Considering a quick weekend getaway outside Metro Manila? Here are Calamba Laguna tourist spots that you should check out!
Calamba, Laguna is considered as one of the busiest cities in the CALABARZON region because aside from it is a center of commerce, there are a lot of reasons to travel to the city. Calamba Laguna has a lot of tourist spots, including the hot spring resorts in Barangay Pansol, which are popular among locals but not from outside the region. Calamba Laguna tourist spots are very underrated and unheard of. However, recently, it has becoming one of the nearby road trip destinations of tourists going outside of Metro Manila because of its proximity and accessibility from the country’s National Capital Region.
Hence, it is only fair to give them a little exposure. It is also the gateway to the other parts of Laguna province. A lot of my relatives from the father side live in Laguna, so I go here frequently since I was a little girl but I never had the chance to actually tour around.
I tried going around Calamba to see its tourist spots and it feels weird to be treated as a tourist in this very familiar place. I just needed to give this city a justice, because as a travel blogger, I always take for granted all the places that are within my reach.
Considering that the city is only more than an hour away from Manila, I highly recommend that you check out what the city has to offer. Here are my list of the top three spots you should check out if you happen to travel to Calamba City, Laguna:
CALAMBA LAGUNA TOURIST SPOTS
Rizal Shrine
Rizal Shrine is the birthplace of the National Hero of the Philippines, Dr. Jose Rizal. The house resembles a typical stone house by a middle-class family during the Spanish Colonial Period. Upon visiting this, you will learn not only about the life of Dr. Jose Rizal but also the situation of the Philippines during the Spanish colonization. It is located along Mercado and Rizal Streets.
Calamba Claypot
Just near the Rizal Shrine is the Calamba Claypot. Also known as the Calambanga (Calamba + “banga” or claypot) or Calamba Jar, it is believed to be the largest claypot in the world. It was constructed to immortalize how the city got its name.
Calamba Church
Just near the Rizal Shrine and the Calamba Claypot is the St. John the Baptist Parish Church or the Calamba Church. It was known as the christening spot of Dr. Jose Rizal.
Where to Eat in Calamba, Laguna: OJ’s Brew
OJ’s Brew Calamba is my favorite go-to restaurant in the city. Aside from its quiet but accessible location, you can practically find almost all types of usual food items that you desire — from sandwiches to pasta to dessert. Oh, this restaurant is also travel-themed!
Lakeview Subd, 306 Ipil-ipil St, Calamba, 4027 Laguna
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Other Tourist Spots Near Calamba, Laguna
Lake Caliraya
This man-made lake is a popular destination for water sports such as kayaking, jet skiing, and wakeboarding.
Pansol Hot Springs
Calamba is famous for its hot springs, and Pansol is one of the most popular areas for hot spring resorts.
Mount Makiling
This is a popular hiking destination with several trails of varying difficulty levels. The mountain is also home to several species of flora and fauna.
Nuvali
Located on the outskirts of Calamba, Nuvali is a mixed-use development that features a lake, a park, and several retail and dining options.
Gat Tayaw Street
This historic street features well-preserved houses from the Spanish colonial period.