Discovering the Charm of Baguio City: A Guide to the Philippines' Summer Capital

Nestled high in the Cordillera Mountains, Baguio City is a beloved destination in the Philippines known for its cool climate, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Dubbed as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines," this charming city has long been a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Burnham Park

How To Get To Baguio

Baguio City is located in the northern part of the Philippines and is approximately 246 kilometers away from Manila, the country's capital. Here are the common ways to get to Baguio City:

By Bus: The most common way to get to Baguio City is by bus. Several bus companies operate daily trips from Manila to Baguio City, and vice versa. The travel time is around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic conditions. An example of bus company  that offer trips to Baguio City is Victory Liner.

By Car: You can also reach Baguio City by car. From Manila, take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and exit at the SCTEX (Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway) towards Tarlac City. From there, take the MacArthur Highway and follow the road signs to Baguio City. The travel time is around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

By Plane: The nearest airport to Baguio City is the Loakan Airport, but it only caters to small aircraft. The most practical option is to fly to Clark International Airport, located in Pampanga, and take a bus or private vehicle to Baguio City. The travel time is around 3-4 hours.

By Private Vehicle: You can also drive your own car to Baguio City. The roads are well-paved, but it's advisable to bring a GPS or navigation app ( Waze and Google Map) as some areas can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors.

If you're planning to visit Baguio City soon, here's a guide to help you discover its unique charm:

Enjoy the Scenic Views

Mines View Park

Baguio City is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there's no shortage of scenic spots to explore. Head to Mines View Park for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, or visit the Tam-Awan Village to see traditional Ifugao houses and learn about the local culture.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Strawberry Taho

Baguio City is a food lover's paradise, with a wide array of local and international cuisine to sample. Don't miss the chance to try traditional dishes such as pinikpikan, a chicken dish cooked in a special way, and the famous strawberry taho.

If you're looking for great places to eat in Baguio City, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of my favorites

Oh My Gulay - If you're looking for a vegetarian-friendly option, Oh My Gulay is a must-visit. The restaurant features unique dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Amare La Cucina- It is an Italian restaurant located in the city of Baguio in the Philippines. The restaurant offers a variety of Italian dishes including pizza, pasta, salads, and desserts. The restaurant is known for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, as well as its delicious and authentic Italian cuisine. Some of their popular dishes include Margherita pizza, Spaghetti Carbonara, and Tiramisu.

Good Taste Cafe and Restaurant - This local favorite is known for its affordable and delicious Chinese cuisine. The restaurant is always bustling with locals and tourists alike.

Cafe by the Ruins - This cafe is a Baguio City institution, known for its rustic charm and delicious food. The menu includes a variety of local and international dishes, including their famous strawberry shortcake.

Hill Station Restaurant - Located in a historic building, Hill Station Restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and an eclectic menu featuring both local and international cuisine.

James Right Cafe- The cafe is known for its cozy and rustic ambiance, as well as its wide variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. The cafe is named after James H. Wright, an American governor of the Philippine Islands from 1904 to 1906. It offers a range of coffee blends, including espresso, cappuccino, latte, and brewed coffee, as well as iced coffee drinks. They also serve a selection of teas and hot chocolate.

Ili-Likha Artist Village- It's a restaurant that serves up a range of traditional and modern Filipino cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a rustic, cozy ambiance and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Entrée by Vizco -It is known for its delicious and diverse menu offerings. The restaurant is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service. One of the most popular dishes at Entrée by Vizco is their Strawberry Shortcake, which is made with fresh strawberries from the nearby Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad, Benguet. Other popular menu items include their breakfast platters, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and salads.

Explore the City's Art Scene

Baguio Musuem

Baguio City has a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing local artists and their works. Visit the BenCab Museum to see the impressive collection of National Artist Benedicto Cabrera, or check out the Baguio Museum to learn more about the city's rich history and culture.

Experience the Nightlife

Night Market

Despite its laid-back atmosphere, Baguio City also offers a vibrant nightlife scene. Head to Session Road to find numerous bars and clubs, or visit the Night Market to sample local street food and enjoy live performances.

Where to stay in Baguio

Microtel by Wyndham Baguio is a cozy and convenient hotel located in the cool mountain city of Baguio, Philippines. With its prime location, comfortable rooms, and quality service, it is a great choice for travelers looking for a relaxing stay in the city.

One of the best features of Microtel by Wyndham Baguio is its location. It is situated near some of the city's most popular attractions, such as Burnham Park, Session Road, and Baguio Cathedral. Guests can easily explore these sites and other places of interest in the city, including the famous night market, without having to travel far.

Shop for Souvenirs

Finally, no trip to Baguio City would be complete without shopping for souvenirs to bring back home. Visit the Baguio City Market for a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, and food products, or check out the Good Shepherd Convent for delicious pasalubong treats such as ube jam and strawberry jelly. SM City Baguio is also a great place to buy souvenirs, clothes and food. 

Top Tourist Destinations

1. Camp John Hay

2. Burnham Park

3. Session Road

4. Mines View Park

5. Botanical Garden

6. Mirador Heritage Park

7. Baguio Museum

8. Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto

9. Ben Cab

10. The Mansion

Baguio City is one of my favorite summer destinations in the Philippines. It is truly unique destination that offers something for everyone. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich culture and cuisine, this city is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the Philippines. So why not plan a trip to Baguio City today and discover its charm for yourself?