Tagaytay is a favorite day-trip destination among Manileños. Its breathtaking views, cool weather, and great-tasting food will entice you to visit. Just a little south of Metro Manila, Tagaytay provides a quick escape from the busyness of city life.
It’s so close you can grab a quick bite and return to Manila. Want to know how to commute to Tagaytay? This blog will detail how to get from Manila to Tagaytay via public transport, van, or bus rental services. Other info such as bus operators, ticket fares, and terminals will also be included.
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Where to Ride Buses from Manila to Tagaytay
Tagaytay is more easily accessible by private vehicle. From Manila’s NAIA airport, you can try to hail a taxi to take you there directly. Or you can book with a car service beforehand to drive you from either the airport or your hotel. Otherwise, you may ride from any of the terminals and bus operators listed below. Travel time from Manila to Tagaytay is 1-2 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Araneta Bus Terminal
From Cubao, make your way to the Araneta City Bus Port. Hop on a bus bound for Nasugbu, Batangas. Make sure there is a Tagaytay signboard on the bus windshield. Another option is to go to the San Agustin bus terminal. It’s a 15-minute walk from the Araneta Bus Terminal and right across Farmer’s Plaza. Ride a bus bound for Nasugbu or Calatagan on the southbound lane. Always check with the driver to make sure the bus will directly pass Tagaytay. Bus fare from Cubao to Tagaytay should cost about 120+ PHP.
Buendia Bus Terminal
Right next to LRT-1 Gil Puyat Station, the Buendia bus terminal is easy to reach for commuters. San Agustin, DLTB, and JAM buses have trips that run through Tagaytay. You will be charged 90+ PHP for the bus fare. Spot the Tagaytay signboard in the vehicle, if none, ask the operator to confirm the bus route.
PITX Terminal
Paranaque is not too far off from Tagaytay, making the bus ticket cheaper at around 80+ PHP. At the country’s first landport, you can board any bus bound for Nasugbu, Calatagan, and Lian. As long as the conductor confirms the stop in Tagaytay, you’re fine. Bus operators like San Agustin and Starliner are known for having direct routes.
How to Get Around Tagaytay
With no car, it’s a little challenging to get around Tagaytay because restaurants and tourist spots are distant from each other. There are no taxis or ride-hailing services available. Public transportation is the way to go. Take a jeep or hire a tricycle to get to your destination.
What to Do in Tagaytay
There’s something in store for everyone in Tagaytay. Amusement parks, restaurants, spas, and more await you!
Hike to Taal Volcano’s Crater Lake
Have you ever been to an island within a lake…on an island within a lake? Sounds a bit absurd, but Taal volcano’s geographical position is what makes it interesting! Of course, the view is also stunning! Hiking to Taal’s crater lake is great for beginners and kids. You’ll have to charter a boat and hire a guide for this adventure. If you’re not up to do some hiking, you can still enjoy a view of the Taal volcano from one of the many establishments along Tagaytay.
Go on thrill rides at Sky Ranch
Sky Ranch’s giant Ferris wheel is one of Tagaytay’s most well-known landmarks. To get into this leisure park, there’s an entrance fee of 80 PHP on weekdays and 100 PHP on weekends. Each ride has its corresponding fee as well. Thrill-seekers will be pleased to know that the park has a drop tower, a log ride, and several roller coasters. Check out this Tagaytay day tour from Manila which includes transfers and a visit to Sky Ranch.
Explore and take photos at Fantasy World
Although not in Tagaytay, Fantasy World is only a 30-minute drive away. The rides are not operational at this theme park but people visit anyway to take photos of the colorful castles. The entrance fee is 1,000 PHP for 10 pax. If you can’t form your own pack, it might be better to join a tour to split costs. Joiner tours like this one are perfect for solo travelers and smaller groups. Click here to check for full details of the Tagaytay and Fantasy World day tour.
Relax with a massage at Nurture Wellness Spa
Need some R&R? Nurture Wellness Village can help you with that! This retreat center is consistently featured as one of the top spas in the country. With over 400 positive reviews on Google, you’re guaranteed to be in good hands. For the spa packages, you can choose the oil massage, hot stone massage, or coffee scrub massage here. Sit back and relax as their highly trained staff take care of you.
Try Tagaytay’s highly rated restaurants
Take your taste buds on an adventure! The must-try foods are Leslie’s bulalo, Bag of Bean’s raisin bread, Rowena’s buko pie, and Tsokolateria’s champorado. We’re barely scratching the surface with our recommendations. There are more restaurants in the area that are worth a visit to! Your visit won’t be complete without a Tagaytay food trip.
Where to Stay in Tagaytay
With so many things to do, it’s impossible to visit all these places in a day! Plan a longer stay with these best hotel deals from Agoda.
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*Last updated: April 28, 2024