Davao City, the hometown of President Rodrigo Duterte, is the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area.
It is the most densely populated city in Mindanao and is also the economic center of the Davao Region.
Davao City is becoming more like Manila with its emerging culinary, cultural and commercial establishments.
The difference with Manila, though, is that the majestic Mt. Apo, and its many mountain, island and beach resorts, are just around the corner.
This is why Davao City, although highly urbanized, is still a famous destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Davao City is also famous for the abundance of Durian, a fruit that smells like hell but tastes like heaven. As a matter of fact, Davao City is the Durian Capital of the Philippines.
The nearby forests of Mt. Apo are also home to the critically endangered national bird of the Philippines, the magnificent Philippine Eagle.
So what’s holding you back? Come and witness the harmonious existence of urban life and the paradise of nature in Davao City.
Wondering where you can book for your stay in Davao City? Check out our Top 10 places to stay when in Davao City.
10 The Ritz Hotel At Garden Oasis
The Ritz Hotel At Garden Oasis is a hotel that was built piece by piece. Originally, the place was a mini-golf course and restaurant and then sometime later, the owners added a pool which made it one of the first inland resorts in Davao City. Many years later, the Ritz Hotel was then added and thus the place became The Ritz Hotel At Garden Oasis. The place may have a lot of history but with its modern facilities, it can definitely go toe-to-toe with other hotels or resorts. So when you’re in Davao, it is imperative for you to come and check out The Ritz Hotel At Garden Oasis.
9 The Royal Mandaya Hotel
Conveniently located at the pulse of Davao City, the Royal Mandaya Hotel is literally just a stone’s throw away from the key destinations of Davao City. The place is just so majestically designed that after stepping inside the hotel, guests will surely be reminded of the palaces described in fairy tales. Not only is the place screaming with grandeur, its staff also boasts of the warmest hospitality. If you’re looking to feel and be treated like royalty, then you should definitely book your stay in the Royal Mandaya Hotel.
8 Red Planet Davao
Red Planet Davao is just like all of the other Red Planet Hotels and there’s nothing wrong about it. Just like all of Red Planet Hotels, the one in Davao City is conveniently located, affordably priced, very well-maintained, and spotlessly clean. Why mess with a formula that’s proven and tested? The Red Planet Davao is for you if you’re looking for a place to spend the night in Davao City without burning a hole in your pocket.
7 Eden Nature Park & Resort
Situated at the foot of Mt. Talomo, Eden Nature Park & Resort is a nature park that provides a great view of the city proper. The mountain resort offers lots of attractions, activities and adventures that trying them all out in a day is close to impossible. With the resort’s tagline, “a respite, an adventure, a spiritual retreat, a cultural excursion and a sensuous feast”, you are assured that whatever your preferences may be, there will always be something for you to enjoy in Eden Nature Park & Resort.
6 Ponce Suites Gallery Hotel
More than just a hotel, Ponce Suites Gallery Hotel is an artistic temple. The place is a boutique hotel and an art gallery dedicated solely to the works of the owner’s son and famous Philippine artist ‘Kublai’ rolled into one. With the entire hotel filled with artworks, the place is full of character and is just so full of life. So if you’re tired of the usual hotel where you just snooze away at night, and want a unique and unforgettable experience, go and check out Ponce Suites Gallery Hotel.
5 Waterfront Insular Hotel
Dubbed as the beachfront gateway to the rich cultural heritage of Davao City, Waterfront Insular Hotel is one of the city’s most iconic tourist destinations. With the tranquil beach and the meticulously manicured gardens surrounding the hotel, it’s no surprise that it attracts a lot of tourists ready to capture the scenic views. The rooms feature an ethnic and native look that lets guests feel one with nature. If you’re visiting Davao City for a dose of Vitamin Sea, then Waterfront Insular Hotel is the place to be.
4 Park Inn by Radisson Davao
The Park Inn by Radisson Davao is a hotel located in the heart of the city. It is connected to both the SM Lanang Premier Mall and the SMX Convention Center and is merely a 15-minute drive from the airport and the city center. The hotel’s interior features a colorful and vibrant color scheme that adds a festive vibe to the place. Guests will surely feel refreshed and lighthearted after staying at their uniquely designed rooms. Park Inn by Radisson Davao is perfect for you if you’re looking for a quick pick-me-upper while in Davao City.
3 Seda Abreeza Davao
Sleek and stylish, Seda Abreeza Davao is one of the premier hotels in Davao City. The hotel’s interiors are clean and elegant, showcasing commissioned pieces from esteemed Philippine artists. The hotel is also conveniently located near the access point to various tourist attractions of the city, in addition to just being steps away from Abreeza Mall. So if you want a classy place to spend the night in Davao City, Seda Abreeza Davao should be just right for you.
2 Hotel Tropika Davao
Calm, cool, and serene, these are the words that best describe Hotel Tropika Davao. The hotel’s grand interiors help cultivate the tranquility of the place. The Asian theme gives it a cool and serene aura that’s perfect for meditation and relaxation. If you’re going to Davao City to take a break from work or school, Hotel Tropika Davao will definitely help alleviate your stresses.
1 Marco Polo Davao
The Marco Polo Davao is a world-class hotel that stands for elegance and sophistication. It is the tallest hotel in the island of Mindanao with 18 floors. The magnificent interior design of the hotel matched with the gorgeous landscape architecture of the hotel grounds make for an aesthetically pleasing experience. The hotel also boasts of the picturesque views of Davao City that can be seen from its rooms. Marco Polo Davao is as close to perfection as hotels can get. It’s almost impossible to find any undesirable trait with this hotel. So if you simply want the top and the best for your stay in Davao City, Marco Polo Davao is the hotel for you.
Editor’s Note: The author is the Vice President for Communications of TEAM Philippines (Tourism Educators And Movers of the Philippines), an organization of individuals and groups committed to promote the tourism industry in the Philippines.
