Hotels in Baguio

Baguio Introduction

Thanks to its rejuvenating pine forests and cool climes, Baguio City has long been a favorite summer destination of Filipinos looking to escape Manila’s concrete jungle. What was once an idyllic vacation spot has become a highly urbanized area characterized by shopping malls, traffic jams, and huge crowds. The city is especially congested during the Panagbenga Festival, a month-long flower festival held every February, and it’s worth the trip to see the parade of blossoming floats that might remind one of the Rose Parade in Los Angeles.

Hotels in Baguio

Because it’s a well-known vacation spot, there’s plenty of tourist lodging in Baguio City. While many of the hotels here cater to families, there are also several low-cost options for backpackers and solo travelers. The cheapest accommodations are B&Bs and inns that offer stripped-down rooms with no other facilities, although some provide free Wi-Fi. Baguio’s mid-range hotels usually have restaurants, while the upmarket options add fitness centers. Some also feature spa services, an indoor pool, or a golf course. For families and groups that are looking for spacious accommodations minus the steep prices, there’s a handful of casual hotels offering suites with living areas and/or kitchenettes.

Where to stay

There are a few hotels within Camp John Hay, a military reservation built in 1903 for US Armed Forces personnel. Today, it’s a tourist attraction with a museum, a golf course, and a handful of restaurants and shops. A secluded, pine-clad retreat that sits high above the city center, Camp John Hay makes for a serene escape, but it’s rather tricky to get around Baguio City if you don’t have a car. On the other hand, you can opt for one of the hotels surrounding Burnham Park, such as those on Kisad Road and Legarda Road: you’ll be close to the jeepney terminal, the market, and affordable eateries and shops.

Things to see

Biking and boat rides at Burnham Park are part of the quintessential Baguio City experience, particularly for first-time visitors. Situated in the heart of the city, Burnham Park has several recreational facilities, including an orchidarium, a picnic grove, and a man-made lake where you can hop on kitschy swan-shaped paddle boats. For valley views, you can head to Mines View Park on the northeastern outskirts of town. But if there’s one attraction to get out of the city for, it’s the BenCab Museum, around 7 kilometers from Burnham Park. This museum showcases the works of national artist Benedicto Reyes Cabrera, more popularly known as BenCab, as well as other local artists, and you can stroll in the serene gardens behind the museum. Other Baguio City attractions you shouldn't miss are The Mansion, which is the official summer residence of the Philippine president, and Camp John Hay.

How to get to Baguio

Baguio City is around four to five hours’ drive from Metro Manila via the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). You can save even more time if you leave Manila in the wee hours of the morning. If you don’t want to take the wheel, you can just hop on a provincial bus from Manila. Provincial bus terminals are usually located along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), either in Pasay City or in Cubao, Quezon City. Once you’re in Baguio City, you can get around by jeepney, taxi, or tricycle if you don’t have a car.