Perched majestically atop a mountain peak in Busay, high above the bustling Cebu metropolis, lies The Circle at Tops, a name synonymous with one of the most iconic and breathtaking views in the entire province. Formerly known as Tops Lookout, this destination has long been a pilgrimage site for both locals and tourists seeking a moment of peace, a breath of fresh, cool air, and a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Cebu City, Mactan Island, and the surrounding seascape.
A visit to Tops is more than just a trip to a viewpoint; it is an immersive experience that transitions from a sun-drenched spectacle to a twinkling canvas of a million city lights, offering a unique perspective on the “Queen City of the South.”
The journey to Tops is part of the experience itself. The winding, uphill road from the city proper is a scenic route that gradually reveals a different side of Cebu. The urban landscape gives way to lush, green mountainsides, and the air becomes noticeably cooler and fresher with every ascending kilometer. The road is a testament to the area’s growing popularity, lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and other establishments that have sprouted to cater to the constant flow of travelers. This creates a lively atmosphere that builds anticipation for the main event at the summit.
Upon arrival at the circular stone fortress of Tops, you are immediately greeted by a sense of awe. The main viewing deck, a circular stone structure, provides an uninterrupted view from all sides. During the day, the vista is a grand spectacle of urban sprawl. You can clearly see the intricate grid of the city, the bridges connecting mainland Cebu to Mactan Island, and the blue expanse of the sea beyond. On a clear day, the view extends to the neighboring islands of Bohol and Olango, a reminder of the Philippines’ archipelagic beauty. The cool breeze is a welcome relief from the tropical heat of the lowlands, and the relative quiet provides a perfect escape from the city’s constant noise.
But it is at night that Tops truly comes alive. As the sun sets, painting the sky in a palette of fiery oranges, pinks, and purples, the city below undergoes a magical transformation. The urban lights flicker on, one by one, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of twinkling jewels. The view becomes a living map, with the streetlights and building lights tracing the city’s veins and arteries. The contrast between the silent, dark sky above and the vibrant, bustling city below is a humbling and profound experience. This is the moment that makes a visit to Tops unforgettable. Couples, friends, and families gather at the stone wall, sharing a quiet moment as they take in the breathtaking scene.
Best times to visit
Late Afternoon (4 PM – 6 PM): This is arguably the best time to visit. You get to see the city in the daylight, witness the spectacular sunset, and then watch as the city lights up. This provides a full range of experiences in one visit.
Nighttime: For those who want the full, dramatic view of the twinkling city lights, a nighttime visit is a must. The atmosphere is cooler, more romantic, and incredibly serene.
Sunrise: For early risers, a sunrise visit offers a different kind of beauty. The cool morning air, the soft light as it breaks over the horizon, and the gradual awakening of the city below is a peaceful and magical experience.
Restaurants and dining options
Cebu’s “The Circle at TOPS” has transformed the experience from a simple viewpoint into a comprehensive dining and lifestyle destination. The once-basic platform now features a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering visitors a curated selection of food and drinks to enjoy alongside the breathtaking city panorama.
The food options at The Circle cater to virtually every palate, with a mix of Filipino, Asian, and Western cuisines. Here are some of the key restaurants and their offerings:
- Mimoy’s Grill: This establishment specializes in Filipino comfort food with a focus on grilled items. It’s a great place to enjoy classic Filipino barbecue, a hearty bowl of bulalo (beef shank soup), and other grilled favorites while soaking in the refreshing mountain breeze and the panoramic views.
- Lolo Pinoy’s Grill: A must-try for any visitor, Lolo Pinoy’s offers a modern twist on classic Cebuano barbecue. Their menu features a variety of grilled dishes, including pork, chicken, and beef, all made with a secret family recipe. It’s a chance to enjoy an authentic local favorite in a cozy, sit-down dining experience.
- Top of Cebu: This is one of the most well-known and premier dining destinations at the summit. As the name suggests, it provides a classy dining experience with a focus on contemporary Filipino cuisine. They serve a range of dishes, from rich, flavorful sinigang to crispy pata and grilled seafood, all complemented by a spectacular view.
- Queens Pizza and Burger Bar: For those craving American comfort food, these spots offer classic favorites. Queens Pizza serves New York-style pizzas, while Burger Bar offers satisfying burgers and fries. These casual eateries are perfect for families and groups looking for a quick and familiar meal.
- Moo Krata Thai Shabu Shabu Grill and Celadon: For a taste of Asia, these restaurants offer authentic Thai cuisine. Guests can enjoy the interactive experience of Moo Krata (a Thai-style shabu-shabu and grill) or savor traditional dishes like curries and stir-fries at Celadon, all with a view.
- Japanese and Chinese Cuisine: The Circle also features a variety of Asian options, including the acclaimed Okinawa-based steakhouse Yappari Steak and Ten Izakaya, which serves Japanese favorites. For Chinese food, Hawker Chan offers globally recognized dishes, and Quik Snack provides familiar Chinese comfort food.
Beyond these full-service restaurants, The Circle also has a selection of cafes and dessert spots, such as Bo’s Coffee, Alishan, Tipsy Hut, and 10 Dove Street, where you can enjoy hot beverages, pastries, and ice cream. This wide range of options ensures that a trip to The Circle at TOPS is not just about the view but also a complete and satisfying culinary journey.
Operating Hours, Fees, and How to Get There
One of the greatest advantages of Tops is that it is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This flexibility allows visitors to choose their perfect viewing time, whether it’s a sunrise spectacle, a midday visit, or the popular evening show of city lights.
A trip to Tops is straightforward, but it requires a bit of planning, especially when it comes to transportation.
Entrance Fee: The current entrance fee for Tops is approximately PHP 100 per person. Seniors and PWDs are discounted at PHP70. This fee is subject to change, so it’s best to have some extra cash on hand. The fee is used for the maintenance and development of the site.
The roads are generally well-paved, and a navigation app can easily guide you to the destination. Parking is available at the top for a small fee.
Shuttle Service Details
There is no direct public transportation (like a jeepney) that goes all the way to Tops. You can take a public jeepney to JY Square Mall in Lahug and then transfer to a “habal-habal” for the final leg of the journey. The most convenient option, though, is the shuttle service. The Circle at TOPS offers a shuttle service that picks up visitors from the IT Park Transport Terminal on Geonzon Street in IT Park, Lahug, Cebu City.
The shuttle service, referred to as the TOPS Bus, provides a convenient way for visitors to get to the mountain peak without the hassle of hiring a private car or motorcycle taxi.
- Pickup Location: The designated pickup point is the IT Park Transport Terminal, specifically on Geonzon Street, in IT Park, Lahug. This location is easily accessible from most parts of Cebu City.
- Operating Hours: The shuttle runs daily, with trips from IT Park to TOPS starting as early as 7:00 AM. The return trips from TOPS to IT Park continue until 3:00 AM. This schedule accommodates both day trips and late-night visits to catch the city lights.
- Fare: The fare for the shuttle service is ₱200 for a round-trip ticket, which also includes the entrance fee to TOPS. This makes it a cost-effective option for travelers.
In conclusion, a visit to Cebu’s Tops is an essential part of any Cebu trip. It offers more than just a stunning view; it provides a serene escape, a moment of reflection, and a new perspective on the vibrant Queen City of the South. The combination of its strategic location, a cool, mountain climate, and the sheer beauty of the panoramic vista makes it an unforgettable destination that will leave a lasting impression on every traveler.
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