Baguio Travel Guide 2024: Where to Stay, Eat, Must-Visit Destinations, and Itinerary

Visiting Baguio for the forst time?
by Ina Louise Manto | March 26, 2024

Nestled in the northern highlands, Baguio remains a favorite destination for a relaxing getaway. The weather is cool and pleasant all year round, public transportation is accessible, there are activities for all ages, and most importantly, travel time to the city has been cut short. Whether you’re visiting for a quick getaway or a week-long holiday, it’s a city that you’ll just keep returning to.

If you’re planning to visit the country’s Summer Capital, we’ve got you covered with this travel guide:

How to go to Baguio from Manila

You can take a private car or commute via bus to get to Baguio. Here are the bus operators and prices:

How many hours Manila to Baguio: Travel Time

You can get to Baguio from Metro Maila in four to five hours, but this can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.

Here is our experience with Genesis JoyBus:

@windowseat.ph This is your sign to go to Baguio ️ #joybus #fyp #baguio #WindowSeatPh #YourWindowSeatToTheWorld ♬ original sound – WindowSeat.Ph – WindowSeat.ph

The JoyBus has a terminal in Cubao and Pasay.

Back to Table of Contents

How to get around Baguio

To avoid contributing to the city’s traffic, it’s advisable to use public transportation when going around Baguio. The common forms of transportation around the city are jeepneys and taxis, and if you want a more comfortable ride, Grab works there, too.

The Baguio government launched the Baguio Hop-On Hop-Off route in 2022 to circumvent traffic from the influx of tourists. Open exclusively to tourists, the free bus rides have four stops around the city: Baguio Convention Center to the Botanical Garden, Mansion House, Mines View Park, and Wright Park.

Back to Table of Contents

Where to stay in Baguio: 4 Popular Baguio Hotels

Depending on your preference and budget, Baguio offers many accommodations. If you’re a first-timer and wish to curate a more touristy itinerary, staying around Burnham Park or Session Road is ideal.

1. Casa Vallejo

Location: 231, Baguio

Nestled just a stone’s throw away from SM Baguio and Session Road, Casa Vallejo is Baguio’s oldest hotel. It was built in 1909 as a dormitory and has seen the city’s changes throughout its century-old age. Hill Station, one of Baguio’s well-beloved restaurants, can also be found here.

Rates start at P6,780 per night for a Standard Fan Room.

2. The Manor

Location: Ordonio Dr, Camp John Hay, Baguio

Cabin stays are what you think of when in Baguio. If you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation away from the hubbub of the city, find yourself a cozy room at The Manor and be surrounded by towering pine trees and lush greenery.

Rates start at P10,000 per night for a Superior Room – Garden View.

3. The Forest Lodge

Location: Loakan Rd, Camp John Hay, Baguio, 2600

Also located inside Camp John Hay, The Forest Lodge offers a more affordable accommodation option if you wish to experience staying in a cabin-like hotel. It’s also just walking distance from The Manor if you want to visit the bigger hotel and go sightseeing.

Rates start at P5,300 per night for a Deluxe Room.

4. Baguio Country Club

Location: Country Club Rd, Camp John Hay, Baguio

Known as the country’s first and only five-star mountain resort, Baguio Country Club offers the most luxurious stay in Baguio and one of its famous historical landmarks. The country club was established in 1905 and remains among the most prestigious names in Philippine society.

Rates for non-members start at P12,500 per night for a Deluxe Room.

Check out these other stays around Baguio City:

Back to Table of Contents

Where to go in Baguio: 15 Baguio Tourist Spots

1. Burnham Park

Location: Abad Santos Drive, Baguio

Nestled right in the heart of the city, Burnham Park is one of the most popular spots in Baguio. This family-friendly spot has many activities to offer, with boat rides on the lake as a must-do activity. There’s no wonder why people of all ages have fond memories here. You can dine, bike, jog, shop for souvenirs, or simply go people-watching when you visit.

Opening hours: 24/7

Entrance fee: Free

2. Camp John Hay

Location: John Hay Special Economic Zone Loakan Road, Baguio City

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Camp John Hay (@campjohnhayph)

Want to achieve Taylor Swift Folklore-like shots? Head over to Camp John Hay, where you’ll witness towering pine trees and breathe fresh air. This massive property is home to different sections, from iconic hotels and restaurants to recreational spots.

Operating hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 7 PM (depending on the area you’re visiting)

Entrance fee: Free

3. Baguio Botanical Garden

Location: 37 Leonard Wood Rd, Baguio, 2600 Benguet

Baguio Botanical Garden is the place to be for learning the Igorot people’s culture and appreciating different species of plants, such as sunflowers, succulents, and orchids. History buffs will also enjoy here as one of the garden’s main attractions includes the Japanese Tunnels. The 150-meter-long tunnel was used for storage, bunker, and treatment during the Second World War.

