Juicy squid balls. Smoky grilled skewers. Sweet and savoury carioca (fried sticky rice balls with coconut). Filipino street food promises a riot of flavours, and the best place to fill up on them all is at the Roxas Night Market. After sunset, the market bursts to life, making it one of the best places to spend an evening sampling delicious local staples. Still hungry? Visit the city’s famous Chinatown for lumpiah (spring rolls) and bola bola siopao (steamed pork buns).

Soaring nearly 3,000 metres above sea level, Mount Apo tops most lists of things to do in Davao. Not only is the dormant volcano the tallest mountain in the country, but it’s also home to the rare Philippines eagle, too. The climb is best for experienced hikers since it can be strenuous, requires a permit and takes multiple days. If you’re looking for an easier trek, check out nearby Mount Sibulan for moderately challenging routes and incredible scenery.

Though just off the coast from Davao, sunny Samal Island feels a world removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Stick your toes in the sand on a pristine beach, snorkel off the coast, dive to World War II shipwrecks, cool off in refreshing pools at Hagimit Falls, or hike through the jungle – a night or two on the island will add another layer of relaxation and adventure to any Davao holiday.

Davao is known as the “Durian Capital of the Philippines”, so you can’t leave without sinking your teeth into this pungent, creamy – and often divisive – king of fruit. Bankerohan Public Market, the city’s central marketplace, is the best place to try durian, not to mention many other tropical fruits like mangosteen, soursop and pomelo.

The Philippines is home to over 100 Indigenous groups, accounting for an estimated 10 to 20 per cent of the population. Kadayawan Village celebrates these diverse, vibrant cultures and offers visitors a chance to explore models of traditional homes, try on Indigenous attire, or learn about handicrafts and rituals. Visit in August to see the annual Kadayawan Festival, which transforms the city with colourful dancing and music.

Looking for an idyllic side trip? Head southeast along the coastline for about four hours until you arrive at Dahican Beach, an inviting 7-kilometre-long crescent of fine white sand. Thanks to its position on the powerful Pacific Ocean, rolling waves create great conditions for skimboarding and even surfing (best between October and March). Keep your eye out for sea turtles, which nest in protected areas here.

Get a fuller picture of the city’s evolution at one of Davao’s top attractions, like City Hall, which dates to 1926 and sits on the oldest street in the city, or Museo Dabawenyo. The latter is a two-storey museum housing dedicated to the region’s Indigenous groups, ethnic minorities, religions and local artwork, as well as photo exhibitions covering the Japanese and American occupations.

Davao nightlife ranges from low-key pubs serving draft beer to high-end cocktail bars, energetic karaoke, dance clubs – whatever you’re in the mood for. For an eclectic night out, visit Rizal Street, an alleyway in the old part of town packed with inviting restaurants and bars. Some are hidden inside heritage buildings, others host live music every night, and each has its own unique personality.