Iloilo City Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food and drink, accommodations, shopping, and local customs and traditions in Iloilo City and surrounding areas.


Introduction to Iloilo City

Iloilo City, located in the Visayas region of the Philippines, is known for its historic buildings, beautiful churches, and local cuisine. The city, also known as the “Heart of the Philippines,” is the capital of the province of Iloilo and is composed of seven districts. The city is a bustling metropolis and a perfect destination for travelers seeking to experience a mix of modern and tradition in the Philippines.

List of Places to Visit in Iloilo City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors can explore the rich history of Iloilo City by visiting its many museums and historical sites. The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, including the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases modern art from across the Philippines. The Museo Iloilo is another popular museum in the city, complete with exhibits on the region’s cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Other must-visit historical sites include the Jaro Cathedral, Fort San Pedro, and Molo Church.

Natural Attractions of Iloilo City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Iloilo City is not just a city, but it’s blessed with natural gems as well. Visitors who wish to connect to nature can visit the nearby Guimaras Island, which is famous for its white sand beaches, watersports activities, and delicious mangoes. The Taklong Island National Marine Reserve, home to a rich marine life and lovely white beaches, is another perfect place for a day trip. Or, visitors can take a leisurely stroll through La Paz Public Market, one of the city’s most bustling markets and sample some of the region’s iconic street foods.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Iloilo City

Outdoor enthusiasts can take a hike or bike for a refreshing break in the city. The nearby Madia-as Mountain Range offers challenging hiking trails, and the city has numerous parks, such as the Iloilo River Esplanade, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely bike ride or jog.

Best Things to Do in Iloilo City: Activities and Tours

There are several activities and tours to do in Iloilo City. Visitors can take a city tour on a jeepney, a uniquely Filipino way to explore the city while experiencing the local way of life. Another popular tour is the Iloilo Food Tour, which takes visitors on a culinary journey through the city, sampling its diverse cuisine. Or visitors can take a heritage tour which would take them through the historical sites and immerse them into the culture and architecture of the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Iloilo City

For a week filled with unique experiences, visitors can try the suggested itinerary below:

Day 1: Arrive in Iloilo, explore the city center with particular emphasis on its museums and galleries. Day 2: Visit the neighboring Guimaras island for a refreshing dip and manggoes binge. Day 3: Take a heritage tour of Iloilo city and explore historical sites, churches, and landmarks. Day 4: Go on an Iloilo food tour, sample the famous dishes like La Paz Batchoy or Pancit Molo. Day 5: Hike or bike the mountain trails at Madia-as Mountain Range, or explore more parks in the city. Day 6: Discover traditional weaving at Hablon sa Baryohan and get yourself a souvenir. Day 7: Depart from Iloilo and say goodbye to an unforgettable experience.

Food and Drink Scene of Iloilo City

Must-Try Dishes

Known for its unique flavors, Iloilo City’s local food scene is a must-try for visitors. The famous La Paz Batchoy, Pancit Molo, and KBL (Kadyos, Baboy, Langka) are some of the must-try dishes that embody the region’s cuisine. There is an abundant number of restaurants and street food vendors to find these dishes.

Local Beverages

One of the popular drinks in Iloilo City is the Calamansi Juice, made from the fruit of the Calamansi tree. The city is also known for its homemade Pineapple wine and Basi, an alcoholic drink made from sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Iloilo City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Iloilo City has several accommodations to suit different budgets, ranging from luxury hotels to hostels and guesthouses. The city center is a popular choice among visitors as it offers easy access to the city’s main attractions. The country’s hotels like Iloilo Grand Hotel, Richmonde Hotel, and Sarrosa International Hotel are in the city center, few kilometers away from Iloilo International Airport.

What to Buy in Iloilo City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home a piece of the city by purchasing some of its local products and souvenirs. The city is home to several malls and markets to shop for local handmade crafts, baskets, and textiles. The Hablon sa Baryohan is one such place that showcases traditional weaving.

