It’s not often you find yourself in a city surrounded by the friendliest people in the world. But if you do, chances are you’re in the small Filippino city of Cagayan de Oro. It is literally known as the ‘City of Golden Friendship,’ and you’ll soon find out why.
When travelling in Cagayan, it wouldn’t be surprising to find yourself cruising through the whitewater rapids, drinking speciality coffee, tasting barbecued toffee bananas on the street, or travelling through the busy city on a tuk-tuk.
However you choose to spend your days, you’ll always appreciate returning to an Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro. In a city as warm and welcoming as this one, its hospitality industry is top-notch.
While hotels, homestays, and hostels do exist, there is something special about staying in an Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro. Come home to prepare a home-cooked meal and relax in a spacious living area – the perfect home away from home.
And with that in mind, I’ve done the hard work for us and put together fifteen of the best Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro. I have no doubt you’ll find a property that matches your budget and style.
So, let’s dive on in and find out which one is best for you.
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- Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
- What to Expect from Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
- The 15 Top Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
- More Epic Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
- FAQs About Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
- What to Pack for Cagayan de Oro
- Final Thoughts on the Best Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
European Inspired Studio with City Views
- > $$
- > 3 Guests
- > 24-hour building staff available
- > Long-term stays allowed
Comfy Studio with Balcony and Pool Access
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Small balcony with city views
- > Wall divider between bed and living space
Scandinavian-Inspired 15th Floor Two-Bed Condo
- > $$$$
- > 4 Guests
- > Free on-site parking
- > Mod-con wooden built-in furniture and finishes
Minimalist Studio with Gym and Jungle Gym
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Smart TV with Smart Experience voice control lights
- > Complimentary pool access
Modern Studio with Personal Workspace
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Well-lit workspace with plug points
- > Within walking distance of shops and restaurants
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
So, what exactly can you expect after you click the ‘book now’ button? To put it lightly, Cagayan de Oro isn’t one of the most glamorous or popular locations for most people visiting the Philippines, and it’s not well known for its accommodations either. It is however a completely underrated location and a downright cool city.
While I managed to find fifteen great Airbnbs here, I can’t promise they include a lot of variety. Most of the Airbnbs on this list are studios or apartments located in high-rise buildings or condos. While many buildings are modern and new, apartments are typically small and compact.
On top of size, most are similarly organized, with furniture laid out to make the most of the space. The decor is usually minimal, and many apartments have built-in furniture and storage units that are standardized with other apartments in the block.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Inside your private place to stay in the Philippines, you can expect all the comforts of home. Need to whip up a meal? The fully equipped kitchen is the place to do so. Craving some time with your favourite TV show? Most apartments have a flatscreen Smart TV. Itching for a good night’s rest? A comfy bed should do the trick.
Something you can look forward to at the best Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro are the shared amenities that come with being in an apartment block.
By this, I mean swimming pools, children’s playgrounds, and common lounge areas that resemble the lobby of a hotel. Just note that many buildings charge a fee to use swimming pools.
Oh, one more thing, the city itself isn’t exactly a scuba paradise, but a short ferry ride away is the off-the-beaten-track diving spot of Camiguin, check it out!
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
Now that you know to expect fairly similar accommodation in different buildings, here are my top Airbnb picks in this local Filipino city. These options stand out for their prime locations and exceptional host experiences:
European Inspired Studio with City Views | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro
After a day of taste-testing local Filipino food and rafting through whitewater rapids, you’ll be over the moon to unwind in your own private apartment. This studio is designed with Nordic-inspired interiors that give the word ‘hygge’ a whole new meaning.
It’s warm and inviting, with wooden floors, high ceilings, and yellow lighting. The small studio is ideal for two guests but can squeeze in three if necessary. The hosts have really gone the extra mile to add seasonal decorations and personal touches to take your stay from good to excellent.
Comfy Studio with Balcony and Pool Access | Best Budget Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro
This modern studio is an epic budget option for travellers who aren’t willing to share their sleeping space with a stranger – I don’t blame you. Why would you squish into a hostel in the Philippines when you can rent this fantastic studio for a similar price?