Operating hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 7 PM.

Entrance fee: PHP100 for adults, PHP25 for children aged 12 and below

4. Ili-Likha Artists Village

Location: 32 Assumption Road, Baguio

Photo by Ina Manto for WindowSeat.PH

Owned by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, Ili-Likha is an awe-inspiring village if you’re looking to get inspired by good art and treat yourself to good food. The multi-level structure made of wood houses restaurants, shops, and cafes and features unique sculptures and installations. It’s a picture-worthy maze you’d love to get lost in.

Operating hours: 10 AM to 7 PM.

Entrance fee: Free

5. Igorot Stone Kingdom

Location: Long Long Benguet Road, Baguio

Nestled on a 6,000-square-meter property, Igorot Stone Kingdom is one of the newest attractions in Baguio City. It’s a theme park recreating an old Igorot Kingdom, which guests are free to explore. Wear comfy shoes when you visit, as there are lots of spots to see.

Operating hours: Open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM

Entrance fee: PHP 100 for adults and PHP 80 for children 12 years and below

6. La Trinidad Strawberry Farm

Location: La Trinidad, Benguet

Thanks to Baguio’s climate, Filipinos are able to taste locally grown strawberries. Visiting the Baguio Strawberry Farm is a perfect activity for first-timers, as you’ll experience harvesting these plump and juicy fresh fruits. The farm will also let you appreciate a beautiful view of La Trinidad, so be ready to take lots of snaps.

Operating hours: 7 AM to 5:30 PM

Entrance fee: Free

7. Baguio Night Market

Location: Harrison Road, Baguio

Photo by Ina Manto for WindowSeat.PH

Baguio’s Night Market is an experience that shouldn’t be missed when in the cool city. From thrift shopping to finding unique wooden souvenirs, this night market occupies Harrison Road, which is just a few steps away from SM Baguio. The market gets really packed, especially on weekends; we recommend bringing a small bag you can keep close to your body to avoid getting pickpocketed. Be vigilant while shopping!

Operating hours: Open daily from 9 PM to 4 AM

Entrance fee: Free

8. Philippine Military Academy

Location: General Gregorio del Pilar, Baguio

PMA is the country’s premier academy for aspiring military officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The academy also houses a museum and displays vintage tanks. Don’t forget to check its Facebook page for updates, as there are days the academy closes to tourists to make way for special events.

Entrance fee: PHP 20

9. Mines View Park

Mines View Park’s deck treats tourists to unobstructed views of the Cordilleras, which has easily become one of its famous spots. Tourists can also experience horseback riding, shop for silver jewelry, and snack on Baguio delicacies here.

Operating hours: Open daily until 8 PM

Entrance fee: Free

10. Baguio Cathedral

Location: Session Road, Baguio

Also known as the Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, the Baguio Cathedral is a must-visit, especially for Roman Catholics.

Operating hours: 5 AM to 7 PM

Entrance fee: Free

11. Diplomat Hotel

Location: Dominican Hill, Diplomat Road, Baguio

Aside from its cold weather, beautiful blooms, and fresh strawberries, Baguio is also known for many paranormal accounts, given its history. One landmark known among fans of dark tourism is the Diplomat Hotel, which was originally built as a vacation house for Dominican priests and nuns in the early 1900s. During the Second World War, it became a refuge center for the Japanese and was rehabilitated as a hotel in the 1970s. The hotel has already been abandoned and closed for years, but it remains a landmark in Baguio. You can no longer explore its grounds, but you can still take photos outside.

Operating hours: Open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM

Entrance fee: PHP 10

12. BenCab Museum

Location: 91 KM., Asin Road, Tuba 2603 Benguet

BenCab Museum is nestled outside of Baguio City, but it’s going to be worth the drive as it houses artworks by National Artist for Visual Benedicto Cabrera. This personal museum also features other local artists’ work, as well as a little cafe overlooking Cabrera’s garden and surrounding mountains. You might also see him when you visit, so don’t forget to ask for a photo when you have the chance!

Operating hours: Open on Tuesdays to Sundays from 9 AM to 6 PM

Entrance fee: PHP200 for general admission, PHP150 for seniors and PWDs, PHP120 for students, and free entrance for children

13. Mirador Heritage and Eco-Spirituality Park

Location: Mirador Jesuit and Retreat House, Mirador Hill, Baguio

This eco-spirituality park is another new attraction in Baguio, which stands on a hill that was formerly the Lourdes Grotto. It overlooks the surrounding mountains, and it’s known for its bamboo sanctuary and tori gate, which you would find in Japan. If you would like to have photos among towering bamboo chutes like in Arashimaya Bamboo Forest, this is the place to be. There are other spots to explore around the park as well, including gardens, prayer houses, and a cafe.

