Tops Lookout Cebu Transcentral Hwy Cebu City Cebu Philippines

Mount Busay of Lahug makes a spectacular backdrop for the Cebu city proper. Little do tourists know that the best view is actually the mountain itself. It is one of the best-kept secrets of the locals. No better venue provides this view than the Tops Lookout, which is better known in the area as “Tops”. Tops is a modernist, fortress-like viewing deck that provides breath-taking views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Fantastic views are seen of Mandaue, Cebu City, Mactan Island and even the coast of Bohol.  

Admission to the lookout is at 100 pesos. Food vendors are all lined up selling snacks, drinks and even beer for a cheap price! The best time to go there will be during late afternoons as you’ll be able to experience both daytime and nighttime views. The venue makes for great barbeque cook-outs for family and friends while they enjoy the view of the city. It also has a breath-taking and peaceful sunset as well.

The lookout point is about 10 kilometers from downtown Cebu. There are endless ways to get to the lookout, here are but some to consider:

1. The easiest way to get up to Tops is certainly by private car. Relatives or friends residing in Cebu will unquestionably be familiar on how to get up to the steep and winding road to the area.
2. Taxis are also a great option and will cost you around 800 to 1000 Pesos to get you to and from Tops Lookout. Some claim that it will take you around 600 Pesos from Escario St. to Tops. It is quite expensive as you will probably have to pay for the driver’s admission too. 
3. Taking Lahug jeepneys is another option. The only drawback is that these jeepneys get only within 500m from the actual lookout. You’ll have to walk the last and very steep 500 meters. Take a jeepney along Osmena Boulevard, North of Del Rosario. You may have to change jeepneys at Cebu Plaza Hotel. Make sure to find one that goes to Tops. This way will take up more time but will certainly save you a lot of money.
4. You can also take a jeepney to Lahug along Osmena Boulevard and ask to be dropped off at the J.Y Square Mall in Lahug. Look for a motorcycle to take you to Tops as they are usually waiting at the entrance of the mall’s parking area. This motorcycle will cost you a roundtrip of around 100 to 150 pesos, which includes waiting time. Brace yourself, though, as the ride is already an experience in itself.

Getting to the lookout requires going up a really steep mountain no matter the mode of transportation you take. You also have to do a 10-15 minute hike when you get to the parking area of the lookout. Nevertheless, there are countless ways to get to the Tops Lookout. The important thing is that you’ll get to marvel at the sight itself. Don’t forget to bring your camera for that perfect shot! 

Source: https://cushtravel.com/how-to-get-to-tops-lookout-cebu/