Davao City, officially the City of Davao, is a highly urbanized city located in the Davao Region of the Philippines. Situated on the island of Mindanao, it serves as the regional center for both the Davao Region and Metro Davao, which is the second-most-populous metropolitan area in the country. The city is geographically situated within the province of Davao del Sur, though it is governed independently from it. It acts as the main trade, commerce, and industry hub for Mindanao, anchoring the economic life of the southern Philippines.

The area was originally inhabited by Lumadic peoples, including the Bagobos and Matigsalugs, before being conquered by Datu Bago in the early 19th century. Spanish colonization began in earnest in April 1848 when José Cruz de Oyanguren founded the town of Nueva Vergara on June 29, 1848, honoring his homeland in Spain. The settlement later became the capital of Nueva Guipúzcoa province before being renamed Davao to reflect its Bagobo roots. Modern development accelerated after American arrival in 1900, with homesteading programs and the opening of the Port of Davao fostering prosperity and foreign investment.

The city is divided into three congressional districts, which are further subdivided into 11 administrative districts containing a total of 182 barangays. Its vast land area of 2,443.61 km2 makes it the largest city in the Philippines by size, with Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the country, highly visible from most parts of the city. The urban landscape includes the Bangkerohan Public Market, built on the site of the historic fortress of Pinagurasan, and Bolton Riverside, located near the mouth of the Davao River where early settlements once thrived.

Davao City is nicknamed the Durian Capital of the Philippines, highlighting its agricultural significance and culinary identity. The local language is Cebuano, known locally as Davao Bisaya, while English and Tagalog are widely understood. Visitors are drawn to its reputation as one of the most crime-free large cities in the nation, a status that developed significantly during the mayoralty of Rodrigo Duterte starting in 1988. The city also offers access to natural attractions like Mount Apo and retains historical sites from its Spanish colonial and pre-colonial eras.

According to the 2024 census, Davao City has a population of 1,848,947 people, making it the third-most-populous city in the Philippines after Quezon City and Manila. It is the most populous city in Mindanao and outside of Metro Manila. The economy is driven by its role as a major commercial center, supported by agriculture and trade. The city's strategic location on Davao Gulf facilitates maritime commerce, while its infrastructure supports its status as a key regional hub for industry and tourism in the southern Philippines.