Batangas City is known as the “Industrial Port City of CALABARZON” and is home to one of the busiest ports in the country, as well as several oil refineries. On the other hand, it’s also a central point to visit some of the province’s best tourism spots, where everything is just a quick car ride away.
If you’re coming from Panay Island, you can take a 2Go ferry from Caticlan Jetty Port to Batangas City. You can also reach Batangas from Romblon via the same ferry line.
From Manila, it’s only two hours away. Take the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) all the way to Star Tollway. Get on a bus at the Buendia Bus Terminal in Makati – buses leave by the hour.
Usually, jeepneys and tricycles are the main mode of transportation.
Batangas City is home to Verde Island, around 45 minutes off the mainland. Most of it is untouched, but there are a few beach resorts dotting the island. Verde Island has a rich marine biodiversity. Another tourist attraction is Ilijan Falls, a unique type of waterfall that comes from a big spring on top of a mountain. Another famous waterfalls in Batangas City is Tingga Falls that includes a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere.
A good way to visit and absorb Batangas City’s beauty is to go on a historical tour. There are several historical buildings, such as churches, museums, and other places of interests that have been well-preserved throughout the centuries.
As there are several beach resorts around, there’s a good chance for travelers to get a good swim in Batangas Bay, or better yet visit the neighboring cities to get some diving gear and visit well-known diving spots.
Batangueños know how to cook, and their restaurants boast this culinary heritage. For a great dining experience, visit Wanam sa Bukid, which serves Filipino-Chinese cuisine at an affordable price – be sure to try out miki guisado, which goes perfectly with adobo fried rice.
Another great restaurant to try is A&M Village Restaurant, serving Batangueño meals since 1966. Don’t forget to try their beef caldereta, served with rice and atsara.
Tourists will not run out of places to go to at night. With the numerous bars throughout Batangas City, it will take more than a weekend to visit them all. However, for first timers, do visit White Beach Resort Bar & Restaurant and Le President’s Bar.
There are several budget hotels near or around the Batangas Port Area. D’Mariners Hotel is a good choice for backpackers on a budget – at less than PhP 1,500/night, but for an ultimate luxury experience, book a stay at Luks Lofts Hotel & Residences (around PhP 17k/night). If these don’t fit in your budget, there are several transient hotels and pension houses a little further off.
Total Accommodation | 17 Properties |
Popular Area | Gulod Labac, Pallocan West |
Popular Hotel | Luks Lofts Hotel & Residences, PonteFino Hotels |
Popular Landmark | University of Batangas, Batangas City Sports Center |