vigan ilocos tourist spots

11 Things to do in Vigan + Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots

Visiting Vigan City in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, transports you to an old-fashioned world—as old as the Spanish colonial era. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved towns of its kind in Asia.

Expectedly, the top Vigan attractions are quaint structures dating back to as far as the 16th century. From cobblestone streets to horse-drawn carriages to baroque buildings, it feels like you are traveling back in time as you roam around Calle Crisologo. While you are at it, be sure to bring home some antique souvenirs and partake in Ilocano delicacies, like empanada, bagnet, longganisa, tupig, and chichacorn.

From Vigan, you may explore the rest of Ilocos Sur province or traverse farther north to Ilocos Norte. Explore Bangui Windmills, Pagudpud beaches, Paoay Church, La Paz Sand Dunes, Narvacan Outdoor Adventure Hub & more. Or try surfing in La Union, which is only about two hours away by land travel.

Here’s a list of beautiful places to visit in Vigan including top things to do & the best Vigan 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 Vigan itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

Vitalis Villas

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Laoag & Ilocos Norte

Location : Ilocos region . Save on Google Maps .

Laoag Travel Essentials

Where to stay

See more : Laoag & Ilocos Norte travel tips

18 Things to do in Laoag + Ilocos Norte Tourist Spots

Location : Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) . Save on Google Maps .

Abra Travel Essentials

See more : Abra travel tips

La Union Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

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Manila-Luzon Shuttle – Tagaytay, Baguio, Laguna, La Union & more

Philippines Unlimited Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

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See more : La Union travel tips

11 Things to do in La Union + Tourist Spots

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

Places to visit in Vigan

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

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Vigan

Click below & search recommended Vigan 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

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

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Top 10 Vigan City Tourist Spots for Your Ilocos Itinerary

Vigan City in Ilocos Sur is one of the top cities and tourist spots in the Philippines where you can learn about the country’s rich culture and heritage in a very immersive way. In fact, the Historic City of Vigan was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and became one of the New7Wonders Cities in 2015.

Our overall experience in Vigan was truly surreal. It brought us to a place seemingly frozen in time as if we were still in the Spanish colonial era.

Now, allow us to give a glimpse of this historic city, from heritage sites to sightseeing spots. Also, before your trip, why not arm yourself with these useful Ilocano words and phrases to connect better with the Ilocanos?

Vigan City tourist spots for historical and cultural immersion

1. calle crisologo.

Calle Crisologo is one of the top Vigan City tourist spots

Calle Crisologo is probably Vigan’s most famous tourist spot and the starting point to every visitor’s exploration in the city.

When we came here, it was as though we instantly time-traveled to the Spanish colonial times. The cobblestone street is lined with Spanish ancestral homes, restaurants, and shops.

Riding the kalesa is one of the top things to do in Vigan City

We completed our Calle Crisologo experience by riding a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) where our driver toured us around the area. It turns even more magical at night so we had to revisit to see its nighttime splendor.

2. Crisologo Museum

Crisologo Museum is one of the top Vigan City tourist spots

Crisologo Museum is an ancestral house turned museum of the late congressman Floro S. Crisologo, one of Vigan’s prominent politicians.

Our museum guide Ms. Remy allowed us to explore the mansion and take photos of the memorabilia. It is free to enter Crisologo Museum but donations are highly encouraged to help with its maintenance.

3. National Museum of the Philippines – Ilocos (NMP – Ilocos)

Padre Burgos House is one of the top Vigan City tourist spots

The National Museum of the Philippines – Ilocos (NMP – Ilocos) is a heritage complex in Vigan composed of three historic buildings including the Old Carcel Museum, Padre Burgos House, and Magsingal Museum.

We only managed to enter Padre Burgos House , the ancestral home of Father José Burgos, one of the martyred priests who comprised the GOMBURZA. Inside the house, we saw some of his memorabilia and other items including an old printing press, native baskets, ceramics, and house furniture.

Entry to the complex is free of charge so it’s a really good place to learn more about Vigan, its people, and Philippine history in general.

4. Vigan Cathedral

Vigan Cathedral is an Earthquake Baroque-style church first built in 1574. It is located on Burgos Street, about 300 meters away from Padre Burgos House. You can opt to take the kalesa , tricycle, or simply walk to reach it.

We still managed to enter this majestic cathedral before. However, after the 7.3 magnitude earthquake on 27 July 2022, Vigan Cathedral is currently undergoing restoration and temporarily closed to the public.

5. Pagburnayan Jar Factory

Pagburnayan is a surviving pottery-making tradition in Vigan. It comes from the root word burnay , which means hand-crafted clay pots or jars from Vigan.

Pagburnayan Jar Factory is one of the top Vigan City tourist spots

There are only a few pagburnayan makers left in Vigan and we couldn’t pass up the chance to visit one of them. Mang Bongbong showed us how it’s done and we also tried our hands at it, but the output was not as perfect as the one pictured above.

It’s truly a fun and immersive cultural experience every visitor to Vigan should try!

6. Bantay Church Bell Tower

The Bantay Church Bell Tower or Bantay Belfry is not exactly in Vigan City, but in the nearby town of Bantay. It is about 10 to 15 minutes away by kalesa from Calle Crisologo, and is often part of the Vigan Heritage Tour .

Built in the late 1500s atop a hill, it once served as a watchtower for foreign invaders during World War II. The town got its name from the Filipino word bantay , which means to guard.

Today, it is an iconic structure that stood the test of time and is one of the must-visit historical attractions in Ilocos Sur.

Vigan City tourist spots for sightseeing

7. plaza burgos.

Plaza Burgos is one of the top Vigan City attractions

Since Father José Burgos was born in Vigan City, a number of sites in Ilocos were built to honor him and that includes the Plaza Burgos . It is located in the heart of Vigan City in the middle of Burgos, Crisologo, Florentino, and Jacinto streets. It is also just right beside the Vigan Cathedral.

While strolling around the plaza, be sure to sample their famous Vigan empanada. There are a number of food kiosks here selling this must-try Ilocos delicacy.

8. Plaza Salcedo

Plaza Salcedo is one of the top attractions in Vigan City

Plaza Salcedo was named after Spanish conquistador and Miguel López de Legazpi’s grandson Juan de Salcedo. It is a popular Vigan tourist spot close to the Vigan Cathedral, Ilocos Sur Capitol, and Plaza Burgos. The plaza becomes even more spectacular at night with its dancing fountain show.

As serene and picturesque as it is now, Plaza Salcedo actually holds a dark history. Did you know that it was the site where the Filipina revolutionary leader Gabriela Silang and her troops were executed?

9. Baluarte Zoo

Baluarte Zoo is one of the top attractions in Vigan City

If you’re looking for a family-friendly tourist destination in Vigan City, go to Baluarte Zoo . This zoological park in Vigan is the brainchild of businessman and former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson.

When we came here, we saw gigantic statues of dinosaurs as well as live wild animals including Bengal tigers and lions, snakes, and ostriches.

Baluarte Zoo also features a Safari Gallery where you’ll see preserved remains of animals from around the world.

10. Mindoro Beach

Do you know that there’s actually a beach in Vigan? Yes, the historic city is not all cityscapes and ancient structures. Discover this underrated tourist attraction in Vigan about 15 minutes by tricycle from the city proper.

Here, you can frolic by the beach and wait for the stunning sunset. It sure looks like a great place to cap off your day in Vigan City.

EXPLORE VIGAN CITY

These are just the icing on the cake of the many things to see and do in Vigan City. So, which of these attractions in Vigan will you add to your Ilocos itinerary?

After Vigan, Ilocos Sur, why not go up north and explore Ilocos Norte, too? We’ve rounded up some of the top Ilocos Norte attractions for you as well.

We hope you have fun on your Ilocos adventure just like we did!

Top 24 Best VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS + Things to do

Popular places to visit in vigan and top tourist destinations.

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Top 24 Tourist Spots in Vigan, Ilocos Sur

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Vigan, a charming city in the Ilocos Sur province of the Philippines, is a popular tourist destination known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial-era architecture. In 1999, Vigan was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Visitors to Vigan can stroll down the cobblestone streets of the Vigan Heritage Village, a picturesque neighborhood filled with Spanish-inspired architecture. The highlight of this area is Calle Crisologo, a street lined with old-fashioned houses, antique shops, and restaurants serving authentic Ilocano cuisine. The Bantay Bell Tower, a historical landmark that served as a watchtower during the Spanish colonial period, offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Vigan has also been recognized as one of the New7Wonders Cities, cementing its status as a top tourist spot in the Philippines. With its rich history, unique culture, and stunning architecture, Vigan is a destination that should not be missed by anyone visiting the Ilocos region.

Historical Landmarks

Vigan is a city with a rich history; its historical landmarks are a testament to its past. Here are some of the must-visit historical landmarks in Vigan:

Calle Crisologo, Vigan, Philippines by Ray in Manila via Wikimedia cc

Walking Tour of Calle Crisologo

Take a journey back in time and explore the stunning cobblestone street of Calle Crisologo, one of the most beloved tourist attractions in Vigan. This iconic street is lined with ancestral houses that date back to the Spanish colonial era, each with its unique mix of Chinese and Spanish-inspired architecture.

As you stroll along the street, you can feel the nostalgia of the Ilustrado lifestyle and explore the many shops, restaurants, hotels, bars, souvenir shops, and cafes. Named after the famous Mena Crisologo, a politician, poet, writer, and playwright, Calle Crisologo is a place full of history and culture.

No vehicles are allowed on this street, making it the perfect place to take photos of the stunning Spanish architecture. Open 24 hours a day, there’s no need to rush to get there, although most of the shops close after 8 p.m.

Visit Syquia Mansion

Step back in time and explore the grand Syquia Mansion, a stunning ancestral home of the Syquia family, one of the most prominent families in Vigan.

This remarkable house uniquely blends Spanish and Chinese-inspired architecture and boasts high-ceiling rooms, hardwood floors, intricate wood carvings, and antique furniture and porcelain pieces.

Visitors can tour the house to view the family’s collection of antiques and artifacts, as well as the paintings of the late President Elpidio Quirino and his family members, including a masterpiece of Fernando Amorsolo. Take a journey and discover the stories of the Syquia Mansion.

Crisologo Museum

Step inside the Crisologo Museum and experience the life and legacy of Congressman Floro Crisologo, a prominent political figure in Vigan.

This Spanish-era ancestral house is filled with memorabilia and artifacts related to the congressman’s life and career, including his clothes and antiques. The late Congressman Floro S. Crisologo and his wife once occupied this home until he was tragically assassinated in St. Paul’s Cathedral.

In his memory, his wife turned their home into a museum, free of charge, but accepting donations for maintenance. Visitors can admire the memorabilia but cannot touch it, though picture-taking is allowed.

Vigan Cathedral

The majestic Vigan Cathedral, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, stands as a proud reminder of the Spanish colonial era.

Nestled in the heart of the city, the baroque-style cathedral is a must-see for both tourists and locals. Not only does it offer an insight into the city’s rich history, but it has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an iconic attraction.

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Perched atop a hill overlooking the beautiful town of Bantay and Vigan, the Bantay Church Bell Tower is a captivating sight from the Spanish colonial era. Dating back centuries, the bell tower stands tall next to the St. Augustine Parish, one of the oldest churches in Ilocos Sur.

Tourists flock to this destination to take in the panoramic views of the countryside, and those brave enough can climb the bell tower to enjoy the open skies of Vigan. For those who don’t want to make the climb, the bell tower makes for a perfect postcard-worthy shot.

Padre Burgos Museum by Eugene via Flickr CC

Padre Jose Burgos House

Visitors to the Padre Jose Burgos House can take a step back in time and explore the home of one of the country’s most influential figures. The museum is filled with antique farming and weaving tools, photographs of famous people in Vigan, and the bedroom of Padre Burgos, complete with his writing essentials. It is a unique opportunity to learn about the Spanish colonization and the life of Padre Burgos.

Arce Mansion

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Discover the grandeur of Vigan’s past at the Arce Mansion. Located just a few blocks away from Calle Crisologo, this grand ancestral house is a mix of Spanish and Chinese-inspired architecture, and is one of the best-preserved ancestral houses in Vigan. Step back in time and experience a bygone era at this museum-turned-ancestral house.

Guests can dress up and live like an Ilustrado while enjoying a delicious dinner. Explore the old wood floors, antique furniture, and paintings that make this ancestral house unique. Immerse yourself in Vigan’s rich history and culture, and be amazed by the Philippines’ pride and a well-preserved location that will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.

Cultural Experiences

Vigan is a city in the Philippines that is rich in history and culture. Tourists who visit Vigan can immerse themselves in the city’s cultural experiences. Here are some of the must-try cultural experiences in Vigan:

Pagburnayan in Vigan by Andrew Martin via Wikimedia cc

Visit Pagburnayan

Vigan is home to the Pagburnayan Jar Factory, a place where visitors can witness the traditional art of pottery-making. Here, skilled potters use traditional techniques to create beautiful jars, pots, and other clay products.

The unique Burnay jars, which have small openings, and the larger wangging jars, are popular souvenirs among tourists. Unfortunately, pottery-making is a dying tradition and the Pagburnayan may soon have no successor. Visit this old Jar factory and be sure to take home a piece of Vigan’s history!

Abel Weaving

Vigan is renowned for its traditional Abel cloth, a hand-woven fabric that has been passed down through generations and is admired for its intricate beauty and quality. When you visit Vigan, be sure to take a stop at one of the many Abel showrooms, where you can learn about the craft, get to know the craftsmen, and even purchase a unique souvenir.

Rowilda’s and Cristy’s are two of the most renowned Abel shops in Vigan, offering a wide selection of Abel-Iloko products, such as shawls, blankets, table napkins, blouses, and placemats. Witness the skilled weavers create these masterpieces with their own hands and take a piece of Vigan home with you.

Experience Vigan Kalesa Ride

A kalesa ride in Vigan is a must-do for any traveler. Feel the wind in your hair as you explore the city’s cobblestone streets in a classic horse-drawn carriage. Relive the past and experience the city’s rich history and culture as you take a leisurely ride through the city.

With plenty of kalesa to choose from, it’s easy to arrange a ride for an hour or two, allowing you to visit multiple destinations in style. So hop in and explore Vigan in a traditional and fashionable way!

National Museum of the Philippines - Ilocos

Ilocos Museum Regional Complex

The Ilocos Museum Regional Complex is a must-visit destination for tourists who want to learn more about the history and culture of Vigan and the Ilocos region. The museum complex includes several museums, including the Crisologo Museum, Syquia Mansion Museum, and the Juan Luna Shrine. Visitors can learn about the lives of prominent figures in Philippine history, including the Crisologo family and Juan Luna.

Local Cuisine

Vigan is not only famous for its historical landmarks and cultural heritage but also for its flavorful local cuisine. The city offers a wide variety of Ilocano dishes that will surely satisfy any gastronomic adventure. Here are some of the must-try dishes when visiting Vigan.

Discover the deliciousness of Ilocos Empanada, a classic pastry bread with a unique twist! This orange and tasty snack is made with Ilocos longganisa, mung beans, papaya, and kesong puti (white cheese). It’s a popular snack that originated from Ilocos Sur and is deep-fried until it’s crispy and golden brown.

Don’t forget to try the traditional vinegar dipping sauce with your empanada! Irene’s Vigan Empanada and Lilong and Lilang Restaurant are two of the best places to get your hands on this delicacy. Stalls selling Ilocos Empanada are everywhere, so you can enjoy a snack while walking around the city. Get ready to be tantalized by the unique flavors of Ilocos Empanada!

Vigan Longganisa by Denise Bentulan via Flickr Cc

Longganisa is a type of sausage that is commonly found in the Ilocos region. It is made of ground pork that is seasoned with garlic, vinegar, and salt. It is usually served as a breakfast dish and paired with garlic rice and egg.

Longganisa from Vigan is known for its distinct flavor and texture. It is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.

Bagnet is a deep-fried pork belly that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It is a popular dish in the Ilocos region and is often served as a main course.

Bagnet is best paired with KBL (kamatis, Bagoong, and Lasona) or atchara (pickled papaya). Kusina Felicitas and Café Leona are two of the best places to try this dish in Vigan.

Sinanglaw photo via Farmview Eatery FB page

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something unique, head to Padre Burgos in Vigan to sample some of the best Sinanglaw. This local dish consists of beef innards such as tripe, liver, and heart, flavored with onions, ginger, garlic, and kamias for a sour kick. It also has a hint of bitterness from bile, making it similar to pinapaitan.

The perfect accompaniment to beer, this hearty and flavourful soup is sure to satisfy your cravings. BarTech is one of the most popular stalls in the area and is definitely worth a visit!

Eat at Café Leona

Named after the poetess Leona Florentino, this café is world-famous and used to be her own home. It became a restaurant and wowed patrons with its longganisa and bagnet offerings.

Tourists swear that they’ve had the best breakfast experience in the café. Besides Filipino foods, they also serve Japanese, Italian, and Thai cuisine. The café is located in Calle Crisologo. They also offer Vegan food.

Address: 1 Crisologo, Brgy 2, Vigan City, 2700 Ilocos Sur Hours: open daily from 11am to 8pm Phone: 0922 879 1833 / 0920 906 8144

Vigan’s local cuisine is a reflection of the city’s rich history and culture. It is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. From the famous Vigan Empanada to the flavorful Bagnet, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Outdoor Activities

Vigan offers a variety of outdoor activities for tourists to enjoy. Two popular spots are Mindoro Beach and Baluarte Zoo.

Mindoro Beach

Located in Currimao, Ilocos Norte, Mindoro Beach is a 3-kilometer stretch of black sand beach that offers a unique experience compared to other beaches facing the China Sea. Tourists can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. The beach is also known for its stunning sunset views.

Baluarte Zoo

Baluarte Zoo is a must-visit destination in Vigan. It is an 80-hectare property with a mini zoo, butterfly garden, and a variety of animal species. Visitors can witness animal shows, feed and interact with animals, and take photos with them. The zoo also has a zip line and a shooting range for adventure seekers.

Baluarte Zoo is owned by Chavit Singson, a prominent politician in the Philippines. The zoo is free of charge, and visitors can enjoy the attractions without spending a dime. However, visitors can also opt for a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.

Visit Mestizo River

This river has been the gateway of trading for Ilokanos and their foreign guests in the old days. A great way to know the river’s history is through the Vigan River Cruise, which lasts 45 minutes and details its discovery and how it is today.

Joining the cruise lets, you enjoy nature and learn some things about how Vigan started. Bring sunblock with you on this trip.

Festivals and Events

Vigan is known for its rich cultural heritage and history, and it celebrates this through various festivals and events throughout the year. Here are two of the most popular ones:

Vigan Town Fiesta

The Vigan Town Fiesta is celebrated every January 25th in honor of the town’s patron saint, St. Paul. The fiesta is a religious celebration where devotees gather to offer prayers and participate in various religious activities. The festival also includes a colorful parade, street dancing, and a beauty pageant.

Visitors can witness the traditional “kalesa” parade during the fiesta, where decorated horse-drawn carriages roam around the town’s streets. The town’s residents also showcase their creativity through various competitions, such as the “kakanin” (rice cake) and “empanada” (savory pastry) making contests.

Viva Vigan Festival of Arts

The Viva Vigan Festival of Arts is a week-long celebration held every May in honor of the town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The festival showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage through various art forms, such as music, dance, theater, and visual arts.

Visitors can witness the “calesa” parade during the festival, where decorated horse-drawn carriages roam around the town’s streets. The town’s residents also showcase their creativity through various competitions, such as the “kakanin” (rice cake) and “empanada” (savory pastry) making contests.

The festival also features various cultural performances, such as the “buklod” (folk dance) and “kabinnulig” (unity dance) performances. Visitors can also attend art exhibits and workshops showcasing the town’s traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and woodcarving.

Shopping and Souvenirs

When it comes to shopping and souvenirs in Vigan, there are a few places that visitors should definitely check out. Plaza Burgos and RG Jar Factory are two popular destinations for those looking to bring home a piece of Vigan.

Plaza Burgos

Plaza Burgos is a bustling market in the heart of Vigan where visitors can find various souvenirs and local products. The market is particularly known for its chichacorn, a popular snack made from fried corn kernels and seasoned with garlic and salt. Visitors can also find other local delicacies, such as bagnet (deep-fried pork belly) and empanada (a pastry filled with meat, vegetables, and egg).

In addition to food, Plaza Burgos also offers a range of handmade crafts and souvenirs, such as woven bags, hats, and baskets. Visitors can also find traditional clothing, such as barongs and Filipiniana dresses, as well as locally made jewelry and accessories.

RG Jar Factory

For those looking for more unique souvenirs, RG Jar Factory is a must-visit destination. The factory produces a range of handmade pottery, including jars, vases, and plates. Visitors can watch the pottery-making process and even try their hand at making their own piece.

In addition to pottery, RG Jar Factory also offers a range of other handmade crafts, such as woven baskets and bags. Visitors can also pick up locally made snacks and delicacies, such as biscocho (butter cookies) and tupig (a sweet rice cake).

Antique and Jewelry Hunting

The rich history of Vigan has allowed it to amass a vast collection of antiques and jewelry, which some stores there are now selling. Patient tourists can find old coins, clothes, and other antique items home from this souvenir hunt. One of the best sellers of antique stores in Vigan is the miniature antiques they’re selling.

Accommodation

If you’re planning to visit Vigan, you’ll need a place to stay. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available, ranging from budget-friendly Airbnb rentals to luxurious hotels. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best accommodation options in Vigan.

Vigan Hotels

There are several hotels in Vigan that offer a comfortable and convenient stay for tourists. One of the most popular hotels is Hotel Felicidad , which is located in the heart of Vigan’s historic district. This hotel offers well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.

Another great option is Hotel Luna , a boutique hotel that combines modern amenities with traditional Filipino design. This hotel is also located in the historic district, just a few steps away from Calle Crisologo, one of Vigan’s most famous tourist spots.

Other notable hotels in Vigan include Paradores de Vigan , Vigan Plaza Hotel , and Ciudad Fernandina Hotel . These hotels offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and spacious rooms.

Read: Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Airbnb in Vigan

Airbnb rentals are a great option in Vigan for those who prefer a more homey feel. Several Airbnb listings are available in the city, ranging from cozy apartments to spacious villas.

One popular Airbnb rental is a traditional Filipino house located in the historic district. This house has been renovated to include modern amenities while still retaining its traditional charm. It can accommodate up to six guests and is located just a few minutes’ walk from Calle Crisologo.

Another great option is a modern apartment located in the city center. This apartment can accommodate up to four guests and features a fully-equipped kitchen, a comfortable living room, and a balcony with views of the city.

Travel Information

Manila to vigan.

If you plan a trip to Vigan, here is some travel information to help you get there.

