Baguio City, nestled in the mountains of the northern Luzon region in the Philippines, is known as the Summer Capital of the country. With its cool climate, scenic pine forests, and panoramic mountain views, this city offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. From unique and diverse cultural experiences to charming parks and bustling local markets, there’s so much to explore here.
When you visit, you’ll find a mix of experiences to delight every traveler. Beyond its cool weather and countryside charm, Baguio City is also a vibrant metropolis with a thriving art scene and delicious local cuisine. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of adventure activities in Baguio City to add to your itinerary. This guide lists the top activities and tours in Baguio City that you shouldn’t miss.
Stroll through colorful gardens and farms, enjoy fresh local cuisine, or immerse yourself in art and history at museums and cultural sites. Bike along mountain paths, visit serene parks, or simply take in breathtaking viewpoints surrounded by lush greenery. There’s something for everyone here. Plan your Baguio City escapade and experience the best outdoor activities in Baguio City during your trip.
Ready to explore? Continue reading to discover the 12 must-try tours and activities in Baguio City that will make your visit truly unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
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Known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City is a mountain city in the northern Luzon region, just 5 to 6 hours away from Manila City, the country’s capital.
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Also called the City of Pines, Baguio is famous for its cool climate, pine-filled landscapes, vibrant culture, and bustling local markets.
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Baguio City offers stunning mountain views, scenic parks, cultural landmarks, adventure activities, and outdoor experiences for nature lovers. It is perfect for families, solo travelers, couples, and art and culture enthusiasts looking to enjoy both relaxation and exploration.
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Here are the top fun things to do in Baguio City:
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Marvel at contemporary and traditional artworks at Bencab Museum
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Explore Cordillera culture at Tam-awan Village
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Witness traditional weaving at the Easter Weaving Room
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Experience the bustling Baguio Night Market
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Go on a nature adventure at Camp John Hay
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Pick fresh strawberries at La Trinidad Strawberry farms
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Enjoy panoramic mountain views at Mines View Park
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For a hassle-free trip, consider booking Baguio City tour packages with Guide to the Philippines—a trusted local travel agency that can arrange your transportation, activities, and accommodations, providing expert support so you can relax and fully enjoy your getaway.
12. Buy Souvenirs at the Ifugao Woodcarver’s Village
When you plan your Baguio City itinerary, make sure to carve out time for the Ifugao Woodcarver’s Village, a creative community located along Asin Road. This 3-kilometer stretch is one of the largest hubs of Cordilleran craftsmanship, and you’ll feel its artistic spirit the moment you arrive.
As you walk through the village, you’ll meet veteran and budding woodcarvers who bring local stories to life through their work. It’s inspiring to see how each piece reflects skills passed down through generations, giving you a deeper connection to the culture of this mountain city.
Browse the many workshops and roadside stalls. You’ll find everything from tiny wooden keychains to impressive statues of Igorot tribesmen. There are also beautifully carved household pieces, religious icons, and unique furniture that showcase the region’s rich indigenous heritage.
Visiting this village lets you do more than just shop — you get to experience a living tradition. Bringing home a handcrafted piece not only adds something meaningful to your travels, but it also supports the local artisans who keep Cordilleran culture thriving.
11. Witness Traditional Cordilleran Weaving at the Easter Weaving Room
A cultural tour in Baguio City wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Easter Weaving Room, a historic studio in Baguio City established in 1909. As one of the city’s oldest weaving centers, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Cordilleran craftsmanship that has been preserved for over a century.
When you visit, you can watch skilled weavers at work, creating the intricate Montanosa cloth on traditional looms. This vibrant, hand-woven textile is unique to the region, and seeing it made right before your eyes gives you a real appreciation for the artistry and patience involved.
The Easter Weaving Room also features impressive displays of hand-woven crafts. From decorative wall hangings and ethnic textiles to tablecloths, clothing accessories, and religious garments, each piece tells a story of Cordilleran culture. You’ll also find high-quality baskets and wood carvings that make for meaningful souvenirs.
Shopping here is a delight because you can bring home authentic, locally made items at great value. Compared to other souvenir stores in Baguio City, the products at the Easter Weaving Room often offer superior quality at reasonable prices, letting you take home a true piece of Cordilleran heritage.
10. Drop by The Mansion
Photo by Department of Tourism - Philippines
When planning your Baguio City adventure, make sure to stop by The Mansion, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1908 as the summer residence of the U.S. Governors-General, it now serves as the official summer palace of the President of the Philippines.
The Mansion’s main building features elegant Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, making it a stunning backdrop for your photos. Pose in front of the ornate iron gate or stroll along the beautifully manicured lawn. It’s easy to see why this majestic palace is one of the most photographed spots in Baguio City.
