BAGUIO CITY & BENGUET
Baguio City, the Philippines’ “Summer Capital,” offers a cool, mountain retreat with a rich history, pine-scented air, and a vibrant arts scene. It is the heart of the Cordillera Administrative Region.
This subregion, encompassing Baguio and its surrounding Benguet province, is a land of stunning natural beauty, thriving indigenous culture, and agricultural wonders like the famous La Trinidad strawberry farms.
Most Popular Attractions
Baguio City Core & Historical Sites:
Burnham Park: The city’s main public park, featuring a man-made lake with rowboats, cycling areas, and beautiful gardens.
Mines View Park: An observation deck offering panoramic views of the Benguet mountains and the old gold mining sites.
Baguio Cathedral (Our Lady of Atonement Parish): A distinctive pink-hued church and a major landmark of the city.
Wright Park: Known for its “Pool of Pines” and the long staircase leading to the Mansion House.
The Mansion: The official summer residence of the President of the Philippines, visible from the main gate.
Camp John Hay: A former American recreational facility, now a beautiful resort complex with a golf course, forest trails, and historical landmarks.
Philippine Military Academy (PMA): The premier military institution of the country, with grounds open to the public for visits.
Baguio Public Market: A bustling hub offering local produce, famous pasalubong (souvenirs), and fresh Benguet coffee.
Baguio Museum: Dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, arts, and culture of the Cordillera region.
Arts, Culture & Modern Sites:
BenCab Museum: The private museum of National Artist Ben “BenCab” Cabrera, featuring his work and a collection of indigenous Cordillera art.
Ili-likha Artist Village: A creative and ecological space with unique architecture and various food stalls, celebrating Cordillera artistry.
Mirador Jesuit Villa Retreat House: Offers a serene escape and historical sites, including the Arko ni Apo (Arch of the Lord).
Laperal House: An old Victorian house famous for its haunting legends and beautiful architecture.
Benguet Province & Natural Wonders:
Strawberry Farms (La Trinidad): The vast fields where the famous sweet strawberries of Benguet are grown, offering picking experiences.
Mount Pulag National Park: Home to the third-highest mountain in the Philippines, famous for its “sea of clouds” phenomenon.
Timbac Caves (Kabayan, Benguet): Burial caves containing well-preserved centuries-old Ibaloi mummies.
Mount Sto. Tomas: A mountain offering high-altitude views of the city and nearby provinces.
Northern Blossom Flower Farm (Atok, Benguet): Known for its stunning rows of cabbages and various high-altitude blooms like roses and snapdragons.
Ambuklao Dam: A hydroelectric dam surrounded by scenic mountain views.
Asin Hot Springs: A series of hot springs just outside Baguio, known for their therapeutic waters.
Colosboa (Tuba, Benguet): A newly popular viewpoint offering stunning cloudscape and mountain vistas.
Activities & Experiences
Hike to Mount Yangbew (La Trinidad): Enjoy a relatively easy pre-dawn hike near Baguio to catch a spectacular sunrise over the Cordillera mountain range.
Pick Strawberries in La Trinidad: Visit the famous Strawberry Farms in La Trinidad, Benguet, and pick your own fresh strawberries (seasonal).
Explore Mines View Park: Take in the panoramic view of the Benguet mountains and gold and copper mines. Be sure to try the local peanut brittle and ube jam.
Visit the BenCab Museum: Discover the impressive collection of Filipino contemporary art and Cordillera indigenous culture housed in a stunning mountain setting outside Baguio.
Go Trekking in Mount Cabuyao/Sto. Tomas: Drive or hike up to enjoy cooler temperatures and views of Baguio City and the surrounding mountains (check current access regulations).
Take a Boat Ride on Burnham Park Lake: Rent a colorful swan boat and paddle across the man-made lake at the heart of Baguio City.
Explore The Mansion & Wright Park: Walk along the scenic bridle paths of Wright Park, often stopping for a horseback riding photo op, right next to the official summer residence of the Philippine President.
Visit the Tam-awan Village: Explore this “living museum” which features authentic reconstructions of Cordillera huts and hosts local artists who demonstrate traditional crafts.
Attend the Panagbenga Festival (Seasonal): If visiting in February, immerse yourself in the vibrant “Flower Festival” known for its spectacular floral floats and street dancing.
Go White Water Rafting on the Chico River: For the more adventurous, take a trip further north into Benguet’s neighbor, Kalinga, for a thrilling rafting experience (requires a full day trip).
Hike the Historical Trails of Camp John Hay: Walk the scenic trails within the former American recreation center, surrounded by pine forests, and visit The Bell House.
