iloilo city travel

13 Best Things to Do in Iloilo, Philippines

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In the 19th century, Iloilo was the Philippines' richest city. The sugar trade made millionaires out of the landowners, traders and middlemen who lived in the city and neighboring towns of Jaro, Mandurriao, La Paz, Santa Barbara, and Molo.

While the local sugar trade is a shadow of its former self, Iloilo remains a crown jewel of the Philippines' cities : a gracious settlement with a bustling city center, grand churches, excellent food , and a tradition of generosity that visitors experience to this day.

The Philippines' capital Manila fares poorly in comparison. Iloilo has little of its packed slums, traffic, and pollution, replacing those with an abundance of museums, shiny new hotels and restaurants, and an irrepressible optimism and pride of place.

The city is a six-hour bus ride from Caticlan near Boracay , and well worth a few days' detour if you want to see the cultural upside of this part of the Philippines. Here's what to do once you're there.

Take a Morning Stroll Along the Iloilo Esplanade

Mike Aquino

A new, 0.7 mile-long riverside walk now graces the Iloilo River separating the city’s districts of Mandurriao and Molo. The Iloilo Esplanade currently serves as a focus for activity, leisure, dining, and nightlife in the city, thanks to its central location and its proximity to bars, restaurants, and hotels in Smallville and the Atria Park District.

Early morning and late afternoon hours at the Esplanade see it filled with joggers and pedestrians just taking in the gentle light, the sight of the river, and the occasional mangrove patches along the water. Coffee breaks or full-blown meals can be had at the adjacent Riverside Boardwalk complex.

Travel Back in Time at Calle Real

 Mike Aquino

The main thoroughfare of J.M. Basa Street has long been Iloilo’s main business avenue, The former “Calle Real” (Royal Street) connected the Plaza Alfonso XII (now Plaza Libertad) to the Casa Real and the city’s stately mansions. The buildings on this stretch have a long, rich history dating back to the early 20th century,

Key stops along Calle Real include the venerable Eusebio Villanueva Building, formerly a luxury hotel and now a creative space for art galleries like gallery i ; Roberto’s Queen Siopao, Iloilo’s favorite stop for Chinese meat buns; and the Casa Real de Iloilo , former provincial capitol turned museum and exhibition space.  

Visit Iloilo’s Only UNESCO World Heritage Site

Sam Corros/Getty Images 

The gorgeously-carved Miag-ao Church is one of the Philippines’ UNESCO-recognized baroque churches , sharing the honor with San Agustin Church in Manila. Completed in 1787, it was set on the highest point of the town inland to protect against then-frequent slave raids—the five-foot-thick walls attest to Miag-ao Church’s secondary use as a fortress.

The stone bas-relief on the Miag-ao Church’s facade uses tropical elements, like a coconut tree, palms, and papaya trees, to accompany venerable Catholic figures like Saint Christopher and Miag-ao’s patron saint Thomas of Villanueva.

You can visit the church on any day (Miag-ao is a 30-minute drive from Iloilo City), but try to visit during St. Thomas’ feast day, on Sept. 22, to join in the fiesta celebrations with the rest of the townspeople.

Buy Handmade Lace and Fine Embroidery

About 50 women work at Women United Through Handcrafted Lace and Embroidery’s workshop tables, creating beautifully-rendered religious artwork and fanciful animals from little more than thread, cloth, needles, and bobbins.

Their handiwork was borne out of necessity—these former patients of the Western Visayas Sanitarium in Santa Barbara had trouble finding employers willing to hire leprosy survivors. Today, their cooperative turns out delicate bobbin lace and embroidered cloth.

Tourists can come to watch the masters at their craft, and buy their products at the shop after.

Feel Like a Million Bucks at a Sugar Baron’s Mansion

The megamillionaire Lopez family of the Philippines built a sugar empire from their home base in Jaro, Iloilo. One of the Lopez scions later built a magnificent Beaux-Arts mansion in 1928 that reminds today’s visitors of the charmed lives of Iloilo’s pre-war upper crust.

The mansion at the heart of the ten-acre Nelly’s Garden (named after the builder’s daughter) looks wedding-cake gaudy both inside and out, with jazz-age ornaments and furnishings. A gracefully-curving staircase links the upper and lower floors, and the interiors are lavish in hardwood and luxurious fabrics.

In its heyday, Presidents, ambassadors, and Governors-general regularly slept here when visiting Iloilo. The present-day Nelly’s Garden was named a National Historic Landmark by the Philippines’ National Historical Institute in 2004.

Eat Netong’s Original La Paz Batchoy Noodles

The hearty Iloilo noodle dish known as La Paz batchoy was invented in its namesake market in downtown Iloilo, where Netong’s still holds court. Nothing can be more straightforward, yet more beloved to the average Ilonggo (as the local ethnic group is called): beef stock, egg noodles, innards, bone marrow, crushed pork rind, garlic, and egg, best eaten with a side order of puto , or Filipino rice cakes.

Netong’s has branched out across the city, with standalone air-conditioned stores in fancier locales like the Atria Park District. But Ilonggos swear by the batchoy that’s still served at Netong’s original market location.

Relive a Golden Age at Molo Plaza

Before its incorporation as one of Iloilo City’s districts, the town of Molo was the designated Chinese residential area—and as the local Chinese and mestizos ’ fortunes rose with the sugar trade, the town increased in prominence and beauty as well.

Traces of the town’s old glory can be found at the Molo Plaza, where the Saint Anne Parish Church (Molo Church) stands. Raised in 1831, the neo-Gothic Molo Church trades feminist themes with its adjoining park. On the church’s aisle pillars, 16 female saints occupy niches looking over the congregation; outside, a gazebo in the plaza shelters a sextet of Greek goddesses (pictured).

On Locsin Street at Molo Plaza’s western side, the 1920s-era Yusay-Consing Mansion (Molo Mansion) serves up artisanal ice cream at the backyard and local souvenirs at the ground floor.

Explore Local History at the Western Visayas Regional Museum

Mike Aquino 

A former provincial jail now serves as the premier National Museum for the Western Visayas region. Some $1.9 million was spent on refurbishing the building, enclosing the courtyard in a glass dome, and adding a grassy walking space on the roof.

Today, the Western Visayas Regional Museum shows a rotating lineup of exhibits that depict the islands’ surprisingly extensive history and rich culture.

Little remains of the prison that operated here from 1911 to 2006. In place of cells, five galleries exhibit displays ranging from traditional textiles from the Visayas; ancient fossils from nearby islands; and permanent exhibits like the Oton Death Mask , a pre-colonial funerary mask made of hammered gold.

Tee Off at the Oldest Golf Course in the Philippines

Robert Hammerslag (CC BY-SA 3.0)

The sport of golf was brought to Iloilo by Scottish railroad engineers in the 1900s. The course they constructed was the Philippines’ first, opening in 1913 as the Santa Barbara Golf and Country Club.

The rolling terrain of Santa Barbara town made it a perfect setting for a golf course, and the trees and water hazards complement the hills to make all 18 holes a challenging proposition for visiting golfers.

A museum at a pavilion overlooking the course contains artifacts relating to the Country Club’s century in existence, including very old-school gutta-percha golf balls found on the grounds.

See and Smell What’s on Sale at Iloilo Central Market

Just off Calle Real stands a massive market occupying an entire block. If you’ve never been inside a traditional Asian market, then the Iloilo Central Market can be quite a shock: maze-like hallways inside contain a variety of shops selling raw meat, dried fish, and cooked food.

The Central Market is especially famous for its trade in dried fish, which you’ll find on the Guanco Street side. The unavoidable odor of dried fish fills the air, and you’ll need a guide to explain the different kinds of fish on sale: dried squid, the tiny fish called dilis , the butterflied dried fish called daing , and mounds of fish paste the locals call guinamos .

Once you’ve made sense of the market’s layout, head over to the cooked food section where you can have coffee or a bowl of batchoy , piping hot, and cheap!

Ascend to Heaven from Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort

Kitsch and Catholicism go surprisingly well together. Take Garin Farm’s Pilgrimage Hill experience, where guests ascend a 456-step staircase that passes by scenes from Jesus’ life, before entering a dark tunnel that terminates in a blindingly white reimagination of Heaven, complete with a looped tape of choral music praising the Most High.

This experience is particularly popular during Catholic Holy Week, where devout locals trek up the hill for a glimpse of the Afterlife.

The whimsical ascent to Heaven aside, guests to Garin Farm can enjoy everything a 34-acre working farm delivers: face-to-face encounters with farm animals; recreational facilities like a zipline, swimming pool, and fishing pond; and surprisingly comfortable accommodations for guests who prefer to stay overnight.

Buy Souvenirs at a National Hero’s Home

Patrocinio Gamboa was Jaro, Iloilo’s Betsy Ross. In 1898, she sewed a copy of the Philippine flag that signaled the town’s allegiance to the Revolutionary Government of Visayas. Her handiwork eventually led to the end of Spanish rule in this part of the Philippines.

The house she sewed the flag in—Casa Gamboa—now houses Tinukib, Iloilo’s premier souvenir shop brand on the ground floor and the Jaro Museum on the second floor. The Museum depicts the life of the Jaro heroine and her times through images and artifacts, while the shop below honors contemporary Jaro women and their beautiful handiwork.

You’ll find plenty of traditional Jaro products on sale here, along with occasional crafting demonstrations (the shop has hosted chocolate-making and “hablon” weaving demonstrations on occasion). More modern-day souvenirs adorn the shelves, too, including T-shirts, baller bands, keychains, and books.

Swim and Play at the Gigantes Islands

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The “Islands of Giants” off northeastern Iloilo can take another few hours of travel from Iloilo City to reach, but this archipelago is as unspoiled as its cross-island cousin Boracay is developed. Jagged limestone formations, clean white sand beaches , and mysterious lagoons can be found in the space of a day.

You can book an island-hopping expedition that takes you to all corners of the Islas de Gigantes, including the saltwater cove known as Tangke, the lighthouse at North Gigantes Island, and the pristine beaches of Cabugao Gamay and Antonia Beach.

To get here, you’ll need to take a bus or van from Iloilo City to the town of Estancia; then ride a ferry to Gigantes Norte, the main jump-off point for a Gigantes islands adventure. Accommodations in the Gigantes Islands are basic and cheap, mostly located on Gigantes Norte Island.  

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Your Travel Guide to the Philippines

ILOILO ITINERARY( ILOILO TRAVEL GUIDE)

Akin to the sweet-sounding words of the Hiligaynon language spoken by folks here, layers of hidden charms await travelers about to explore Iloilo City . Known by its many monikers such as “Queen City of the South” and “City of Love”, the gentle nature of the people here fits the idyllic setting perfectly. A beautiful fusion of a deeply rooted culture, savory cuisines, heritage districts and a colorful history, trails every nook and cranny of this highly urbanized city. To maximize your visit, here’s an Iloilo Itinerary + Travel Guide for First Timers to help your plan your Iloilo trip .

WHAT'S IN THIS BLOG POST?

ILOILO ITINERARY

For a hassle-free tour in Iloilo , you can join an inexpensive group tour in Iloilo City and beyond that covers the top tourist attractions in the city.  Then on Day 2 , you can explore the nearby islands in Iloilo such as Guimaras or Gigantes Islands.

NOTE: Airfare, hotel, drinks, and souvenirs are not included in the sample budget.

• ILOILO DAY TOUR : RESERVE HERE
• ILOILO PRIVATE PILGRIMAGE TOUR: RESERVE HERE

ILOILO ITINERARY: DAY 1

  For  your Day 1 itinerary in Iloilo, you can visit the following tourist attractions:

ILOILO TOURIST SPOT

1. Jaro Cathedral

Address: Jaro, Iloilo

Admission: FREE

The Jaro Cathedral—built in Romanesque Revival style— is unique for having its bell tower located across the street. The present structure was constructed in 1874 with the two towers and the front balcony added in the 1950s after an earthquake damaged the facade. The cathedral’s main retablo and altar and the ceiling are a sight to behold. Another distinct feature of the cathedral is the presence of the statue of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria or the Lady of the Candles on the walls of the church—making it the only female among the all-male statues of saints.

2. Casa Mariquit

Address: Sta.Isabel Street, Jaro, Iloilo

Open Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission: ₱50 ($0.98, €0.88)

Casa Mariquit is a well-preserved ancestral house of the Javellana and Lopez family, constructed in 1803 by Don Julio Quisumbing Javellana. It was eventually passed on to his granddaughter Mariquit and Fernando Lopez, the former Iloilo City Mayor, Senate President, Vice President of the Philippines in 1950’s for 3 terms, and co-founder of ABS-CBN and Meralco.

Casa Mariquit is located in a small street in Jaro, Iloilo with a gigantic balete tree. The gorgeous 2-storey traditional house is a typical bahay na bato made of brick walls, lime mortar, and hardwood. The silong (underground) houses a metal vault and became a veritable bank.

3.Calle Real

Address: General Luna Street, Iloilo City

Open Hours: 24/7

Calle Real is a historic street in Iloilo where most of the city’s heritage buildings can be found. Architecture junkies will delight at the many art deco, beaux-arts and neoclassical buildings here. While some of the old houses are in state of ruins, there is a growing movement to restore all the structures in this Spanish era street. This is a good place to take a walk and get a feel of the olden vibe of Iloilo City.

4.Casa Real de Iloilo

Open Hours: Weekdays 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Casa Real de Iloilo, a National Historic Site, is the Old Capitol Building of Iloilo. It was constructed in 1869 during the Spanish rule and is situated along Muelle Loney Street and General Luna Street. Casa Real serves as the Kilometer Zero of Iloilo, just like the Negros Occidental Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod .

5.Museo Iloilo

Address: Iloilo City Proper, Iloilo

Open Hours:  Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

A small museum located right smack in the downtown area, Museo Iloilo houses art pieces showcasing the richness of Panay’s Cultural Heritage as well as contemporary art pieces. Various exhibits are held every month so even if you have visited this place in the past, there is always something new to marvel at.

6.Molo Church (Saint Anne Parish Church)

Address: 132 San Pedro Street, Molo, Iloilo

Known as the “ Feminist Church ” because it houses 16 statues of female saints, this Gothic Church constructed in 1888 is considered as one of the most beautiful churches in the Philippines. Located in the district of Molo—a mere 15-minute drive from downtown Iloilo—the church is highlighted by its dual pyramidal red spires and impressive interior elements consisting of pristine looking altars, pulpits and paintings.

7. Miagao Church

  Address: Zulueta Avenue

Miagao Church is included as among the Baroque Churches in the Philippines inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and other Spanish-era churches situated in almost every town in Iloilo Province.

8.Garin Farm

Address: San Joaquin, Iloilo

Open Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entrance Fee : (Regular) ₱150 ($3, €3), FREE for children 2 y.o and below

Garin Farm Inland Resort, where the “ Stairway to Heaven ” can be found, is in San Joaquin—an hour away from Iloilo City.

9. Denila Grapes Farm

Address: New Lucena Road, Brgy.Lanag, Sta.Barbara, Iloilo

Open Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entrance Fee : (Regular) ₱30 ($0.59, €0.53), (Students/Seniors) ₱20 ($0.39, €0.35)

Grape Picking: ₱120 ($2.36, €2.11) per kilo

Located an hour away from Iloilo City in the municipality of Santa Barbara, Denila Grapes Farm is a surprising attraction because—well, the farm cultivates the fruit of grapes, which is rare to grow in a tropical country like the Philippines. Aside from Brazilian grapes, this scenic 2.7-hectare farm is also covered with sunflowers. Grape viewing and picking are available for visitors wanting to buy a kilo or two and learn more about grape farming. Grape pickings are open from 8am to 5pm and prices starts at 120 pesos per kilo.

10.Iloilo River Esplanade

  Open Hours: 24/7

Entrance Fee : FREE

Catch the scenic Iloilo sunset at Iloilo River Esplanade.  Recently expanded to 8.1 kilometers from a mere 1.2 kilometers, the Iloilo River Esplanade is another popular attraction of the city. Built to create a safe public space for the residents, it has now become a favorite place of both the locals and tourists for a fun stroll with family and friends. Various establishments like coffee shops, bars and restaurants line up the river along with scenic gardens and jogging and cycling paths.

11.Smallville Complex

Fancying a night out in the city of love? Then head out to Smallville Complex where several hip clubs, bars, cafes and restaurants are all located in a big compound separated only by a 2-minute walk from each other. This is a good place to unwind after a long day of exploring Iloilo City.

ILOILO ITINERARY: DAY 2

For Day 2 in Iloilo, you can make a side trip to Guimaras Island, just 15-minute by boat from Iloilo City. You can do a DIY Guimaras trip, or join a Guimaras day tour from Iloilo.

GUIMARAS TOUR: RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

Guimaras Island

Despite being a separate island province, Guimaras is only a 15-minute boat ride away from Ortiz Wharf in Iloilo City making it an almost automatic side-trip of tourists visiting Iloilo. You can opt to do a DIY Guimaras day trip or spend a few nights on the islands. Some of the places to see and things to do in Guimaras includes: island hopping, beach bumming, visiting the mango plantation, the Trappist Monastery, snorkeling at Alubihod beach, take an Instagrammable picture at Guisi Lighthouse, see the Guimaras windmills, taste the mango pizza and experience the Manggahan Festival which happens every month of April and May.

RELATED POST: GUIMARAS ITINERARY + TRAVEL GUIDE

Iloilo itinerary: expenses, iloilo itinerary: day 3-4.

If you still have more time and budget for your Iloilo trip, you can head to Gigantes Islands for island hopping.  You can do a DIY trip or join a group tour.

GIGANTES ISLAND TOUR: RESERVE HERE

HOW TO GET TO ILOILO CITY

  There are non-stop flights to Iloilo International Airport from Manila, Clark, Cebu, and Davao. There’s also a direct flight from Singapore to Iloilo.

FIND FLIGHTS HERE

From Cebu Pier 3 in Cebu City, you may also take a n overnight ferry to Iloilo City.

  RESERVE HERE

There are also ferries traveling between Manila and Iloilo.

RESERVE HERE

ILOILO AIRPORT TO ILOILO CITY

From Iloilo International Airport you have the following option to go to Iloilo City proper.

From Iloilo International Airport, you can take a point to point bus to downtown Iloilo.

Bus Ticket: RESERVE HERE

If you miss the bus schedule, you also have the option to take a shared or private van to Iloilo City.

Shared/private Airport Transfer : RESERVE HERE

If coming from Fort San Pedro Port (Iloilo Seaport), you may take a private/shared van to Iloilo City proper.

Cabs to Iloilo City proper are plenty at Iloilo International Airport.

GETTING AROUND ILOILO CITY

• By Jeepneys

Jeepneys are plenty in Iloilo City and it’s the cheapest way to get around Iloilo City.  Rate depends on your destination, but jeepney fare in Iloilo starts at ₱8 ($0.16, €0.14)

• By Tour Package

Taking the jeepney to explore  Iloilo City can be quite confusing if you are a first time visitor, better join in one of the group tours that will show you around and beyond Iloilo City.  For hassle-free Iloilo tour, you can choose below and book in advance before your Iloilo trip.

Iloilo Tour: RESERVE HERE

Iloilo Pilgrimage Tour: RESERVE HERE

Iloilo Food Tour: RESERVE HERE

Iloilo Farm Tour: RESERVE HERE

Guimaras Day Trip: RESERVE HERE

Carles Day Trip:   RESERVE HERE

If you have the budget, you can explore Iloilo by taxi, always use the meter.  But if hiring the taxi for the entire day, negotiate with the driver and make sure you agreed on the price before starting your Iloilo tour.