While visitors can only enter The Mansion House Museum, where presidential memorabilia is displayed, the main gate and grounds are open for exploration. You’ll enjoy learning about the history while taking in the charming gardens and impressive architecture.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply looking for a picture-perfect stop, booking a tour to The Mansion and other Baguio City top attractions ensures you won’t miss this must-visit landmark. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Baguio City’s heritage while exploring one of its top sights.
9. Visit StoBoSa Village in La Trinidad Town
Just a short drive from Baguio City will bring you to La Trinidad town in Benguet Province, where the StoBoSa community awaits. It’s a colorful and cultural stop that perfectly complements your mountain adventure.
StoBoSa, which stands for Stonehill, Botiw-tiw, and Sadjap, is a cluster of hillside communities in La Trinidad town transformed into a stunning art destination. It’s one of the most beautiful villages to visit in the Philippines, where vibrant murals blend seamlessly with the charm of everyday local life.
Inspired by the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, local artists collaborated with the residents of La Trinidad town to turn the shanty-covered hills into the StoBoSa Hillside Homes Artwork. Also called the Colors of StoBoSa, it spans 200 houses across 18,000 square meters, each mural telling a story of community and culture.
A hanging bridge in La Trinidad town leads you into the heart of the artwork, offering a perfect spot for photos and panoramic views. The vibrant colors and creative murals make StoBoSa village in La Trinidad town an unforgettable highlight of your Baguio City escapade.
8. Experience Filipino Artistry at Bencab Museum
Immerse yourself in Filipino creativity on an art and museum tour in Baguio City, with a highlight stop at the Bencab Museum. Nestled in the scenic foothills near Baguio City, the museum beautifully blends contemporary works with traditional Cordilleran aesthetics, giving you a rich and immersive experience of Filipino artistry.
Named after Philippine National Artist Benedicto Cabrera, the museum showcases his masterpieces alongside galleries dedicated to Cordillera artworks. You’ll encounter sculptures, traditional weapons, and paintings, including BenCab’s bulol collection—rice god figurines from the Ifugao people.
Don’t miss the thought-provoking exhibits in the Erotica Gallery and the Indigo Gallery, featuring works of other renowned Filipino contemporary artists. Beyond the galleries, the museum lets you connect with nature on its eco-trail, which highlights the indigenous architecture of the Ifugao, Kalinga, and Bontoc communities.
Strolling through the gardens and farm, you’ll feel the harmony between art and the lush surroundings of Baguio City. After your exploration, stop by Cafe Sabel for a taste of the Cabrera family recipes. The cozy restaurant provides a relaxing break, letting you reflect on the vibrant artistry you’ve experienced during your trip to Ben Cab Museum.
7. Immerse in Indigenous Art on the Tam-Awan Village Tour
Tam-Awan Village is one of the most unique places you can explore in Baguio City. As you walk through this creative space, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a traditional mountain community, surrounded by pine trees, fresh air, and rustic huts inspired by real Ifugao villages. It’s one of the most enriching activities to do in Baguio City, especially if you love art and culture.
Every corner of Tam-Awan Village tells a story. You’ll see life-size Ifugao huts built using authentic materials, giving you a closer look at the craftsmanship and lifestyle of indigenous communities. Take your time wandering around—you’ll discover viewing decks with serene mountain views, peaceful pathways, and spots where you can slow down and soak in the atmosphere.
If you’re craving a deeper cultural experience, check out the onsite art galleries that feature works by local and visiting artists. You can also enjoy Cordilleran dishes at the café, perfect for recharging after exploring the village. For something more hands-on, join an immersive workshop in oil painting, watercolor, drawing, or wood carving—each one lets you connect with the region’s artistic heritage.
To make your visit smooth and enriching, consider joining tours to Tam-Awan Village. A guided experience gives you insider stories, cultural context, and a deeper appreciation of the traditions preserved in this mountainside haven. It's a memorable stop that adds culture, creativity, and heart to your Baguio City.
6. Go Thrift-Shopping at the Baguio Night Market
If you love bargain hunting, you’ll have a blast exploring the Baguio Night Market in Baguio City. From 9 PM to 2 AM, Harrison Road transforms into a lively flea market packed with affordable clothes, bags, shoes, and accessories. It’s one of the best places in the Philippines to shop for ukay-ukay, the local term for high-quality secondhand and surplus fashion.
You can score jackets, boots, and unique vintage pieces for a fraction of their original price. With a bit of patience and a good eye, you might even find rare designer items in excellent condition. It’s a fun, budget-friendly experience that every thrift-loving traveler should try during a visit to Baguio City.
