Legazpi Albay Travel Guide: Mayon Volcano + Hotels + Itinerary

Discover the beauty of Legazpi City in Albay. Find out the best tourist spots to visit, where to stay, what local cuisine to try, and more. Read this guide to help you plan the ultimate getaway to the home of Mayon Volcano. 

Legazpi City’s claim to fame is the Mount Mayon, a perfectly symmetrical volcano and also the most active one in the Philippines. However, Mount Mayon is just one of the many reasons why tourists flock the city.

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• Browse a selection of trips and activities in Legazpi City for your getaway

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The City of Fun and Adventure, Legazpi City is located in the province of Albay in the Bicol Region. Around 532 kilometers South of Metro Manila, it serves as Bicol’s center of transportation, education, health services, commerce, and tourism and is the capital city of Albay.

Legazpi City is also the gateway to many amazing destinations the region has to offer, such as swimming with the whale sharks in Donsol and wakeboarding in Naga.

If you're looking for an escape from your busy urban lifestyle, Legazpi City is the place to go because 90% of it is actually rural, with mostly plains on the northeast and rolling hills on the south. There are coastal areas here as well, which explains why it was originally a fishing settlement called Sawangan.

The city is susceptible to typhoons, volcanic eruptions, and rising sea levels due to its geographical location within the Pacific Ring of Fire.

But not to worry, a disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation strategy is already in place and has even earned Legazpi recognition as a model city for the implementation of risk reduction management practices by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council.

There are a ton of historical and cultural sites, scenery, and action-packed adventures to discover here. Read on and learn how you can best enjoy your trip to Legazpi City.

Best Time to Go to Legazpi 

Legazpi City has a tropical rainforest climate and experiences a considerable amount of rainfall every year. January is the coolest month while May and June are the hottest months. 

Weather-wise, the best time to visit is during the summer months between March through May. This way, you can make the most out of the many outdoor activities available. If you wish to experience the Ibalong Festival though, you should visit when it happens in August.

How to Get to Legazpi

Legazpi is known as the gateway to Bicol because of its central location in the region. The city is also very accessible. You can choose among various modes of transportation via land and air.

Flying to Legazpi from Manila and Cebu

Air travel is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Legazpi City. Travel time usually takes 55 minutes to 1 hour. The Legazpi Domestic Airport is the busiest non-international airport in Luzon and has daily flights to and from Manila. Alternatively, you can also catch a one-hour flight to Legazpi from Cebu via Cebu Pacific.

Traveling to Legazpi from Manila or parts of Luzon by Bus

You can take either an air-conditioned or non-air-conditioned bus from Manila to Legazpi City and vice versa. There are several bus liners that schedule daily trips to the city.

There are different bus stations or points of origin in Manila depending on which bus liners you choose. You can ride a bus from any of these points: Araneta Center Bus Station, EDSA-Cubao, LRT-Buendia via EDSA-Pasay, Ermita or Alabang. All these buses will take you to the Legazpi Grand Central Terminal. Travel time is usually between 9 - 12 hours.

How to Get Around Legazpi

Finding transportation is fairly easy in the city of Legazpi. Public utility vehicles such as tricycles, jeepneys, UV Express vans, and taxis are available.

Tricycles

Tricycles are three-wheeled motorcycle cabs. You will usually find them waiting for passengers at a designated tricycle stop. Take note that tricycles can only take you to designated locations.

Tricycles usually need to fill their cab with four to eight passengers before leaving. If you don't want to wait, you'll need to rent the tricycle and pay for the corresponding rate.

Jeepneys and UV Express Vans

Riding a jeepney is the cheapest way to travel within the city. They usually follow a designated route. You can look at the sides of the jeepneys or on the signboard on the window to find out what their route is.

UV Express vans are air-conditioned utility vehicles that usually seat 10 - 12 passengers. Like jeepneys, they also follow a designated route.

You can find a jeepney and UV Express terminal at the LKY Metro Transport and Lifestyle Hub, a small commercial center right across from the Legazpi Grand Central Terminal.

Taxis

You can usually find taxi cabs at the airport or some of the malls. You may also choose to call the taxi company directly if you want a taxi for hire similar to renting a car.

What to See and Do in Legazpi

Going up close to Mount Mayon is certainly one of the things you must try to do in Legazpi City. However, the city is also full of history, culture, nature, and exciting adventures that you must explore as well.

Whether it's studying the remains of the church at the Cagsawa Ruins, enjoying the nightlife at the Embarcadero or joining an ATV tour, there's something here for everyone.

Learn and discover the history and culture of Legazpi, Albay

A great way to understand the city and its people is to learn about it not just for what it is now but also for what it used to be. Visiting its historical places as well as its new developments will make you truly appreciate Legazpi City.

Ibalong Festival

Join the locals in August when people celebrate the epic story of Ibalong and three legendary heroes by parading on the streets dressed and masked as them. It's a non-religious festival wherein both locals and tourists are invited to participate.

Daraga Church

Love old churches? Then you'll love the Daraga Church. Also called the Nuestra Señora de la Porteria Parish Church, it was built in 1772 by the Franciscans in Daraga, Albay. It is known as the crowning glory of religious architecture in the province with a facade made from volcanic rocks.