WHERE TO STAY IN ILOILO CITY

Goldberry Lite Hotel

Location: Iloilo City Proper

ROOM RATES HERE   or RESERVE HERE

GT Hotel Iloilo

ROOM RATES HERE  or RESERVE HERE

Harbor Town Hotel

ROOM RATES HERE or RESERVE HERE

Circle Inn – Iloilo Center

WHERE TO EAT IN ILOILO CITY  

Netong’s Original La Paz Batchoy

Lost in the “ batchoy war ” between Deco’s and Ted’s, is a culinary icon of the city: Netong’s Original La Paz Batchoy. Serving a bowl-full of goodness at its original location inside La Paz Market, Netong’s has become a must-go-to-eat place by both locals and visitors of Iloilo City since it first opened in the 1940’s. So, when you find yourself in the city of love, do yourself a favor by ordering a mega bowl of La Paz Batchoy and feast yourself to happiness.

A throwback from today’s Instagrammable cafés, Madge Café retains its charming rustic vibe as it remains a huge part of Iloilo City’s coffee culture 50 years after it first opened. Screaming of authenticity notwithstanding its fading wall paints and flooring, this coffee shop—which is also located inside La Paz Market—offers a genuine coffee experience in a stripped back and no-frills environment.

Samurai Talabahan

When traveling to Iloilo City, one must include a stop at a seafood haven. You will be hard-pressed to find something better than Samurai Talabahan. Situated just across Smallville, this popular seafood joint is another local favorite because of its big, sumptuous servings of cheap oysters baked in a myriad of ways. They also serve grilled pork and chicken.

Roberto’s Siopao

Another culinary institution in Iloilo City is Roberto’s Siopao. Known for its oversized pieces of siopao such as Queen Siopao (stuffed with Chinese sausage, pork adobo, bacon and egg); King Siopao (stuffed with ham, chicken, pork adobo, egg and Chinese sausage); Jumbo Siopao (stuffed with chicken sausage, chicken adobo and egg) and the Regular Siopao filled with pork adobo and egg. Located right smack at Iloilo’s heritage district at Basa Street, Roberto’s Siopao also serve other savory dishes.

Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafood

Included in almost every “ Places to Eat in Iloilo ” listicle articles, Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafood serves a medley of mouthwatering Filipino native cuisines like their signature native lechon manok, grilled scallops, baked talaba, steamed pasayan, blue marlin, fish tail soup and more. This place is perfect for dining with the whole family or a large group of friends because of their way of serving their food in a fiesta-like atmosphere.

Brewery Gastropub

The local craft beer trend has arrived in Iloilo and it’s all good. Kudos to Brewery Gastropub for further promoting Philippine-brewed beers such as: Boracay Blonde, Guimaras Goose, Dinagyang Pale Ale and more. Because ordering these fine tasting beers requires to be matched with tasteful side dishes, Brewery Gastropub has also come up with a sumptuous menu consisting of fancy dishes like Beer Can chicken, rack of skewers, boneless crispy pata and more. There is no better way to cap off your Iloilo trip by having a local craft beer session at this place.

Breakthrough Restaurant

A must-dine place in Iloilo for travellers craving for the freshest seafood, Breakthrough has sort of become a tourist attraction on its own–owing to the fact that it has been a big part of the city’s culinary culture. Popular dishes here includes the Aligue rice, Managat Fish (red snapper), Imbao clams, fresh oysters cooked in various ways, diwal shells and many more.

WHEN TO GO IN ILOILO

During the monsoon months from June to August, make sure to check out the weather update for upcoming typhoons as the province situates in the path of most storms that makes landfall in the Philippines. Other than that, every month appears to be the best time to visit Iloilo. If you want to mix seeing the tourist spots in Iloilo with a festive event, then you better time your visit with the Dingayang Festival.

Dinagyang Festival

Rock and dance to the stomping drumming beats of this festival, known for its lively music, graceful dances and colorful costumes. Dinagyang Festival, celebrated every fourth Sunday of January is one of the most popular and oldest festivals in the Philippines. This is a good time to experience Iloilo as everyone seemed to be in jovial mood celebrating the festival by dancing in unison to the lively rhythms.

Paraw Regatta

  Believed to be Asia’s oldest traditional sea craft, the Paraw Regatta gathers seafarers for a race over the waters of Iloilo Strait from Iloilo City to the island of Guimaras. Aboard colorful Paraw sailboats, in dozens and sometimes numbering to a hundred, it dishes a spectacular sight as each Paraw glides smoothly over the sea.

The design of modern day Paraws still possesses the original design of the Paraw sailboats of the first settlers of Iloilo who came from the island of Borneo in early 13th century. First started in 1973, the Paraw Regatta is celebrated every 3rd weekend of the month of February.

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About the Blogger: Marky Ramone Go is a regular contributor at  Happy Philippines (Itinerary & Travel Guide) Blog. 

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21 Things to do in Iloilo + Tourist Spots

Located in the geographic center of the country, along the southern coast of heart-shaped Panay Island, Iloilo has a lot to offer for travelers who want to explore beyond the Philippines’ typical tourist trail.

The provincial capital, Iloilo City is well-known for its traditional food, rich history, colorful festivals, and progressive yet laid-back vibe. In the northern part of the province, you’ll find stunning islands with gleaming white-sand beaches and a hidden lagoon.

Head south to see centuries-old churches and well-preserved heritage sites built during the Spanish-colonial era. Iloilo is blessed with scenic mountains too!

Here’s a list of beautiful places to visit in Iloilo including top things to do & the best Iloilo tourist spots.

To make your trip planning easy, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app. Seeing all your saved locations on the map will help you get started on planning your Iloilo itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

See also: Iloilo Itinerary , Best Travel Apps .

View all travel tips on: Iloilo .

Things to Do in Iloilo

1. Explore Iloilo City

Iloilo River Esplanade view from Muelle Deli, in Iloilo City, Philippines

Location : Iloilo Province, Western Visayas region, Central Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Iloilo City is one of The Philippines’ oldest cities and most popular tourist destinations. This charming city is famous for its mouthwatering food, Spanish-colonial heritage sites, and World-famous festivals Dinagyang Festival. Explore centuries-old churches and ancestral houses like the Molo Church, Molo Mansion, Jaro Cathedral, Camiña Bahay na Bato & more. Walk along historic Calle Real (downtown area) and see the sunset from the Iloilo River Esplanade. Iloilo Airport serves direct flights to major cities all around the Philippines.

Bacolod-Iloilo Ferry

Iloilo private transfers.

Airport/hotel transfers Fort San Pedro

Iloilo City Tours

Iloilo City Heritage Tour

Iloilo Mysterious Private Half Day Tour

Iloilo Culinary Half Day Tour

Book your trip to Iloilo

Before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip! Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Iloilo Hotels Tours + discounts Flights Airport transfers

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Iloilo Airport-Iloilo City Hotel Shuttle – ILO Private and Shared Transfers

Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo City

Guimaras Island Private Day Tour from Iloilo City

Iloilo Southern Countryside Tour

Iloilo City COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing [In-Clinic Test]

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

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2. Island Hopping in Gigantes & Northern Iloilo

Antonia Beach in Gigantes, Carles, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Northern Iloilo Province, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Surrounded by one of the country’s most abundant fishing grounds, the northern coast of Iloilo is dotted by beautiful islands with white sand beaches and captivating rock formations. Gigantes Islands is Iloilo’s most popular island hopping destination. Here, you can find Cabugao Gamay Island, which offers a 360-view overlooking the pristine blue sea, and Tangke, an enchanting hidden saltwater lagoon. Nearby, Sicogon Island beckons with its natural beauty and luxurious resorts developed by Ayala Land. Another tropical paradise worth exploring is the Concepcion group of islands, which offers offers one of the most scenic seascapes in Northern Iloilo.

Gigantes Island Hopping Day Tour from Iloilo

Gigantes & carles resorts & hotels.

Where to stay

Sicogon Island Resort and Hotels

3. Visit Southern Iloilo’s Heritage Sites

Garin Farm in San Joaquin, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Southern Iloilo Province, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Iloilo flourished during the Spanish-colonial era. This is evident in the exquisite centuries-old churches dotted across the province. Along the Iloilo’s southern coast, the well-preserved Miagao Church stands magnificently as one of the Philippines’ prized architectural gems. In 1993, the church was included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. Miagao is often visited as a day trip from Iloilo City along with other interesting attractions in Southern Iloilo. Including Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort, San Joaquin Cemetery, San Joaquin Church, San Joaquin pebble beaches & marine sanctuary, Guimbal Church, Tigbauan Church, and more.

Southern Iloilo Day Tours

Iloilo City Heritage and Southern Countryside Half Day Tour

Iloilo Private Pilgrimage Day Tour

4. Side trip to Guimaras Island

Piagau Beach in Taklong Island National Marine Reserve, Brgy. La Paz and San Roque, Nueva Valencia

Location : Western Visayas region, Central Philippines. Just off the coast of Iloilo City . Save on Google Maps .

Guimaras is known as the “Mango Capital of the Philippines” & it’s famous for producing one of the sweetest mangoes in the world. The island province is very easy to visit from Iloilo City. The ferry crossing from the heart of the city only takes 15 minutes! Go on a tour around the island & visit Guimaras’ tranquil white-sand beaches & top tourist spots like the Oro Verde Mango Plantation, Trappist Monastery, Guimaras Windmills & more.

Guimaras Day Tour from Iloilo

Guimaras Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

See more : Side trip to Guimaras Island travel tips

5. See Central Iloilo’s natural sites & countryside

Upper Imoy Falls near Bucari in Leon, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Iloilo Province, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

The central part of Iloilo is home to vast farmlands, where you can enjoy the peaceful countryside life, and beautiful mountainous areas teeming with nature. Bucari, Leon (Iloilo’s summer capital) offers a cool climate, a pine forest, picnic/camping grounds. Towns like Tubungan, Igbaras and Miagao are popular hiking destinations, renowned for their majestic waterwalls and refreshing views overlooking the Central Panay mountain range.

Iloilo City Tourist Spots

6. Molo Church & Molo District

Molo Church in Molo, Iloilo City, Philippines

Location : Molo District, Iloilo City . Save on Google Maps .

Molo Plaza is the central landmark of Molo, one of the seven districts of Iloilo City. This area is where you can find many of the city’s iconic tourist spots including Molo Church and Molo Mansion. The district is also the birthplace of Pancit Molo (a popular Filipino wonton soup dish). Order a hot bowl of Kap Ising’s signature Pancit Molo at the tiny cafe at the plaza. Molo Church (St. Anne Parish Church) dominates the district’s skyline with its towering bell tower and signature red spires. Constructed in 1831, this Neo-Gothic colonial church is known as the “feminist church” because of the all-women ensemble of saints represented in 16 statues perched on the aisle pillars. The Molo Mansion is one of Iloilo City’s finest old homes. It was built in the 1920s and was reopened as a tourist spot and pasalubong store by SM’s Kultura.

7. Jaro Cathedral & Jaro District

Jaro Cathedral in Iloilo City, Philippines

Location : Jaro Disitrct, Iloilo City . Save on Google Maps .

Constructed in 1874, the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral is the first cathedral in Panay Island and an important pilgrimage site among devotees of the miraculous Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria. Her statue, perched atop the façade of the cathedral, was canonically crowned by a Pope and Saint John Paul II. The bell tower is located across a busy street from the church, which makes it distinct from other churches in Iloilo. Another feature of the church is its all-male ensemble of saints placed on the main pillars, except for the Virgin’s icon. The arrangement is in response to Molo Church’s all-female theme. The Candelaria’s feast is celebrated every 2nd of February, which draws a huge crowd of devotees.

8. Iloilo River Esplanade

Location : Iloilo River, Iloilo City . Save on Google Maps .

The Iloilo River Esplanade is the Philippines’ longest linear park. This beautifully landscaped riverside park is a popular tourist spot where visitors can appreciate peaceful views along the Iloilo River. The best time to go is during the early morning and late afternoon hours when the sun is low and the sky is filled with a golden glow. Locals usually head out to the esplanade around this time for a hearty jog or bike. Muelle Deli & many other riverside cafes/restaurants offer a place to chill & have a fine meal while enjoying the scenery.

9. Calle Real & Downtown Iloilo

Calle Real in Iloilo City Proper, Philippines

Location : Iloilo City Proper, Iloilo City . Save on Google Maps .

Take a walk down memory lane in Iloilo City’s old downtown & heritage district. Calle Real (Royal Street in Spanish) served as the city’s main street from the Spanish-colonial Era to around the early 1990s. Start with a tour of the Museum of Philippine Economic History, which shares the history of economic history of the country as well Iloilo’s past as a prosperous port city. With its naturally-protected harbor and river wharf, the city developed as the center of commerce south of Manila during the sugar boom years. Take a photo stop along J.M. Basa Street, where many historic buildings still stand. Have a taste of the famous Queen Siopao at Roberto’s while you’re there! At the Iloilo Provincial Capitol complex, you’ll find the Museo Iloilo and the Western Visayas Regional Museum.

10. La Paz Batchoy & La Paz Market

La Paz Batchoy at La Paz Market in Iloilo City, Philippines

Location : 18 Huervana St, La Paz, Iloilo City, 5000 Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

La Paz Batchoy (noodle soup) is famous all over the Philippines & it originated in La Paz district of Iloilo City. There’s no better place to get a steaming bowl of La Paz Batchoy than at the La Paz Public Market. If you want to taste more of the local flavours try the halo-halo stalls, also found at the market, and Madge Cafe, which serves traditional local coffee.

11. Camiña Balay Nga Bato

Camiña Balay Nga Bato in Iloilo City, Philippines

Location : Near Villa Arevalo Plaza, Osmeña St., Villa Arevalo District, Iloilo City . Save on Google Maps .

Iloilo is famous for its grand colonial-era mansions and ancestral houses. If you’re interested to experience how the prominent Ilonggos lived in the past, Camiña Balay nga Bato is one of the best places to go. Built in the 1860s, it is an ancestral house of the Avanceña clan. Don’t leave without trying their signature Tsokolate and Pancit Molo.

Northern Iloilo Tourist Spots

12. Gigantes Islands

Tangke Lagoon in Gigantes Sur Island, Carles, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Carles, Northern Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

Gigantes is a group of around 10 islands sprinkled across the sparkling seas off the northernmost coast of Iloilo. This island chain is a paradise for nature lovers seeking a beach destination with a rustic vibe & not yet highly commercialized. Island hopping is the most popular activity. Follow the short trail up the rocks at Cabugao Gamay Island for an amazing 360-degree view overlooking the pristine white sand beach and the Visayan Sea Gigantes Sur Island (South Gigantes) is home to Tangke, an enchanting hidden saltwater lagoon, and Antonia White Sand Beach where you can have your picnic lunch of fresh seafood. Make sure to get your fill of scallops, which is abundant in Gigantes and sold very cheap. Gigantes Norte Island (North Gigantes) is an interesting place to see as well. Explore the Spanish-colonial era lighthouse and the not-so-frequently visited Bakwitan Cave. According to local lore, coffins containing oversized human bones were found in this cave, the discovery of which led to the name Islas de Gigantes (literally, the “islands of giants”).

How to go :

The Gigantes Islands is best reached by boat from Bancal Port in Carles town. The sea journey from Bancal Port to Gigantes is around 1.5 to 2 hours. Travel time by car from Iloilo City to Bancal Port is 3 – 3.5 hours.

See rates & book online

13. Sicogon Island

Tumaquin Island and Brgy. Buaya Beach in Sicogon Island, Carles, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Carles, northern Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

Sicogon is one of the many beautiful islands of northern Iloilo. It is blessed with crystal clear waters and long stretches of white sand beach lined with coconut trees. Sicogon Island is being developed by Ayala Land as a world-class tourism estate. The company operates two high-end properties, namely Balay Kogon and Huni Resorts. Mt. Opao, recognizably crowned by a bare rock summit, is the highest point of Sicogon. The summit is accessible by trekking and on the summit, the entire coastline that surrounds the island. Sicogon Island is located south of the Gigantes Islands. The boat journey between Sicogon and Gigantes takes around 1 hour.

Sicogon Resort and Hotels

Huni resort sicogon.

Book room discounts

14. Concepcion Islands

Malangabang Island & Pan de Azucar view in Concepcion, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Concepcion, northern Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

Farther south of Gigantes Islands and Sicogon awaits another tropical paradise. The Concepcion group of islands offers one of the most scenic seascapes in the whole Province of Iloilo. Mount Pan de Azucar, named because of its resemblance to Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), is the highest point and island chain’s best known landmark. Island hopping day tours and overnight trips can easily be arranged from the municipal tourism office at the mainland. Some of the best spots to visit here include Bulubadiangan Sandbar Island, Agho Island, Badiango Island Resort on Danao-Danao Island, Lumpatan Rock Formation on Pan de Azucar Island, Bago Sipol Beach Resort (Chico Island), Malangabang Sandbar, and Balas Kayo Beach on Malangabang Island.

15. Damires Hills Farm Resort

Damires Hills in Janiuay, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Janiuay, central Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

Spend a day of pampering in the midst of nature at Damires Hills, one of my favorite places in Iloilo! Located in the hilly countrysides of Janiuay town, this sprawling farm resort is a must-visit for nature lovers. A highlight of Damires Hills is its gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the lush natural landscape and terraced rice fields. Experience the 2-hour Hilot sa Ilaya traditional signature massage & other natural spa treatments by trained Ilonggo manghihilots. Balay Uma, the resort’s in-house restaurant serves delicious Filipino-Ilonggo comfort food. Damires Hills is also popular for its organic farm tour, ATV rides, canopy walk, zipline, and the Bahay-Kubo inspired cottages.

Damires Hills Resort

Southern Iloilo Tourist Spots

16. Miagao Church & Miagao town

Miagao Church in Miagao, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Miagao, southern Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

Iloilo flourished during the Spanish-colonial era. This is evident in the exquisite centuries-old churches dotted across the province. Along the Iloilo’s southern coast, the well-preserved Miagao Church stands magnificently as one of the Philippines’ prized architectural gems. The highlight of the Miagao Church is the artistic sculptural relief carved on its facade, which exemplifies the unique blending of Western styles with native motifs. In 1993, the church was included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. When in Southern Iloilo, you can also visit other interesting attractions like the Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort, San Joaquin Cemetery, San Joaquin Church, San Joaquin Pebble Beaches, Guimbal Church, Tigbauan Church & more.

17. Garin Farm

Location : San Joaquin, Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

Gardin Farm Resort

18. San Joaquin Cemetery & San Joaquin town

San Joaquin Cemetery in San Joaquin, Iloilo, Philippines

Central Iloilo Tourist Spots

Central iloilo tours.

Iloilo Farm Agricultural Day Tour

19. Bucari & Leon

Bucari in Leon, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Leon, central Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

Breathe the fresh mountain air and relish the cool climate in the summer capital of Iloilo. Located in the mountainous area of Leon, Bucari is known for its verdant pine forest and panoramic vistas overlooking terraced vegetable farms, lush mountains, and even a glimpse of Iloilo City on a clear day. A hiking trail from Brgy. Camandag follows the river to Imoy Falls. The short cascade drops into a small natural pool that is perfect for swimming.

20. Tubungan Mountain View

Baldan View in Tubungan, Iloilo, Philippines

Location : Tubungan, southcentral Iloilo . Save on Google Maps .

Tubungan is another beautiful highland destination in Iloilo. It has recently become quite popular among local tourists after the construction of good roads made it more accessible. Popular spots to see in Tubungan include the Baldan Viewdeck, Bato Sumpit falls & Mt. Lingguhob.

21. Igbaras Waterfalls & Hiking Trails

Home to Mt. Napulak, the iconic “nipple top” mountain, Igbaras is one of Iloilo’s most popular hiking destinations. There are many waterfalls to see along the trails including Nadsadjan Falls and Guiritsan Falls. If you are lucky, you might even stumble upon a rare Rafflesia (among the world’s largest flowers) blooming along the mountain slopes.

Beyond Iloilo

White Beach in Boracay Island, Aklan, Philippines

Location : Western Visayas region

Located off the northwestern tip of Panay Island, Boracay Island is the Philippines’ top beach destination, home to 4-kilometer White Beach. From Iloilo City, the land trip to Caticlan Port takes around 5 hours. Boracay Island is a short 10 to 15-minute ferry ride away from Caticlan.

Boracay Travel Essentials

Top discounts

Sunset Paraw Sailing in Boracay

Island Hopping in Boracay

Caticlan Airport-Boracay Hotel Shared Transfers – Shuttle+Ferry Ticket

See more : Boracay travel tips

Bacolod City & Negros Occidental

Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Location : Negros Occidental, Western Visayas region

Bacolod, the City of Smiles and gateway to Negros Occidental province, is known as Iloilo’s twin city because of the close social and economic ties shared between the two Western Visayas cities. Travel time by fast craft ferry from Iloilo to Bacolod is 1 hour and 40 minutes approx. This ferry route is one of the busiest in the entire country.

Bacolod & Negros Occidental Travel Essentials

Bacolod-Iloilo OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Mambukal Mountain Resort Day Tour

Campuestohan Highland Resort Experience

See more : Bacolod City & Negros Occidental travel tips

Capiz & Roxas City

The Ruins of Alcatraz in Roxas City, Capiz, Philippines

Location : Panay Island, Western Visayas region . Save on Google Maps .

Capiz province and its capital, Roxas City, is known as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines. The land journey from Iloilo City to Roxas City takes around 2 hours.

Roxas City & Capiz Travel Essentials

See more : Capiz & Roxas City travel tips

Aklan & Kalibo

Marcos at Hinugtan Beach, in Buruanga, Aklan, Philippines

Discover Aklan beyond Boracay Island. Kalibo, the provincial capital can be reached from Iloilo City on a 3-hour land trip.

Aklan Travel Essentials

See more : Aklan & Kalibo travel tips

The neighboring province of Antique, the land ‘Where the Mountains Meet the Sea”, is a worthwhile place to go for nature lovers. Travel time by car from Iloilo City to San Jose, the capital town of Antique, takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Antique Travel Essentials

See more : Antique travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Iloilo that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Iloilo

Iloilo tourist spots, things to do in Iloilo, where to go in Iloilo & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Iloilo

How much does it cost to travel to Iloilo? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Iloilo

Click below & search recommended Iloilo hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

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Iloilo City Visitors Guide

This brief guide to Iloilo City will let you know how to get there, what to do, eat, and drink, where to stay, and must-see spots.

ABOUT SEE & DO EAT & DRINK STAY BUDGET ADVICE

The capital of the province of Iloilo and the regional center of the Western Visayas Region , Iloilo City is an interesting place to explore especially if you are after delectable cuisines as well as arts, heritage and culture.  Various kinds of businesses and residential buildings are popping all over the city and even the outskirts therefore making it a great place to hunt for a job and eventually retire.  Additionally, the city is a jump off point to some of the best beaches and islands in the province and region including Isla de Gigantes, Boracay Island , and of course the province of Guimaras which is also known for its beautiful beaches and sweet mangoes.

To avoid confusion, understand that this guide focuses on Iloilo City alone, not the whole Iloilo province.

Best Time to Visit

It’s best to visit the Philippines during the dry season .  Dry season in the Philippines spans from November through April .  These are the summer months in this country.

Be aware that temperatures and humidity levels are particularly high in April and May .

The best time to be a beach bum and explore the islands is from March to May.

TIP:  This guide recommends that booking for Iloilo City summer trips should be done as early as possible, at least a month before your travel dates, since resorts get fully booked early.

The period from June to October is the rainy (wet) season and is best avoided due to the high possibility of typhoons. The typhoons can not only be destructive, but most tours and activities are cancelled under such circumstances.  Transportation via plane and boat is also seriously impacted as well.  This happens frequently so beware!

This guide recommends traveling to Iloilo City in April-May or in November-December , just before and just after the rainy season. This will likely bring fewer crowds, yet pleasant weather, and is also a great time to score a travel deal.

Getting Here

There are many ways to get here depending on your starting point. This guide recommends using the following online tools to identify all the available options and cost for each while in Iloilo City:  Rome2Rio and PHBUS . The following are the major ports of entry for this destination.

Iloilo Airport

BUS TERMINAL

Iloilo Bus Terminals

Iloilo Seaport

Getting Around

The following are the modes of transportation available in Iloilo City …

Car for Hire

Motorcycles

Ride-Sharing

SEE & DO

The following is your guide to places to see and activities to enjoy while in Iloilo City.

1 | Wander around Calle Real Heritage Zone

If Manila has Escolta, Iloilo City has Calle Real.  It is an old business district that boasts of Spanish and American era structures with neoclassical, beaux-arts, and art deco style.  While it’s no longer the area people, particularly the new generation, favored when it comes to shopping or dining, efforts have been done by the government and other concerned groups to preserve and restore the historic buildings.  Big events such as the Dinagyang Festival highlights take place in this area.

2 | See all the historical churches

Being one of the oldest cities in the country, Iloilo City is home to old churches built as early as 1600s.  San Jose Church across Plaza Libertad in the city proper with its Byzantine Neo-classic design is the oldest.  Molo Church, known as a feminist church due to all the female saints standing on each pillar, features Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles.  While Jaro Cathedral, the national shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, is of Romanesque Revival style.  The opposite of Molo Church, Jaro Cathedral has all male saints standing on each pillar.

3 | Walk along Iloilo Esplanade

The Iloilo River used to be a squatters area until it was rehabilitated and opened in 2012. Now, not only it is free of illegal settlers but it also has become a favorite park and premier tourist attraction in the city.  Originally only 1.2 kilometers in length, it now measures 10 kilometers making it the longest linear park in the country.  The landmark I am ILOILO standee is found in Esplanade 1 near the Carpenter Bridge.

4 | Visit heritage houses and mansions

There are over 200 mansions in the city and around 30 of which are grand and built by sugar barons and elite families during the Spanish and American colonial era.  Considering the number of mansions, the city earned the moniker City of Mansions with Nelly Garden (also known as Lopez Mansion) as the most grandiose and considered the Queen of all Heritage Houses in Iloilo .  Several of the mansions and houses have been converted into museums and shops such as Molo Mansion (also called Yusay-Consing Mansion), Casa Mariquit, Lizares Mansion (now Angelicum School Iloilo), and Camiña Balay nga Bato among others.

5 | Go on a food tour

Iloilo may not be the Culinary Capital of the Philippines but a few dishes originated in the city have gained national popularity.  La Paz Batchoy, named after its birthplace La Paz, is one of the country’s most popular noodle soup dishes.  Famous batchoy houses in the city include Ted’s, Deco’s, and Netong’s.  Other local dishes to try are pancit molo, KBL (kadios, baboy, langka), and chicken binakol.  Also, don’t miss seafoods and Ilonggo sweets and desserts such as biscocho, barquillos, pinasugbo, baye-baye, and bandi.

6 | Go inside museums and art galleries

With its other moniker as Museum City of the Philippines , Iloilo City has a number of museums and art galleries with focus that ranges from history, culture, science, and contemporary art.  The National Museum of the Philippines has its Western Visayas Regional Museum and a satellite office for Western Visayas housed as the restored former Iloilo Rehabilitation Center and old Jaro Municipal Hall, respectively.  Other museums and galleries to consider are Museo Iloilo, Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art, UPV Art Gallery, Henry Luce III Library (Central Philippines University Library), and University of San Agustin Museum among others.

7 | Explore the city in a bicycle

Iloilo City is one of the few cities in the country known to be bike-friendly.  After all, it has a network of nearly 100 kilometers of bike lanes and even earned the reputation as the Bicycling Capital of the Philippines.  You can find bike rentals in the city, particularly in the Diversion Road (now Sen. Benigno Aquino Avenue) area.

8 | Witness the events and festivals

In addition to the famous Dinagyang Festival every January, there are a few more events and festivals to watch out for in the city.  Fiesta de Candelaria, also known as Jaro Fiesta, is one of the largest Philippine marian festivities.  Schools in Jaro and nearby areas even declare holiday since roads are closed to accommodate the day’s activities.  Other events to look forward to in the city include Paraw Regatta, the oldest traditional boat sailing event in Asia, the annual Chinese New Year, the largest Chinese New Year outside Binondo, Manila , and the Iloilo Bike Festival.

9 | Side trip destinations

Considering that Iloilo City is the regional center of Western Visayas, it is also a good jump off point to neighboring towns and provinces.  From the city, you can take a 15-minute boat ride to the province of Guimaras.  You can also take a bus ride to Antique , Roxas, and Aklan where the world famous Boracay is located.  Isla de Gigantes is located in Carles in the province of Iloilo so a trip there isn’t far off.

NOTE: The Dinagyang Festival occurs annually in Iloilo City every 4th Sunday of January. Paraw Regatta is also a festival in Arevalo (city’s district) and celebrated every February.

EAT & DRINK

The following is your guide to the flavorful food to enjoy and restaurants to try while in Iloilo City.

1 | Bourbon Street

Bourbon Street is the go-to place for good old American style barbecue ribs.  Located at Smallville Complex, one of the nightlife spots in the city, Bourbon Street boasts of its real American Bourbon BBQ ribs, Square Mushroom Pizza, and Cheeseburger.  The price range is a bit high for some but the quality of food is worth it.

2 | Breakthrough Restaurant Iloilo

Satisfy your seafood cravings at Breakthrough Restaurant.  At the restaurant, you get to enjoy them fresh and even have the chance to choose from the live seafood on display in the aquariums and have them cooked the way you want it.  Their best sellers include baked scallops and oysters, kinilaw (ceviche), spicy crabs, and of course grilled fish.  The restaurant is located along Villa Beach in Arevalo district but it has a branch in Plazuela Iloilo called Ponsyon by Breakthrough.

Deco’s is one of the famous batchoy houses in the city.  You can find a branch in almost every mall and business district in the city therefore making it convenient for everyone to enjoy the famous noodle soup.  Their first restaurant which is operating up to this day is located in La Paz Market, the place where the dish originated.

4 | DoVa Brunch Cafe

With its elegant and cozy ambience, DoVa Brunch Cafe is more than just brunch or waffles, bacon, and fresh salad.  You’d get to enjoy other offerings such as pizza, pasta, back ribs, pan seared salmon, and others.  The price is a bit higher but considering its generous servings, the quality of food, good service, and great ambience, the place is surely worth it.

5 | Madge Café

Popular coffee chains such as Starbucks and Coffeebreak may be popping in the city but Madge Café remains to be a favorite among locals including some big names in the area such as politicians and media personalities.  It is located in La Paz market where it has been standing since its early days.  The cafe is known for its native Arabica coffee brewed traditionally using a coffee pot and a strainer.  With coffee which costs less than $1 USD a cup and friendly atmosphere, Madge Café is a must-visit for those who love authentic and great coffee.

6 | Netong’s Original Special La Paz Batchoy

Netong’s is one of the pioneers and most recommended in the savory world of batchoy.  Like Deco’s, it’s first eatery located in La Paz still operates up to this day however it has opened branches in newer business areas and more convenient locations such as Atria Park in Mandurriao.  Your Iloilo food tour isn’t complete without a trip to Netong’s so make sure to drop by next time you’re in the city.

This restaurant overlooking Iloilo River and Iloilo Esplanade is a great spot in the city to enjoy fresh seafoods and various Ilonggo dishes with a twist.  People rave about their native chicken adobo and binakol, pomelo balingon salad, and sisig.  The restaurant is quite large and offers a lovely view of the area from the second floor.  While the price is a bit higher for local standards, the quality of food along with great service is a great value for money.

8 | Roberto’s

Located in Calle Real, Roberto’s is already an icon of Iloilo.  It’s best known for tasty siopao oozing with filling in four variants; regular (roberto), jumbo (Chinese sausage, chicken pork adobo and egg), queen (bacon, Chinese sausage, chicken pork adobo and egg), and king (ham, Chinese sausage, chicken pork adobo and egg).  Aside from siopao, their lumpiang shanghai, lomi, pancit canton, and sotanghon guisado are good too.  The space is really small and is always full but it’s worth it.

9 | Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafoods

The top restaurant in the city based on reviews, Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafoods was made famous by their litson manok (roasted native chicken) although their menu now includes other chicken dishes, grilled and steamed seafood, ceviche (kinilaw), and pork dishes.  They take pride in using fresh and basic local ingredients such as local lime, coconut vinegar, and other spices to achieve that signature flavor.  The restaurant started out with only three tables in the 1970s but now has two branches in Atria Park and near the Iloilo Airport.

10 | The Mango Tree

Located in the less busy part of Mandurriao district, The Mango Tree is known for its elegant and cozy ambience which offers both indoor and al fresco dining under a mango tree where the restaurant got its name from.  The restaurant has wooden interiors and warm lighting which makes it a lovely spot for romantic dinners.  Serving good foods with reasonable prices, The Mango Tree is also a popular venue for parties such as birthdays and weddings.  Must try dishes include chop suey, pepper steak, seafood paella, and sizzling bulalo.

KNOWN FOR: La Paz Batchoy, a noodle soup composed of round noodles, meat stock, sliced pork, pig innards, topped with garlic bits, crushed pork cracklings (chicharon) and spring onions.

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Where to stay.

There are many different types of accommodations available in this destination ranging from hostels to luxurious resorts. The following is your guide to our top choices for each range in Iloilo City.

1 | Diversion 21 Hotel (Budget)

2 | seda atria (mid-range), 3 | richmonde hotel iloilo (luxury | resort).

This guide recommends using the following sites to conduct research online of where to stay in Iloilo City or for a specific destination:

Book your room with these trusted online booking sites.  Booking online in the Philippines almost always guarantees the best price and a room when you arrive.  We use these sites frequently to get the best prices and enjoy convenient bookings. Click each of the buttons below to find the best place for you at the lowest rates:

TIP: Diversion 21 Hotel is best property to experience this destination.

Book Online & Save Money

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Suggested Budget

Use the chart below to get an idea of how much to budget daily.  Actual amounts will depend on YOUR travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages … some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less. Prices are in USD.

Travel Costs

Accommodation.

A bed in a  hostel  dorm costs from 350 PHP ($7 USD), but smaller dorms can cost from 500 PHP ($10 USD).  For a private double, prices start around 700 PHP ($14 USD).

Most  budget hotels  begin at 700 PHP ($14 USD) per night for a double room and usually include free wifi and breakfast.  For  a three-star hotel , prices begin around 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) per night.    AirBnB  is also widespread throughout the country, with private rooms starting from as little as 500 PHP ($10 USD) per night.  For entire apartments, expect to pay at least 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) per night.

Resorts and luxury accommodations  vary greatly from 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) to 5,000+ PHP ($100+ USD).  However, there are some really nice resorts and luxury accommodations which are surprisingly affordable.

We use and recommend booking online to save money using  HostelWorld ,  Agoda ,  Booking.com , and  AirBnB . 

Local food is extremely cheap, with street food costing under 50 PHP ($1USD).  For an inexpensive meal at a local restaurant, prices start around 100 PHP ($2 USD).  For a meal at a mid-range restaurant with drinks and table service, expect to pay from 200 PHP ($4 USD).  Knowing that their target customers are primarily tourists, Western food venues can be pricey compared to Filipino food.  Also, some of the ingredients need to be imported, which contributes to the higher cost. Western food (burgers, pizza, pasta, etc.) is much more expensive but is still relatively affordable at around 200 PHP ($4 USD) for a meal and drink.

Fast food like McDonalds will cost around 200 PHP ($4 USD).  A beer at the bar will cost around 50-100 PHP ($1–2 USD).

A week’s worth of groceries will cost between 300-600 PHP ($6-12 USD) per person.  However, food in this country is so inexpensive, and kitchens & refrigerators are hard to come by, I don’t recommend cooking your meals here since there is plenty of delicious street food to eat at very cheap prices. You won’t make it as good as they do and the food is too delicious to miss!

Transportation

There are many modes of transportation available in the Philippines and each varies greatly. 

Public Transportation is cheap.  Bus services on the islands are inexpensive.  Local buses (called jeepneys) are the most common type of transportation in towns and cities. The fare is usually between 7-25 PHP ($.20–.50 USD).

On islands without a bus system, a taxi or tricycle is the only form of transport with fares starting at 50-500 PHP ($1-$10) USD for short trips. 

Taxis are everywhere, and they’re very cheap.  Most fares shouldn’t cost you more than 500 PHP ($10 USD) around town.  

To get between islands, you’ll need to take a boat or to fly.  There are ferries that connect the island together since they aren’t too far apart but, generally speaking, flights are the most realistic option. 

Flights between islands usually cost about 2,000-3500 PHP ($40-70 USD).  However, this isn’t the cheapest way to travel.  It’s only recommended if you have limited time. 

We recommend booking online to save money using:  Skyscanner ,  momondo ,  Kayak ,  kiwi.com .

Attractions & Activities

Most attractions and activities in the Philippines are pretty cheap. Most attractions throughout the area are FREE to enter, though some of the more well known and popular ones cost 5-100 PHP ($.10-$2 USD) to enter. 

Depending on the activity, most day tours only cost around 1,000-1,500 PHP ($20-30 USD), oftentimes less.  You have more bargaining power if you go with a group. If you are expecting to do some climbing, remember to pack some warm layers. It gets cold at the top!  

Other activities such as Island Hopping, scuba diving, helmet diving, swimming with whale sharks, jungle trekking, canyoning, ATVs, jet skis, wakeboarding, cruises, parasailing, horseback riding, cultural experiences, and tours can cost as much as 1,250-5,000+ PHP ($25-100+ USD).

The Philippines is one of the least expensive places to learn how to scuba dive. Learning to scuba dive usually costs about 15,000-20,000 PHP ($300-400 USD), but often includes FREE accommodation for the duration of the course, which lasts three or four days.

Always book your tours and activities when you arrive.  Stick to travel agents who are selling on the ground. If a travel agent won’t negotiate with you, move on to the next until you find one that will.  Booking tours online is almost always more expensive. 

Typical Costs in Iloilo City in 2023 :

• Hostel Dorm Bed: 250-350 PHP ($5–7 USD) night
• Budget Hotel:  700 PHP ($14 USD) night
• Mid-Range Hotel:   1500 PHP ($31 USD) night
• Street Food: 50-150 PHP ($1–3 USD) meal
• Restaurant Meals: 200-300 PHP ($4–6 USD) meal
• Local Beer: 50-100 PHP ($1–2 USD) bottle
• 1.5L Bottle of Water: 38 PHP ($.75 USD) bottle
• Jeepney Ride: 7-25 PHP ($.20–.50 USD) ride
• Tricycle Ride:   20-100 PHP ($.5-2 USD) ride
• Taxi: 75-500 PHP ($1.50-10 USD) ride – use GrabTaxi app
• Long-Distance Bus Ride: 400-500 PHP ($8–10 USD) ride
• Public Ferry Ride: 200-300 PHP ($4–6 USD) ride
• Domestic Flight: 2,000-3,500 PHP ($40–70 USD) flight
• Island-Hopping: 1,000-1,500 PHP ($20-30 USD) trip

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The following is some of our best advice on traveling to Iloilo City.  Learn what you need to know BEFORE you go!

Tips & Hacks

he following are our Top 10 Tips when visiting this destination in the Philippines:

• Be aware that a tourist VISA is only 30 days. You can extend it upon arrival, or within the first 30 days, for an additional 30 days for a fee of approximately 3,000 pesos.
• Don’t buy into the fear factor. The Philippines has an unjustified reputation of being a dangerous place. It’s true there are security guards everywhere, but that is to deter theft.
• Manila is NOT the Philippines. Get outside of the cities to see the real Philippines.
• Don’t over plan. Boats, buses, and even airplane schedules are notoriously unreliable. Be flexible.
• Check the weather. The weather varies greatly throughout the Philippines daily.
• Typhoons can have a huge impact on your plans. Account for this when planning your trip.
• It’s not cool to raise your voice or show outward frustration in public.
• Be polite at all times. Realize that your country’s sense of humor may be different from Filipino humor and take this into account when interacting with Filipinos and while in public places.
• Things move at a slower pace. Accept it … don’t get frustrated … but do account for it.
• Don’t drink the tap water… but stay hydrated! Save money by buying large bottles (6-10 liters) of water and using it to fill your water bottle or hydration bladder in your backpack.

