What is the entrance fee for TOPS Lookout Cebu?

The entrance fee for TOPS Lookout (The Circle at TOPS) is ₱100 for regular admission, ₱70 for seniors and PWDs. Rooftop access costs an additional ₱50.

What is the best time to visit TOPS Lookout?

The best time to visit TOPS is late afternoon (4-6 PM) when you can see the city in daylight, watch the sunset, and stay as the city lights up. Sunrise and nighttime visits are also excellent options.

Is TOPS Lookout open 24 hours?

Yes, TOPS Lookout (The Circle at TOPS) is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing visitors to choose sunrise, sunset, or nighttime views.

How do I get to TOPS Lookout from Cebu City?

From JY Square in Lahug, take a habal-habal (₱150-200) or taxi/Grab (₱250-350) up the Busay road. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes.

TOPS Lookout Cebu: Best Time to Visit for Stunning Views

TOPS Lookout, now officially known as The Circle at TOPS, is one of Cebu's most iconic viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramic views of Cebu City, Mactan Island, and the surrounding seas. Located in the Busay highlands, this newly renovated attraction has become even better with five storeys of dining and lifestyle options since its soft reopening in February 2024.

TOPS Lookout Entrance Fee 2025

Category	Fee
Regular Admission	₱100
Seniors / PWD	₱70
Rooftop Access (additional)	₱50

Note: Prices may change. The rooftop offers the highest vantage point for unobstructed 360-degree views.

Opening Hours

One of TOPS' greatest advantages is that it operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This flexibility allows visitors to choose their perfect viewing time, whether for sunrise, sunset, or the magical city lights at night.

Best Time to Visit TOPS Lookout

Choosing when to visit TOPS significantly impacts your experience. Here's a breakdown of each time slot:

Late Afternoon (4 PM – 6 PM) — Recommended

This is arguably the best time to visit TOPS. You get the full experience:

See the city in golden afternoon light
Watch the spectacular sunset over the Cebu Strait
Stay as the city transforms and lights up below
Cooler temperatures than midday

Sunrise (5 AM – 6:30 AM)

For early risers seeking a peaceful experience:

Cool morning air and soft golden light
Watch the sun rise over Mactan and the sea
Minimal crowds — often just you and photographers
Perfect for meditation and quiet reflection

Nighttime (7 PM onwards)

For the dramatic twinkling city lights experience:

See Metro Cebu illuminated below
Romantic atmosphere, popular for dates
Cooler weather, more comfortable
Combine with dinner at one of the restaurants

Midday (10 AM – 3 PM)

Least recommended due to heat and harsh lighting, but acceptable on overcast days. Views are still good, just less dramatic for photography.

Weather and Visibility Tips

Dry Season (December – May): Best visibility, clearer skies
Rainy Season (June – November): Can be foggy, but dramatic cloud formations possible
Check weather apps: Avoid visiting during heavy fog or rain
After rain: Often the clearest views as rain washes away haze

What to See at The Circle at TOPS

Panoramic Viewing Deck: 360-degree views of Cebu City, Mactan, Cordova, and Bohol on clear days
Rooftop Level: Highest vantage point (additional ₱50)
Dining Options: Multiple restaurants and cafes across 5 floors
Instagram Spots: Various photo opportunities throughout
Souvenir Shops: Cebu memorabilia and local products

How to Get to TOPS Lookout

From Cebu City (JY Square / Lahug)

By Habal-habal: ₱150–200 one way from JY Square, 20-30 minutes
By Car/Grab: ~₱250-350 from Cebu City proper, navigate to Busay
By Motorcycle: Follow the Busay road, well-signed route

Directions

From JY Square in Lahug, head uphill through Nivel Hills and continue on the winding Busay road. TOPS is well-signposted. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Nearby Attractions to Combine

Maximize your Busay trip by visiting nearby attractions:

Temple of Leah: 10 minutes away, Roman-inspired temple (₱100 entrance)
Sirao Flower Garden: 15 minutes away, colorful flower fields
La Vie Parisienne: French-themed cafe with views
Mountain View Nature's Park: Swimming and dining complex

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Bring a jacket: It's noticeably cooler in the highlands, especially at night
Bring cash: Some vendors may not accept cards
Charge your phone: You'll want plenty of photos
Arrive before sunset: To secure good viewing spots
Weekday mornings: Quietest time if you prefer fewer crowds
Book return transport: Arrange your habal-habal to wait or return