Cagsawa Ruins

This is what remains of a church built by the Franciscans in the 17th Century. It was destroyed first by Dutch pirates then by Mount Mayon when it erupted in 1814. The site is now a park and declared a national cultural treasure in 2015.

Aside from taking beautiful photos, you can visit a branch of the National Museum of the Philippines here, shop for souvenirs or go on an ATV adventure. There's even a resort with a pool where you can swim while marveling at the majestic Mount Mayon.

St. Gregory the Great Cathedral

Want to see one of the oldest Roman Catholic Churches in the country? This was built by Spanish missionaries in the 1580s using wooden materials. Improvements were made to it until it was also destroyed when Mount Mayon erupted. It was reconstructed again in 1834 then became a cathedral in 1951. You can find it easily at the Old Albay District.

Peñaranda Park

Also called the Freedom Park, this is a Spanish-style plaza dedicated to the first Governor of Albay, Jose Ma. Peñaranda. It is surrounded by the Albay Capitol, Legazpi City Hall and the St. Gregory the Great Cathedral. It's a nice place to relax or people-watch.

Albay Astrodome

If you want to catch some of the biggest events in Legazpi, chances are you'll find them here. Inaugurated in 1997, it's a multi-purpose, domed sports and event stadium that seats 6,000 people.

Embarcadero de Legazpi

Go here for an array of lifestyle options, such as dining, shopping, and entertainment. A premier waterfront development, this is the place to be to enjoy the city's nightlife.

You can even try kart racing and the 350-meter zipline. Soon to rise is a 90-feet high skywalk that will give you an amazing view of Mount Mayon and the cityscape.

Admire the scenery and explore adventures in Legazpi, Albay

The views in Legazpi City are spectacular and you can enjoy them in various places in the city. A lot of these places also offer fun and adrenaline-pumping activities for you to enjoy.

Legazpi Boulevard

This coastal road network offers a spectacular view of Mount Mayon. However, it's also a place to check out notable landmarks, dine with a view from among the several cafes and restaurants lined up, watch or join sports activities, and even jog, run, walk, bike or do Zumba.

Lignon Hill Nature Park

You can watch the sunrise or sunset here and also get a panoramic 360-degree view of the city, Daraga, Albay Gulf, and Mount Mayon. It’s also home to a 320-meter zipline plus other extreme sports and adventures like rappelling, hiking, biking, and paintball.

Need a taste of history? You can get it here too at the Japanese Tunnel where you can pretend to be a Japanese soldier during World War II.

Albay Park and Wildlife

Traveling with kids? This is a great place to take them. You can see various animals, such as the Philippine Hawk Eagle, bleeding heart pigeons, crocodiles, and more. You can even have a picnic, go boat riding and let your kids play on the playground.

Sumlang Lake

This is one of the province's newest attractions. The lake is small but it provides a great view of Mayon and has a nice restaurant. You can also rent a bamboo raft for Php 50 per person. 

Mayon Volcano National Park and ATV Tours

This 5,775.7-hectare park has Mayon Volcano as its centerpiece. It’s covered with clouds most of the time though. Visit it early in the morning to see it best.

Want to get up close to the volcano? Sign up for an ATV tour. It's an exhilarating activity that's not for the fainthearted but it's something you will truly enjoy.

What to Eat and Drink Legazpi

One of the greatest things about the Filipino food is in Bicol region. Don't pass up this opportunity to try Bicolano cuisine while you're here. Bicolanos love to cook and eat.

Expect to enjoy very tasty food usually with a combination of hot spices and coconut cream, such as in two of their popular dishes, Laing and Bicol Express.

In the mood for other cuisines? Don't fret because there are 110 bars and restaurants to choose from in Legazpi City. Here are some of the top choices of tourists.

1st Colonial Grill

Photo by 1st Colonial Grill

Located at the Pacific Mall at F. Imperial St., this mid-range restaurant is very popular for their Filipino, Asian, and vegetarian-friendly meals. Don't miss out on their bestsellers like Sisig, Chili Ice Cream, Tinapa Rice, and Coffee.

Small Talk Cafe

If you're on the hunt for pizzas and pasta dishes, this Filipino / Asian cafe at Dona Aurora street is the place to be. They serve vegetarian and vegan-friendly options too.

Bob Marlin

Want to explore Bicolandia cuisine and other Filipino dishes? This restaurant located at J. Rizal street in Old Albay is especially popular for their Crispy Pata, Laing, Pinangat with Crab, and Bicol Express.

DJC Halo-Halo

When it's time for dessert, it's time for Special Halo-Halo and you can get it from this restaurant located at the Landco Business Park. You can try the other desserts on their menu too.

Where to Stay in Legazpi

Photo by The Oriental Legazpi

The city has 9 hotels accredited by the Department of Tourism plus 60 other hotels, inns, and pension houses. Below are the top choices for Legazpi hotels according to budget-friendly, mid-range, and luxury accommodations.

Budget Accommodations

If your budget is tight, you don't have to scrimp so much on accommodations because Legazpi City has several hostels and inns that can provide you with your basic necessities.

