Bacolod Travel Guide

Explore Bacolod in Negros Occidental, Philippines. Learn about the must-see attractions, the food and drink scene, the local culture and customs, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bacolod

Bacolod is a city located in Negros Occidental, in the Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and delicious food. Bacolod is often called the “City of Smiles” because of the friendly nature of its locals.

List of Places to Visit in Bacolod

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Negros Museum: This museum features exhibits on the cultural heritage, history, and people of Negros Occidental. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
  • Balay Negrense: This 19th-century ancestral house turned museum showcases the lifestyle of the sugar barons during the Spanish colonial period. It is open from Monday to Sunday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
  • San Sebastian Cathedral: This Catholic church was built in the late 1700s and is an impressive example of Spanish colonial architecture.

Natural Attractions of Bacolod: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mambukal Mountain Resort: This nature park is located in the mountainous region of Murcia, about 30 minutes from Bacolod. It offers scenic hiking trails, hot springs, and a butterfly garden.
  • Campuestohan Highland Resort: This picturesque resort is located on a hill and offers panoramic views of Bacolod City. It has various attractions, including a zipline, a giant slide, and a log cabin.
  • The Ruins: This historical landmark is the remains of a grand mansion built by a sugar baron in the early 1900s. It is surrounded by lush gardens and is often used as a backdrop for weddings and photo shoots.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bacolod

  • Mount Mandalagan: This mountain is located in the Kanlaon National Park, just outside of Bacolod. It is a challenging hike that takes about 5-6 hours to complete. The reward is a breathtaking view of Negros Island.
  • Punta Bulata White Beach: This beach is located in the southern part of Negros Occidental. It is a popular spot for relaxing and water activities, including snorkeling and diving.

Best Things to Do in Bacolod: Activities and Tours

  • Food tour: Bacolod is known for its food, including chicken inasal and seafood. A food tour is a great way to sample the local cuisine.
  • MassKara Festival: This festival is celebrated every October and is known for its colorful masks and costumes. It is a great way to experience the local culture.
  • Island hopping: Bacolod is located near several small islands, including Guimaras and Danjugan Island. A tour of these islands allows travelers to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bacolod

Day Activities
1 Arrival in Bacolod, check-in at hotel/hostel/guesthouse, visit San Sebastian Cathedral, Negros Museum
2 Hike Mount Mandalagan, visit Mambukal Mountain Resort
3 Island hopping tour to Guimaras
4 Food tour in Bacolod
5 Visit Balay Negrense, Campuestohan Highland Resort
6 Explore Danjugan Island
7 Departure from Bacolod

Food and Drink Scene of Bacolod

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken inasal: This grilled chicken dish is a specialty of Bacolod. It is marinated in a mixture of spices and served with rice and a dipping sauce.
  • Piaya: This sweet pastry is made of muscovado sugar and flour. It is a popular snack or dessert.
  • Cansi: This soup is made with beef shanks and bone marrow. It is served with sour fruits and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Biscocho Haus coffee: This coffee is made from beans grown in the highlands of Negros Occidental. It is served at Biscocho Haus, a popular snack shop in Bacolod.
  • Bacolod rum: This rum is known for its smooth and distinct flavor. It is made from sugar cane grown in Negros Occidental.

Where to Stay in Bacolod: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • L’Fisher Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Bacolod City and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • 11th Street Bed and Breakfast: This hostel is located near the city center and is known for its clean and cozy rooms.
  • Avenue Suites: This guesthouse is located in Lacson Street, one of the main streets in Bacolod. It offers affordable rooms and a central location.

What to Buy in Bacolod: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Biscocho: This pastry is a popular souvenir from Bacolod. It is made of butter and sugar and is often sold in boxes.
  • Bacolod masks: These masks are worn during the MassKara Festival and are make for unique souvenirs.
  • Bamboo crafts: Bacolod is known for its bamboo crafts, including baskets and furniture.

Local Culture and Customs of Bacolod

Bacolod is known for its friendly and hospitable people. It is also a predominantly Catholic city, so it is important to be respectful of religious traditions and practices.

Best Time to Visit Bacolod

The best time to visit Bacolod is from October to December when the weather is cool and dry. This is also the season of the MassKara Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bacolod

Do:

  • Sample the local cuisine
  • Visit historical landmarks and museums
  • Be respectful of cultural traditions and practices

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in religious spaces
  • Touch coral reefs while snorkeling or diving
  • Litter in public spaces

Safety and Health

Safety in Bacolod

Bacolod is a relatively safe city, but travelers should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect their valuables.

Health in Bacolod

Travelers should drink only bottled water and be cautious when eating street food. Mosquitoes are prevalent in the region, so it is important to bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants.

Getting to Bacolod: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bacolod

  • Bacolod-Silay International Airport: This airport is the main airport serving Bacolod. It has direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities in the Philippines.

Bus Stations Near Bacolod

  • Ceres North Terminal: This terminal serves buses traveling to and from destinations north of Bacolod, including Bacolod City and Iloilo City.
  • Ceres South Terminal: This terminal serves buses traveling to and from destinations south of Bacolod, including Sipalay City and Dumaguete City.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are available throughout Bacolod City and are a convenient way to get around.
  • Tricycles: These motorized rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Bacolod and are ideal for short distances.

How to Get Around in Bacolod

The most convenient way to get around Bacolod is by taxi or tricycle. Jeepneys are also available and are a more economical option.

Where to Go Next from Bacolod: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Danjugan Island: This small island is a marine sanctuary home to many species of fish and sea turtles. It is about a 2-hour boat ride from Bacolod.
  • Dumaguete City: This city is known for its universities and scenic beaches. It is about a 5-hour bus ride from Bacolod.
  • Iloilo City: This city is known for its historical landmarks, religious sites, and delicious food. It is about a 3-hour bus ride from Bacolod.

Conclusion

Bacolod is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its delicious food to its friendly locals, there are plenty of reasons to visit. Whether you’re hiking a mountain or exploring a museum, Bacolod offers something for everyone.

Masskara Masskara ''Ang Paghimud-os'' in Provincial Capitol Lagoon ''Ang Paghimud-os'' in Provincial Capitol Lagoon The Man and Carabao statue in the Provincial Lagoon The Man and Carabao statue in the Provincial Lagoon San Sebastian Cathedral San Sebastian Cathedral Negros Museum Building. Negros Museum Building. Lanterns are lighted around the city during Bacolaodiat; Chinese New Year. Lanterns are lighted around the city during Bacolaodiat; Chinese New Year. Masskara Masskara La Consolacion College Bacolod and the San Sebastian Cathedral at its side. La Consolacion College Bacolod and the San Sebastian Cathedral at its side. 888 Chinatown Square Mall is a budget mall in Bacolod. 888 Chinatown Square Mall is a budget mall in Bacolod. Robinson's Place Bacolod Robinson's Place Bacolod A man selects fish for his dish at the Pala-pala market A man selects fish for his dish at the Pala-pala market