Shop for Local Woven Products: Browse the public markets and shops for authentic Ilocano blankets, native clothing, wood carvings, and Cordillera jewelry.
Taste Local Coffee and Cacao: Sample the famous Benguet Arabica coffee and locally grown cacao products in one of Baguio’s many cozy cafes.
Explore the “Valley of Colors” (Stobosa, La Trinidad): Drive through or stop to photograph the colorful, hillside mural that has transformed the Stobosa community into a vibrant landmark.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is King in the City: Baguio City’s main attractions (Session Road, Burnham Park, Market) are relatively close together but involve traversing steep slopes. Be prepared for uphill and downhill walking.
Taxis are Abundant and Affordable: Taxis are the most convenient way to navigate Baguio. They are metered and relatively inexpensive. Just be aware that during peak hours (e.g., afternoon rush, holidays), it can be difficult to hail one, and traffic can be heavy.
Jeepneys for the Local Experience: The iconic Filipino jeepney is the primary public transport for both Baguio and travel to and from Benguet towns. They follow fixed routes and are the most economical way to travel (fares start at around $0.20). Look for the route sign on the front windshield.
Travel to Benguet: To reach towns like La Trinidad or areas like the vegetable terraces, you will need to use a jeepney or hire a taxi for a longer trip. Private vans or cars are recommended for trips further out into the mountain trails and remote tourist spots of Benguet Province.
From the Lowlands: The most common way to arrive is via bus from Manila (approximately 4-7 hours). Various companies offer comfortable, air-conditioned options, some with wi-fi. A premium bus ticket typically costs around $15-$25 one-way.
Dress in Layers: Baguio is known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” for its cool climate. Evenings and early mornings are chilly, especially outside the city in Benguet, with temperatures dropping below 15°C (59°F). A light jacket and warm clothes are essential.
Barter & Haggling: When shopping at the Baguio Public Market for souvenirs, fresh produce, or woven goods, polite haggling is an accepted part of the culture, especially when buying multiple items.
Dining Culture: Baguio has a vibrant food scene, blending traditional Cordillera cuisine with modern cafes and international flavors. Local staples include Pinikpikan (a local chicken dish) and the various kinds of Kinuday (smoked meat). Dinner is typically eaten between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Respect Local Customs: The greater Benguet region is home to various indigenous groups (Igorot). Be respectful of their culture. Always ask permission before taking photos of locals, particularly those in traditional attire, and avoid treating sacred sites or rituals purely as photo opportunities.
Hidden Gems:
Mirador Jesuit Villa Retreat House: Offers a serene escape with beautiful views and a historical eco-park, including the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. It’s a quiet alternative to the more crowded viewpoints.
Camp John Hay Bell House & Cemetery of Negativism: While Camp John Hay is known, the “Cemetery of Negativism” tucked within its grounds is a quirky, thought-provoking area dedicated to burying negative thoughts and attitudes.
Diplomat Hotel: A historic, abandoned building on Dominican Hill with a rich, sometimes eerie, past. It offers spectacular panoramic views and is a popular spot for photography.
Oh My Gulay (OMG) Vegetarian Restaurant: Located inside the Artists’ Center on Session Road, this restaurant features amazing views, unique art installations, and delicious, healthy vegetarian Filipino dishes.
Top Restaurants
The Farmer’s Daughter Restaurant [$10-$20] – A charming native-style hut near Tam-awan Village specializing in authentic Cordilleran and Ibaloi dishes like Pinikpikan (native chicken stew) and Etag (smoked, cured meat).
Bistro Lokal [$15-$25] – A restaurant focusing on modern Filipino cuisine using organic, local, and Cordilleran ingredients, offering a creative take on regional flavors in a rustic setting.
Balajadia Kitchenette [$5-$10] – A long-standing, no-frills local eatery (carinderia) in the Slaughter Compound known for serving hearty, classic Filipino and Ilocano comfort food, especially for workers and locals.
Good Taste Cafe & Restaurant [$5-$15] – A Baguio institution and local favorite, popular for its huge servings of affordable Filipino and Chinese dishes, open 24/7 (Warning: Can be very busy).
O’ Mai Khan [$10-$20] – A cozy Cordilleran-themed restaurant known for its unique cultural ambiance and a menu featuring Cordilleran specialties and grilled dishes.
Solibao Restaurant [$8-$18] – A classic, homegrown Filipino restaurant established in the 1970s, cherished by locals for its Sunday lunch staples like kare-kare and its meriendas (snacks).
