Two hours from Metro Manila, Tagaytay serves as the city’s green lungs, offering instant relief from the concrete jungle — much like a trip to Margate from London or heading upstate from New York.
Every weekend, this lakeside town draws in locals looking to escape the busy city along with its crucifying humidity and endless traffic. But figuring out where to stay in Tagaytay is not as easy as it might seem, especially since the town is spread across a hilly rural area.
As with any place, where you stay can make or break your trip. And that’s where I come in! I really figured out the lay of the land during my first visit. After much trial and error… and subsequent visits, I reckon I’ve got it sussed!
I’ve split the city into four major neighbourhoods and areas and picked out some of the most epic places to stay in each location.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Tagaytay?
- Tagaytay Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Tagaytay
- Tagaytay’s Four Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Where to Stay in Tagaytay
- What To Pack For Tagaytay
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Tagaytay
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Tagaytay
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Tagaytay?
So, when you get to Tagaytay, you’ll find to find the best place to stay based on the activities you want to get up to! You’ll notice that Tagatay attracts lots of local tourists (as well as foreigners) as it’s just a short visit from Manila.
In this article, I’ll dive into the best areas to stay – including the best accommodation and things to do in each. However, if you’re short on time, here are my top 3 places to stay in Tagaytay…
Anya Resort Tagaytay | Best Luxury Resort in Tagaytay
If a high-end resort is your vibe, this lush and well-maintained property in Sungay North is as stunning as it gets. Choose from junior king suites to garden suites, some of which even have their own self-catering facilities.
The breakfast buffet at this luxurious place to stay in Tagaytay seals the deal for me. The food is delicious, the ambience is relaxed, and the staff are friendly.
Apartment with Balcony | Best Affordable Accommodation In Tagaytay
If you want an affordable and stylish Airbnb in a safe neighbourhood, this Swiss and Japanese-inspired cabin is perfectly suitable for two to three guests. It’s in the idyllic Crosswinds neighbourhood between Sungay North and the Highlands, so you’ll be a short stroll from plenty of dining options.
It’s self-catering, has a balcony, and is fitted with a huge TV with premium streaming accounts.
Two-Bed A-Frame Cabin | Best Airbnb in Tagaytay
This two-bedroom cabin is one of the most exciting places to stay. It feels totally removed from the buzz of the city but is pretty much right in the heart of it. Perfectly manicured tropical gardens line the path to the home, which has been stylishly decorated with a modern flair.
Extra luxuries (for a fee) include breakfast, BBQ and bonfire sets, massage treatments, and even a floating breakfast offering!
Tagaytay Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Tagaytay
Silang Junction (South and North)
Silang Junction (not to be confused with the town of Silang) is bang-smack in the middle of the action at the intersection of the city’s two main roads, making it a convenient home base.
Mendez Crossing
Mendez Crossing is still very much part of the action, just with some more affordable accommodation options thrown in the mix. It is located at the crossroads between the Tagaytay Nasugbu Highway and the Mendez – Tagaytay Road – hence its name.
Sungay North
Sungay North and Francisco are two adjacent Tagaytay neighborhoods on the city’s eastern borders. They offer the perfect balance between being close to the city yet also removed from the bustle, with easy access to the highlands.
The Tagaytay Highlands and Meridian
The Highlands and Meridian area are considered prime property. Here you will find the resorts, golf courses, fitness clubs, spas, and lodges Tagaytay is famous for. These green hilly parts are known for themed residential communities.
When I first visited Tagaytay during my first backpacking trip around Southeast Asia, I had no idea what to expect. All I remember is that I was blown away by how lush and spread out the city was. To put it simply, the town is made up of various neighbourhoods that each cater to different types of travellers. The area isn’t too large, but it can be tough to navigate.
Tagaytay is centered around the Olivarez Plaza, which is bordered by Silang Junction, San Jose, and Maitim. I still find it slightly confusing to differentiate these central city areas. Since they all meet, you can consider each an extension of the next. I reckon this is the most well-connected area, making it a great option for first-time visitors and solo travellers in the Philippines.