5. Commune with Nature at the Baguio Botanical Garden
If you’re craving peace and greenery during your trip to Baguio City, head to the Baguio Botanical Garden. This spacious garden is filled with towering pine trees, vibrant flowers, and quiet pathways that let you escape the city’s busy streets for a while. It also serves as a nursery for plants that are later used to beautify parks around the city.
As you wander around, you’ll find charming pocket gardens, pavilions honoring Baguio City’s sister cities, and statues representing Cordillera tribes. Grab a seat under the cottages, enjoy a light snack, or simply take in the fresh mountain air—this botanical haven is the perfect place to slow down and reconnect with nature.
4. Go Strawberry Picking at La Trinidad Town
Make the most of your trip to Baguio City with a strawberry farm tour in nearby La Trinidad town. Just a 30-minute drive from Baguio City, La Trinidad town is the capital of Benguet Province and a charming town known for its fertile fields and cool mountain air. Visiting here gives you a refreshing escape from the city while enjoying a hands-on agricultural experience.
The strawberries in La Trinidad town are famous for being plump, sweet, and juicy—best enjoyed right after picking. From November to May, you can wander through the fields, pick your own berries, and savor the taste of fresh fruit straight from the farm. If you prefer, you can also buy freshly harvested strawberries, fresh vegetables, or vibrant flowers.
Don’t miss treats like strawberry ice cream and strawberry taho—they’re the perfect way to end your farm adventure!
3. Explore Mines View Park
A tour to Mines View Park is a must when visiting Baguio City. Perched on a ridge, the park offers breathtaking views of the Cordillera Mountains and the remnants of Baguio City’s early 20th-century mining history. It’s the perfect spot to take in the scenery and snap unforgettable photos.
As you explore, you’ll find rows of souvenir shops selling wooden trinkets, woven crafts, knitted garments, silverworks, and even succulents and bonsai trees. You can also dress up in traditional Ifugao attire—bahag, vests, and headdresses—and pose with shields and spears for a fun cultural photo experience. Don’t forget to try Baguio City’s signature strawberry taho while you’re here!
2. Embark on an Eco-Adventure at Camp John Hay
Joining tours in Camp John Hay is one of the best Baguio City activities to add to your itinerary, especially if you love the outdoors. Once a rest and recreation base for American soldiers, this iconic spot in Baguio City now invites you to explore its pine forests, wide-open trails, and scenic nature pockets. It’s the perfect place to breathe fresh mountain air and enjoy a day surrounded by greenery.
If you’re craving adventure, head straight to the Treetop Adventure area, where you can try thrilling rides like the Superman zipline, Tree Drop free fall, and the relaxed Canopy Ride. You can also visit the Butterfly Sanctuary or hike along the peaceful Yellow Trail, lined with towering pine trees.
Whether you want heart-pumping thrills or a relaxing nature escape, Camp John Hay promises a fun and refreshing experience.
1. Explore Burnham Park
Burnham Park should be the first stop on your Baguio City escapade, especially if you want to ease into the cool mountain vibe right away. Sitting in the heart of Baguio City, this iconic attraction—often called the “mother of all parks”—welcomes you with fresh air, wide open spaces, and charming scenery just a short walk from Session Road.
As you wander through the park, you’ll see lush lawns, blooming flowers, and peaceful garden corners perfect for a laid-back morning. You can hop on a bike to explore its different sections, or simply relax at spots like the Rose Garden, Orchidarium, Picnic Grove, Children’s Playground, and Igorot Garden—each offering its own little pocket of calm.
Don’t miss Burnham Park’s most iconic attraction: the man-made Burnham Lagoon. Renting a boat and rowing across this scenic lake is a classic Baguio experience and a must-do during your Baguio City escapade.
Take your Baguio City adventure to the next level
You’ll never run out of places to explore or activities to try in Baguio City. Beyond its cool, year-round weather, this mountain city invites you to dive into cultural experiences, eco-adventures, and relaxing nature spots that make every visit feel refreshing and new.
To make your visit stress-free and unforgettable, book the 3-Day Baguio City Tour Package, which includes guided sightseeing and 2-night accommodations. Enjoy excellent value with a city tour and convenient transfers to Baguio City’s top attractions. From cultural landmarks to scenic spots, this package ensures a seamless experience, letting you focus on exploring the best of the City of Pines.
To make your highlands adventure even more memorable, extend your journey beyond the city. Consider joining a day tour to Atok town's Northern Blossom Flower Farm, where you’ll see vibrant blooms and mountain views just a few hours from Baguio City.
You can also explore more of the Cordillera Region by booking the ultimate 3-day Sagada town tour package with Banaue Rice Terraces & Baguio City side trip for a deeper look into North Luzon’s culture and landscapes.
Baguio City truly offers something for every kind of traveler. Start planning your adventure today and make every moment count!
