3-Day Adventure and Cultural Exploration in Baguio City, Philippines

Embark on a 3-day cultural and nature-filled adventure in Baguio City, Philippines. Explore iconic landmarks like Burnham Park, Mines View Park, and the BenCab Museum. Savor local cuisine and experience the thrill of Tree Top Adventure Baguio.

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Day 1: Arrival in Baguio City:

09:00 AM - Arrive at Manila Airport: Welcome to the Philippines! Your adventure begins at Manila Airport, the gateway to this beautiful archipelago. The airport is bustling with activity, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the Filipino people.
10:00 AM - Take a domestic flight from Manila to Baguio City: After a brief stay in Manila, you'll board a domestic flight to Baguio City. This short flight offers stunning aerial views of the Philippine landscape, from the azure waters of the South China Sea to the lush greenery of the Cordillera mountains.
11:00 AM - Check-in at your hotel in Baguio City: Upon arrival in Baguio City, check into your hotel and take some time to settle in. Known as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines", Baguio City offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.
12:00 PM - Lunch at Café by the Ruins: For lunch, head to Café by the Ruins, a charming eatery located on Chuntug Street. Known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative fusion of Filipino and Western cuisine, this café offers a unique dining experience in a rustic setting.
01:30 PM - Visit Burnham Park: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Burnham Park, a popular local attraction located on Harrison Road. This park is a haven of tranquility, with its manicured gardens, serene lake, and picturesque walking paths. Did you know? Burnham Park was named after Daniel Burnham, the American architect who designed the city of Baguio.
03:00 PM - Explore Mines View Park: Next, head to Mines View Park, a scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. This park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with its vibrant flower stalls, souvenir shops, and photo opportunities with adorable Saint Bernard dogs.
05:00 PM - Enjoy the sunset at The Mansion: As the day draws to a close, make your way to The Mansion, the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines. Here, you can enjoy a breathtaking sunset against the backdrop of this historic building. Did you know? The Mansion was built in 1908 and is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in Baguio City.
07:00 PM - Dinner at Oh My Gulay: End your day with a delicious meal at Oh My Gulay, a vegetarian restaurant located on Session Road. With its eclectic décor, art gallery, and menu of healthy, flavorful dishes, this restaurant offers a dining experience like no other.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration in Baguio City:

08:00 AM - Breakfast at Arca's Yard: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Arca's Yard, a charming café nestled in the heart of Baguio City. Known for its cozy ambiance and stunning views of the Cordillera mountains, Arca's Yard offers a variety of breakfast options, from traditional Filipino dishes to Western-style meals. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
09:30 AM - Visit Tam-Awan Village: After breakfast, head to Tam-Awan Village, a reconstructed traditional village that showcases the rich culture and history of the indigenous people of the Cordillera region. Here, you can explore traditional huts, participate in craft workshops, and even meet local artists. Did you know? Tam-Awan Village is also known as the "Garden in the Sky" due to its high elevation and panoramic views of the South China Sea on clear days!
11:00 AM - Explore BenCab Museum: Next, visit the BenCab Museum, home to the works of Benedicto Cabrera, one of the Philippines' national artists. The museum also houses a vast collection of indigenous Cordillera art, providing a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.
01:00 PM - Lunch at Canto Bogchi Joint: For lunch, head to Canto Bogchi Joint, a popular eatery known for its lomo ribs and other Filipino-American fusion dishes. With its rustic ambiance and generous servings, Canto Bogchi Joint is a must-visit for food lovers.
02:30 PM - Discover Baguio Cathedral: After lunch, visit the Baguio Cathedral, also known as Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral. This majestic church offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the city. Did you know? The cathedral was used as an evacuation center during World War II!
04:00 PM - Visit Botanical Garden: Spend the afternoon at the Botanical Garden, a beautiful park filled with a variety of plants and flowers. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, take beautiful photos, or simply relax amidst nature.
06:00 PM - Dinner at Good Taste Café and Restaurant: End your day with a hearty meal at Good Taste Café and Restaurant, a local favorite known for its affordable yet delicious dishes. From their famous buttered chicken to their hearty pansit, there's something for everyone at Good Taste.

