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Showing posts with label Walking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Walking. Show all posts

If there is one street that captures the pulsing heart, vintage charm, and cool mountain spirit of Baguio City, it is Session Road. Spanning 1.7 kilometers through the central business district, this historic, sloping thoroughfare is more than just a stretch of asphalt—it is a cultural rite of passage.

Walking down Session Road means immersing yourself in the crisp highland air, navigating a lively mix of mid-century architecture, and stumbling into hidden alleys filled with art and coffee.  



Famous Landmarks

As you make your way along the incline, keep an eye out for these classic geographical and historical anchors:

Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral (Baguio Cathedral): Perched majestically atop Mount Mary Hill, this rose-colored, twin-spired cathedral stands at the upper end of Session Road. A long flight of stone steps links it directly to the main street, rewarding those who climb with panoramic views of the city center.

Baguio Cathedral

Casa Vallejo: Located just at the cusp of Upper Session Road, this is Baguio’s oldest surviving hotel, built in 1909. It survived the carpet-bombing of World War II and retains its beautiful, rustic wood-and-brick colonial heritage.

The Post Office Loop: Marking the peak of the main commercial stretch, this roundabout is a classic orientation point where old Baguio meets modern traffic.



Top Things to Do Along Session Road

The best way to experience Session Road is slowly, ideally on foot.


1. Catch the Sunday Pedestrianization

If you can time your visit, walk Session Road on a Sunday. The entire thoroughfare closes to vehicular traffic, turning the street into a massive public living room. You will find local street artists creating chalk masterpieces on the asphalt, live acoustic buskers, and pop-up markets featuring highland crafts.



2. Go "Ukay-Ukay" Thrifting

Baguio is the undisputed capital of ukay-ukay (secondhand shopping). Mid-Session Road and its intersecting side streets are packed with multi-level thrift buildings. If you are willing to dig through the tightly packed racks, you can score premium vintage denim, winter coats, and streetwear for a fraction of retail prices.


3. Hunt for Highland Pasalubong

Near the lower end of the road, old-school bakeries and souvenir shops display rows of Baguio’s edible identity. It’s the perfect place to grab fresh strawberry jam, peanut brittle, creamy ube halaya, and locally woven textiles before heading down to the nearby Baguio Public Market

RELATED: Is Walking From Burnham Park to SM City Baguio Worth It?


Where to Eat

Session Road is a paradise for food lovers, hosting a legendary mix of decades-old institutional kitchens and eclectic bohemian spaces.
 
 

Oh My Gulay

Creative Vegetarian / Local Coffee

Set in a whimsical, indoor tropical garden and art space created by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik. Located on the 5th floor of the La Azotea Building.


Hill Station

Continental & Mountain Fusion

Fine dining comfort food (like slow-cooked baked liempo and steak) housed inside the historic structure of Casa Vallejo at Upper Session.


Luisa’s Cafe

Old-School Chinese-Filipino

A true local relic. For decades, it has been the smoke-filled, coffee-scented gathering place for local journalists and residents over fresh mami and siopao.

Sizzling Plate Sessio Road

Sizzling Plate

Budget-Friendly Steaks

A homegrown Baguio staple since 1978. Follow the rich, smoky aroma drifting right onto the Session Road sidewalks.


Solibao

Traditional Filipino & Merienda

An institutional favorite since the 1970s, highly sought after for local comfort food classics like kare-kare, pancit palabok, and puto bumbong.



Local Tip

Always start your walk from the Upper Session/Cathedral end and head downhill. Your knees and calves will thank you, and gravity will naturally steer you right into the colorful chaos of the Baguio City Market or the green lawns of Burnham Park at the bottom. Bring a light jacket—even when the sun is out, the mountain breeze dipping through the storefront complexes can get remarkably brisk by late afternoon.

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HOTELS NEAR SESSION ROAD


You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. You can also look for an affordable Airbnb in the city. Get up to P3,100 FREE credits on your first booking.

You may also check Top10 hotels in Baguio on our separate blog.

Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.


ALSO READ:

IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO:


Walking Along Session Road (Baguio City Stroll)


Walking from the lush lawns of Burnham Park up to the rooftop terraces of SM City Baguio is one of the most classic inner-city treks you can do. But make no mistake: while it looks short on a map, this walk introduces your legs to Baguio’s defining characteristic—its steep, rolling hills.

Here is your complete guide to conquering the uphill walk from Burnham Park to SM City Baguio.



What to Expect

Because Baguio is built on mountains, a flat 1-kilometer walk in Manila is vastly different from a 1-kilometer walk here.

How Far: Approximately 1.1 to 1.3 kilometers (depending on whether you start from the Burnham Lake lagoon or the Harrison Road edge).

How Long: 15 to 25 minutes. It takes longer than a standard flat walk because the final half of the route is entirely uphill.

How Many Steps: Roughly 1,500 to 2,000 steps.



