Baguio City
The Summer Capital of the Philippines - cool mountain climate, pine forests, vibrant arts scene, and colonial heritage
Baguio City, nestled in the Cordillera mountains at 1,540 meters above sea level, offers a refreshing escape from tropical heat with temperatures averaging 15-23°C year-round. Known as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines," this mountain city captivates visitors with its pine-scented air, vibrant arts scene, colonial heritage, and rich indigenous Cordillera culture. From the iconic Burnham Park and bustling Session Road to world-class museums and fresh strawberry farms, Baguio combines natural beauty with cultural depth, making it one of the Philippines' most beloved destinations.
Highlights
Escape Manila's heat with temperatures averaging 15-23°C year-round. Best visited December to May for dry, crisp weather.
BenCab Museum, Tam-awan Village, and vibrant Session Road showcase Cordillera indigenous culture and contemporary Filipino art.
Pick-your-own strawberries at La Trinidad farms (December-May peak season) and enjoy strawberry taho, jam, and shortcake.
Main Attractions
The heart of Baguio - landscaped gardens, man-made lake for boating and cycling, picnic areas, and the iconic Melvin Jones Grandstand.
Tips:
Visit early morning for fewer crowds. Bike rentals available around ₱50-100/hour. Swan boats ₱150-200 for 30 minutes.
Baguio's main commercial street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Try local specialties like strawberry taho, Good Shepherd ube jam, and Vizco's strawberry shortcake.
Tips:
Pedestrian-only on weekends. Best visited evening for cooler weather and vibrant atmosphere.
Panoramic views of the Cordillera mountain ranges and former mining areas. Local vendors sell handicrafts, woven goods, and traditional Igorot attire for photo ops.
Tips:
Can get crowded midday. Bargain for handicrafts - start at 50% of asking price. Bring jacket for cool winds.
National Artist Benedicto Cabrera's personal museum featuring his masterpieces, indigenous artifacts, organic farm, and Cafe Sabel. 15 minutes from city center.
Tips:
Open Tue-Sun 9AM-6PM (last entry 5:30PM). Admission ₱200 general, ₱150 senior/PWD, ₱120 students. Photography allowed (no flash). Cafe Sabel serves excellent organic meals.
Pick-your-own strawberries at multiple farms. Peak season December-May. Purchase fresh strawberries, jam, and strawberry taho.
Tips:
Entrance ₱20-50 per person. Picked strawberries ₱400-500/kg. Go early (7-9AM) for best picking. Wear closed shoes.
Tam-awan Village
Reconstructed traditional Ifugao huts showcasing Cordillera indigenous architecture, art galleries, and cultural workshops. Entrance ₱60.
The Mansion
Official summer residence of the Philippine President. American colonial architecture with manicured gardens. Book museum tour online for weekends.
Wright Park
Pine tree-lined park famous for horseback riding. Horse rentals ₱150-300 for 30 min ride. Best visited early morning for mist through pine trees.
Camp John Hay
Former US military base turned eco-tourism destination. Forest trails, golf course, Bell House museum, and The Manor hotel. Free entrance to grounds.
Best Time
December to May - dry season with crisp, cool weather. Peak tourist season is December-February (Christmas break) and March-April (summer break).
Avoid
July to September - heavy rains and possible landslides on mountain roads. October-November can be foggy.
Note: Baguio is crowded during Panagbenga (Flower Festival) in February - book accommodations months in advance. Weekends are always busier than weekdays.
Baguio is 250km north of Manila, accessible by bus (6-7 hours) or private vehicle. No airport in Baguio - nearest is Clark International Airport (3 hours away).
Bus from Manila
Victory Liner, Genesis, and Joy Bus operate daily trips from Manila terminals (Pasay, Cubao, Caloocan). Deluxe buses ₱700-900, regular ₱450-600. Book online or at terminals.
Tips: Night buses (10PM-11PM) arrive early morning. Bring jacket - buses have strong AC. NLEX and SCTEX toll roads speed up travel.
Private Car
Via NLEX-SCTEX-Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union route. Toll fees ₱500-700. Parking in Baguio can be challenging on weekends.
Tips: Leave Manila very early (3-4AM) to avoid traffic. Kennon Road is scenic but narrow and winding. Marcos Highway is safer alternative.
From Clark Airport
Hire van service ₱3,000-4,000 for 4-6 pax. Some hotels offer airport transfers. Public bus available but requires transfers.
Tips: Pre-book van transfers for convenience. Travel time 3-4 hours depending on traffic.
Session Road - City Center (Budget)
Baguio Homestay
₱800-1,500/night
Basic rooms, central location, walking distance to all major attractions.
Burnham Suites Hotel
₱1,200-2,000/night
Clean rooms overlooking Burnham Park, heater included, rooftop views.
Session Road - City Center (Mid-range)
Hotel Supreme Convention Plaza
₱2,500-4,000/night
Central location, restaurant, function rooms, walking distance to Session Road.
Microtel by Wyndham Baguio
₱3,000-4,500/night
Modern rooms, reliable hot water, good breakfast, near Burnham Park.
Upper Session / Mines View (Mid-range)
Azalea Residences Baguio
₱3,500-5,500/night
Condo-style units with kitchenette, mountain views, quiet location.
Baguio Country Club
₱4,000-6,000/night
Golf course access, colonial charm, restaurant, mountain views.
Camp John Hay (Upscale)
The Manor at Camp John Hay
₱8,000-15,000/night
Luxury resort with pine forest setting, fine dining, spa, golf course access.
Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay
₱6,000-10,000/night
Boutique hotel in pine forest, cozy rooms with fireplace, restaurant.
Budget
₱1,500-2,500
per day
Budget accommodation, street food, jeepney transport, free attractions
Mid-range
₱3,000-5,000
per day
Mid-range hotel, restaurant meals, taxi transport, paid attractions
Upscale
₱6,000+
per day
Upscale resort, fine dining, private transport, spa experiences
Sample costs: Strawberry picking ₱400-500/kg • Museum entries ₱50-200 • Horse riding ₱150-300 • Restaurant meals ₱200-500 per person
- •Bring warm clothing - temperatures can drop to 10-15°C especially at night and early morning. Jacket, sweater, and long pants essential.
- •Book accommodations well in advance for peak season (December-February) and Panagbenga Festival (February). Prices double during peak periods.
- •Traffic is heavy on weekends and holidays. Consider visiting on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
- •Try local specialties: strawberry taho, Good Shepherd ube jam, Vizco's strawberry shortcake, Baguio longganisa, and pinikpikan (traditional Cordillera dish).
- •Respect indigenous culture at Tam-awan Village and when purchasing handicrafts. Support local artisans by buying authentic products.
- •Altitude sickness is rare but possible. Stay hydrated and take it easy on first day if coming from sea level.
- •Parking is challenging in city center. Use public transport or walk when possible. Hotels with parking charge ₱50-200/day.
- •Baguio Public Market is great for fresh produce, handicrafts, and local products. Bargaining expected. Watch belongings in crowded areas.