Taguig City Visitors Guide - Discover The Philippines (2024)

This brief guide to Taguig City will help you plan your trip. It contains information on what to do, eat, and drink as well as the must-see spots and the best hotels.

ABOUTSTAYBUDGETADVICE

ABOUT

Taguig is one of the cities comprising Metro Manila, officially called the National Capital Region and the country’s seat of the government. Of the 16 cities and one municipality of Metro Manila, Taguig is the 4th biggest in terms of population and 5th biggest in terms of land area.

It is a highly-urbanized city dotted with high-rise buildings housing hotels, cafes and restaurants, residential spaces, shopping centers, entertainment centers, and many other lifestyle centers. It has everything one will ever need to live a life in comfort, convenience, and style.

Location

Best Time to Visit

It’s best to visit the Philippines during the dry season. Dry season in the Philippines spans from November through April. These are the summer months in this country.

Be aware that temperatures and humidity levels are particularly high in April and May.

The best time to be a beach bum and explore the islands is from March to May.

TIP: This guide recommends that booking for Taguig City summer trips should be done as early as possible, at least a month before your travel dates, since resorts get fully booked early.

The period from June to October is the rainy (wet) season and is best avoided due to the high possibility of typhoons. The typhoons can not only be destructive, but most tours and activities are cancelled under such circ*mstances. Transportation via plane and boat is also seriously impacted as well. This happens frequently so beware!

This guide recommends traveling to Taguig City in April-May or in November-December, just before and just after the rainy season. This will likely bring fewer crowds, yet pleasant weather, and is also a great time to score a travel deal.

Fast Facts

Getting Here

There are many ways to get here depending on your starting point. This guide recommends using the following online tools to identify all the available options and cost for each while in Taguig City: Rome2Rio and PHBUS. The following are the major ports of entry for this destination.

Getting Around

The following are the modes of transportation available in Taguig City …

SEE & DO

The following is your guide to places to see and activities to enjoy while in Taguig City.

1 | Explore Bonifacio Global City

Bonifacio Global City, also known as BGC, Global City, or The Fort, is a sprawling financial and lifestyle district in Taguig City. It is home to residential buildings, hotels, office spaces, retail outlets, schools, restaurants, and a hospital. One of its development areas called Bonifacio High Street has landscaped areas and gorgeous parks where one can take a break from the busy city life.

Families can also find a massive play area with slides and monkey bars where children can expend their energies.

One of the things Taguig is known for, BGC used to be the main camp of the Philippine Army.

2 | See the McKinley Hills

Take a glimpse of Italy and Spain in the Philippines at McKinley Hills, a township development which features exclusive residences, offices, and upscale dining and leisure areas. It is where the Instagrammable Venice Grand Canal Mall, dubbed as the “most romantic mall in the country”, is located. The architecture and design of the mall is Venetian-inspired and highlights the manmade Grand Canal where guests can experience Italy’s famed gondola ride.

3 | Visit Libingan ng mga Bayani

Libingan ng mga Bayani (Hero’s Cemetery), is a national cemetery dedicated to thousands of Filipino soldiers during World War II and eventually for the deceased presidents of the Philippines and patriots as well as National Artists and Scientists. This well-maintained landmark has a view deck where you can see the green lawn dotted with perfectly-aligned white crosses. At the heart of the cemetery is a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and behind the structure are three pillars to represent the country’s three main island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The cemetery has several other structures such as the Heroes Memorial Gate and memorial pylons.

There are guided tours you can book but you can also visit the landmark on your own.

4 | Experience the serenity of Manila American Cemetery and Memorial

Apart from Libingan ng mga Bayani, another landmark in the city is the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. It is located on a 62-hectare plateau and houses 17,206 graves, the largest number of graves of US soldiers, sailors, and airmen that perished during World War II.

The headstones, which are mostly white crosses and a few six-pointed stars for the Jews, are aligned in eleven plots, with the plots forming a circular pattern. There’s a Visitor’s Building, circular fountain, and a memorial with mosaic maps and carved floors. The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial is a beautiful place to pay respects to those who helped liberate the Philippines during the war.

5 | Nourish your mind at the Mind Museum

A haven for science enthusiasts, The Mind Museum has world-class features with five main galleries each having its own theme which includes atom, life, earth, universe, and technology. Housed in the galleries are more than 250 interactive exhibits for a more interesting and exciting learning. There’s also a Botanical Garden as well as online workshops and walk-in programs for anyone interested.

6 | Walk around Burgos Circle and Forbestown Road

Take a walk around one of the city’s most popular dining hotspots – the Burgos Circle and Forbestown Road. There are pretty cafes with that Parisian vibe and Instagrammable streets lined with greenery. After your sightseeing, there are several dining options – from small cafes and al fresco dining to casual or formal dining.