For a complete list of our travel tips & hacks, check out the following guide and be sure to download a FREE copy for yourself.

VIEW & DOWNLOAD : The Ultimate Travel Tips & Hacks Guide for the Philippines

Money Matters

The Philippines has its own currency called the Philippine Peso. Banks, ATMs, and money-changers can be found on the island. If you are exploring the neighboring islands or provinces, make sure to bring enough cash that will last until the next time you get to an ATM or bank since most tours, transportation, and budget accommodations only accept cash.

READ MORE: Money in the Philippines: Everything You Need to Know

Health & Safety

While overall the Philippines is a safe country to visit, as is Iloilo City, you need to use common sense just as you would in any country, especially when traveling, and in a city, town, or area you are unfamiliar with.

Consult your hotel or resort front desk as they are more likely to give you reliable information than a random stranger on the street. Be careful when approaching strangers and selective about who you approach. Always pay attention to your gut feeling and follow it.

READ MORE: How to Avoid Scams & Thieves in the Philippines

There are many things to consider when traveling in order to stay safe … things that we may not be accustomed to during our normal everyday lives. The following are articles about tips on how to stay safe while traveling in the Philippines:

• 6 Common Accidents to Avoid   
• How to Beat the Heat in the Philippines
• Taxi Safety Tips: Dos and Don’ts
• Motorbike Safety Tips
• Beach & Ocean Safety Tips
• Sun Safety Tips   

TIP: The best way to avoid problems and stay safe is to travel with a local resident.

Staying fit & healthy can be challenging when traveling in the Philippines. 

The tropical Philippines climate requires you to prepare for illnesses that you may not normally be accustomed to. 

The following are our Top 10 Tips for Staying Healthy while Traveling in the Philippines:

• Maintain a Balanced Diet
• Stay Hydrated but Only Drink Bottled Water
• Get Plenty of Rest
• Allow Your Body Time to Adjust 
• Keep Active
• Sanitize Often 
• Be Aware of Food Safety Concerns
• Take Your Vitamins
• Practice Safe Sex
• Be Prepared Should You Get Sick

READ MORE: Stay Healthy in the Philippines: How to Avoid Getting Sick

Staying Connected

You need to have a local-based SIM card in order to stay connected when in the Philippines. Network giants such as Globe and Smart have SIM cards you can use to make calls, send text messages, and also to connect to the Internet. A SIM card costs around 50 PHP ($1 USD) and usually comes with a FREE load worth 50 PHP ($1 USD). You can buy a card containing a code you can enter on your phone to replenish your load or buy an electronic load that is available almost anywhere in the city.

While you may not have problems with signal strength when in the city, it is not always the case when on islands or in remote areas of a province.  So when arranging for transportation pick up, say when renting a boat to take you to and pick you up from the island, it would be best that you make it clear what time you need to be picked up before the boatman leaves.

Recommended Travel Apps

Apps for smartphones and tablets can be useful both before you leave and while you’re traveling.  Most are available for iPhones and Android phones.

The following are our Top 10 most useful travel apps on our smartphones when traveling in the Philippines:

• Grab (taxis/ride shares)
• Angkas (motorbike ride-hailing)
• WhatsApp (phone calls)
• Skyscanner (flights)
• Rome2Rio (transportation)
• Agoda (accomodations)
• Booking.com (accomodations)
• AirBnB (accomodations)
• Traveloka (flights, accomodations, activities)
• Klook (attractions & activities )

Be certain to download and set up apps BEFORE leaving on your trip to make certain each is installed and working properly.

For our complete list of travel apps that we use and recommend while traveling in the Philippines, checkout our checklist below.  Download a FREE copy for yourself as a PDF.

READ MORE: The Ultimate List of Travel Apps for the Philippines

Trying to decide what to do when traveling to a destination for the first time can be a bit overwhelming given your lack of familiarity with the place along with all of the available options. 

We’ve created the following itinerary to help simplify the process and ensure that you get the most out of your trip.  Although we provide a 7 day itinerary for this destination, it can always be adjusted to fit the length of your trip.

VIEW : Iloilo City 7-Day Travel Itinerary

Packing Checklist

The secret to a successful and stress-free trip is to start by using a packing list.  This will reduce anxiety from the start and ensure that nothing important is forgotten when packing.   To make this process easy for you, we’ve created a detailed packing list.  Click the link below to download it for FREE now. 

Carrying your checklist with you during your travels can be useful when repacking, by helping to ensure that you do not leave anything behind.

VIEW & DOWNLOAD : Our Ultimate Packing Guide & Checklist

Things to Remember

This guide recommends to take note of the following while traveling in Iloilo City or in the Philippines in general.

There is a nationwide ban which prohibits smoking in public places including indoors, the streets, on sidewalks, in restaurants , and on public transportation, requiring smokers to use designated smoking areas.  Selling tobacco to and purchasing from or for minors is also prohibited. Violators are subject to fines (up to 5,000 PHP | $100 USD) and even 4 months in prison.

The minimum legal drinking age is 18.  Alcohol such as beer and hard drinks can easily be bought in grocery and convenience stores.  The most common alcoholic beverage is beer, generally served cold.  Local alcoholic drinks include tuba (coconut wine which is usually very strong) and potent moonshine-like clear liquors made from sugar or fruit.  Imported beer, wine, and name brand hard alcohol are available but expensive.

Drugs are illegal in the Philippines.  Don’t use, buy, or sell any non-prescription drugs while in the Philippines … not even marijuana.  It is considered an especially heinous crime to buy from, for, or sell drugs to children.  The penalties are severe … up to and including death.

Public nudity is illegal in the Philippines and is not tolerated.  Most locals consider it offensive.  There are laws which prohibit provocative and erotic clothing and swimwear, therefore carefully consider your clothings and swimwear choices to make certain they are not too revealing.

Foreigners & Expats

If you are not a Filipino citizen, remember that you are a guest when visiting this country … be certain to act accordingly.  Respect the people, their customs, and the environment and wlidlife. You can be deported and banned … so behave … but have fun and enjoy all that this wonderful destination has to offer.

READ MORE : Practical Information about the Philippines

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

I always carry a Camelbak Hydration Pack with me when traveling. Not only does it allow me to pack all my daily gear and snacks, but it also has a 3-liter water bladder which holds enough water to get me through the entire day.

Bluetooth Speaker

Compact yet mighty, a bluetooth speaker setup is a breeze, and the sound quality it delivers for its size is nothing short of impressive. Beyond its audio prowess, it boasts exceptional durability, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures.

UV Shirt is an essential when travelling in a tropical country. Providing reliable protection during long hours in the water, not only comfortable but also ensures a secure shield against the elements.

Snorkel Gear

For my island-hopping escapades, a snorkel gear set has become indispensable. Designed to enhance the joy of snorkeling and free diving, each piece ensures comfort and functionality. Together, they create an immersive and enjoyable underwater experience.

Adventure Camera

As a long-time enthusiast of GoPro cameras, I can attest to their user-friendly nature, excellent image stabilization, and impressive footage quality. Waterproof and rugged, the GoPro is my reliable companion for capturing adventures in any environment.

When it comes to beach footwear, aqua shoes offer exceptional support, breathability, and overall comfort. Well-crafted and sturdy, it provides effective protection against rocky terrain, quick drying for added convenience, and easy maintenance. A must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

CLICK FOR MORE TRAVEL GEAR

Cover Photo Credit: Iloilo City Government

Don’t Forget …

Download our free travel guides.

We have dozens of guides to destinations throughout the Philippines. Download your FREE copy for your next trip today.

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About the Author

Patrick is an entrepreneur, digital nomad, explorer, and photographer. Patrick is always in search of fun and adventure. He is well travelled throughout the world, and although location independent, his home base is Phoenix, Arizona in the USA. Patrick loves island lifestyle which is no wonder why he is so interested in spending time in the Philippines with it’s over 7,000 islands. Patrick created this site to share his knowledge of and experiences in the Philippines with Filipinos as well as other foreigners.

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What to do in Iloilo City

Iloilo City is a tourist hub where the best restaurants, museums, hotels, shopping districts, and nightlife in the province await. It is most known for the annual Dinagyang Festival, exquisite heritage sites, deliciously fresh seafood, and signature Ilonggo dishes. The city is also home to many Spanish-colonial churches, grand vintage houses, and old commercial and institutional buildings dating back to its heyday as the "Queen City of the South."

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25 Things To Do in Iloilo City

15 BEST ILOILO TOURIST SPOTS (Heritage & Islands)

With 7,641 islands, the Philippines has always been one of the top countries explored by both local and international tourists. The Pearl of the Orient Seas will never run out of spectacular places to discover and thrilling activities to try on.

Such as Iloilo,   which has been recognized as one of the best vacation spots to visit in the country. The province is known for its authentic and rich history – from historical sites such as Spanish-inspired churches, old houses, European and American-inspired old buildings, to breathtaking islands, lively festivals, and mouthwatering delicacies, Iloilo is a perfect glimpse of the life of the country before and after the 20 th century.

As many tourists would commend, visiting Iloilo is like traveling back in time and being at the present time all at once as you’ll be surrounded by both old and modern infrastructures that depict the evolution of the province over time. If you’re someone keen to discover more about the history of the Philippines or eager to learn more about the culture of the country, Iloilo should be a good starting place to visit.

Here are some of the best places you wouldn’t want to miss on your trip to Iloilo.

Isla de Gigantes

Photo Credit: Panay News

Popularly known as Gigantes, this remote group of islands is worth the five-hour travel time from Iloilo City. Upon reaching the place, you’ll be welcomed by one-of-a-kind sand beaches, spectacular rock formations, and hospitable locals who’ll even share with you mystical tales of the islands.

Aside from its magnificent scenery, the Gigantes has also sumptuous delicacies that will make you crave for more. It’s known for its affordable yet superb seafood. Other activities such as visiting the old lighthouse built during the Spanish era and rock climbing in the Gigantes Sur for the thrill-seekers would give you an awe-inspiring view of the island.

READ THE BLOG POST: Pulupandan Island in Carles, Iloilo

Dinagyang Festival

Credit: EdseastresD600 / Wikipedia Creative Commons

The Dinagyang Festival embodies the Ilonggo community – from their lively and warm traits to their enthralling history and culture. The festival originated as a form of celebration for Senor Santo Niño.

The festival usually starts with festival highlights which include: the Fluvial Procession, it showcases the arrival of the Spaniards in the islands of the Philippines through a boat, followed by Kasadyahan Cultural Parade , a cultural dance parade, and Dinagyang Ati Competition , a warrior-dance themed competition where performers are smeared with dark brown body paint that represents folkloric scenarios. After the festival highlights, there will also be a vigorous and engaging street dance parade.

Miag-ao Church

Credit: Alienscream / Wikipedia Creative Commons

Built around the 1800s, the Miag-ao or Saint Thomas of Villanova Church is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. As one of the earliest and withstanding Baroque Churches in the Philippines, the Miag-ao, as of to date, manages to maintain its sculptural relief carved on its facades.

Most people who have visited the church considers the Miag-ao Church as one of the most important architectural structure of the city and the country for its authentic designs and ornaments. Its unique theme may root from the process it went through on the cultures that have had influence in the province such as Spain, America, and China. Reaching the church should be easy for anyone as it’s only a half-hour ride from Iloilo City.

READ MORE: Dumangas Port: Your Gateway to Western Visayas

Iloilo River Esplanade

Credit: Cpparreno / Wikipedia Creative Commons

Also known as Esplanade, the river is best to be visited during sunrise and sunset as it gives you a surreal feeling when you’re strolling alongside the Iloilo River. You’d also appreciate the initiatives of the locals to preserve the beauty of the river and the city itself.

This should also be a perfect place for athletes and alike to go for a jog while you indulge your eyes with the mesmerizing sceneries. You may also visit the Esplanade with your friends and loved ones while having memorable conversations over lunch or dinner as the place is nearby coffee shops and restaurants.

A favorite spot for photographers, the heritage street, Calle Real, has been shown in several magazines for its Spanish-themed infrastructures. The place once became the central shopping and entertainment district for Spaniards and where most elites used to live during the said era.

Over time, the place still serves as a shopping area for both locals and foreigners. It’s one of the most visited places in Iloilo City as it takes the tourist to a different era and ignites their imagination of the life people used to have in here. It also shows how the Ilonggos are passionate about their roots as they thoroughly preserved the place despite natural calamities it had to endure.

Credit: GarinFarm Pilgrimage Resort Facebook Page

Lies in San Joaquin, Iloilo, the Garin Farm is different from a typical resort – it emphasizes on agriculture while serving its purpose as leisure and religious destination. A trip to this place should fill both your mind and soul as you’ll be introduced to the following activities: insightful practices in agricultures, guide on farming, recreational activities such as zip line, kayak, fishing, golf cart, pedal/rubber boat, and swimming pool, and definitely not the least,  its Pilgrimage Hill that seat at the top of 456-stairs.

A day in the Garin Farm would not be enough to take in all its activities as well as the places you can wander on while gaining a handful of knowledge on protecting and preserving the natural wonders.

Molo Church

Credit: Allan Jay Quesada / Wikipedia Commons

Dubbed as the Feminist Church, the St. Anne “Molo” Church is one of the most popular churches in Iloilo and is also listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. The Gothic-inspired design of the church and its renovations to preserve its original structure made it a frequently visited place in the city.

Upon visiting, the two red spires will instantly catch your attention, as well as the coral rocks and limestones surrounding the church. On the inside, you’ll five gothic-inspired altars made of wood, and the main altar has gold linings making it distinct and different from all churches in Iloilo City.

Museum of Philippine Economic History

Opened on the 1 st quarter of 2019, the Philippine Economic History Museum situated at the Elizalde Building showcases several abacas, pottery, boat-making materials, body ornaments, blacksmithing materials, textiles – a picture of the economic and political history of the Ilonggos.

Aside from being the third museum to open in Iloilo, the Philippine Economic History Museum is the only gallery in the country that shows the economic history of a city. It is fitting for Iloilo City back in the day it served as the central area of retail and trade between the Philippines and other countries such as China, Spain, and Japan.

Jaro Cathedral

Credit: Americana22ount / Wikipedia Creative Commons

Finished around the 1800s, the Jaro or St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church had been restored in the 1900s after it had been hugely affected by an earthquake. Up to this date, the church managed to maintain its Baroque and Gothic design elements.

Among its attractions is the Lady of Candles as it is frequently visited by religious individuals for its acclaimed miraculous deeds. It has a festival, the Jaro Fiesta, that happens every 1 st week of February to commemorate the 400-year-old shrine. As the only cathedral built in Panay, the church is continuously being taken care of by the community as it symbolizes the devotion of the Christian community and the history of the city.

Museum of Contemporary Art

Started in 2018, the Contemporary Art Gallery is a dedication to all contemporary artists in the Philippines. It also features some of the best pieces of foreign modern and contemporary artists.

Situated at the Casa Emperador Building, your eyes will be mesmerized by several artworks – from Hiligaynon that shows the eccentric visions of some artists, to the Philippine flag that was first raised in Santa Barbara, Iloilo, to the artworks of Gerran, a famous artist during the colonial era – the museum will ignite the inner artist in you and at the same time became more appreciative of the life we live in.

Camina Balay nga Bato

This Stone House, standing still after more than 100 years, is preserved by the Camiña family. Found in Osmeña, Villa de Arevalo, anyone is welcome to explore the Balay na Bato from 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM. You may either take a cab or jeepney to reach the place, so visiting it would be easy and convenient for you.

Aside from the house tour, the PHP 150.00 entrance fee includes unlimited hot cocoa, toasted bread, and other food that you may dip in their homemade chocolate. For an additional PHP 50.00, you may also fill your stomach with their delicious pancit molo. Such expenses would also help in the continuous preservation of the ancestral home.

Eat La Paz Batchoy

Credit: Kawaling Pinoy 

You wouldn’t want to leave the Iloilo without trying their signature dish – La Paz Batchoy. This noodle soup that has pork, chicken stock, beef loin, shrimp stock, and pork cracklings can be found in the La Paz Market. Due to its popularity, restaurants such as Ted, Deco, Netong, and Inggo have all made their signature La Paz Batchoy to cater to its demand.

Most people who’ve visited Iloilo would praise how the dish tastes different compared to other places. May it be because of the freshness of ingredients, the place, or the chefs themselves, the Iloilo City serves the La Paz Batchoy you’ll never taste anywhere else in the country.

READ MORE: Cebu Pacific: Manila to Iloilo Flights (Schedule & More)

Nightlife in Smallville Complex

Aside from day time activities of the Iloilo, its nightlife at the Smallville Complex will make your evenings more memorable. This is a favorite hangout place for dining and entertainment.

The Smallville actually refers to the variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants that you may find from Iloilo Business Hotel to the Iloilo River Esplanade. If you’re a night owl and can’t think of anything else to do, you may invite your friends or enjoy some alone time walking alongside the Iloilo River and enjoying the scenery of people having some good times at the Smallville Complex.

Side trip to Guimaras

The Mango Capital of the Philippines, Guimaras , will not only fill your stomach with the sweetest mangoes but will also fill your hearts with the desire to go back to the place over and over again for its several Instagram-worthy sceneries.

The Guimaras has the Guisi Beach and Lighthouse that had been built around the 1800s. It also has the Alubihod Beach where you can do island hopping and sunbathe while lying at the fine white sand. It also the home of the Sand Lorenzo Wind Farm that has 54 windmills. You can also find here the Guinness Book World of Records’ smallest town plaza.

More Iloilo Blog Posts 

• Iloilo to Bacolod by Ferry
• Iloilo to Guimaras by Ferry 
• 2GO Travel: Manila to Iloilo (Schedule, Fare & More)
• OceanJet – Bacolod to Iloilo 
• Best Resorts in Iloilo
• Cheap Hotels in Iloilo

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• Best Beach Resorts in Batangas 

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One comment.

The Iloilo tourist attractions are very underrated & are not promoted properly by the tourism Dept.& by the local government of the province!…The Iloilo city & the province themselves should play aggressively to promote the province to attract more tourists & investors to Iloilo! instead, these local administrators/officials are doing nothing that’s why Cebu, Negris Occ. Davao, Palawan & even Cagayan de Oro are surpassing Iloilo in terms of developments & revenues@ wake up Iloilo!

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ILOILO CITY TRAVEL GUIDE (DIY ITINERARY + BUDGET)

Iloilo City is a lovely city with a fascinating history and enough to offer visitors. However, there are significant disparities between Iloilo City and other places of the Philippines when it comes to online data gathering services.

Thank you so much admin for uploading such amazing content with us your blog is really helpful for me.

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BALI, INDONESIA BACKPACKING TRAVEL GUIDE: 5 DAYS 4 NIGHTS (DIY ITINERARY + BUDGET)

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 1.3 Orientation
• 1.4 Language
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By boat
• 2.4 By passenger van
• 3.1 By taxi
• 3.2 By jeepney
• 3.3 By trisikad or tri-cycle
• 4.1 Religious sites
• 4.2 Historical and cultural sites
• 4.3 Parks and wildlife
• 5.1 Beaches
• 6.1 Markets
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10 Stay healthy

Iloilo City is the provincial capital of Iloilo , on the island of Panay . Iloilo City is fundamentally the economic, cultural, educational and tourist center of Iloilo province.

Understand [ edit ]

It is considered a highly urbanized city with a government separate from the province. Along with nearby Guimaras , the city forms the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras metropolitan area.

