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Looking for a quick escape from the Manila heat? Tagaytay is a refreshing 2-hour drive from the metro, making it one of the most popular day-trip or weekend destinations. While driving is the best way to explore at your own pace, you can also opt to join a local day tour.
Tagaytay Accommodation
We decided to stay overnight to enjoy things at our own pace. We stayed at Tagaytay Wingate Manor. It is a 3-star hotel with a small outdoor pool. The hotel has only two floors and no elevator, so it can be difficult if travelling with the elderly. The staff helped us carry our luggage to our rooms. Overall, the rooms were clean, and the staff was very helpful. The hotel is a bit difficult to access without a car, though. Guests can park their cars in front of the hotel.
Breakfast at Antonio’s
To kick start our day, we went to Breakfast at Antonio’s. We arrived 15 minutes before their opening hours, and there was already a queue outside the restaurant. We waited for 30 minutes. Breakfast at Antonio’s serves Western and Filipino cuisine, along with different kinds of pastries. We had high expectations because of the good reviews, but I’m a bit disappointed by the food. Overall, the food was okay, but the egg omelette that I ordered was a bit too salty. We also bought some croissants and raisin buns. I find it a bit pricey.
Address: Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Barangay Tagaytay – Nasugbu Hwy, Tagaytay
Picnic Grove
After a hearty meal, we went to Picnic Grove. It’s a great place to hang out with friends and family. It feels good to just sit down and relax, and enjoy the nice view under the picnic huts.
Unfortunately, the entrance fee does not include activities such as horseback riding or ziplining. Everything, including the toilet, has a cost. There are souvenir shops and cafes in the area to grab a quick bite and do some souvenir shopping.
Address: Tagaytay Picnic Grove Complex, Barangay, End, Tagaytay, Cavite
Balay Dako
We ended our day by having an early dinner at Balay Dako. The place gets very busy during peak hours, and it would be difficult to find parking, so we arrived early. It is one of the top restaurants that serve Filipino cuisine in Tagaytay. The restaurant also offers a great view of Taal Volcano during daytime. While waiting to be seated, we bought some snacks from the shop near the entrance.
Address: Tagaytay – Nasugbu Hwy, Tagaytay, 4120 Cavite
Charito by Bag of Beans
The next day, we had breakfast at Charito by Bag of Beans. It is just beside Balay Dako and is also one of the restaurants with the best view of Taal Volcano. It has an open area, and the ambiance feels so relaxing. The food is delicious, and with generous servings. I love their breakfast, the view, and their service. I will definitely come back again for more.
Address: 150 Emilio Aguinaldo Hwy, Tagaytay, Cavite
Sonya’s Garden
Prior to this trip, I visited Sonya’s Garden with my friends. We ordered their classic lunch buffet. There was no buffet table setup, maybe because of the pandemic. Instead, the food was delivered to our table. We can ask for refills if we want more. Sonya’s Garden is not just a restaurant; it also offers accommodation for guests who wish to stay longer.
Address: Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite
Cecilia’s Buco Pie
Before we left Tagaytay, we bought some freshly baked buco pie (coconut pie) from Cecilia’s. There are several branches in Tagaytay City, so I did not include the address here.
Finally, on our way back to Manila, we bought some coconuts from local vendors.
Whether you’re looking to escape the city heat for just a day or planning a relaxing weekend staycation, Tagaytay never disappoints. From the cool mountain breeze and iconic volcano views to the endless stream of fantastic cafes and restaurants, it’s the ultimate quick getaway from Manila. Just remember to leave early to beat the weekend traffic, and don’t forget to grab a fresh buco pie on your way home!
