Located in the southeastern part of Luzon Island, Legazpi City is a popular tourist destination in the Bicol Region of the Philippines. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and delicious local cuisine, Legazpi City offers a one-of-a-kind experience to travelers from all over the world. In this article, we will explore the best ways to get from Manila to Legazpi City, the popular tourist areas, the best local food and restaurants, and hotel recommendations.
Getting to Legazpi City from Manila
There are several ways to get from Manila to Legazpi City. The easiest and most convenient option is to take a flight from Manila to Legazpi City. Several airlines, including Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia, offer daily flights to Legazpi City. The flight takes around an hour and 20 minutes, and the fares can range from PHP 1,500 to PHP 5,000, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
Another option is to take a bus from Manila to Legazpi City. Several bus companies, such as Philtranco, DLTB, and Penafrancia Tours, offer daily trips from Manila to Legazpi City. The bus ride takes around 10-12 hours, and the fare ranges from PHP 1,000 to PHP 1,500, depending on the type of bus and the time of booking.
If you prefer a more private and comfortable mode of transportation, you can also hire a van from Manila to Legazpi City. The van rental costs around PHP 15,000 to PHP 20,000, depending on the size of the van and the number of passengers. The van ride takes around 10 hours, and you can arrange for a pick-up and drop-off at your preferred location.
Popular Tourist Areas in Legazpi City
Once you arrive in Legazpi City, there are several must-visit tourist areas that you should include in your itinerary. The most popular tourist attraction in Legazpi City is the Mayon Volcano. Known for its perfect cone shape, the Mayon Volcano is an active volcano that has erupted several times in the past. You can take a tour to the Mayon Volcano Observatory, where you can learn about the history and geology of the volcano, and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.
Another popular tourist area is the Cagsawa Ruins Park. The Cagsawa Ruins is a church that was destroyed by the Mayon Volcano eruption in 1814. Today, the ruins serve as a reminder of the destructive power of nature and a symbol of resilience for the people of Legazpi City.
If you want to explore the natural beauty of Legazpi City, you can visit the Quitinday Hills. The Quitinday Hills is a group of hills that offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. You can also take a dip in the nearby Kawa-Kawa Natural Park, which features a scenic lake and lush vegetation.
Food and Restaurants in Legazpi City
Legazpi City is known for its rich and flavorful local cuisine. One of the must-try dishes in Legazpi City is the Bicol Express, a spicy pork stew made with coconut milk and chili peppers. You can also try the Pinangat, a savory dish made with taro leaves and coconut milk, or the Laing, a vegetable dish made with taro leaves, chili, and meat or seafood.
For the best local food experience, you can visit small eateries and carinderias around the city, where you can taste authentic Bicolano dishes at affordable prices. If you prefer
a more upscale dining experience, there are also several restaurants in Legazpi City that offer a fusion of Bicolano and international cuisine. One of the most popular restaurants is Waway’s Restaurant, which offers a wide selection of Bicolano dishes, including Bicol Express, Pinangat, and Laing. Another popular restaurant is Small Talk Cafe, which serves fusion dishes and homemade desserts, and offers a cozy ambiance with a view of the Mayon Volcano.
Hotel Recommendations in Legazpi City
- The Oriental Legazpi – The Oriental Legazpi is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Legazpi City, with a stunning view of the Mayon Volcano. The hotel features spacious rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The Oriental Legazpi also has several restaurants and bars that serve international and local cuisine. Room rates start at PHP 5,000 per night.
- Hotel St. Ellis – Hotel St. Ellis is a four-star hotel located near the Legazpi City airport, with easy access to the city’s popular tourist areas. The hotel features spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine. Room rates start at PHP 3,500 per night.
- F2M Tower – F2M Tower is a budget hotel located in the heart of Legazpi City, with easy access to the city’s shopping and dining areas. The hotel features clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities, a 24-hour front desk, and a restaurant that serves local cuisine. Room rates start at PHP 1,000 per night.
- The Marison Hotel – The Marison Hotel is a mid-range hotel located in the central business district of Legazpi City, with easy access to the city’s popular tourist areas. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine, and a rooftop pool. Room rates start at PHP 2,500 per night.
- Balai Tinay Guesthouse – Balai Tinay Guesthouse is a budget-friendly guesthouse located near the Legazpi City airport, with easy access to the city’s popular tourist areas. The guesthouse features clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities, a 24-hour front desk, and a restaurant that serves local cuisine. Room rates start at PHP 600 per night.