Operating hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM

Entrance fee: PHP 100 for adults, free entrance for children below 12 years old

14. Colors of StoBoSa

Location: Baguio – La Trinidad – Bontoc Road, Pico, Baguio

Also known as the Valley of Colors, the Colors of StoBoSa is an artistic project with three participating sitios in La Trinidad: Stonehill, Botiwtiw, and Sadjap. About 300 houses on these hills were repainted by over 500 volunteers as a huge artwork, giving birth to this attractive tourist destination.

Operating hours: Open daily

Entrance fee: Free

15. Bell Church

Location: Municipal Hall, KM. 5, Pico, La Trinidad, Benguet

Founded in 1960, the Bell Church is a cultural and religious site for the local Chinese community in Benguet. It was formerly known as the Chinese Buddhist Temple and now sits on a 10,000-square-meter property. Inside, you’ll also find a manicured garden and ponds at the temple’s entry.

Operating hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 5 PM

Entrance fee: PHP 20

Back to Table of Contents

Where to eat in Baguio: 5 Best Restaurants in Baguio

Aside from its picture-worthy views of nature and the highlands, one of the best things to do in Baguio is indulge in comfort food. There are many well-beloved restaurants around the city, serving different cuisines – from Filipino to international. Here are our top picks:

1. GoodTaste Restaurant

Some may say it’s already overrated, but the consistently long lines in branches tell otherwise. There’s no wonder why there’s always a crowd outside this restaurant: the variety of Filipino dishes, hefty servings, and prices that won’t break the bank.

Location: Otek Street, Baguio, Benguet

Operating hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 12 AM

Average cost: Group meals for six pax start at PHP1,315

2. Choco-late de Batirol

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Choco-late de Batirol Official (@chocolatedebatirolbaguio)

What’s a trip to Baguio without having a hot cup of batirol from this garden restaurant? We all deserve an indulgent drink that surely complements Baguio’s cold weather.

Location: Igorot Park, Camp John Hay, Baguio

Operating hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays to Mondays and 8 AM to 9 PM on Tuesdays to Fridays

Average cost: Check the menu here.

3. Oh My Gulay

Don’t fret if you’re vegetarian or vegan, as Oh My Gulay, as the name suggests, serves vegetarian food. This unique restaurant, owned by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik sits on the 5th floor of a building along Session Road. It also serves as an art space for paintings, installations, and sculptures.

Location: 5F La Azotea Building, Session Road, Baguio

Operating hours: 11 AM to 7 PM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; 11 AM to 8 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays.

Average cost: Check the menu here.

4. Vizco’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Vizcos Restaurant (@vizcos_restaurant)

Did you know that Vizco’s also serves meals and snacks besides its famous strawberry shortcake and desserts? If you’re looking for a dessert place in Session Road, make sure to pay this all-time fave restaurant a visit

Location: Porta Vaga Mall, Session Road, Baguio

Operating hours: Open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM

Average cost: Check their menu here.

5. Hill Station

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Hill Station (@hillstationbaguio)

Nestled inside the legendary Casa Vallejo, Hill Station is another well-beloved Baguio restaurant known for its grand hall and Asian, European, and American cuisine. If you’re looking for a place to share a romantic dinner with a partner, Hill Station is one of the best places to be. Make sure to book a reservation as it gets packed in the evening.

Location: Casa Vallejo, Upper Session Road, Baguio

Operating hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 10 PM on Mondays to Thursdays and 7 AM to 10 PM on Fridays to Sundays

Average cost: See the menu here.

Check out more of our recommendations here:

Back to Table of Contents

What to Buy in Baguio: Famous Products in Baguio

When in Baguio, don’t forget to bring an extra bag for your goodies. Here are our top pasalubong picks that your loved ones will appreciate:

Where is the best place to buy pasalubong in Baguio?

While there are plenty of pasalubong centers you’ll find around the city, one of the best places for your shopping is heading to Baguio City Market on Magsaysay Avenue. Here, you’ll find goods and souvenirs at decent prices, including delicacies that come in bundles, coffee roasters, and freshly picked produce.

If you plan on bringing fresh strawberries back home, you can also ask the vendors to give you ones that are good for travel (unripe strawberries) to avoid spoilage.

Back to Table of Contents

What to Do in Baguio: Sample 3 Days 2 Nights Baguio Itinerary

Back to Table of Contents

Tourist Spot in Baguio Map Guide 2024

To help you prepare for your Baguio trip, we’ve mapped all of our recommendations for your reference: