Davao Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

-Hour Layover Highlights

Focus on Davao's iconic and accessible attractions for a short visit.

Morning: Philippine Eagle Center for a unique encounter.
Afternoon: City Center, San Pedro Cathedral, Museo Dabawenyo.
Evening: Roxas Night Market for local delicacies and affordable massage.
Late Evening: Jack's Ridge for panoramic city views.

Quick Visit Must-Dos

Philippine Eagle Center (2-3 hours).
San Pedro Cathedral & Museo Dabawenyo.
Roxas Night Market food trip.

Time-Based Itineraries

Continued schedules for varying stay durations.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A two-day trip mix of city sights and an island escape.

Day-by-Day Plan

Day 1: City Exploration (Eagle Center, Crocodile Park, People's Park).
Day 2: Samal Island Adventure (island hopping, Monfort Bat Sanctuary).
Day 3 (Optional): Eden Nature Park or shopping.
Book weekend experiences on GetYourGuide.

Consider an overnight stay on Samal for a relaxed pace.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A week in Davao for exploration at a relaxed pace.

Weekly Activities

Days 1-2: Davao City immersion, food trip, shopping.
Days 3-4: Samal Island overnight, snorkeling, diving.
Day 5: Mount Apo base camp or white water rafting.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

Combine the comprehensive itinerary with multi-day adventures or regional extensions.

Extended Exploration

Base on the one-week itinerary.
Dedicate 3-5 days for a full Mount Apo trek (experienced hikers).
Add multi-day trips to General Santos City & Sarangani.
Incorporate more leisure days at Samal Island.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For stays over two weeks, consider renting a serviced apartment or vacation rental for more space and facilities.

Longer Stays

Renting a serviced apartment.
More space and kitchen facilities.
Explore different neighborhoods.
Engage in community activities for immersive experience.

Tailoring Your Itinerary

Adjust these suggestions to match your interests and travel pace.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Davao itinerary to your specific passions.

Historical and Heritage Focus

Explore sites that tell Davao's rich history and cultural stories.

Historical Journey

San Pedro Cathedral, Davao City Hall.
Museo Dabawenyo, Davao Museum.
Davao Japanese Tunnel, Sta. Ana Shrine.
Poblacion District walk.

Free entry for Museo Dabawenyo and People's Park.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Taste Davao's fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and diverse culinary influences.

Culinary Adventure

Roxas Night Market (street food).
Bankerohan Public Market (fruits).
Apo ni Lola Durian Factory.
Luz Kinilaw (famous raw fish salad).

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Engage in thrilling activities, explore diverse natural landscapes, and encounter wildlife.

Adventure Seeker's Route

Mount Apo trek (multi-day, experienced hikers).
River rafting on Davao River (seasonal).
Snorkeling/diving/island hopping in Samal.
Ziplining/SkyCycle at Eden Nature Park.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Activities suitable for all ages, with educational components and relaxation opportunities.

Fun for All Ages

Philippine Eagle Center.
Davao Crocodile Park.
People's Park (dancing fountain).
Samal Island resorts with kid-friendly facilities.

Art, Architecture & Wellness

Art & Architecture

Appreciate Davao's blend of traditional and modern artistic forms and architectural styles.

Spiritual Journey

San Pedro Cathedral, Shrine of Holy Infant Jesus of Prague. Quiet resorts for relaxation.

Wellness Retreat

Spa treatments in city hotels or wellness centers for rejuvenation.

Personalized Journeys

Design your itinerary to match your one-of-a-kind interests for a trip you'll never forget trip.

Budget-Based Plans

Davao caters to all budgets. Choose an itinerary that aligns with your financial plan.

Backpacker's Guide PHP 1,500 - 2,500 / USD 25-45 per day

Budget travel with affordable accommodations, local food, and public transport.

Backpacker Essentials

Hostels or budget guesthouses (PHP 500-800/night).
Street food (Roxas Night Market) and carinderias.
Jeepneys (PHP 15-50/ride) and tricycles.
Free attractions (People's Park, San Pedro Cathedral).

Self-guided day trips to Samal Island using public ferries save money.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary PHP 3,000 - 6,000 / USD 50-110 per day

A balance of comfort and value with mid-tier options.

Mid-Range Comfort

Mid-range hotels (PHP 2,500-5,000/night).
Mix of local eateries and mid-tier restaurants.
Grab or taxis because they are convenient.
Paid attractions (Philippine Eagle Center), organized day tours.

Luxury Experience Plan PHP 7,000+ / USD 125+ per day

Indulge in premium accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive services.

Luxury Accommodations

Luxury hotels or resorts (PHP 6,000+/night).
Examples: DusitD2 Davao or Pearl Farm Seaside Resort.
Indulgent spa treatments.

Exclusive Experiences

Private car services with a driver.
Private boat charters for island excursions.
Gourmet dining and exclusive culinary tours.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Smart tips to maximize your budget without compromising on experience.

Smart Savings

Travel off-peak for better deals.
Book accommodations with complimentary breakfast.
Seek package deals on tours.
Group travel shares expenses for vans.

Airport Services

Maximize comfort and manage potential travel disruptions at the airport.

Enhance Your Airport Experience

Priority Pass for airport lounge access.
Compensair for flight delay/cancellation claims.
Airport Wi-Fi for staying connected.
Official airport taxi services.

Smart Spending

A well-planned budget frees you to enjoy Davao'its offerings.

Seasonal Specialties

Davao's festivals and weather patterns offer unique experiences throughout the year.

Summer/Winter Highlights

Experience Davao's typical weather for ideal activity planning.

Seasonal Activities

Dry Season (March-May): Ideal for beaches, island hopping, Mount Apo treks.
Wet Season (June-November): Lush landscapes, best for white water rafting.
Cooler (December-February): Comfortable for city exploration.
Generally sunny and calm weather for outdoor activities.

Always check local weather forecasts for your travel dates.

Festival or Event-Centered Visits

Davao's festivals offer deep cultural immersion and lively celebrations.

Festival Highlights

Kadayawan Festival (August): Street parades, cultural performances, food fairs.
Araw ng Dabaw (March): City's founding anniversary with local events.
Book accommodations and flights well in advance for festivals.
The city fills with visitors during these times.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Discover the charms of Davao during quieter periods with these practical tips.

Embrace the Rain

Prepare for rain with appropriate gear during wet season.
Focus on indoor activities: museums, malls.
Indulge in culinary experiences.

Benefits of Off-Season

Enjoy lower prices on flights and accommodations.
Fewer crowds at popular attractions.
Lush, landscapes after rainfall.

Pre-Trip Planning

A few steps before your journey can smooth your travel experience.

Essential Checks

Verify festival and event dates, as they can vary.
Check airplane departure and arrival times and potential delays.
Confirm accommodation bookings.
Pack according to the expected weather conditions.

Enjoying Local Produce

Davao is known for its bountiful harvest, especially fruits. Enjoy seasonal delights.

Fruit Seasons

Durian: Peak season is August to October.
Mangosteen: August to October.
Rambutan: July to October.
Pomelo: Year-round, but abundant during fruit season.

Weather Considerations

Typhoon Season

While Davao City is generally outside the typhoon belt, it can still experience heavy rains. Monitor local weather updates.

Heat & Humidity

The climate is tropical. Stay hydrated and wear light clothing, especially during dry season. Sun protection is a must.

Timing Your Adventure

Events by season and weather greatly shape your Davao experience. Plan accordingly.

Davao Itineraries