Best Places to Visit in Albay | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Albay Travel Guide
Quick overview of Albay with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Albay, Philippines! Located in the Bicol Region of the country, Albay is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Home to the iconic Mayon Volcano, known for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape, Albay boasts breathtaking landscapes that will leave you in awe. The province is also rich in history, with Spanish colonial architecture and centuries-old churches scattered throughout its towns. Whether you're an adventure seeker looking to hike up a volcano or a history enthusiast eager to explore the remnants of the past, Albay has something for everyone. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this remarkable province.
Albay Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Albay videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Albay in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![Albay Itinerary [9 Spots with Best Views of Mt. Mayon]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/mOiHVmyPZ14/hqdefault.jpg)
Travel Essentials
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Memory Foam Neck Pillow
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Universal Travel Adapter
Charge your gadgets anywhere in the world with this adapter. It's a must-have for travelers to keep phones and cameras ready to use.
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Packing Cubes
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Apple Air Tag
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3D Eye Mask
Sleep like a baby anywhere with a special anti-pressure eye mask. It blocks all light, so you can nap anytime, making it perfect for long trips.
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Portable Door Lock
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Foam Ear Plugs
Block out noise with ear plugs. They're great for quiet sleep on planes or in busy places, giving you your own quiet space.
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4 in 1 Travel Dispenser Bottle
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Power Bank
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Compression Socks
Wear compression socks to feel less tired on long trips. They are specially designed to apply pressure to your lower legs, helping to maintain blood flow, reduces swelling and cramping.
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Best Places To Visit in Albay
1. Legazpi City : Legazpi City is the capital of Albay and is known for its stunning views of the Mayon Volcano. Visitors can take a scenic drive to the Cagsawa Ruins, where the remains of a 16th-century church stand against the backdrop of the volcano. The city also offers a variety of restaurants serving local cuisine, such as Bicol Express and Pinangat.
2. Daraga : Daraga is a small town located just outside of Legazpi City. It is home to the Daraga Church, a beautiful baroque-style church built in the 18th century. Visitors can climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
3. Tabaco City : Tabaco City is a coastal city known for its black sand beaches and seafood. Visitors can take a boat ride to the nearby island of San Miguel, where they can relax on the beach or go snorkeling.
4. Camalig : Camalig is a town located at the foot of the Mayon Volcano. It is known for its traditional Filipino cuisine, particularly its spicy Bicol Express dish. Visitors can also visit the town's historic church, which was built in the 17th century.
5. Bacacay : Bacacay is a small town located on the coast of Albay. It is known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can go swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
6. Guinobatan : Guinobatan is a town located in the foothills of the Mayon Volcano. It is known for its hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. Visitors can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
7. Polangui : Polangui is a town located in the heart of Albay. It is known for its beautiful rice terraces, which are a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can also visit the town's historic church, which was built in the 18th century.
8. Ligao City : Ligao City is a small city located in the eastern part of Albay. It is known for its beautiful waterfalls, such as the Kawa-Kawa Falls and the Malinao Falls. Visitors can also visit the Ligao City Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
9. Tiwi : Tiwi is a town located on the coast of Albay. It is known for its hot springs, which are said to have therapeutic properties. Visitors can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean.
10. Malilipot : Malilipot is a small town located on the coast of Albay. It is known for its beautiful beaches, such as the Malilipot Beach and the Pinamuntugan Island Beach. Visitors can go swimming, snorkeling, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the scenery.
Hotels Map Of Albay
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Albay.
Tours And Activities In Albay
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Food & Drinks To Try In Albay
1. Bicol Express: This is a popular dish in Albay and throughout the Bicol region. It is a spicy pork stew cooked with coconut milk, shrimp paste, and chili peppers. The combination of flavors creates a rich and creamy dish that is a must-try for any visitor to Albay.
2. Pinangat: Another famous dish in Albay is Pinangat, which is made from taro leaves stuffed with a mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and spices. The stuffed leaves are then wrapped in gabi leaves and cooked in coconut milk. The result is a flavorful and tender dish that showcases the local ingredients and culinary traditions.
3. Laing: Laing is a dish made from dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, chili peppers, and spices. It is a staple in Bicolano cuisine and is known for its rich and creamy texture. The combination of the earthy taro leaves and the spicy coconut milk creates a unique and delicious flavor that is worth trying.
4. Pili Nuts: Albay is known for its pili nuts, which are native to the region. These nuts are often used in various dishes and desserts, but they are also delicious on their own. Pili nuts have a rich and buttery flavor, making them a popular snack for locals and tourists alike.
5. Sili Ice Cream: For those who enjoy a bit of spice in their desserts, Albay offers a unique treat - sili ice cream. This ice cream is made with chili peppers, giving it a spicy kick that is surprisingly refreshing. It may sound unusual, but it is definitely worth a try for adventurous foodies.
6. Bicol Express Pizza: Albay has put its own twist on the classic pizza by incorporating the flavors of Bicol Express. This pizza is topped with spicy pork, coconut milk, and chili peppers, creating a fusion of Italian and Bicolano cuisine. It is a must-try for pizza lovers looking for a unique and flavorful experience.
7. Ginataang Santol: Santol is a tropical fruit that is commonly used in Filipino cuisine. In Albay, it is often cooked in coconut milk, creating a dish called Ginataang Santol. The fruit's tangy flavor pairs well with the creamy coconut milk, resulting in a delicious and refreshing dish.
8. Buko Halo-Halo: Halo-Halo is a popular Filipino dessert, and in Albay, they have their own version called Buko Halo-Halo. This dessert is made with young coconut strips, sweetened fruits, jellies, and crushed ice, all topped with a scoop of ice cream. It is a refreshing and indulgent treat that is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
9. Sili Shake: For those who enjoy spicy drinks, Albay offers Sili Shake, a beverage made with chili peppers. It may sound intense, but the combination of the spicy peppers with the sweetness of the shake creates a unique and flavorful drink that is sure to awaken your taste buds.
10. Bicolano Coffee: Albay is also known for its locally grown coffee. Bicolano coffee is known for its strong and bold flavor, making it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts. Whether you prefer it black or with a touch of milk, trying Bicolano coffee is a must for any coffee lover visiting Albay.
Best Time To Visit Albay
The best time to visit Albay, Philippines is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This is when the region experiences less rainfall and more sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions that Albay has to offer. Additionally, the peak tourist season in Albay falls between January and March, when the famous Mayon Volcano is often at its most picturesque due to clear skies. However, it is important to note that Albay can still be visited during the wet season from May to October, but there is a higher chance of encountering rainy weather and typhoons during this time.
Flight Calendar For Albay
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Albay.
Transportation To Albay
There are several transportation options to Albay, Philippines.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Albay is Legazpi Airport (LGP), which is served by domestic airlines. From Manila, there are several daily flights to Legazpi. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
2. By Land: If you prefer to travel by land, you can take a bus from Manila to Albay. Several bus companies operate daily trips from Manila to Legazpi City, the capital of Albay. The travel time is around 10-12 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
3. By Sea: Another option is to take a ferry from Manila to Legazpi. There are regular ferry services that operate between the two cities. The travel time is longer compared to air or land travel, usually taking around 9-12 hours.
Once you arrive in Albay, you can use local transportation such as tricycles, jeepneys, or taxis to get around the province.
Book Albay Trip
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