The easiest way to get to Vigan from Manila is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate daily trips from Manila to Vigan, including Partas, Dominion, and Viron. The journey takes around 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Buses depart from several terminals in Manila, including Cubao and Pasay.

You can rent a car in Manila and drive to Vigan if you prefer to drive. The journey takes around 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The most common route is via the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), which will take you to La Union and then to Vigan.

The nearest airport to Vigan is the Laoag International Airport, which is around 80 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Vigan. Alternatively, you can fly to Manila and take a bus or a car to Vigan.

Other Travel Tips

If you are traveling to Vigan from Baguio, you can take a bus to La Union and then transfer to a bus bound for Vigan.
If you are traveling to Vigan from Ilocos Norte or Pagudpud, you can take a bus bound for Laoag and then transfer to a bus bound for Vigan.
There are several ATMs in Vigan where you can withdraw cash. However, bringing enough cash with you is recommended, especially if you are traveling to remote areas.
English is widely spoken in Vigan, so you won’t have trouble communicating with the locals.

Contact Info

DOT Regional Office 1 Oasis Country Resort Hotel National Highway Baranggay Sevilla San Fernando City 2500 La Union Tel. No. (6372) 888 2411 / 242 1656 Fax: (6372) 888 2098 Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should i spend in vigan to explore its tourist spots.

To explore Vigan’s tourist spots thoroughly, spending at least two to three days in the city is recommended. This will give visitors enough time to visit the most popular attractions, such as Calle Crisologo, the Vigan Cathedral, the Syquia Mansion, and some lesser-known spots.

What are some must-visit museums in Vigan?

Vigan is home to several museums that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. The most popular museums include the Crisologo Museum, which features the family’s collection of antique furniture and memorabilia, and the Burgos Museum, which houses artifacts related to the Philippine Revolution.

Where is the best place to stay in Vigan to access its tourist spots?

The best place to stay in Vigan is in Poblacion or the City Center, particularly around Calle Crisologo. This area is where most of the attractions are located, and it is also where visitors can find a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels.

What is Vigan City known for, and what are some of its famous attractions?

Vigan City is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, which earned it a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Its most famous attraction is Calle Crisologo, a cobblestone street lined with ancestral houses that date back to the 18th century. Other popular attractions include the Vigan Cathedral, the Syquia Mansion, and the Plaza Salcedo.

What are some popular tourist spots in Ilocos Sur besides Calle Crisologo?

Aside from Calle Crisologo, Ilocos Sur has plenty of other tourist spots worth visiting. These include the Bantay Bell Tower, a historic tower that offers panoramic views of the city; the Baluarte Zoo, a wildlife sanctuary that features a variety of animals; and the Hidden Garden, a lush botanical garden that showcases local flora.

Vigan, Ilocos Sur Travel and Tour Packages

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist attractions in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, that you can add to your itinerary?

Want more updates about Vigan Tourist Spots? Like, Follow, and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , Pinterest , and Team out Of Town on YouTube for more Nagoya Travel Guide.

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Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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13 Vigan Tourist Spots That You Shouldn’t Miss

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vigan is one of the best places to visit if you want to travel back to the Spanish-era. From beautiful ancestral houses to centuries-old churches, you’ll definitely have a fun-filled trip in this historical city. Here are the top Vigan tourist spots you shouldn’t miss when you visit.

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Table of Contents

How To Get To Vigan

From manila.

From Manila, you can ride a bus going to Vigan. Travel time is around 8 hours from Cubao. You can book a flight directly to Laoag and then ride a bus from Laoag to Vigan.

Related: Partas Luxury Bus: Travel to La Union, Vigan, and Laoag from Cubao

From Baguio

If you’re coming from Baguio, you can ride any Partas bus bound to Vigan. Travel time is around 5 to 6 hours!

You can ride buses heading to Vigan. Travel time is around 2 hours.

Important Things To Know About Vigan

ATMs: There are several banks and ATMs in Vigan. However, it’s best to always carry enough cash.

Languages Spoken: Most locals can speak Ilocano and are fluent in Tagalog and English.

Festivals on the island:

Vigan Town Fiesta (January) – The town’s fiesta is a week ling celebration composed of parades, carnivals, beauty contests and cultural shows.
Kannawidan Ilocos (January) – This festival is a celebration of the culture in the province of Ilocos Sur.
Viva Vigan Festival of Arts (May) – You can expect dancing and music during this festival. However, the highlight would be the Tres de Mayo which starts with a mass, then dancing in the Crisologo Street and a kalesa parade.

Best time to visit: Best months to visit would be from December to February for cooler weather. The months with the least rainfall are November to April.

Getting Around: To get around La Union, you can choose from the tricycles, jeepneys, and buses.

Vigan Tourist Spots

Calle crisologo.

I remember looking at the photos of well-preserved cobblestone streets and horse-driven kalesas back when I was in Elementary school and adding it to my bucket list. So when my friend, Steffi and I first visited Vigan way back 2016, our first stop was Calle Crisologo. During day time, you’ll find here hotels, souvenir shops, cafes and bars which I think kinda ruins the travel-back-in-time experience. (If I remember correctly, there’s also a funeral parlor here).

If you want to have Calle Crisologo all to yourselves, I suggest waking up at 5:00 AM and go exploring. This is the best time to take photos. You can also rent a bike from Hotel Felicidad for around P150 per hour and go cycling.

And in all honesty, if you want to see ancestral houses, I’d suggest going to Taal Heritage Town in Batangas. The houses there are in top shape. You can even rent one on Airbnb!

Travel Tip: Get up to P2,200 ($44) discount on your first booking on Airbnb when you sign up using my referral link .

Location: Mena Crisologo St., Meztizo District, Vigan City
Open 24 hours but most shops close at around 8:00 PM.

Syquia Mansion

Syquia Mansion is a 19th century stone mansion which was once the home of the late President Elpidio Quirino. Decades ago, government meetings were conducted here. But now, it’s a museum which depicts wealthy living during the Spanish period.

Location: Quirino Boulevard cor. Salcedo Street, Vigan City
Entrance Fee: P20 per head
Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed every Tuesday)

Crisologo Museum

Crisologo museum is the ancestral home of the late congressman Floro Crisologo. After his assassination, his wife, Carmeling Crisologo converted their home into a museum in memory of her husband. You can find a lot of antiques, and things the family owns.

Location: Liberation Boulevard, Vigan City
Fees: Free but donations are accepted for the museum’s upkeep
Open daily from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Villa Angela Heritage House

Unlike Syquia Mansion and Crisologo Museum, the Villa Angela Heritage House is an ancestral home that was turned into a bed and breakfast. You can find here a photo of Tom Cruise with the owner back when he stayed in 1989.

Location: 26 Quirino Blvd., Vigan City
Rates start at P3,300+
Voucher Code : WANDERERA for 15% discount when booking at https://zenrooms.com
Book discounted rates here

Related Post: Vigan Hotels: 15 Best Accommodations in Vigan City

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Boasting of a view of Vigan City, Bantay Church Bell Tower was built back in 1591 and is one of the province’s oldest buildings. In the local dialect, “bantay” means “to guard” which is what the locals used the tower for. In 1857, it was then converted into a church bell tower.

Location: It’s 10 to 15 minutes away from Calle Crisologo via tricycle. Back when we went here, we made the mistake of thinking it was near so we walked for nearly 20 minutes under the heat. Haha.
Fee: It’s up to you. Donations are accepted for the maintenance of the bell tower.
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Padre Burgos House

During the Spanish period, there were three Filipino priests known collectively as GomBurZa who were martyred. One of these, Fr. Jose Burgos, once lived in this house. Padre Burgos House is his ancestral home. Now, it’s a museum which houses memorabilia of Father Burgos and his family.

Location: Burgos, Vigan City

Mindoro Beach of Vigan

People love white sandy beaches. But have you ever seen a black sandy beach? Mindoro Beach of Vigan is jet black in color because of the magnetite and iron ore present in the sand. Swim cautiously since the currents are very strong in these parts.

Location: Brgy. Mindoro, Vigan City (The beach is pretty far from the city so it’ll be a bit expensive if you do decide to ride a tricycle going there.)

Arce Mansion

Another ancestral home turned into a museum, Arce Mansion is a must-visit if you want to dress up. For a fee, you can dress up like a don, a dona, a gobernadorcillo or a Chinese immigrant.

Location: 87 Quirino Boulevard cor. Abaya Street, Vigan City
Fee: P150 for the costumes; P1,500 per person for the costume, photoshoot, dinner, and prints (good for a minimum of 5 people)

As a writer, I adore Cafe Leona. This cafe is the ancestral home of the poetess Leona Florentino. Their bagnet and longganisa are a must-try. You can find this place at Calle Crisologo.

Abel-Iloko Weaving Community

Beloved for its quality, Vigan’s traditional woven product the Abel cloth is made at the Abel-Iloko weaving community. You can visit an Abel showroom and learn more about the craft as well as buy some woven products like table napkins, blouses, blankets, shawls, and placemats for souvenirs. Rowilda’s Loom Weaving factory is the most famous in Vigan.

Location: Brgy. Camangaan, Vigan
Business Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Factory: Weaving activity starts at 8 a.m.) / 7:30 a.m. to evening (Showroom: closing time varies)

Baluarte Zoo

If you’re traveling with kids, you might want to check this place out. Owned by Chavit Singson, a local politician, Baluarte zoo houses several animals and often has wildlife shows. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella, it’s hard to walk under the harsh sun.

If you are an animal lover, it’s best not to come here. I was honestly traumatized by Singson’s collection of dead animals he hunted at the Safari Gallery.

Location: Quirino Boulevard, Tamag, Vigan City, 2700 Ilocos Sur
Business hours : 7: 00 AM to 6:00 PM
Admission : Free, but there is a Php 50 fee for the e-cab tour around the zoo.

Pagburnayan

Aside from weaving, Vigan also boasts jar making. You can stop by the Pagburnayan Jar Making and watch earthenware jars come to life from a potter’s hand. If you’re lucky, you can also try making one. It’s a magical experience. Don’t forget to buy a few jars for souvenirs!

Location: Liberation Blvd, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Fee: Free but donations are accepted.

Hidden Garden

This not so hidden place is best place to grab a scrumptious meal. Aside from the food, you can also have a look around and buy plants from the garden. There are a lot of ornamental plants and bonsai.

Location: Katipunan St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Where to Stay in Vigan?

Looking for accommodations in Vigan? Here’s a list for you : Vigan Hotels: 15 Best Accommodations in Vigan City

Airbnb Vigan

Aside from hotels and resorts, you can also opt to stay at an Airbnb .

Get your P2,200 ($44) Airbnb discount here!

Responsible Travel Tips

When traveling to one place, make sure you practice responsible tourism. Here are some tips to do so.

1. Respect the environment

Don’t litter. Please hold onto your trash until you find a garbage can. Don’t bring home the sand or any seashell. Leave them where they belong. Missing seashells can have potential detrimental environmental impacts.

Related: 16 Eco-Friendly Travel Products for the Earth-Loving You

2. Avoid single-use plastic

Bring your eco bag and refuse single-use plastic.

3. Shop local

Keep the traditional crafts alive and support local artisans. Buy from them. And try not to haggle, P20 may seem small to you but it can mean a lot to them.

4. Always ask permission

Be sure to ask for permission first when taking photos or videos especially when it comes to children

What to Pack for

Eco-friendly Reusable Water Bottle
Light Rain Jacket (especially from June to November)
T-shirts, a Nice top, and a Long-sleeved Shirt
Power Adapter
Universal Waterproof Phone Case
Packing Cubes
Microfiber Towel
Travel Insurance
Sneakers, and Some Flats
Reusable Straw and Reusable Bag (no to single-use plastic!)

Related Article: The Only Travel Packing List You’ll Ever Need (Trust Me)

Our Camera Gear

Mirrorless Camera: Fujifilm XT3
Lenses: Fujifilm Fujinon kit lens (18-55mm) | Fujinon 35mm f2 | Fujinon 50mm f2
Drone: DJI Mavic Pro 2
GoPro: GoPro Hero Black 7
Power Bank: Romoss Powerbank
Camera Backpack: Case Logic Camera and Laptop Backpack
Monopod: Ifootage Cobra 2 a180
Mic: Rode VideoMicro
Gimbal: Zhiyun Weebill-S

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Top 20 Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots: Host of the Heritage City of Vigan

What are the fascinating tourist spots in Ilocos Sur for the curious traveler aside from the world-famous Vigan City? Included are both popular and off-beaten places to visit and include in your itinerary.

I just resigned from a job after some months of exhausting and hectic engagements. That was my first job in the sprawling Manila metropolis and I never thought it could be that stress-filled for someone like me who got used to living a simple life in the mountains.

I badly needed a break and travel was my ultimate respite. Instead of going back home, I chose to explore the eco-cultural wonders of Ilocos Sur, one of the provinces of Region I.

If you’re also planning for an immersion there, here are the must-see tourist spots to see. Take note. Most of these are off-beaten, thus, suited for those who don’t like touristy destinations. Let’s go!

Behold Ilocos Sur Tourist Spot s

1. aw-asen falls.

Aw-asen falls is one of the tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

Aw-asen falls is one of the newly discovered tourist spots in Ilocos Sur, located on one of its remotest barangays namely, Santo Rosario in Sigay. Expect humps and bumps along the road to the barangay as it has not been fully paved.

The challenge does not end there. From the barangay’s nearest drop-off point, you ‘ll have to hike steep terrains and cross rivers before finally catching sight of majestic Aw-asen falls.

Aw-asen falls measures more than 142 feet (43 meters). It carved a wide and very deep pool. It’s crystal-clear and cold waters provide an instant relief after the arduous hike of getting here.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Santo Rosario, Sigay, Ilocos Sur
Trekking Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Guide Fee: Negotiable
Best Time to Visit: Summer Months (February to April)
Contact: 09276754613 (Bacardi Quitor, Office of the Mayor)

2. Bantay Bell Tower

One of the iconic tourist destinations in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, Bantay Bell Tower, stands on a hill overlooking Vigan City and the towns of Bantay.

Locals say that it was a favorite dating site of Diego and Gabriela Silang, both are local heroes who led revolts against the Spanish regime.

It is just 10-15 minutes of ride from Vigan. It is also adjacent to the St. Augustine Parish Church, known for its baroque-gothic architecture.

Location/Jump-off: Bantay, Ilocos Sur

3. Sangbay ni Ragsak Falls

Sangbay ni Ragsak Falls is one of the tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

Sangbay ni Ragsak Falls is an Iloco term, which means “Falls of Happiness.” Though it is one of the remotest tourist spots in Ilocos Sur, it is also one of the most picturesque.

It’s best to come here during the rainy season as the falls is in its full force. Patches of rainforests surround the falls, giving it a rustic view.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Patoc-ao, Suyo, Ilocos Sur
Trekking Time: 15 minutes
Guide Fee: Donation
Entrance Fee: Php 20 per head
Cottage Fee: Php 150 for 24 hours

4. Dawara Falls

Dawara falls is one of the must-see tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

If you’re planning to visit Sangbay ni Ragsak Falls, you can also side trip to Dawara Falls. You can do that in less than a day! Dawara falls cascades like heavenly drizzles on the face of a massive cliff.

Even without soaking in the pool, you’ll eventually get wet because it sprays caressing mists.

Location/Jump-off: Poblacion, Suyo, Ilocos Sur
Trekking Time: 30 minutes
Contact: LGU Suyo- [email protected]

5. Baluarte Resort and Mini-Zoo

If you’re looking to see exotic animals, check out Baluarte Zoo, a hundred-hectare zoological park, and resort complex. Here, you can find leopards, Bengal tigers, white lions, camels, zebras, and ostriches. You’ll feel like you are in Africa here.

Location/Jump-off: Quirino Boulevard, Tamag, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Opening Time: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Entrance Fee: None but there’s a Php 50 fee per person for an e-cab tour
Contact: (077) 722-7186

6. Yamashita Cave

The cave is named as such because it served as a barrack of General Yamashita during World War II. Locals say that the Japanese hid treasures beneath the cave which has a range of 64 meters.

To get here, expect to hike across pine forests and cross brooks. Along the way, you’ll catch sights of grasslands, high meadows, and different flora species such as orchids.

Location/Jump-off: Cervantes, Ilocos Sur
Trekking Time: 45 minutes

7. Calle Crisologo

Calle Crisologo is one of the must-see tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

Calle Crisologo takes you back to the Spanish times. It’s one of the most popular historical tourist spots in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Old Spanish-style houses and shops line the cobbled street.

Here, you can ride a calesa to get you around. The surrounding shops sell Filipino weavings, handicrafts, soft brooms, sculptures, and many other interesting products. It’s best to visit here during Vigan’s Festival of the Arts, celebrated every May 1.

Location/Jump-off: Vigan City

8. Cabugao Beach Resort

This is one of the best-known beach resorts in Ilocos Sur. Enjoy surfing and diving on the adjacent beach. You’ll also catch sight of stunning sunrise and sunsets. The resort offers a spectacular swimming pool for both adults and kids.

Location/Jump-Off: Brgy Pug-os, Cabugao Ilocos Sur
Contact: 639178334148 – Queenie S. Paras, +639177992677 – Mr Fernando U. Lazo
Category: Ilocos Sur Beach

9. Burnay Pottery Making

Jars from Vigan City has been gaining popularity in recent years. In the Iloco language, these are called burnay. They are made by hand from a grade-A clay which is abundant in the area.

The industry dates back to pre-colonial times and the burnay has been used for drinking tea and as a container for local ingredients.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Pagburnayan, Vigan City

10. Vitalis Villas

Vitalis Villas is one of the must-see tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

Dubbed as the “Santorini of the North,” Vitalis Villas is the Philippines’ version of the famed Santorini in Greece, featuring cubiform villas painted in a wash of white and blue. It’s one of the most elegant accommodations in Ilocos Sur, overlooking the beautiful sea.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Sabangan, Santiago, Ilocos Sur
Business Hours: Check-in: 3 p.m. / Check-out: 12 p.m.
Contact: 02-373-333, 077-604-6868
E-mail: [email protected]

11. Ken Ngilawen Burial Cave

When we speak of burial caves, the first thing that would come to mind is Sagada in Mt. Province. But you can also find them on a mountainous part of Ilocos Sur.

The Ken Ngilawen Burial Cave is a huge boulder with a wide crevice underneath where the log coffins are piled. Some coffins feature sculptures of a head resembling a serpent, cow, or lizard.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Apaya, Alilem, Ilocos Sur
Trekking Time: 10-15 minutes

12. Baey Anito Falls

Baey Anito Falls is one of the must-see tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

One of the least known tourist spots in Ilocos Sur, Baey Anito Falls is a sheer beauty to behold. “Baey Anito” is a Kankanaey term that translates into “House of spirits/gods.”

Locals say that the falls is a dwelling place of stories, thus, they named the falls as such. But no worries, that’s just a myth.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Anaao, Alilem, Ilocos Sur
Trekking Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour

13. Pikkang Falls

Pikkang Falls compose of several cascades with the highest measuring around 30 feet high. It has small and shallow pools.

Thus, its best to enjoy the falls by sitting or standing on the base while letting the drizzles caress you. It’s one of the most pristine waterfalls of Ilocos Sur, owing to its distant location.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Malamin, San Juan, Ilocos Sur
Trekking time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Guide: Donation

14. Vigan Cathedral

Also called the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Paul the Apostle, the Vigan Cathedral played an important role in the history of the Ilocanos. It’s one of the recognized historical tourist spots in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, designed by Juan de Salcedo. It’s just a walking distance from the famous Calle Crisologo.

15. Tirad Peak

Tirad Peak is one of the must-see tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

Tirad Peak towers over the historical Tirad Pass where Gen. Gregorio Del Pilar and his 60 men made their last stand against the invading American forces.

While atop, you’ll catch a panoramic view of the provinces of Abra, La Union, Benguet, and the municipality of Quirino. From time to time, a sea of clouds emerge.

Location/Jump-off: Poblacion, Gregorio del Pilar, Ilocos Sur
Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
Registration Fee: Php 25 per person
Contact: +639265331076 ( Mr. Macario Burgos, tourism officer)

16. Kayapa Falls

Kayapa Falls is one of the must-see tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

Cascading on one of the most laid-off locations in Ilocos Sur, Kayapa falls features a 7-tier beauty. It’s cool waters emanate from forests upstream which used to abound with different wildlife species such as deer and wild pigs.

The river leading to the falls also thrives with shrimps and small fishes. It is a new tourist spot in Ilocos Sur.

Location/Jump-off: Quirino, Ilocos Sur
Trekking time: 2 hours

17. Mira Hills Park

Mira Hills Park is Vigan city’s highest point and is the only remaining eco-park within the metropolis. It offers a rustic respite from the hustles and bustles of the city.

Here, you’ll find a swimming pool, an amphitheater for outdoor activities, and the Buridek Museum.

Entrance Fee: Php 50 per person

18. Govantes River

Locals claim Govantes River as the “face” of Vigan City because it’s the first river you’ll see before entering Vigan City proper. The local officials have been eyeing to turn it into a boating park.

Hopefully, that will help abate the worsening quality of the river due to household and industrial pollution.

19. Padre Burgos House

It’s the home of Padre Jose Burgos, one of the Filipino priests shot during the Spanish times for allegedly leading a revolt. The house, therefore, signify the heroism of the Ilocanos.

20. Syquia Mansion Museum

The mansion is said to represent the wealth of some locals in the past. These locals were active players during the Galleon Trade. Inside, you’ll find ancient furniture, relics, and paintings.

Surprisingly, one of the relics was a gift of a Chinese emperor during the Ming Dynasty. During the presidency of Elpidio Quirino, the mansion served as the Malacañang of the North.

Because of that, the museum is one of the historical places to go to in Ilocos Sur.

Entrance Fee: Php 20 per person

For Your Information:

If you need more information that may help in setting your itinerary to the tourist spots in Ilocos Sur, do contact Sure Ilocos Sur, a local tour organizer, through:

Contact Number: 0776440135
Via Email: [email protected]

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Vigan tourist spots + travel guide | philippines.

VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS + TRAVEL GUIDE | ILOCOS SUR ,PHILIPPINES

Vigan City Tourist Spots | Ilocos Sur, Philippines

VIGAN CITY, ILOCOS SUR, PHILIPPINES

Here’s your updated travel guide to Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. This guide covers top tourist spots, list of hotels and links to the booking site for your easy booking; and other relevant pieces of information which are helpful for you when planning your trip to the city.

WHY VISIT VIGAN CITY

Vigan City is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines found in the Ilocos Region. Its establishment can be traced back to the 16th century and considered as the most intact planned Spanish colonial town in Asia.

The architecture of the city manifests the mixture of cultural elements from the Philippines, China, and even Europe.

