34 Hidden College Campuses That Feel More Like Vacation Resorts

32. University of the Philippines Diliman – A Tropical Urban Oasis

In the heart of metro Manila, the University of the Philippines Diliman stands as a leafy sanctuary within one of Asia’s busiest cities. This flagship campus is a sprawling green escape, filled with massive acacia trees, art-filled walkways, and a strong sense of national pride. The iconic “Academic Oval,” a tree-lined loop popular with joggers and bikers, surrounds the central campus and serves as a communal gathering space where students, professors, and families converge. Between classes, students relax on the grass, feast on local street food like isaw and taho, or dive into exhibitions at the Vargas Museum or the nearby UP Theater. The campus is alive with creativity, political discourse, and cultural celebration, with student performances, public art, and spontaneous debates around every corner. UP Diliman is more than a university—it’s a cultural heartbeat of the Philippines, blending academic excellence with grassroots energy in a vibrant, nature-rich environment.