Davao City - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Davao City

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Davao City, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Davao City and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Davao City, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Davao City for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Davao City

Davao City is the largest city on the Island of Mindanao in the Philippines, located in the southern part of the archipelago. It is a highly urbanized city and serves as the center of trade, commerce, and government for the Davao Region. Davao City is known for its beautiful natural attractions, such as Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, and the stunning beaches and islands of Samal Island. It is also famous for its delicious fruits, particularly the durian which many Filipinos love despite its strong smell. The city boasts of a peaceful and friendly environment, making it a popular tourist destination for both local and foreign travelers.

What to visit in Davao City

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Davao City, Philippines along with some information about each: 1. Mount Apo - The highest mountain peak in the Philippines with an elevation of 2,954 meters above sea level. It is a popular hiking destination for both locals and tourists.
2. People's Park - A public park that features a mix of cultural and recreational amenities such as the Durian Dome, a statue of the Philippine Eagle, and a playground area for kids.
3. Davao Crocodile Park - A conservation center that houses various species of crocodiles and reptiles such as pythons, iguanas, and monitor lizards. Visitors can also take part in feeding sessions and interact with some of the animals.
4. Island Garden City of Samal - A picturesque island located near Davao City with beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. It offers various water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and island hopping.
5. Eden Nature Park - A mountain resort that features various attractions such as sky rides, fishing, and horseback riding. It also has a vast flower garden, a butterfly garden, and a bird-watching area.
6. Philippine Eagle Center - A conservation facility that houses the endangered Philippine Eagle, the largest eagle in the world. Visitors can learn about the eagles' habitat, behavior, and efforts to protect them.
7. Malagos Garden Resort - A nature resort that offers various activities such as bird-watching, hiking, and flower picking. It also has a chocolate museum and a restaurant that serves chocolate-inspired dishes.
8. Jack's Ridge - A popular dining and entertainment spot that offers a panoramic view of Davao City. It has a vast selection of restaurants that serve local and international cuisine.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Davao City.

When to go on holiday to Davao City

The best time to visit Davao City is between December and May, which is the dry season. During this time, there is very little rainfall and the weather is generally sunny and warm. However, it is important to note that the period between March and May can be very hot and humid, so it is important to stay hydrated and wear lightweight clothing. If you prefer a cooler temperature, you may visit Davao City during the months of November through February, which is the peak tourist season. Just be aware that there may be occasional showers during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Davao City

There are several ways to get to Davao City, Philippines. The most common ways are: 1. By Airplane- Davao City has its own international airport named Francisco Bangoy International Airport. It has direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, and other cities in the Philippines as well as international flights from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
2. By Bus- There are several bus companies that provide trips to Davao City from different parts of Mindanao Island and other neighboring islands.
3. By Boat- Davao City has its own seaport named Port of Davao. There are several boats that provide trips to Davao City from different cities in the Philippines.
I recommend booking your transportation in advance to avoid any hassle during your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Davao City, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Davao City

Here are some typical foods of Davao City in the Philippines with a short description for each: 1. Durian – This is a famous fruit in the Philippines, known for its strong smell and unique taste. The creamy golden flesh of the durian is used to make desserts, candies, and other sweet treats.
2. Kinilaw – This is a raw seafood salad that is usually made with fresh fish, squid, or shrimp. The meat is soaked in vinegar, lime juice, and spices to give it flavor.
3. Paksiw na Tuna – This is a fish dish made with tuna cooked in vinegar, ginger, and garlic. It is usually served with steamed rice.
4. Mangosteen – The mangosteen is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. It has a sweet and tangy fruit pulp that is usually eaten fresh or used in desserts.
5. Balut – This is a fertilized duck egg that is boiled and eaten directly from the shell. It is usually served with a sprinkle of salt or vinegar.
6. Sinuglaw – This is a dish made with grilled pork belly and raw fish, usually tuna. The meat and fish are marinated in vinegar, onions, and peppers to give them a spicy flavor.
7. Grilled Liempo – This is a Filipino-style grilled pork belly that is usually served with rice and dipping sauce. It’s a popular street food in Davao City.
8. Halo-Halo – This is a traditional Filipino dessert made with shaved ice and sweetened condensed milk, and topped with a variety of ingredients such as sweet beans, fruits, and gelatin.
9. Kakanin – This refers to a variety of Filipino rice cakes made from glutinous rice. They come in different colors and flavors and are usually topped with coconut cream or grated coconut.
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Davao City an expensive destination for tourists?