The well preserved Calle Crisologo paved with cobblestones… Vigan City Tourist Spot

VIGAN CITY TOURIST SPOTS | THINGS TO DO IN ILOCOS SUR

VIGAN CITY HERITAGE HOUSES

The place is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the preservation of almost 200 houses, and various structures that bring any tourist in the past era. Most of the old houses in the place are still used by the descendants of the original owners while others were converted into museums and galleries.

CALLE CRISOLOGO

The most popular tourist spot in Vigan City is the Calle Crisologo. The 500-meters street running along 5 blocks is a display of rich culture and antiquity. The street is paved with cobblestone matching the heritage houses lining on both sides. No modern vehicles are allowed to enter the street except for the Calesas. Walk along Calle Crisologo during night time, the place has a different charm when the sun is out. Dining along the Street of Calle Crisologo is another exciting experience.

VIGAN CITY HERITAGE VILLAGE
CALLE CRISOLOGO AND THE DANCING FOUNTAIN OF VIGAN

The Monument of Leona Florentino right in front of the museum… Vigan City Tourist Spot

LEONA FLORENTINO HOUSE

Located at the beginning of Calle Crisologo is Leona Florentino House. The structure is the 1797 ancestral house of Leona Florentino, a respected literary figure in the Philippines. The structure also houses The Vigan’s Tourism Center. They also have the Cafe Leona which offers various authentic local dishes and delicacies. Right in front, is a small park hosting the statue of Leona Florentino.

FATHER BURGOS MUSEUM

I’m sure you have heard about the “GOMBURZA”, an acronym for Gomez, Burgos, and Zamora. GOMBURZA were the three priests who were accused of supporting the rebellion during the Spanish time and were executed in Bagumbayan (now known as Luneta) by strangulation using a metal collar.

Visiting the Father Burgos Museum will illuminate in you the link between the Catholic religion brought by the Spaniards and the history of the place. The museum is the ancestral house of Jose Burgos and Florencia Garcia, Father Burgos parents.

The museum charges a minimal fee used for its maintenance and is open to the public from Tuesdays up to Saturdays, they close during lunchtime. For larger groups, you may schedule your visit during weekends and holidays.

The author at Crisologo Museum – Vigan City Tourist Spot

CRISOLOGO MUSEUM

The century-old mansion turned into a museum is owned by Floro S. Crisologo. The tragic event in his life was the inspiration for opening the museum. Floro Crisologo was shot dead by an unidentified gunman inside the St. Paul’s Cathedral on October 1970.

The Crisologo Museum is open for public 7 days a week. No entrance fees are collected but donations are accepted for the maintenance of the place.

Must read: CRISOLOGO MUSEUM AND SYQUIA MANSION

The Syquia Mansion showcasing not only the memorabilia of President Elpidio Quirino but the elegant furniture and fixtures collection of the Syquia’s – Vigan City Tourist Spot

SYQUIA MANSION OF PRESIDENT ELPIDIO QUIRINO

The Philippines’ sixth president, Elpidio Quirino was born in Vigan. The Syquia Mansion turned museum houses the extensive memorabilia of President Quirino as well as showcasing elegant furnishings and grand wooden furniture. The mansion is actually owned by his wife, Dona Alicia Quirino. The mansion hosted several President’s functions during his term as president.

EXPERIENCE PAGBURNAYAN

“Burnay” an earthenware jar made from the place is very popular among local and foreign guests. The Burnay Industry can be traced back to pre-colonial times brought about by the China immigrants who settled in Vigan City. This art of making Burnay using clay fashioned into the desired shape by the skillful hand of the potter. After which the pieces are placed inside a kiln made from bricks and clay.

Must Read: MY PAGBURNAYAN EXPERIENCE

Bantay Church, Vigan City Tourist Spot

BANTAY CHURCH AND BELFRY

Another historical structure found in Vigan City is the Bantay Belfry. Can be reached just 10 minutes from the city proper and located at Bantay District, hence the name Bantay Belfry.

It is said that the belfry which was built in 1591 was used as the watchtower of the place to know any attacks from the enemies. Any visitor can climb the tower and amazing vistas of the surrounding places.

On the same location is the 1590 St. Augustine Church with a deep reddish-brown, neo-gothic façade. The church building is one of the oldest surviving churches in Ilocos Sur.

Must Read: BANTAY BELFRY AND TINUBONG

CALESA RIDE FOR A MORE AUTHENTIC TOUR IN VIGAN CITY

Visiting various UNESCO Heritage Village would be more dramatic when you ride the Calesa (horse-drawn carriage). The latest price I knew was PHP 150/hr (this might have increased already). Before taking the Calesa it would be best to negotiate first with the driver and choose one that is the Department of Tourism accredited. One Calesa can bring up to four (4) persons.

a portion of the beautiful landscape of the Baluarte – Vigan City Tourist Spot

BALUARTE ZOO

Another tourist attraction in Vigan City is the Baluarte privately owned by Chavet Singson. From the complex, you will see Chavit Singson’s grand multi-story house sitting on the hill.

Must Read: BALUARTE

Another popular product of Ilocos is the Abel Iloco. This traditional woven product is known to be colorful and strong that is made from yarns of cotton or “sagut” sourced from various places in northern Luzon. The process of making the Abel labor-intensive and weavers must have the skills in manipulating the wooden handloom.

Hidden Garden – Vigan City Tourist Spot

HIDDEN GARDEN

The hidden garden is one place where people visit in the area. The garden also offers nice cuisines and delicacies.

The Dancing Fountain – Vigan City Tourist Spot

EXPERIENCE VIGAN CUISINES

Empanada, and longganisa… just a few of the iconic local dishes. When visiting the historic city, don’t forget to try their cuisines offered in various establishments found at the place. Ilocano cuisines can be distinguished by the sweetness, sourness or saltiness of the food. For the adventurous travelers, the food stall or carinderias in the Vigan City Public market are a nice place for gastronomic adventures. Try the bagnet, longganisa, Ilocos crispy dinuguan, and pinakbet along with a bottle of basi or local sugarcane wine.

Another must-try delicacy in Ilocos Sur is their Tinubong. Tinubong is a ground malagkit (sticky rice) stuck inside a bamboo. To eat the Tinubong, one must literally smash the bamboo to break it and eat what is inside.

Tinubong, Ilocos Sur’s native delicacy

TIPS WHEN TRAVELING TO VIGAN CITY, ILOCOS SUR

Wear your most comfortable attire when traveling.
Visiting Tourist Attractions of the place may require some walking, it would be best to wear your comfortable walking shoes.
You don’t want to get burnt by the heat of the sun, so wearing sunscreen is highly recommended.
During my last visit I had a difficulty of finding one so to be sure, bring it before leaving your home.
You might also want to bring a foldable umbrella, especially when visiting the place during the wet season.
There weren’t much of mosquitos during my visit to Vigan City, but for those who are highly sensitive, just bring a small bottle of Insect repellant Lotion with you.
You will surely take a lot of photographs during your trip, so don’t forget to bring your camera with extra memory cards.
You will be hitting the road most of the time, so don’t forget to bring your power bank to keep your mobile phone alive.
While drugstores are found in the area it would still be best to bring your own medicine especially if you have some maintenance.

Pin Me! Calle Crisologo, Vigan City Tourist Spot

GETTING AROUND VIGAN CITY TOURIST SPOTS

While the Calesa is a nice mode of transportation reaching quite a distant destination can be reached easily through a tricycle. It would be best to negotiate first with the driver regarding the fare before hopping in. Of course, the air-conditioned Van is very comfortable when visiting several places, especially during the summer. Several Van for rent is available in the city. Just ask your hotel where to contact them.

HOW TO GET TO VIGAN CITY , ILOCOS SUR

The nearest airport in Ilocos Sur is the one found in Laoag, Ilocos Norte. From Laoag, take a bus going to Vigan City.

There are buses traveling from Manila to Ilocos Sur such as Partas Buses, Dominion Bus Lines, Aniceto Bus, and Viron Transit. Travel time from Manila is approximately 8 10 hours covering 408-kilometer ride.

BUS COMPANIES CONTACT DETAILS:

PARTAS TRANSPORTATION COMPANY, INCORPORATED 816 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Telephone Numbers: +63 (2) 7257303 | +63 (2) 7249820 | +63 (2) 4101307 | +63 (2) 4145097 | +63 (2) 7251756 | +63 (2) 4162809 | +63 (2) 4146094

Vigan, Bus Terminal Alcantara Street, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Philippines Telephone Numbers: +63 (77) 7222933 | +63 (77) 7222935

PARTAS BUS SCHEDULE AND FARE (http://www.phbus.com/partas-bus/) as of 2017 Route: Cubao Quezon City, Metro Manila to Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

First Class : 7:00 PM – Php 665.00 Deluxe : 10:00 PM – Php 805.00 First Class:10:00 PM – Php 665.00

DOMINION BUS LINES Terminals : Quezon Avenue, Vigan City – Tel. # +63 77 722-2084 Dapitan, Sampaloc, Manila – Tel. # +63 2 7414146

MARTINEZ TRANS Terminal: Candon – Tel. # (077) 742-6007

VIRON TRANSPORTATION COMPANY Terminals: Quinarayan, Narvacan – Tel. # +63 77 722-2053 Dapitan, Sampaloc, Manila – Tel. # +63 2 7416588

CANDON BUS LINE Terminal: Candon – Tel. # +63 77 742-6087

Vigan City Tourist Spot

LIST OF HOTELS IN VIGAN CITY

You can book a room with any hotels below. Just click the link and it will bring you to the booking site.

CHEAP HOTELS IN VIGAN CITY

Casa Rica Hotel 88 Quirino Blvd. corner Abaya st., Pantay Daya, Philippines, 2700 BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

Balai Mestizo Travelodge Barangay Capangpangan, Pantay Daya, Philippines, 2700 BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

NSCC Plaza Hotel Caoayan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, 2702

OveMar Resort Hotel Paratong, Sta. Catalina, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

My Vigan Home Hotel 14 Plaridel corner Bonifacio Streets, Pantay Daya, Philippines, 2700 BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

Vigan Ergo Hotel Ergo Building, J. Alcantara St., Pantay Daya, Philippines, 2700

Hotel Veneto de Vigan Annex Bonifacio, Pantay Daya , Philippines, 2700 BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

Damejos place Flores Street, Cabaroan Daya, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, 2700

MEDIUM TO HIGH PRICED HOTELS IN VIGAN CITY

Metro Vigan Inn Bed & Breakfast Hotel Bayubay Norte, San Vicente, San Vicente, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, 2726 BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

MelSol Hotel National Highway, Bantay, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, 2727

Hotel Luna De Los Reyes Corner Gen, Luna St., Pantay Daya BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

Gordion Hotel V. Delos Reyes corner Salcedo Sts., Pantay Daya, Philippines BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

CM Star Suites E. Arranz Street, San Julian Sur, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, 2700

West Loch Park Hotel Manila North Road, Sto. Domingo, Town Proper, Philippines

BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

Hotel Felicidad 9 V de los Reyes St corner Florentino St, Pantay Daya, Philippines, 2700

Escolta’s Homey Lodge Crisologo St., Town Proper, Philippines, 2700 BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

One Vittoria Hotel National Highway, Cabalanggan, Bantay, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, 2727

Metro Vigan Fiesta Garden Hotel National Highway, Guimod, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, 2727

Cordillera Inn 29 Mena Crisologo Street, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, 2700 BOOK A ROOM HERE AND GET THE BEST DEAL

Must Read: LIST HOTELS AND INNS IN VIGAN CITY

VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS + TRAVEL GUIDE | PHILIPPINES

Bantay Bellfry, Vigan City Tourist Spot

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Based on my understanding this place represents the past era wherein we where once under in the colony of Spaniards. It shows and reminds us that we Filipinos stood up against the tyranny of Spanish government, our heroes shed their blood and resisted the oppressors to free our country. In other words, this place is reminding us that we should be proud of our culture and embrace diversity wholeheartedly. For me to make this place more attractive in the eyes of tourist , we should always keep the environment clean and free from any form of pollution that might affect the experience of visitors. Therefore, we should implement strict policies in maintaining the cleanliness and order in the place. And most of all employees in tourism should always promote the place by showing to the tourist the hospitality and culture of the people to form understanding and good relationship.

Absolutely beautiful, I certainly didn’t know there was so many wonderful things to do while visiting. I especially love the Hidden Garden and the Dancing Fountains.

It looks wonderful. I am planning a trip to Philippines within the next 3 years, this was very helpful. Thank you

The Philippines look so beautiful. I have some relatives from there. I have to get them to take me one of these….great post and great pictures!

Thank you Kaitlynn. You have more reasons to visit the country. You will surely love the Philippines

I haven’t been back to the Philippines since I was a kid, but this is a great recap of this city! Thanks for sharing all of this info!

Hi Marlynn, oh you should go back and explore…the Philippines is a paradise

I love reading your articles. While I do not have the opportunity to travel anymore it is something that my heart desires. My home is even decorated in a travel / world culture theme. Your articles are so specific and really get into detail on specific locations in various places in the world. Just like in the USA where I am from things can be very different from city to city within the same state. I love how your blog takes me directly into the heart of a specific location. I get my virtual travel through you!

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VIGAN TRAVEL GUIDE | Itinerary + Budget + Map [UPDATED 2022]

Vigan Travel Guide Blog Itinerary Budget

Vigan is a city located on the northwestern coast of Luzon in the Philippines. It is the capital of the Ilocos Sur province and the only UNESCO World Heritage City in the country. Recently, it won as one of the New Seven Wonders Cities of the World. The main draw of Vigan City are its well-preserved Bahay na Bato structures located at the Meztizo District, its historical core. Currently, there are 187 listed ancestral houses in town. Besides this, it also boasts of beautiful colonial churches, a plaza that comes alive with a fountain show at night, a free-roaming zoo and numerous historical museums. The city’s cuisine is also quite interesting and numerous restaurants around the area makes it readily accessible to visitors. There is no denying the popularity of Vigan City for the typical tourist and even veteran travelers. And for those planning to visit it anytime soon, here’s an intensive travel guide, complete with a 2-day and 3-day sample itinerary for a DIY tour of the Vigan City.

HOW TO GET TO VIGAN CITY

Vigan City is located 408 kilometers away from Manila. Although there is an airstrip in the city, it is mainly used as a runway for chartered flights. Commercial flights are available via Skyjet, but these are few and far between. One option is to fly to Laoag City, and from there, take a two-hour bus ride to Vigan From Manila, the usual way to get to Vigan City is by taking a bus. The trip takes about eight to ten hours long. Most tourists, including myself, take the night trip to sleep off the long ride and arrive at the city early the next morning.

SPEAK VIGAN

HOW TO GET AROUND VIGAN CITY

Tricyles and karitelas (horse-drawn carriages) are the main mode of transportation in Vigan City. Getting around is easy enough since one can practically hail these two at any area within the city center. Minimum fare for both is at ₱15.00 per person, rising up to ₱20.00 or more as one gets farther out. To avoid being charged more than the usual, be sure to board legit tricycle operators as indicated by a large Vigan plate up its roof.

VIGAN ORGANIZED / PACKAGED TOURS

Tours around Vigan City can either be availed via tricycles or karitela . While I prefer the latter for a more complete old-world experience, the former can be convenient especially if you’re pressed for time. Tour fees are computed at ₱150.00 per hour, per vehicle. A karitela can comfortably seat four individuals, so the more you are within the coach, the cheaper it is. Alternatively, hotels and lodgings, especially high-end ones, also offer tours via air-conditioned vans and even tuktuk . There are also a few places where one can rent bicycles, if you prefer a more hands-on experience (₱150.00/day).

WHERE TO STAY IN VIGAN CITY

There are numerous places to stay while in Vigan City. There are backpacker inns, moderately-priced lodges and luxurious hotels to choose from. The most interesting accommodations are renovated ancestral houses converted as lodgings. It’s also preferable to find a place near the Meztizo District where Calle Crisologo is located since most of the tourist spots and restaurants are only a hop away from there.

WHERE TO EAT IN VIGAN CITY

Whether you’re looking for authentic Ilocano cuisine, traditional Filipino meals or the comfort of western dishes, Vigan City has it all. Restaurants, cafés and even fast-food chains abound in the city. Be sure to also check out the street food carinderia scenes in the area for a legit taste of Bigueño eats. A list of must-eat in Vigan includes empanada , okoy , longanisa , bagnet, and poqui-poqui .

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN VIGAN CITY

Vigan City thrives because of its history, so expect a lot of historical walks and museums in the area. From old colonial churches, cobblestone street, to restored ancestral houses; history buffs would have a field day roaming around town. But besides these, the city also offers other attractions; it has a black sand beach, a free-roaming zoo, pottery shops and abel textile workstations.

FESTIVALS IN VIGAN CITY

WHAT TO BUY IN VIGAN CITY

There are only a few other places in the country as abundant in souvenirs as Vigan City. The amount of keepsakes one can buy while in the city is staggering. The town’s shopping center is located at its most famous street, Calle Crisologo. Be sure to bring enough cash (and extra bags) if you plan to bring some stuff home.

VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS MAP

VIGAN SAMPLE ITINERARIES

Vigan City can be toured in one whole day. During my first visit, since I didn’t know where the tourist attractions were, I hired a kalesa to tour me around the city. Since it charges by the hour, I just let it show me where the interesting locations are in the city without me going down to save on tour expenses. The only place I went down was at the Hidden Garden, which is located at the fringes of town and would be impractical to walk to. After the tour, I simply walked to all the tourist spots on my own. The good thing about this is that I was able to savor each location without always thinking about how much my cucero or driver would be charging me right after. The downside is you would be walking a lot. Alternatively, one can simply ride a tricycle or kalesa to go from one spot to another for a minimum fare of ₱15.00. The far areas, like Mindoro Beach, Baluarte and the tourist spots in Caoayan are of course much more expensive to go to, haggle with your driver before boarding. Below, I listed a typical day tour, two-day and three-day Vigan itinerary. One can actually go back to Manila in the morning of the second day if one so wishes, but to cover everything, I suggest you go back in the evenings instead. The third day I outlined mostly takes on sites outside Vigan City, but still near enough to access on the way back to Manila.

► VIGAN ONE DAY ITINERARY / DAY TOUR / DAYTRIP

₱1,075.00 PER PERSON (GROUP OF TWO)

• Early morning arrival • Breakfast (Recommendation: Kusina Felicitas) ₱150.00 | AVERAGE BREAKFAST MEAL WITH DRINKS • Avail of Karitela Tour ₱300.00 | ₱150.00/HOUR RATE, WILL TAKE ABOUT 3-4HOURS Bantay Church Bell Tower Burgos Museum Syquia Mansion ₱75.00 ENTRANCE FEE Arce Mansion ₱50.00 ENTRANCE FEE Crisologo Museum Simbaan a Bassit Pagburnayan Pottery Hidden Garden (Lunch) Mindoro Beach Baluarte • Lunch at Lilong & Lilang Cafe at Hidden Garden ₱200.00 | AVERAGE BREAKFAST MEAL WITH DRINKS • Continue Karitela Tour • Finish tour at Calle Crisologo, buy souvenirs ₱??.00 | ABSOLUTELY UP TO YOU • Visit Burgos Plaza and Vigan Cathedral • Afternoon snack at Plaza Burgos Empanadahan ₱100.00 | AVERAGE MEAL WITH DRINKS • Watch Dancing Fountain show at Plaza Salcedo • Dinner (Recommendation: Cafe Leona) ₱200.00 | AVERAGE MEAL WITH DRINKS • Depart Vigan

► VIGAN TWO DAYS ITINERARY

DAY ONE | ₱1,130.00 PER PERSON (GROUP OF TWO)

• Early morning arrival • Check in at hotel (leave bags at the lobby if early check in isn’t allowed) ₱530.00 | CHEAPEST AVAILABLE HOTEL VIA AGODA (₱1,060.00 2PAX) • Breakfast (Recommendation: Kusina Felicitas) ₱150.00 | AVERAGE BREAKFAST MEAL WITH DRINKS • Do a Vigan Walking Tour Burgos Museum Syquia Mansion Arce Mansion Crisologo Museum Simbaan a Bassit Pagburnayan Pottery • Lunch (Recommendation: Lampong’s Restaurant) ₱150.00 | AVERAGE BREAKFAST MEAL WITH DRINKS • Visit Calle Crisologo, buy souvenirs ₱??.00 | ABSOLUTELY UP TO YOU • Visit Hotel Luna Art Gallery • Visit Burgos Plaza and Vigan Cathedral • Afternoon snack at Plaza Burgos Empanadahan ₱100.00 | AVERAGE MEAL WITH DRINKS • Watch Dancing Fountain show at Plaza Salcedo • Dinner (Recommendation: Cafe Leona) ₱200.00 | AVERAGE MEAL WITH DRINKS

DAY TWO | ₱700.00 PER PERSON (GROUP OF TWO)

• Breakfast ₱0.00 | COMPLIMENTARY HOTEL BREAKFAST • Early hotel check out (Leave bags at the lobby) • Avail of Karitela Tour ₱300.00 | ₱150.00/HOUR RATE, WILL TAKE ABOUT 3-4HOURS Mindoro Beach Hidden Garden Baluarte Abel Loom Weaving Center Pinakbet Farm (Lunch) ₱200.00 | AVERAGE MEAL WITH DRINKS Bantay Church Bell Tower • Dinner ₱200.00 | AVERAGE MEAL WITH DRINKS • Depart Vigan

► ₱1,830.00 ~ TOTAL BUDGET FOR A TWO-DAY TOUR PER PERSON BASED ON A GROUP OF TWO

► VIGAN THREE DAYS ITINERARY

• Follow previous Day One itinerary

DAY TWO | ₱1,230.00 PER PERSON (GROUP OF TWO)

• Follow previous Day Two itinerary (But don’t check out of the hotel just yet) ₱530.00 | CHEAPEST AVAILABLE HOTEL VIA AGODA (₱1,060.00 2PAX)

DAY THREE | ₱1,265.00 PER PERSON (GROUP OF TWO)

• Breakfast ₱0.00 | COMPLIMENTARY HOTEL BREAKFAST • Hotel check out (Leave bags at the lobby) ₱530.00 | CHEAPEST AVAILABLE HOTEL VIA AGODA (₱1,060.00 2PAX) • Visit Banaoang Bridge ₱10.00 | APPROXIMATE JEEP FARE FROM VIGAN CITY • Ride the Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone Zipline ₱500.00 | TWO-WAY ZIPLINE • Visit Narvacan Shrine ₱15.00 | APPROXIMATE JEEP FARE • Lunch at Narvacan ₱200.00 | AVERAGE MEAL WITH DRINKS • Visit Santa Maria Church (UNESCO World Heritage Site) ₱10.00 | APPROXIMATE JEEP FARE • Go back to Vigan / Depart

► ₱3,625.00 ~ TOTAL BUDGET FOR A THREE-DAY TOUR PER PERSON BASED ON A GROUP OF TWO

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

If you have more time on hand and you still have some days left before going back home, Vigan City is a good jump-off point to extend your vacation up the northern parts of the Philippines. Here are some of the places you can easily go to.

