Baguio City: The Ultimate Summer Destination You Must See

Baguio City, popularly called the “City of Pines,” is a picturesque tourist destination in the Philippine mountains. The Baguio City is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to escape the heat of the lowlands during the summer months. The city has numerous attractions, including scenic parks, museums, and cultural landmarks that glimpse the region’s rich history and culture.

Burnham Park is one of the most well-liked sights in Baguio City. This 32.84-hectare urban park features a beautiful artificial lake and a wide range of recreational activities such as boating, biking, and picnicking. Another must-visit destination is the Tam-Awan Village, a cultural village that showcases traditional Ifugao houses. The city also boasts several historical sites, such as the Baguio Cathedral, which dates back to the early 20th century and is an impressive example of Neo-Gothic architecture.

Finally, a trip to Baguio City would only be complete with sampling the city’s culinary delights. It is famous for its fresh produce, particularly strawberries. In addition, visitors can sample local delicacies such as the favorite “Baguio beans,” a staple in many local dishes. With its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, Baguio City is the perfect summer destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and charm of the Philippines.

Must-Do Activities for Every Traveler in Baguio

I. Burnham Park

Rent a boat and paddle around the beautiful artificial lake
Hire a bike and ride the lovely trails in the park.
Enjoy a picnic on the park’s lush grassy areas
Try local street food from the vendors located around the park
Address: Jose Abad Santos Dr, Baguio, Benguet, Philippines

II. Mines View Park

Take in stunning views of Baguio City and the surrounding mountains
Try on traditional Igorot clothing and have your photo taken with the resident horses
Shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts at the stalls around the park
Address: Mines View Observation Deck, Outlook Dr, Baguio, Benguet, Philippines

III. Tam-Awan Village

Explore the traditional Ifugao houses and learn about the indigenous culture and heritage of the region
Attend a local art exhibit, workshop, or performance at the cultural village
Purchase unique souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans at the Tam-Awan Village Arts and Crafts Center
Address: Long Long Benguet Rd, Baguio, Benguet, Philippines

IV. Baguio Cathedral

Marvel at the impressive Neo-Gothic architecture of the cathedral
Attend a religious service and experience the local religious culture and traditions
Take a moment of reflection and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the cathedral grounds
Address: Cathedral Loop, Baguio, Benguet, Philippines

V. Philippine Military Academy Museum

Philippine Military Academy Museum, Baguio City

Discover the military’s history and traditions in the Philippines and those of its cadets.
View exhibits showcasing the academy’s weapons, uniforms, and historical artifacts
On a guided tour, learn about the academy’s demanding training schedule and cadet lifestyle.
Address: Fort Del Pilar Rd, Baguio, Benguet, Philippines

VI. Baguio’s Best Delicacies

Strawberry Taho: a popular Filipino snack made from soft tofu, brown sugar syrup, and sago pearls, but with fresh strawberry puree added for extra flavor
Strawberry Shortcake: a dessert made with layers of fluffy sponge cake, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries
Peanut Brittle: a crunchy snack made from roasted peanuts and caramelized sugar, usually found in souvenir shops
Kiniing: a smoked meat delicacy made from pork or beef that is marinated in salt and smoked over wood for several hours

VII. BenCab Museum

Admire the works of Filipino artist Benedicto Cabrera, also known as BenCab
Take a stroll around the museum’s lush garden and enjoy the scenic views
Attend a workshop or lecture at the museum’s Bulol Gallery
Address: Km. 6 Asin Road, Tadiangan, Tuba, Benguet, Philippines

These are just some of the must-see destinations in Baguio City and the activities they offer. With its rich culture, scenic views, and exciting adventures, Baguio City is a destination that has something for everyone to enjoy.

Top Destinations in Baguio You Should Visit

I. Natural Attractions

Burnham Park: a large urban park with an artificial lake, gardens, and walking paths (located at Jose Abad Santos Dr, Baguio, Benguet). One of the most sought-after activities in the park is boating on the artificial lake, which provides a tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views.