Iloilo City lies on the southern coast of Iloilo province,

History [ edit ]

The city's history traces back to pre-colonial times as the center of Madja-as , but written history states that Iloilo originated from the town of Oton , an outpost founded by Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. Raids by Chinese and Moro pirates forced the relocation of the outpost to Villa Rica de Arevalo (present-day Arevalo). During the 1700s, Iloilo boomed through its local sugarcane industry, that leaves its mark on historic estate houses. As the Spanish Empire began to crumble, Visayan revolutionaries during the early days of the Philippine Revolution established the capital of the Federal State of the Visayas in Iloilo City until its dissolution in 1898.

The city fell into the hands of the United States in the aftermath of the Philippine-American War, and it became an important Protestant mission site, with the establishment of Protestant universities, like the Central Philippine University.

Iloilo City was devastated during the Pacific War ; the Central Philippine University was destroyed along with many other parts of the city. The city's postwar rebuilding was slow, followed by Ilonggo emigration, but the entry of major retailers has helped boost its economy.

Climate [ edit ]

Iloilo City has a tropical wet and dry climate, with two distinct seasons: dry season between December and May and wet season between June and November. Average temperatures vary little by time of year; daytime highs are between 29.7 °C (85.5 °F) and 33.1 °C (91.6 °F), and nighttime lows run between 22.7 °C (72.9 °F) and 25.1 °C (77.2 °F). Annual average humidity is 80%, so it can be uncomfortably hot during the day.

Orientation [ edit ]

Iloilo City is divided into 7 districts, namely: City Proper , Jaro , La Paz , Lapuz , Mandurriao , Molo , and Villa Arevalo . With the exception of Lapuz, all the districts are former towns that were merged to form the present city.

Iloilo City Proper hosts heritage buildings from the Spanish and American colonial eras, downtown shopping centers and the ferry terminals, Mandurriao hosts the city's central business district. Jaro has CPU and an old town center, Tagbac has the bus stations for trips from the north, and Molo has the station for buses from Iloilo's south coast and Antique.

Language [ edit ]

The main language spoken in Iloilo and vicinity, as well as in the nearby Island of Guimaras and in the western part of the Island of Negros (including the city of Bacolod ) is Hiligaynon, also known as Ilongo. It is an Austronesian language closely related to the other languages of Panay Island, and less so (say, like English to Dutch or German) to the other languages of the Philippines, such as Cebuano or Tagalog. Many words are shared between the languages of the nation, such as tubig for "water", or oling/uling/oring for "charcoal", as well as numerous Spanish loanwords for e.g. numbers or names of vegetables.

Tagalog is known in Iloilo to some extent, thanks to the national media and migration between islands. As in other parts of the country, the level of English knowledge varies, from the ability to tell prices by market vendors to full fluency among the educated elites.

The signs you'll see in Iloilo are mostly in English. Tagalog may appear in, say, advertisements by national brands or the public service messages by the federal government. Hiligaynon can be seen in some signs, sometimes handwritten, posted by local people and businesses; it is also widely used in personal communications and classified ads on the Internet, e.g. via Facebook, WhatsApp, or Reddit. The local branch of the National Museum (in the former jail downtown) is a rare exception, as a place where you'll see Hiligaynon used in writing in all the explanatory signs (along with English and Tagalog).

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

The terminal fees at Iloilo Airport are ₱200 for domestic flights and ₱700 for international flights, but they are integrated into the ticket price.

By boat [ edit ]

Pump boats are used for traversing the waters between Guimaras and Iloilo City.

• Cokaliong and Trans Asia Shipping Lines sail from Cebu City six times a week with fares from ₱800 (one way).
• Weesam Express
• Fast Cat - from ₱200 one way.
• Milagrosa Shipping Lines , +63 33 337 8627, sail from Cuyo and Puerto Princesa once a week.
• 2GO Travel , +63 2 8528 7000, sail from Manila twice a week and Cagayan de Oro once a week

By bus [ edit ]

Ceres Liner / ☏ +63 910 738 5318 operates the bulk of most routes to Iloilo City, and trips either use the large company-owned Iloilo Northbound Termina (in barangay Tagbac) for routes from the north ( Roxas , Kalibo , Caticlan, Manila ), or the small San Pedro Bus Termina from the west ( San Jose de Buenavista and Antique).

ALPS and Philtranco operate daily overnight trips from Manila to Iloilo City, which take 18 hours at the shortest. These services end at Tagbac Terminal , a terminal not more than a kilometer from the Ceres terminal.

By passenger van [ edit ]

UV Express vans also run between Iloilo and Caticlan, taking 5 hours, and Iloilo and San Jose, taking 2 hours.

Get around [ edit ]

By taxi [ edit ].

The best way to get around town, taxis are available from the bus stations and malls, and you can also hail them from the street. The best service are often offered by Light of Glory or GDR Taxi. They drive fast but as relatively safe as possible.

By jeepney [ edit ]

Jeepneys are widely available, with routes from the bus stations into Mandurriao and the city proper. As of 2022, routes have numbers (e.g. the route connecting the bus stations in Tagbac with the city proper is route 10); minibus-based modern jeepneys are now available, but you can still take the city's trademark passad jeepneys – made from second-hand vehicle parts and are different from the archetypical Manila jeepneys for having the front of a SUV or pickup instead of the distinctive hood based on the US Army jeeps.

Don't take this if you're in a great hurry as the drivers can sometimes decide to wait in the loading areas for 5–10 minutes.

By trisikad or tri-cycle [ edit ]

Tricycles mean a motorbike with a sidecar and a trisikad is its human-powered equivalent using a pedal bike. It's the method of transportation for small, tight roads in barangays and the outskirts of the city. It is more expensive than the jeepneys.

See [ edit ]

Religious sites [ edit ].

• 10.72341 122.55618 1 Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral ( National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles ), Burgos Street . The only Catholic cathedral in Western Visayas, built in 1864. It is the seat of Jaro Archbishopric (comprising the Metropolitan Ecclesiastical Province of Western Visayas). The Cathedral, which is dedicated to St. Elizabeth of Hungary, is famous for its Shrine of Our Lady of Candles which, according to pious tradition has been miraculously growing. The devotees of the Blessed Virgen, who invoke her under this title of "Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria" come in thousands during her feast day, 2 February. The image was canonically crowned by His Holiness Pope John Paul II, during the Roman Ponriff's visit to Jaro in 1981. The miraculous image is the only sacred icon in the Philippines that has been crowned by a pope. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.72439 122.55687 2 Campanario de Jaro ( Jaro Belfry/Jaro Bell Tower ), Plaza Rizal Street . Open 24 hours . One of the few belfries in the country that stands apart from the church. It was constructed by the Spaniards to serve as a watchtower to monitor Muslim invasion from Mindanao. The colonial structure was ruined by an earthquake in 1948 and was restored decades later, in the mid-1990s. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.72376 122.55833 3 Palacio del Arzobispo , Plaza Rizal Street . The official residence of the Archbishop of Jaro. It is located southwest of the Jaro Cathedral and of the Jaro Plaza. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.6859 122.5135 4 Convento de Santo Niño de Arevalo Shrine , Arroyo Street, Villa Arevalo District . Houses the miraculous image of the child Jesus in the Philippines. It is considered as the third oldest image in the country as it dates back to 1581. The church building itself, however, is of a fairly modern design; very bright and airy, with huge ceiling fans, it makes it a pleasure to be inside, and the natural light makes it possible to actually see the details of icons and statues well. The annual parish feasts are throughout January. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.6881 122.5156 5 The Black Cross at Santa Cruz Chapel , Yulo Drive, Villa Arevalo District . a 12 ft (3.7 m) long century-old cross at Santa Cruz Chapel in Villa Rica de Arevalo was used to be the cross enshrined inside the Jesuit chapel located at the same spot it was founded by a local farmer. ( updated Oct 2023 )

• 10.69746 122.54494 6 St. Anne's Church ( Molo Church ), San Pedro Street . This neo-Gothic church, made of coral rock in 1888, is in the Molo district, 3 km (1.9 miles) from the city. The church, which is also referred to as the "Church of Women" because of the statues of women saints that decorate its pillars, was visited by Jose Rizal on his way to exile in Dapitan, Mindanao. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.73232 122.55801 9 Villa Lizares , Dollar Avenue, Tabuc Suba, Jaro . Now the Angelicum School Iloilo, it was once the mansion and villa of the Lizares Family. The Lizares mansion was sold to the Dominican Order of the Philippines in the late 1970s, and is now the seat of Angelicum School Iloilo, a private, Catholic school run by the Order of the Preachers (Dominicans). The Angelicum is a popular landmark visited by local folks every Christmas because of the display of Christmas lights that decorate the Lizares Mansion – its oldest building being the main feature of the panoramic view of the school. ( updated Jan 2016 )

Historical and cultural sites [ edit ]

• 10.68747 122.51613 10 The Crown Monument of Queen Isabela II ( Corona de Reyna Isabel II Monument ), Yulo Drive, Villa Arevalo District . Open 24 hours . On the east side of the plaza. Erected in 1896, the monument holds the replica of the crown given by Queen Isabela II of Spain to Iloilo, which symbolizes the friendship of Spain and Iloilo. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 10.6926 122.5736 11 Plaza Libertad , Zamora Street . Open 24 hours . Also known as Plaza Alfonso XII. The central park of the city proper district of Iloilo. It is a National Historical Institute site for its contribution to the Philippine liberation and freedom. Within the environs of the plaza are the City Government Center of Iloilo, the San Jose de Placer parish church, the heritage buildings such as the Masonic Temple, Lacson Ancestral House, the Botica Lacson ruins, the San Jose Catholic School of the Agustinian Fathers, Iloilo Plaza Hotel Building (now Land Bank of the Philippines), the Campos Building, and nearby the Ker and Company Limited Heritage Building and the Ynchausti Mansion (old COA Building). ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.70355 122.56917 12 Calle Muelle Loney (Iloilo Promenade) . Open 24 hours . The old river port of Iloilo named after British Consul Nicholas Loney, who is considered the father of the Philippine sugar industry. The 3.5 -km old river port is protected by the Island of Guimaras from typhoons and it is one of the safest harbours in the Country. It is also considered as one of the major port in the country having established and opened to international market since 1855. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 10.6941 122.5729 14 Maritime Museum ( NHCP Museum of Philippine Maritime History ) ( ground floor of Iloilo Customs House ), [email protected] . 9AM-4PM, every day except Monday . A national museum. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.6948 122.5705 15 Calle Real ( JM Basa Street ). Open 24 hours . The Iloilo City Heritage and Cultural District old buildings that were constructed in the Commonwealth era in Calle Real, Iznart, Aldeguer and Guanco were declared as a heritage site of Iloilo by the National Historical Institute. Also known as the downtown area of Iloilo City. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.72463 122.55711 18 Jaro Heritage and Cultural District . The old section of the city boasts of the colonial mansions and Hispano-Filipino houses of the Ilonggo sugar barons and elite families during the Spanish regime. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 10.7082 122.5489 20 Don Donato Pison Chimney Monument , Atria Park District, Don Pison Avenue, Mandurriao . Open 24 hours . Free . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 10.71853 122.54823 22 Brandy Museum , Festive Walk Mall, Iloilo Business Park Brgy. Buhang Ralk North . 10AM–8PM . First of its kind, a brandy museum. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.7182 122.54829 23 Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) , Casa de Emperador, Festive Walk Parade, . 10AM–5PM . lloilo museum of contemporary art is an art museum full of avant-garde artistic atmosphere. Compared with ordinary artworks, the works here incorporate the author's ideas to express to the public. ( updated Oct 2023 )

Parks and wildlife [ edit ]

• 10.7027 122.5481 24 Iloilo River Esplanade 1 ( Senator Efrain Treñas Blvd ), Senator Efrain Treñas Blvd . Open 24 hours . A well-landscaped linear park along the banks of the Iloilo River. Free . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 10.6886 122.516 25 Plaza de la Villa Rica de Arevalo ( Villa Arevalo District Plaza ), Sofia Reyes de Veyra Monument, Yulo Dr, Villa Arevalo District . Open 24 hours . 6 km (4 mi) southwest of the city proper. It is 2nd capital of the Alcaldia of Panay and known as the flower garden of Iloilo. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 10.70157 122.56908 26 Fuente Arroyo ( Arroyo Fountain ), Iznart Street . Open 24 hours . A classy and stylish water fountain depicting a neoclassical design situated in front of the Casa Real de Iloilo or the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, also considered as the kilometer zero point of Panay Island. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 10.734 122.5971 27 Iloilo City Wetlands and Bird Sanctuary , Brgy. Hinactacan, La Paz . Open 24 hours . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 10.7187 122.5621 28 Nelly's Garden and Mansion . 8AM–5PM . The Lopez Heritage House or otherwise known as the Nelly's Gardens is a national heritage house built in 1928 at Jaro, Iloilo by an Ilonggo statesman Don Vicente Lopez and his wife, Doña Elena Hofileña. The mansion was named after the couple's eldest daughter, Lilia Lopez y Hofileña. The house is a classic example of Beaux-Arts mansion with its decorative enhancement largely influenced by Western aesthetics evident on its façade. It is designed to portray the extravagant lifestyle of Iloilo's most affluent families during the American period. In March 28, 2004, it was declared as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute. Nelly's Garden and Mansion is considered to be the mother of all ancestral mansions in Western Visayas. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.7293 122.5496 31 Central Philippine University ( CPU ), Lopez Jaena St., Jaro , ☏ +63 33 329 1971 . CPU was founded in 1905 as the Jaro Industrial School by missionaries of the American Baptist Foreign Mission Society. It started as an Elementary Vocational School for poor boys who worked for their board and tuition. The university sits on 24-hectare campus, and was declared a Tourism Site by the Iloilo City Council, this makes CPU as the only university in the Philippines to be declared as a tourism destination by a local government unit. ( updated Oct 2023 )

Do [ edit ]

• 10.7059 122.5509 1 El Dorado Waterpark , Glicerio T. Pison Avenue, Benigno Aquino Drive, Mandurriao ( Smallville ), ☏ +63 33 509-0202 . 8AM-10PM . Pools that are designed for kids and adults. You can bring along food and beverages.  
• 10.7124 122.563 2 Iloilo Sports Complex swimming pool , La Paz . 5AM–8PM . Olympic-size swimming pool. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.7147 122.5449 3 Iloilo Convention Center , Megaworld Boulevard . 9AM–3PM . Convention center is close-by the Festive Walk and K-Town area. The artistic design of the building makes it very noticeable and hard to miss. The frontage is very beautiful and can hold many events local to the city. ( updated Oct 2023 )

Beaches [ edit ]

Beachgoers in the Iloilo area may want to check the tide times for the city's waters. Tides in the area can be quite high, with over 2 m difference between the water levels at the low tide level and the high tide level on the days when the tidal amplitude is the largest (around the new moon and the full moon times). Unlike most of the world, where the tide pattern is semidiurnal (two high tides and two low tides every day), Iloilo's tide pattern is usually diurnal , with just one minimum and one maximum each day.

Unlike cities such as Dumaguete or Sipalay , Iloilo does not have public beaches immediately adjacent to city centers. Nonetheless, most of the sea coast on the city's western outskirts, from Molo to Villa Arevalo to Oton and farther into the western suburbs, is a beach, even though it does not directly face the coastal road. To get from the coastal road to the waterfront, you have 3 options:

• Pay an admission fee at one of the numerous "beach resorts" in any of the seaside barangays of Calumpang, Calaparan, Villa, etc. The fee is typically in the 100-500 pesos range, depending on the resort's level of fanciness, and it entitles you to the use of the showers, toilets, picnic shelters (which are often rented for parties), swimming pools (if available), etc on the resort's property; most importantly, it means that you can now walk through the resort's back gate and into the (actually public) beach. Resorts usually also have restaurants and karaoke ("videoke", pronounced "bijukeh") machines. Some of them close for the night, while others rent basic rooms for overnight stay, from around 1000 pesos and up per night. In this area, "beach resorts" typically don't have their own private beaches; instead, visitors simply walk out through the back gate of the resort's perimeter fence to the public beach. These back gates are usually locked from around 6 pm till around 8 am; these means that if you are desirous of a sunrise swim or a moonlight beach walk, you'd have to walk out the resort's front gate, and then find some other passage from the coastal road to the beach (see below).
• Walk to the beach through one of seaside restaurants, with or without buying any food there. The Breakthrough, in the Villa Arevalo District (at the southern end of Yulo Dr.) is perhaps the most prominent of those.
• Walk to the beach on one of the numerous pedestrian/bike trails that reaches to the beach at the border between two adjacent resorts, or through residential areas.

During the low tide, a wide sandy beach is exposed, making it possible to walk on the beach all the way from Calumpang (just west of Molo) to Oton; one may have to walk quite a ways out to get to the water sufficiently deep to swim. (Fortunately, the sea bottom is mostly sand, not mud or rocks). During the high tide, however, most of the beach is under water, the water practically reaching to some of the fishermen's homes; the swimming depth is much closer to the shore.

The beach, unfortunately, is quite littered in many areas. You'll see many fishing boats on the sand, as well as residents' dogs walking around, who may bark but usually don't attack people.

Events [ edit ]

As with most Philippine city and towns, there are many festivals celebrated in Iloilo City annually. The Dinagyang Festival is the primary and most important festival of the city.

• Dinagyang Festival : January annually. A spectacular festival in honor of the Sto. Nino, also one of the most popular festivals in the Philippines, streets are filled up with people as dancers dance and as music plays, colors and sound of the festival brighten up the atmosphere.
• Feast of the Sto. Nino de Arevalo : January annually. The Feast of the Sto. Nino de Arevalo is a religious fiesta in honor of the 3rd oldest (1581) image of the child Jesus in the Philippines held every 3rd Sunday of January at the district of Villa de Arevalo. A religious procession around the town center is held on the "bisperas ng pista" attended by thousands of the devotees. And on the day of the fiesta, a high mass is celebrated in honor of the Sto. Nino de Arevalo with the Archbishop of Jaro as the main celebrant. Other festivities includes, the coronation of the fiesta queen and fireworks display competition which is being held on the night of the fiesta.
• Feast of Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria : 2 February annually. Jaro's celebration of the Feast of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Our Lady of the Candles), the Patroness of Western Visayas, every February 2. The religious celebration, which is well known in the Philippines and in some parts of Asia, is also an occasion of more secular events like the pageantry of the daughters of the rich Spanish-Filipino families in the District during the coronation of the Jaro Fiesta Queen, and the international cockfighting. Eucharistic celebrations in honor of the miraculous image starts at dawn until noontime to accommodate thousands of devotees that flocked the national shrine. The grand procession follows in the afternoon with the coronation of the fiesta queen in the evening of the fiesta.
• Valentine's Day in the City of Love : 14 February annually. Considered as the second busiest holiday in the City of Love, the Valentine's Day is a favorite event for the Ilonggos to spend the day to eat and dine with their special someone or with the entire members of their family. The highlight of this event is a mass wedding by the City Mayor to hundreds of couples in a civil ceremony. The event is organized by the City Government through the Red Lions and Pag Ibig Fund.
• Paraw Regatta Festival : February annually. The Paraw Regatta is a race among seafarers on colorful sailboats called Paraws (the oldest traditional seacraft in Asia) in the Iloilo Strait between Guimaras Island and the city of Iloilo. The present-day Paraw managed to maintain its original design from the sailboats of the first settlers from Borneo who were in search of a peaceful home in 1212 AD. Surviving centuries, the paraws have become a vital part of the Filipino seafaring life. The first race started in 1973 with the mission to preserve the historic value of the paraws. It is held every 3rd weekend of February at Villa Arevalo District in Iloilo City. The event has grown from being a boat race to a festival with various interesting and exotic activities.

