Home to one of the oldest universities in The Philippines, Naga City has a thriving student population. It’s younger crowd means there’s high energy nightlife to hit up, as well as a variety of lively cafes, restaurants and karaoke bars. Beyond education, Naga City is a hotspot for adventure tourism. From volcano hikes and rock climbing to mountain biking and scuba diving, Naga is an excellent base for exploring the adrenalin fuelled Bicol Region.

Things to do

Established in 1575, Naga City was founded by the Spanish. Its colonial roots shine through in the beautiful churches, cathedrals and shrines that dot the city. The Porta Mariae triumphal arch is a highlight, built to commemorate Our Lady of Peñafrancia.

Just a stone’s throw from the ocean, Naga City is a great base for visiting nearby beaches. Drenched in coastal charm, Pasacao Beach is fringed by the warm waters of the Ragay Gulf. Nearby Bagolatao is another popular pebble beach, loved by locals and visitors alike.

To the east is Mt Isarog National Park, home to Bicol’s second highest volcano. It covers a huge footprint and is full of tumbling waterfalls, bubbling hot springs and hiking trails.

Just 50 kilometres from Naga City is the remote Caramoan Peninsula. With its thick jungles and pristine beaches, it served as a filming location for multiple seasons of Survivor. If you want to escape the crowds and feel utterly shipwrecked, Caramoan is well worth the trip.

Getting around

Naga is serviced by its own airport, located in the neighbouring town of Pili. From Manila, the drive to Naga City takes around eight hours. Once in the city, taxis, local buses and colourful Filipino jeepneys are the easiest and fastest way to get around.