Luisa’s Cafe [$5-$12] – One of the city’s oldest cafes, a popular hangout for local journalists and long-time residents, known for its Chinese menu, especially its siopao (steamed buns) and noodles.
Forest House Bistro & Cafe [$15-$25] – A cozy, rustic log cabin with a fireplace, offering a blend of Filipino, American, and continental dishes, known for its comforting Baguio atmosphere.
Half-day Kitchen [$8-$15] – A local spot known for its honest, home-cooked Filipino meals and generous portions, often favored by Baguio residents over the more mainstream places.
Dampa sa Apo [$15-$25] – Offers a seafood Dampa style of dining where you choose fresh ingredients and have them cooked to your preference, often frequented by locals looking for quality seafood.
Chef’s Home [$15-$25] – A humble, family-run restaurant that serves excellent and authentic Southeast Asian (particularly Malaysian and Thai) cuisine with a loyal local following.
Ganza Cafe [$10-$20] – Located in the heart of the city, offering Filipino and Cordilleran meals, and known for being a simple, reliable spot for local dishes.
Inihaw Republic [$8-$15] – A popular spot for grilled meats and seafood (inihaw), offering classic Filipino barbecue flavors in a casual setting.
Chowking (Baguio Branches) [$5-$10] – While a national chain, the Baguio branches are a local staple for quick Chinese-Filipino comfort food like La Paz Batchoy (noodle soup) during the cold weather.
Kubong ni Kalbo [$10-$20] – A simple, authentic place in a native-style hut that serves regional Filipino cuisine, specializing in grilled dishes and local favorites.
Canto Bogchi Joint [$10-$20] – A highly popular spot known for its signature Lomo Ribs, a tender pork dish with a secret sauce, serving American comfort food with an Asian-Filipino touch.
Cafe by the Ruins [$12-$25] – A Baguio classic housed in the ruins of a pre-war mansion, serving modern Filipino and global cuisine with a focus on fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients.
Hill Station [$18-$35] – Located in the historic Casa Vallejo, this restaurant offers a “mountain town” cuisine that blends Asian spice with Old World European and New World American flavors.
Lemon and Olives Greek Taverna [$15-$30] – Baguio’s first authentic Greek restaurant, offering traditional Mediterranean dishes like Moussaka and Souvlaki in a charming country house setting with a scenic view.
Amare La Cucina [$12-$25] – An Italian restaurant famous for its traditional Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-fired brick oven, offering a hands-on experience by letting guests create their own pizza.
Grumpy Joe [$10-$20] – A local favorite known for its generous servings of American comfort food, especially its pizzas (famous for its thick crust) and spicy seafood pasta.
Oh My Gulay! [$8-$15] – Located atop a building on Session Road, this whimsical, art-filled vegetarian restaurant (owned by national artist Kidlat Tahimik) offers a creative menu of healthy, Filipino-inspired meatless dishes.
Ili-Likha Artists Village [$5-$15] – Not one restaurant, but an art and food hub with multi-level, treehouse-style structures hosting various small food stalls specializing in local and health-conscious food.
Tsokolateria Artisanal Cafe [$10-$20] – Specializes in dishes centered around Philippine cacao, offering rich, thick hot chocolate and modern Filipino dishes like adobo and tuyo (dried fish) served with chocolate.
Secret Garden [$12-$25] – An Italian restaurant tucked away in an actual garden setting, known for its thin-crust pizzas, pasta, and cozy, romantic ambiance.
Arca’s Yard Café [$10-$20] – Located on a tranquil hillside, this cafe and library offers a unique blend of Filipino and Western cuisine, famous for its Cloud Tea and scenic, homey atmosphere.
Choco-laté de Batirol [$8-$18] – Located in Camp John Hay, a garden restaurant specializing in traditional Filipino hot chocolate (made in a batirol) and classic Filipino breakfast and comfort food.
Foam Coffee and Roastery [$8-$15] – A local specialty coffee shop that also serves great quality food, from breakfast to pasta and sandwiches, often frequented by Baguio’s creative crowd.
Red Soil [$12-$25] – A casual dining spot that focuses on using and promoting local Benguet produce and ingredients in their modern Filipino and fusion dishes.
Roadhouse Barn Restaurant [$15-$30] – A rustic restaurant in Tuba, Benguet, known for its picturesque mountain views and serving great steaks and hearty Filipino-Italian fusion food.
Craft 1945 [$15-$30] – Offers a menu of Spanish-Filipino cuisine, with excellent tapas and paella, paired with a selection of local craft beers from Baguio Craft Brewery.
Patch Cafe (at Grumpy Joe Gibraltar) [$10-$20] – Offers comfort food and all-day breakfast in a cozy, modern setting, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and great coffee.
