A Picturesque Escape: TOPS Busay

Some places don’t need filters, they are just adorable. I stayed in Cebu City for 4 days and decided to visit TOPS in Busay, Cebu. One word to describe it? “Picturesque!” I could not get over its view because when I was there, I could literally see the beauty of Cebu from above. It was indeed a peaceful escape.

When we arrived at the parking lot, we immediately took a cart ride. Even the view on our way to the top was jaw-dropping and it made me more excited. I’ve been there before, but it was evening and foggy, which was why I did not really appreciate it. But now, I had the opportunity to go there during daylight and it left me open-mouthed because I could clearly see the view of Cebu from above. It was so clear, open, and honest. I got to see everything –buildings below, the distant stretch of the sea, the silhouette of Mactan Island, and even the soft outlines of Bohol on the horizon were visible. It is a perfect place when you want to have a peaceful environment. It’s also a perfect place when you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the City or when you just want to escape from your own chaos.

We strolled around and I really enjoyed it. Aside from the amazing views, there are also mouth-watering restaurants—it made me starve just looking at their menu displayed outside. Of course, the menus displayed outside were so irresistible that we had to try even just one restaurant. We chose the Hawker Chan restaurant. All of their dishes look so good and budget-friendly. For ₱380.00 per head, we had a set meal consisting of: char siew (roast BBQ pork), steamed white rice with sauce, stir-fried noodles, sesame ball (dessert), prawn crackers, a side of wanton soup, and an iced tea. It was more than enough for ₱380.00. It also tasted really good, especially the sweet-savory BBQ pork.

Since our stomachs were so full, we decided to stroll again. There were really lots of restaurants and coffee shops there--if only we had enough money, we would definitely try it. We were fascinated by the view of Ski360, and guess what? We could not help but go there too! I have mentioned that the view of Cebu from TOPS was amazing but it was way more amazing when we experienced its 360° view. I could not really believe that I got to witness the beauty of Cebu from above. It was an amazing experience and a relaxing escape.

I am anticipating visiting there again but in a different version of it. I would love to go there while the sun is starting to set or rise—it would be lovely, right? Also, during nighttime, because the City lights will surely twinkle like fireflies, and the cold breeze will embrace me.

Have you been there too? If not, I am encouraging you to give yourself a break and visit TOPS Busay as a way to escape. It is really a must-go place. It is way more beautiful than you ever expected. If you want to relax, you can just sit on the bench while sipping on your favorite coffee. It is a good place to bring your loved ones to. The place is so cozy and all you can feel is peace. That was what I felt during my visit. It made me want to stay a little longer because the tranquility it offers is something different.

If you want to visit TOPS Busay, Cebu, the entrance fee is ₱100.00, and if you also want to experience the 360° view, the entrance fee is ₱50.00. Affordable, right?

If you do not know how to get there, this might help:
Take the official TOPS shuttle bus from IT Park
•Where to catch it: IT Park Transport Terminal on Geonzon Street, right across Ayala Central Bloc.
•Fares and what’s included: ₱200 round-trip shuttle + entrance fee.
•Operating hours: Buses run daily from about 7 AM to 3 AM, making it possible to visit anytime—even catch the sunrise or stay late