Top 5 Things to Do in Baguio City (2026 Guide)

Nestled in the mountains of Benguet, Baguio City offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat with its cool climate, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, here are the five must-do experiences in the City of Pines.

Planning your trip? Learn how to get to Baguio from Manila and check our guide on where to stay in Baguio for the best experience.

1. Stroll Through Burnham Park

At the heart of Baguio lies Burnham Park, a sprawling urban oasis perfect for leisurely afternoons. Rent a swan boat and glide across the lagoon, cycle along tree-lined paths, or simply enjoy a picnic on the sprawling lawns. The park comes alive during festivals and is an ideal spot for families and couples seeking relaxation amid nature.

Practical Information:

• Hours: Open 24/7, though boat rentals operate roughly 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Free! (₱0)
• Boat Rentals: Around ₱100-150 for 30 minutes
• Bike Rentals: Approximately ₱50-100 per hour
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings (7-9 AM) for fewer crowds, or sunset for romantic ambiance
• How to Get There: Located in the city center along Harrison Road - easily walkable from Session Road or accessible by jeepney

Pro Tip: Don't miss the Rose Garden and Orchidarium for seasonal blooms, and grab strawberry taho from vendors around the park for a classic Baguio treat.

Want to dive deeper into everything this iconic park offers? Check our complete Burnham Park guide for insider tips on the best activities, hidden spots, and how to make the most of your visit.

2. Shop at Baguio Public Market

Immerse yourself in local culture at the bustling Baguio Public Market. Navigate through colorful stalls offering fresh strawberries, locally-grown vegetables, handwoven textiles, and artisan crafts. Don't miss the ukay-ukay sections for vintage finds and the upper floors where you can purchase authentic Cordillera handicrafts and woodcarvings.

Practical Information:

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM (best to visit early morning for fresh produce)
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Budget: ₱500-1,000 for souvenirs and fresh produce
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6-8 AM) for the freshest strawberries and vegetables, less crowded weekdays
• How to Get There: Located along Magsaysay Avenue and Harrison Road, walking distance from Session Road
• What to Buy: Fresh strawberries (₱200-300/kg), Sagada coffee, handwoven blankets, wooden carvings, local vegetables

Pro Tip: Haggling is expected and part of the fun! Start at 70% of the asking price and negotiate from there. Bring your own eco-bag to carry purchases.

3. Visit The Mansion and Wright Park

Take a photo at the iconic gates of The Mansion, the official summer residence of the Philippine President. Just across the street, Wright Park offers a unique horseback riding experience along its pine-bordered bridle path. The area is perfect for morning walks and captures the colonial charm that Baguio is known for.

Practical Information:

• Hours: The Mansion gates are accessible for photos during daylight hours; Wright Park is open 24/7
• Entrance Fee: Free for both
• Horseback Riding: ₱200-300 for a short ride (approximately 15-20 minutes)
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (7-9 AM) for the best light and fewer tourists
• How to Get There: Located along Leonard Wood Road; take a jeepney marked "Mansion" or "Botanical Garden" from downtown
• Photo Spots: The ornate Mansion gate, Wright Park's reflecting pool ("Pool of Pines"), horseback riding shots

Pro Tip: Walk up the stairs at Wright Park to a viewpoint overlooking the park and The Mansion - perfect for panoramic photos. If you have kids, they'll love the pony rides with smaller horses available for young children.

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4. Explore Session Road

No trip to Baguio is complete without walking down Session Road, the city's main thoroughfare. This bustling street is lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and street food vendors. Try the famous strawberry taho, warm peanuts, or visit Good Shepherd Convent to purchase their legendary ube jam and peanut brittle.

Practical Information:

• Hours: Most shops open 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM; restaurants until 10 PM or later
• Budget: ₱500-1,500 for meals and shopping
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to evening (4-7 PM) for the best people-watching and food options
• How to Get There: Session Road is the main downtown street - you'll likely pass through here during your visit
• Must-Try: Strawberry taho (₱30-50), Good Taste Restaurant (affordable Filipino meals), Vizco's strawberry shortcake, Hill Station for coffee

What to Do:

• Window shop at local boutiques
• Try street food vendors (grilled corn, fish balls, roasted peanuts)
• Visit Baguio Cathedral (104 steps up from Session Road)
• Enjoy live music at bars on weekends

Pro Tip: Session Road is closed to vehicles on some Sundays during the "Baguio Session Road in Bloom" program, making it perfect for pedestrian strolling and outdoor dining. If you love fresh strawberries, consider taking a short trip to nearby La Trinidad for the authentic strawberry picking experience – it's just 15-20 minutes away!

