25 Best Things to Do in Baguio for First-Time Visitors
Planning a trip to the Summer Capital of the Philippines? This guide highlights the best things to do in Baguio to help you plan your time exactly as you want.
I’ve been visiting Baguio for years, from family trips and weekend escapes from Manila to longer stays that let me experience the city beyond the usual tourist spots. And to this day, Baguio remains my favorite for its cool weather, mountain views, layered history, thriving art scene, and impressive food culture.
More recently, I visited Baguio in January 2026 to slow down, revisit old favorites, and refine this list based on what truly feels worth doing on a first visit.
This list focuses on experiences rather than exact locations or entrance fees. For a detailed breakdown of specific attractions, travel times, and fees, check out my separate travel guide to Baguio tourist spots.
📝 Planning your Baguio trip? Use my favorite resources.
✈️ Flights: Trip.com
🚌 Bus: 12go
🛌 Accommodation: Agoda
👣 Tours: Klook (very popular in Asia), GetYourGuide, and Viator
🗺️ Getting around: Google Maps
*These are all the sites I personally use to book my trips, and if you use them, some of them will earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps reduce the ever-increasing costs of keeping my site up and running. Thanks!
Best Things to Do in Baguio
Baguio offers more than just sightseeing. From scenic walks and cultural stops to exploring the local culinary scene, market visits, and short side trips, it’s a city you experience at a slower pace.
Here are, in my opinion, the best things to do in Baguio. Whether you’re in Baguio for a quick weekend or a slower stay, these activities cover sightseeing, culture, food, and easy escapes. Enjoy!
💯 Top things to do in Baguio for first-timers
If it’s your first time visiting Baguio and you’re short on time, start here. These are the experiences that give you a well-rounded feel of the city. From culture and food to nature and local life, these are the ones I’d recommend prioritizing on your first visit.
1. Immerse yourself in indigenous culture, art, and heritage at Tam-awan Village.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1.5–2 hours | 👤 Best for: Culture lovers, slow travelers, first-time visitors
While you can explore Tam-awan Village on your own, you can also get a tour guide from the Village. Ours was an Igorot from the Cordilleras (among the indigenous peoples of the Philippines), from whom we learned more about their traditions, culture, and heritage.
At Tam-awan Village, you can see and explore authentic huts from Kalinga and Sagada, preserved and maintained by artists from the Cordilleras. You can even rent one of the native huts for a more immersive cultural stay.
Tam-awan Village also has a quiet nature trail and a small gallery featuring works by local artists, both of which you can explore.
When you’re done, you can have a cup of native Benguet coffee at the Tam-awan Cafe while maybe getting your portrait sketches from their artists (if you’re lucky, like us!).
💡 PRO TIP: Pair Tam-awan Village with a visit to nearby attraction like Igorot Stone Kingdom along Asin Road for a half-day cultural route.
2. Explore Baguio’s culinary scene and try a few local favorites.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours per location | 👤 Best for: food trippers, first-time visitors
One of my favorite things to do in the city is to go on a Baguio food trip and explore its thriving culinary scene – especially at Baguio homegrown restaurants and cafes.
Whether it’s enjoying a vegetarian meal at Oh My Gulay!, having a cup of hot chocolate at Choco-late de Batirol, or enjoying a hearty meal at Baguio’s unique and homegrown Cafe by the Ruins, going on a foodie trip is one of the activities I recommend to first-time Baguio travelers.
3. Relax with forest bathing at Camp John Hay.
⏱️ How long to spend: 2-2.5 hours | 👤 Best for: nature lovers, slow travelers, families, first-time visitors
Camp John Hay is perfect for slowing down — whether you’re walking the forest trails, enjoying the cool pine air, or stopping for coffee away from the city noise. If you’re interested in history, you can also visit the Bell House.
4. Sample local street foods at Baguio Night Market.
If you like immersing yourself in local culture, you should include a visit to the Baguio Night Market on your list of things to do in Baguio. Here, you can bargain hunt, try street foods, and enjoy the vibrant energy of Baguio at night.
