Things To Do
in Baguio City
Baguio City, located in the Northern Philippines, is known for its cool climate and picturesque mountain views. It is famous for its colorful Panagbenga Festival, celebrating the blooming of flowers in the region. The city is also home to popular attractions such as Burnham Park, Mines View Park, and Session Road, a bustling street full of shops and restaurants.
Baguio City is a popular destination for both local and international travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in the mountains.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Burnham Park, where you can rent a boat or stroll around the scenic gardens. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and vibrant flowers.
Visit the Botanical Garden to see an impressive array of native and exotic plants. Take photos with the colorful Igorot sculptures.
Head to Session Road for dinner at one of the many local restaurants. Experience Baguio's nightlife with a leisurely walk around the bustling streets.
Hike to Mount Yangbew for spectacular views of Baguio and the surrounding mountains. Pack water and snacks for the journey.
Explore the nearby La Trinidad Strawberry Farm to pick fresh strawberries. Enjoy sweets and treats made from the famous berries.
Relax at your accommodation and unwind after a day of adventure. Try out some local delicacies for dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cool climate year-round, making it a popular escape from the hot lowland areas.
- Rich cultural heritage with various festivals, such as the Panagbenga Festival.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including parks, gardens, and mountainous landscapes.
- Major tourist destination, providing numerous accommodations and dining options.
- Vibrant art scene with local artists and crafts being showcased.
- Heavy traffic congestion, especially during tourist peak seasons.
- Overcrowding in popular areas can diminish the tranquil atmosphere.
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors compared to larger cities.
- Natural disasters risk, including potential landslides and earthquakes.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in the Philippines due to tourism.
Best Activities in Baguio City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic beauty of Baguio City through its various hiking and nature trails, such as the Mount Yangbew and Mount Kalugong trails.
Visit strawberry farms around Baguio City and have the fun experience of picking fresh strawberries.
Enjoy thrilling zipline rides and tree top adventures at various parks and adventure facilities in Baguio City.
Tours
Uncover the best of Baguio City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Baguio City
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of the mining town of Itogon.
Features an elegant presidential residence set amidst lush gardens.
Known for its wide walking area and horseback riding activities.
Offers a picturesque lake, gardens, and various recreational facilities.
Showcases a diverse collection of plant species and traditional Ifugao huts.
Provides a cultural village with traditional huts and scenic terraces.
Food in Baguio City
Baguio City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved street snack made of soft tofu, sweet arnibal syrup, and sago pearls infused with the distinctive flavor of fresh strawberries. Find it from local street vendors in and around Burnham Park.
Must-Try!
A traditional Cordilleran dish made with chicken that is slightly beaten before cooking, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat. It is often seasoned with ginger and served with rice. Experience authentic Pinikpikan at farmer's markets like the Baguio City Public Market.
A sweet purple yam jam, often enjoyed as a spread or filling in various pastries and desserts. Sample and purchase this delectable treat from the Good Shepherd Convent, known for its high-quality ube products.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Baguio City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open from late afternoon until midnight, this bustling market offers an array of street food such as grilled meats, fresh fruits, and local delicacies. Be sure to try the grilled skewers and the baguette filled with Vigan longganisa.
Visitors can explore a wide selection of freshly harvested produce, handcrafted goods, and an assortment of local street food along Session Road. Indulge in classic Filipino street food like balut, kwek-kwek, and fish balls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Baguio City, it is important to show respect for elders by using 'po' and 'opo' when speaking to them, and by giving them the highest seat at the table.
Baguio City is known for its scenic beauty and environmental conservation efforts. Visitors should be mindful of their waste and support initiatives to preserve the city's natural heritage.
Visitors should take the time to learn about and appreciate local customs and traditions, such as participating in traditional festivals and respecting local spiritual practices.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Baguio City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Baguio City
Ensure a smooth experience
In Baguio City, tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated, especially in restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides. A standard tip of 10-15% is appropriate for good service.
Cash is widely used in Baguio City, especially for small transactions and in markets. However, major establishments and hotels also accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry cash for day-to-day expenses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Baguio City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Baguio City, Philippines is during the dry season from November to April. This is when the weather is cool and comfortable, with clear skies and minimal rainfall. Visitors can expect to enjoy outdoor activities, such as sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the city's attractions without the inconvenience of heavy rains.
Baguio City experiences heavy rainfall during the rainy season from May to October. While the lush greenery and cooler temperatures can still make for a picturesque visit, visitors should be prepared for frequent rain showers and potential travel disruptions due to inclement weather. Indoor activities and cultural events may be more suitable during this time.
Baguio City at Night
Hiking in Baguio City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A well-known trail in Camp John Hay that offers scenic views of pine forests and natural landscapes, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Located near Baguio City, this mountain provides a moderate hike with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Famous for its rock formations and panoramic views, this hike is ideal for those looking for a more adventurous trek.
A peaceful trail that winds through the Botanical Garden, showcasing various plant species and offers a leisurely hiking experience.
A cultural and artistic village trail that intertwines hiking with local art at the Tam-awan Village, featuring traditional huts and artworks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Baguio City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Baguio City by plane.
Located in Clark Freeport Zone, approximately 80 kilometers from Baguio City, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is one of the major gateways to the Philippines.
Situated in Manila, about 250 kilometers from Baguio City, this is the main international gateway to the Philippines, servicing numerous airlines and a wide range of destinations worldwide.
Located in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, around 300 kilometers from Baguio City, this airport offers limited domestic flights and some international connections.
Located in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, about 120 kilometers from Baguio City, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous groups of the Cordillera region, including the Igorot peoples, are the original inhabitants of Baguio City, contributing significantly to its culture and traditions.
A significant migrant group in Baguio City, Ilocanos come from the Ilocos Region, known for their agricultural skills and active participation in local economy.
This group is part of the Cordillera region and has influence in the cultural practices and governance within Baguio City.
Migrants from Pampanga, contributing to the diverse community in Baguio with their distinct language and cuisine.
Residents from the Tagalog-speaking regions who move to Baguio City for education and employment opportunities.
A group from the Visayas region that has settled in Baguio City, engaging in various industries and businesses.
The growing population of elderly residents in Baguio City, who influence local health and social services.
Young individuals, primarily students from various universities in Baguio City, making an impact on the city's vibrant culture and economy.
The Soul of Baguio City
Discover the essence of Baguio City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Baguio City, played in various barangays and schools, with numerous local leagues and tournaments.
Baguio City is surrounded by mountains and is a favored location for mountain climbing and trekking, attracting both locals and tourists.
Football has gained popularity in Baguio City, with the City hosting various football leagues and tournaments throughout the year.
Track and field events are commonly practiced in Baguio, with the city often hosting athletics competitions at the Baguio Athletic Bowl.
Ultimate Frisbee is a growing sport in Baguio City, with a community of enthusiasts organizing games and tournaments.
Billiards is a popular recreational sport in Baguio City, with many locals enjoying the game in bars and dedicated billiards halls.
With its cool climate and scenic routes, cycling has become a popular activity among residents and visitors in Baguio City.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Baguio City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Baguio City presents numerous dining options catering to vegetarians and vegans. Look for restaurants like Vanilla Café and Oh My Gulay, offering diverse plant-based dishes ranging from hearty mains to delectable desserts.
Travelers seeking gluten-free fare can head to Hill Station and Lemon and Olives, both of which provide gluten-free selections on their menu, including soups, salads, and mains that are specially prepared to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Baguio City with these cultural adventures.