Further west, a small neighbourhood called Mendez Crossing is considered the best budget place to stay in Tagaytay. It all makes sense when you realize it is named after the Mendez Tagaytay Road that crosses through the neighbourhood. It’s still close to the beating heart of Silang Junction but is far enough out to be significantly more affordable.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Heading east, Sungay North and Francisco are two neighbouring areas on the eastern boundaries of Tagaytay. They’re home to some of the most beautiful homes and accommodations. Although not the cheapest, this is a quiet and safe area for families.
Even further east, the Tagaytay Highlands are the poster child for the region, home to some of the most lavish homes, gated communities, and luxurious gold estates. But don’t worry, it’s not as pompous as it seems.
Not included in this list, Maharlika East is a great neighbourhood for nature lovers. It’s practically bordering on the wild mountains. Narra Road is an excellent choice for wellness seekers, and Magallanes Drive is pretty much designed for the passionate foodie- it’s another great place to stay while backpacking in The Philippines.
I mean ok, this isn’t a hotspot for diving in the Philippines, but there’s a stunning lake and volcano here!
Tagaytay’s Four Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
If you’re feeling overwhelmed trying to decide where to stay in this hilly, expansive area, I’m here to help. I’ve put together a list of the top four neighbourhoods and areas for different types of travellers and topped it off with a few recommendations for Tagaytay’s top accommodations.
1. Silang Junction (South and North) – Where to Stay in Tagaytay for Your First Time
If you just can’t decide where to stay in Tagaytay, Silang Junction (not to be confused with the town of Silang) is bang-smack in the middle of the action. It’s at the intersection of the city’s two main roads, making it a convenient home base. The neighbourhood extends north into Maitim Central – known for nightlife, west into North Silang, and east into San Jose.
Here, you will find the highest density of homes and accommodation, as well as the best restaurants, markets, and public transport stations. Silang Junction South is slightly more rugged, following the Tagaytay-Talisay Road towards the Taal Lake.
Royale Parc Hotel Tagaytay | Best Hotel in Silang Junction
This hotel is simple, chic, and, quite frankly, overqualified with amenities for such a budget-friendly hotel in Tagaytay. I was most impressed with the breakfast offering and the swimming pool. Set in a courtyard setting, most of the rooms gaze down onto this pool area, which has a hot tub and a floating island section with comfy loungers.
Staycation at Ayala Serin | Best Affordable Aparthotel in Silang Junction
If you’re wondering where to stay in Tagaytay’s Silang Junction for a low price per night, you won’t be disappointed with this place. Don’t expect much: It’s simple yet spacious, with good natural light, stylish touches of decor, and even a window overlooking the lake.
Value for money is this place’s best feature, but its central location along the main road in Silang Junction doesn’t hurt its chances, either.
Two-Bed A-Frame Cabin | Best Cabin in Silang Junction
There is something about an A-frame cabin that immediately puts me in holiday mode. With its string lighting, massive glass walls, and landscaped tropical garden, this one is no different.
The interior is just as impressive, with a modern kitchen with marble countertops, Smeg appliances, and moody lighting to set a typical cabin scene.
Rustic Chalet in the Jungle | Best Luxury Airbnb in Silang Junction
There is not much wrong I can say about this chalet in Silang Junction. It’s located in a jungle setting between San Jose and Silang Junction South, which means it has exceptional views of the Taal Lake and the volcano.
The space is beautifully decorated with wooden and terracotta floors and antique furniture. My favourite part of this house has to be the terrace, which feels like it is floating above the trees. Bring along your best travel camera because this rustic home is SUPER Insta-worthy.
Things to See and Do in Silang Junction
- Join a generic Tagaytay tour
- Drive the winding Tagaytay-Talisay Road to tour Taal Lake and the volcano
- Visit Fantasy World with your children
- Take a boat trip on the Taal Lake
- Dine farm-to-fork at the Farmer’s Table Tagaytay
- Do some retail therapy at the Ayala Malls Serin
- Stroll around Olivarez Plaza for a local market experience
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Mendez Crossing – Best Place to Stay in Tagaytay on a Budget
Only a short drive west of the town centre, Mendez Crossing is still very much part of the action, just with some more affordable accommodation options thrown in the mix. It is located at the crossroads between the Tagaytay Nasugbu Highway and the Mendez – Tagaytay Road – hence its name. It is also convenient because it is well connected by public transport.