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150 comments.

Wow!!!! Kinakabog ang Lonely Planet! Pero this is really useful. Nice one Idol!

Thanks Darwin! San na mga blog mo about Vigan?! :D

Imbahhhh! Speechless! Parang taga-Vigan lang kung makagawa ng guide oh!

Salamat Edmar! If you have something to add to the travel guide, just let me know ha! :)

lahat ba ng attractions, museums, shops open monday to sunday??? tnx

Most are open the whole week, except for the museums, which are closed on Mondays

can you give us an estimated cost for the 3-day itinerary? :)

Budget for a Vigan trip would be different from group to group, depending on where do you plan to stay, how many meals would you eat in a day and where would you want to eat. It all depends on how lavish or how thrifty you are with your money.

Beautiful place in the Philippines : Vigan is a 5th class city in the province of Ilocos Cur, Philippines and the capital province of http://dailycome.com/philippines-visiting-in-the-city-of-vigan-ilocos-sur/

I always wanted to visit Vigan. The tips on this blog is so helpful. Amongst all I've read, this one's perfect 👌and will be my travel guide. Thank you ☺

No problem Christine! Enjoy your Vigan trip! :)

I was looking for a Vigan itinerary and of course the first thing I visit is your site! :) Thanks for this Christian! By the way, I have a new consolidated travel & lifestyle blog over on Sunset Goddess Manila . Hope you get to visit me over there! Cheers!

Long time no hear ah! I'm sure you'll have lots of fun in Vigan, don't forget to bring home some longanisa and bagnet! :)

Hello, I would just to ask anyone of you where can you find affordable van rental (all-in) from Manila to Ilocos places? Thanks a lot!

Hi.. please check Q10 Travel and Tours for your trips to Ilocos..

May car/van rentals po ba sa vigan?

Hi August, van rentals within Vigan you mean? Vigan is very small, I would suggest renting a karitela or a horse-drawn carriage instead :)

thanks sa itinerary very usefull lalo na sa mga first timer na gustong mag roundtrip.. :p

You're welcome, this Vigan travel guide is really made for first time visitors in the city :)

Very very helpful guide.

Thank you Larraine, enjoy Vigan City!

Hi will the museums be open on Nov 1 & 2?

Hi Almarie, sorry for the late reply. I have no idea if the museums are open on holidays. Were you able to get in?

thank you for this very helpful blog..... is there a lodge or inn at the Mindoro beach yung cheap lang thanks

Yes, there is an old resort right beside Vigan's beach :)

Paki-add ang mga programs at awards ng vigan. Project kasi namin. PLS.

Hi, sure that would be great! Could you link me to a page where I can find those info? Or could you email them to me? :)

Very informative. Thank you! I'll go to Vigan! Sana hindi ako mawala. 😆

Hi Jana, for sure you won't get lost in Vigan, it's not that big, really :)

Haha, hindi ka mawawala sa Vigan. Kung sakali man, just ask around for directions, Vigan peeps are very friendly :)

Hi, I wil be going to vigan next month and I am planning to rent a bicycle, I was wondering if it is safe to bike as I will plan to bike from vigan heritage to the mindoro beach.

From what I've personally seen, it looks quite safe to bike around Vigan, even all the way to Mindoro Beach

Very helpful blog...thank you

Thank you Ley, enjoy your Vigan trip :)

Hi.. may I know how much will it cost per person. please reply. thanks much!! ☺

Your Vigan budget would depend greatly on where you'll be staying and how often and where you're gonna eat

Need a Trip-Advice of Planning a 4/5 Day-Trip to Vigan City Hi ! We are tertiary students (a lady and gentleman), have searched from websites to learn that there will be a week-long celebration of “art-festival” in May in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, two of us tourists from Hong Kong attempt to travel Vigan City to join such an amazing experience for a Four to Five-days (4 ~ 5) trip, the details of the trip are followings :– 4 days trip – 01/05 (Sunday morning am) – 04/05/2016 (Wednesday evening pm); or 5 days trip – 30/04 (Saturday evening pm) – 04/05/2016 (Wednesday) We have a numbers of Questions as follows :– What is the shorter or faster ways (transportation) to get Vigan City such as direct flight to Laoag City, Baguio–Loakan Airport, or Tuguegarao Airport, to shorten the long–distant transportation, 1–hour bus travelling from Laoag City to Vigan City instead of 6–hour bus travelling from Manila to Vigan City ? How many flight within (to and from) Manila and Laoag City ? Another problems is public security or social problem in Philippines. As you know since the Manila hostage crisis that seven Hong Kong tourists were killed in 2010. My brother told me he went to a countryside in Kalusunan a couple of years ago and felt unsafety there. As you know since the Manila hostage crisis that seven Hong Kong tourists were killed in 2010. We worry about the public security problems. But I read many websites described Vigan city, those tourists after travelling the city told they felt comfortable and enjoyed so much. Is there safety or any social security problems there, could any of you give us any travelling tips, to avoid any tricks, or help for tourist if any problems ? Does it provided any RELIABLE Local Guide or Local Tours travelling Vigan City ? If any, how much does the product cost ? In what currency ? Thank you very much for your above advices

The shortest way is via Laoag airport. The airport in Baguio is no longer operational. There are about three flights daily to Laoag via Manila. Vigan is very, very safe. No need to worry about security. Tours can be availed via the many kalesa (horse-drawn carriages) around the city. Tours are paid in peso. Fees are set at P150.00 per hour. Hope you enjoy your Vigan tour!

Christian Sangoyo, Firstly, thank you very much for your reply here indeed. Your in depth and amazing introduction with the available links for the travaling spots of Vigan City become my major reference of tour guide. WELL DONE !! However, could you give me one more your advice that, both of us tourists, put forwards our trips, that we are going to a 5D4N trips Vigan and Laoag (and Pagudpud if time allows) the forthcoming Easter 25-29/03/2016. As we have learnt of the rich religious and cultural influences in Vigan and Laoag, we would like to experience such a holy Easter there, but we wonder if all shops and services such as caterings and souvenir shops will be closed due to the regular holiday between the coming Easter, would you offer us any more opinions please ? Thank you very much for your advice. Looking forwards to hearing from you soon. May god bless you !! Cheers !! Vivienne.

Hi Vivienne, I haven't celebrated Easter at Vigan yet, but if I were to guess, the shops and restaurants would be open, with only a few closing down. The reason, a lot of Filipinos generally travel during the Easter break.

One more question that We wonder if all shops and services such as caterings and souvenir shops will be CLOSED A BIT EARLIER OR EVEN CLOSED due to the regular holiday between the coming Easter, would you offer us any more opinions please ? Thank you !! Vivienne

During Good Friday and Black Saturday, there might be some shops that would close, but I don't think all the shops would close. :)

Thank you so much for your opinions my friend !! I think both of us tourists will rest assured to enjoy our Vigan and Laoag tour the forthcoming Easter !!

No problem Vivienne, update me regarding your Vigan trip! :)

As a first time back-packer, this is really a huge help. KUDOS! :) I will be planning more escapades alone in the future and I will surely refer to your blog, Sir. :)

Hi Grae, Vigan was also the first place I backpacked solo!

Hello, How much po estimate per head sa 3D tour?

Hi Jezreel, will post a trip budget section soon :)

Hello Christian! Im from Vigan, Iloco is the dialect of Ilocanos/Bigueños. Thank you for your remarks. :)

Hi! Thank you for that, will update this Vigan guide soon :)

Hello! Im travelling to Vigan this coming month, and planning to do a side trip to Baguio. And acc. to what I have read, PARTAS bus trans. offers VIGAN-BAGUIO TRIP. May I know what are the departure time and rates of PARTAS. Thank you in advance, and your blog is super helpful!

Hi Gerrlene, a Vigan-Baguio tour sounds great! Unfortunately, I don't have a detailed schedule regarding Partas' Vigan-Baguio route. I suggest you call them up. :)

Hi, Me and my friends are planning to visit Vigan by our own car. Do you think is it advisable na magdala ng car or better commute na lang? And aside from that, Can you tell me kung anong hotel ang maayos and affordable to stay in which is malapit lang sa tourist atttaction. By the way, we're travelling with kids. thank you...

Hi Raymon, Vigan by car is good since you can stop on a few other spots on your way to Vigan. The only downside is it can be quite tiring due to the long drive. For accommodation, Grandpa's Inn is quite close to Calle Crisologo and is not that expensive. :)

Hello Christian Sangoyo.Gusto namin mag vacation in Vigan ng Girlfriend ko, taga Pampanga pa kasi kame, ask ko lang if paano makaka punta sa Vigan, saan kami sasakay? and if ever ilan bus, then sana sa pa balik din namin ng pampanga anu yung magiging route ng bus. salamat

Hi Gabriel, buses bound for Vigan pass thru Dau bus terminal, you can board from there straight to Vigan. The only thing is, you have to take a chance regarding the seats since buses might leave full from Manila :)

another Question Sir Christian ng check ako ng mga hotel sa vigan, my alam ka ba na mag kano yung per night ng hotel sir?. yung sana mejo mura?

Hi Gabriel, you may check Agoda to sort the prices for hotels: http://www.agoda.com/?cid=1649989

Hello sir. Nagpplan po kami umalis ng friend ko at pumunta ng Vigan ng katapusan nitong May. Dalawa lang po kami. If ever, how much po per person ang kailangan naming dalhin? Okay na po ba per person ang 1600.00? Included na ang fare, foods, and transpo sa Vigan.. Guto lang po kasi namin ng matipid yet memorable trip. Please reply. <3 Thanks

Him sorry for the delayed response. P1,600 is a bit too low for a budget since the fare itself from Manila is at P600 one way. I'll put up a budget section here in the future :)

Hi Christian. I'll be traveling to Vigan for 3days on September alone. I'll be using your blog as my travel guide. As much as possible, Id be visiting all what u have shared in here. But can you suggest a hotel for me? I just need a clean and cheap hotel/inn where I can sleep at night, place my bag and shower. I;ll be out all day til night exploring Vigan.

Hi Cherry, I usually recommend Grandpa's Inn, it's set on a real ancestral house, it's cheap and it's just a minute by foot from Calle Crisologo. :)

Thank you. I'll check the place out.

how long is the estimated traveltime from manila?

As posted above, Vigan is about 8 to 10 hours by bus from Manila

Hi christian we are from bacolod negros occidental me, my husband and my little 1yr old girl planning to visit vigan this year my concern is meron bang air transportation going vigan from bacolod? Im considering my baby kasi sa way na buss manila to vigan 8-10hr

Hi, unfortunately, there are no flights going in to Vigan

i will travelling tomorrow. and i am reading your blog for about months already. just wan to know if the itenirary can walk?

Yes, most of the places are walking distance from each other :)

i am a solo traveler and i am following your itinerary.. please let me know fare for this? since i dont have car. and do you have how much is the cost? will it be safe to trave alone?

It is quite safe to travel alone in Vigan. As for the fare, I listed them above :)

thanks for this! I find this very useful.. I just want to know, how will I avail the kalesa tour?

Hi there, there are a lot of kalesa available near the plaza. Just ask one of them :)

hi po baka po you may want to rent an innova..you may contact us at 09323535742.. we will give you a big discount.. thanks

hello po .. punta po kami vigan sa 29-30 galing po kami baguio at biyahe kami ng 8 am mga kahpon nanjan na po kami advice naman po san hotel na mura or inn na maganda at very low price but quality namalapit lang sa tourist spot para ma sulit namin oras salamat po sa sagott

by the way dalawa lang po kami ng asawa ko.. is 10000 very good budget na ? pero tipid padin sana kami sa hotel para mas madami kami mabili na pasalubong

Hi! Ask lang po ano kaya magandang itenirary if we want to go to pagudpud ,sand dunes and wind mill? Okay na po kaya ang 3 days 2 nights if we will copy your itenirary plus pagudpud, sand dunes and wind mill?.. May entrance fee po ba sa mga museum? Thank you. God bless

3 days and 2 nights for Vigan plus Pagudpud, Sand Dunes and Bangui Windmill is doable, especially if you have a car. Museums charge minimum entrance fees, less than a hundred pesos per head :)

Hi Christian, good job for this one. Just want to comment on the translation of Good evening. I guess it is more appropriate to use "Naimbag a rabii". And this is the most commonly used. :-) An ilokano reader here. :-)

Hi, thank you for that! Updated the language section :)

Hi, are there overnight buses traveling from Vigan to Baguio? How late or how early are the trips? Thank you.

Hi Aian, I'm not sure if there are overnight Vigan to Baguio buses. Better check with them directly.

Hello po pwede po bang magtanong anu po ang mabuting transportasyon papunta ng vigan ? Kasi po ang boyfriend ko Hindi gusto ng bus

There's no other public transpo going to Vigan besides buses. What you can do, if you want to ride via vans, is to join tour groups from Manila

Hi! So helpful ng blog mo. Hopefully mapuntahan namin ng boyfriend ko lahat ng places na nakaindicate dito. Salamat :-)

Hi Fatima! How many days are you staying in Vigan? Enjoy your trip!

Good eve po Kc pg pupunta aq ng vigan sa may partas po ung hotel n pgsstayan q ok lng po b n sa my cubao aq sumakay ppnta ng Vigan bka po kc mli ung bus n masakyan q

Hi, yes you may ride any buses going to Vigan from Cubao. It's quite easy to get around Vigan City by tricycle or even by walking, once there.

Thank you so much po pte if ever po anong hotel ang recommended mo n ok pg stayan for couple ?

Hi Kallen, I usually stay at Grandpa's Inn since I'm on a budget. But if you have cash to spare, there are much more luxurious hotels in Vigan. You may check this link: https://www.agoda.com/city/vigan-ph.html?cid=1649989

Hi! Sa mga inn's ba dapat magpareserve ka habang nasa manila or kaya naman na pagdating na lang sa vigan?

Hi Kaycee, you may reserve at Grandpa's Inn from Manila :)

Hi sir Christian, ask ko lang wer exact located yung partas terminal sa cubao? Are they operating everyday going to Vigan?

Partas Cubao is along Aurora Boulevard. If your on the southbound traffic on Edsa, it's on the right. Yes, they have daily trips to Vigan.

Thanks Christian! Anyway, malapit lang ba yung Grandpa's Inn sa bababaan ng bus? Im coming from Manila and it's my first time kasi, tapos solo pa kaya hindi ko alam :) Plus, I'm planning to take the night trip, kung 6-8hrs yung travel time, hindi ako makakapag stay agad sa Grandpa's Inn, right? Any suggestions? Thanks!

Hi Kaycee, Grandpa's Inn is near the bus stations in Vigan. If you have a big luggage, you can ride a tricycle for a minimal fee. Vigan is quite small, you'll be there in no time. Regarding early check in, better call them if they would allow it. When I stayed there before, they let me check in early. If it's not possible, just leave your bag at the lobby and tour Vigan first until check in time :)

After vigan po sana gusto ko pumunta ng bangui wind mills, malayo po ba yon from vigan?

Hi, the Bangui Windmills is just an hour or so away from Vigan. There are buses going there regularly from the city. :)

This is one very useful and helpful blog. My family will surely use your guide. Hopefully we can go to the places you have listed here. Thanks! :)

Hi Edna! Thanks for finding my Vigan travel blog helpful :)

thank you so much for the info about Vigan actualy i have research paper about vigan and this one is very helpful for my report, thank u so much.

Hi Arsiel, glad to be of help! What's your Vigan report about?

I really enjoy reading your blog. very informative and detailed. Can you give an advise reagrding Pros & Cons if mag-travel kami during holy week (Mon-wed)? We really appreciate that. God bless

Hi Ricky, there is only cons in traveling to Vigan during the holy week. Everything is going to be full and there would be a huge crowd around Calle Crisologo. Better if you reschedule your trip on date that's not a holiday

I'm planning to travel to Vigan this summer and I'm from Santiago City, Isabela what particular buss travels direct to Vigan? Thank you

Hi Evelyn, I haven't really tried going to Vigan via Isabela yet. But I'm sure there are buses that can connect the two together. Do share your bus trip here after you've visited Vigan please :)

I'm thankful for this informative blog coz I'm planning to visit Vigan this holy week and it will surely a big help for someone like me that is first timer in this City. Kudos to the author!

Hope you enjoyed your Vigan trip! :)

Sir, sabi nang nakapuntang friend ko mahal daw po ang binibiling tubig sa vigan, advisable po ba magdala nang tubig para makatipid :) pupunta po kasi kami ngaung april 20-23 17 po kami at sa group tour po kami

May mga covenience stores naman po dun, but it would definitely help if you bring your own reusable water bottle :)

hi can i ask if how often ang bus trips from vigan going to cubao, especially this holy week. cant hold any online bus booking, so chances are we are going to buy ticket when we are at vigan na. pls advise on this

Hi, sorry but the frequency of trips to and from Vigan changes depending on the season and the whims of the bus companies. Better call them :)

Sir your blog is very helpful. I'm planning to visit vigan and I'm a solo traveller. I was just wondering meron bang cheap lodges/accomodation around 300-500 per night (just like in baguio.) na nagoffer near sa bus terminal na babaan or sa calle crisologo? I'm worried where to stay when I get there. Short budget lang 6k for 2 days

No need to find a hotel near the terminal, Vigan is very small. You can find cheap inns around town. 6k is more than enough for two days

hi! can i do this for 1 day tour in vigan?

Yes, you can definitely do Vigan on a day tour

Any suggestion where we can leave our things since we just want day tour in vigan and go straight to Laoag.

Hi Jan, that seems like a problem since there are really no malls in Vigan where you can leave your bags. What you can do instead, is rent a karitela to tour around Vigan, that way you can just leave your things at the carriage while you explore the town's tourist spots.

May byahe po ba going laoag from monumento near lrt station.

Hi Gladz, there are currently no bus going to Vigan from Monumento.

Hi, do you know for the recommended inn there? clean and OK for the budget. Thank you

I usually recommend Grandpa's Inn. But if you want the lowest price, you may check here https://www.agoda.com/city/vigan-ph.html?cid=1649989

Hi Christian, Let's say 2 peolke are to take Day 1 and half of Day 2, what's the estimated total cost of vacation?

Hi Chrein, traveling around in Vigan is not that expensive. Will post a detailed budget guide soon, but I'd say 2,000 pesos is more than enough.

Thank you very much Christian. I appreciate it. 😊

No problem! Enjoy your Vigan trip :)

Hello sir! Thank you so much for this. Really helpful for our upcaoming trip. Ask ko lang po. Since we are traveling from Manila-Baguio and Vigan. We want to go to Bangui Windmills. Ikang hours po ba? And do you have IT for that too? Your reaponse is very much appreciated, Sir! God Bless

Hi Korene, the Bangui windmills is about two hours away from Vigan by car. By bus, it's about 2.5 to 3 hours :)

Hi thanks for this blog, we're planning to spend our Christmas in Vigan. I just want to know kung open po ung mga pasyalan this coming Christmas? thanks.

Hi Joyce, yes, I would assume that most of the tourist spots in Vigan are open during Christmas

Hello? I just saw your blog when i was looking for direction on how to go to Ilocos. I tried visiting travel fb pages but they dont have sched for the date im free so i think ill just go there alone. Good thing i found your blog to help me out. Im scared though coz ill by myself and im a woman. This will be my first time traveling as far as Ilocos. I hope its safe. I dont know if you can or you are allowed to do so but, can you please message me in fb messenger? Never mind. I'll do the things you have in this blog so im not like a lost stray tourist haha! Thanks for your blog. Great help

Hi Emily, Vigan is very safe even for solo female travelers. You have nothing to worry about. :)

Hi sir, thank you for the helpful guide, ask ko lang po, how much po yung night stay in grandpas’ inn?? Pls reply po.. thank you so much

Hi Patty, please contact Grandpa's Inn directly for an updated room rates :)

Hi po sir.. may direct na bus trip po ba from manila to vigan? thank you po Godbless

Hi, yes there are direct buses from Manila to Vigan. I listed them on the article above :)

Please put some business hours so that we may see up until when the tourist spot is available, thank you

Will do that on the next update, thanks for the suggestion :)

How can I avail the Karitela Tour? Thanks

You can avail of Vigan's Karitela tours at the plaza area. Just talk to one of the many kucheros in the area, they basically have the same rates :)

sir maiikot po ba namin mga sikat na pasyalan sa vigan from 12noon to 9pm including baluarte? ano po magandang gawin o unahin para masulit po namin ung 9hrs, salamat,

yes, you can visit a lot of places in Vigan from 12pm to 9pm. I suggest you visit the museums first, since they close by 5pm or so, then baluarte, then the other areas that are still open by night. Take a kalesa tour, so the driver can recommend which places to go to first

Your blog is marvelous. We are traveling to Vigan with a toddler any recommendation?

Hi, Vigan is a good place to visit even if you have kids. What are you particularly looking for? :)

Your posts are very thorough and informative. I was born and raised in the Philippines but I never made it to this place. Thanks for this post, I will be adding this to my must-see places in the Philippines the next time I'm in the country.

You should indeed visit Vigan! It's one of the more interesting places in the Philippines

Hi! I am very amazed by your blog. Every tip in your blog is so useful. The way you promote the place it is like you are a local there. It is very informative. I found it very essential especially when I want to travel and when I really am on a tight budget. It has many options from budget, midrange, and luxury. It encouraged me to visit the place. It gives me ideas on how I will handle my finances and how I will plan my time upon visiting that specific destination. Amongst all of your blog that I have read each one of them is perfect! This inspires me to discover wonderful places in our country. Thank you!

Awwww, thank you for appreciating my work. Enjoy your travels!

Global Travel

Vigan Tourist Spot Guide – 18 Popular Places to Visit in Ilocos Sur

by Hungry Traveller
October 8, 2020 November 28, 2021

Listed below is a guide to the best Vigan tourist spot. Learn about the culture and rich history and try some of its outdoor fun activities.

Ilocos Sur is not your typical destination for suns and beaches. Visiting will take you back to its 18th-century vibe with its preserved Spanish architecture.

Its capital, Vigan City, holds a UNESCO heritage site recognition. Other than its historical traces, it is also a gastronomic destination thanks to its famous products like the empanada and Ilocos longganisa.

While it is generally hot throughout the year, the best time to travel is March to May. During those months, the temperature ranges from the highs of 33 degrees C to lows of 25 degrees C.

Book your tour in advance to avail of lower rates. April is the busiest month for tourism. However, avail of cheaper accommodations when you consider traveling to less crowded months of March and November.

Traveling from Manila to Vigan, Ilocos Sur

From 6-7 hours of land travel, you will arrive at Ilocos Sur. If you are traveling in your car or a rental one, you will likely come earlier than commuting through public buses.

The fastest way, however, is thru a flight from Manila to Laoag in Ilocos Norte. After that, you will ride a bus with routes going to Vigan City.