Mines View Park: Mines View Park is renowned for its panoramic views of the city and its surrounding mountains. Tourists can appreciate the stunning views from different perspectives and take pictures with the resident horses while dressing up in traditional Igorot clothing.

Wright Park: is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts. The park features a long reflecting pool that stretches along its center, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding pine trees and mountain ranges.
Camp John Hay: a former U.S. military base turned into a popular leisure and tourism complex with various activities and dining options (located at Loakan Rd, Baguio, Benguet). Today, Camp John Hay offers diverse activities for visitors, like golf courses, hiking trails, and zip lines.

II. Cultural and Artistic Venues

Tam-Awan Village: is a cultural destination located at 366-C Pinsao Proper, Baguio, Benguet. It recreates a native settlement and showcases the customary Cordilleran way of life, culture, and art. In addition, you can see their houses, artifacts, and art and interact with the local community.

BenCab Museum: a private museum showcasing the works of Philippine National Artist Benedicto Cabrera and other artists (located at Km. 6 Asin Road, Tadiangan, Tuba, Benguet).

Top Accommodations in The City of Pines

The Manor at Camp John Hay

It is a U.S. military base transformed into a leisure and tourism complex, providing guests with a unique and peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery and pine trees.

Amenities: Spa, gym, restaurant, indoor pool, garden, business center
Services: Room service, airport shuttle, concierge, laundry
Price range: $100-200/night
Address: Loakan Road, Camp John Hay, Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines

Le Monet Hotel

It is a boutique hotel near Wright Park that offers elegant rooms, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.

Amenities: Restaurant, garden, fitness center, indoor pool, spa
Services: Room service, airport shuttle, laundry, concierge
Price range: $70-150/night
Address: Ordonio Drive, Camp John Hay, Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines.

Forest Lodge

The Forest Lodge is a mid-range hotel. The lush pine trees surround the hotel, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Amenities: Garden, restaurant, lounge, game room, gift shop
Services: Room service, laundry, shuttle service, concierge
Price range: $50-100/night
Address: Camp John Hay, Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines

Azalea Residences

Azalea Residences is a modern hotel near the city center that offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, a restaurant, a fitness center, and a spa.

Amenities: Restaurant, garden, gym, game room, picnic area
Services: Room service, laundry, shuttle service, concierge
Price range: $70-150/night
Address: Leonard Wood Loop, Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines.

Hotel Elizabeth

Guests can easily explore the city, as Hotel Elizabeth is conveniently near Burnham Park and Baguio Cathedral.

Amenities: Restaurant, garden, gym, lounge, business center
Services: Room service, airport shuttle, laundry, concierge
Price range: $60-120/night
Address: J. Felipe Street corner Gibraltar Road, Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines.

Best Time to Experience the Beauty of Baguio

For travelers, it is essential to know the best time to visit Baguio City to ensure an enjoyable experience.

I. Weather Patterns in Baguio

The weather patterns in Baguio City have two seasons:

dry season
wet season.

The dry season

It starts in November and ends in May
During this season, the weather is generally cooler and drier
Temperatures range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius
The skies are usually clear, and there is very little chance of rain.

The wet season

It starts in June and ends in October
During this season, the weather is generally warmer and wetter
temperatures range from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius
Rain is frequent, and visitors can expect daily afternoon showers.

II. Best Time to Visit Baguio City

The best time to visit Baguio City depends on personal preference. However, the following are the best times to visit Baguio City.

A. December to February

December to February are the coolest and driest months in Baguio City.
During this season, temperatures can drop to as low as 7 degrees Celsius, making it the perfect time to enjoy a hot cup of coffee or cocoa while enjoying the chilly weather.
This season is also perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and sightseeing.