If you’re travelling on a budget, this is a great area to stay in. It’s a small residential Tagaytay neighbourhood that marks the edge of the city. Driving further west, there are plenty of more suburban neighbourhoods where you can find different event venues and gardens to explore.
Hotel Monticello Tagaytay | Best Hotel in Mendez Crossing
Set in the heart of the Mendez Crossing neighbourhood in Tagaytay, you’ll enjoy this space if you like staying in a reliable hotel with traditional facilities.
I would consider this hotel above average, with a delicious breakfast included in the rate, a pool and a gym, an on-site spa and wellness centre, and even a restaurant that offers room service. There is no reason not to keep fit while you travel if you stay here!
Stylish Suite at La Bella | Best Private Room in Mendez Crossing
Although it isn’t entirely private, this Airbnb’s gorgeous gardens, low price per night, and stylish interiors make up for it. It’s located in a local condo and comprises a fully private bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. The space is beautifully designed, with a calming sponged wall paint feature, warm wooden furniture, and baby blue cabinetry.
Guests also have access to the shared pool and gardens.
Pet-Friendly Condo | Best Condo in Mendez Crossing
Staying here feels like spending the night in a close family member’s home – and I love it. It feels wonderfully homey, with a unique lime green wall colour, warm lighting, and more floor space than you’d expect from a condo in Mendez Crossing.
The space has a balcony with gorgeous views across the property gardens. It’s also one of the few pet-friendly Airbnbs in the area, so you can bring your pet along without breaking the bank.
Three-Bed Home with Pool | Best Family-Friendly Villa in Mendez Crossing
As far as family-friendly homes go, this one ticks all the boxes. This space has everything you might need to cater to a group. And by this, I mean a huge kitchen and dining space, a games room with a TV, board games, books, and even karaoke for an added fee. Plus, a huge pool that sits half in the shade and half in the sun.
Things to See and Do in Mendez Crossing
Photo: @rhenzcape
- Start your morning with a coffee at Sip n’Brew by Miara Cafe
- Bring your kids to the Sky Ranch Amusement Park and ride the Sky Eye Ferris Wheel
- Stroll through the Fernwood Gardens
- Tend to some emails at The View Restaurant and Cafe
- Give your kids a taste of Christmas year-round at The Gingerbread House
- Explore the gardens at Le Jardin Rosella
- Take your kids strawberry picking at the Queens Strawberry Farm
3. Sungay North – Best Neighbourhood in Tagaytay for Families to Stay In
Sungay North and Francisco are two adjacent Tagaytay neighbourhoods on the city’s eastern borders. They offer the perfect balance between being close to the city yet also removed from the bustle, with easy access to the highlands.
It’s quiet and peaceful here, with great options for family-friendly accommodation. You won’t have to travel too far to find a great restaurant or a beautiful picnic spot. Since most residents live here full-time, there is a distinctively local atmosphere. It is a beautiful place to stay in the Philippines.
Casitas Inn Tagaytay Co | Best Budget Inn in Sungay North
If you’re looking for the most affordable place to stay in Sungay North, this is it. It’s a super basic inn, with room options ranging from standard double rooms to deluxe family rooms that can fit up to six guests. The accommodation has a local feel, decorated with authentic Filipino carved furniture and artwork.
Anya Resort Tagaytay | Best Luxury Resort in Sungay North
If a high-end resort is your vibe, this lush and well-maintained property is as stunning as it gets. Choose from junior king suites to garden suites, some of which even have their own self-catering facilities.
The breakfast buffet at this luxurious place to stay in Tagaytay seals the deal for me. The food is delicious, the ambience is relaxed, and the staff are friendly.
Apartment with Balcony | Best Condo in Sungay North
Perfect for two guests (or even three at a squeeze), this condo is inspired by a combination of a Swiss cabin and a Japanese home. The standout features are the tan leather couch, dark wooden walls, and zen room divider that separates the bedroom from the living space.
Amberfields Farmhouse | Best Private Villa in Sungay North
The Amberfields Farmhouse is my favourite on this list because of its huge outdoor yard and pool with a covered lapa. But this is no ordinary lapa; it’s a lapa with its own full outdoor kitchen, BBQ, and dining table. Say no more…
Great for groups and families, the home also has a games room with a pool table and is available to rent as an event venue for intimate weddings and celebrations.
