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Bucket List: Best Things to See and Do in Legazpi City, Philippines
I know what you’re thinking; when we hear about the province of Albay, there’s only one major tourist attraction that first comes to mind, right? Yes, you guessed it right. I’m talking about the world-famous Mayon Volcano, the perfect cone volcano itself! Well, if you’re planning to witness Mayon Volcano’s everlasting beauty, then the best place to visit is no other than Legazpi City, Albay.
Legazpi City is close to the Mayon Volcano Natural Park. This simply means that tourists can easily access all the fun and exciting activities around Mayon Volcano. Moreover, the city is considered one of the province’s first-class cities, so expect to encounter premium accommodation and entertainment facilities. Aside from the majestic Mayon Volcano, there are countless other must-see attractions such as natural wonders and historical landmarks. Don’t worry, I’ll make sure that you’ll get to discover each and every one of them. So, join me as we both explore the 12 Best Things to do in Legazpi City, Albay!
Visit the Iconic Mayon Volcano Natural Park
First on the list and probably the best thing you shouldn’t miss is visiting the iconic Mayon Volcano Natural Park. Spanning an area of more than 5,775 hectares, this massive natural park houses one of the Philippines’ treasured natural wonders, Mayon Volcano itself. Visiting the park gives tourists a chance to witness the majestic beauty of the perfect-cone volcano and abundant ecosystem.
The Mayon Volcano also houses several rare plant and animal species that are hard to find anywhere in the country. So aside from admiring the stunning beauty of Mayon, you’ll also get to encounter these beautiful creations of nature around the protected areas.
Fall in Love with the Majestic Vera Falls
Secluded at the feet of the majestic Mt. Malinao is another hidden gem in Legazpi City that you shouldn’t miss the chance to explore. The sparkling Vera Falls is a tropical paradise where you can see the cascading crystalline waters to a stunning rock formation. Tourists can explore and swim around the crystal clear turquoise waters covering the deep bedrock below.
Enjoying Vera Falls’ elegance is one thing to look forward to, but I think that you’d also like the adventure en route to this tropical paradise! An exotic foot trail spanning a length of 1,200 meters awaits adventurers as they hike and trek through a sea of lush vegetation.
Discover the Historical Japanese Tunnels
It is not new to our knowledge that the Philippines was once under the rule of Japanese Imperialism, right? Well, to give us a clearer glimpse of that part of our country’s history, we should definitely visit the Japanese Tunnels of Camalig, Albay.
This historical attraction is just a few minutes away from the city proper of Legazpi, where tourists can explore the L-shaped tunnels with a height of more than 3 meters in some areas. It is said that these tunnels are where the Japanese stored their ammunition which they also used as an escape route when the Americans tried to catch them. Locals even believe that the tunnels once stretched all the way to the city municipal hall. How crazy is that?
Explore the Cagsawa Ruins Park
Ah, another famous tourist attraction near Legazpi City is the Cagsawa Ruins Park. The park features the iconic ruins of the 16th-Century Cagsawa Church that was buried following the violent eruption of Mayon Volcano in 1814. Only the bell tower of the famed church survived the catastrophe, and many were believed to be buried alive.
Despite its mesmerizing appearance, the Cagsawa Ruins serve as a beautiful yet scary warning of how dangerous Mayon Volcano truly is. I’m sure that you’ve already seen the Cagsawa Ruins because it’s practically beside the Mayon Volcano on every postcard picture available out there.
Go on an ATV Adventure on Mayon Volcano!
Finally, you want to bring the adventure to a whole new level, huh? Well, then you might as well go on an ATV Adventure around the scenic trails of Mayon Volcano! Aside from witnessing the beauty of the volcano up-close and in every angle, you’ll also get to have an adrenaline rush experience while you’re at it!
Besides, you can also have your memorable photos taken by the professional and friendly ATV instructors out there! Many tour packages are being offered around every tourist spot near Mayon Volcano, so be sure to check out what you think is best for you!
