Baguio, also known as the "City of Pines," is a beloved mountain retreat in the Philippines known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and rich culture. Located in the Cordillera Central mountain range, Baguio offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands. From beautiful parks to historical landmarks, the city is filled with places that draw visitors from all over. Here’s a guide to the best spots to explore, reasons to visit and where to stay in Baguio.
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Best Places in Baguio
Here are twelve must-visit spots in Baguio that capture the city’s unique charm:
Burnham Park
One of the oldest and most popular attractions, Burnham Park is a green oasis in the city center. It features a large man-made lake where visitors can enjoy boat rides, bike rentals, and picnic areas. There’s also a skating rink, a rose garden, and an orchidarium.
Mines View Park
Originally, this area provided a view of the mining operations that once took place in the region, but today, it’s known for its scenic beauty. Famous for its panoramic view of the Benguet mountains, Mines View Park is a great place to buy souvenirs, local handicrafts, and snap photos with the iconic Saint Bernard dogs.
Botanical Garden
Also known as Igorot Village, the Botanical Garden spans several hectares and offers a mix of scenic landscapes, beautiful flowers, walking trails, cultural exhibits and serene walking paths, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to relax or enjoy Baguio’s cool climate. has , and replicas of native huts. It’s an excellent spot for leisurely walks and photos.
Arashiyama Bamboo Garden
The Arashiyama Bamboo Garden transports you to Japan with its towering bamboo stalks, inspired by the famous bamboo grove in Kyoto. The pathway lined with bamboo is a stunning sight, making it ideal for photos or simply enjoy nature. This spot is particularly magical around sunrise, so try visiting early to catch that golden glow.
Camp John Hay
A former American military base, Camp John Hay is now a popular leisure spot featuring hotels, restaurants, hiking trails, and a golf course. It’s a great place for nature walks and outdoor activities.
Mirador Hill and Eco Park
Mirador Hill, home to the Mirador Jesuit Villa, is known for its stunning views of Baguio City with panoramic vistas of the mountains and cityscape, perfect spot for seeking reflection or a bit of adventure. Visit spots like the labyrinth with winding paths, peaceful gardens and the Japanese Peace Bell. Note that it gets chilly, especially in the late afternoon.
Bencab Museum
Founded by National Artist Benedicto Cabrera, this museum is a treasure trove of contemporary art, indigenous artifacts, and sculptures. Its terraces offer views of the surrounding mountains.
Tam-Awan Village
To get a deeper understanding of the Cordilleran culture, visit Tam-awan Village, an art and cultural village that showcases traditional Ifugao and Kalinga huts. Designed to recreate a typical Cordilleran village, Tam-awan Village is home to local artworks, indigenous crafts and cultural performances.
Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad
The cool highland climate makes it ideal to grow strawberries here. A short drive from town proper of Baguio, this farm offers visitors the chance to pick their own strawberries, especially popular during strawberry season from November to May.
Baguio Cathedral (Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral)
One of the most iconic landmarks in Baguio City and known for its Neo-Gothic style and twin spires, Baguio Cathedral is a must-see religious landmark with a scenic view of the city. It's a serene place to pause and appreciate the local culture.
Igorot Stone Kingdom
A relatively new cultural attraction in Baguio gaining popularity for its impressive stone structures and sculptures that celebrate the Igorot heritage and mythology. You can admire the stone-walled trails and terraces, appreciate the Igorot people's skill in stonework and learn stories from Igorot legends, adding an enriching cultural experience to your visit.
Baguio Night Market
Finish off your trip from Baguio with a shopping spree. Baguio is known for it's cheap second hand clothes or "ukay-ukay" in local Filipino term. You can also find new clothes, shoes, phone accessories, kids toys and local street foods. As you can see it attracts quite a crowd, so be careful with pickpockets.
Why Travel to Baguio
Baguio holds a unique place as a top tourist destination in the Philippines, offering both natural beauty and cultural attractions. Here’s why it should be on your travel list:
- Cool Climate: With its high altitude, Baguio enjoys a cool climate year-round, making it a refreshing escape from the hotter lowland areas, especially during summer.
- Rich Culture and History: Known for its indigenous heritage, Baguio offers visitors a chance to explore the customs of the Cordillera region, from traditional architecture to local art.
- Outdoor Adventures: Baguio’s parks, mountains, and scenic spots offer numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and strawberry picking.
- Art and Handicrafts: As a haven for artists, Baguio is home to numerous art galleries, museums, and markets selling traditional handicrafts, paintings, and locally made products.
- Festival Celebrations: Baguio is famous for its Panagbenga (Flower Festival), a month-long event with parades, floral floats, and street dancing that highlights the region’s vibrant floral industry.
Where to Stay in Baguio
Baguio has a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly lodges to upscale hotels, catering to different travel preferences. Here are some popular areas and accommodations:
- Session Road Area
Close to the city center, Session Road offers a variety of accommodations, including mid-range hotels, inns, and budget guesthouses. Staying here allows easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. Check out Venus Park View Hotel. - Camp John Hay
Known for its luxury resorts and tranquil surroundings, Camp John Hay offers high-end accommodations with beautiful pine forest views, ideal for travelers seeking a more peaceful stay. Check out 4BR Cabin. - Mines View Park Area
For those who want a more scenic experience, staying near Mines View Park provides access to beautiful mountain views and quieter accommodations, often with cozy cottages and family-run inns. Check out Amara Transient House. - Leonard Wood Road
This area has both mid-range and upscale hotels and is close to several major attractions like Wright Park and the Baguio Botanical Garden, making it a convenient and scenic location to stay. Check out Azalea Residences Baguio. - Budget Options Near Burnham Park
For budget travelers, there are several affordable guesthouses and inns near Burnham Park, allowing easy access to central Baguio and a variety of attractions. Most of theses places are not in big third-party travel sites such as Booking and Expedia, but mostly through word of mouth or Facebook Marketplace.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these destinations in Baguio offers something for everyone. With its captivating landscapes, rich history, and convenient accommodations, Baguio is a destination that truly showcases the best of the Philippine highlands.
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