Buy [ edit ]

• 10.70748 122.56685 2 Gaisano Capital City-Iloilo , J C Zulueta & Luna Streets , ☏ +63 323201726 . 9AM-8PM .  
• 10.7076 122.5489 6 Shops at Atria , Ayala Park, Atria, Donato Pison Ave, Mandurriao . 10AM–10PM . ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.70141 122.56808 7 The Atrium Mall , General Luna Street . 7:30AM–7:30PM . ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.6989 122.5662 8 Robinsons Iloilo , Quezon Street . 9AM–9PM . ( updated Oct 2023 )

Markets [ edit ]

For produce, go to any of the city's produce markets, which usually have much better prices than supermarkets. Downtown (aka City Proper) has the Central Market (in the Art Deco building at Rizal St and Iznart St) and Terminal Market (a few blocks to the west, between Rizal St and De Leon St). As of early 2024, both markets buildings are closed for renovation, with the vendors' tables relocated to several blocks of streets around and between the two markets, in a rather chaotic way.

The Jaro Market, just west of Jaro cathedral, is not particularly impressive most of the week, but it expands a lot on the market day (Wednesday), when it occupies an entire street (appropriately named Market St). The market in Oton is pretty good as well. Smaller markets can be found in other neighborhoods as well, e.g. Lapaz Public Market (off Luna St, just north of the Iloilo River brigde), Arevalo Market (south of Villa Arevalo District Plaza), Tagbac Marketplace, etc.

If you're staying at a place with your own kitchen, then, besides several supermarket chains, some specialist groceries may be of interest as well. In particular, Hua Kong in Rizal St downtown sells Chinese basics, such as various kinds of soy sauce and vinegar and loose tea (not tea bags). All About Baking Iloilo (a national chain, with branches downtown and in Jaro) carries various cooking/baking ingredients rarely available in local supermarkets, including some dairy products, cocoa powder, and matcha tea powder.

Eat [ edit ]

Good restaurants in Smallville: Pirate's bar which has a wrecked ship attached to its façade as a design. It's a bit dim inside but it adds to the relaxed atmosphere. They also have a dance club beside the main building. The club has laser lights and great speakers, just be aware that it can get quite congested with cigarette smoke. Annex is for those who love to karaoke.

For local delicacies, you can try the famous biscocho from the aptly names Original Biscocho Haus. There are several branches and stalls around the city, but the main branch is near the Jaro Plaza.

Krua Thai also has some tasty foods. Almost everything on the menu is good and it's a refreshing break from the typical Ilonggo cuisine. A little bit further is Boardwalk which has a few of restaurants. Notably is Paprika where there is almost always a live band performing. They have a selection of sea foods. The B Place is a bar with a relaxing view of the river as well as the cool breeze moving through the place. The food is again typical of bars in this area.

Beside Smallville is Uncle Tom's which have excellent Spareribs, Steaks, Fried Chicken, Baby Backribs and the best of all: Ox Tongue. Their gravy is very tasty and the you can tell that the chicken was well marinated and seasoned. Along the highway you can find Dos Maria's where they serve pizzas that are big; having a diameter of around 20 or more inches. Though the pizza is big the taste is generic and really unsatisfying. Afriques is an Italian themed restaurant with a touch of Ilonggo flavor. They serve a variety of pizza and pasta-type dishes, most of which are extremely delicious. The pizza is tasty but it's crust can be better. Most of the dishes are served in generous portions especially the sauces. They have two locations: one near Plaza Libertad, General Hughes street and the other beside of Hotel del Rio. Ted's Batchoy is arguably the best Batchoy shop in iloilo. Batchoy is a mix of noodles and pork Chicharon along with some spices and a tasty broth. It's very good and filling espcially if you're very hungry. It's one of Iloilo's native dishes.

• 10.72271 122.55718 1 Bavaria German Restaurant & Inn , 113 Seminario Street ( near the Jaro Plaza ), ☏ +63 33 3290078 . Bavaria restaurant has become a popular spot for families and get-togethers. German cuisine; serves real German Weizenbeer and European sauasages. ( updated Oct 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

There are a number of karaoke bars, beer houses and strip clubs in the city, however, these tend to be unsafe for tourists. The safest and cleanest venues to enjoy the city's night life are found in Smallville, near SM City in Mandurriao. There are different bars and restaurants with a wide menu and good drinks to choose from.

• 10.7053 122.5507 1 MO2 Ice Bar , Glicerio T. Pison Ave, Benigno Aquino Drive, Mandurriao ( Smallville Complex ), ☏ +63 33 509-0202 . 5PM–4AM . Billiard hall. Mo2 Ice has dancing and grooving to the speckle of laser lights. Accommodates a variety of music genres. The MO2 annex has a number of family KTV rooms. They have two types of karaoke rooms: the smaller can seat around 2-6 people while the big room can seat 10-15 people withcomfortable couches, good food especially the appetizer when you tie it with the local beer and a vast collection of songs to choose from. Beside The Annex is M02. The bar that launched Smallville. They have drinks and food. Local beer is good while the food is typical of bar food. ( updated Oct 2023 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

• 10.7574 122.5751 1 OYO 562 Northview Inn , Iloilo East Coast - Capiz Road corner 8th Street ( east side of the Hwy to Zarraga, about 5 km out from the centre of Iloilo City ), ☏ +63 33 503-2282 , +63 917 500 7242 , [email protected] . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . A new B&B style of lodgings where the owners have taken a lot of care in selecting furniture, fixtures and fittings. Very clean but a shared shower room/WC with hot water. Rooms are large and nicely furnished. Free (intermittent) Wi-Fi. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.7008 122.5667 2 Red Doorz @ Eros Tavellers Pensionne , #5 General Luna Street , ☏ +63 33 3371359 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . Small a/c single/double rooms with own bathrooms and cable TV. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.7013 122.5649 3 The Family Pension House , #12General Luna Street , ☏ +63 33 3350070 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . Fan rooms with own bathroom. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.69596 122.56668 4 Ongbun Pension House - Iloilo , Ledesma cor. Quezon St . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . A 5-story walkup bulding (no elevator), very centrally located. Fan/AC single/double rooms with bathroom and cable TV. Some of the cheaper rooms may have no windows. Free wifi in all rooms, and free hot drinking water from a dispenser downstairs. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.69483 122.57028 5 Hotel Madia-as , J.M. Basa Street , ☏ +63 33 3372756 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . Fan/AC single/double rooms with bathroom. All rooms have cable TV. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.6942 122.56801 6 Budget Inn Valeria , Calle Weyler , ☏ +63 33-320-6660 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . A/C single/double rooms with own bathrooms and cable TV. WiFi at lobby.  
• 10.70375 122.56774 7 River Queen Hotel , Bonifacio Drive , ☏ +63 33 338-1021 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . Fan rooms with own bathrooms.  
• 10.6973 122.5605 8 88 Plaza Hotel , Delgado Street , ☏ +63 333350353 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . A/C single/double rooms with own bathroom. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.7233 122.5592 9 Queens Pension House , Commission Civil Street , ☏ +63 33 206036 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . A/C double room with own bathroom and cable TV. ( updated Sep 2015 )
• 10.7216 122.5602 10 El Haciendero Private Hotel , #1177 M.Jaime Street . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Oct 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 10.70551 122.55128 11 Mo2 Westown Hotel , Benigno Aquino Avenue, Mandurriao, , ☏ +63 33 509 0202 , [email protected] . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 10.70458 122.55112 12 Smallville 21 Hotel , Smallville Commercial Complex, Diversion Road , ☏ +63 33 501 6821 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . 60 rooms. ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 10.69959 122.55955 13 Highway 21 Hotel , General Luna Street , ☏ +63 33 335 1839 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . From ₱1,500 . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 10.6972 122.5619 14 People's Hotel , Delgado and Fuentes Street , ☏ +63 33 336 1070 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 10.6948 122.5619 15 Eon Centennial Plaza Hotel , Jalandoni Street , ☏ +63 33-337-2277 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 10.6992 122.566 16 Century 21 Hotel , Quezon Street , ☏ +63 33-3358821 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 10.71388 122.55281 18 Injap Tower Hotel , Diversion Rd, Mandurriao , ☏ +63 977 808 8111 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 10.7224 122.56 19 Casa Tentay , 68 Commission Civil Street . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.7221 122.5542 20 PearLi View Hotel , El 98 Street . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.7218 122.5508 21 The B Lifestyle Complex/ Bed and Bath Serviced Suites , Diversion Road . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 10.71891 122.55086 22 RedDoorz Plus @ Taft North Mandurriao , Taft Street . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Oct 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 10.7153 122.5455 25 Richmonde Hotel Iloilo , Megaworld Boulevard corner Enterprise Road Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao , ☏ +63 33-328 7888 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 10.7075 122.5487 26 Seda Atria , Donato Pison Ave, Mandurriao , ☏ +63 33-506 8888 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Stay healthy [ edit ]

• Healthway QualiMed Hospital Iloilo Atria Park District, Mandurriao , www.healthwaymedicalnetwork.com.ph/ , +63335004000
• The Medical City-Iloilo Branch Locsin Street, Molo, www.themedicalcityiloilo.com/ , +63335001000
• Iloilo Mission Hospital Mission Road, Jaro, www.facebook.com/iloilomissionhospital/ , +63333200315
• St. Paul's Hospital General Luna Street, Iloilo City Proper, www.sphiloilo.com/ , +63333372742
• [1] Western Visayas Medical Center . Q. Abeto St, Mandurriao, [dead link] ☏ +63 33-3212841 ,

Cope [ edit ]

• Bureau Of Immigration Iloilo Office . 2nd floor. Customs House Building. Aduana Street.

Go next [ edit ]

• A short ferry ride to the island of Guimaras .
• Ferry to Bacolod or Cebu City or Manila or Palawan .
• Bus or Van to Roxas , Kalibo , Caticlan.
• Bus or Van to San Jose de Buenavista 2½ hours by bus from Iioilo

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ILOILO CITY TRAVEL GUIDE: Travel Requirements, DIY Itinerary, How to Get There and More

Budget travel guide to iloilo city for first-time travelers.

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Iloilo Travel Guide

Table of Contents

I f you are asked about a great city to visit in the Visayas, there is a good chance that the first things that will enter your mind are Cebu City, Iloilo City, and Bacolod City . However, with its huge Airport, impressive townships, and booming economy, Iloilo City is fastly becoming a major business hub in the Visayas. Read more below to know why Iloilo City is worth visiting.

Iloilo City is the economic and cultural center of Panay Island. At several points in history, it acted as the capital of the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. This explains why there are a lot of historic churches and buildings in the city. In fact, it has gained a reputation as an Emerging Museum City because of its heritage structures and art museums.

Iloilo City also has a huge value among religious people. It was one of the first American colonial outposts in the early 1900s and is home to many Protestant congregations. For example, Central Philippine University, the first Baptist church in the country, can be found here. The Jaro Adventist Center, the first organized Adventist church in the Philippines, is also in Iloilo City.

Iloilo is also renowned all over the Philippines for its efforts to be sustainable. The city has many open spaces, gardens, and parks that people can visit. Iloilo City has also been praised for its efforts to have sustainable urban planning and maintain air quality. The gorgeous Iloilo River Esplanade is proof of these efforts, which straddles both sides of the Iloilo River.

In this Travel Guide to Iloilo City Blog, we listed some tips for making your DIY trip to Iloilo. We also included Iloilo City Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there, and more.

Best Time to Visit Iloilo City

If you like it when there are many tourists, January is the busiest time in Iloilo City. This is when the city holds the Dinagyang Festival, one of the most popular tourist events in the Visayas. It is a religious festival though many establishments have co-opted it by holding street parties.

The Paraw Regatta, held every February, also attracts many people worldwide. It is Asia’s oldest traditional boat sailing event, where colorful sailboats dot the Iloilo Strait.

The summer is also a fantastic time to visit Iloilo City. This is due to the city’s proximity to getaway destinations like Guimaras in the south and Carles in the north.

How to Get There

The easiest way to get to Iloilo City is by flight. If you come from Manila, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and Philippine Airlines have flights from NAIA. Iloilo International Airport also has flights to and from Cebu, General Santos City, Davao, Puerto Princesa, and Cagayan de Oro.

For international travelers, there are direct routes to and from Hong Kong and Singapore. Flying time to Iloilo from NAIA in Manila is approximately 55 minutes.

How to get to Iloilo City from Iloilo Airport

The New Iloilo Airport, located in Cabatuan, is 18 kilometers from the city proper and is accessible by jeepney, van, and taxi.

Iloilo City is the province’s port of entry for sea transport, and Iloilo port is just 5 minutes away from the city’s central commercial district. Iloilo City is 20 hours from Manila, sailing 12 times weekly; from Zamboanga City, General Santos City , and Cagayan de Oro City once weekly; Cebu is 12 hours with daily trips. Fastcrafts from Bacolod City take one hour at the most. The Roll-on, Roll-off (RORO) sea and land transport system serves Iloilo-Manila on the Strong Republic Nautical Highway.

Getting Around

It is very easy to get around Iloilo City. Multiple jeepneys roam the roads from one point to another. Just make sure that you ride the right jeepney for your destination. There are also taxi cabs and Grab cars that you can book.

Where to Stay

As a popular tourist destination, there are a lot of accommodation options in Iloilo City. These are three of the best options that you have:

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo

Address: Megaworld Boulevard corner Enterprise Road Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City

[ Check Rates and Availability ]

Located in the heart of Iloilo Business Park, this 5-star hotel is perfect for corporate trips. It has a contemporary design, with incredibly spacious rooms. It has a dining restaurant, a bar lounge, and a swimming pool bar area. There is also a fitness center on the 7th floor.

Diversion 21 Hotel

Address: Benigno Aquino Avenue Diversion Road, Mandurriao, Iloilo City

Room rates start at Php 2,200

Known for its impeccable service, Diversion 21 is an excellent place for young travelers and backpackers. Each room has an in-room safe box, air conditioning, fast Wi-Fi, and a refrigerator. The hotel also has the option to have a massage or a karaoke night for guests.

Injap Tower Hotel

Address: Diversion Rd, Mandurriao, Iloilo City

Room rates start at Php 1,975

Each of the rooms of Injap Tower Hotel with minimalist branding and design in mind. The rooms are air-conditioned, with two beds and fast Wi-Fi. There is also complimentary use of the swimming pool and the Fitness Center. You will also be assured of safety because of the 24-hour security service and responsive housekeeping. Read our Injap Tower Hotel Review .

Also see: Best Hotels in Iloilo City

Where to Eat

Of course, no trip to Iloilo City will ever be complete without a stop at its numerous restaurants. You should not miss La Paz Batchoy and Pancit Molo, local noodle dishes in specialty restaurants in Iloilo City. These three restaurants are among the favorites of tourists:

Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafoods

Location: Oton Blvd, Villa Arevalo District, Iloilo City

Due to its proximity to one of the country’s most productive fishing areas, Iloilo is known for its seafood. Tatoy’s would be an excellent way for you to experience the diverse seafood offerings of the city. Their sisig is also a top choice among customers.

7 Fishes by Coco Veranda

Location: 21 Avenue Place, Diversion Road, Mandurriao, Iloilo City

7 Fishes have become a household name in Iloilo, which is always frequented by businessmen, tourists, and students. You should try the Paella Rice and the Coco Loco Prawns. It is also near the Esplanade and SM City Iloilo, a good option near the downtown area.

Ponsyon by Breakthrough

Address: Benigno Aquino Avenue, Iloilo City

One of Ponsyon’s greatest selling points is the ambiance the restaurant has. It has excellent seafood options, so it has become a favorite of diners. The menu options are also generally pretty cheap.

What to Do and See: Popular Iloilo Tourist Spots

Iloilo is such a large and dynamic city that you have much to do in the area. These are among the things that you can do.

• Walk along the Iloilo River Esplanade during the sunset
• Do a pub crawl in the Smallville Complex
• Church hop in heritage cathedrals
• Iloilo Pasalubong Shopping
• Eat La Paz Batchoy

Also read: Best things to do in Iloilo

Iloilo Travel and Tours

Iloilo city heritage tour.

An introduction to the city, its culture, and urbanity. Visit Museo Iloilo, Calle Real, Plaza Libertad, Fort San Pedro, Jaro, and Molo. Shop for souvenirs at Tinukib Showroom. Visit Jaro’s old colonial houses and cathedral. Drop by the gothic-renaissance church of Molo. See how princely vestments are hand-embroidered at Asilo de Molo.

South Countryside Tour

A scenic trip to Iloilo’s southern countryside, passing the flower gardens of Villa Arevalo, the historic town of Oton, Tigbauan, Guimbal, all the way to Miag-ao. Visit Tigbauan Church with its Latin-American Churrigueresque style, Guimbal’s yellow sandstone church and plaza, and Miag-ao Fortress Church built in 1706 with a unique facade of botanical motifs reminiscent of Aztec art. This church is indeed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Pasalubong Shopping in Iloilo City

Take home famous delicacies like pinasugbo (banana brittle), barquillos (local wafer), and Biscocho (buttered, toasted bread) from Jaro district, hojaldres, banadas, kinihad, among others, are baked and sold fresh at Panaderia de Molo and Biscocho Haus .

Travel Tips

• Iloilo City is walkable, so you might want to bring walking shoes.
• Ilonggos understand English and Filipino well, so do not pressure yourself to learn Hiligaynon.
• The city is food heaven, so do not forget to try their native delicacies.

Iloilo City is a beautiful mix of heritage structures, modern buildings, and magnificent homes. With its storied past and the current boost in its economy, you will surely be able to find something to enjoy in this city.

Have you been to Iloilo City? Help us improve this Travel Guide to Iloilo City Blog by sharing your personal Iloilo City travel tips and recommendations.

Check out our complete list of recommended Hotels and Resorts in Iloilo City, Philippines, via  Agoda , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

• Iloilo’s cultural and art scene thriving in ILOMOCA
• Lunch at Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm Resort in Iloilo
• 6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Iloilo
• DIY Trips: A guide to building your ultimate holiday

Written by Team Out of Town

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3-Days in Iloilo City – Travel Guide: Where to Stay, What to eat and Things to do in the City of Love

Rodel flordeliz.

• February 29, 2020
• No Comments

Located geographically at the very center of the Philippines, Iloilo City is fondly called as the City of Love . And true to what it was coined, Ilonggos can truly be considered as one of the most friendly, loving and soft-spoken people. According to some of the people I have talk to in the place, crime rate here are almost insignificant, making this one of the best places to visit down south.

And early of this year, I was able to come back and visit this awesome place. Though my trip was a bit short, it still gave me that satisfaction because I was able to satisfy my cravings and just gave me a few more reasons to just go back again and visit some of the places I missed in this trip.

In this blog, will be giving you information on some of the places you should not missed if you would be visiting Iloilo city this year.

At my back is the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art

Where to Stay in Iloilo City

There are actually a lot of nice hotels and homestays in Iloilo City. But just like what I have said from my previous travel article, it is always good to find places that are near to some of the establishments you would be visiting, for you can save both time and money from transportation expenses to these sites. In my recent visit, we decided to book a two night stay here at Richmonde Hotel along Megaworld Boulevard in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. The hotel is near to a mall, and a museum we planned visiting. You can check out my review about the hotel here.

Read: Richmonde Hotel Review

Here are some of the other options to check on your visit.

• Days Hotel by Wyndham Iloilo
• Casa La Granja Hotel
• Bearland Paradise Resort
• One Madison Place Tower 1
• Eon Centennial Plaza Hotel

Places to Visit in Iloilo City

How much time is ideally great when visiting Iloilo? Well, It really depends on the things you would be doing. If you just decided to stay and roam around Iloilo City, 2- 3 days would be enough. That length can already be considered a relax tour. But if you would want to do island hoping in Gigantes island, and/or visit the other tourist destinations in other municipality, adding a day or two would really be fine.