Local Culture and Customs of Iloilo City

The people of Iloilo are known for their warm hospitality and openness to new friendships. The city is also recognized for its elaborate festivals, such as the Dinagyang Festival, where the streets come alive with dance and music performances. Visitors are expected to dress appropriately, and it is customary to address elders and authority figures with respect.

Best Time to Visit Iloilo City

Iloilo City can be visited throughout the year; however, December to May remains the most favorable period. The dry months of December to February are perfect for beach hopping and outdoor activities. Meanwhile, the city turns vibrant with festivities and celebrations from January to February due to Dinagyang Festival, which attract tourists from various parts of the world.

Do’s and Don’ts of Iloilo City

Do:

  • Be respectful and courteous to the locals and other visitors.
  • Try and sample the local cuisine and delicacies.
  • Dress modestly when visiting public places and respect the culture and religion of the locals.

Don’t:

  • Show any disrespect or disregard towards cultural and religious practices in the region.
  • Be impolite or indecent to the people of the region and other tourists.
  • Bargain excessively in markets. Offer a fair price for the products being sold.

Safety and Health

Safety in Iloilo City

Overall, Iloilo City is considered safe for travelers. However, visitors are advised to take appropriate precautions as with any other city and avoid dark alleys or areas that seem unfamiliar.

Health in Iloilo City

Visitors to Iloilo City should travel with travel insurance and have all necessary vaccinations before embarking on a trip. It is also important to have proper sanitation and hygiene practices to avoid contracting any waterborne diseases.

Getting to Iloilo City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Iloilo City

The Iloilo International Airport is the most convenient way to get to the city, with direct flights from various parts of Asia and other parts of the Philippines.

Bus Stations Near Iloilo City

There are various types of buses available that commute to Iloilo city from other parts of the Philippines. Visitors can also take a bus to the city’s neighboring provinces such as Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and Negros for some exciting adventures.

Other Options

Ferry services from nearby ports are available for visitors to reach Iloilo City. Visitors can take a ferry from Bacolod city, the nearest city that has a seaport from Iloilo.

How to Get Around in Iloilo City

The city of Iloilo has a comprehensive transportation system that includes jeepneys and taxis, which run on fixed routes. Another popular mode of transport is the tricycle, which is perfect for small trips within the city. Visitors can also take a ferry to neighboring towns and islands.

Where to Go Next from Iloilo City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Guimaras Island

A popular destination for nature lovers, Guimaras Island is known for its white sand beaches, clear waters full of marine life, and delicious mangoes.

Bacolod City

The capital of the neighboring province of Negros Occidental, Bacolod City, is famous for its Masskara and Panaad festival, which happens annually. It’s also an excellent place to sample local cuisine like the Chicken Inasal.

Conclusion

Iloilo City is a perfect destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of the Philippines. From its magnificent mountain ranges to its vibrant festivals and traditions, there is something for everyone in Iloilo City and its neighboring locations. Discover different sides of the city, including its exciting cuisine, natural wonders, and friendly locals, and bring back unforgettable memories.

One of Iloilo City's trademark ''passad'' jeepneys One of Iloilo City's trademark ''passad'' jeepneys Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral St. Anne (Iglesia de Sta. Ana) ceiling painting St. Anne (Iglesia de Sta. Ana) ceiling painting Iloilo River Esplanade Iloilo River Esplanade Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City. Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City. Jaro Belfry during Jaro Fiesta. Jaro Belfry during Jaro Fiesta. The 1990 iron marker placed by the National Historical Institute of the Republic of the Philippines on the main entrance of St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary in Jaro, Iloilo City - the first Institution of Higher Learning in Western Visayas. The 1990 iron marker placed by the National Historical Institute of the Republic of the Philippines on the main entrance of St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary in Jaro, Iloilo City - the first Institution of Higher Learning in Western Visayas.