Planning a trip to Davao City and wondering what to do, where to go and where to stay?
Welcome to my home city. ❤️
I’m based in Davao City, and one of the things I love about living here is the variety. You can explore the city, head into the cooler highlands, discover local food and tropical fruits, or escape to an island — all within the same trip.
Davao is also a very spread-out city, so having a little plan before you arrive can make your visit much easier.
Whether you're coming for a weekend, a work trip or a longer holiday, here's my guide to some of the best things to do in Davao City.
Quick Guide to Davao City
Best for: Nature, food, beaches, culture and slower city breaks
Recommended stay: At least 3–4 days
Airport: Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO)
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
Nearby island escape: Samal Island
Known for: Durian, Philippine eagles, Mount Apo, tropical fruits and easy access to nature
12 Best Things to Do in Davao City
1. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center
One of the most important places to visit in Davao is the Philippine Eagle Center.
The Philippine eagle is critically endangered, and the centre plays an important role in conservation and breeding.
If you're interested in wildlife and nature, this is one experience worth making time for. Because it is outside central Davao, include it in a day exploring the Calinan side of the city.
2. Spend a Day at Eden Nature Park
If you want cooler air and plenty of greenery, head towards Eden Nature Park.
Located in Davao's highlands, it feels completely different from the warmer city centre. Walk around the gardens, enjoy the scenery, have lunch and try the available activities.
It is a lovely option for families, couples or anyone who wants a relaxing day surrounded by nature.
3. Discover Davao Cacao and the Malagos Chocolate Museum
Davao is well known for cacao production, so chocolate lovers should make room for this one.
Visit the Malagos area to learn about locally grown cacao and discover how Davao chocolate goes from bean to bar. Naturally, you should taste some while you're there.
Combine this with other attractions around Calinan to make better use of your travel time.
4. Watch the City Lights from Jack’s Ridge
For an easy late-afternoon or evening activity, head to Jack's Ridge.
It is one of Davao's well-known elevated spots with views over the city. Arrive before sunset to see the view during daylight and watch Davao light up as evening arrives.
Have dinner, enjoy the view and take your time.
5. Walk Around People’s Park
If you're exploring downtown Davao, People's Park is an easy stop.
It is a landscaped public park with greenery, sculptures and open spaces in the middle of the city. You do not need an entire day here; include it in your downtown itinerary.
6. Try Durian
You knew this was coming. You can't visit Davao without at least being offered durian.
Davao is famous for this distinctive fruit. Some people absolutely love it; others smell it once and decide they've had enough. Personally, I think trying it is part of the experience.
If durian isn't for you, Davao also has mangosteen, pomelo and marang.
Important: Always check your accommodation's rules before bringing durian inside.
7. Take a Day Trip to Samal Island
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Davao is having an island escape just across the water.
Samal Island is known for beaches and resorts and can be visited as a day trip from Davao City.
Spend the day swimming, relaxing by the beach, eating by the water or exploring more of the island. If your itinerary allows, dedicate a full day rather than squeezing it into a few hours.
8. Eat Your Way Around Davao
Try Filipino food, fresh seafood, local cafés and small restaurants. Don't only rely on lists you find online.
Ask people who live here, “Where do you actually eat?” Sometimes those recommendations lead to the best meals.
9. Visit a Local Market
Visit one of Davao's markets for local produce, tropical fruits and everyday city life. Markets are not always polished tourist attractions, and that is exactly why they show another side of a place.
10. Discover Davao’s Museums and Culture
If you have extra time, explore the city's museums and cultural attractions to understand more about Davao and the communities that shaped the region. It is also a good option when the weather does not suit outdoor plans.
11. Explore Davao’s Highlands
Don't spend your entire trip downtown. Davao covers a huge area, and some of its most beautiful surroundings are outside the centre.
Drive towards the highlands and you will notice the scenery and temperature changing. It is one reason to give Davao more than a quick overnight visit.
12. Slow Down
You do not need to fill every hour. Have coffee, try a fruit you have never eaten, talk to someone local, or spend an afternoon doing nothing by the beach.
Some of the best travel experiences are not necessarily the famous tourist attractions.
3-Day Davao City Itinerary
If it's your first time visiting, three days gives you a good introduction to Davao.
Day 1: Davao City
Visit People's Park, explore downtown, try local food and tropical fruits, and head to Jack's Ridge later in the day.
