Baguio: Best Things to Do & Top Attractions
This mountainous city is known for its cool climate, luxuriant pine trees, and charming flower festivals. It serves as a popular tourist destination, offering parks, markets, and cultural sites that reflect the local heritage and natural beauty.
- Population
- 0.36 millions
- Size
- 57 square km
- Airport
- Loakan – domestic
- Est. Visit Days
- 2 days
Overview
Baguio, known as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines," is located in the northern part of Luzon. It has a cool climate and is famous for its pine trees, parks, and energetic flower festivals. Pros include its pleasant weather, rich culture, and accessibility to nearby attractions. However, cons are traffic congestion, overcrowding during peak seasons, and limited public transportation options. Overall, Baguio offers a unique experience but can be challenging during busy times.
Traffic & Transport
Traffic can be quite congested, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. The best means of transport to explore the area includes walking, as many attractions are within a short distance from each other, or using local jeepneys for an authentic experience. Taxis are also readily available and can provide convenient point-to-point travel. Visitors may consider renting bicycles or scooters for a more flexible exploration of the scenic surroundings. Reliable taxi companies include both traditional taxi services and ride-hailing apps that operate in the area, making it easier for tourists to book rides. Popular options include Grab, which is widely used for booking taxis conveniently through a mobile app.
History
The area was originally inhabited by indigenous groups, primarily the Ibalois and Kalanguya. In the late 19th century, it became a military outpost for Spanish colonizers. After the Philippine-American War, American forces established it as a hill station for rest and recreation. The city developed into a center for commerce and education in the early 20th century. Today, it hosts various cultural festivals reflecting its diverse heritage and history.
Itinerary Sample
Explore Baguio's cool climate and scenic spots with this 2-day itinerary.
– First day: Visit Burnham Park, explore the Baguio Cathedral, shop at the Session Road, and enjoy the view at Mines View Park.
– Second day: Tour Camp John Hay, visit The Mansion, check out Wright Park, and experience the Botanical Garden.
Near Excursion
This city is well-positioned for several interesting day trips. Here are some options:
– La Trinidad Strawberry Farms at 8 km: Experience strawberry picking and enjoy fresh produce in a scenic setting.
– Mount Pulag National Park at 100 km: Offers beautiful views and the highest peak in Luzon for hiking enthusiasts.
– Banaue Rice Terraces at 150 km: A UNESCO World Heritage site with handsome ancient rice terraces carved into the mountains.
– Balatoc Mines Tour at 15 km: Explore a historic gold mine with guided tours showcasing mining techniques and history.
– Ambuklao Dam at 36 km: Visit this impressive dam, enjoy the reservoir's views, and try fishing or boating activities.
Attraction
Known for its cool climate and scenic mountain views, the city offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions.
– Burnham Park: A central park that's perfect for boating, picnicking, and enjoying outdoor activities.
– Mines View Park: Offers panoramic views of mountain ranges and is a popular spot for souvenir shopping.
– The Mansion: The official summer residence of the President, featuring colonial architecture and nice gardens.
– Wright Park: Known for its long pool of water lined with pine trees, it's ideal for horseback riding.
– Camp John Hay: A former military base turned into a resort complex with hiking trails and historical sites.
– Botanical Garden: Displays local flora and showcases native huts from various indigenous groups in the area.
Activity
Travelers in Baguio can enjoy nature, culture, and various outdoor activities in a cool mountain setting.
– Strawberry Picking: Experience picking fresh strawberries at local farms during the harvest season.
– Burnham Park Boating: Rent a paddle boat and enjoy the scenic views on Burnham Lake.
– Night Market Shopping: Explore the vibrant night market for street food and unique local products.
– Pine Tree Forest Trekking: Hike through pine tree forests for fresh air and beautiful landscapes.
– Camp John Hay Adventure Park: Engage in outdoor activities like zip-lining and horseback riding amidst pine trees.
Cuisine
The city offers a mix of local and international cuisines, often featuring fresh produce from nearby farms. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Strawberry Taho: Silken tofu dessert topped with sweet strawberry syrup and sago pearls.
– Pinikpikan: Traditional chicken soup prepared by lightly beating the chicken before cooking.
– Ube Jam: Sweet purple yam spread known for its creamy texture and animated color.
– Longganisa: Local sausage with a garlicky flavor, often served at breakfast.
– Bulalo Steak: Beef shank dish cooked with marrow-rich broth, transformed into a sizzling plate.
Shopping
One popular shopping experience is visiting local markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Souvenirs like wood carvings, woven products, and strawberry jams are common gifts. You can also find unique items such as traditional textiles and silver jewelry. The night market offers a variety of affordable clothing and accessories. For a memorable gift, consider buying locally made handicrafts. These items reflect the culture and artistry of the region.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the Panagbenga Festival, a flower festival celebrated every February featuring colorful parades and street dancing. Art enthusiasts can visit the Baguio Museum, which showcases local history and culture through various exhibits. The city also has several art galleries displaying works by local artists. Additionally, there are regular workshops and cultural events that promote traditional crafts and indigenous art forms.