Day 3: Nature and Adventure:

07:00 - Breakfast at Choco-late de Batirol: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Choco-late de Batirol, a charming café nestled in Igorot Park. Known for its traditional Filipino breakfast and signature hot chocolate, this café offers a unique dining experience amidst the cool Baguio weather. The hot chocolate is made from locally sourced cacao and prepared using a traditional wooden whisk called a 'batirol'.
08:30 - Explore Mount Costa: After breakfast, head to Mount Costa, a sprawling garden filled with themed landscapes. From a Greek-inspired garden to a maze made of plants, there's something for everyone. This is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Did you know? Mount Costa is considered the largest garden in the Philippines, spanning over 23 hectares!
10:30 - Visit La Trinidad Strawberry Farm: Next, visit the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm in Benguet. Here, you can pick your own strawberries and learn about the farming process. The farm offers a unique experience that combines agriculture and tourism. Did you know? La Trinidad is known as the Strawberry Capital of the Philippines!
12:00 - Lunch at Café by the Ruins Dua: For lunch, head to Café by the Ruins Dua, a sister restaurant of the famous Café by the Ruins. Known for its fresh, organic ingredients and innovative Filipino dishes, this café is a must-visit for foodies.
01:30 - Experience Tree Top Adventure Baguio: In the afternoon, get your adrenaline pumping at Tree Top Adventure Baguio. This eco-adventure park offers a variety of thrilling activities such as zip-lining, rappelling, and the Tree Drop Adventure. Did you know? The park is committed to preserving the environment and uses eco-friendly materials for its facilities!
04:00 - Explore Camp John Hay: Spend the late afternoon exploring Camp John Hay, a former rest and recreation facility for the United States Armed Forces. Now, it's a resort complex featuring a convention center, a hotel, a shopping center, and a golf course. Don't miss the chance to walk along the Echo Valley and the Secret Garden. Did you know? Camp John Hay was named after John Milton Hay, a former United States Secretary of State!
07:00 - Dinner at Ketchup Food Community: End your day with dinner at Ketchup Food Community, a food hub that offers a variety of cuisines. Whether you're craving for Filipino, Thai, or American food, you'll find something to satisfy your palate. Enjoy your meal as you reflect on the day's adventures and look forward to your next visit to Baguio City.

Tips & Recommendations

  1. Baguio City: Weather Prep: Baguio City is known as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines" due to its cool climate. It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater for the chilly evenings.
  2. Baguio City: Transportation: The most convenient way to get from Manila to Baguio City is by bus or private car. The journey takes about 4-6 hours.
  3. Baguio City: Local Delicacies: Don't miss out on trying the local delicacies such as strawberry taho and ukoy (shrimp fritters) while in Baguio City.
  4. Baguio City: Art Appreciation: Visit Ili-Likha Artists Village to appreciate local art and culture.
  5. Baguio City: Night Market Shopping: Experience the famous Baguio Night Market at Harrison Road for affordable clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.
  6. Baguio City: Hotel Recommendations: For a comfortable stay, consider booking at The Manor at Camp John Hay or Le Monet Hotel.
  7. General Tip: Currency: The local currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (₱). It's advisable to have some cash on hand as not all establishments accept credit cards.

Climate & Weather

  • Baguio City: Known as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines", Baguio City is blessed with a cool climate all year round. The city experiences a subtropical highland climate, with temperatures that rarely exceed 26 degrees Celsius, even in the hottest summer months. Rainfall is significant in Baguio, with the wet season generally starting from May and ending in October. If you're planning to visit Burnham Park or Mines View Park, it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat. Also, despite the cool weather, don't forget to apply sunscreen when exploring The Mansion or Tam-Awan Village. For those who are planning to visit La Trinidad Strawberry Farm, it's best to check the local weather forecast as heavy rains can affect the strawberry picking activity.

What Locals Love

Baguio City, Philippines:

  • Baguio Craft Brewery: A local favorite, this brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers and a great view of the city.
  • Mt. Cloud Bookshop: A charming bookstore that locals love for its selection of Philippine literature and cozy atmosphere.
  • Chaya: A Japanese restaurant loved by locals for its fresh ingredients and authentic dishes.
  • Baguio Public Market: A bustling market where locals go to buy fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional Filipino snacks.
  • Eco Park: A beautiful park off the beaten path, perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic.
  • Baguio Museum: A museum showcasing the rich history and culture of Baguio and the Cordillera region.

Remember, the best way to experience a place is often to step off the beaten path. Engage with locals, try the street food, and let the rhythm of the cities guide you.