Outside the Molo Mansion

Riding jeepneys would be the best way to roam around the city affordably. Taxis are also available. Here are some of the places you can visit in Iloilo City

• Jaro Church and Belfry
• Museo Iloilo
• Molo Mansion
• Molo Plaza & Church
• Casa de Emperador
• Iloilo of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCO)
• Iloilo Esplanade River

One of the art pieces inside Iloilo Museum of Contemporary  Art

One of the newly open mall in Iloilo City

Molo Church and Park

Also Read: Cruising from Manila to Iloilo City

Where to eat in iloilo city.

Iloilo City is one of the best places to do foodtrip for there are a lot of delicious and authentic dishes to try in this place. Of course you should not forget to try the famous Iloilo Special batchoy. Thou some of these places are a bit difficult to find (some are located inside the wet market), checking it on google maps can truly be helpful.

Here are some of the places we visited and tried on our stay.

• Eat Batchoy at Popoy’s Special Batchoy

Puto Calasyaw and Batchoy for the win! 

The good thing about here is, you can ask for a soup refill, which they called Caldo (batchoy soup) without additional payment. Amazing!

• Eat “Pansit Molo”

Another signature yet lesser known Ilonggo soup dish is called the Pansit Molo. Try this one at JD’s Bakeshop which you can easily find one inside SM City Iloilo – Manduriao .

• Biscocho Haus

Of course for pasalubong, never missed to visit Biscocho Haus.

You can also try Siopao in Robertos, Netong’s Batchoy, Tataoys Manukan , as well as the ilongo dish called K.B.L. (short for Kadyos, Baboy, Langka) or also called Kadyos, which is a type of food in red bean , pork and langka.

Places to Visit Outside Iloilo City

Aside from Old Catholic Churches, there are actually a lot of places that you could visit in Iloilo. When I was planning this trip, I was able to list down tons of awesome places to see, but I do know that I couldn’t really squeeze everything in just three days, so we decided to just trim it down and prioritize those that are easier to visit.

The Miagao Church

The Old San Joaquin Church

Miagao is considered as the “ Onion Capital of the Visayas ” and has been a popular destination to many who are fond of seeing Baroque Churches – The Miagao Church, which was included as a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE. Miagao is also where you can find the endemic parasitic plant species called the Rafflesia Speciosa.

The municipality next to Miagao can also offer touristy places like the San Joaquin Church and the now famous Garin Farm .

San Joaquin Cementery

Hablon making in Miagao

Bat Sanctuary in Miagao

How to go to San Joaquin / Miagao?

You can either ride a Bus at the Southwest Bus terminal in Megaworld Boulevard in Mandurriao, Iloilo City or go to Brgy. San Pedro Molo Bus terminal. Look for the Buses heading to Aklan or Antique. This will pass by Miagao and San Joaquin and will take an hour to two-hour bus ride. Bus ride cost Php 88 pesos.

Until our next discovery in the City!

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THE 5 BEST Iloilo City Tours & Excursions

Iloilo city tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Shopping Tours
• Motorcycle Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Iloilo City Tour (Garin Farm, Molo Mansion/Church, Vanishing Mansion)

2. Ilo-ilo Southern Countryside Tour

3. Mysterious Tour Iloilo

4. Pilgrimage Tour In Iloilo

5. Southern Countryside Tour In Iloilo

6. Iloilo Fishing Port Tour and Local Market Food Trip (Fresh from the Sea)

7. Experience Gems in Sibalom National Park (Nature Tour)

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area, private market tour and filipino cooking class in iloilo city.

Bucari Leon (Little Baguio) Tour

Garinfarm Pilgrimage Resort Land Transfer (ROUNDTRIP)

Private filipino cooking class in iloilo city using heirloom recipes.

2 hours Walking Tour in Bacolod

Private, Sustainable Farm-to-Table Cooking Experience in an Organic Beach Resort

Seafood Fiesta Tour In Roxas

• Mysterious Tour Iloilo
• Iloilo Fishing Port Tour and Local Market Food Trip (Fresh from the Sea)
• Ilo-ilo Southern Countryside Tour
• Experience Gems in Sibalom National Park (Nature Tour)
• Iloilo City Tour (Garin Farm, Molo Mansion/Church, Vanishing Mansion)
• Area Spacefinder
• Highly Yellowstone Travel and Tours
• Mark Christopher Andrada
• The Harriet Cruise
• Scuba Nation Diving & Tours

A Perfect 3 Days Iloilo Itinerary

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on October 23, 2023

Categories Philippines

We will write this 3 Days Iloilo itinerary. Iloilo City is located at the western part of  Panay Island  and is composed of approximately 1,721 barangays in its 43 towns. Check here to get a discount booking activities and resorts with Klook in the Philippines !

Iloilo is truly a great example of a city growing towards progress without ruining its century-old central business district. Read here  where to stay in Iloilo !

Iloilo is surrounded by numerous beaches and resorts that will satisfy your wanderlust. Unlike some of the most crowded and major cities in  the Philippines , Iloilo is more laid-back. It is perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and just relax.

Driving around the city is a pleasure since the traffic is not as horrible as in  Manila . You can even roll your window down and get a whiff of clean, fresh air that your lungs can thank you for, as you enjoy a scenic view of the city as well. Now, doesn’t that sound great? If you’re getting excited to visit Iloilo City, continue reading to learn more about this destination.

Table of Contents

SIM CARD AT MANILA AIRPORT

I wouldn’t recommend you to buy a sim card at Manila airport. If you wish comfort you can buy eSim online and if you aren’t in a hurry just go around phone shops in the city and compare prices to buy the cheapest sim card in Manila. Read here Philippines sim card for tourist and best Philippines eSim

WHERE TO STAY IN ILOILO

There are plenty of hotels, inns and resorts in the city and all around the province. For as low as  400-1,000 PHP , you can book modest rooms at dorms, pension houses and B&Bs. Staying at a nice hotel is also inexpensive at  1,300-2,500 PHP . That’s only  $24-47 USD  per night!

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can read  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full  Heymondo Travel Insurance Review

You can get  Safetywing Travel Insurance  for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days  Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included

HOW TO GET TO ILOILO

Getting to iloilo city b y plane.

If you are getting to Iloilo City by plane. The fastest way to get to  Iloilo City  is definitely  by plane . From Manila, you can fly to  Iloilo  for around 3,000 PHP or so for a round trip ticket that lasts an hour. You can purchase cheaper flights online if you decide to book usually 2-3 months before your planned date of visit, go ahead and  check out Cebu Pacific .

Also, the weather can be a bit unpredictable. It could be boiling hot during the summer, or too rainy around December to January. So it’s better if you mentally prepare yourself ahead of time, unless those are the type of climates you’re used to then, welcome!

GETTING TO ILOILO CITY  FROM ILOILO AIRPORT

If you are getting to Iloilo City from the airport. You can hail a cab and ask to be dropped off at your destination. You can search in advance some rental cars and transportation services you can avail in Iloilo City. The  Grab app  is widely used in the city as well.

GETTING TO ILOILO CITY B Y SHIP/BOAT

If you are getting to Iloilo City by ship. There are regular trips to and from  Manila ,  Cebu ,  Cagayan de Oro , and  Bacolod  that are headed to Iloilo. The schedule and the trips can be modified and cancelled because of weather conditions, especially during rainy season. Make sure you take a look to the weather in rainy season.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ILOILO

As part of the Philippine archipelago, Iloilo shares the humidity and 2 seasons of the country. It is common sense to travel to a city’s dry season to explore all its best locations without worrying about the rain, but Iloilo is pretty much a year-round destination. The driest months and therefore the best time to visit Iloilo is from  January to June .

December is also a good time to visit, but you can expect high rates from hotels during this month. If you want to visit Iloilo during its low season, August is the best time to do so, though you should expect plenty of rain. The warmest months, on the other hand, are April to June.

Whatever month you decide to visit. Make sure to have sunscreen with you as the heat of the sun is different in tropical and Asian countries like the Philippines. Stay hydrated at all times, too!

Click here to know more about the weather in Iloilo !

DAILY BUDGET TO VISIT ILOILO

Fortunately, the cost of living in Iloilo is pretty low, especially compared to other island destinations. Decent  meals  can be afforded at  100-200 PHP  and beer is also readily available at 40-60 PHP. Pretty cheap, right?  Moving around Iloilo also isn’t a problem with the abundance of transportation options here. You can start your trip with the flat rate of 9 PHP on the jeepney and  40 PHP  on a taxi.

CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH BOOKING AND WITH AGODA.

Check here to get a discount booking activities and resorts with Klook in the Philippines !

TRANSPORTATION AROUND ILOILO

Commuting around Iloilo and to other nearby locations is very easy and convenient. The province is highly accessible and is actually a transportation hub in Western Visayas. You can get pretty much everywhere without any hassle as there are several terminals dedicated to various towns and areas in Iloilo.

TRANSPORTATION AROUND ILOILO BY BUS

You can reach as far as Manila when you ride a bus from Iloilo. How, you ask? Thanks to the RORO, the ship vessels that carry land vehicles across the seas, it is possible. From  Tagbak Terminal  (the biggest one in Iloilo), you can go to Manila and Boracay. A trip to Boracay lasts around 5 hours while going to Manila costs around  765 PHP .

Buses here also have trips to other cities in the province like Anilaw, Batad, Dingle and Estancia. You can also take a minibus or van to various destinations in Iloilo.

TRANSPORTATION AROUND ILOILO BY JEEPNEY

Jeepneys are the #1 mode of transportation all over the country. These vehicles travel all sorts of routes and distances, and have the cheapest fares compared to buses and vans. As a transportation hub, Iloilo City has plenty of jeepney terminals with trips all over the province.  Mohon Terminal  and  Iloilo Terminal Market  has jeepneys headed to Southern Iloilo towns like Guimbal, Oton, Tigbauan and San Joaquin.

Those visiting Alimodian, Leon and San Miguel can take the jeeps and vans at  Ungka Terminal ,  Pavia People’s Terminal ,  Hibao-an Terminal , and  Jaro Big Market.  These terminals are bound to Central Iloilo. Prices of the jeepney are starting from  8.50 PHP  in Iloilo the minimum fare.

Read here our  27 favorite Instagrammable places in the Philippines !

MORE TRANSPORTATION AROUND ILOILO

We used  Grab  to move around Iloilo since we were having luggage and we had to change the jeepney it was more comfortable. Prices going to the bus station were around  150-200 PHP .

Sometimes is hard to connect your laptop to the VPN and you have to be patient. If you go for a week you will find VPN with free trials . We used Atlas VPN , ExpressVPN , NordVPN , Surfshark and Proton VPN . When connecting the VPN to your device will make it slower than usual.

Read here Atlas VPN vs Surfshark VPN ,  Atlas VPN full review ,  Atlas VPN vs Proton VPN ,  Nord VPN vs Surfshark VPN ,  PIA VPN vs Surfshark VPN ,  Proton VPN vs Surfshark VPN ,  ExpressVPN vs Surfshark VPN ,  IPVanish vs Surfshark VPN ,  Atlas VPN vs ExpressVPN  and  Atlas VPN vs Nord VPN

ILOILO ITINERARY

Day 1 iloilo itinerary.

There are many amazing Iloilo tourist spots to visit and things to do in Iloilo, so take the challenge and maximize your precious time learning about the city’s history and culture, sampling its tasty cuisine, and seeing calm beaches. For the first day after getting to the airport and transfer to your hotel.

You can start exploring the first tourist spots in Iloilo and trying the local food. You can go to city center and explore around Molo Church, walking around the esplanade and also Jaro Cathedral. If you have time you can explore Garin Farm.

For food the most popular dishes are batchoy and Molo Pancit. We have to say that we loved both of them and it’s a must to try when visiting Iloilo.

ST. ANNE PARISH CHURCH / MOLO CHURCH

Molo Church is known to be a feminist church or Church of the Women because the images of the saints in the church are all female. Built in 1831, the structure is made of white coral and has been well-preserved since.

It was declared a national landmark by the National Historical Institute in 1992. The church was so well-constructed that it withstood several strong earthquakes in the past.

JARO CATHEDRAL

Jaro Cathedral, formally known as Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, was previously destroyed by an earthquake. It was repaired by the first Archbishop of Jaro. 

One of Iloilo City’s cherished icons, the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral is famous for its wonderful design and devoted church-goers.

WALK AROUND ILOILO ESPLANADE

You can start walking from Molo Church for a lengthy stroll to Esplanade and you might catch Iloilo’s beautiful sunset from there. It is located along Diversion Road in the Mandurriao District, and it is one of the best spots to visit in Iloilo City.

VISIT MOLO MANSION

The main heritage house in Iloilo located in Molo Plaza. It’s been preserved from the outside and inside. It has a daily souvenirs store and it’s perfect to buy passalubong.

This is a perfect place for family, friends and people who love nature and outdoor activities. It is also ideal for those into educational travel, especially in matters like farming and agriculture.

This is a great place to relax, replenish and meditate as you bring yourself closer to nature. Garin Farm is an inland resort in Purok 2, San Joaquin, Iloilo.

The famous imitation of how heaven would look like is a wonderful place to pray and even take pictures. The farm also offers different leisure activities like boating, zip line and fishing.

The resort also dedicated a piece of land that perfectly depicts the meaning of the traditional Filipino song “ Bahay   Kubo ” which enumerates the many vegetables grown in the country.

HOME OF BATCHOY

Yes, Iloilo City is the home of the famous Filipino delicacy called  batchoy , a noodle soup. It is a must-try in Iloilo City and the best batchoy can be found at  Netong’s Original Special Lapaz Batchoy  in, La Paz Martket, La Paz, Iloilo, It is one of the greatest staple food in the province and will always be one of the favorites of every Filipino and  Ilonggo .

Travel tip:  The most authentic  batchoy  in Iloilo can be found inside La Paz Public Market at  Netong’s.  You can also try other restaurants like Ted’s and Deco’s..

MOLO MANSION CAFE

Walking around Molo Plaza is a must to visit Molo Mansion and Molo Mansion Cafe were you can relax and have ice cream, coffee or trying local food in a quiet spot in Iloilo City.

MOLO PANCIT

One of our favorites dishes in Iloilo City. It’s a soup dish made of meat-filled dumplings, shredded chicken and a robust broth. You can combine with penauts and onions.

DAY 2-3 ITINERARY IN ILOILO

You can go for a day trip to Guimaras Island but we recommend you to stay overnight. You can do island hopping and explore around the island. It’s so close to Iloilo City and you can get 15 minutes boat to get there.

Once in Guimaras Island you can move around tricycle and jeepney. We recommend you to try mango pizza and mango delicacies at the Pitstop Restaurant the most popular one in Guimaras Island.

GUIMARAS ISLAND

Guimaras is considered as one of the most visited exotic places in the Philippines. Located southwest of Panay Island and northwest of Negros Island, Guimaras has a dry and wet season. Hiligaynon is the native dialect but the locals can write and speak English and Filipino very well.

Guimaras mangoes are among the sweetest in the world! If you want to you try the best mangoes in the island, visit  Oro Verde Mango Plantation , where more than thousands of trees are rooted in the land’s rich soil and produce these famous fruits.

Click here to get the best deals in Guimaras Island !

You can enjoy a beautiful Guimaras Island hopping. As we mentioned Guimaras is Mango Province, you can try delicious mangoes and the Unique Mango Pizza.

You can also book your accommodations in Guimaras Island through  Agoda  or  Booking .

DINE AT THE PITSTOP RESTAURANT

This may sound odd but you have to taste their Mango Pizza and Mango Beef  Bulalo.  After all, mangoes are the most famous food in nearby Guimaras Island so this is one of the best food you’ll ever taste in Iloilo City. I guarantee it will become one of your favorites! You can visit the restaurant at SM Iloilo Southpoint.

MANGO DELICACIES

We mentioned above about Mango Pizza and Mango Bulalo but as it’s so closed to Guimaras Island. You will have the opportunity to try mango desserts too at Pitstop in SM Iloilo City.

MORE DAYS IN YOUR ILOILO ITINERARY

Visiting miag-ao church.

Considered one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in the Philippines and listed as a  UNESCO World Heritage site  is The Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova, more famously known as Miag-ao Church.

It is an architectural treasure especially because of the sculptural relief carved on the church’s facade. Miag-ao church is 30-45 minutes away from Iloilo city and can be reached through south-bound jeepneys from Mohon Terminal.

SWIMMING IN NADSADJAN FALLS

Wanna go somewhere cool? Located in Igbaras is a 100-foot tall waterfall that attracts tourists from all over. Nadsadjan Falls is the perfect place to cool off during the summer and the unspoiled beauty of its waters and surroundings are worth the 45-minute trek along the river.

ISLAS DE GIGANTES (GIGANTES ISLANDS)

Because of their remote location, the Gigantes Islands still offer that off-the-beaten track appeal, with uncrowded beaches, a lagoon hidden within rock formations, and all-you-can-eat seafood.

Click here to get the best deals for accommodation in Gigantes Islands !

HOW TO GET TO GIGANTES ISLAND

1. From the IloIlo International Airport , take a taxi or van then take another public vehicle from either SM IloIlo or Tagbak Terminal. It may take 30 minutes or so depending on the traffic.

2. From Tagbak Terminal,  you may choose to take a bus or a van going to  Estancia . We suggest riding a van since it is faster and cheaper compared to a bus ride. Travel time takes 2 and a half hours.

3. Once you arrive at  Estancia , ride a tricycle going to the port. This trip may take less than 15 minutes.

4. You will then ride a passenger boat going to Gigantes Islands which operates daily at 1 PM. The boat ride usually lasts 2 hours.

5. Welcome to Gigantes Islands! You may now ride a  habal-habal  going to your resort.

You may visit the famous  Cabugao Gamay Island,  one of the most featured islands of Gigantes. You can definitely expect crystal clear waters here and a few tourists or visitors if you travel in their low season. Another famous place to visit in the island is the  North Gigantes Island Lighthouse  which gives you an amazing view of the sea through the lighthouse.

It is one of the twenty-seven lighthouses that were commissioned by Spaniards during their era in the Philippines, and visiting here will feel like traveling back through time. Feeling a bit adventurous? Visit  Pawikan Cave.  The locals said that the cave was named “Pawikan” because of its rock formations resembling giant turtle eggs.

Last but not the least,  Tangke Salt Water Lagoon  is a spot famous for its amazing rock formation. There’s also a really cool swimming spot in its shallow waters. The place is totally Instagram-able. Yay!

Read here a full blog post  how to get to Gigantes Island !

EXPLORING THE CONCEPCION ISLANDS

While the Gigantes Islands of Carles are a big hit among tourists from all over, there’s another group of islands that are yet to be discovered by most travelers.

The Concepcion Islands of  Bulubadiangan and Pan de Acuzar  are around 3 hours away from Iloilo City but is well worth the trip for its stunning views, unspoiled beaches and, best of all, the piece and quiet of a destination that’s off the beaten path.

SEEING THE KULIATAN MARINE SANCTUARY

A protected area that’s less than 2 hours away from Iloilo city is the Kuliatan Marine Sanctuary at San Joaquin. This hidden 2-hectare paradise are excellent swimming and snorkeling spots with a an entrance fee of only  50 PHP  per person. There are cottages that can be rented for a day and for overnight stays at  50-750 PHP .

GO HIKING AT BUCARI PINE FOREST

Frequented by visitors participating in team building activities, family outings or camping trips is Bucari Pine Forest. It is also known as the Baguio of Panay Island but is not as crowded or cramped.

The site has a beautiful pine forest and a 2- to 3-hour trek leading to Combong Waterfalls. There’s also a trek to the viewing deck that lasts less than 1 hour and offers panoramic views of Bucari.

VISITING TANGKE SALTWATER LAGOON

Reminiscent of the world-class lagoons of  Palawan , Tangke Saltwater Lagoon is a hidden spot located at Islas de Gigantes Sur that’s sure to take your breath away. The lagoon is a very picturesque destination with beautiful rock formations and turquoise blue waters.

