Batangas City is the capital and largest city in Batangas Province. It is an important seaport and center of trade for local goods, as well as major recreation, education, religious and commercial center.
As the main city in the region, seaside Batangas is an ideal base for trips to Lake Taal and Taal Volcano, scuba diving at Anilao, mountain trekking in Mabini and on Mt Maculot, and numerous beaches and islands along the southern coast of Luzon.
Batangas City has some excellent Spanish churches and houses dating back to the colonial era such as the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception built in 1851. The Plaza Malbini is one of two public parks in Batangas that are very popular with locals and tourists. Laural Park is the other city recreation site.
The city has several undeveloped beaches ideal for walks, swims and hanging out. Isla Verde, a two-hour boat ride from the city is another popular destination. Mahabang Buhangin Beach is the star of this undeveloped island, boasting two waterfalls for nature lovers to enjoy.
Mount Banoy and Matoco Point are just on the edge of Batangas and offer a lofty panoramic view of the city below. In the city, there are good shopping, dining and lodging options scattered throughout. Although most visitors tend to pass through Batangas on their way to other places, the city offers enough diversion to enjoy a day or two.
Getting There & Away
Batangas is about 2 hours, 30 minutes from Manila by road. Numerous bus companies offer daily service to the city on comfortable air-conditioned coaches. Another good way to reach Batangas is to rent a car and drive the easy South Luzon Expressway that connects to the STAR Tollway. Manila’s international airport serves countries around the world.
Things to Do
Batangas Attractions
- Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
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Built in 1850, this lovely spanish colonial cathedral is an excellent example of renaissance architecture.
- Plaza Malbini
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Spend an afternoon in this central public park and watch how the locals unwind and socialize.
Side trips from Batangas
- Matoco Point
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Head up to the foothills and get a panoramic view of the city below.