Things to See and Do in Sungay North
Photo: @rhenzcape
- Admire the glass sculptures at the Museo Orlina
- Join a tour of the Hidden Valley with its rivers and waterfalls
- Spend a day soaking in a tub at La Very Ol’s Mountain View Garden Spa
- Walk through the Tagaytay Public Market to grab some fresh local produce
- If you’re a digital nomad, get some work done at Kubli Cafe Bistro
- Pack a picnic and spend a day at the Tagaytay Picnic Grove
- Take your kids to the Puzzle Mansion
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. The Tagaytay Highlands and Meridian – Best Area in Tagaytay for Golfers
If you’re wondering where to stay in Tagaytay, The Highlands and Meridian area are considered prime property. Here you will find the resorts, golf courses, fitness clubs, spas, and lodges Tagaytay is famous for. These green hilly parts are known for themed residential communities.
It’s a bit hard to know where one community ends and the next begins, but it is worth mentioning that the accommodation recommendations in the highlands are a little bit off the beaten track. While they are just a short drive into the heart of town, I do recommend hiring a car to make sure you can easily get around.
Alpine Breeze at Crosswinds | Best Resort in Tagaytay Highlands and The Meridian
The Highlands are known for their themed resorts, which, other than being located in the lush mountains, offer a unique accommodation experience. Crosswinds Tagaytay is inspired by Alpine homes, with a mix of cabins, Tudor homes, and Alpine condos lining the streets.
This family-sized suite with a balcony is fully self-catering and includes access to eight different restaurants and free parking.
Colourful Two-Bed Condo | Best Condo in Tagaytay Highlands and The Meridian
Mid-century style meets Spanish interiors at this playful condo. The best times of day here are morning and sunset, when sunshine streams through the windows and illuminates the space.
Arched doorways, colourful abstract wallpaper, and low velvet couches are a slice of what you can expect from this top place to stay in Tagaytay.
The Red Cabin | Best Luxury Cabin in Tagaytay Highlands and The Meridian
The Red Cabin is one of those Airbnbs that really stands out from the rest. It’s inspired by an American barn and is snuggled between lush palms and a landscaped yard.
The interior is just as charming, with wood flowing throughout the space, from the floors to the walls to the ceilings. Big sliding barn doors separate spaces and there is even a dipping pool in the backyard.
Gabby’s Farm at Villa Narra | Best Farmstay in Tagaytay Highlands and The Meridian
Although it’s a bit out in the sticks in the highlands, this three-bedroom farm stay has stunning views of Mount Makiling, Laguna de Bay, and Tagaytay Ridge.
The accommodation is stylish and well-equipped, but it’s the nature trail that winds through the cacao trees near the property that has me wanting to book this home.
Things to See and Do in The Tagaytay Highlands and Meridian
- Check out the views from the Peoples Park in the Sky
- Play a round of golf at the Tagaytay Highlands Golf Course
- Go bowling at The Sports Center at Tagaytay Highlands
- Take a picnic to the Crosswinds Mini Park
- Take your kids ziplining at the Sta. Elena Fun Farm
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Tagaytay
Do you still want to know a little more? Well I’ve gone ahead and put together a list of the most frequently asked questions below, hopefully that covers it.
What To Pack For Tagaytay
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Tagaytay
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Tagaytay.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Tagaytay
The fact that Tagaytay hasn’t yet blown up on the international tourist radar is frankly perplexing, but it’s also one of its most alluring features. So get in there and enjoy it whilst you can because it’s going to be the next big place for sure.
The best way to keep things authentically local is to, well – keep things local. This is one of the big reasons why I always love staying in an Airbnb, because it gives me to opportunity to base myself shoulder to shoulder with those who live here. But equally, there are plenty of different options.
Each of the best places to stay in Tagaytay offers a different experience for visitors. Silang Junction and the Mendez Crossing are inner-city neighbourhoods suitable for anyone eager to explore the city’s culture.
On the other hand, the Tagaytay Highlands and Sungay North are slightly further from the city centre and are perfect for anyone looking for a respite from the city.
If it’s unique accommodation you are looking for, you’ll want to check out this unique Red Cabin in the Highlands and this A-Frame in Silang Junction.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Philippines.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the amazing hostels in the Philippines.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