Day 2: Davao Highlands & Nature
Visit the Philippine Eagle Center, explore the Malagos area or spend time at Eden Nature Park. Grouping attractions in similar areas will save unnecessary travel time.
Day 3: Samal Island
Head across to Samal Island, choose a beach or resort, swim, eat and relax. Return to Davao in the afternoon or evening.
Staying Longer?
If you have 4–5 days in Davao, even better. You will have more time to explore without turning your holiday into a race.
Where to Stay in Davao City
I might be slightly biased about this part. 😊
Before becoming a host, I was an Airbnb guest. I love travelling, and Airbnb has often been part of those trips. I became fascinated by the idea that someone could create a comfortable space, welcome travellers and build a small business around it.
Eventually, I thought: Why don't I try hosting myself? That's how my own Airbnb journey started.
Today, I host several spaces in a quiet residential area in south Davao under Just Like Home.
Studio 1 – Private Studio with Bathtub
A comfortable private studio with a bathtub — particularly nice after a long day exploring Davao.
View Studio 1 with Bathtub on Airbnb
Studio 2 – Private Studio with Free Parking
A private option with free parking, convenient if you plan to drive around Davao and visit attractions outside the centre.
View Studio 2 with Free Parking on Airbnb
Big Private Room with Own Bathroom
A large private bedroom with its own bathroom and shared common areas — a good choice if you do not need an entire studio.
Davao City Travel Tips
Plan your itinerary by area
Davao is a large city. Group nearby attractions whenever possible.
Grab is useful
Grab and taxis are convenient for many city trips. For farther attractions, hiring a car or arranging transport can make the day easier.
Bring clothes for warm weather
Pack lightweight clothes, comfortable footwear, water and sun protection. Higher areas may feel cooler.
Keep some flexibility
Weather, traffic and travel times can change your plans, so do not schedule every activity back-to-back.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Davao City
Is Davao City worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy city life, nature, food and easy access to beaches and highlands.
How many days do you need in Davao City?
For a first visit, I recommend 3 to 4 days: one city day, one nature/highlands day and one Samal Island day.
What is Davao City famous for?
Durian, the Philippine eagle, Mount Apo, cacao and tropical produce, plus its proximity to Samal Island.
What are the best things to do in Davao City for first-time visitors?
Visit the Philippine Eagle Center, Eden Nature Park, Samal Island, People's Park and Jack's Ridge; try durian; explore Malagos; and discover local food and markets.
Is Samal Island a day trip from Davao City?
Yes. Many visitors use Davao City as their base for a Samal beach day. You can also stay overnight for a slower island experience.
Where should I stay in Davao City?
The best area depends on your plans. South Davao can be a quieter residential base, especially if you have a vehicle or use Grab. My three Airbnb options include two private studios and a big private room with its own bathroom.
Is Grab available in Davao City?
Yes. Grab is convenient around many parts of the city. For the highlands or outlying areas, a driver or private vehicle may be easier.
Does Davao City have beaches?
Davao City faces the Davao Gulf, but travellers looking for a traditional beach day often head to Samal Island.
What food should I try in Davao?
Try durian, pomelo, mangosteen and marang, alongside Filipino dishes, seafood, cacao products and locally made chocolate.
What is the best time to visit Davao City?
Davao can be visited year-round. August is especially interesting for the Kadayawan Festival; otherwise choose dates based on weather, fares and activities, and check current conditions.
Is Davao City good for solo travellers?
Solo travellers can plan a stay around their interests, transport and comfort level. Conditions and travel advisories can change, so check your government’s current Philippines travel advice before booking, use trusted transport, keep valuables secure and follow local guidance.
Is Davao City good for digital nomads or remote workers?
Davao offers cafés, malls, food delivery, ride-hailing and varied accommodation. Check the current Wi-Fi setup before booking.
Final Thoughts: Visiting Davao City
Davao isn't a destination where I think you should arrive with a huge checklist.
Come for the Philippine eagle. Try the durian. Escape to the highlands. Spend a day on Samal. Eat somewhere a local recommends. And give yourself time to experience ordinary Davao life too.
Travelling has made me appreciate my own home city differently. Maybe that is also why I enjoy hosting: I get to welcome travellers into mine.
If you're planning your first trip here, I hope this guide makes it a little easier.
Welcome to Davao. ❤️
Continue planning: Where to Stay in Davao City.
Before you travel, check current Philippines travel advice and confirm attraction opening hours directly.