From cobblestone streets and ancestral houses to vibrant food markets and historical landmarks, Vigan City offers a unique mix of old-world elegance and local flavor that you won’t find anywhere else in the Philippines.
Located in Ilocos Sur Province, Vigan City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders Cities, making it a top destination for travelers seeking history, culture, and culinary adventures. Step back in time with Vigan City tours and experience the charm of one of the most well-preserved Spanish colonial towns in Asia.
- Browse expertly planned Ilocos Region tour packages for a seamless trip
A visit to Vigan City in the Philippines is a journey into the heart of Filipino heritage. It’s where Spanish, Chinese, and local cultures converge, reflected in its architecture, traditions, and cuisine.
Whether you're strolling down Calle Crisologo street in a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) or sampling authentic Vigan longganisa (sausages), the city’s timeless appeal and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination in any Philippine itinerary.
This travel guide will help you plan your Vigan City itinerary by sharing the best time to visit, top tourist spots and activities, must-try dishes, recommended hotels, and essential travel tips for a seamless journey.
Key Takeaways
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Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage City famed for its preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and cultural landmarks, offering a step back in time to the Spanish-era Philippines.
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Calle Crisologo is Vigan City’s most iconic street, lined with ancestral houses, shops, and cafes—ideal for sightseeing, kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) rides, and heritage walks.
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Other top attractions in Vigan City include Bantay Church Bell Tower, Vigan Cathedral, Plaza Salcedo, Syquia Mansion, and the Pagburnayan Jar Factory, where travelers can try traditional pottery making.
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Ilocano cuisine is a highlight of any visit, with must-tries like Vigan longganisa (garlic sausage), bagnet (crispy pork belly), empanada, and sinanglao (beef soup).
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Vigan City is a popular shore excursion destination for cruise passengers making a stop in the Ilocos region. Day tours include heritage walks, food trips, wearing traditional attire, and stops at key landmarks within a few hours.
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The city is accessible by bus or car from Manila, or via Laoag International Airport. Vigan is also featured in Ilocos region multi-day tour packages for easier travel planning.
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The dry season from November to May is the best time to visit, especially during the Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival held in early May, which features cultural shows and street dancing.
Best Time to Go to Vigan City
The best way to experience Vigan City’s historical streets and colonial charm is when the weather is dry and the skies are clear. Since many Vigan City tours involve walking around open-air landmarks like Calle Crisologo street and exploring plazas and churches, it’s important to plan your visit around the weather. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you choose the best time to visit:
Dry Season (November to May)
The dry season, from November to May, is the most ideal time to visit Vigan City. These months offer plenty of sunshine, allowing you to fully enjoy the city’s historical attractions, cultural experiences, and al fresco dining spots.
December to February bring cooler temperatures, making it more comfortable to explore without the intense summer heat. March to May marks the Philippine summer, so expect warmer days and more crowds.
Rainy Season (June to October)
Rainfall becomes more frequent between June and October, which may cause slight disruptions to your itinerary, especially for outdoor walking tours. While the rains are usually short and scattered, it’s best to bring an umbrella or raincoat if you’re visiting during these months. On the upside, fewer tourists visit Vigan City during the rainy season, offering a more peaceful and crowd-free experience.
Off/Low Season (July to September)
This is the quietest travel period in Vigan City due to the heightened chance of rain and the absence of major festivals. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer solitude, lower hotel rates, and a more relaxed pace when visiting attractions. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially for potential typhoons.
Festival Season (January & May)
Vigan City comes alive with vibrant celebrations in January and May.
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Longganisa Festival (January 22): A tribute to the city’s famous garlicky sausage, Vigan longganisa. Expect food stalls, street parades, and festive music.
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Vigan Town Fiesta (starting January 25): A week-long event honoring St. Paul the Apostle, featuring street dancing, cultural shows, and colorful exhibits.
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Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts (first week of May): This celebration of Vigan’s heritage features art exhibits, parades of traditional kalesa (horse-drawn carriages), and the Tres de Mayo festivities, which start with a chapel mass followed by dancing and street events on Calle Crisologo.
Climate and Weather
Like many destinations in the Philippines, Vigan City experiences two main seasons: dry and wet. The dry season runs from November to May, making it the most favorable time to join Vigan City tours and explore its open-air attractions.
The hottest months are April and May, with temperatures peaking under the intense summer sun. The wet season spans June to October, with August being the rainiest month—an important consideration if you’re planning mostly outdoor activities.
Vigan City has an average annual temperature of 26°C. The warmest months can reach around 30.9°C, while the coolest months dip to approximately 21.1°C. While temperatures are generally warm and tropical, the cooler months from December to February offer more comfortable conditions for sightseeing.
Here’s a monthly breakdown of Vigan City’s temperature and rainfall to help you plan better:
Source: NOAA
What to Wear
Exploring Vigan City means plenty of walking, especially along its cobblestone streets and heritage areas like Calle Crisologo. Make sure to wear lightweight, breathable clothing that can keep you cool during warm and sunny days. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves for sun protection, and a reusable water bottle is great to stay hydrated throughout the day.
