Things to Do in Baguio

About Baguio

Baguio sits at 5,000 feet in the Cordillera mountains, where temperatures hover between 15-25°C all year. The Philippines calls it the Summer Capital. Pine forests blanket the slopes, and mist rolls through most afternoons. Victorian mansions stand next to indigenous Igorot structures—a collision of colonial history and mountain culture. Students and artists have moved here in droves. The city is their workshop now. Burnham Park gets loud and crowded. The Botanical Garden offers quiet. Strawberry fields spread across nearby valleys, night markets fill with smoke from street vendors, and sunrise over the ridgelines comes in gold and amber. Time moves differently here—slower, easier to catch your breath.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book bus tickets to Baguio in advance through Joy Bus, Victory Liner, or Genesis Transport. The 6-7 hour journey from Manila costs ₱500-800. Within the city, jeepneys charge ₱12-15 per ride, while tricycles cost ₱50-100 for short distances. Grab is available but limited.

Money: Bring sufficient cash as many local vendors, strawberry farms, and smaller restaurants don't accept cards. ATMs are available at SM Baguio, Ayala Technohub, and Session Road. Budget ₱1,500-2,500 daily for meals, transport, and attractions. Tipping 10% is appreciated at restaurants.

Cultural Respect: When visiting indigenous communities in nearby areas, ask permission before photographing people. Dress modestly when visiting churches like Baguio Cathedral. Learn basic Ilocano phrases like 'Naimbag nga aldaw' (good day). Respect the city's ban on plastic bags and styrofoam containers.

Food Safety: Try local specialties at Good Taste Restaurant (pinikbet), Hill Station (strawberry taho), and Café by the Ruins (organic dishes). Drink bottled water, especially when hiking. Street food at Session Road Night Market is generally safe, but choose busy stalls with high turnover.

When to Visit

Baguio's dry season (November-April) offers the most pleasant weather with temperatures of 18-25°C and minimal rainfall (10-50mm monthly). December-February brings the coolest conditions (15-20°C), perfect for hiking and outdoor activities, though accommodation prices increase 40-60% during Christmas and New Year. March-May sees warmer temperatures (20-25°C) with occasional afternoon showers, making it ideal for families and budget travelers as prices drop 20-30%. The wet season (June-October) brings heavy rainfall (200-400mm monthly), landslides risks, and temperatures of 16-23°C, but offers 30-50% lower accommodation rates and lush, green landscapes. Key festivals include the Panagbenga Flower Festival (February-March) with street dancing and floral displays, though expect peak crowds and 50% higher prices. The Strawberry Festival (March) in nearby La Trinidad offers farm visits and local products. Adventure seekers should visit November-December for clear mountain views and optimal hiking conditions. Digital nomads favor January-February for cooler working temperatures, while budget travelers find June-August offers the best deals despite occasional rain. Avoid Holy Week (March-April) when domestic tourism peaks and prices soar 70%.