This Cagayan de Oro Airbnb has a small yet well-equipped kitchen, a comfortable bed with a TV in front of it, and even a small balcony overlooking the city. When you stay here, you’ll be just a quick walk from tons of restaurants and cafes and can even use the shared swimming pool (depending on the season).
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View on Osprey View on REIScandinavian-Inspired 15th Floor Two-Bed Condo | Over-The-Top Luxury Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro
Tucked away in a residential building in the heart of Cagayan de Oro, you’ll find one of the most unassumingly luxurious apartments. It’s spacious, well designed, and has been recently refurbished with a fresh coat of paint and modern wooden interiors.
Good looks aside, it’s also super convenient. Not only is it just a stroll away from some of our favourite restaurants and shops, but it’s equipped with all the cooking essentials you might need. Add to the list a huge TV, free parking, and facilities for kids, and we have ourselves a winner.
Minimalist Studio with Gym and Jungle Gym | Perfect Cagayan de Oro Airbnb for Solo Travelers
A quick scroll through this listing will let you know you’ve hit the solo traveller jackpot. Instead of defaulting to a stuffy hostel dorm, you could rent out this compact yet comfortable studio for a similarly low price. If you’re solo travelling in the Philippines, you’ll love this place.
It’s located in the buzz of the city centre, includes free access to the swimming pool, and features a fast Wi-Fi connection for those bringing along some work. The TV is perfectly set up for a movie night, with Disney+ and Netflix, as well as moody lighting that can be controlled with voice control. Is this Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro from the future? I think so…
Modern Studio with Personal Workspace | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb for Digital Nomads
Airbnbs in this city might not be the most diverse or unique, but if there is one thing they do have going for them, it’s that they are well-suited for those rocking the digital nomad lifestyle. This is one of the best, with a dedicated workspace fitted with a comfortable chair, good lighting, and adequate plug points for all your devices.
The studio itself is small yet overflowing with light thanks to the massive windows. But don’t worry, the windows have blinds that can instantly darken the room, making it perfect for screen time.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
Five Airbnbs not enough for ya? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few more of my favourite Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro!
Two Bedroom City Center Condo with Athletic and Fitness Facilities
Not only is this Airbnb equipped with all the necessities for everyday life in the city, but it is also located in a building that offers plenty of resort-like amenities. Take, for example, the clubhouse and fitness room, swimming pool (with a separate kids’ pool), basketball court, and children’s playground— it’s got everything you need to keep fit while travelling!
The condo has two compact bedrooms, each designed with wooden walls and modular furniture. The kitchen is fitted with cooking essentials, and the TV is hooked up to all your favourite streaming sites. There is even a balcony where you can enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning sunlight.
Elegant Studio in the City Centre
Alright, let’s check out this gorgeous city-centre studio for a change of pace. It’s one of the more modern condos on the list, with a unique style that I can only describe as ‘basic contemporary.’ The bathroom is beautifully designed, with plenty of space to stash your toiletries or hang up any washing.
Wake up with the sun streaming through the windows and head straight for the kitchen to brew a fresh pot of coffee. Then, jump back into bed to sip your coffee, watching the city come alive outside the bedside window.
Central Studio with Skyline Views
Views of the city skyline, a walkable location, and enough space for three guests without the heavy price tag – what more could you need from an affordable Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro? If you’re budget backpacking, you’ll want to note this one down.
This condo is in the Limketkai neighbourhood, which is as central as it gets. The building has been designed to emulate a luxury hotel. It has a comfortable lobby, elegant elevator halls, and friendly building staff who will make you understand why the city is called the ‘City of Golden Friendship’.
Bright and Spacious Studio with City Views
Living in a dark space has the power to knock five points off the rating of a great Airbnb. Luckily, you won’t have to worry about this in this sunny studio overlooking the city.
