Locals Know Best: Baguio Edition

Known for its alpine breeze, verdant greens, and refreshing scenery, the country's Summer Capital remains to be a popular destination throughout the year.

While each of us has our go-tos to keep coming back to, our local insiders have a few tips to share. Scroll below!

"Tourists should take the jeep since it's cheaper and faster to get around. There are lots of them circulating every hour." - Gabbi Pearson, High School Student

"Vegetable lovers should head down to the market at the bottom of Session Road to get all their greens at the best prices! They are probably at half the price or less than what they cost in Manila." - Kimmy Pearson, Writer

"Be bold and try out local restaurants you won’t find in Manila—there are loads of hidden gems in Baguio that serve really great food! Don’t forget to grab breakfast at Everything Nice in Camp John Hay." - Julia Pantaleon

"Respect the city and leave no trace! Baguio locals take pride in its green and breezy environment. Leaving trash behind or not picking up after yourself is a big turn off for the community." - Sonya Sison, Founder of Seeker Travels

" Skip the fast food. It's cheap and easy to find wholesome meals in Baguio" - Kim Meadows

"One of the best parts about Baguio is the variety of restaurants that are authentic, affordable, and healthy! For good Japanese food, head down to Chaya along Legarda Road. Chef’s Home on Outlook Drive has the most authentic Southeast Asian cuisine in town. And quite far from the city is a quaint café called Arca’s Yard that’s known for the best Kamote Pie in the city—it’s definitely worth the trip!" - Bea Agbayani, College Student

"Apart from really great local restaurants, thrift shopping is definitely an experience to consider. The best ukay-ukay spots include Skyworld, Bayanihan Road, and the Harrison Night Market—all with cheap but quality thrift shop finds!" - Tisha Agbayani, College Student

"During the holidays, Baguio can get a little more traffic than usual. Luckily, there are businesses outside the city center that people can go to to still enjoy the weather and all that Baguio is known for. Some include Manpiyaan Café, Café Adrianna, and Arca's Yard." - Karla Santos, Business Owner

"Apart from being know as the Summer Capital, Baguio is a food haven and a home to some of the most majestic views. When visiting, make sure to go for hot chocolate and native cakes at Café Batirol inside Camp John Hay. For freshly baked goodies, never forget to make a stop at Baguio Country Club. A side trip to Casa Vallejo’s Hill Station for their melt-in-your-mouth roast beef with cottage pie is worth the detour. As a fan of Asian cuisine, I also make it a point to visit Rose Bowl for my favorite Pata Tim and Chinese Sausages. Korean Palace is my go-to for a good, authentic Korean buffet.

With their rustic, Instagram-worthy ambiance, The Secret Garden near St. Patrick’s Village is one to pass by for. I also make it a point to get my fill of local goodies like fresh strawberries and strawberry taho from the strawberry farm in La Trinidad and ube jam, adobo peanuts, and kasuy from Good Shepherd.

After all the eating, a trip to the Easter Weaving Room for hand-made, woven placemats and bags or Teresitas for some antiques is a great choice! Apart from the usual pasalubong stops, the Baguio Orchidarium also has cheap succulents, orchids, and ornamental plants that would make a great addition to one’s home!" - Marissa Arceo, Sales Manager

Still itching for more adventure? Get some inspiration from our Travel Guide for a list of things to See, Eat, and Do in Baguio! Don't forget to check out our exclusive partner resorts in Baguio for stays at the best rate guaranteed.

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