Tops Cebu: A Breathtaking View from the Crown of the City
Perched high in the hills of Busay, Tops Lookout—more commonly known as Tops Cebu—is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Queen City of the South. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle, Tops offers panoramic views, cool mountain air, and a place to pause and appreciate the beauty of Cebu.
🌄 What is Tops Cebu?
Tops is an open-air viewing deck located about 600 meters above sea level in Barangay Malubog, Busay. It overlooks the entire Metro Cebu area—from the bustling city streets of Cebu City to the coastal towns of Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu, all the way to the sparkling waters of the Cebu Strait. By day, you’ll enjoy scenic greens and cityscapes; by night, a mesmerizing sea of city lights.
🧱 Unique Architectur
One of Tops’ most striking features is its circular stone architecture, built in the 1980s using volcanic stones. The large concrete viewing deck is framed by curved stone arches that provide an almost medieval fortress feel. It’s spacious, airy, and Instagram-worthy—especially during sunset.
🌅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tops is during the late afternoon, so you can catch both the sunset and night views. Bring a light jacket or hoodie—the air gets chilly as the sun goes down. Locals often go up for dates, family bonding, or spontaneous road trips with friends.
🚗 How to Get There
Tops is around 30–40 minutes by car from Cebu City. You can get there by:
- Private car or motorcycle – the most convenient way
- Motorbike rental – popular among tourists
- Habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) – available from JY Square in Lahug
- Taxi or Grab – convenient, but make sure the driver agrees to a return trip
The road is winding but scenic, so the drive is part of the experience!
🍕 What to Do at Tops
- Take photos – capture epic cityscape shots and sunset moments
- Relax – enjoy the breeze and view from the concrete benches
- Snack or dine – there are small food stalls selling pizza, street food, and drinks
- Star-gaze – on clear nights, you can enjoy a sky full of stars
Tip: You can also find nearby cafés like La Vie in the Sky and Balay sa Busay for a more upscale dining experience with a view.
💰 Entrance Fee
As of recent updates:
- Entrance fee: ₱100 per person
- Open daily, generally from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Prices and schedules may change, so it’s best to check in advance if you’re planning a visit.
🌟 Why Visit Tops Cebu?
- It’s romantic – perfect for couples looking for a peaceful evening.
- It’s family-friendly – kids will enjoy the space and views.
- It’s refreshing – a break from the tropical heat of the city.
- It’s iconic – no Cebu trip is complete without a stop here!
Perched high in the hills of Busay, Tops Lookout—more commonly known as Tops Cebu—is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Queen City of the South. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle, Tops offers panoramic views, cool mountain air, and a place…