Here are the 18 Vigan tourist spot you can include in your itinerary

Table of Contents

1. Calle Crisologo

Travel back in time when you visit this Vigan tourist spot

The most famous Vigan tourist spot is the Calle Crisologo. This street sits in the heart of the Heritage Village recognized by UNESCO.

The grid street pattern of Calle Crisologo showcases century-old houses that line along the pavements made from cobblestones. Kalesa (horse-drawn carriage), however, is the only vehicle permitted to traverse the street.

Spend an early walk while the shops are starting to open so you can enjoy taking pictures without the crowd. The lower floor of these ancient houses is usually souvenir shops or restaurants.

Visiting in the afternoon, on the other hand, gives you an ambiance of the 18th-century vibe. Visitors dine at alfresco or enjoy some drinks to cap off the night.

Shopping for souvenirs and indulging in Ilocano foods are among the things to enjoy on your trip to Ilocos Sur. For extra fun, ride a kalesa while touring Calle Crisologo and other places within the Heritage Village.

2. Plaza Salcedo

The Plaza Salcedo on a bright, sunny day. One of the frequented Vigan tourist spot you shouldn't miss.

The Plaza Salcedo is a nearby Vigan tourist spot not to miss when touring the downtown area. The place is a spacious open park for picture taking during the day and enjoying a free dancing fountain at night.

Pass by here to relax after a long day of a stroll from Calle Crisologo or Vigan Cathedral.

Watch the waters coming from the nozzles come to life as it dances to the beat of the music. Likewise, various lights project upward as the music’s tempo shifts from slow to a fast-paced rhythm.

It would help if you were here early, though, so you could secure a limited seat and enjoy the free show.

3. Vigan Cathedral

Vigan Cathedral stands the test of time since the Spanish colonialism. Include this to your Vigan tourist spot itinerary

The Vigan Cathedral, also known as Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, sits in front of the Salcedo Plaza.

The thick walls you can see outside characterize a Baroque type of construction to resist earthquakes. While renovations improve its stability, notable features remain.

Spend a peaceful afternoon by visiting this Vigan tourist spot. The ornate silver panels of the main altar catch the attention of visitors. There are also 12 smaller altars and noticeable Chinese embellishments.

4. Bantay Church Bell Tower

Climb up a hill and visit a once dating place of the late Gabriella Silang and Diego Silang

The Bell Tower serves as a watchtower in the town of Bantay during the 15th century and World War II.

The belfry sits on top of a hill, and you need to climb the stairs before setting foot at it. Upon reaching the brick structure, an enormous bell hangs at the center. An overlooking view of the town of Bantay and Vigan rewards you after all.

Snap a photo with the belfry as a backdrop, or perform a jump shot for added fun. Ensure to register first at the Tourist Center and request a guide before proceeding to this nearby Vigan tourist spot.

Here’s a fun fact. According to recorded history, Heroes Diego and Gabriella Silang dated on this place during the 17th century.

5. Plaza Burgos

Plaza Burgos is another Vigan tourist spot to hang around when the sun sets

Together with the Plaza Salcedo, the Plaza Burgos are the two main parks in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. Fronting across Burgos Street is the Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral.

A late afternoon stroll is not complete without tasting their street foods. Here, you get to try their famous empanada, a fried roll filled with minced meat, egg, and vegetables.

The statue is a reminder of Father Jose P. Burgos’ martyrdom during the Spanish colonial.

6. Padre Burgos House

Locally known as Bahay Na Bato (stone house), this museum extends the National Museum in Ilocos Sur. This place is where the late Father Burgos grew up.

Learn from the displays and writings of how Father Burgos fought for the equality of Filipino priests. Some of the priest’s belongings, including his old writing tools, photographs, and family antiques, are among the things you can appreciate on your visit.

Aside from Father Burgos’ memorabilia, the museum also holds a series of paintings by Don Esteban Villanueva. The canvas shows an overview of the Basi Revolt against the Spanish rulers and their drastic move to quell the uprising.

7. Crisologo Museum

Learn history when you visit this Ilocos Sur tourist spot called Crisologo Museum

Another museum you should add to your Vigan tourist spot itinerary is the Crisologo Museum. A small vintage house turned into a museum in memory of the late politician Floro S. Crisologo.

An unidentified gunman has assassinated the statesman during his Sunday visit with his wife at Saint Paul Cathedral.

Have a glimpse of the past for free, and learn about the trivial political clan from Vigan. Here, you can learn about the prominent family’s contribution and influence to the province through memorabilia, scriptures, and displays.

The stained dress of the late politician is also among the displays in this museum.

8. Syquia Mansion

Witness the preserved formal living room when you visit this Vigan tourist spot at Sequia Mansion

The Syquia Mansion is an ancestral property where the late President Elpidio Quirino lived with his family.

His wife’s family owns the house and transformed it into a museum that showcases the former president’s memorabilia.

Appreciate the classic interior elements of what was once a presidential villa. It features a high ceiling, hardwood flooring, antique wood furniture, porcelain jars.

You even get to check the secret hallways for servants back then, so guests cannot see them.

Visiting this Vigan tourist spot, along with the other museums, is both fun and informative.

9. Chapel By The Ruins

When you visit the Saint Augustine Church, don’t forget to pass by a small chapel within its compound.

This place is the remnant of the old church from the destruction during World War II. The walled vicinity and open space make it a spot for a silent moment and reflection.

Say a little prayer on the bench, and appreciate the greens around the walls. The antique displays add a vintage vibe, though.

Visiting with your family or significant other makes this visit a memorable one.

10. Pagburnayan Jar Factory

Appreciate cultural arts by trying making your own pots

Visiting Ilocos Sur tourist spots lets you learn about the rich culture and history of the region.

One way to have an in-depth appreciation of its tradition is by visiting this local jar factory.

Witness how pots mold into a beautiful one from raw earthen material. You can also get to try yourself after some instructions from your local guide.

The jar-making industry took inspiration from Chinese immigrants who then settled in the province.

Pottery making is indeed a fun activity for kids and adults as well

11. Baluarte Zoo

Kids will love visiting this Ilocos Sur tourist spot. Some animals are openly roaming around, though.

Just a few minutes from the city center is the Baluarte Zoo.

Kids will enjoy seeing wild animals up close and when you visit this Ilocos Sur tourist spot. The zoo houses big cats like leopards and Bengal tigers. Similarly, they also have other domesticated animals like monkeys and parrots.

For your mandatory selfies, some life-size dinosaur displays make an excellent backdrop as well.

While admission is free, an exclusive tour for a minimal fee is also available upon request.

The complex also houses souvenir shops and stores, so you can grab some bites while having fun.

12. Hidden Garden

Experience dining on a refreshing ambiance at Hidden Garden, just a few minutes ride away from Vigan City.

Trees and flowering plants give the place a relaxing view. Plant lovers can buy some as well.

Hidden Garden serves authentic Ilocano dishes, perfect to start the day when you tour the city.

13. Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone

The Adventure Zone is for outdoor fun-seekers during the day and dines at restaurants in Calle Crisologo at night.

More than visiting the museums, tourist has a chance to spend a different day filled with adrenaline-rocking activities.

The main attraction is its 400-meter long zipline, which requires you to first climb a 5 level platform. You will then traverse the Abra River, which is usually calm and clear during the summer.

Parallel to the zipline is the postcard-like Quirino Bridge that connects the towns of Bantay and Santa.

This Ilocos Sur tourist spot also offers other activities worth trying like rock climbing and rappelling, kayaking, and giant swing.

14. Twin Bridge

The Quirino Bridge and Banaoang Bridge both span across the Abra River.

The Banaoang bridge replaced the Quirino Bridge. Years after its impairment from a typhoon, the local government has initiated refurbishment to restore its beauty.

The old bridge makes a scenic spot for photographers, thanks to its metal framing construction. Likewise, the mountains on both sides add a dramatic effect as a backdrop.

15. Narvacan Outdoor Adventure Hub (NOAH)

Showcase your adventure spirit when you try the thrilling activities at Narvacan Outdoor Adventure Hub. Find out why you need to include this in your list of the following Ilocos Sur tourist spot itinerary.

The outdoor complex sits perfectly between a mountain and the sea. They offer activities like paragliding, mountain climbing, off-road driving, and kitesurfing.

The highlight of its offerings is the tandem paragliding. Here, you’ll be riding with a pilot, so your role is to relax and enjoy the panoramic view.

For the brave heart, you get to try their Via Perrata , a.k.a Iron Path. When gears are all set, you will start climbing to its fixed iron rungs. The steel cable securely guides with the harness and the connected hook. After reaching the peak, you will be descending thru a Tyrolean traverse.

NOAH offers food and accommodation packages as well. End your day with delicious food from their restaurant ARKO. Note that they serve both local and foreign dishes.

If you want to extend your stay, you can camp by bringing with you your tent. Just pay a small fee, though, for the use of utilities. Airconditioned rooms are available for booking as well.

16. Mindoro Beach

While it is not advisable for any swimming activities, visiting Mindoro Beach is still an excellent addition to your itinerary.

The beach features jet black sand that is rich in iron ore and magnetite. It has strong currents year-round, but walking along its shoreline still calls for a charming activity.

Visiting in the afternoon is ideal for a sunset view, as it lies on the west coast.

17. Santiago Cove

If you are coming from Metro Manila, you will be passing by the town of Santiago. Frequently missed by tourists, a small paradise lies on its cove.

The Sabangan Cove, or commonly referred to as Santiago Cove, has fine white sands. Unlike the Mindoro beach, the water here is calm and is perfect for a quick swim.

The road along the coast is a great spot to jog early in the morning or at dawn.

If you plan to spend a lunch picnic on the beach, there are cottages you can rent.

18. Munch to their Ilocano Dishes

The famous Ilocos empanada in Vigan Ilcocos Sur

Aside from the many Vigan tourist spots, Ilocos Sur is also known for its empanada. It is a fried stuffing rolled in a flour dough with vibrant, orange color.

The filling combines a mixture of shredded green papaya, minced pork sausage (longganisa), and a raw egg, rolled together and deep-fried.

Try tasting their Sinanglaw as well. It is a soup-based dish made from beef meat, and its innards are savored with garlic, ginger, onion, and kamias . It pairs well with a local beer when you’re spending late-night drinks.

🔗 Nearby Island Tourist Destinations | La Union | Ilocos Norte |

Turn back in time when visiting vigan tourist spots.

Visiting Ilocos Sur will amaze you with its preserved architecture and its rich cultural heritage. Whether spending a quick weekend getaway or a family vacation, you won’t run out of fun things to do in the province.

Plan your next tour now and while drafting your Vigan tourist spot itinerary. While it is always hot in the region, sunblocks and umbrellas help maximize outdoor activities.

Foods and accommodations around the city are relatively cheaper, so you won’t worry about spending more.

Buy local crafts and souvenirs, as this helps small businesses in the region.

Comment down below if you know some of the newest attractions in the province of Ilocos Sur.

Did you find this helpful?

Please share it with your friends now.

Remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic. For your guidance about the changes in health protocols and travel requirements, you may visit their Facebook page or the official page of the Department of Tourism . Stay safe.

Must-see Vigan tourist spots, Ilocos Sur

by Noel | | Travel Photography , Historic sites , Museums and art venues , Philippines , Unesco World Heritage sites | 28 comments

13 Must-See Vigan Tourist Spots in Ilocos Sur: Unveiling the Charms of the Past (updated 2023)

Experience the allure of Vigan, an extraordinary city nestled in the Philippines renowned for its profound heritage and cultural significance. As you set foot in this historic destination, prepare to be transported through time, immersing yourself in the mesmerizing ambiance of colonial-era architecture and charming cobblestone streets. Vigan has been bestowed with the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its impeccably preserved Spanish colonial buildings that offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s illustrious past. Whether you’re exploring ancient structures, indulging in mouthwatering local cuisine, discovering traditional crafts, or immersing yourself in vibrant festivals, Vigan guarantees an immersive experience that will leave you spellbound and filled with inspiration.

Vigan city in Ilocos Sur is located in the northwest region of Luzon in the Philippines is a beautiful Spanish colonial city. The city takes pride in its colonial past while mixing in some quirky, new and fascinating places to visit in the city and region. If you are looking for something with more history and culture in your visit to the Philippines, check out these must see tourist spots in Vigan city, Ilocos Sur.

While visiting Vigan City, we have some fantastic food recommendations for you to also check out below on your visit, so keep reading.

Must-see Vigan tourist spots, Ilocos Sur

Must-See: Vigan City’s Enchanting Heritage and Culture in Illocos Sur – Vigan Cathedral

Why visit Vigan city, Ilocos Sur?

One of the few remaining historic colonial capitals of the Philippines that is authentic to its Spanish Colonial days, Vigan city is a wonderful historic and Unesco World Heritage site that is worthy of a visit especially if you stay in any of the beautiful hotels that have been remodeled from an old historic home. Walking around the entire city to visit living museums, specialty shops and markets, cobblestone streets and eating the delicious local foods, snacks and comfort foods of the area is really special and unique for the Philippines which does not retain enough of it’s own historic past and references.

With so much beautiful and historic present and well preserved architecture in the historic district, it is worthwhile to visit Vigan in Illocos Sud area.

Vigan City, FAQ

Should you visit vigan.

Visitors that love Unesco cities and historic Spanish Colonial cities will love Vigan. A rare Colonial Spanish city in the Philippines that is well intact and easy to explore, Vigan has retained many beautiful, old buildings, streets and large squares to explore in Ilocos Sud in Luzon island.

Where is Vigan city, Illocos sur located?

Unlike the ugly urban sprawl and development of Manila and Cebu City, Vigan city maintains its unique character as a authentic Spanish colonial city, in a very compact space. Designated as a Unesco World Heritage site, the entire city has many traditional homes, converted mansions and beautiful architectural zones that make this a unique travel destination in the Philippines. For those interested in Philippine culture and history from the Spanish colonial times, this city encapsulates the look and vibe of those early days but with modern conveniences to make it a pleasant visit.

The easiest way to get to vigan city is to fly to Laoag and take a short bus ride back down to Vigan. You can also catch a bus from Manila and that will be about a nine and 1/2 hour to the city.

Best time to visit Vigan City, Illocos Sur?

The best time to visit this Spanish Colonial city is during the dry season and cooler months of December to March when the weather is pleasant with less rain and humidity in the area. During the winter time you can also experience the holidays and festivities in the city to include Holy Week and Viva Vigan, New Year’s celebrations and the Vigan City Festival. A perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, festivals and activities and also touring around the city and the historic attractions around the region.

What makes Vigan city famous?

Vigan City is famous for its intact Spanish Colonial city, architecture, squares and historic sites that you can visit. This Unesco World Heritage site has retained many of its Spanish roots with a fantastic look at a historic colonial city that is well preserved and worth visiting.

13 Top attractions and places to see and do around Vigan City, Illocos Sur

Top attractions to visit in Vigan city and surrounding area

1. Calle Crisologo

Running over five blocks in the historic center of Vigan City, Calle Crisologo is the popular tourist destination with many of the Spanish colonial homes in the street converted into shops, restaurants, inns and other tourist attractions that give you a taste of what this colonial city looks like with cobble stone streets and kalesa horse buggies ply through the main thoroughfare.

Here’s a fun night time visit and tour of this historic street to visit in Vigan

Calesa rides Calle Crisologo in Vigan City

2. Kalesa ride through the historic districts of Vigan City

One of the best ways to slow down to the colonial lifestyle and pace of Vigan is to travel by kalesa or a horse drawn carriage with a driver. Kalesa drivers ply the main tourist areas of the city to show you the best parts of the colonial capital depending on how far you want to go and see around the city. Most drivers will offer you a highlight tour of the important sections and attractions around the city

Tip – Make sure you negotiate a good price up front before you step into the kalesa and what places you want to explore from the drivers highlights of places to see.

Here’s a fun Calesa tour highlight in visiting Vigan city below

3. St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

The main church of St. Pauls sits directly in front of Plaza Salcedo – the main square of the city with the dancing fountains. St. Paul’s Cathedral is part of the Unesco Heritage sites of the city and has been rebuilt many times from earthquakes, fires and other damages. The Spanish colonial style church is Neo-Gothic and Romanesque in style with the archbishop’s palace located next to the cathedral.

4. Plaza Salcedo

The large plaza fronting St. Paul Cathedral is known as Plaza Salcedo which is named after Spanish conqueror Juan de Salcedo who founded the city and region. The plaza is a very popular spot to hang out and relax in the main square of Vigan City with large monuments to check out around the square include the bronze statue of Jose Rizal (Philippine national hero), the water dancing fountains with the obelisk in the center (to honor Salcedo) and the city hall fronting the fountains. Night time is a popular time to visit with the colorful water dancing show which happens daily.

5. Father Burgos Museum and Home

The city has so many heritage homes and sites and this includes the Father Burgos Museum which used to be his home. Now managed by the Philippine National museum, rotating exhibits, art collections and a visit to the home and personal collection of Father Burgos gives you an insight to the daily life, memorabilia and Spanish colonial lifestyle to living in Vigan city.

6. Syquia Mansion of President Elpidio Quirino

Home to the Philippine’s sixth president, Syquia mansion is the birthplace of Elpidio Quirino who brought back the Philippines economic growth after World War II. You can take a self tour of the mansion with signage describing the elaborate rooms that are all open to visit in this colonial home. The ancestral home has many of the personal effects, fine furnishings, antiques and memorabilia of this affluent family that made their fortune building trade in the Vigan area. The exquisite home, furnishings and beautiful details are perfectly preserved for you to see how the wealthy entertained and lived during this time frame.

7. Baluarte Zoo

Part zoo and then a strange collection of the owners hunting prowess with a museum on the top of the hill with his trophy wildlife collection. This private collection gifted to the city, Baluarte is a fun distraction to visit outside of the city with a beautiful view from the top hill to the ocean with some free range animals roaming around and some other caged or fenced animals that you can view from a distance. This free zoo is open to the public, but there is a charge for the tram and visit to the wildlife museum if you’re in the mood to see his trophy collection of prized heads and taxidermy.

Bizarre museum of taxidermy and prized hunts at Baluarte

Baluarte museum collection in Vigan city

8. Explore Vigan City Public Market

The expansive Vigan public market is a fun place to explore to see where the locals shop for their perishables, meats, seafood and other take away foods. Housed in two large indoor buildings the top floors are the actual markets for fruits and vegetables on one side and meat, poultry and seafood with a large section of cafes, bakeries and other take away foods. The downstairs have crafts and souvenir shops, clothing and other daily sundry items worth walking around and finding some real cheap deals or gifts to take home. This is also a great market to photograph with not so shy locals also posing and hamming it up with you when you walk around the aisles.

Poultry section at the Vigan public market

Here’s a tour of the huge public market area of Vigan

9. Explore the traditional craft of Abel Iloco in Vigan City

Traditional woven craft products are still hand-made in Vigan city and Ilocos Sur. There are traditional craft centers or coops that you can visit personally and pic up some wonderful and inexpensive hand-made woven crafts. Also, if you visit the Vigan public market, there is a large souvenir area that you can find many of the local fabrics turned into linens, clothing and other souvenirs at cheap prices.

Here’s a video showing the craft of Abel Iloco below

10. Bantay Belfry

The Bantay Belfry is in another section far from the historic district – you can catch a tricycle to get to this destination. The entrance to the tower requires you to sign in and give an optional donation to visit the tower. Once you enter, you climb up a nicely landscaped area and then enter the door where you climb two sets of stairs to two observation areas, but the top deck has great views and a nice cool breeze flowing through which made me want to stay longer to enjoy the great views from the top. The name Bantay means to watch and was used as a lookout for raiders coming close to the town.

I head back down the tower and enjoy a nice last view and spot the wedding couple again taking pictures in the garden. Just outside the gate are a few more vendors selling crafts and snacks and I stop again to try another savory empanadas and fried shrimp okoy with a spicy vinegar sauce. When the temperatures are hot I usually just stick to small snack foods to keep me going instead of the typical heavy meals served in the restaurants. There are also a few cafes and small eateries just outside of the church if you are looking for a bigger meal.

11. Bantay Church

The church is quite elaborate with a beautiful exterior and interior – a wedding photo shoot was in progress which made it fun to also take photos with a wedding couple. I checked out the lovely outside garden and chapel before heading out to climb the massive bell tower.

Interior details of Bantay Church in Vigan City

Bantay church gardens and outdoor chapel

outdoor gardens of Bantay Church in Vigan City

Here’s a view of Bantay Church and the belfry from a drone view above

12. Plaza Burgos in Vigan City

Located in the historic district, Plaza Burgos is the starting point of the cobbled streets of Calle Crisologo along with a variety of fast food, take out eateries and the popular empanada shacks that Vigan city is known for its famous snack – the empanada. Old colonial structures line the square along with very well established restaurants serving a variety of Ilocano specialties from the region. If you’re looking for food venues, take a walk around the square and then to Calle Crisologo and check out the menus and daily specials to the various places you pass through.

Old colonial buildings around Plaza Burgos

What to eat in Vigan city and where

There are many must eat types of specialty foods to try here in Vigan that are local, authentic and delicious to try. Here’s what we recommend

Vigan empanadas

By far the most popular snack food or side dish in Vigan is empanadas. You will find empanada stands almost anywhere within the crowded plazas of Vigan, Empanada is something Vigan takes pride in.

Made with a combination of ingredients including Longganisang Iloko, beans, shredded cabbages, grated unripe papayas, onion, garlic and egg makes up the core of orange-colored Empanada.

It’s good to visit the many stands where sellers make it right before your very eyes which is also another interesting sight.

Pinakbet or Pakbet called locally is a delicious vegetable dish made with eggplants, okra, string beans, chili peppers, and bitter gourd. If you’re feeling a bit conscious about your health, this is the perfect meal to try out in Vigan and a very popular local favorite dish to enjoy.

This popular Vigan style sausage is all the rage around the Philippines with the popular pork belly styled meat dish. Made traditionally and dried under the sun, marinated then deep-fried to make it super crispy with tender meat on the inside. Bagnet is recognized as the region’s delicacy symbol and is delicious and crunchy on the outside in fried perfection and so cholesterol-rich but oh so good to eat as a local delicacy.

Longganisang Iloko

A favorite local sausage, the Longganisang Iloko is known as Vigan Longganisa and a must try local sausage made and sold in the various markets around town. Very aromatic, plump, full of garlic, tatty and seen as a bit yellowish compared to usual sausages but one will convince you of the amazing flavors and aromas that is so well loved for this iconic sausage.

Filipinos cook them in a pan with a bit of water. After the water evaporates, the longganisa is fried using its own fat and is further fried until it turns slightly brown. It brings out its best flavor when dipped in vinegar and eaten with a plate of rice and eggs.

