Jump to: About Batangas | How to Get There | Top Tourist Spots | Best Beaches | Sample Itinerary | Budget Guide | Travel Tips
About Batangas
Batangas is a province in Southern Luzon, just a few hours from Metro Manila. Known for its white-sand beaches, diving spots, mountains, and heritage towns, Batangas is perfect for weekend getaways, family trips, or solo adventures. It's also home to the famous Taal Volcano and ancestral churches like Taal Basilica. Not only that, the Batangueños are naturally born cooks, so expect sumptuous delicacies in different parts of the province.
How to Get to Batangas
- By Bus: From Manila, take a bus to Batangas City, Nasugbu, Lipa, or Lemery (JAM, Alps, DLTB).
- By Car: Take SLEX or STAR Tollway, depending on your destination.
- By Boat: Ferries are available from Batangas Port to Mindoro or Romblon (if continuing your trip).
Top Tourist Attractions in Batangas
- Taal Volcano Viewpoints (Tagaytay/Balete)
- Taal Heritage Town – home of old Spanish houses and Taal Basilica
- Mt. Batulao / Mt. Maculot – for hiking and panoramic views
- Fantasy World – an abandoned theme park turned photo spot
- Caleruega Church – a popular wedding and spiritual retreat destination
Best Beaches & Dive Spots in Batangas
- Laiya (San Juan) – white sand, clear water, resorts
- Nasugbu – upscale and family-friendly beach resorts
- Anilao (Mabini) – world-class diving and snorkeling
- Matabungkay (Lian) – classic beach resort with floating cottages
- Masasa Beach (Tingloy Island) – beautiful, affordable, and good for camping
Sample 2D1N Itinerary for Batangas
Day 1: Early travel from Manila → Morning hike (Mt. Maculot) → Check-in at beach resort in Laiya or Nasugbu → Sunset & beach walk
Day 2: Island hopping or snorkeling → Visit Taal Heritage Town or Caleruega → Back to Manila by late afternoon
Estimated Travel Budget (Per Person)
- Transportation (RT): ₱400–₱700
- Accommodation (1 night): ₱800–₱2,000
- Food: ₱300–₱600
- Entrance/Activity Fees: ₱200–₱500
- Total Estimate: ₱1,800–₱3,500+
Batangas Travel Tips
- Leave early to avoid traffic, especially on weekends
- Pack light and bring sunblock, swimwear, and power banks
- If hiking, bring appropriate gear and water
- Try local delicacies: Lomi, Tapang Taal, Kapeng Barako
- Weekdays are better for fewer crowds and cheaper rates
Final Thoughts
Batangas is one of the most accessible and diverse destinations in Luzon. From highlands to shorelines, it has everything a traveler could ask for — culture, nature, food, and adventure. Whether you’re on a solo backpacking trip or a family beach getaway, Batangas will never disappoint. By the way, I've visited all 82 provinces of the Philippines on 16 February 2025; read my travel itineraries and guide.