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your Baguio City escapade? This FAQ covers everything you need to know to make your visit stress-free and fun. From the best time to visit, to top attractions, to how to get around, you’ll find tips and advice to help you enjoy this cool mountain city to the fullest.
What is Baguio City known for?
Baguio City is famous for its cool climate, pine-covered landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, it’s also celebrated for local treats like strawberry taho and ube jam, scenic parks, and thriving arts communities.
Where is Baguio City located?
Baguio City is a mountain city in the province of Benguet in the Northern Luzon region. It sits about 1,400 meters above sea level in the Cordillera Central mountain range, offering panoramic views and a refreshing climate.
What’s the best time to go to Baguio City?
The best months to visit are December to May, during the cool, dry season. This includes peak events like Christmas, New Year, and the Panagbenga Flower Festival in February. That said, Baguio City’s mild weather makes it a great destination year-round.
How do I get to Baguio City?
You can reach Baguio City by land from Manila City or Clark International Airport in Pampanga Province. You can take deluxe buses, private or shared tours, or car rentals. Travel usually takes 4–6 hours depending on traffic.
Are there guided tours available in Baguio City?
Yes! Baguio City tours often include transportation, a local guide, and stops at top attractions like Burnham Park, Tam-Awan Village, BenCab Museum, Mines View Park, Camp John Hay, and The Mansion. Some packages also include meals and entrance fees.
What should I wear in Baguio City?
Layered clothing works best in Baguio City’s cool climate. Bring a thick jacket, sweaters, scarves, and closed shoes. On warmer days, a light hoodie or jacket is enough. Rain gear is recommended during the wet season.
What are the best things to do in Baguio City?
Top Baguio City activities include boating at Burnham Park, shopping at the Night Market, visiting museums and artist villages, sampling Cordilleran cuisine, and taking day trips to nearby towns like Sagada or Atok.
How many days should I spend in Baguio City?
A 3-day stay is ideal to explore the city’s main attractions, sample local food, and even take a day trip to nearby towns. Longer stays let you fully immerse yourself in the culture, nature, and relaxed mountain pace of this charming city.
You can also book the 3-Day Baguio City Budget vacation package, which includes a guided tour, hotel accommodations, and daily breakfast—taking the stress out of planning and letting you focus on enjoying your trip.
Is Baguio City suitable for family vacations?
Absolutely! Baguio City is family-friendly, with parks, horseback riding, museums, and kid-friendly food spots. Many hotels in Baguio City and tours also cater to families with spacious accommodations and safe activities.
Is Baguio City accessible for senior travelers?
Yes! Many hotels, resorts, and attractions in Baguio City offer accessible facilities. Some natural sites, like hikes or farm tours, may require extra effort, but private tours or car rentals can make your trip comfortable and stress-free.
For a seamless experience, work with a trusted travel agency like Guide to the Philippines. Local experts can manage your travel arrangements, customize your itinerary to your preferences, and provide a worry-free, well-planned journey. Reach out via the site’s chat widget or email info@guidetothephilippines.ph to start planning.
Can I visit other places from Baguio City?
Definitely! Baguio City is a great jump-off point for highland adventures in Northern Luzon. You can book tour packages to Sagada town to explore mystical caves, hike through rolling hills, and experience its unique culture.
You can also extend your adventure with a 2-day trip to Buscalan Village, home of legendary traditional tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od, where you’ll see traditional Kalinga tattooing up close and experience the rich culture of the village firsthand.
Finally, tours to Banaue Rice Terraces will take you to this UNESCO-listed site, where you can marvel at the stunning, centuries-old terraces and learn about the rich culture and traditions of the Ifugao people.
Where can I book Baguio City tours and packages?
You can book guided tours and vacation packages at Guide to the Philippines. These curated experiences include transportation, accommodations, and local guides for a seamless and enjoyable trip.
Can I tour Baguio City on my own, or do I need to book a tour package?
Yes, you can definitely explore Baguio City on your own. However, joining guided tours to top destinations can make your trip smoother and more rewarding. Local guides share fascinating stories, handle transportation, and help you see more highlights in less time.
Booking your tour packages to Northern Luzon region in advance is highly recommended to secure your stay and spots for popular activities. It can also save you money, as on-site walk-in rates are often higher than pre-booked packages.
Are credit cards accepted, or should I bring cash?
Major credit cards work at hotels, malls, and big restaurants, but cash is recommended for small shops, street vendors, and local transport. ATMs are available, but carrying small bills is always convenient.
Is Baguio City safe for tourists?
Yes! Baguio City is generally very safe. Just follow common-sense precautions—watch your belongings, avoid unfamiliar areas at night, and follow local guidelines—and you’ll have a worry-free trip.