Royal Bibingka

For any sweet tooth, this is a must-try local dessert. The royal bibingka one of Vigan’s specialties of a spongy rice cake dessert. The crusty top and the sticky but soft cupcaked-sized body makes up the crowd favorite bibingka. Topped with cheese and butter, you can never go wrong with a Royal Bibingka.

Empanada food stalls

Located on the far end of Plaza Burgos, you’ll find the empanada food stalls where all the fried specialties including empanadas, okoy, grilled barbeques and soups are made fast and are an inexpensive snack or quick meal. Around the square are a variety of shops and small malls selling a variety of souvenirs, t-shirts and clothing and other local made crafts and food items.

Here’s a video of the famous Vigan Empanadas

eating out vigan city at Sitio food park

13. Sitio Food Park

Just outside of Vigan city is the cool new venue called Sitio Food Park which are old containers refashioned into a hip new dining, bar and hangout space with live music. Popular all day, the scene is really active at night time with live bands, neon and spotlights to create a fun vibe with many food choices to choose from snacks, desserts to local traditional food or even fusion food. Come to Sitio if you’re looking for something different and lively at night time in Vigan City.

Traditional to fusion at Sitio Food Park

Where to eat around Vigan city

With fantastic food from the Illocano region, you’ll love eating out and trying out all the delicious local food and specialties from the area.

Here are some popular places where you can indulge in the city’s mouthwatering food offerings:

Calle Crisologo: This iconic street not only offers a glimpse into Vigan City’s Spanish colonial past with its well-preserved ancestral houses but also serves as a culinary haven. Numerous cafes and restaurants line the street, offering traditional dishes such as Vigan longganisa (local sausage), bagnet (crispy fried pork), and empanada (a savory pastry filled with ground meat, vegetables, and egg). You can savor these delectable treats while immersing yourself in the charming ambiance of the historic surroundings.

Plaza Burgos: Located near the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza Burgos is a bustling area filled with food stalls and eateries. Here, you can sample Vigan’s famous street food, including the iconic Vigan empanada, which is a must-try. The empanada features a crispy orange crust filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, vegetables, and egg. You can also find other local delights like okoy (deep-fried shrimp patties), sinanglaw (beef innards stew), and various grilled skewers.

Hidden Garden: Tucked away from the busy streets, Hidden Garden is a tranquil oasis that not only boasts beautiful gardens but also houses a restaurant serving authentic Vigan dishes. You can savor traditional favorites like poqui-poqui (grilled eggplant with tomatoes and onions), pinakbet (mixed vegetables sautéed in shrimp paste), and igado (pork and liver stew). The serene ambiance and lush surroundings add to the dining experience.

Bantay Abot Cave and Sitio Food Park: Located near Vigan City, Bantay Abot Cave offers a unique dining experience at Sitio Food Park. Set amidst the stunning landscape, the food park features various food stalls serving a range of local specialties. From traditional Ilocano dishes to grilled seafood and refreshing drinks, you can enjoy a scrumptious meal while taking in the breathtaking views of the cave and the coastline.

Check out this video of places to eat around the city now and the best street food venues in town.

Here’s another Vigan inspired food visit below

Where to stay in Vigan City

There are plenty of fantastic accommodations, but the best stays are in some of the beautiful homes repurposed into inns or hotels. Here are some of the wonderful choices for inns to add to your stay and visit to Vigan City below.

Hotel Luna – nicely restored with a swimming pool, the comfortable rooms and modern amenities make this stay and close proximity to Calle Crisologo ideal in the historic district.

Hotel Salcedo de Vigan – Beautifully restored colonial home in the heart of the historic district with spacious rooms, fantastic buffet breakfast and friendly front desk service.

Vigan Plaza Hotel – A grand colonial home restored with beautiful antiques, large rooms with historic details and features in the rooms and main room. In the historic district with comfortable sized rooms.

Check out these other listing reviews with Trip Advisor here for current prices and availability.

Weather and best time to visit Vigan City

Planning a trip to Vigan City? Here’s your guide to the weather and the best time to visit this historic gem:

Weather Overview: Vigan City experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Dry Season (November – April):

Best Time to Visit: The dry season, particularly from December to February, is considered the best time to visit. Expect sunny days and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city’s heritage sites, such as Calle Crisologo and the Vigan Cathedral.

Wet Season (May – October):

Rainy Months: June to September see the most rainfall.
Considerations: While the wet season can bring lush greenery to the surroundings, heavy rains may hinder outdoor activities. Flooding is also a possibility during this time.
Viva Vigan Festival (First Week of May): If you’re interested in cultural celebrations, consider visiting during the Viva Vigan Festival, which showcases street dancing, parades, and various cultural events.

Weather Tips:

Light Clothing: Regardless of the season, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended due to the city’s warm and humid climate.
Umbrella/Rain Gear: If visiting during the wet season, carry an umbrella and rain gear to stay dry during sudden showers.

Conclusion: The best time to visit Vigan City for ideal weather conditions is during the dry season, from November to April. However, if you don’t mind occasional rain and want to experience the city’s cultural festivities, consider the Viva Vigan Festival in May. Whatever time you choose to visit, Vigan City’s rich heritage and captivating history await your exploration.

More details about visiting Vigan City, Illocos Sur

It’s relatively easy to get around the city by taxi or tricycle, you can also hire a Kalesa ride to take you to any of the historic places around the city.

Try some of the local Ilocano specialty dishes like empanadas or okoy, loggonnisa (local sausages), and popular main dishes like pinakbet, bagnet (fried pork belly)

There are quite a few spas around Vigan City which are a fantastic and inexpensive way to wind down after touring around the city. You can check out the various spas here for more details

Stay in the historic district so it is easier to just walk around and see some of the main attractions and take taxis to the outlying areas..

How to get to Vigan city in Ilolos Sud

Located in the Northwest sector of the Philippines on Luzon Island, the city is very far to get to in the Ilocos Sud Region. The main way to get there is by plane, bus or private transportation. The distance from Manila to Vigan is about 264 miles and average time to get there is from 5.5 to 6 hours or quicker by plane.

Getting there by plane

The easiest way to get to Vigan City is by flying from Manila to the closest airport at Laoag and taking a bus or hired car to Vigan City. There are about 4 main bus lines from Laoag to Vigan City and the best schedule is with Partas Bus lines and you can check out their availability here .

Getting to Vigan by Bus

Getting to Vigan from Manila by bus takes about 9 hours but is the cheapest option to getting to Vigan City. If you are ready for the long ride from Manila to Vigan city there are many bus lines from Manila that cover this route. You can check out the many bus routes here for more information and current prices.

Getting to Vigan by taxi or private car

You can go by private car or taxi to Vigan for more privacy and even stop at various places of interest along the way. Or you can easily rent a car and do the trip yourself, if you want to explore many attractions and other historic sites to visit along the way.

Getting around Vigan City

Once you arrive in Vigan, you can easily explore the city on foot or hire a tricycle, a common mode of transportation in the area. Enjoy your journey to Vigan City, filled with historical charm and cultural wonders.

More inside tips to visiting and enjoying Vigan City

Here are some insider tips to enhance your visit to Vigan City:

Early Morning Walk: Start your day early and take a leisurely stroll along Calle Crisologo, the city’s iconic cobblestone street. The early morning hours offer a quieter and less crowded experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the preserved heritage buildings and capture stunning photos.

Kalesa Ride: Explore the city in a traditional horse-drawn carriage called a kalesa. It’s a unique way to tour Vigan’s narrow streets and enjoy the charming ambiance. Negotiate the price beforehand and agree on the duration of the ride to avoid any misunderstandings.

Try Local Delicacies: Don’t miss the chance to savor Vigan’s famous delicacies. Indulge in authentic Vigan longganisa (sausages), empanada (savory pastry), and sinanglao (beef soup). Visit the local market or try renowned eateries like Café Leona or Hidden Garden’s Café to sample these delectable treats.

Visit Baluarte: Take a trip to Baluarte, a wildlife sanctuary and mini zoo owned by former Governor Chavit Singson. Explore the vast grounds and get up close with animals like tigers, ostriches, and reptiles. The entrance is free, making it a great place for families and animal enthusiasts.

Attend the Vigan Heritage Festival: If your visit coincides with the Vigan Heritage Festival, make sure to participate in the festivities. This annual event celebrates the city’s cultural heritage with parades, street performances, and various traditional activities. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.

Visit Hidden Gardens: Escape the bustling city center and unwind at Hidden Gardens. This picturesque garden showcases beautiful landscapes, native plants, and antique collections. You can also enjoy a relaxing meal at their restaurant, which offers a serene ambiance.

Take a Pottery Workshop: Engage in a hands-on experience by joining a pottery workshop at RG Jar Factory. Learn the art of pottery-making from skilled craftsmen and create your unique souvenir to take home.

Remember to stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and respect the city’s cultural heritage by following local customs and regulations. Enjoy your time exploring the captivating city of Vigan!

Check out these other posts to visiting the area

Public market at Ilocos Norte

3 days visiting Ilocos Norte

Inspired – Please pin this post!

Have you been to Vigan City in the Philippines?

We have covered a lot of fun things to do around Vigan City, but if we missed anything, please do share your experiences in the comments section below.

You’ll enjoy your visit and stay around Vigan to explore this wonderful Unesco site and walk around this city of restored homes, public buildings and shopping venues around the regional capital city of Ilocos Sud.

Conclusion on visiting Vigan City, Ilocos Sur region

Discover the enchantment of Vigan City, where history comes alive amidst preserved colonial architecture. From strolling Calle Crisologo to savoring local delicacies, each moment is an immersion into a bygone era. Experience vibrant festivals, pottery workshops, and the tranquility of Hidden Gardens. Vigan’s warm hospitality and authentic charm invite you to embrace its rich cultural heritage. Let this captivating city leave an indelible mark on your heart as you explore the timeless allure of Vigan—an unforgettable destination that exceeds expectations and creates cherished memories.

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28 Comments

Planning to do a backpacking in Ilocos Norte and Sur to discover the new destinations. Crossing my fingers to visit all within 24-48 hours.

Enjoy,hope you get to these must see Vigan tourist spots in Ilocos Sur

I never knew this place existed! I would love to take a visit to the watchtower and the markets. It sounds like there is lots of great stuff to do in Vigan!

Vigan City is one of those rare colonial cities in the Philippines that remained relatively intact and is definitely worth a visit

Whenever I think of Philippines, I think about beaches and never the colonial city. But the Vigan city in Ilcos Sur looks quite impressive and interesting. Riding by Kalesa horse buggies to experience the colonial lifestyle will be on top of my list. Plaza Salcedo and Abel illoco is another attraction I would love to hang and shop around. Great pictures and thanks for sharing.

Most people think of the Philippines as beaches and islands, but there are some cultural gems worth visiting like Vigan city in Ilocos Sud

I was born and bred here, its so nice reading articles about my home town Vigan City…. you missed going to PAGBURNAYAN a local pottery neighbourhood. Did you try to visit places making the VIGAN longanisa (local sausage)

Oh yes I visiting some of those places that do make and sell Longonissa, the Vigan Sausage specialty. Thanks for suggesting this.

I am nostalgic abut our tour of Ilocos. I can never forget how we were overtaken by the cyclone and reached Manila after a delay of many hours. Your photos are just too good Nathan. Especially the street photos :).

It looks like its back to normal and Vigan city is shining with beautiful architecture, food and places to explore

I had never heard of Vigan city. A little bit of Spain in Philippines! 🙂 Loved the quirky, rustic charm on the streets with colonial architecture and an authentic character of it’s own! Calle Crisologo looks like a superb place for street shots and people watching. Loved the architecture of St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral and the vintage charm of Father Burgos Museum and Home! I’d love to visit the traditional raft centres of Abel Iloco! Thanks for such an insightful post!

It’s well preserved and well worth the Unesco designation, a must visit to Vigan City

Vigan City looks like a great place to explore. I still haven’t made it to the Philippines, but I hope to fix that next year. I would certainly head for that food market, and climb up Bantay Belfry to get a view of the town. I had no idea this would be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I do try to get to as many of those as I can.

Vigan city is very compact and easy to explore with all the interesting monuments, public squares and architecture – very unique for the Philippines

I still need to see more of the Philippines and Vigan will definitely make it to my itinerary next year.

It is beautiful in Ilocos Sud and Vigan City

Yet another place in the Philippines we need to visit. We spent in the Philippines back in 2014 but I think you could spend YEARS there exploring. So many amazing places.

If you like Unesco sites then you would definitely enjoy exploring Vigan City Hannah

Vigan City looks so different to my perception of The Philippines. I guess I just imagined great beaches and didn’t realise there were such fabulous historic districts. Really eye opening.

This is unique for the Philippines, it really is a special city.

I want to see the Philippines so badly and I think this place looks much more attractive than Manila (although I am not very aware of things to do in Manila). I loved to read you enjoyed the empanadas and now I am hungry 🙂 Bantay Belfry looks really cool. I think I wouldn’t enjoy the market with all the dead animals and I am a bit worried that the horses have to work a lot with carrying people around. The place looks really cool and I hope I can visit one day.

Vigan city is very unique to the Philippines and not like the busy metropolis of Manila

What a beautiful Unesco site. I spend many years in and out of Manila in the 80’s, but never had the opportunity to visit other pieces of the country. clearly I missed a lot. Vigan City reminds me a bit of Cuba with all the colonial influences. Thanks for the visit, your photos really tell a story.

Vigan city is very different than the rest of the country and really maintains its heritage, hence the Unesco status, thanks for visiting.

This is quite a comprehensive look at Vigan and Ilocos Sur. Those food stalls are calling my name. Mmmmmmm, empanadas.

Vigan City is very historic, cool and fun at the same time.

I love the architecture and style of this city. While I enjoy seeing all the church interiors, there is so much more to this city. I would definitely visit the Sitio food park.

Vigan City is definitely a beautiful Unesco city in Ilocos Sur, I think you would definitely enjoy touring the entire region Rhonda

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Province of Ilocos Sur - Our Local Guide PH - […] Citations: [1] https://businessmirror.com.ph/2022/05/05/ilocos-sur-food-and-delicacies/ [2] https://travelphotodiscovery.com/must-see-vigan-tourist-spots-ilocos-sur/ [3] https://www.escapemanila.com/2019/05/8-must-try-food-in-ilocos.html [4] https://islandsphilippines.com/ilocos/ilocossur/festivals_ilocossur.php [5] https://www.klook.com/en-PH/blog/what-to-eat-ilocos/ [6] http://www.traveltothephilippines.info/2015/02/03/colorful-festivals-in-ilocos-sur/ […]
50+ Must Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia | The Winged Fork - […] baked goods, fresh tropical fruits and even buy some inexpensive local souvenirs. Check out my visit to Vigan City…
Wonderful Place In The Philippines – www.feelthenature.com - […] historic and different from the typical Philipino tourist experience, then check out all the amazing things to do in…
16 of the Most Beautiful Places in the Philippines – courting - […] Historic homes have been converted to living museums, small inns, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses that draw visitors mostly…
16 of the Most Beautiful Places in the Philippines – Holiday Planr - […] Historic homes have been converted to living museums, small inns, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses that draw visitors mostly…
16 of the Most Beautiful Places in the Philippines - Migrating Miss - […] Historic homes have been converted to living museums, small inns, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses that draw visitors mostly…

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Hi, I'm Noel, a writer and photographer based in San Francisco and Hawaii. I write about delicious food and wine indulgences, thoughtful luxury, and adventure travel. I share camera tips and techniques while exploring new and unusual places around the world. My site explores culture and history, art and architecture, world heritage sites, exotic locals, along with nature tours and natural landscapes worldwide. Quite a mixed bag of curiosities and quirky interests, just like myself.

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Top Things to Do in Vigan

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Calle Crisologo
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St Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

15 Best ILOCOS SUR Tourist Spots (Heritage & Nature)

Hey there! Are you ready for another exciting adventure? Well, I’m sure that you’ll love our next destination which is famous for its “Old-World” architecture and stunning cultural wonders that will let you appreciate the rich history of our country. That’s right, we’re going to Ilocos Sur! This cultural and historical province has been the go-to destination for curious travelers and history buffs out there. When we talk about Ilocos Sur, the very first thing that comes to mind is the city of Vigan, a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site in the country, which is also the capital of the province and where the classic “Bahay na Bato” houses can be found. Oh, and it’s also obviously the origin place of the delicious Vigan Longganisa !

But aside from Vigan City, there are still a lot of breathtaking hidden gems yet to be uncovered in the whole province. From different religious landmarks, cultural buildings, and close encounters with nature, our adventure in Ilocos Sur will absolutely be one of the most memorable experiences of your whole life!

So, are you ready? I hope you’ve cleared enough memory space on your cameras because we’re definitely going to fill those up with fantastic pictures. Come and join me because here are the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Ilocos Sur!

1. Calle Crisologo

One of the most iconic tourist destinations not only in Ilocos Sur but in the entire Philippines is the nostalgic old-world street of Calle Crisologo. Visiting this breathtaking street will make you feel like you’re traveling back in time as you encounter century-old buildings, houses, tungsten lamps, and cobblestone walkways. The street spans for a length of 500 meters where only pedestrians and calesas or horse-drawn carriages are allowed. This gives tourists a chance to admire and enjoy what it was like to live 200 years ago. What an unforgettable experience indeed!

Calle Crisologo is also the perfect place to immerse yourselves in the rich culture of Ilocos Sur because some of the ancestral houses were turned into souvenir shops and fantastic restaurants serving irresistible Ilocano delights like bagnet, Ilocos empanada , and many more! Calle Crisologo is undoubtedly the face of Ilocos Sur’s culture and tourism. This is why you shouldn’t miss the chance of exploring it during your visit! CHECK HOTELS IN VIGAN HERE

2. Bantay Church Bell Tower

Another iconic symbol that played a huge role in Vigan City’s rich culture and history is the Bantay Church Bell Tower. This bell tower served as the city’s watchtower when it was built in 1591 to alert against possible enemies and invasions.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Located in Bantay , Ilocos Sur, this popular landmark is only about 10 minutes away from the city of Vigan so it’s relatively easy to reach it. A lot of people visit the Bantay Church Bell Tower because of the undeniable beauty and nostalgic feeling it gives to the place.

It is a significant piece of the country’s history that unbelievably stood the test of time, war, and natural disasters. Be sure to take some nice pictures!

3. Vigan Cathedral

Visiting Vigan Cathedral will be absolutely one of the highlights of your adventure in Vigan City because this cathedral serves as a huge reason why the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, the church plays a huge role in the religious culture of Ilocanos because it serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia. The cathedral in itself is already a tourist destination because of the stunning design of the facade and the interior.

The church was built way back in 1574 and has been through a lot of renovation and reconstruction over the years. At night, the cathedral lights up beautifully which attracts hundreds of tourists and locals to take pictures after the mass.

READ THE BLOG POST: Vigan Blog Post

4. Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo

Well, yes! Ilocos Sur isn’t only about century-old buildings and churches, you also have the chance to get closer to nature and meet lovely animals during your visit. The Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo are owned by the famous Ilocano politician Chavit Singson. This park covers a huge area of 100 hectares and features several exciting attractions and activities that people of all ages will surely love! It’s your chance to meet rare animals up close such as Bengal tigers, lions, peacocks, and many more. There are also several animal statues and figures displayed all over the zoological park which I’m sure children will really love.

Aside from the wonderful animal interactive activities waiting for you here at the Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo, the park also features a museum, the Safari Gallery, where you can find hundreds of displays and artifacts showcasing the beautiful history of wildlife from different places all over the world. The best part? There’s no entrance fee here at Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo!

READ THE BLOG POST: Baluarte Ilocos Sur Blog Post

5. Crisologo Museum

Another must-visit and educational destination waiting for you in Ilocos Sur are the Crisologo Museum. This ancestral house turned museum is owned by the Crisologo Family, one of the most powerful and prominent families in the province’s history. The head of the family, Floro Crisologo, was once a congressman of Ilocos Sur, and therefore became an important figure in the province’s political affairs.

Photo by Vigan Paradores

The museum contains the family’s antique memorabilia such as furniture, clothes, kitchen equipment, and many more. Visiting Crisologo Museum will give you a chance to go back in time and see how Filipinos lived throughout history.

6. Syquia Mansion Museum

The Syquia Mansion Museum on the other hand is also an ancestral home owned by Estefania Angco and Gregorio Syquia, who both belong to powerful Ilocano families. The mansion museum is located in Vigan City and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s highlighted buildings.

Photo by Inquirer Lifestyle

Exploring the museum will let you catch a glimpse of the Philippines’ rich culture during the Spanish Colonial Era featuring the family’s antique heirlooms and significant artifacts. Indeed, visiting the Syquia Mansion Museum allows us to travel back in time and understand the beauty of Filipino history through high-valued antiquities. A great experience is indeed waiting for you here!

7. Candon Church

The Saint John of Sahagun Parish Church or more popularly known as Candon Church is another significant religious landmark located in Ilocos Sur. The church was built in the year 1591 and is still used and visited up to this day. Unlike most of our featured destinations so far which are located in Vigan City, this one is located in the city of Candon , Ilocos Sur. Candon is dubbed the “Tobacco Capital of the Philippines” so obviously, the city specializes in Tobacco products and is in fact the largest producer of Virginia-type tobacco in the country.

Photo by Wikipedia

A unique experience is waiting for you here during your visit to Candon Church, so I suggest that you make the most of it and buy as many pasalubongs as you can!

8. Mindoro Beach of Vigan

Ah, finally! After a tiring day of walking and exploring all the stunning cultural buildings and landmarks of Vigan City, it’s time to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the beach.

Photo by TripAdvisor

So, where do we go from here? Well, there’s a famous beach destination near the city called the Mindoro Beach of Vigan known for its clean gray sands, deep blue waters, and the refreshing sea breeze. It is indeed the perfect place to relax and escape the cobblestone walkways of Vigan City. Oh, and it’s also a nice place to watch the sunset with your family and friends!

9. Sta. Maria Church

The Santa Maria Church is another significant religious structure located in Ilocos Sur and is popularly known for its unique design and architecture. Also known as the Our Lady of the Assumption Parish Church, the exterior design of the church features the use of bricks and mortar as its main components. This unique design justified the rich history of the Santa Maria Church because it was once used as a citadel during the Spanish Colonial Era where Spanish soldiers along with friars were camped.

The Santa Maria Church is undoubtedly one of the must-see tourist destinations in Ilocos Sur especially for Catholics because it is considered a National Cultural Treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

10. Plaza Salcedo

One of the reasons why Vigan City is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the country is because of the very people living in it. Yes, there are countless nostalgic buildings scattered all around but nothing beats the experience of interacting with the locals and learning more about their culture and history. Well, that being said, the best place in Vigan to do this is no other than the iconic Plaza Salcedo. The plaza and park are located at the heart of Vigan City where tourists can easily access significant landmarks such as the Saint Paul Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace, Vigan City Hall, and many more!

