Dumaguete, or locally known as The City of Gentle People, is the largest city in Negros Oriental. The city is famous for its colorful Buglasan Festival, ancestral houses, coffee shops, and tasty silvanas. The city is also a favorite far-flung destination for travelers from East Asia and Europe. The tourist attractions in Dumaguete are mostly found outdoors, such as museums, seaside boulevards, and well-maintained parks. Check this guide to discover the best things to do in Dumaguete!
Rizal Boulevard or locally known as the seaside is a popular coastal road that overlooks the Bohol Sea. Named after the country’s national hero, the boulevard is lined with trees, neo-classical style street lamps, and benches. Rizal Boulevard is a perfect viewpoint to witness the magnificent sunset in the city. At night, the boulevard transforms into an exciting destination with its street vendors, musicians, and souvenir shops.
Built mainly of brick and wood, the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral Parish or Dumaguete Cathedral is one of the most iconic structures in the city. Opened to the public in 1776, the striking historical church is one of the most visited places in the city. Prominent design elements include a well-maintained facade, fine altarpieces, and chandeliers. Visit in the morning or during sunset and marvel at the calm lighting inside the cathedral.
Founded by Dr. Hubert Reynolds in 1970, the Anthropology Museum holds a vast archeological and ethnological collection from different parts of the Philippines. Located at the Siliman Hall, the museum holds precious artifacts from previous excavations all over Negros Island and parts of Mindanao. Some of its notable collections include traditional healing tools from Siquijor, potteries, and well-crafted daggers. The museum is open from 08:30 to 16:30, and its busiest day is Saturday.
Constructed in the early 1900s, Siliman Hall is one of the finest examples of Stick Style American architecture in the country. Built mainly of wood and concrete, the hall stands as one of the well-maintained historic landmarks in Dumaguete. The distinctive facade of the hall usually represents the city on postcards. The hall houses many important artifacts such as a golden Sarimanok, tapestries of magnificent patterns, love potions, and voodoo dolls.
Located in the heart of Dumaguete, Quezon Park is a large green space characterized by lush trees and broad open spaces. Reconnecting with Mother Nature is a breeze as local and foreign tourists can do a wide range of activities such as jogging and cycling. Nonetheless, a leisurely walk along the pathways to each end of the park can offer a relaxing refuge from the noise of the city.
Constructed in the early 1800s and converted into a watchtower in the 1870s, the Campanario de Dumaguete is one of the historic landmarks in the city. Situated just across the Dumaguete Cathedral, the belfry is often visited by local pilgrims to light candles and offer prayers. Admire the history and cultural importance of the belfry as you explore the area.
Casaroro Falls is a natural waterfall just a few kilometers away from the city center. Just an hour’s drive away, the waterfall is often visited by local and foreign tourists. Aside from taking a refreshing dive into the cool waters of Casaroro Falls, travelers can try other activities within the area. A short hike allows stunning views of the waterfall. Visitors can also visit the cafes and restaurants in Valencia.
Located along Rizal Boulevard, the Chinese Bell Church in Dumaguete is one of the most visited destinations in the city. A Taoist temple, the church is a colorful landmark that attracts tourists and pilgrims from different parts of the country. Marvel at the well-manicured garden, dragon statues, and a pagoda of bell church as you explore the area.
Located in front of the Provincial Capitol, Freedom Park is a 40-acre lush urban space visited by many locals soaking up the sun on their lunch breaks. Freedom Park is an ideal place for casual gatherings, aside from the usual relaxing stroll or small picnics. At night, the park is visited by tourists for its colorful lights and dancing fountain.
Located just across Siliman University, the #DumaGetMe signage is one of the popular tourist attractions in the city. Strike your favorite pose and snap Instagram-worthy photos with the huge sign. The area is also one of the best spots to witness the breathtaking sunset on Negros Island. At night, the space around the signage transforms into a bustling food park where you can sample some of the famous Filipino street food.
Dumaguete is teeming with prestigious educational institutions and historical sites. Celebrated as Negros’ university town, it has rivaled Bacolod for academic influence on the island. Admired as the city of gentle people, Dumaguete is home to friendly locals, prominent ancestral houses, cafes, and silvanas.
The best time to visit Dumaguete is during the dry season—January to May. The sunniest time of year is generally April and May when the highest temperature is usually around 33°C and 28°C at night.
Accommodation in Dumaguete comes in wide variations, from the cozy bed and breakfasts outside the city center to the grand 4-star hotels near the airport. Whether it be an overnight stay, a short break, or a longer holiday, it’s easy to find the perfect place to stay in the city.