B. March to May

March to May is also a great time to visit Baguio City.
The weather is warmer during this season, but it is still relatively calm compared to other parts of the Philippines.
This season is perfect for those who want to experience the colorful blooms of the various flowers in Baguio City, such as the famous Panagbenga Festival.

C. June to October

June to October is considered the wettest month in Baguio City.
This season is perfect for those who want to experience the lush greenery of Baguio City.
It is also ideal for indoor activities such as visiting museums and galleries.

How to Reach Baguio with Ease

Here’s a guide on how to get to Baguio from Manila, transportation options, and other factors to consider when traveling to Baguio City.

Transportation Options

Two primary transportation options for getting to Baguio City from Manila are private cars and public transportation.

A. Private Car Driving

A private car to Baguio City is a convenient option for those who prefer to have control over their travel time and route. It is also ideal for those traveling in groups or with large luggage.

B. Public Transportation

Several options are available for those who prefer public transportation: bus, van, and taxi.

A bus is the most common mode of transportation to Baguio City from Manila. Several bus companies operate daily trips from Manila to Baguio City, with various departure points in the metro.
Taking a van is a faster and more convenient option for those who want to avoid dealing with the hassle of public transportation.
Opting for a taxi to travel from Manila to Baguio City is the most costly means of transportation.

If you are coming from Visayas or Mindanao, there are several ways to reach Baguio City.

By Air

Air travel is the quickest and most practical method of getting to Baguio City from the Visayas or Mindanao. Several airlines operate flights from major cities in Visayas and Mindanao to Manila, the gateway to Baguio City. These airlines include:

Philippine Airlines (PAL)
Cebu Pacific
AirAsia
Philippine AirAsia Zest
SkyJet Airlines

Once in Manila, you can take a bus, van, or taxi to Baguio City.

Land and Sea

You can travel by land and sea if you prefer a more budget-friendly option. Here are the steps:

Take a bus or van from your location in Visayas or Mindanao to Manila. Several bus companies offer direct trips to Manila, such as:

Ceres Bus,
DLTB
Philtranco

2. Take a bus or van to Baguio City.

3. To experience a more scenic route, you can also take a ferry from Cebu or Bohol to Manila.

4. Take a taxi or bus from the pier to Baguio City.

Car

If you prefer to drive your car, you can take the following route:

Take the ferry from Cebu or Bohol to Dumaguete.
Drive from Dumaguete to Dapitan, then take the ferry to Dipolog.
Drive to Cagayan de Oro from Dipolog, then take the ferry to Manila.
From Manila, follow the directions mentioned in the previous answer to reach Baguio City.

Regardless of which transportation option you choose, plan your trip ahead of time and prioritize safety. Take note of the weather conditions and know the local customs and traditions. Then, enjoy your trip to Baguio City!

Discover Nearby Places around the City of Pines

Here are the towns adjacent to Baguio City and their top tourist spots:

La Trinidad –

located only a few kilometers from Baguio City, La Trinidad is known for its beautiful strawberry fields and vegetable gardens. Here are some of its top tourist spots:

Strawberry Farm
Bell Church
Benguet State University Eco Trail
Mount Yangbew

Itogon –

a mountain town in Benguet province, Itogon has several natural attractions and historical sites. Here are some of its top tourist spots:

Mount Ulap Eco-Trail
Binga Dam
Balatoc Mines
Sto. Tomas Forest Reserve

Sablan –

a town in the west of Baguio City. It offers visitors a tranquil escape with its natural attractions and cultural sites. Here are some of its top tourist spots:

Kapangan Rice Terraces
Kiltepan Viewpoint
Sablan Hanging Bridge
Sto. Tomas Ridge

Tublay –

a town located north of Baguio City, Tublay is known for its stunning waterfalls and rice terraces. Here are some of its top tourist spots:

Aran Cave
Lourdes Grotto
Tublay Rice Terraces
Lungsod-Daan Falls

Visiting these towns adjacent to Baguio City can offer you a different perspective of the Cordillera region and an opportunity to explore more of its natural and cultural attractions.