Plaza Salcedo is also a perfect place to buy souvenirs and other local products from the friendly vendors around. Oh, and don’t you dare miss the famous Dancing Fountain Show held in Plaza Salcedo featuring colorful jets of water and laser lights which is absolutely a visual treat for everyone!

11. Narvacan Church

Located at the place famously known as “The Town that Would Never Sink” or Narvacan , Ilocos Sur is another incredibly beautiful religious landmark. Narvacan Church or the Santa Lucia Parish Church is a must-visit destination for history buffs and heritage structure fans. There are tons of history tucked within this amazing structure because it was built way back in 1587 by the Augustinian priests. The church’s facade and exterior design are absolutely stunning so if ever you’re looking for ideas for your next Visita Iglesia adventure, then add Narvacan Church already to your list!

12. Padre Burgos House

Another beautiful ancestral home nestled within the heart of Vigan City is the Padre Burgos House. The famous priest and patriot Jose Burgos belongs to the iconic trio of GomBurZa, the three Filipino Catholic priests who were beheaded using the garrote. The GomBurZa became a huge part of the Philippine Revolution and inspired our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal to fight for our freedom.

The Padre Burgos House also serves as a museum where hundreds of important historical artifacts belong to major ethnic groups including the Ilocanos, Kankana-ey, and Itneg. Various antiquities like musical instruments, wooden coffins, jars, rare paintings, and many more are beautifully displayed here. And of course, a special section dedicated to Padre Jose Burgos can be found in the museum containing all of his life’s collection and personal memorabilia.

13. Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone

Ah, and there it is! Are you ready for another fun-filled and adrenaline-pumping experience you’ll never forget? Well, suit yourselves because that’s exactly what Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone will bring for us! This national park and adventure center is located at the boundaries of Bantay and Santa, Ilocos Sur. It’s actually near another must-visit landmark in the province, the Old Quirino Bridge.

Countless fun and exciting activities are waiting for you here at the ISAZ such as kayaking, rappelling, rock climbing, Zorb Balls, ziplines, and many more. It’s also a perfect chance to enjoy outdoor activities and be closer than ever to nature because there are rivers, mountains, and forests surrounding you. So, what are you waiting for? Come and visit Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone!

14. Pagburnayan Jar Factory

Pottery and jar-making are a huge part of Ilocos Sur’s culture, especially in the town of Pagburnayan. The people here use a century-old method of making Burnay Jars which are said to be more durable than the famous terracotta jars.

These jars are often used to store water, grains, and also the native Basi Wine. That’s why visiting a Pagburnayan Jar Factory during your visit to Ilocos Sur is a nice way to know more about the province’s cultural and traditional practices. Oh, and you can also buy some of their jars and clay pots as your souvenirs!

15. Hidden Garden

Ah, yes! As they say, it’s always nice to save the best for last. And by visiting the Hidden Garden last, which is actually a hidden gem in Vigan City, we are undoubtedly justifying that beautiful quote. Why? Well, it’s because the Hidden Garden gives us a glimpse of a tropical paradise and I’m sure our beloved plantitos and plantitas out there will fall in love with this place. There are beautiful plants and ornaments scattered all over the place which therefore gives you a chance to take unlimited Instagrammable photos of yourself!

The best part? There’s a restaurant there called the Lilong and Lilang Restaurant which serves some of the most delicious Ilocano dishes like Vigan Longganisa, Bagnet , Silog Meals, Sisig, and many more. See? What a beautiful ending to our Ilocos Sur adventure!

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15 Best VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS (Ilocos Sur)

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11 BEST Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots + Things to Do

Located in the northern part of the Philippines, Ilocos Sur is a province rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Notably, it’s also home to Vigan City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most popular destination in Ilocos Sur. Beyond Vigan City, you’ll find more interesting sights and activities to do here!

In this guide, we’ll take you to the best Ilocos Sur tourist spots and activities that you can do with your family or friends.

1. Vigan City

2. bantay church bell tower, 3. santa maria church, 4. pinakbet farm, 5. aw-asen falls, 6. pinsal falls, 7. santiago cove, 8. sangbay ni ragsak, 9. paracad view, 10. baluarte zoo, 11. buy pasalubong, where to stay in ilocos sur:, what to read next:.

Vigan City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture. Whether you’re visiting here for a day or staying overnight in one of its heritage hotels, you’ll surely enjoy strolling across Calle Crisologo , taking in the sights of houses, kalesa (horse-drawn carriages), and souvenir shops selling food and other takeaways.

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Don’t miss empanada at Irene’s, visiting the ancestral home-turned-museum Syquia Mansion, and the Dancing Fountain in Plaza Salcedo at night.

For a complete list of activities, check out our Guide to Vigan City .

Bantay Bell Tower - one of the top Vigan tourist spots

Located a short distance away from Vigan City is the Bantay Church Bell Tower, one of the landmark attractions in Ilocos Sur.

The structure was constructed in 1591 adjacent to the Saint Augustine Parish Church (also known as Bantay Church), one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It originally served as a lookout point and defense fortification against pirate attacks and other external threats during the Spanish colonial period and then again as a lookout point against invading forces during the WWII.

Bantay Tower has a beautiful neo-gothic facade, making it a popular spot for photos.

Unfortunately, in 2022 an earthquake damaged the bell tower. As of 2024, going inside the bell tower is still not allowed due to reconstruction efforts, but you can still see and take pictures of the Bantay Tower from outside.

By now, we know that Ilocos Region is home to a number of beautiful heritage churches, right? Santa Maria Church (also referred to as Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion) is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring a beautiful brick façade and a cylindrical bell tower.

The church is located atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

It gets busy on weekends on holidays, so if you want to go there for quiet and reflection, schedule your visit on a weekday.

A visit to Ilocos Sur won’t be complete without going on an gastronomic adventure. And so, next up on our list is Pinakbet Farm, a riverside restaurant located in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur.

Pinakbet Farm is a fantastic place to enjoy Filipino favorites, including their IsKarGu set meals (isda, karne, gulay) served with KBL (kamatis, bagoong, and lasona). While savoring the dishes cooked from farm-fresh ingredients, take a moment to appreciate the peaceful river and farm setting. You can also watch a cultural dance performance daily, starting at 12:30 NN to 1PM.

The food at Pinakbet Farm is delicious and reasonably priced. It’s perfect for everyone, from couples to large groups, making it a part of our best Ilocos Sur tourist spots.

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For those who like off-the-beaten-path adventure, one of the Ilocos Sur tourist spots that you should see is Aw-Asen Falls. Standing about 121 meters high, Aw-Asen Falls is considered the highest waterfall in the Ilocos Region. It’s tucked away in the mountains of Sigay, away from the main tourist crowd, making it a great spot for nature tripping.

To get here, you will need to go on a short but tiring trek for almost an hour. The trail mostly consists of mountain path and thick vegetation. Once at the waterfall area, don’t miss the chance to take photos of the majestic waterfall in its glory and take a dip in its cool, deep basin. It is said that the waterfall is fed by a spring uphill, so the water is safe to drink.

The best time to visit Aw-Asen Falls is from November to May.

Next up is one of the best-kept attractions in Ilocos Sur: Pinsal Falls.

Located in the town of Sta. Maria, Pinsal Falls is an 80-foot waterfall with a wide emerald-green basin for swimming. Locals also refer to it as “Twin Falls,” since the flowing cascade separates into two.

To get to the actual waterfall, you can go on a fun balsa ride or walk your way through a series of stairs. If you’re feeling adventurous, trek to the top of the waterfall, which offers a better view and a series of mini-pools where you can take a dip, jacuzzi-style.

There are cottages near the falls that you can rest for rest and picnicking. There are also bathrooms and toilets for refreshing.

The best time to visit Pinsal Falls is during the rainy season, when the flow of the waterfall swells up.

For those craving sun, sand, and sea, Santiago Cove (colloquially known as Sabangan Cove) in the town of Santiago beckons with its 1 kilometer stretch of white sand and clear waters. It is often likened to Boracay in Kalibo, Aklan.

At Santiago Cove, you can relax on the shore, go for a swim, or indulge in watersports like kayaking, paddleboating, jetski, and island hopping. There are also beachfront cabanas where you can rest while enjoying the view of the sea.

Santiago Cove is a great place to enjoy the summer and it’s a family-friendly destination, too!

Click here to book discounted rooms at Santiago Cove Hotel .

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Another natural attraction in Ilocos Sur that you should see is Sangbay ni Ragsak , Ilokano’s own “Falls of Happiness.” Sangbay ni Ragsak is a beautiful 30-meter waterfall with a wide basin that goes approximately 6-7 feet deep, perfect for swimming. It’s a great spot for a quick dip, especially as it is lesser crowded than other tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

Getting here is easy. From the registration point, the waterfall is only a short walk away. There are also cottages and tables along the trail that you can rent if you want to stay awhile.

Paracad View - one of the best Ilocos Sur tourist spots

Paracad View is a riverside dining restaurant built alongside a mangrove forest. “Paracad” is the Ilocano word for mangroves, and it aptly describes the tranquil mangrove forest view that you can enjoy while enjoying Ilokano favorites, including snacks such as empanada, lumpianada, and okay, as well as freshly caught seafood.

This restaurant is perfect for families. During the sunset, the place gives off a soft romantic vibe, so it’s ideal for couples as well.

Aside from dining and picture taking, kayaking activity is offered as well.

Owned by former Filipino politician Chavit Singson, Baluarte Zoo is a sprawling animal zoo located in Vigan City. Visitors can get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including tigers, ostriches, and reptiles, making it a fun-filled destination for families and animal lovers alike.

Note : I personally do not recommend any destination that engages in picture taking with captive tigers. I believe there are alternative animal sanctuaries that promote conservation. I’ve included Baluarte Zoo since it is one of the popular tourist spots in Ilocos Sur.

Finally, buy some pasalubong before your trip home! Vigan empanada, Vigan longganisa, bagnet, and chichacorn are favorite food souvenirs to take home. For recipients that love home cooking, take home a bottle or two of sukang iloko.

There are also shops in Ilocos Sur selling inabel clothing, bags, wallets, and other products.

How to get to Ilocos Sur

Here’s how to get from Manila to Ilocos Sur:

The most common way to commute is by taking a bus from Pasay or Cubao to Vigan . Travel is around 8-9 hours.

The closest airport is Laoag International Airport in Laoag City. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly from Manila to Laoag on selected days.

From the airport, ride a bus, van, or taxi to your destination in Ilocos Sur.

Here are the best hotels and resorts in Ilocos Sur:

Vigan City:

Hotel Felicidad . A charming hotel located just a short walk away from Calle Crisologo. Read our review .
Hotel Luna . The first museum hotel in the Philippines, featuring beautiful rooms, a gallery with original artworks from local artists including Juan Luna, and a pool. Read our review .
Santiago Cove Hotel
Vitalis White Sands

Do you have other places to recommend in our list of best Ilocos Sur tourist spots? Let us know in the comment section below!

Visiting the Ilocos Region? Read the rest of our articles!

Best Ilocos Norte Tourist Spots
Best Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots
Best Vigan Tourist Spots + Things to Do
Paoay Sand Dunes
Burgos Wind Farm

See our hotel reviews:

Hotel Felicidad (Vigan City)
Hotel Luna (Vigan City )

Get discounts on your travels!

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHERE

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

Gardens by the Bay - one of the free attractions in Singapore

21 Vigan tourist spots and Things to do in Vigan

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on November 10, 2023

Categories Philippines

We will tell you all the Vigan tourist spots and things to do in Vigan that you can try. Vigan is a city in the Philippines located in Ilocos Sur . It’s known for its preserved Spanish colonial and Asian architecture.

And because of its beauty and its well-preserved Spanish-era streets, Vigan has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Vigan is one of the oldest towns in the Philippines, so if you go there, you will experience the ancient feels of the city. You can not just enjoy the view, but Vigan can also make your tummy happy with the delicacies they have!

Read here our travel guide where to stay in Vigan

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 THE PHILIPPINES

You can get accommodation starting from 800-1000 PHP (less than $20 USD) for a room in a guesthouse. Can you imagine if you are two of you traveling in the Philippines, it will be $10 USD each.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH BOOKING AND AGODA !

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

GETTING TO VIGAN BY BUS FROM MANILA

If you are getting to Vigan from Manila by bus. There are buses that are en-route directly to Vigan like Viron, Ancieto and Partas bus. The ride will take at least 8 hours on the road and will costs around 700 PHP. This is perfect if you want to enjoy the sight seeing on the way to Vigan.

Click here to book online the bus ticket Manila to Vigan !

TRANSPORTATION AROUND VIGAN

The main transportation around Vigan is tricycle. There’s also a calesa, or a carriage that will be pulled by a horse. You can ride a calesa while exploring and sight seeing around Vigan. Prices for an hour around Vigan can be 200-300 PHP and it can fit until 4 people maximum. There are jeepneys vans or buses for longer distances.

Vigan isn’t a big city and you can go walking to most of the places.

ATM’S IN VIGAN

There are a number of ATM Machines in Vigan, but most are in the town area. There are different banks as well. There are also hotels that has ATM machines nearby the vicinity but it is still advisable to always bring cash for emergencies. There are also exchange offices if you are bringing cash.

Click here to know the exact exchange rate!

DAILY BUDGET TO VISIT VIGAN

For budget or DIY travelers, you’ll surely choose cheaper options especially when it comes to accommodation. before, Vigan used to be expensive to go to, but since the place began one of the best destination for travelers , foreign or local, DIY or budget travel is now very possible.

Including accommodation, food, transportation and some entrance fees on the side, you can go around Vigan for a day for 1500 PHP or even less!

With 1500 PHP can be a good budget with food, transportation and accommodation plus entrance fees to some spots since msot of them are with donation or free of charge.

You can go for local food for 50-70 PHP in local carenderias and around 150 PHP in local restaurants in Vigan where you will find Filipino and Western food.

For accommodation a budget room would cost minimum 1000 PHP ($20 USD) and you can go up to 5000 PHP . There are Airbnb options starting from $15-25 .

CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH BOOKING.

VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN VIGAN

If you want to explore Vigan and its charming colonial beauty, there are a lot things to do in Vigan. You can either book a tour package but of course, a DIY trip is also possible! Here are the activities and things you can try to do while you are in the beautiful place of Vigan.

1. EXPLORE PLAZA SALCEDO (VIGAN PLAZA)

The first in the list of Vigan tourist spots is Plaza Salcedo. The Main Plaza is Vigan is the first thing that we saw. It’s really beautiful for waking around. Next to Vigan Plaza you will find a few places to eat street food and restaurants around.

2. SAINT PAUL CATHEDRAL (VIGAN CATHEDRAL)

Vigan Cathedral is also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Paul the Apostle. Vigan Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral and it’s located closed to Crisologo Street and Plaza Burgos.

3. PLAZA SALCEDO FOUNTAIN SHOW

Dancing Fountain Show at Plaza Salcedo at 7 pm during weekdays and during the weekends there is a second show qt 8 30 pm. It;s so beautiful and is one of the Vigan tourist spots that you can’t skip.

4. VISIT SYQUIA MANSION

The Syquia Mansion is a Majestic, 19th-century stone mansion that features grand, opulent rooms , period furnishings & art. The Syquia Mansion tour is free, but a donation may be given to the caretaker.

5. VISIT FATHER JOSE BURGOS’ HOUSE

Padre Burgos House or also called National Museum, is the ancestral house and birthplace of priest patriot Fr. Jose Burgos. It is one of the notable historic structures of Vigan , the capital of the province of Ilocos Sur. It is a two-story structure located near the Provincial Capitol and close to St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral.

6. EXPLORE CRISOLOGO STREET

Calle Crisologo dominates the Mestizo district, with its cobblestone streets, malecón, horse-drawn carriages and rustic mansions, you will surely feel like you’ve been transferred to a different place, rather, to a different time!

Full of souvenirs and picturesque everywhere, you feel like walking around old towns in Spain. You can’t miss in the list of Vigan tourist spots.

7. VISIT CRISOLOGO MUSEUM

This Museum is the house of the late former politician Floro S. Crisologo. It is now turned into a museum with memorabilia & furniture. The Crisologo Museum is found along De Los Reyes Street in Vigan.

8. VISIT BALUARTE CHAVIT SINGSON

Baluarte Chavit Singson or Baluarte Zoo is a zoological park in Vigan, Ilocos Sur Philippine s that is owned by Chavit Singson . Baluarte is just ten minute drive from Vigan City. It features a number of live animals like ostrich, tigers, lions, ducks, camels, kangaroos, and deers among others that lives peacefully at the zoo.

There is also a butterfly garden and a gallery which showcases the owner’s collection from his trip to Safari. There is no entrance fee. Operating hours is 6AM to 6PM.

9. CRUISE MESTIZO RIVER

Mestizo River is a stream and is located in Province of Ilocos Sur, Ilocos, Philippines. Mestizo River has so much importance in history in Vigan. It was used to transport goods in the old times.

10. EXPERIENCE PAGBURNAYAN

Pagburnayan Jar Making is also a well know activity that most tourists that visits Vigan wants to experience. It is located in Brgy. Pagburnayan in Vigan. Pagburnayan is a place where they used the old and authentic methods in pottery.

The root word “burnay” is an earthenware jar crafted by potter’s hands with the aid of a potter’s wheel. It uses fine sand (anay) as a tempering material and fired at a high temperature in a huge brick-and-clay ground kiln that make it is harder and more durable than other terra cotta.

11. ABEL WEAVING

The Abel is the traditional woven used in Vigan. The Abel cloth is strong and colorful. Abel is made from yarns of cotton or sagut from the North Luzon where they are growing of this plant.

12. RIDE A CALESA

Experience riding the colonial era’s way of transportation! Kalesa is a horse-drawn carriage used during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines.

Up to this day, Kalesas can be seen anywhere in Vigan City and it’s one of the must experience activity while you are there. You can ride it for 200-300 PHP for an hour to move around these Vigan tourist spots.

13. VISIT BANTAY BELL TOWER

The Saint Augustine Parish Church , commonly known as Bantay Church , is a Roman Catholic church in Bantay, Ilocos Sur in the Philippines. The church was dedicated to St. Augustine of Hippo. It is also known as the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity.

Bantay Bell Tower is one of Vigan’s most iconic structure. Built in 1951, you can see the panoramic view of Vigan in this historical tower.

VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN VIGAN (OUTSIDE THE CITY)

14. mindoro beach.

This beach is located in Barangay Mindoro , located five kilometers east of the town center. The beach, which faces the West Philippine Sea, has dark but fine sands. It’s also one of the favorite places to go to by the the tourists because like most places on the Philippines in west coast, it offers a beautiful view of the sunset .

There are cottages where guests can chill and rest. One of the features that grabs the attention of the people visiting is the concrete breakwaters that looked like giant jackstones.

15. VISIT THE TWIN BRIDGE

Twin Bridge Quirino Bridge and Banaoang Bridge are located 15 kilometers far from Vigan crossing along the Abra River. Nowdays are only one of the Vigan tourist spots but it’s not used since it was damaged with the typhoon.

If you like adventure you can try the zip line in Vigan for 300 PHP one way. And there are also kayaks and you can climb and do rappeling.

VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN VIGAN FOOD TO TRY IN VIGAN

16. try longaniza.

Vigan longanisa is an Ilocano sausage delicacy with plenty of garlic and spices in the mixture. This longganisa is distinct from other native longganisa version because it is small and plump, it is not sweet unlike how the more popular longganisa tastes like.

Instead, The way to describe its taste is, it is spicy, salty, tangy and garlicky. You can see longaniza everywhere as street food, in local carinderias and restaurants in Vigan.

17. TRY EMPANADA

The Vigan empanada is much in keeping with the Vigan people’s love for vegetables in their cuisine. It is similar to a thin taco that is fried to a crisp, with vegetable and meat filling. Rice flour is used for making the crust or the shell.

The galapong or rice flour dough is made a day before it is used so it is a must taste if you are in Vigan. Empanadas with meat and vegetables you can find them everywhere. For 35 PHP as street food you can taste a good ones!

18. TRY SINANGLAO

Sinanglao is beef or carabao innards boiled in beef soup stock . The seller would then slice the innards and coagulated blood in your bowl and pour the boiling stock flavored with vinegar and kamias on it. You then add leaks and onion rings, according to your taste. The best energy for visiting all the Vigan tourist spots.

19. CAFE LEONA

Cafe Leona is a good place to have dinner. We liked it the pizza. They offer different cuisines with Western food and also local choices. The price was affordable. One of the Vigan tourist spots that you can find around Crisologo.

Bagnet is the double-fried crispy pork specialty of Ilocos. It’s a cross between chicharon and lechon kawali where the lean meat is crispy but not dry and the pork skin is fried to a crisp. You’ll taste the natural taste oh so yummy taste of the pork!

21. TINUBONG

Tinubong is another unique kakanin of the Ilocanos. They usually come from Magsingal a town up north of Vigan. Tinubong is made up of ground glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and sugar with strips of young coconut meats sealed in bamboo tubes.

Tinubong is a rice cake of sorts in Ilocos where sticky rice is cooked with coconut milk inside bamboos.

WHERE TO STAY IN VIGAN

From modern to colonial era style hotels to budget friendly and luxury hotels, Vigan has it all for you! You can splurge on the most luxurious stay or do a DIY and be on the budget side. No matter what you choose, Vigan will still ne enjoyable, for sure.

HOTEL FELICIDAD

Set in a restored, colonial heritage house, Hotel Felicidad offer Spanish-inspired architecture and air-conditioned rooms and suites with free WiFi. Located in Vigan, the hotel has a 24-hour front desk. Each soundproofed room and suite features a flat-screen cable TV and safe. A seating area, dining table and private bathroom with shower and free toiletries are included.

Other facilities include a tour desk, airport and shuttle services at a surcharge. Free parking is also available. Hotel Felicidad Restaurant serves both local and international cuisine. Room price starts at 3000 PHP a night.

Click here to check their rates and availability!

BERMUDEZ TRANSIENT ROOMS

Bermudez Transient Rooms in Vigan is located in Vigan, within 1.8 km of Calle Crisologo. With free WiFi and private parking are available on site. The private bathroom is equipped with a shower. An Asian breakfast is available every morning at the guesthouse. Room starts at 1000 PHP a night.

PARADORES DE VIGAN

Located in Vigan, Paradores de Vigan has a fitness center. The rooms has air conditioning, a microwave, a fridge, a electric tea pot, a shower, free toiletries and a desk. Featuring a private bathroom, rooms at the hotel also have free WiFi, while some rooms also feature a balcony.

All guest rooms in Paradores de Vigan are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a hair dryer. An Asian breakfast is served at the property. Room starts at 4999 PHP a night.

BALAY KAHEL

A garden and a terrace, as well as a shared lounge are offered in-house at Balay Kahel, which is located in Vigan, just one kilometer away from Bantay Bell Tower. The apartment is in an area where guests can engage in activities such as fishing and darts.

