What to do in Baguio City for 4 Days and 3 Nights + Commute Tips!

My mom wanted to go to Baguio for Christmas 2024, and I was convinced to go with her since I was home alone. I would also provide everything for her since she has been a good provider as a mother, hence, a Baguio trip wish was granted. I will share some of the attractions that we visited together with some commute tips, because we didn't bring car during this trip.

Looking for the perfect way to spend four days and three nights in Baguio? This guide will take you through the City of Pines, showcasing its natural beauty, rich culture, and soothing ambiance. Whether coming from Manila by bus or private car, this itinerary has everything you need for a memorable trip.

Disclaimer: This article is based on experience only. I am not a local in Baguio. Please do due research before going there.

Note: The majority of the commute we did in Baguio is coming from Burnham Park since most jeepney stations are near there. Fares are estimates and may change without prior notice, considering there is also senior citizen discount.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival & Check-In

Getting to Baguio

By Bus: Ride a Victory Liner or JoyBus deluxe bus from Cubao or Pasay to Baguio. These buses offer comfortable seating and amenities, with fares ranging from P600 to P1,200 for a 5-7 hour journey.

By Private Car: Drive through NLEX-SCTEX-TPLEX for about 4-5 hours. Expect toll fees of around P500.

Check-In: Ellianah’s Pines Hotel

Activities

SM Baguio

A popular shopping destination with scenic views, open-air spaces, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Perfect for leisure or catching the cool breeze.
How to get to SM Baguio: From Burnham Park, ride a jeepney bound for “Mines View” or “Pines View.” Tell the driver to drop you at SM Baguio. Fare: ~₱10.

Session Road

The heart of Baguio, known for its cafes, restaurants, and shops. A bustling street with a mix of modern and traditional Baguio vibes.
How to Get There: From Burnham Park, Session Road is a short walk uphill.

Baguio Night Market

A nightly bazaar on Harrison Road where you can shop for clothes, accessories, and local street food at affordable prices. Open from 9 PM onwards.
How to Get There: Located across Burnham Park, a short walk from the park.

Day 2: Downtown Baguio

Downtown Baguio is the city’s central hub, filled with bustling streets, iconic landmarks, shopping spots, and dining options. It’s where the city's rich culture meets modern convenience, making it an ideal starting point for any Baguio exploration.

How to Get Around

Most landmarks in downtown Baguio are walkable from Burnham Park. However, jeepneys are readily available for farther destinations, with fares starting at ~₱10.

Suggested Attractions:

Burnham Park

Enjoy biking, boating, or a leisurely walk around the park.

Baguio Museum

A cultural hub showcasing the history, art, and traditions of the Cordillera region. Perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with local heritage.
How to Get There: From Burnham Park, take a jeepney bound for Governor Pack Road and alight near the museum. Fare: ~₱10.

Baguio Cathedral (Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral)

An iconic Catholic church with a pink facade and breathtaking views of the city. A serene spot for prayer and reflection.
How to Get There: From Burnham Park, ride a jeepney going to “Mines View” or walk uphill through Session Road. Fare: ~₱10.

Botanical Garden

A tranquil garden filled with colorful flowers, cultural huts, and Igorot statues. A great place for family walks and photo ops.
How to Get There: From Burnham Park, take a jeepney bound for “Pacdal” and ask the driver to drop you at Botanical Garden. Fare: ~₱12.

The Mansion

A historic landmark and the official summer residence of the Philippine President. The beautifully manicured gardens are perfect for photos.
How to Get There: From Burnham Park, ride a jeepney going to “Mines View” and alight at The Mansion. Fare: ~₱12.

Mines View Park

Take photos with a panoramic view of the Benguet mountains. Visitors can enjoy photo opportunities, traditional Igorot costumes, souvenir shopping, and local delicacies like ube jam and strawberry preserves.
How to Get There:
Ride a jeepney bound for Mines View from the jeepney terminal near Burnham Park. Tell the driver to drop you at Mines View Park.
Fare: ~₱12; Travel time: 15–20 minutes.

Souvenir Shopping

Good Shepherd (Ube jam, strawberry preserves).

Famous for its high-quality local delicacies, including ube jam, strawberry jam, peanut brittle, and lengua de gato. The products are made by the nuns and help support their charitable missions. It’s also a peaceful spot with a view of the surrounding mountains.
Ride a jeepney bound for Mines View from the jeepney terminal near Burnham Park. Alight at the Good Shepherd Convent, located a short walk from Mines View Park.
Fare: ~₱12; Travel time: 15–20 minutes.