Things To Do
in Dagupan City
Dagupan City is a coastal city in Pangasinan known for its seafood heritage and bustling markets along Lingayen Gulf. It blends traditional fishing culture with growing commerce, offering easy access to beaches and nearby countryside. The city is friendly and approachable, with a focus on bangus (milkfish) dishes and vibrant street life.
Expect hot tropical weather, a lively seafood scene, and a gateway to Pangasinan’s coastal attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Dagupan City Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the area through its impressive collection of artifacts. After immersing yourself in local history, take a leisurely walk around the city plaza, admiring the beautiful architecture of the surrounding buildings. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a traditional breakfast of longganisa and garlic rice.
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant public market where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies. Engage with friendly vendors and pick up some unique souvenirs to take home. Afterward, head to the nearby Bonuan Blue Beach for a relaxing stroll along the shore, soaking in the sun and the sound of the waves.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner, famous in Dagupan. Savor the flavors of the region while watching the sunset over the Lingayen Gulf. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the beach, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and the twinkling lights of the city.
Kick off your day at the beautiful Bonuan Beach, where you can indulge in some morning swimming in the warm waters. After swimming, try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking, enjoying the view of the coastline. The beach’s inviting atmosphere will surely energize you for a day full of activities.
In the afternoon, join a local scuba diving tour to explore the vibrant marine life in the area. With experienced guides, you’ll learn the basics of diving while enjoying the underwater beauty that Dagupan has to offer. After your dive, relax on the beach, sipping on fresh coconut water and soaking up the sun.
As the day winds down, head back to the beach for a sunset picnic. Bring along some local snacks and a blanket to enjoy the view as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors. To cap off the night, gather around a beach bonfire with newfound friends, sharing stories and laughter under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥤Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi or local transport ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🍜Street food snack | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Bangus capital with world-class seafood
- Friendly locals and relaxed small-city vibe
- Good base for exploring Pangasinan coast and nearby attractions
- Limited heavy nightlife and high-rise scene
- Distance from major international hubs may require a longer journey
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Salamat po." - Thank you (polite)
- "Paalam na po." - Goodbye (polite)
- "Nasaan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Opo/Yes po." - Yes (polite)
- "Hindi po ako nakakasalita ng Filipino ng maayos." - I don't speak Filipino well.
Places to Visit in Dagupan City
Visit one of these nice places.
Long stretch of coast ideal for sunrise photography and wide seascapes.
Rocky shoreline with dramatic dawn and sunset silhouettes.
Urban waterfront area with colonial-era architecture and colorful market activity.
Close-up shots of boats, nets, and fishermen at work along the harbor.
Food in Dagupan City
Dagupan City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy milkfish diced and seasoned; a local favorite served with rice.
Must-Try!
Milkfish grilled to smoky perfection, often served with vinegar-pickled vegetables.
Milkfish stewed in a tomato-rich sauce with peppers and potatoes.
Sweet, fluffy rice cakes that pair well with salty fish dishes.
Seasonal, colorful vegetable medleys common in Pangasinan households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh fish, produce, and street snack stalls near the harbor.
Evening stalls offering fried snacks, skewers, and sweet treats along the city streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use po/opo when speaking to elders. Be polite and patient with service workers.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches; remove hats and talk quietly.
Haggling in markets is common if done with a smile and politeness.
Safety
Tipping in Dagupan City
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not always expected; round up the bill or leave 5-10% at nicer restaurants if service isn't included.
Cash is widely used; many places accept cards in larger establishments; digital wallets (GCash, PayMaya) are popular for small vendors and transport.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent sunny days; afternoons can be very warm—stay hydrated and seek shade.
Expect short, heavy showers and humidity; carry a light rain jacket and plan indoor activities during downpours.
Dagupan City at Night
Hiking in Dagupan City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate to challenging hike with scenic overlooks and nearby rural scenery.
Coastal hikes and boat tours offering sea views and limestone islets; day trips for nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach Dagupan City by plane.
Major airport in Pampanga; typically the easiest long-haul option to reach Dagupan by road.
Main gateway to the Philippines; a longer drive to Dagupan but frequently used by international travelers.
Smaller regional option within roughly a few hours drive; less frequent international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local Pangasinense, Tagalog-speaking residents, and visitors; strong fishing-based economy and growing commerce.
Active in coastal districts with ties to the Bangus industry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular across the Philippines; games and local leagues are common.
Common in schools, communities, and local courts.
Coastal communities engage in regular fishing, with local traditions and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dagupan City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Dagupan, look for vegetables-steered meals like Pinakbet, grilled vegetables, and seafood-free soups; ask for no fish stock in broths and request sauces on the side.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, vegetables, seafood); confirm soy sauce and vinegar are gluten-free, and avoid miso if not certain.