Davao City is considered to be an affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to other popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. However, the cost of your trip will depend on a variety of factors, such as your travel style, accommodations, activities, and dining choices. Accommodations in Davao City can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, so there are options available for all budgets. Similarly, your dining choices can also vary from street food and local eateries to high-end restaurants. Overall, if you plan your trip wisely and do your research in advance, you should be able to manage your expenses and enjoy your trip to Davao City without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Davao City

There are several areas in Davao City where you can find accommodation: 1. Downtown Area - This is the heart of Davao City, where you can find various hotels, inns, and other types of accommodations. This area is ideal for those who want to be close to the city's main attractions like People's Park, Davao Museum, and the San Pedro Cathedral.
2. Matina - One of the most popular residential areas of Davao City where you can find a range of mid-range to high-end accommodation options, including boutique hotels, serviced apartments, and budget-friendly inns. Matina is also home to the SM City Davao Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the city.
3. Buhangin - A quieter residential area located near the city's international airport, Buhangin is ideal for budget travelers who want to be close to transportation hubs. Here you'll find affordable lodgings like budget hotels, backpacker hostels, and guesthouses.
4. Ecoland - A newly developed area in Davao City with several affordable hotels, motels, and inns. Ecoland is located in the southern suburbs of the city and is a popular destination for both business and leisure travelers.
5. Joaquin Village - Located near the city center, near the intersection of McArthur Highway and Ponciano Street, Joaquin Village is a residential area where you can find smaller hotels, motels, and guesthouses. It's a convenient option for travelers who want to be close to the city center without breaking the bank.
You can check hotel prices at Davao City here:
Booking.com

Is Davao City a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Davao City is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The city government has implemented strict laws and regulations to maintain peace and order, which has significantly reduced the crime rate. The police force is also highly visible and proactive in ensuring the safety of both locals and visitors. However, like any other city, it is always best to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings at all times, particularly in crowded areas and at night.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Davao City.

What type of travelers will enjoy Davao City the most?

Davao City is a wonderful destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions for different types of travelers. Couples can enjoy relaxing on the beautiful beaches, exploring the parks, and indulging in romantic dinners at local restaurants. Young people looking for fun will love the vibrant nightlife scene, exciting water sports activities, hiking, and shopping areas. For families, Davao City offers plenty of family-friendly attractions like the Davao Crocodile Park, Philippine Eagle Center, and Eden Nature Park. Overall, Davao City is suitable for all types of travelers, as it provides a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experience that everyone can enjoy.

How to get around Davao City

In Davao City, you can use a variety of transportation options to get around the city, including taxis, jeepneys, buses, tricycles (motorcycles with a sidecar), and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis). Taxis are commonly metered, while other modes of transportation may have a fixed fare. It is important to negotiate the fare before using tricycles or habal-habal. Bicycle rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore the city on their own.

What to see around Davao City

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Davao City: 1. Samal Island - known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and fun water activities such as snorkeling and island hopping 2. Eden Nature Park & Resort - a mountain resort that offers various activities such as zip lining, horseback riding, and nature trails 3. Malagos Garden Resort - a nature retreat that features bird and butterfly sanctuaries, flower gardens, and delicious food made from their own produce 4. Tamayong Prayer Mountain - a scenic mountain that is perfect for quiet reflection, hiking, and enjoying the panoramic view of Davao City 5. Mount Apo - the highest mountain in the Philippines, loved by hiking enthusiasts for its scenic trails and breathtaking views.
I hope this helps!
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