Everything Nice Cake Shop & Cafe [$10-$20] – Known for its comforting food and delicious cakes and pastries, a local favorite for casual dining and dessert.
Sizzling Plate [$8-$15] – A classic and long-running Baguio restaurant (since 1978) famous for serving great, budget-friendly steaks and other sizzling plate dishes.
Chaya [$15-$30] – A Japanese restaurant housed in a cozy Baguio home, known for its authentic flavors, fresh sashimi, and quiet, relaxing atmosphere.
Le Chef at The Manor [$30-$60] – A fine dining restaurant located inside The Manor hotel in Camp John Hay, offering an elegant ambiance and a menu of international and fusion cuisine by acclaimed Chef Billy King.
Gypsy by Chef Waya [$25-$50] – A homey yet sophisticated restaurant offering an expansive menu of Asian and European cuisine, known for its inventive dishes and intimate, cozy interiors.
113 Wagner Cafe [$35-$60] – An exclusive, high-end dining spot that operates by reservation only, offering set menus of premium, artfully-plated international cuisine in a beautiful, rustic greenhouse setting.
The Barn [$30-$50] – A scenic cliffside restaurant in Benguet with floor-to-ceiling windows, specializing in prime USDA steaks, Italian, and Filipino fusion dishes in a luxurious barn setting.
Mama’s Table Private Dining [$50-$80] – An exclusive, reservation-only private dining experience in La Trinidad, Benguet, offering a personalized, multi-course degustation menu prepared by Chef Vicky Bud-long.
The Gallery by Witchcraft [$20-$40] – Located in a stylish, art-filled setting, offering a refined dining experience with a menu of continental and fusion dishes.
Nonno Guido’s Ristorante [$20-$40] – Located in La Trinidad, Benguet, offering authentic Italian cuisine with a beautiful view of the surrounding greenery.
The Other Office [$25-$45] – A relatively newer, well-regarded spot offering a modern menu, often praised for its high-quality ingredients and inventive execution of classic dishes.
Arca’s Yard (Ambuklao Road) [$10-$20] – Tucked away just outside Baguio proper, the peaceful location is its biggest draw, allowing for a relaxed meal away from the city bustle.
Baguio Craft Brewery [$10-$25] – More than just a brewery, it’s a great dining spot with a lively atmosphere, serving pub food like wings and burgers, best paired with their famous local craft beers.
Vizco’s Restaurant and Cake Shop [$5-$15] – While popular for its famous Strawberry Shortcake, it also serves a full menu of affordable Filipino and Continental dishes, a reliable local dining option.
PNKY Travel Cafe [$10-$20] – A travel-themed cafe that serves all-day breakfast, comfort food, and great coffee, with a cozy, eclectic interior perfect for planning your next trip.
Kape-an [$5-$10] – A quaint local coffee shop, popular for its native blend coffee and light Filipino snacks, often patronized by students and long-time residents.
Balbacua, Bellychon & Breakfast [$8-$15] – Known for its slow-cooked Balbacua (a rich, savory stew) and its Bellychon (lechon belly), this spot offers regional Filipino dishes in a casual setting.
House of Yogurt Lover [$8-$15] – A small cafe known for its homemade, fresh yogurt (plain or with toppings) and light, healthy meals, a favorite among health-conscious locals.
Cafe Sabel (BenCab Museum) [$12-$25] – Located inside the BenCab Museum in Tuba, Benguet, this cafe offers farm-to-table cuisine using fresh produce from the museum’s garden, with a stunning view of the mountain and duck pond.
The Good Shepherd Convent [Various local products/desserts] – While not a restaurant, their ube jam, strawberry jam, and peanut brittle are quintessential Benguet products and a must-buy “pasalubong” (souvenir food).
The Manor Garden Cafe [$15-$30] – Offers al-fresco dining in the beautiful garden of The Manor hotel, specializing in buffet breakfasts and a la carte meals with a calming, pine-scented ambiance.
Bokod Local Eateries (Loyung’s, Casa Calixto) [$5-$15] – Small, local restaurants in Bokod, Benguet (on the way to Mt. Pulag), offering authentic, home-cooked Cordilleran/Filipino meals often favored by climbers and rural residents.
La Trinidad Strawberry Farms Stalls [$5-$10] – Various small stalls outside the actual farms in La Trinidad, Benguet, selling local street food, fresh strawberry taho (silken tofu with strawberry syrup), and strawberry jams.
Valencia’s Restaurant [$8-$15] – A local favorite Chinese-Filipino restaurant known for its reliable, fast, and affordable meals, a staple for Baguio residents.
The Gallery Baguio [$15-$30] – A more intimate dining experience offering international fusion cuisine with a focus on artful presentation.
Igorot Stone Kingdom Cafe [$5-$12] – Located within the cultural park in Puguis, La Trinidad, offering snacks and refreshments with a view of the unique stone structures.
Baguio Night Market Food Stalls [$2-$5] – Located along Harrison Road, this is a chaotic but authentic local experience for very cheap street food, grilled snacks, and budget-friendly meals after 9 PM.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Rumours Bar and Restaurant: A well-loved spot on Session Road, Baguio’s main thoroughfare, known for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, popular with locals and visitors for great food and a range of drinks including tasty cocktails.
Hardin: True to its name (meaning ‘garden’), this garden-themed rooftop bar at The Camp in Cabinet Hill-Teacher’s Camp lets you enjoy the chilly Baguio air with a view while sipping on cocktails and other beverages.
Vesper Sports Bar: A cozy destination in Baguio, this bar is great for sports fans and friends looking to relax and enjoy a wide variety of drinks.
The Piano Bar: Located inside The Manor at Camp John Hay, this sophisticated bar offers a posh and relaxing ambiance with live music from singers and instrumentalists, perfect for unwinding with wine, cocktails, or coffee after dinner.
Fela Kaffe: A gender-inclusive nightlife spot that hosts drag performances and even offers promos like unlimited cocktails during ladies’ night events, located in the vibrant Baguio scene.
Smoke & Barrels: Situated along Marcos Highway (near Summer Pines), this spot offers a more relaxed pub vibe and is known for its food and drink selection, providing a great alternative to the city center clubs.
The Rabbit Hole Bar and KTV Lounge: Nestled in the heart of Baguio, this upscale lounge offers a whimsical Alice in Wonderland-inspired setting, providing a fun and unique place for drinks and private karaoke.
Boveda: A suggested option for a chill drinking night, likely offering a comfortable atmosphere for a more laid-back experience in the city.
The Other Office: Another local recommendation for a casual night out in Baguio, perfect for those looking for a relaxed setting.
Primo Point Bar: A bar recommended for a relaxed evening in Baguio City, catering to those who prefer a more chill environment over a loud club.
The Terminal Resto Cafe: While also a cafe, this spot is perfect for catching up with friends or a late-night work session, offering budget-friendly drinks in a cozy setting.
18BC: Found along Legarda Road, this music lounge is noted for its good alcohol selection and fair prices, with chill music, though it can be a bit loud for intimate conversations.
Kikans Bar: Located along Gov Pack Road, this spot is known for its reggae music, making it a unique place for a solo drink or a chill hangout.
Amarillo Bar: Situated in the Legarda area, this bar is for those who prefer their music loud and the energy high, offering a lively local night out.
Patch Cafe: Found inside the Bloomfield Hotel, this cafe-bar is recommended for a quiet and contemplative solo drinking experience.
The Ampersand: A very popular nightclub located within The Camp on Leonard Wood Road, known as a go-to clubbing spot for young adults. It features energetic DJs and is always full on weekends.
Basmnt: A luxurious bar and club with modern interiors, only open on Fridays and Saturdays at the RITZ Hotel on Legarda Road, offering an upscale weekend party experience.
Spade: A long-standing, well-known nightclub in Baguio, preferred by many for its better music and overall party vibe, especially on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays, catering to a young professional crowd.
Lockdown: An indoor-outdoor bar located at Cholo’s Gastropub on M.H. Del Pilar Street, it offers a great variety of food from different concessionaires along with drinks, creating a fun, multi-faceted hangout spot.
Curfew: A suggested nightlife venue in Baguio, often included in lists of places for a lively party experience.
Hotline: A noted club in the Baguio party scene, attracting partygoers looking for a high-energy night.
Alberto’s Bar: Located just a stone’s throw from the front of Burnham Park, this spot is where many locals hang out, offering live music that includes American country songs and Cordilleran music, creating a local cultural immersion.
Gallery Club: A trendy, high-energy nightclub located in the city center focusing on electronic, house, and techno music, known for its vibrant atmosphere and top DJs.
Baguio Craft Brewery: While primarily a brewery known for its unique craft beer (like the Benguet Pilsner), its rustic space, occasional live acoustic music, and great ambiance make it a prime nighttime hangout spot, especially for a relaxed, chilly-night vibe.
L.O.L. Comedy Bar & Grill: Located on Legarda Road, this is a unique drinking spot that offers gag shows every night, providing a fun, stress-relieving night of comedy and drinks.