Tangke Saltwater Lagoon can be reached through an hour-long ride on a pumpboat from Estancia.

EXPLORING PAWIKAN CAVE

Another gorgeous destination in Islas de Gigantes Sur is Pawikan Cave, a subterranean site the got its name from from the rock formations that are shaped like a turtle (or  pawikans ) eggs. According to stories, this is where soldiers of the Japanese Imperial Army hid their gold bars that are part of the legendary Yamashita treasure.

The trail to Pawikan Cave involves very steep cliffs and a forest sits on its entrance, making the cave quite hard to reach but well worth the adventure.

VISITING POTOTAN ASTRODOME

It’s always nice to find a nice place to chill with the family whenever visiting a new destination. Pototan Astrodome is just that, with its lagoon, skating rink, spacious greens and basketball court. Locals and tourists converge at Pototan Astrodome for a good time.

SWIMMING IN WATERWORLD ILOILO

Another fun and exciting place for the family in Iloilo is WaterWorld. For just  350 PHP , you will have access to the most amazing slides and rides and 50 PHP gets you a spacious locker to put all your belongings in. WaterWorld is the perfect place for a fun, thrilling and carefree day in Iloilo.

SNORKELING IN SICOGON ISLAND

Ever dreamed of visiting an island with a seemingly endless stretch of sand, a lush forest and gorgeous blue waters? Then head on out to Sicogon Island, a paradise in Northern Iloilo.

There are so many places to visit here aside from the beach like the ruins of a luxury hotel and Mount Opao, a beutiful mountain with a forest, a natural spring and a bare rock summit that can be reached in 1-2 hours.

VISITING THE LIGHTHOUSE RUINS OF CALABAZAS

Part of the Aguy Islands is Calabazas, a scenic spot that’s only an hour and 30 minutes away from Iloilo City. Here you will see the famous ruins of a lighthouse built in the Spanish era. The old lighthouse has been replaced by a tourelle tower built on top of a hill and offers gorgeous views of the Guimaras Strait.

ZIPLINING AT DAMIRES HILLS

Damires Hills Tierra Verde Farm Resort is a popular destination in Iloilo City where you can bring friends and family and have a wonderful time. There are exciting things to do in Damires Hills like going on a canopy walk, ziplining for  200 or 300 PHP  (sitting or superman position) and riding an ATV.

There’s also two swimming pools in Damires Hills for those who just want to relax. The farm resort is the perfect place to stay overnight and just enjoy nature.

WHERE TO STAY IN ILOILO? CLCIK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH BOOKING.

WHERE TO STAY IN ILOILO CITY: HOTELS IN ILOILO CITY PHILIPPINES

Aurora 2013 guesthouse.

We stayed at  Aurora 2013 Guesthouse  and to be honest it was amazing. The location was great sleeping in a quite neighborhood just one jeepney ride of Jairo Cathedral and Molo Plaza.

The rooms were quite big, the staff was very welcome and made us feel as at home. The breakfast were one of our favorite food in Iloilo. If you book in this place you will understand why the are Number 1 in Agoda and Tripadvisor Reviews. Prices are starting  1700-2000 PHP .

GO HOTELS ILOILO

The rooms at Go Hotels Iloilo come with air conditioning, a personal safe, and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. It also has a private bathroom with towels. 15-minute drive from SM City Iloilo and 6-minute from SM Delgado, Go Hotels Iloilo offers a 24-hour front desk, parking, and free WiFi in the entire hotel.

At Go Hotels Iloilo, guests can approach the friendly staff for assistance with luggage storage, laundry service and car rental arrangements. A common lounge area is also available. Their rooms are affordable for just  $26 a night! Great option as cheap hotels in Iloilo City.

Click here to check their rates and availability!

RICHMONDE HOTEL ILOILO

The rooms at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo are equipped with a cable TV, a desk, and a safety deposit box. A private bathroom with free toiletries are provided for guests. Some rooms offer a tumble dryer and a seating area. Staff at the 24-hour front desk can help guests with any queries that they may have. Currency exchange and luggage storage may also be arranged for guests at the reception.

Guests can enjoy the buffet breakfast at the on-site restaurant, The Granary. The restaurant and bar serves international cuisines. Their deluxe room costs  $109 a night.

Click here to know their rates and availability !

Offering free WiFi, J7 Hotel offers rooms in Iloilo City, 1.9 mi from Calle Real. Providing a restaurant, the property also has a terrace. The accommodations offers a 24-hour front desk. The units in the hotel are fitted with a flat-screen TV with cable channels.

Each room includes a private bathroom and free toiletries, and certain rooms are fitted with a balcony. All units at J7 Hotel include air conditioning and a desk. A à la carte, Asian or Italian breakfast can be enjoyed at the property. Their room’s price starts at  $80 a night.

Let us know in the comments if you have more recommendations and if this post was helpful for you. You can also help us by sharing our Iloilo itinerary on your social media profiles in Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram.

Feel free to use our links for discounts. Using our links will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

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Iloilo Islas De Gigantes Island Hopping Tour with Lunch

Guimaras Top Attractions & Island Hopping Tour with Lunch & Transfers from Iloilo City

Relaxing 3-Day Richmonde Hotel Iloilo Tour Package with Airport Transfers

Iloilo City Food Tour & Sightseeing with Transfers | La Paz Batchoy, Pancit Molo, Jaro Church

Iloilo City Top Heritage Attractions & Garin Farm Day Tour with Transfers

Premium 4-Day Richmonde Hotel Iloilo Package with Tours & Transfers

Iloilo Islas de Gigantes & Sicogon Island Hopping Shared Tour with Lunch

Iloilo Shared Tour to Garin Farm, Molo Church, Miag-ao Church & Esplanade with Transfers

Iloilo Farm Agriculture Tour to Ephrathah Farm & Damires Hill Tierra Verde with Transfers

Captivating 1-Week History, Heritage & Islands Tour to Bacolod, Iloilo & Guimaras from Manila

Enriching 10-Day Nature & Heritage Tour Package to Cebu, Bacolod, Negros & Iloilo from Manila

Epic 12-Day History, Heritage, Islands & Nature Tour to Bohol, Cebu, Bacolod & Iloilo from Manila

1-Week Heritage & Cultural Tour to Iloilo, Guimaras & Bacolod Visayas Package from Manila

Iloilo City Night Tour to Old Mansions and Heritage Landmarks with Hotel Transfers

Private Iloilo City Pilgrimage Tour to Churches with Lunch & Hotel Transfers

Iloilo Tour to Garin Farm, San Joaquin Church, Guimbal Church with Lunch & Transfers from City

Iloilo City History & Heritage Landmarks Tour with Transfers

Stunning 11-Day Islands & Heritage Tour Package to Bacolod, Iloilo, Guimaras & Boracay from Manila

Amazing 1-Week Islands & Cold Spring Tour to Iloilo, Antique & Boracay from Manila

Breathtaking 9-Day Islands & Beaches Tour to Boracay, Bacolod, Iloilo & Guimaras from Manila

Iloilo City to or from Boracay Caticlan Jetty Port | Iloilo to Boracay Transfers

10-Day City, Food & Islands Tour to Iloilo, Cebu & Boracay Package from Manila

Enlightening 14-Day Pilgrimage Tour to Laoag, Cebu, Bohol, Iloilo & Bacolod from Manila

Gastronomic 14-Day Food Tour Package to North Luzon, Cebu, Iloilo, & Bacolod with Flights & Hotels

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

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Island hopping tours, water activity tours, adventure tours, best of the philippines, philippine airport and sea transfers, philippines vacation packages, philippine scuba diving packages & courses, philippines day passes and tickets, verified customer reviews.

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Natividad Soike

We had a fabulous tour with Roger, our driver; and Mhey, our guide. Everything went smoothly as planned. Mhey shared her vast knowledge of the island, and many parts of the Philippines. Topping the land tour with island hopping was fantastic. I highly recommend this tour.

Richard Zaldivar

Overall a great experience. A bit short on stops in every island but still acceptable. and the food is also great.

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Updated Iloilo Travel Requirements

The “City of Love’, Iloilo is your gateway to Iloilo Province. It is a progressive and highly urbanized city that serves as center of commerce, trade, finance and education of the region. The city welcomes everyone with its rich culture and heritage, delectable cuisine and lovely people. If you are going there soon, check out this post for the latest Iloilo travel requirements for a hassle-free entry to the city and the entire province.

Iloilo Community Alert Level

Based on the latest IATF Resolution, the entire Province of Iloilo including Iloilo City is under Alert Level 1 .

Iloilo Travel Requirements for Tourists

Iloilo city, for fully vaccinated tourists.

• COVID-19 vaccination card or certification issued by LGU, vaxcert.doh.gov.ph  or legitimate vaccinating establishment

For Partially Vaccinated or Unvaccinated Tourists

• Negative RT-PCR test result from DOH accredited establishment taken within 72 hours prior to arrival

Protocol Upon Arrival in Iloilo City

• Fully vaccinated individuals are no longer required to undergo quarantine & RT-PCR testing
• Partially & unvaccinated individual shall immediately undergo quarantine procedures upon arrival and on the 3rd day of quarantine, they shall undergo RT-PCR testing free of charge.
• Partially & unvaccinated ROFs with travel history from countries classified as Red is required to complete quarantine procedures and RT-PCR testing.

Iloilo Province

• SPASS (If heading to areas on Alert Level 2 or higher)
• Approved SPASS
• Notice of Coordination with the City / Municipality of destination
• Travelers below five (5) years of age are not required to present Negative RT-PCR Test result
• Travel requirements may differ for Guimaras province
• https://iloilocity.gov.ph/
• https://www.facebook.com/iloilocitygov
• https://www.facebook.com/balita.kapitolyo
• You may book your RT-PCR or Antigen Test at cheaper prices via Klook

Where to Stay in Iloilo

Make sure to book your stay in Iloilo from DOT accredited hotels, resorts and establishments.

Top-Rated / Highly Recommended Accommodations in Iloilo

Top-rated budget accommodations in iloilo.

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Iloilo launches tourism campaign

THE PROVINCIAL and city governments of Iloilo, working in concert with private sector tourism stakeholders, have launched the “Visit Iloilo” campaign to attract more domestic and international tourists and elevate the region as a prime vacation destination.

Leading this multi-sectoral tourism campaign is the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI), with support from the Department of Tourism of Region 6, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Iloilo (PCCI-Iloilo), and the Iloilo Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) Alliance.

Allan Ryan Tan, IFFI president, described Visit Iloilo as “our attempt to further promote Iloilo into becoming one of the premier tourist destinations here in our country.”

“It is an invitation for everyone to immerse themselves in our Ilonggo history, heritage, and hospitality,” he added.

To experience the best of what the city can offer and explore other captivating sites in Western Visayas, visit www.visitiloilo.ph. — NCB

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Tourism chief highlights prospects of collaboration in Iloilo

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• by Liez'l Marie Lamasan-Ejeda
• Apr. 22, 2024 1:56 pm in News

ILOILO CITY -- Potential areas of collaboration between Iloilo and the Department of Tourism (DOT) are in the pipeline, highlighting the booming tourism industry.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco met with Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas for a courtesy meeting where they tackled partnerships on tourism infrastructure and route development initiatives for Iloilo to attract more visitors.

Frasco was here in Iloilo City on April 5 during the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028 rollout for the Visayas cluster.

In the agency’s Facebook post, the DOT chief revealed that Iloilo was the “most appropriate venue” to roll out the NTDP, also known as “The Plan,” seeing the bullish prospects that the city and province have in terms of tourism development that are being prioritized by the local government units.

“So, I come here with great admiration for all the initiatives and also with our collective congratulations for your recent designation as a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy,” Secretary Frasco told Mayor Treñas.

To note, Iloilo City’s delectable Ilonggo cuisines, marked by flavors of culture and creativity, paved the way to UNESCO’s recognition as the country’s first Creative City for Gastronomy.  

It is now part of the 350 cities in more than 100 countries listed on the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in the fields of crafts and folk arts, design, film, gastronomy, literature, media arts, and music.

Frasco also invited Treñas and the city council to attend the hosting of the Philippines to the first United Nations Tourism Regional Gastronomy Forum which will be held in Cebu in June, as the country also boosts its gastronomy tourism portfolio.

For his part, Treñas lauded the efforts of the DOT, saying that “programs of a city or a department can only be implemented successfully if you have good people.”

The rollout of the NDTP, on the other hand, serves as the national government’s blueprint for establishing a Philippine tourism industry that delves into Filipino culture, heritage, and identity in the next five years.

According to DOT, this also functions as a guidebook of the industry on how to put sustainability mechanisms in place, as well as to ensure that the industry is robust and globally competitive.

“In the spirit of President Marcos’ economic aspirations for the Philippines, the NTDP is not just the plan, but a dynamic framework that requires all of us, our active engagement from policymaking to grassroots implementation,” Frasco said.

Inputs from stakeholders across the country, such as the DOT, its offices and attached agencies, other national government offices, various local governments, including those from tourism destinations, private sector representatives from various industry groups, academe, and non-governmental organizations, formed part in the development of the NTDP.  

The plan aims to generate livelihood opportunities for 6.3 million Filipinos by 2028, which is nearly a share of 12.9 percent of the country’s total workforce.

Meanwhile, Iloilo Provincial Governor Arthur R. Defensor, Jr. conveyed his support for the rollout of the NTDP 2023-2028 in the Visayas cluster, quoting that the province is all set to collaborate with the DOT.

“We are very thankful for this rollout because our work here today is to see where we are in this National Development Plan and our role and participation in this tourism development plan of the Department of Tourism,” Defensor said. (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo/DOT)

• National Tourism Development Plan

About the Author

Liez'l Marie Lamasan-Ejeda

Write to live. Live to write. 

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Iloilo City pinakamurang travel destination sa ‘Pinas

PERFECT na summer getaway ngayon ang Iloilo City dahil ito ang itinuturing na pinakamurang travel destination sa Pilipinas.

Kamakailan lang, inilabas ng booking platform na Agoda ang listahan ng mga lugar sa Southeast Asia na hindi lang maganda kundi budget-friendly rin.

Napabilang nga sa listahan ang Iloilo, na kilala bilang “Heart of the Country.”

Ayon sa Agoda, ang Iloilo City ang ikalima sa listahan ng pinakamurang travel destination sa Southeast Asia ngayong summer.

Matatagpuan din dito ang naggagandahang mga beach at hidden lagoon.

Hit na hit rin ang Iloilo dahil sa unang UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy sa Pilipinas at sa mga seafood lover dahil sa masasarap na mga pagkaing-dagat dito.

Kaya naman kung naghahanap ka ng abot-kayang bakasyon ngayong tag-init, arat na sa Iloilo City at punuin ang ating summer vacay ng magagandang memory.

Ayon sa ulat ng Manila Bulletin, P2,814 lang ang average room rate per night sa Iloilo.

Bukod sa Pilipinas, nabibilang din sa listahan ng Agoda ang Udon Thani (Thailand), Surabaya (Indonesia), Hue (Vietnam), Kuching, (Malaysia), Bengaluru (India), Narita (Japan) at Kaohsiung (Taiwan).

• Abante News Tags: Agoda , Iloilo City , Pilipinas , travel destination

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Iloilo City declares state of calamity due to water scarcity

The Iloilo City Council on Monday declared a state of calamity due to water scarcity amid searing heat in some areas of the country.

In a statement, the local government said the declaration will allow Iloilo City to use a portion of its calamity fund amounting to P12.5 million for the procurement and delivery of water to all affected barangays.

This includes barangays outside the assessment of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRA), according to the LGU.

State weather bureau PAGASA previously predicted that the heat index would rise to dangerous levels in Iloilo City and other parts of the country today.

PAGASA said the heat index may rise to 42°C for both Iloilo City and Dumangas, Iloilo.

Heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels, which is different from the actual air temperature. It is computed by factoring in the humidity as well as the air temperature.

Heat indexes that rise to dangerous levels may cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, as well as heat stroke, for individuals exposed to continuous heat.

PAGASA recommended limited outdoor activity, consistent hydration, and wearing fresh clothes to combat the effects of the heat. —AOL, GMA Integrated News

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Iloilo execs slam DPWH6’s ‘unresponsiveness’ over flyover

At least three foundations of the P680-million Ungka flyover have sunk just three months after it was opened to the public. PHOTO COURTESY OF AJ PALCULLO/PANAY NEWS

ILOILO CITY — Iloilo City and provincial officials expressed disgust over the failure of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Western Visayas (DPWH-6) to provide them with updates about two controversial flyovers.

Councilor Jose Ma. Trimañez, chairperson of Pavia’s town transportation committee, said the DPWH-6 had not given them updates on the P680-million Ungka flyover in Iloilo City and the P802-million Aganan flyover in Pavia town.

He said the incomplete structures had become “burdensome” to the public.

The town’s council had passed a resolution urging the DPWH regional office to provide them with a copy of the test results done on the Aganan flyover.

READ:  DPWH halts another Iloilo flyover project

Trimañez said they wanted to know when the project would be finished, and if the contractor, International Builders Corporation, had been paying liquidated damages according to their contract, among other questions on transparency.

“If we base their statements in the past, they don’t match [with the current situation]. There has been no update, and many have been burdened and affected, including students and local businesses, he said in a phone interview on Monday, April 15.

“We’re trying our best here in Pavia to promote our place as one of the most liveable, but because of these two giant [flyovers] that remained pending, the image of our town is being affected despite all of the efforts we are doing,” he added.

DPWH-6 Regional Director Sanny Boy Oropel, in a phone interview with the Inquirer on Tuesday, dismissed Trimañez’s claims, saying the regional office was ready to provide updates at any time should the local governments need it.

READ: DPWH partially reopens Iloilo ‘sinking’ flyover

“We are willing to attend if they do have an invitation. What we received is a notice that they want us to attend their session but no definite schedule was given. Once we commit to update them, we are ready to give updates any time the local government unit needs them,” Oropel said.

Trimañez said he would inform Pavia vice mayor Edsel Gerochi to set a schedule to meet the DPWH officials.

Trimañez lamented the lack of updates from the agency, saying they started to doubt the DPWH’s commitments to the local governments.

“I really don’t trust what they were saying [before]. They promised to give us reports. Until now, nothing, and updates, until now, nothing. Our question is, who do we ask? No one can answer us because [the DPWH-6] is hanging us out to dry. It’s like we Ilonggos are the ones to answer for the perversion they gave us, while they were the ones who used taxpayer’s money [for the flyover projects],” he said.

READ:  DPWH execs, contractor sued over ‘sinking’ flyover

Iloilo City Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna, who also chairs the city council’s transportation committee, said in January that the DPWH had committed to regularly update them regarding the Ungka flyover’s status.

But Trimañez noted that his counterparts in the city council and the provincial board had likewise not heard from the agency.

“I don’t think they have complied with their commitments to the city. Our counterparts in the [Iloilo City council] asked me when we met recently. We told them that we were not able to receive [any update], and it was the same for the Sangguniang Panlalawigan,” he said.

The Ungka flyover was partially opened to the public on June 30, 2022.

READ:  DPWH orders probe of ‘sinking’ Iloilo flyover

Barely two months later, on Sept. 6, 2022, the P680-million structure, which was funded through the efforts of former Senator Franklin Drilon to cut travel time to the Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan town, was fully opened to commuters.

But on Sept. 18, 2022, the DPWH closed the flyover after motorists complained about the “wavy feel” while driving over it, and amid reports and images of pools of water at the top of the flyover during rainy days.

The P802-million Aganan Flyover, on the other hand, started construction works in 2020 but abruptly ceased, drawing attention to potential issues with the project.

Confirmatory and seismic testing conducted by the DPWH regional office indicated that there were indeed flaws in the design of the flyover.

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Oropel declined to provide a clear timeline as to when the Aganan Flyover would be finished, saying they were seeking a third-party consulting firm to investigate it.

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