Davao
Save22 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See a ready-made day plan ↓10 places on the map
Top 10
- 1
Conservation centre for the critically endangered Philippine eagle
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Allow two hours
- Wear comfortable shoes
📷 Photos
- 2
Highest peak in the Philippines and a national park
3 tips
- Hire a guide
- Permits are required
- Prepare for cold weather
📷 Photos
- 3
Highland resort with pine forests, gardens and viewpoints
- Tip: Weekdays
2 tips
- Bring a jacket
- Check ride prices
📷 Photos
- 4
Island Garden City with beaches, caves and resorts
3 tips
- Take the ferry from the city
- Rent a tricycle
- Bring cash
📷 Photos
- 5
Downtown park with sculptures and fountains
- Tip: At night
3 tips
- Visit in the evening
- Free to enter
- Watch for crowds on weekends
📷 Photos
- 6
Zoo with crocodiles, animal shows and a bird area
3 tips
- Check show times
- Bring small cash
- Avoid midday heat
📷 Photos
- 7
Historic city cathedral dedicated to Saint Peter
- Tip: Dress code
2 tips
- Visit between Masses
- Free entry
📷 Photos
- 8
Hillside restaurants with night views over the city and gulf
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Go at sunset
- Book dinner on weekends
- Taxis are easiest
📷 Photos
- 9
Garden resort with a bird sanctuary and chocolate museum
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Try the chocolate tour
- Bring insect repellent
📷 Photos
- 10
Colorful Chinese Buddhist temple in the city
- Tip: Go early
- Tip: Dress code
1 tip
- Be quiet inside
📷 Photos
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Before you go: Davao tips
Transportation
- Take jeepneys: Jeepneys are cheap and cover most routes; ask locals which route goes where you need.
- Use metered taxis: Davao taxis are known for using meters honestly; still confirm before riding.
- Use Grab: The Grab app works in Davao for convenient rides.
Security
- Follow strict local rules: Davao enforces bans on public smoking, firecrackers and speeding; respect them.
- Stay aware: Davao is known as relatively safe, but watch belongings in crowded areas.
- Check travel advisories: Some areas of Mindanao have advisories; check before travelling outside the city.
Saving
- Eat at local eateries: Carinderias serve cheap Filipino dishes like adobo and sinigang.
- Buy fruit at markets: Davao is famous for durian, pomelo and mangosteen; markets have the best prices.
- Take the ferry to Samal: Ferries from Davao to Samal Island are cheap and quick.
Weather/Clothing
- Expect warm weather year-round: Davao is tropical; wear light clothes and sunscreen.
- Carry an umbrella: Rain showers can occur any time of year.
- Pack swimwear: Beaches on Samal Island are a short trip away.
Cultural
- Try durian: The city is famous for durian; try it fresh or in sweets.
- Celebrate Kadayawan: The August festival celebrates harvest and the indigenous cultures of the region.
- Be polite: Use po and opo as a sign of respect when speaking with elders.
Local Hacks
- Visit the Philippine Eagle Center: See the endangered national bird at this conservation centre near the city.
- Go to People's Park: This central park is a calm green space with sculptures.
- Eat at Roxas Night Market: This lively night market offers street food and snacks.
1-day itineraries in Davao
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.