My friend Sarji and I went there one Christmas season, and we had a blast trying street foods and people-watching!
5. Bargain-hunt at Maharlika Livelihood Center, Abanao Square, and Baguio Public Market.
⏱️ How long to spend: 2-2.5 hours | 👤 Best for: souvenir shoppers, first-time visitors
One of the things I love doing in Baguio is bargain-hunting. I’d usually schedule an afternoon to spend at Maharlika Livelihood Center, Abanao Square, and Baguio Public Market, looking for trinkets, accessories, and pasalubong to bring back to my family and friends back home.
Here, you can buy native goods, clothing, wood carvings, Baguio delicacies, and the famous walis tambo (whisk broom).
🌳 Nature, Parks & Outdoor Adventures
After exploring urban attractions, it’s time to discover Baguio’s green spaces and scenic spots — perfect for breathing in mountain air, enjoying the views, and taking a break from the city’s busy streets.
6. Stroll through the lush Baguio Botanical Garden.
⏱️ How long to spend: 2-2.5 hours | 👤 Best for: nature lovers, families and friends, photography enthusiasts
Exploring the Baguio Botanical Garden on Leonard Wood Road is one of my favorite things to do in Baguio. Walking around surrounded by gorgeous flowers and lush pine trees, while enjoying the cool breeze, is something I enjoy and have shared the experience with a few of my friends over the years.
If you’re a nature lover, looking to take Instagram-worthy shots, or simply craving peace and tranquility, then going for a walk through the lush Baguio Botanical Garden should be on your first-visit itinerary.
💡 PRO TIP: Looking for the top Baguio City spots for your IG posts? Check out this Baguio Instagram Walking Tour with a licensed tour guide.
7. Take a boat ride at the century-old Burnham Park Lagoon.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours | 👤 Best for: families and friends, first-time travelers
Burnham Park may look simple at first, but boating on the lagoon is surprisingly fun, especially if you’re visiting with friends or first-timers. It’s an easy, low-effort activity that adds a bit of novelty to a classic Baguio stop.
8. Enjoy panoramic views at the Mines View Observation Deck.
I admit that this is a very touristy thing to do in Baguio. But, if it’s your first time visiting the Summer Capital, I still recommend dropping by the Mines View Park’s Observation Deck for an overlooking view of the abandoned copper and gold mines and the Benguet mountains.
💡 PRO TIP: Check out the stalls if you’re looking for unique finds! I’ve bought several earrings and bracelets from the local vendors that I still use!
9. Ride horses and explore Wright Park.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours | 👤 Best for: families with kids, friends, first-time travelers
If you’re traveling with kids, this is one of the fun things you can do in Baguio. I think I love Baguio so much because of the memories I have here with my family when I was younger.
So, if you want to create core memories with your kids, one way to do so is to try horseback riding at Wright Park.
🏛️ Historical & Heritage Experiences in Baguio
Beyond the scenery, Baguio has a layered history. These experiences offer a deeper look into the city’s past and traditions, making them especially meaningful for travelers who enjoy cultural context alongside sightseeing.
10. Light a candle and say a prayer at Baguio Cathedral.
If you’re Catholic, then visiting Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, more popularly known as Baguio Cathedral, is probably on your list. Here, you can attend a mass (sometimes in Ilokano, their native dialect), say a prayer, or light a candle at Baguio Cathedral.
You can also climb the 104-step staircase that ends at the Calvary.
11. Snap a photo of The Mansion.
Declared as a National Historic Landmark in 2009, The Mansion is the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines.
Many tourists flock to The Mansion to have a photo with it as a backdrop. It’s like if you don’t have a photo at The Mansion, then you’ve never been to Baguio.
💡 PRO TIP: If you are brave enough, you can also check out Diplomat Hotel.
12. Peek into cadet life at the Philippine Military Academy.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours | 👤 Best for: families and friends, first-time travelers
The Philippine Military Academy is the official training school for Filipinos aspiring to serve in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
I visited the PMA as a kid with my family and a couple of times more as an adult with my friends. Here, you can find different museums, see cadets perform drills, and get a glimpse of a PMA cadet’s life.
If you’re a first-time visitor, visiting PMA to have a peek into the cadets’ life should be on your list.
💡 PRO TIP: Make sure you bring sunblock! While the Baguio air is chilly, you will have to walk in the sun to get from one place to another and to enjoy its beautiful surroundings. So, better be prepared and apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn!
13. Watch Cordilleran weavers create hand-woven handicrafts at the Easter Weaving Room.
Established in 1909, Easter Weaving Room is one of the oldest weaving centers in Baguio.
Intending to promote and preserve the weaving heritage of the Cordilleras using looms, they now allow visitors to witness Bontoc women skillfully weaving colorful threads into textiles that will then be used to create clothes, bags, shoes, blankets, placemats, etc.
If you love indigenous products, as I do, then you should include a visit to the Easter Weaving Room in your list of things to do in Baguio.
🛍️ Markets, Shopping & Local Finds
Shopping in Baguio City is less about malls and more about discovery. From night markets and thrift shops to pasalubong favorites, these activities let you bring home a small piece of Baguio.
14. Go thrifting at Baguio’s many ukay-ukay stores.
Baguio’s quite famous for its ukay-ukay stores. At Session Road, you can go inside one of its hidden alleys and find thrift shops where you can get designer clothes and bags that cost almost nothing – if you know how to spot an original one!
15. Pick up ube jam and other local delicacies for pasalubong at the Good Shepherd Convent.
What’s your favorite pasalubong (a keepsake or gift from a trip) from Baguio? When I get the chance, I buy ube jam (purple yam) for my Dad, who loves it!
And the best place to buy your ube jam and other Baguio delicacies is from Good Shepherd.
💡 PRO TIP: While you can also get Ube Jams from the Baguio Public Market and other establishments in Baguio, I invite you to buy directly from Good Shepherd. When you do, you’re also helping them with their charitable endeavors to empower women and children.
🎡 Leisure, Nightlife & Entertainment
When the sun goes down — or when you’re simply in the mood for something light and fun — these activities offer a more relaxed side of Baguio.
16. Experience the vibrant nightlife at Session Road.
One of the things I love to do in Baguio is take a stroll on the vibrant Session Road at night. While it’s also a great experience to explore Session Road in the morning, nights on the city’s most famous street just hit differently.
There were days when we wouldn’t go out until evenings and head to Session Road to have dinner at one of its many restaurants and then have drinks at one of its bars.
💡 PRO TIP: Be careful with your belongings. While Baguio is generally safe, stay alert along busy streets like Session Road, especially at night.
17. Go on thrilling rides at Sky Ranch Baguio.
There’s something amazing about experiencing thrilling rides in Baguio. I had the privilege to ride the giant Ferris wheel during my January 2026 visit, and my friend and I had a lot of fun!
Aside from the Ferris wheel, you can also ride the Sky Cruiser, Flying Bus, and Red Barron, among others.
🖼️ Artsy & Offbeat Experiences in Baguio
Looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trail? These places highlight Baguio’s creative spirit and quieter corners, perfect for slow travelers and art lovers.
18. Enjoy a visual feast at BenCab Museum in Tuba.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours | 👤 Best for: art lovers
One of my favorite things to do in Baguio is to immerse myself in art at the BenCab Museum, owned by Philippine National Artist Benedicto Reyes Cabrera (BenCab).
After soaking yourself in the fascinating paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints found in the galleries and exhibition rooms at BenCab, you can also go on an eco-trail tour at BenCab Museum’s farm and garden.
19. Immerse yourself in art at Ili-Likha Artists’ Wateringhole.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours | 👤 Best for: families and friends, art lovers
Ili-likha Artists’ Wateringhole is an eco-art complex conceptualized by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik. Here, you can have a cup of coffee or enjoy a meal at one of their many shops while being surrounded by eccentric art in every nook and cranny – even its staircases!
20. Browse books and soak in the cozy atmosphere at Mt. Cloud Bookshop.
⏱️ How long to spend: 0.5-1 hour | 👤 Best for: book lovers, crafters, postcard hunters
If, like me, you love sending postcards, books, and visiting bookstores, then you should include Mt. Cloud Bookshop on your list of things to do in Baguio. Here, they also host creative wellbeing workshops, spoken-word events, and read-and-chat sessions with the authors of books featured in their bookstore.
💡 PRO TIP: Want to send out postcards but don’t have the time to go to the Baguio Post Office? You can send them through Mt. Cloud Bookshop! I tried this service on my last visit, and the recipients of my postcards have already received them!
21. Go on a cosmic journey at the Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours | 👤 Best for: travelers looking for something unique
This is one of the unique things that you can do in Baguio. I had never heard of Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary until Rio and her Tatay introduced me to this place.
Here, you can walk the trail of the 14 stations of the cosmic journey and be reminded how the universe came about and how we are all interconnected.
While there are many green spaces in Baguio where you can commune with nature and reflect, Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary is unlike any other place I have visited there.
It’s not as popular as the others on this list, but if you want to go on a spiritual journey, this is something worth considering including in your list of things to do in Baguio.
22. Visit the quirky Cemetery of Negativism at Camp John Hay.
The Lost Cemetery of Negativism is one of the most unique places I’ve visited in Baguio. While I admit that others may find this unexciting, the experience was quite different for me.
At the Lost Cemetery of Negativism, you’ll find tombstones that will inspire visitors to let go of negative habits and emotions. While many tombstones resonated with me, the tomb of Iam Off D Clock was probably my favorite.
Back then, I was experiencing burnout. So, seeing this tomb reminded me to set boundaries with my time and to stop checking and responding to work messages, even when I was supposed to be resting.
🛣️ Easy Side Trips & Short Excursions Near Baguio
If you have extra time or want to see more of Benguet, these easy side trips are worth considering. Located just outside the city, they’re ideal for half-day excursions and offer scenic views, seasonal experiences, and a change of pace from the city center.
23. Pick strawberries at the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours | 👤 Best for: families and friends, first-time travelers
Strawberry picking at the Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad is a popular thing to do when you visit Baguio, especially for first-time visitors.
About 30 minutes from the city center, you can drive up to La Trinidad and experience harvesting strawberries straight from the Strawberry Farm and buy them to take home, too!
You can pass by the Bell Church and the StoBoSa Bridge on your way back!
24. Take Instagram-worthy photos at Northern Blossom Flower Farm.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1.5–2 hours | 👤 Best for: photographers, flower lovers, first-time visitors visiting between January and April
Northern Blossom Flower Farm is one of the most popular side trips from Baguio, especially between January and April. Located outside the city, it’s known for its rolling hills covered in colorful flowers, making it a favorite stop for photographers and nature lovers.
Because it’s a bit of a drive from Baguio, it’s best to leave early in the morning to make the most of your visit and avoid the crowds. Many travelers combine this stop with other attractions in Benguet for a half-day trip.
I haven’t personally visited Northern Blossom yet, but it’s one of the most recommended seasonal side trips from Baguio.
25. Walk on glass at Mt. Camisong’s Glass Walkway.
⏱️ How long to spend: 1.5-2.5 hours | 👤 Best for: families and friends, nature lovers, scenic views seekers
Afraid of heights? Face your fears and walk on Mt. Camisong’s Glass Walkway. I tried this during my last Baguio trip and loved the experience. The view is amazing, too!
💡 PRO TIP: While you’re at it, explore the rest of Mt. Camisong. If you have extra time, go for a mini photoshoot as we did!
🗺️ Map: Things to do in Baguio for First-Timers
To help you plan your trip, here’s a map of things to do in Baguio for first-time visitors.
❤️ Things to Do in Baguio for Couples
Baguio’s all-year-round cuddle weather makes it a perfect destination, not just for those who want to escape the scorching heat in the lowlands but also for those who want to spend time with their significant other.
Here are some lovely things to do in Baguio for couples:
- Go on a date at the BenCab Museum.
- Take Instagrammable couple photos at Camp John Hay.
- Spend a slow afternoon together at the Baguio Botanical Garden.
- Take a quiet walk together at the Mirador Heritage and Eco-Spirituality Park.
- Spend a peaceful moment together at the Mirador Peace Memorial along Abad Santos Drive.
- Treat your partner to a fine dining experience at Hill Station in Upper Session Road.
- Take a romantic stroll along Session Road at night.
- Go boating or biking together at Burnham Park.
🗓️ 2-Day Sample Baguio Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Start with Tam-awan Village for a dose of culture, art, and heritage. Dine at The Farmer’s Daughter for an authentic Cordilleran meal.
- Afternoon: Head to Camp John Hay to relax with forest bathing. Make sure to stop by Choco-late de Batirol for a cup of traditional hot chocolate, a Baguio favorite.
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at one of Baguio’s homegrown restaurants, like Amare La Cucina, Cafe by the Ruins, or Hill Station.
- Evening: When you’re ready, head to the Baguio Night Market to sample local street foods or shop for souvenirs. Alternatively, you can also have local draft beers at Baguio Craft Brewery.
Day 2
- Morning: Go on a morning walk at Baguio Botanical Garden. And if you fancy, you can ride a horse at the nearby Wright Park or go on a boat ride at the century-old Burnham Park Lagoon.
- Lunch: Make sure to try dining at one of the local restaurants or eateries.
- Afternoon: Stop by the Baguio Cathedral to light a candle or say a prayer. Or, head to the Baguio Public Market to buy pasalubong for your loved ones. Still have time? End your day with fun rides at Sky Ranch.
🛌 Where to Stay in Baguio
📍 Budget Option: Peredo’s Lodging House was declared an Important Cultural Treasure by the National Museum. Here’s my review of my stay at Peredo’s Lodging House.
📍 Mid-Range Option: The Podium Boutique Hotel is a hotel I recommend if you like staying in artsy places with scenic views. My friend and I stayed there just this January 2026 and absolutely loved the experience.
Or, if you’re taking the Victory Liner Bus to Baguio, I recommend staying at Microtel by Wyndham Baguio. I’ve stayed here a few times in the past and have always been very satisfied with my appointed rooms. Here’s my experience staying at Microtel by Wyndham Baguio.
📍 Luxury Option: The Manor at Camp John Hay is a luxury hotel that offers an old-world charm and elegance.
FAQs: Things to do in Baguio
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about things to do in Baguio.
What is Baguio famous for?
Aside from its chilly weather and breathtaking landscapes, Baguio is also famous for its rich history and culture, its thriving art scene, and its status as a culinary destination.
Is Baguio worth a visit?
Yes, Baguio is worth a visit! If you’re looking to take a break from chaotic, scorching-hot Manila and love nature, art, culture, and culinary experiences, you should plan a visit to Baguio.
How many days do you need in Baguio?
A 2–3 day trip is ideal for first-time visitors. This allows time for sightseeing, food trips, and at least one relaxed side trip.
Is Baguio walkable for tourists?
Yes, especially if you stay near Session Road or the city center. Many attractions, cafés, and markets are close together.
Do you need a car in Baguio?
No. Taxis and jeepneys are easy to use within the city. A car is helpful only if you plan to visit multiple side trips outside Baguio.
What should I wear in Baguio?
Bring light layers. Days can be cool, while evenings and early mornings can get chilly, especially from December to February.
Is Baguio expensive to visit?
Not at all. Compared to other Philippine destinations, Baguio is relatively affordable for activities, food, and transportation.
💌 The Wrap-Up: Things to do in Baguio
There are tons of things to do in Baguio – whether it’s your first time or a returning visitor. Of all the places I’ve visited in the Philippines, Baguio is my favorite, so I hope this curated list of the best things to do in Baguio helps you plan your trip!
