will take 2 days to explore its tourist attractions. However, most people are happy to come here even only for the food.

Expect heavy traffic particularly on weekends and holidays. It’s also best to book your Tagaytay hotels and resorts in advance and make reservations to popular restaurants as they tend to fill up quickly.

The best way to get around Tagaytay is by riding electronic tricycles and jeepneys. Taxis are also available in Tagaytay, but they are pricy and public reviews about them are mostly mixed. If you can, bring your own car or renting one for ease and convenience.

Where to stay in Tagaytay

Tagaytay offers a number of hotels and resorts, some of which offer a view of Taal Volano.

Here are the best stays in Tagaytay:

With its stunning views of Taal volcano and crater lake and various establishments, Tagaytay offers a bit of everything to everyone, including solo travelers, couples, and families.

That concludes our list of the best Tagaytay tourist spots! Do you have other recommended things to do in Tagaytay? Let us know in the comment section below!

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