This air-conditioned apartment comes with 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV, and a kitchen. There’s a bathroom with a bath, a bidet and free toiletries. A car rental service is available at the apartment. One night can costs 1400 PHP.

FESTIVALS IN VIGAN

Viva vigan festival.

The Viva Vigan Festival of Arts is held during the first week of May. It includes dancing and music; and the highlight is the religious celebration on May 3 (Tres de Mayo), which starts with a Mass at Vigan’s cemetery chapel and continues with dancing in Crisologo Street and a kalesa parade.

VIGAN TOWN FIESTA

Vigan Town Fiesta is a week-long celebration consisting of carnivals, parades, musical extravaganzas, beauty contests and nightly cultural shows. It culminates on January 25 with the celebration of the conversion of St Paul the Apostle, the town’s patron saint.

WHERE TO STAY IN VIGAN? CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH BOOKING.

Hope it’s useful all the things to do in Vigan that we put together in our Vigan travel guide. Are we missing Vigan tourist spots or do you have any questions? Let us know in the comments below

Feel free to use our links for discounts. Using our links you 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.

Top 10 Activities and Tours in Vigan Ilocos Sur UNESCO World Heritage Site

10. Mindoro Beach Tour
9. Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone Tour
8. Baluarte Zoo Tour
7. Ilocano Food Tour
6. Weaving Tour
5. Pagburnayan Jar Factory Tour
4. Vigan Cathedral Tour
3. Bantay Church Bell Tower Tour
2. Museum Tour

National Museum

Crisologo museum, syquia mansion, arce mansion.

1. Calle Crisologo Tours

Relive History in Vigan

Vigan City in Ilocos Sur holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders Cities, having preserved the design and architecture of old Spanish communities.

This means attractions included in Vigan tours offer a historically and culturally enriching experience. It's as if you’re transported back to the 16th century when the Philippines came under the rule of the Spaniards. Museums, churches, and plazas are some of the primary places of interest in Vigan tour packages.

Book this 1-week Ilocos Baguio Sagada tour package

Besides being a seat of colonialism in the past, Vigan is home to must-visit recreational spots, including a beach with fine black sand, a zoological park, and a sports adventure zone. Vigan is also known for its restaurants and food shops featuring must-try delectable local dishes and snacks.

See our popular Vigan Tours and Activities

Ilocos sur vigan city heritage & sightseeing tour with horse-drawn carriage ride & transfers, vigan historical sightseeing city day tour with transfers & kalesa ride, fascinating 7-day history, heritage & nature tour to laoag, pagudpud & vigan ilocos from manila.

Bookmark this guide for the top 10 tours and activities to enjoy in the unique and beautiful city of Vigan.

10. Mindoro Beach Tour

(Please note that Mindoro Beach may not be open to the public during your visit. Make sure to double-check before your trip.)

Mindoro Beach has powdery black sand that makes it unique from other beaches in the Philippines . The beach directly faces no less than the West Philippine Sea. The currents can be strong so it is best to wade in the beach’s clear blue waters and admire the scenery without going into the deeper parts of the water.

Because of its location, it features magnificent sunset views The beach is being developed to offer better accessibility to tourists. You can join Vigan tours to get there easily and know the friendly and accommodating locals living here.

9. Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone Tour

(Please note that the Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone has been closed to the public since 2022 until further notice.)

The Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone is located at the foot of the jagged Banaoang mountain range, where Abra River is crossed by the twin Quirino bridges. It is famous for its 400-meter-long zip line. This exhilarating adventure will propel you way above the river crossing and bring you to the other side of it.

The ride, which spans across the towns of Santa and Bantay, will not only give you an adrenaline rush but also a magnificent view of Ilocos Sur’s picture-perfect natural gems.

See our popular Adventure and Nature Parks

Scenic 2-day treasure mountain rizal camping package with daranak falls side trip & transfers, rizal treasure mountain day pass with breakfast, obstacle course, giant seesaw & bosay falls trek, breathtaking 2-day treasure mountain rizal camping package with breakfast.

Getting to the Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone is a 15-minute drive from Vigan City. The entrance to the facility is just alongside the main road, so access will never be a problem. You’ll be making your way to the zip line by climbing a 5-story sturdy concrete platform. Feel the excitement build up as you inch closer to the topmost level of the platform, where your zip line adventure awaits.

Other activities they offer are their giant swing, kayaking, rock climbing, and rappelling along the mountain slopes.

8. Baluarte Zoo Tour

Baluarte means “encampment.” It can also be a loose term for a zoo, which is the exact fitting description for this private property that belongs to a prominent government leader in the Ilocandia province. Baluarte Zoo is a 100-hectare zoological park that houses all sorts of animals. It has livestock, such as sheep, goats, ducks, chickens, and ponies. There is also an aviary with exotic and local birds, including ostriches.

See our popular Baluarte Zoo Tours

Ilocos sur tour to baluarte zoo & nature park for half-day with transfers from vigan.

You will also encounter wild animals from snakes and crocodiles to lions and tigers. You can have a good look at the animals in Baluarte Zoo by watching the daily shows. For picture-taking, the larger-than-life replicas of dinosaurs are a safer option than standing next to live animals, especially the wild ones.

Admission is free, and it’s best to visit in the morning to catch the animals being fed and roaming the open grounds with their trainer.

7. Ilocano Food Tour

From the city center of Vigan, it will only take you a few minutes of walking to reach the plazas of Padre Burgos and Padre Salcedo, where you can enjoy selfie photo-ops in the park. All that walking will probably make you hungry, not to mention your sense of smell will be brought to life with the freshness of Ilocos empanada filling the air, a deep-fried pastry made from rice flour and filled with seasoned meat, vegetables, and eggs. You can eat this street delicacy on the go or sitting down in hole-in-the-wall food joints. For a more intimate dining experience, you’ll find several old-fashioned to more contemporary restaurants offering authentic Ilocano dishes that are also a hit in the international food scene. For instance, sinanglaw is the counterpart of Vietnam’s pho, which you can sip on its own as a soup or eaten with rice for a full meal. Try the crispy fried pork belly known as bagnet paired with pakbet, a vegetable dish with fermented fish or small shrimps (bagoong) which is a common ingredient of many dishes from Ilocos. While you’re in Vigan, be sure to sample some sausage or longganisa , a staple food in the Philippines but what you’ll have is the Vigan version. You’ll know it’s Vigan longganisa with its salty, tangy, and garlicky taste that will leave very nice flavors in your mouth. Bring home a pack or two to remind you of your food tour in Vigan.

See our popular Food Tours

Manila binondo & intramuros full-day tour with guide & transfers, iloilo city food tour & sightseeing with transfers | la paz batchoy, pancit molo, jaro church, bohol loboc river cruise lunch with private transfers from panglao, 6. weaving tour.

Explore the creative side of Ilocos when you visit the shops of Abel Iloco Weaving, Cristy’s Loom Weaving, or Rowilda’s Weaving. These are local businesses that feature products made by weaving, the art of turning loom into fabric that flourished during the Spanish colonial period.

It all starts with spinning the yarn into balls and then feeding the thread into the weaver. From there, all the bright colors are turned into a wonderful piece of clothing.

See our popular Cultural Tours

Bohol chocolate hills countryside private tour with transfers & add-on loboc river cruise lunch, bohol countryside private tour & shared loboc river lunch cruise with transfers, bohol countryside private tour with loboc river cruise lunch & transfers from cebu city.

Vigan weaving tours are very educational since they show the origins of the textile industry, helping you understand what clothes have to go through to become skirts, dresses, or pants. You’ll also be inspired to watch how weavers create export-quality and well-designed masterpieces using locally sourced materials.

Other loom weave products are blankets, shawls, bags, table runners, and glass holders.

5. Pagburnayan Jar Factory Tour

Pagburnayan or jar-making workshops represent the Ilocos region’s rich history. In Vigan, the Pagburnayan Jar Factory is one of the few remaining jar factories that have stood the test of time.

The term pagburnayan came from the root word “burnay” or clay pot, which shows how deeply rooted in pottery Vigan is.

In this tour, you’ll get to learn about the art of making jars, which came from Chinese traders who chose to establish their families in Vigan by living among the Ilocandians during the colonial times. Fermented bagoong, homemade vinegars, and artisanal wines are aged in these jars. By joining the tour, you’ll have a first-hand experience of turning clay into earthenware jars using traditional tools. First, a stone wheel is used to shape the clay and cook it to its durable form in-ground kilns. The kilns are fired up to extremely high temperatures for the jars to come out very strong. You can also add designs or patterns to take your pottery-making experience to the next level.

4. Vigan Cathedral Tour

Vigan Cathedral is an easily-seen landmark just fronting Plaza Salcedo. The church is also called the Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, as the church is dedicated to converting the famous saint to Christianity.

One of the oldest churches in Vigan, the cathedral is an impressive model of Baroque architecture. It was commissioned by Juan de Salcedo in 1574. But it was refurbished at the turn of the 18th century. The residence of martyr Father Jose Burgos is just a stone’s throw from there.

The bell tower is located just across the street at Plaza Burgos, which is why you’ll typically see visitors taking souvenir shots in this important landmark.

This characteristic is also a strong clue to the Baroque design of the church. During that era, church construction separated the bell tower from the main building to help it withstand natural calamities like earthquakes. Today, the ancient church is more earthquake-proof, as locals have added reinforcements to the structure while keeping its beauty and grandeur.

3. Bantay Church Bell Tower Tour

Bantay Church Bell Tower in Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Located within the compound of Saint Augustine Parish Church, the belfry overlooks the Bantay district in northeastern Vigan.

It undoubtedly gives one of the best views of Vigan, but be ready to climb a winding staircase to reach the top of the structure. Here, you’ll find the bell tower that the locals used to check for approaching invaders during the Spanish period and then World War II. The bell and all of its enormous size sit firmly right in the center of the tower.

Upon your descent from the tower, you’ll want to do the traditional snapshot, wherein you stand at the foot of the hill so that it looks like your palm is holding the tower. Couples can also join their hands to create a heart shape with the belfry appearing to be enclosed in it.

You can also spend a minute reflecting or meditating from the church's gardens, which the locals call Chapel by the Ruins.

See our popular Ilocos Vacation Packages

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Crisologo Museum along A. Reyes Street in Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Museum hopping is a top activity in most Vigan tour packages. Museum tours let you travel into the past and have a glimpse of how ilustrados or rich, educated Filipinos lived during the Spanish regime since many of these museums were mansions back then. Some must-visit Vigan museums to include in your Ilocos itinerary are:

The National Museum in Vigan is a compound which houses Padre Jose Burgos’s residence and President Quirino’s museum. Padre Burgos’ home is also known as bahay na bato (house of stone), where you’ll see his personal effects on display. Some of the most memorable items to view here are the writing tools he used to pen letters and papers. Meanwhile, the central objects in President Quirino’s museum include his presidential suits and a replica of the president’s office. A chest with ornate designs gifted to him by Chinese nobleman Chiang Kai-shek sits in the middle of the office.

It houses the memoirs and personal effects of late statesman Floro S. Crisologo, including the last pair of trousers he wore before being assassinated in St. Paul’s Cathedral.

The Syquia Mansion is named after the wife of President Elpidio Quirino and is where the couple resided. The stone mansion is a typical ancestral house with generous ceiling level, old wood flooring on the second level, antique furniture, authentic Chinaware, and majestic family portraits. The ground floor has a vintage carriage as its centerpiece, which depicts the mode of transportation used by upper-class families like the Syquias.

See our popular Museum Tours

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Here, you can have a unique cosplay-like experience, as the staff help you into elaborate costumes of your choice. Each of these costumes represent how people of different social classes showed themselves in public during the Spanish era. They also serve dinner dressed in fancy suits from the period. The museum offers lodging accommodations if you wish to extend your visit by staying for a night or two.

1. Calle Crisologo Tours

Kalesa strolling along Calle Crisologo in Vigan

Calle Crisologo is the first thing that comes to mind whenever Vigan City is mentioned because it’s the area’s most popular and visited tourist attraction. The street is considered the mestizo district and has the iconic look of old Spanish towns made of cobblestone grounds and pavements with ancestral houses on both sides of the street.

The street is also lined with shops selling bespoke kalesa wheels, native food products, hand-woven clothes and blankets, and other similar handcrafted goodies. Some of the best hotels in Vigan are also located in Calle Crisologo.

See our popular Calle Crisologo Tours

Ilocos sur tour to local production sites, weaving & empanada-making with transfers from vigan.

Calle Crisologo takes you back to a time of horse-drawn carriages, so grab the chance to take a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) ride. It’s a virtual panoramic tour, which saves you from tons of walking and lets you enjoy the sights in style.

The ride is a standard one-hour tour around the city center. It traverses Calle Crisologo with side trips on the Heritage Village, Vigan Cathedral, and lastly, Plaza Burgos. Calle Burgos rides also vary. You may want to haggle with your horseman and figure out what would fit your budget and which stops you’d like to have.

By nighttime, crowds gather at Calle Crisologo to eat, drink, listen to music, and share stories about their Vigan tour.

Vigan is an important part of the Filipino culture and heritage. Tour around the country’s old churches, mansions and museums, and natural sceneries. Discover everything Ilocandia from the cuisine, artistry, and more in Vigan.

With this article about Vigan tours and tour packages, can now plan your trip better and create the best Ilocos itinerary to experience the highlights of Vigan.

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2023 Vigan Tourist Spots + 11 Things To Do in Vigan & Ilocos Sur

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COMMENTS

Top 13 Vigan City Tourist Spots: Historic UNESCO World Heritage Site
While in Vigan, make sure to check some interesting immersions in Crisologo Museum. 6. Visit the Pagburnayan Jar Factory. One good thing about touring Vigan is that you get to learn a lot about its history, culture, and way of life through the town's homegrown establishments.
15 Best VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS (Ilocos Sur)
2. Bantay Church Bell Tower. Our next destination is considered one of the most significant historical and religious symbols of Ilocos Sur. The Bantay Church Bell Tower was built in 1591 and was originally intended to be the watchtower of the town of Bantay, Ilocos Sur. For many centuries, the tower watched over the safety of the people living ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Vigan
By elasardido. I was stunned and amaze of the vintage road and buildings for restaurants, fast food chains and souvenir shops. 2. Dancing Fountain. 390. Points of Interest & Landmarks. By coolexplorer313. Its really a wonderful to watch the dancing fountain together with all the visitors and local people around.
11 Things to do in Vigan + Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots
Plaza Salcedo and St. Paul Cathedral, Vigan. Location: Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. Save on Google Maps. 4. Bantay Church Bell Tower. Bantay Watchtower near Vigan. Location: Bantay, Ilocos Sur. Save on Google Maps. 5. Nuestra Senora Dela Caridad Church. Nuestra Senora Dela Caridad Church in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
17+ BEST VIGAN Tourist Spots + Things to Do
Here we've compiled the best Vigan tourist spots and things you can do in this heritage city. Note: As of May 2023, a few of these Vigan City tourist spots are still under re-construction due to damages from a strong earthquake the year prior, including Vigan Cathedral and Bantay Church Bell Tower. Arce Museum, Syquia Museum, and Ilocos Sur ...
Top 10 Vigan City Tourist Spots for Your Ilocos Itinerary
Vigan City tourist spots for sightseeing. 7. Plaza Burgos. Photo credit: Joelaldor. Since Father José Burgos was born in Vigan City, a number of sites in Ilocos were built to honor him and that includes the Plaza Burgos. It is located in the heart of Vigan City in the middle of Burgos, Crisologo, Florentino, and Jacinto streets.
Vigan Ilocos Sur Travel Guide: What to Do + Hotels + Itinerary
Discover Vigan City in Ilocos Sur, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders Cities. Find out the best time to go, top tourist spots and activities you shouldn't miss, must-try food, best hotels to stay in, and how to plan your itinerary with this guide. Vigan City is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders ...
Top 24 Best VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS + Things to do
Vigan, a charming city in the Ilocos Sur province of the Philippines, is a popular tourist destination known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial-era architecture. In 1999, Vigan was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
7 Days Ilocos Itinerary: Vigan, Laoag, Pagudpud, Adams and More
A Vigan itinerary comprises top Vigan tourist spots, which may include the following: Calle Crisologo; Photo by Department of Tourism. Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur province, is one of the most beautiful streets in the Philippines, even though it is only 500 meters long. It's lined with stone homes that are hundreds of years old ...
13 Vigan Tourist Spots That You Shouldn't Miss
Unlike Syquia Mansion and Crisologo Museum, the Villa Angela Heritage House is an ancestral home that was turned into a bed and breakfast. You can find here a photo of Tom Cruise with the owner back when he stayed in 1989. Location: 26 Quirino Blvd., Vigan City. Rates start at P3,300+.
Top 20 Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots: Host of the Heritage City of Vigan
14. Vigan Cathedral. Also called the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Paul the Apostle, the Vigan Cathedral played an important role in the history of the Ilocanos. It's one of the recognized historical tourist spots in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, designed by Juan de Salcedo. It's just a walking distance from the famous Calle Crisologo.
Vigan Tourist Spots + Travel Guide
From Laoag, take a bus going to Vigan City. There are buses traveling from Manila to Ilocos Sur such as Partas Buses, Dominion Bus Lines, Aniceto Bus, and Viron Transit. Travel time from Manila is approximately 8 10 hours covering 408-kilometer ride.
VIGAN TRAVEL GUIDE
Address: Quirino Blvd., Vigan City, Ilocos Sur Contact Number: +63 (947) 209-4065 GPS Coordinates: 17.562106, 120.386433 ESCOLTA HOMEY LODGE Address: Crisologo St., Vigan City, Ilocos Sur ... VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS MAP. VIGAN SAMPLE ITINERARIES. Vigan City can be toured in one whole day. During my first visit, ...
Historic City of Vigan
Historic City of Vigan. Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and ...
Vigan Tourist Spot Guide
Aside from the many Vigan tourist spots, Ilocos Sur is also known for its empanada. It is a fried stuffing rolled in a flour dough with vibrant, orange color. The filling combines a mixture of shredded green papaya, minced pork sausage (longganisa), and a raw egg, rolled together and deep-fried. Try tasting their Sinanglaw as well.
6 must-see tourist spots in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
On December 2, 1999, Vigan became part of the UNESCO World Heritage List, thanks to its unique Spanish colonial history in Asia, well-preserved Spanish monuments and edifices, and thriving cultural heritage. When you've finally decided to drive up north and visit, don't miss this Skyscanner list of the best tourist spots in Vigan. ## Put on ...
Must-see Vigan tourist spots, Ilocos Sur
1. Calle Crisologo. Running over five blocks in the historic center of Vigan City, Calle Crisologo is the popular tourist destination with many of the Spanish colonial homes in the street converted into shops, restaurants, inns and other tourist attractions that give you a taste of what this colonial city looks like with cobble stone streets and kalesa horse buggies ply through the main ...
Vigan
2nd Floor, Vigan public market beside benjos drug store. infront of meat section, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Family-friendly. Yes. Average rating. 4.6. Number of reviews. 1443. Vigan. ... The main tourist attractions in Vigan City are close to each other, and best explored by foot. This way, you will go at your own pace and be able to ...
THE 10 BEST Tourist Spots in Vigan 2024: Things to Do & Places to Go
Dancing Fountain. 390. Points of Interest & Landmarks. By coolexplorer313. Its really a wonderful to watch the dancing fountain together with all the visitors and local people around. A relaxing... 3. Bantay Bell Tower. 415.
15 Best ILOCOS SUR Tourist Spots (Heritage & Nature)
11. Narvacan Church. Located at the place famously known as "The Town that Would Never Sink" or Narvacan, Ilocos Sur is another incredibly beautiful religious landmark. Narvacan Church or the Santa Lucia Parish Church is a must-visit destination for history buffs and heritage structure fans.
11 BEST Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots + Things to Do
6. Pinsal Falls. Pinsal Falls. Next up is one of the best-kept attractions in Ilocos Sur: Pinsal Falls. Located in the town of Sta. Maria, Pinsal Falls is an 80-foot waterfall with a wide emerald-green basin for swimming. Locals also refer to it as "Twin Falls," since the flowing cascade separates into two.
21 Vigan tourist spots and things to do in Vigan
Here are the activities and things you can try to do while you are in the beautiful place of Vigan. 1. EXPLORE PLAZA SALCEDO (VIGAN PLAZA) The first in the list of Vigan tourist spots is Plaza Salcedo. The Main Plaza is Vigan is the first thing that we saw. It's really beautiful for waking around.
Top 10 Activities and Tours in Vigan Ilocos Sur UNESCO World Heritage
Vigan City in Ilocos Sur holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders Cities, having preserved the design and architecture of old Spanish communities.. This means attractions included in Vigan tours offer a historically and culturally enriching experience. It's as if you're transported back to the 16th century when the Philippines came under the rule ...

11 Things to do in Vigan + Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots

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Top 10 Vigan City Tourist Spots for Your Ilocos Itinerary

Vigan City tourist spots for historical and cultural immersion

2. Crisologo Museum

3. National Museum of the Philippines – Ilocos (NMP – Ilocos)

4. Vigan Cathedral

5. Pagburnayan Jar Factory

6. Bantay Church Bell Tower

Vigan City tourist spots for sightseeing

8. Plaza Salcedo

9. Baluarte Zoo

10. Mindoro Beach

Top 24 Best VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS + Things to do

Top 24 Tourist Spots in Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Historical Landmarks

Walking Tour of Calle Crisologo

Visit Syquia Mansion

Crisologo Museum

Vigan Cathedral

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Padre Jose Burgos House

Arce Mansion

Cultural Experiences

Visit Pagburnayan

Abel Weaving

Experience Vigan Kalesa Ride

Ilocos Museum Regional Complex

Local Cuisine

Eat at Café Leona

Outdoor Activities

Mindoro Beach

Baluarte Zoo

Visit Mestizo River

Festivals and Events

Vigan Town Fiesta

Viva Vigan Festival of Arts

Shopping and Souvenirs

Plaza Burgos

RG Jar Factory

Antique and Jewelry Hunting

Accommodation

Vigan Hotels

Airbnb in Vigan

Travel Information

Other Travel Tips

Contact Info

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-visit museums in Vigan?

Where is the best place to stay in Vigan to access its tourist spots?

What is Vigan City known for, and what are some of its famous attractions?

What are some popular tourist spots in Ilocos Sur besides Calle Crisologo?

Vigan, Ilocos Sur Travel and Tour Packages

Written by Melo Villareal

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13 Vigan Tourist Spots That You Shouldn’t Miss

How To Get To Vigan

From Baguio

Important Things To Know About Vigan

Vigan Tourist Spots

Syquia Mansion

Crisologo Museum

Villa Angela Heritage House

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Padre Burgos House

Mindoro Beach of Vigan

Arce Mansion

Abel-Iloko Weaving Community