Davao

22 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.

7 places on the map

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Flag down a metered taxi: Davao's taxis have a reputation for running the meter honestly, so they are a reliable way around downtown, Lanang and Matina without haggling.
Learn the jeepney signboards: Jeepneys show their route on the side, such as Bajada or Matina; pass your fare forward to the driver and say para when you want to stop.
Cross to Samal by ferry: Frequent ferries and barges leave from the Sasa and Santa Ana wharf areas to Island Garden City of Samal, a short ride for beaches and diving.

Respect the city's strict ordinances: Davao enforces a public smoking ban, a firecracker ban and speed limits seriously; fines are real, so smoke only in designated areas.
Check advisories before leaving the city: Davao itself is considered one of the safer Philippine cities, but some parts of Mindanao carry warnings, so read your government's advice first.
Keep valuables close in busy spots: Bankerohan Market, Roxas Night Market and jeepney rides are crowded, so use a front pocket or zipped bag and keep your phone out of sight.

Buy fruit at Magsaysay fruit stands: The stalls near Magsaysay Park sell durian, pomelo, marang and mangosteen by the kilo for far less than malls or hotel shops.
Eat at carinderias and sinuglaw spots: Neighbourhood eateries serve rice meals like adobo, sinigang and sinuglaw, Davao's grilled pork and fish ceviche combo, for a fraction of restaurant prices.
Shop at Bankerohan Public Market: The city's big wet market is the cheapest place for fresh seafood, vegetables and dried fish; go early in the morning when produce is freshest.

Pack for warm, humid days all year: Davao sits south of the main typhoon belt, so it rarely gets hit, but it stays hot and sticky; breathable cotton and sunscreen are essential.
Keep a compact umbrella handy: Rain is spread through the year rather than one clear wet season, and short afternoon downpours are common, so a small umbrella beats a heavy coat.
Bring warm layers for Mount Apo: The Philippines' highest peak rises just outside the city and nights near the summit get cold, so trekkers need a fleece, rain shell and good boots.

Join the Kadayawan festival: Every August the city celebrates the harvest and its indigenous Lumad and Moro cultures with street dancing, floral floats and fruit stalls everywhere.
Taste durian the local way: Davao is the Philippines' durian capital; try it fresh at a fruit stand, but note many hotels ban it in rooms because of its strong smell.
Show respect with po and opo: Adding po to your sentences and opo for yes is a polite sign of respect to elders, and locals appreciate visitors who try a few Bisaya words like salamat.

Shop for crafts at Aldevinco: The Aldevinco Shopping Center has small stalls selling Mindanao textiles, malong wraps, brassware and pearls; browse several shops and bargain gently.
Head up to the hills for cooler air: Highland spots like Eden Nature Park and the Malagos area are noticeably cooler than downtown and make an easy half-day escape from the heat.
Try Davao-made chocolate: Local cacao farms produce award-winning bean-to-bar chocolate such as Malagos; buy bars at the airport or pasalubong shops as an easy souvenir.

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

Day 1 of 1

🕘 9:30–17:00📍 6 stops