Step-by-Step Walking Route

The most scenic, foot-friendly, and straightforward way to do this trek is by using Session Road as your main pathway.


The Start (Burnham Park): Exit the park on the eastern side near the Melvin Jones Grandstand or Harrison Road.


The Transition: Cross the road toward Lower Session Road (near the Maharlika Livelihood Center / Baguio Public Market area).

The Climb (Session Road): Walk straight up Session Road. This is a gradual but continuous incline. Enjoy the storefronts, the cool breeze, and the historic mid-century buildings to distract yourself from the elevation change.



The Final Stretch: Once you reach the very top of Session Road (the Post Office Loop/roundabout), follow the pedestrian sidewalk heading toward Governor Pack Road or the Baguio Cathedral steps.

The Arrival: Cross safely using the pedestrian lanes leading up the final steep ridge of Luneta Hill, which brings you directly into the lower or main entrance of SM City Baguio.


SM City Baguio in 2012

Great Things to Do Nearby (Along the Route)

Instead of just racing to the mall, treat this walk as an open-air itinerary. You will pass or be within a 2-minute detour of these iconic spots:


Baguio Public Market & Maharlika Center: Located right where you transition from Burnham to Session Road. Stop here if you want to buy fresh strawberries, native Sagada coffee beans, or affordable souvenirs.

Baguio Cathedral (Our Lady of the Atonement): Right at the top of Session Road. Climb the 100+ stone steps to view the beautiful rose-colored structure and take a quiet breather.

Baguio Cathedral in 2012

Session Road Cafes & Thrift Shops: Drop by institutional spots like Luisa’s Cafe for a quick siopao or hunt through multi-level ukay-ukay buildings along the side streets.

The Sky Terrace (SM Baguio): Once you reach the mall, head straight to the open-air roof deck. It offers sweeping, unobstructed views of the city's pine trees and rolling mountain ridges.


The Verdict: Is It Worth Every Step?


Yes, absolutely.

If you are reasonably healthy, skip the taxi or jeepney and walk it. Here is why it's worth every single step:



The True Baguio Experience: You haven't truly experienced Baguio until you’ve tested your calves on its inclines. Walking is how locals navigate the downtown core, and it lets you feel the drop in temperature as the mountain wind funnels through the streets.

You Defeat the Traffic: Central Baguio traffic around Session Road and Governor Pack Road can get notoriously bottlenecked. Quite often, walking uphill is actually faster than sitting in a idling taxi trying to navigate the roundabouts.

Earn Your Calories: Baguio is a culinary heavy city full of rich hot chocolates, strawberry shortcakes, and sizzling plates. Treating the walk to SM Baguio as a mini-workout is the perfect way to justify your next food stop!

Local Tip: If your knees or lungs start complaining halfway up Session Road, don't force it. Grab a quick brewed mountain coffee at a local coffee shop, rest for five minutes, and then continue your march up the hill!

Session Road in 2012

HOTELS NEAR SESSION ROAD


You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. You can also look for an affordable Airbnb in the city. Get up to P3,100 FREE credits on your first booking.

You may also check Top10 hotels in Baguio on our separate blog.

Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.


ALSO READ:

IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO:


Walking from Burnham Park to SM City Baguio (Is It Worth It?)


The city of Makati is inviting locals and tourists alike to discover its vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic cityscape through a series of complimentary walking tours.



These tours, which are scheduled throughout the week, offer a unique opportunity to explore different facets of the city, from its bustling business district to its historic old town.

The free tours are a great way to experience Makati’s diverse character. Here’s a look at the schedule and what each tour offers:


Tuesdays (10:00 AM - 11:30 AM): The Garden Way of the Cross

This tour takes participants to the beautiful St. Alphonsus Mary de Liguori Church, where they can see the Stations of the Cross, which feature works from prominent Filipino sculptors. The meeting point is the Glorietta 2 entrance on Palm Drive.




Wednesdays & Fridays (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Central Business District Tour

Participants on this tour will get to see the modern side of Makati. As the country's financial hub, the Central Business District is home to multinational corporations, banks, and iconic skyscrapers. The tour also starts at the Glorietta 2 entrance.



Thursdays (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Poblacion Heritage Tour

This tour provides a journey back in time, allowing visitors to explore Makati’s old downtown area. The tour highlights the city's cultural heritage, which dates back to the 1600s. The meeting point is at the Museo ng Makati on J.P. Rizal Avenue.




Saturdays & Sundays (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Walkway & Market Tour

On weekends, the tours combine a pleasant walk through parks with a visit to one of Makati’s famous weekend markets. On Saturdays, the tour goes to the Salcedo Market at Jaime Velasquez Park, known for its organic produce and artisanal goods. On Sundays, the tour visits the Legazpi Market, a popular spot for food, crafts, and unique finds. Both weekend tours meet at the Glorietta 2 entrance.