Visit Albay Parks and Wildlife
Occupying a massive area of more than 5 hectares, the Albay Parks and Wildlife is another popular tourist attraction where visitors can admire the beauty of nature and enjoy a friendly encounter with the abundant wildlife. The park has different areas such as the zoo, recreation, and the fantastic rescue center for captured and endangered wildlife species.
Some of the animals you can meet there are the Philippine Hawk Eagle, Bleeding Hawk Pigeons, tigers, lions, and many more!
Enjoy the Breathtaking Views Along Legazpi Boulevard
Ah, right! The iconic Legazpi Boulevard is one of the most picturesque locations you can ever find in Legazpi City. This coastal road network spanning a length of almost 1 kilometer features a stunning view of the Mayon Volcano, the Katipunan Hill, and the Albay Gulf in one breathtaking frame. That’s right, countless tourists stop by the boulevard to try and capture the legendary combination of some of nature’s best wonders and trust me, it’s all worth seeing. So if I were you, I’d prepare all my cameras because we’re in for a fantastic photoshoot!
Drop By the Albay Capitol Atrium Art Gallery
Located in the Old Albay District of Legazpi City, the Albay Capitol Atrium Art Gallery has become one of the go-to tourist destinations in the city for many years. The gallery is a premier exhibit location for some of the locals’ best paintings, artworks, and drawings that visitors are free to admire. The art gallery holds a monthly exhibit where some of the industry’s biggest names participate.
Go on an Adventure in Lignon Hill Nature Park
The famous Lignon Hill Nature Park has always been a tourism landmark for Legazpi, Albay. The 156-meter high hill is used by PHIVOLCS as an observation deck where they also put up a lighthouse to better observe the activities of Mayon Volcano. As time went by, it also became a premier tourist spot where people could go sightseeing, try awesome adventures, and just wander around the fantastic sceneries.
One of the best attractions in Lignon Hill Nature Park is the zipline where tourists can clearly see the beauty of Legazpi City’s skyline, the Albay Gulf, and the Mayon Volcano as they fly across the hill.
Visit the Famous Daraga Church
Also known as Nuestra Señora de la Porteira, the famous Daraga Church also deserves to be one of the must-visit attractions in Legazpi City. The baroque-style church is situated on a hill overlooking the majestic Mayon Volcano, making the place the perfect spot for capturing the breathtaking scenery. But aside from offering prayers and admiring the stunning view, what hooks the attention of many is the excellent history of Daraga Church.
Do you remember the violent 1814 eruption of Mayon Volcano that once devastated nearby towns and buried the famous Cagsawa Church? During that catastrophe, Daraga Church served as a shelter for many people. And that’s what made it such a must-visit historical and religious landmark in Albay to this day.
Explore the Majestic Quitinday Falls and Underground River
Another hidden gem that you should explore near Legazpi City is the Quitinday Falls and Underground River. This natural wonder features a cave that dwells stunning stalactites and stalagmites where cold water streams are flowing freely unto a gorge of water. This gorge is considered the best attraction around the area, where tourists can cliff jump and pose for amazing pictures as they land on the cold, blue-green waters of the Quitinday Underground River.
Have a Gastronomic Feast at 1st Colonial Grill
Finally, no trip is ever complete without a food adventure included, right? So as a final touch to our amazing Legazpi City tour, let us have a gastronomic feast at the famous 1st Colonial Grill! Founded in 2004, this restaurant offers fantastic Bicolano fusion cuisine to its customers.
Some must-try dishes are Buko-Chopsuey, Tinapa Fried Rice, Pork Sisig, Crispy na Pata, and the iconic Sili Ice Cream. It is said that the 1st Colonial Grill is the first one who created the Sili Ice Cream, and I must say, you must go ahead right now and try it!
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Read:
- Albay, Bicol: Of Majestic Mayon, Food, Luxury, Adventure, And More
- The Oriental Hotel Legazpi City Review