With whitewashed interiors, warm wooden floors, high ceilings, and floor-length windows, you’ll feel as if you’re on the beach – even from the comfort of your bed. Other top amenities include the 25-floor view, laundry facilities, and plenty of storage space.
Two Bedroom Corner Apartment with Pool
This two-bedroom condo is brought to you by a stylish building block called Centrio Tower. It’s located on a high floor in a corner apartment, so you can expect sprawling city views from every window.
The interior is simply designed and decorated, with wooden furniture and quirky mismatched linens and pillows. Parking is available for a fee, and the hosts even allow guests to rent out the property for month-long stays.
Homey Studio Apartment in Central Cagayan de Oro
At first glance, this kid-friendly Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro looks just like a traditional hotel room. It has a studio layout, with a bed in front of the TV, and an ensuite bathroom. But on closer inspection, you’ll see that it is so much more.
Unlike a hotel room, this studio has a kitchenette with all the basic cooking essentials to create a foodie masterpiece (as well as a washing machine). The dining table fits four, and there is even a couch that turns into a bed for a third guest.
Family-Friendly Four-Bed Home with Laundry Facilities
If you’re visiting the city with a group of friends or travelling as a family, you’ve come to the right place. This four-bedroom home is one of the few townhouses in the city’s centre. It’s close to a ton of malls and restaurants, which you can cycle to or walk to from the house.
The duplex can comfortably fit eight guests, with four bedrooms upstairs and an open-concept living space on the ground floor. To make things feel even more like home, the house has a garage and laundry area for you to use during your stay.
One-Bedroom Apartment with Basic Kitchenette
It’s not often that you find a place with a basic kitchen, Smart TV, and dedicated workspace, all for a fraction of the equivalent price of a salad in California. The hosts have gone for a rustic boho aesthetic with this apartment, blending simplicity and practicality with a dash of tropical charm.
An epic Cagayan de Oro Airbnb for those embracing the digital nomad way of life, it is bright and spacious, with fast internet access and a dedicated workspace. The attention to detail combined with high-quality modern amenities puts this spot a cut above the rest.
Fully-Equipped Four-Bed Holiday Home with Resort Facilities
Travellers with young kids? Hear me out. I might have found the perfect Airbnb in Cagayan de Oro for young families. This is one of the few four-bedroom townhouses in the city, with enough room to comfortably fit nine guests. Each suite has closets to store clothing and a built-in work desk.
It’s located within a subdivided gated community just a short drive from the city’s major malls, golf courses, hospitals, and restaurants. The kitchen is the home’s winning feature. It’s got plenty of counter space, as well as high-end appliances to prepare a hearty holiday meal for the whole family.
Sunny Four Bedroom Home with Terrace
This spot is one of the best for families and groups of friends travelling together. It’s located a bit outside the city centre, but it makes up for its location by being super spacious, with four big bedrooms.
The home is located in a gated complex with full-time security, a running path, and even a convenience store. The kitchen has everything you need to cook a delicious meal, which can be eaten at the dining room table or al fresco on the outdoor deck.
FAQs About Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
Still have more questions? Worry no more because I’ve covered all the frequently asked ones right here. Read away and get ready to book the sickest Airbnb you’ve ever seen!
What to Pack for Cagayan de Oro
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Cagayan de Oro Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Cagayan de Oro.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro
It might not be the most popular tourist destination in the Philippines, but Cagayan de Oro has a lot going for it. Its residents are some of the friendliest in the world, and there are plenty of adventure-fueled activities to enjoy in the area. And let’s not forget about the delicious food.
With limited accommodation options on all fronts, Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro stands out as the best option for a few reasons. First, they provide a personalized experience, offering more space, privacy, and amenities than a traditional hotel. They’re also located in prime city centre areas, giving you easy access to some of the city’s best local neighbourhoods and sites.
I’ve always been a big Airbnb fan. Name a better way to experience a city like a local than by staying in your very own self-catering rental… I’m waiting.
I hope you’ve taken note of the best Airbnbs in Cagayan de Oro for your trip!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our Backpacking Philippines guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Philippines guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Philippines.
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