Mayon Backpackers Hostel

Photo by Mayon Backpackers Hostel

This is a small, family-run hostel in Maoyod Subdivision in Old Albay and within striking distance to tourist attractions. They offer free internet, free parking, breakfast, air conditioning, kitchenette, family rooms.

Legazpi Tourist Inn

This non-smoking hotel located at the corner of Quezon Avenue and Lapu-Lapu Street is close to Lignon Hill Nature Park. They offer Free Wi-Fi, airport transportation, air conditioning, non-smoking rooms, coffee shop, baggage storage, 24 hour front desk, and parking.

Mid-range Accommodations

If what you're after is comfort, Legazpi City has a lot of mid-range accommodations that offer the best value in terms of price and amenities.

Casablanca Suites

This boutique hotel located in the middle of the Legazpi Business district offers free Wi-Fi, breakfast, bar, restaurant, and airport transportation.

The Marison Hotel

Photo by The Marison Hotel

Located at the corner of Lakandula drive in Gogon, this 3-star hotel offers free parking, free Wi-Fi, airport transportation, pool, restaurant, gym, and room service.

Luxury Accommodations

If you have the budget to indulge in premium amenities, Legazpi City has several four-star hotels to choose from.

The Oriental Legazpi

Located in Sto. Nino Village, this hotel offers an amazing view of the Mayon Volcano, Albay Gulf and the Legazpi cityscape. It's only a 15-minute drive to the airport and a 20-minute drive to the city.

Photo by The Oriental Legazpi

They offer free parking, bar / lounge, pool, fitness center, room service, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, spa, air conditioning, in-room refrigerator, family rooms, non-smoking rooms, suites, among others.

Hotel St. Ellis

This hotel is centrally located along Rizal Street and just a 3-kilometer drive from the airport. Their amenities include a pool, Essences Spa, Salon Mye, fitness center, kiddie activity room, free Wi-Fi, room service, restaurant, free parking, breakfast, air conditioning, family rooms, non-smoking rooms, suites, among others.

Sample Legazpi Itinerary: Mayon Volcano + Cagsawa Ruins + City Tour 

To make the most out of your time in Legazpi City, here is a suggested itinerary for 3 days and 2 nights stay.

Day 1: Arrival + City Tour + Outdoor Activities            

• 07:00 AM - ETA at Legazpi City

• 08:00 - 09:00 AM  - Visit Peñaranda Park, Legazpi City Hall and Cathedral of St. Gregory the Great

• 09:30 - 11:00 AM - Visit Albay Astrodome and Legazpi Boulevard

• 11:00 - 12:00 NN -  Lunch at Legazpi Boulevard

• 01:00 PM - Hotel check-in

• 01:30 - 02:30 PM -  Free time / relax

• 02:30 - 05:00 PM  - Visit Embarcadero de Legazpi, go-kart racing, try the zipline and check out the shops. It’s a popular attraction included in a Legazpi day tour

• 05:00 - 06:00 PM  - Dinner at Embarcadero de Legazpi

Day 2: Nature Park + Wildlife Adventure + Historical Visit

• 07:00 AM  - Wake up. Have breakfast

• 08:00 - 09:30 AM - Visit Sumlang Lake and ride a bamboo raft

• 10:00 - 12:00 NN - Check out the animals, go boat riding or play at the playground at the Albay Park and Wildlife

• 12:00 - 01:00 PM - Lunch

• 01:30 - 03:00 PM - Go back to the hotel and rest

• 03:00 - 05:00 PM - Visit the Japanese Tunnel, try the adventure activities and watch the sunset at Lignon Hill Nature Park in a Legazpi sightseeing trip

• 05:00 - 06:00 PM  - Return to the hotel and have dinner

Day 3: Sightseeing + ATV Tour   

• 07:00 AM - Wake up. Have breakfast

• 08:30 - 11:30 AM - Visit Daraga Church and Cagsawa Ruins, two of the most popular tourist spots included in most Legazpi tours

• 12:00 NN - Lunch

• 01:00 - 4:00  PM - Visit the Mayon Volcano National Park and go on an ATV Tour

• 05:00 PM - Early dinner

• 06:00 PM - ETD Legazpi City to Manila

Practical Tips and Information

• Legazpi is a tobacco-free city. The Smoke-Free Ordinance enforced starting 2009 prohibits smoking in all public places, including government offices, public places, malls, and parks.

• Wear light clothes to keep you comfortable but bring sunglasses, umbrellas, caps, scarves, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

• Always check the weather prior to visiting the outdoor destinations especially the Cagsawa Ruins and Mayon Volcano.

Legazpi City: More Than Mount Mayon

Mayon Volcano is clearly one of the best things about Legazpi City. It is no doubt a majestic sight and it’s no wonder why a lot of the city’s attractions and activities are centered around it. However, a closer look will reveal that the city is more than meets the eye.

Legazpi is a charming and bustling city full of history, culture, and nature. It is a place where one can learn and enjoy at the same time. It definitely lives up to its tagline - a City of Fun and Adventure.

Start planning your tour to Legazpi City! Look into Legazpi tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary.