Travel Guide

DGwj...1m4o

12 Feb 2024

Skip to Content
KING TOLENTINO
Open Menu

A Short trip to Baguio City | DIY Travel Guide

Written By King Tolentino
Baguio City - known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines. Some call it the City of Pines. Baguio City is a go to destination of Filipinos because of the cool climate. This is one of the few places in Philippines, that you’ll need a jacket.
From Sta. Catalina, Ilocos Sur, we went to Baguio City for a spontaneous side trip. Our challenge was to explore Baguio City for a day and discover what the city has to offer.
It was summer that time - a peak season for Baguio’s tourism. On our way to Baguio, we tried to look for an accommodation online but all sites were fully booked. Still with our spirits up, we continued our journey to the City of Pines.
We arrived in Baguio City a little past dinner. First thing we did was to drive around and look for somewhere to stay. After few hours of hopping from one hotel to another, we’ve stumbled upon V Hotel and Apartel near Legarda Road. Pretty close to Burnham Park. Some of the units of V Hotel, do have a kitchen and dining area, Perfect for budget travelers.
The next morning, we walked a few blocks along Legarda Street and discovered Central Park Restaurant - A casual dining Chinese restaurant.
What I like about Central Park Restaurant - decent serving and affordable. Dim sums - a must-try.

We continued our road trip to La Trinidad for the Strawberry farm. It was a 20 minute drive from the City.
Aside from strawberries, this is the place where you can buy fruits and vegetables at a cheap price. We bought some pasalubong here because we don’t have time to go to the local market.

Then, we drove back to Baguio City to check Good Shepherd Covenant. Located near Mines View Park. This place sells Baguio delicacies and their specialty is Ube jam.
Our last stop was The Mansion – The official summer palace of the President of the Philippines. Not much you can do here.
I still remember my Baguio experience when I was a kid; the fog during the morning walk, distinct smell of Pine trees, Multi-colored sweater, Horseback riding, The Igorots, Bonfire by the cabin and the holiday vibe. These moments are still vivid in my mind.
Fast forward several years, it is a totally different Baguio. The laidback city, now highly urbanized - busy streets, crowded walkways, the views of lush green hills, replaced by roofs of houses. Yeah! Not a sight to see but this is part of the development of Baguio City.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BAGUIO CITY

You can visit Baguio City all year round because of its cool climate. For me, the best time to visit Baguio City is November and January. The reason for this are: to avoid the crowd of Panagbenga Festival in February, summer vacations from March to April, the rainy season from June to October and the family gatherings on December.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO BAGUIO CITY

Comfortable Clothes
Jacket or something for the cold weather
Sneakers / Sandals / Slippers
Tumbler

HOW TO GET TO BAGUIO CITY FROM VIGAN, ILOCOS SUR

The get to Baguio City from Vigan is to drive back to Manila via McArthur Highway. In San Fernando, La Union, turn left to Naguilian / Bauang – Baguio Road (The road before Bauang Town Plaza). Drive straight up until you reach Baguio City.

BAGUIO CITY BUDGET AND ITINERARY

The estimated budget for an overnight stay in Baguio City for 2 people is around Php5,000.00 per person. This is on the assumption that: the accommodation is Php2,000.00 per night or lesser, 6 meals with Php200.00 per person per meal budget and commute around Baguio City.
I will include a more detailed Budget and Itinerary on my next Baguio City visit. For now, here’s the rates for V Hotel and Apartel

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING BAGUIO CITY

Food
- Baguio City is a tourist destination. There are plenty of options where to eat.
- Try Burnham Park night market
- Try Café by the Ruins
- Try Central Park Restaurant
Travel Time
- 5 hours
Transportation
- You can easily get around Baguio City by Car, Taxi or Jeepney
Most accommodations accepts credit cards. But cash is still widely use.
There are plenty of ATMs in Baguio City.
Signal is not a problem here.

BAGUIO CITY TRAVEL TIPS

Side Trip
- On the way to Vigan, you can stop over La Union and surf.
- Looking for mountain adventure? Check out Sagada.
Expect heavy traffic in Baguio City during peak season.