To join these tours, interested individuals can register by scanning the provided QR code or by visiting www.makaturismo.ph. For more information or inquiries about the tour schedules, you can contact the International Relations Department at (02) 8870-1192 or (02) 8870-1195.



Explore Makati for Free with New Walking Tours


In the heart of Makati, amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, a weekly transformation takes place, breathing new life into the cityscape. Car-Free Sundays along Ayala Avenue have become a beloved tradition, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of urban life.



Every Sunday from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM, the entirety of Ayala Avenue, from Salcedo-HV Dela Costa to West St. & Fonda St., undergoes a remarkable change. The usual streams of vehicles are replaced by a sea of pedestrians, cyclists, and runners, reclaiming the streets for recreation, exercise, and community.

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Families, friends, and fitness enthusiasts come together to enjoy the open space, breathing in the fresh morning air and soaking in the energy of the city without the noise and pollution of cars.



For many, Car-Free Sundays are an opportunity to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Whether it's a leisurely stroll, a brisk jog, or a spirited bike ride, participants revel in the chance to be active outdoors. The absence of vehicles creates a safe and inviting environment for people of all ages and fitness levels to move freely and comfortably.



Beyond the physical benefits, Car-Free Sundays also promote social interaction and community bonding. As participants traverse the pedestrian-friendly streets, they engage in conversations, share smiles, and forge connections with fellow Makati residents and visitors. It's a time to break down barriers, foster friendships, and celebrate the vibrant diversity of the city.

In addition to promoting health and community, Car-Free Sundays align with Makati's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By temporarily restricting vehicular traffic, the city reduces its carbon footprint and encourages alternative modes of transportation, such as walking, cycling, and public transit.


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

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As the sun rises over Ayala Avenue on Sunday mornings, it brings with it a sense of possibility and renewal. Car-Free Sundays offer a glimpse of what urban life can be when streets are reclaimed for people, not cars. So, lace up your running shoes, grab your friends and furry companions, and join in the movement to embrace the freedom of Car-Free Sundays in Makati.

People Enjoys Car-Free Sundays at Ayala Avenue in Makati City


Makati City, known as the bustling financial hub of the Philippines, is not just a concrete jungle of towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. Beneath its surface lies a hidden gem: Southeast Asia's longest pedestrian underpass network. Spanning a total of 2 kilometers, this labyrinthine system of walkways provides safe passage for pedestrians and commuters across the city's bustling streets.



Developed jointly by Ayala Land and the Makati Commercial Estates Association (MCEA), Makati's underground walkways have been a game-changer since their inception.


The first of these underpasses, located on Legazpi Street, was constructed in 1995 as a response to the heavy traffic congestion plaguing the city in the 1990s. Since then, Makati's subterranean network has expanded to encompass several key areas within the Central Business District (CBD), offering a convenient and efficient way for pedestrians to navigate the city.


But Makati's underpasses are more than just utilitarian walkways; they are also celebrated for their artistic flair. Adorning the interiors of these passageways are vibrant murals created by talented Filipino artists. These artworks not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the underpasses but also serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

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Dubbed as #LetsWalkMakati, this initiative invites residents and visitors alike to explore the underground marvels of Makati and discover the diverse artworks adorning the walls of the pedestrian underpasses. From vibrant murals to intricate sculptures, each artwork tells a unique story, reflecting the spirit and identity of the Filipino people.



Among the highlights of this underground art gallery are:

1. Apartment Ridge Underpass: A gateway to the vibrant Apartment Ridge area, adorned with captivating artworks that capture the essence of urban living.

2. Legazpi Underpass: Named after the nearby Legazpi Village, this underpass showcases a blend of modern and traditional Filipino art forms, paying homage to the city's rich history.

3. Makati Ave. Underpass: Serving as a thoroughfare for pedestrians along Makati Avenue, this underpass features dynamic murals that reflect the energy and dynamism of city life.

4. Paseo De Roxas Underpass: A visual feast for the senses, this underpass boasts colorful artworks that celebrate the beauty of nature and the environment.



5. Paseo-Villar Underpass: Built from 2019–2021; connects the north side of  Ayala Triangle Gardens to Salcedo Village.

6. Salcedo Underpass: Named after the iconic Salcedo Village, this underpass serves as a canvas for contemporary art forms, showcasing bold and innovative artworks that push the boundaries of creativity.

7. Sedeño Underpass: Located near the bustling Ayala Triangle Gardens, this underpass features sculptures and installations that evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony amidst the urban landscape.

8. V.A. Rufino Underpass: Named after the renowned V.A. Rufino Street, this underpass is a testament to Makati's vibrant art scene, with eclectic artworks that reflect the city's cosmopolitan spirit.




Makati Underpass Map Guide


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

As visitors traverse through this underground art gallery, they are not only treated to a visual feast but also reminded of the power of art to inspire, provoke thought, and unite communities.


MAKATI UNDERPASS: Longest Underground Pedestrian Network in Southeast Asia

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