5. Experience Tam-awan Village

Step into a recreated Cordillera village at Tam-awan, an artist-run space showcasing indigenous Ifugao huts and contemporary Philippine art. Participate in workshops, view rotating exhibitions, or simply soak in the cultural atmosphere while learning about the region's rich heritage. The village offers an authentic glimpse into mountain province traditions.

Practical Information:

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM (some sources say until 8:00 PM)
• Entrance Fee: ₱60 for adults, ₱40 for students/seniors, ₱30 for kids under 10
• Budget: ₱60-200 (entrance + optional workshop or café meal)
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for quieter exploration and better natural lighting
• How to Get There: Located in Pinsao; take a "Long-long" jeepney from downtown Baguio (₱15-20)
• What to See: Authentic Ifugao huts, art galleries, cultural demonstrations, view deck overlooking Baguio

Activities:

• Walk through traditional tribal houses
• View local artwork and exhibitions
• Participate in art workshops (separate fee)
• Enjoy coffee at the on-site café
• Take photos in cultural attire (small tip appreciated)

Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as there's uphill walking between huts, and paths can be muddy after rain. The village occasionally hosts cultural performances - check their social media before visiting. You can even arrange overnight stays in one of the native huts for a truly immersive experience!

Where to Stay Near These Attractions: Exploring Baguio's top spots is even better when you have a comfortable home base. JMGNest offers prime location near downtown Baguio, easy access to all major attractions, modern amenities with traditional warmth, and perfect accommodations for families, couples, and groups. Explore Our Vacation Rental

Frequently Asked Questions About Baguio Activities

What is the #1 thing to do in Baguio?

For first-time visitors, Burnham Park is the quintessential Baguio experience. It's free, centrally located, and captures the essence of the city with its swan boats, gardens, and relaxed mountain atmosphere. Read our complete Burnham Park guide for everything you need to know.

How many days do you need in Baguio?

We recommend at least 3 days to comfortably cover the main attractions without rushing. This gives you time to explore downtown, visit nearby spots like La Trinidad's strawberry farm, and soak in the cool mountain ambiance. Check our 3-day Baguio itinerary for a detailed day-by-day plan, or explore our complete Baguio travel guide for comprehensive planning.

What is Baguio most famous for?

Baguio is famous for being the "Summer Capital of the Philippines" with its cool climate (15-23°C year-round), fresh strawberries, the iconic Session Road, pine trees, and the annual Panagbenga Flower Festival held every February. Learn more about the best time to visit Baguio to catch festivals and perfect weather.

Is Baguio worth visiting in 2025?

Absolutely! Despite urbanization, Baguio retains its charm with well-preserved parks, vibrant culture, and accessible mountain beauty. The city has also improved its infrastructure and tourism facilities, making it easier than ever to explore while maintaining its nostalgic appeal.

What should I not miss in Baguio?

Beyond these top 5, don't miss: strawberry picking in La Trinidad (November-May), Good Shepherd Convent for pasalubong, Mines View Park for stunning mountain panoramas, and the Baguio Night Market for bargain shopping and street food.

Can you do all these activities in one day?

While it's possible to visit all 5 locations in a packed day, we recommend spreading them across 2-3 days to truly enjoy each experience. Baguio is best savored slowly, not rushed. Check how to get to Baguio from Manila to plan your trip.

Plan Your Perfect Baguio Experience

Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Baguio's diverse attractions promise memorable experiences for every type of traveler. From the serene swan boats of Burnham Park to the cultural immersion at Tam-awan Village, each destination offers a unique window into what makes this mountain city special.

Before You Go:

• Discover the best neighborhoods to stay in Baguio
• Learn how to get to Baguio from Manila
• Explore our complete Baguio travel guide
• Plan your days with our 3-day Baguio itinerary

The key to enjoying Baguio is taking your time - the city's charm reveals itself to those who slow down and embrace the cool mountain pace.

Ready to Experience Baguio? Make the most of your Baguio adventure with a comfortable, well-located place to stay. Book your stay at JMGNest and enjoy prime location near all top attractions, comfortable accommodations for families and groups, local tips and recommendations from your hosts, and the perfect home base for exploring the City of Pines. View Photos & Amenities | Book Now