7 | Party at the swanky clubs

With all the swanky clubs and bars in the city, you’d surely be tempted to party. You can spend a day at the Palace Pool Club and end the night at the Valkyrie Club just next door. With live DJs, a wide selection of drinks, and good food on top of huge dance floors, you surely will have a great time.

Another party spot in Taguig is Revel at the Palace where the country’s who’s who including celebrities, models, and businessmen hangout.

8 | Taste Japanese liquors at LIT Manila

LIT Manila is a bar serving Japanese liquors, particularly Japanese whisky. It’s actually not just any bar, it has the largest selection of Japanese spirits in the Philippines.

9 | Nearby destinations

Taguig City shares a border with the cities of Makati, Pasay, Pasig, and Parañaque. Like Taguig, these cities are highly-urbanized thus the number of dining, leisure, entertainment, and other business centers.

NOTE: The Sta. Anang Banak Taguig River Festival occurs annually in Taguig City every 26th July.

EAT & DRINK

The following is your guide to the flavorful food to enjoy and restaurants to try while in Taguig City.

1 | Locavore

Located in Forbes Town Center, Locavore serves traditional Filipino dishes with a French twist using locally grown and produced ingredients. It may have a dark and industrial exterior but its ambience is cozy and good. Bestsellers include lechon oyster sisig, sizzling sinigang, and sugpo con mayonesa.

2 | Manam Comfort Filipino Food

As the name implies, Manam serves authentic Filipino foods such as adobo, kare kare, and sisig. With its well-lighted and inviting ambience as well as excellent food quality, the restaurant is always packed with diners looking to satisfy their Filipino food cravings and those who want to taste traditional local foods.

3 | Samba

Introduce your taste buds to the flavors of Peru at Samba, the first Peruvian restaurant in Manila. Located at the 8th floor of Shangri-la Hotel, Samba takes pride in serving fresh and delightful food with unique flavors. The restaurant has a welcoming and comfortable ambience with both indoor and al fresco dining options. The must-try dishes include ceviche limeño, arroz con mariscos, anticuucho de pulpo, and lomo saltado. For dessert, try tres leches and merengado guanabana.

4 | Raging Bull Chophouse and Bar

Also located inside Shangri-la Hotel, Raging Bull Chophouse and Bar is a popular destination for excellent steaks and an extensive menu of wines and champagnes. This American steakhouse provides a large selection of dry-aged beef or grain-fed and grass-fed beef as well as grilled seafood and gourmet comfort food. Its price range is a bit high but it is definitely worth it considering the quality of food and service.

5 | Mamou

Mamou is a family-style restaurant serving home kitchen food. They are best known for their steaks which are USDA Prime Grade Porterhouse Steak and Angus Ribeye USDA Prime Grade Steak. Those who are looking for healthier options would love Healdsburg’s Harvest Salad and Linguine Vongole, a linguine in white clam sauce. The restaurant may be small but it has a good and relaxed ambience for that satisfying dining experience.

6 | Sariwon Korean Barbecue

One of the most sought-after restaurants in Korea and even recognized as the best Korean restaurant by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, bringing Sariwon to the Philippines is definitely a treat to Korean food lovers in the country. Sariwon is the best place in the city to enjoy authentic Korean favorites such as bulgogi and galbi. To complete the Korean dining experience, other trends such as tablet towels and the use of smokeless grill are also present in the restaurant. Don’t miss the seng galbi, Jeonju bibimbap, Deungsim Yangnyeom bulgogi, and sangria soju.

7 | Niu

Niu by Vikings offers a variety of cuisines which include Mediterranean, Chinese, Japanese, French, and Italian. Its comprehensive menu is made of the freshest and finest ingredients and cooked excellently for that delightful meal. The restaurant is big, accommodating nine food stations. Their sushi is a crowd favorite but their chuck eye steak and stuffed lechon belly are good, too.

8 | Yoree Korean Barbecue Dining

Yoree Korean Barbecue prides itself in providing authentic Korean favorites for all its customers. The restaurant offers two options for diners: a la carte and all-you-can-eat complete with rib eye steak and beef belly. They also have a selection of finest prime meats and drinks.

9 | Canton Road

Canton Road is your road to authentic Cantonese, Huaiyang, and Taiwanese cuisines. Its menu is quite extensive and some of the best dishes are fried lobster wanton, Macau crispy pork, Guangdong fire-roasted duck, and crispy wasabi-coated prawn ball.

The restaurant is located inside Shangri-la Hotel.

10 | Mango Tree

Living up to its tagline “Thai Cuisine at its best”, Mango Tree is the city’s best destination for authentic Thai dining experience. The restaurant serves the best dishes originating from all four regions of Thailand. The restaurant has sleek yet cozy interiors with impressive high ceilings and Thai-inspired decorations – all pleasant to the eyes. Some of their best dishes are chicken pandan, pad thai, and pomelo salad with prawns.

WHERE TO STAY

There are many different types of accommodations available in this destination ranging from hostels to luxurious resorts. The following is your guide to our top choices for each range in Taguig City.

1 | City Park Hotel Manila (Budget)

2 | MySpace Hotel & BGC (Mid-Range)

3 | F1 Hotel Manila (Luxury | Resort)

This guide recommends using the following sites to conduct research online of where to stay in Taguig City or for a specific destination:

Book your room with these trusted online booking sites. Booking online in the Philippines almost always guarantees the best price and a room when you arrive. We use these sites frequently to get the best prices and enjoy convenient bookings. Click each of the buttons below to find the best place for you at the lowest rates:

TIP: F1 Hotel Manila is the best property to experience this destination.

BUDGET

Suggested Budget

Use the chart below to get an idea of how much to budget daily. Actual amounts will depend on YOUR travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages … some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less. Prices are in USD.

Travel Costs

Accommodation

A bed in ahosteldorm costs from 350 PHP ($7 USD), but smaller dorms can cost from 500 PHP ($10 USD). For a private double, prices start around 700 PHP ($14 USD).

Mostbudget hotelsbegin at 700 PHP ($14 USD) per night for a double room and usually include free wifi and breakfast. Fora three-star hotel, prices begin around 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) per night.AirBnBis also widespread throughout the country, with private rooms starting from as little as 500 PHP ($10 USD) per night. For entire apartments, expect to pay at least 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) per night.

Resorts and luxury accommodationsvary greatly from 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) to 5,000+ PHP ($100+ USD). However, there are some really nice resorts and luxury accommodations which are surprisingly affordable.

We use and recommend booking online to save money usingHostelWorld,Agoda,Booking.com, andAirBnB.

Food

Local food is extremely cheap, with street food costing under 50 PHP ($1USD). For an inexpensive meal at a local restaurant, prices start around 100 PHP ($2 USD). For a meal at a mid-range restaurant with drinks and table service, expect to pay from 200 PHP ($4 USD). Knowing that their target customers are primarily tourists, Western food venues can be pricey compared to Filipino food. Also, some of the ingredients need to be imported, which contributes to the higher cost. Western food (burgers, pizza, pasta, etc.) is much more expensive but is still relatively affordable at around 200 PHP ($4 USD) for a meal and drink.

Fast food like McDonalds will cost around 200 PHP ($4 USD). A beer at the bar will cost around 50-100 PHP ($1–2 USD).

A week’s worth of groceries will cost between 300-600 PHP ($6-12 USD) per person. However, food in this country is so inexpensive, and kitchens & refrigerators are hard to come by, I don’t recommend cooking your meals here since there is plenty of delicious street food to eat at very cheap prices. You won’t make it as good as they do and the food is too delicious to miss!

Transportation

There are many modes of transportation available in the Philippines and each varies greatly.

Public Transportation is cheap. Bus services on the islands are inexpensive. Local buses (called jeepneys) are the most common type of transportation in towns and cities. The fare is usually between 7-25 PHP ($.20–.50 USD).

On islands without a bus system, a taxi or tricycle is the only form of transport with fares starting at 50-500 PHP ($1-$10) USD for short trips.

Taxis are everywhere, and they’re very cheap. Most fares shouldn’t cost you more than 500 PHP ($10 USD) around town.

To get between islands, you’ll need to take a boat or to fly. There are ferries that connect the island together since they aren’t too far apart but, generally speaking, flights are the most realistic option.

Flights between islands usually cost about 2,000-3500 PHP ($40-70 USD). However, this isn’t the cheapest way to travel. It’s only recommended if you have limited time.

We recommend booking online to save money using:Skyscanner,momondo,Kayak,kiwi.com.

Attractions & Activities

Most attractions and activities in the Philippines are pretty cheap. Most attractions throughout the area are FREE to enter, though some of the more well known and popular ones cost 5-100 PHP ($.10-$2 USD) to enter.

Depending on the activity, most day tours only cost around 1,000-1,500 PHP ($20-30 USD), oftentimes less. You have more bargaining power if you go with a group. If you are expecting to do some climbing, remember to pack some warm layers. It gets cold at the top!

Other activities such as Island Hopping, scuba diving, helmet diving, swimming with whale sharks, jungle trekking, canyoning, ATVs, jet skis, wakeboarding, cruises, parasailing, horseback riding, cultural experiences, and tours can cost as much as 1,250-5,000+ PHP ($25-100+ USD).

The Philippines is one of the least expensive places to learn how to scuba dive. Learning to scuba dive usually costs about 15,000-20,000 PHP ($300-400 USD), but often includes FREE accommodation for the duration of the course, which lasts three or four days.

Always book your tours and activities when you arrive. Stick to travel agents who are selling on the ground. If a travel agent won’t negotiate with you, move on to the next until you find one that will. Booking tours online is almost always more expensive.

Typical Costs in Taguig City in 2023:

• Hostel Dorm Bed: 250-350 PHP ($5–7 USD) night
• Budget Hotel: 700 PHP ($14 USD) night
• Mid-Range Hotel: 1500 PHP ($31 USD) night
• Street Food: 50-150 PHP ($1–3 USD) meal
• Restaurant Meals: 200-300 PHP ($4–6 USD) meal
• Local Beer: 50-100 PHP ($1–2 USD) bottle
• 1.5L Bottle of Water: 38 PHP ($.75 USD) bottle
• Jeepney Ride: 7-25 PHP ($.20–.50 USD) ride
• Tricycle Ride: 20-100 PHP ($.5-2 USD) ride
• Taxi: 75-500 PHP ($1.50-10 USD) ride – use GrabTaxi app
• Long-Distance Bus Ride: 400-500 PHP ($8–10 USD) ride
• Public Ferry Ride: 200-300 PHP ($4–6 USD) ride
• Domestic Flight: 2,000-3,500 PHP ($40–70 USD) flight

DOWNLOAD: Budget Planner Template

ADVICE

The following is some of our best advice on traveling to Taguig City. Learn what you need to know BEFORE you go!

Tips & Hacks

he following are our Top 10 Tips when visiting this destination in the Philippines:

• Be aware that a tourist VISA is only 30 days. You can extend it upon arrival, or within the first 30 days, for an additional 30 days for a fee of approximately 3,000 pesos.
• Don’t buy into the fear factor. The Philippines has an unjustified reputation of being a dangerous place. It’s true there are security guards everywhere, but that is to deter theft.
• Manila is NOT the Philippines. Get outside of the cities to see the real Philippines.
• Don’t over plan. Boats, buses, and even airplane schedules are notoriously unreliable. Be flexible.
• Check the weather. The weather varies greatly throughout the Philippines daily.
• Typhoons can have a huge impact on your plans. Account for this when planning your trip.
• It’s not cool to raise your voice or show outward frustration in public.
• Be polite at all times. Realize that your country’s sense of humor may be different from Filipino humor and take this into account when interacting with Filipinos and while in public places.
• Things move at a slower pace. Accept it … don’t get frustrated … but do account for it.
• Don’t drink the tap water… but stay hydrated! Save money by buying large bottles (6-10 liters) of water and using it to fill your water bottle or hydration bladder in your backpack.

For a complete list of our travel tips & hacks, check out the following guide and be sure to download a FREE copy for yourself.

VIEW & DOWNLOAD:

Money Matters

The Philippines has its own currency called the Philippine Peso. Banks, ATMs, and money-changers can be found on the island. If you are exploring the neighboring islands or provinces, make sure to bring enough cash that will last until the next time you get to an ATM or bank since most tours, transportation, and budget accommodations only accept cash.

READ MORE: Money in the Philippines: Everything You Need to Know

Health & Safety

Crime

While overall the Philippines is a safe country to visit, as is Taguig City, you need to use common sense just as you would in any country, especially when traveling, and in a city, town, or area you are unfamiliar with.

Consult your hotel or resort front desk as they are more likely to give you reliable information than a random stranger on the street. Be careful when approaching strangers and selective about who you approach. Always pay attention to your gut feeling and follow it.

READ MORE:

Safety

There are many things to consider when traveling in order to stay safe … things that we may not be accustomed to during our normal everyday lives.The following are articles about tips on how to stay safe while traveling in the Philippines:

• 6 Common Accidents to Avoid
• How to Beat the Heat in the Philippines
• Taxi Safety Tips: Dos and Don’ts
• Motorbike Safety Tips
• Sun Safety Tips

TIP: The best way to avoid problems and stay safe is to travel with a local resident.

Health

Staying fit & healthy can be challenging when traveling in the Philippines.

The tropical Philippines climate requires you to prepare for illnesses that you may not normally be accustomed to.

The following are our Top 10 Tips for Staying Healthy while Traveling in the Philippines:

• Maintain a Balanced Diet
• Stay Hydrated but Only Drink Bottled Water
• Get Plenty of Rest
• Allow Your Body Time to Adjust
• Keep Active
• Sanitize Often
• Be Aware of Food Safety Concerns
• Take Your Vitamins
• Practice Safe Sex
• Be Prepared Should You Get Sick

READ MORE: Stay Healthy in the Philippines: How to Avoid Getting Sick

Staying Connected

You need to have a local-based SIM card in order to stay connected when in the Philippines. Network giants such as Globe and Smart have SIM cards you can use to make calls, send text messages, and also to connect to the Internet. A SIM card costs around 50 PHP ($1 USD) and usually comes with a FREE load worth 50 PHP ($1 USD). You can buy a card containing a code you can enter on your phone to replenish your load or buy an electronic load that is available almost anywhere in the city.

While you may not have problems with signal strength when in the city, it is not always the case when on islands or in remote areas of a province. So when arranging for transportation pick up, say when renting a boat to take you to and pick you up from the island, it would be best that you make it clear what time you need to be picked up before the boatman leaves.

Recommended Travel Apps

Apps for smartphones and tablets can be useful both before you leave and while you’re traveling. Most are available for iPhones and Android phones.

The following are our Top 10 most useful travel apps on our smartphones when traveling in the Philippines:

1. Grab (taxis/ride shares)
2. Angkas (motorbike ride-hailing)
3. WhatsApp (phone calls)
4. Skyscanner (flights)
5. Rome2Rio (transportation)
6. Agoda (accomodations)
7. Booking.com (accomodations)
8. AirBnB (accomodations)
9. Traveloka (flights, accomodations, activities)
10. Klook (attractions & activities )

Be certain to download and set up apps BEFORE leaving on your trip to make certain each is installed and working properly.

For our complete list of travel apps that we use and recommend while traveling in the Philippines, checkout our checklist below. Download a FREE copy for yourself as a PDF.

READ MORE: The Ultimate List of Travel Apps for the Philippines

Itinerary

Trying to decide what to do when traveling to a destination for the first time can be a bit overwhelming given your lack of familiarity with the place along with all of the available options.

We’ve created the following itinerary to help simplify the process and ensure that you get the most out of your trip. Although we provide a 7 day itinerary for this destination, it can always be adjusted to fit the length of your trip.

VIEW: Taguig City 7-Day Travel Itinerary

Packing Checklist

The secret to a successful and stress-free trip is to start by using a packing list. This will reduce anxiety from the start and ensure that nothing important is forgotten when packing. To make this process easy for you, we’ve created a detailed packing list. Click the link below to download it for FREE now.

Carrying your checklist with you during your travels can be useful when repacking, by helping to ensure that you do not leave anything behind.

VIEW & DOWNLOAD:

Things to Remember

This guide recommends to take note of the following while traveling in Taguig City or in the Philippines in general.

Smoking

There is a nationwide ban which prohibits smoking in public places including indoors, the streets, on sidewalks, in restaurants , and on public transportation, requiring smokers to use designated smoking areas. Selling tobacco to and purchasing from or for minors is also prohibited. Violators are subject to fines (up to 5,000 PHP | $100 USD) and even 4 months in prison.

Alcohol

The minimum legal drinking age is 18. Alcohol such as beer and hard drinks can easily be bought in grocery and convenience stores. The most common alcoholic beverage is beer, generally served cold. Local alcoholic drinks include tuba (coconut wine which is usually very strong) and potent moonshine-like clear liquors made from sugar or fruit. Imported beer, wine, and name brand hard alcohol are available but expensive.

Drugs

Drugs are illegal in the Philippines. Don’t use, buy, or sell any non-prescription drugs while in the Philippines … not even marijuana. It is considered an especially heinous crime to buy from, for, or sell drugs to children. The penalties are severe … up to and including death.

Nudity

Public nudity is illegal in the Philippines and is not tolerated. Most locals consider it offensive. There are laws which prohibit provocative and erotic clothing and swimwear, therefore carefully consider your clothings and swimwear choices to make certain they are not too revealing.

Foreigners & Expats

If you are not a Filipino citizen, remember that you are a guest when visiting this country … be certain to act accordingly. Respect the people, their customs, and the environment and wlidlife. You can be deported and banned … so behave … but have fun and enjoy all that this wonderful destination has to offer.

READ MORE: Practical Information about the Philippines

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

CLICK FOR MORE TRAVEL GEAR

Don’t Forget …

Download Our FREE Travel Guides

We have dozens of guides to destinations throughout the Philippines. Download your FREE copy for your next trip today.

DOWNLOAD GUIDES