For footwear, opt for comfortable walking shoes or sandals with good support to handle uneven paths. If your trip falls between December and February, consider packing a light jacket or sweater, as evenings can get cooler during this time of year.
How to Go to Vigan City
Reaching Vigan City, a heritage gem in Ilocos Sur Province, is easier than ever thanks to multiple transport options. Whether you're traveling from Manila City or other parts of Luzon region, you can choose between land travel or flights to Laoag Airport, the nearest to Vigan City.
Travel time from Manila City to Vigan by land typically takes 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and chosen transportation.
For a stress-free journey, it's best to book vacation packages that include roundtrip transfers and even accommodation, so you can skip the hassle of planning every leg of your trip.
By Flights
The fastest way to reach Vigan is by taking a flight to Laoag Airport, located about 80 KM north of the city. From there, you can book a shared or private transfer to Vigan City from Laoag, with travel time of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. This option is ideal for travelers coming from Visayas or Mindanao island regions, as you can take a flight to Manila City first, connect to Laoag, and reach Vigan the same day.
For convenience, it’s best to check with tour providers like Guide to the Philippines for customizable Ilocos tour packages that may include flights, hotel stays, and transfers.
By Bus
Traveling by bus is the most affordable option to get to Vigan City from Manila, and several bus companies offer daily routes.
For budget-conscious travelers, an overnight bus ride is a smart way to save on both travel time and accommodation. You’ll arrive early in the morning, ready to start your Vigan City tour right away.
From other points in Luzon:
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Clark International Airport, Pampanga Province: Take a shuttle or taxi to Dau Bus Terminal, then ride a bus to Vigan City (7 to 9 hours).
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Baguio City: Ride a bus to Laoag and get off in Vigan (about 5 hours).
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Abra or Tuguegarao Province: Take a GMW or Florida Liner bus bound for Laoag that stops in Vigan City.
By Private Car or Van
For more flexibility, you can rent a private car or van and enjoy a road trip through scenic Luzon region highways like NLEX, SCTEX, and TPLEX. This is a great choice for families or groups who want to travel at their own pace.
You can also hire private van transfers or guided tours from Manila City or nearby provinces for a more convenient and direct route.
How to Get Around Vigan City
Getting around Vigan City is part of the charm of exploring this heritage destination in Ilocos Sur Province. The main attractions, such as Calle Crisologo, Vigan Cathedral, and the Plaza Salcedo dancing fountain, are easily walkable.
For a more enriching experience, consider joining Vigan City tours that include transportation and a guide to help you make the most of your visit and explore additional attractions.
For a worry-free trip, especially if you're coming from Manila City or other provinces in Luzon region, book Ilocos tour packages that include roundtrip transfers, accommodations, and guided tours of Vigan City.
For a stress-free getaway, you can book a 3-day Ilocos Sur tour package, which combines stays at Vitallis Villas Resort, daily meals, and tours in Vigan City, all with transfers included.
Tourist Van or Rent a Private Car
For ultimate convenience, you can book guided Vigan City or Ilocos Province tours with transfers included, which allow you to enjoy a smooth sightseeing experience without navigating transportation logistics. These are especially helpful if you're traveling with kids or seniors and don't want to waste time looking for parking spots.
Renting a private car or van is also a great way to explore not only Vigan City but also nearby towns in Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte Provinces. This option is perfect for families or groups of travelers. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride.
Cruise Shore Excursions
If you're arriving via cruise ship, you can book shore excursions in Vigan City with roundtrip port transfers. These guided day tours are quick, fun, and can fit cruise schedules. You can also request custom shore excursions to Vigan City with travel operators like Guide to the Philippines for a personalized itinerary along with comfortable transport that ensures you return to your ship on time.
Kalesa (Horse-Drawn Carriage)
A signature experience in Vigan City is riding a kalesa, a traditional horse-drawn carriage. These are the only public transport allowed on Calle Crisologo street, and they offer a slow-paced, nostalgic way to explore the city’s Spanish-era streets. Kalesas can also be rented per hour to take you to nearby heritage sites within the city.
Tricycle
Tricycles are ideal for short to mid-range trips around Vigan City. They’re a budget-friendly, open-air way to get from one attraction to another. You can also hire a tricycle for a half-day or full-day tour if you prefer a more rugged and local transportation experience.
Where to Stay in Vigan City
Photo from Hotel Luna
Being a well-known destination, there are plenty of options for hotels in Vigan City for tourists who want to stay for a night or longer. However, it understandably gets fully booked quickly during peak seasons, especially for the hotels located in the City Center or near Calle Crisologo street.
Types of Accommodations
Vigan City offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler:
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Hotels – Mostly near Calle Crisologo street, these mid- to high-end stays offer amenities like Wi-Fi, hot showers, and on-site dining—perfect for comfort and convenience.
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Heritage Houses – Some hotels and inns are restored Spanish colonial homes, letting you experience Vigan City’s old-world charm with modern comforts.
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Hostels/Inns – Budget-friendly and often located outside the city center, these offer basic amenities and easy access via local transport.
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Vacation Rentals – Ideal for families or groups, these homes often have full kitchens. Those near the center may cost more but offer prime access to attractions.
Neighborhoods and Areas
When booking a hotel in Vigan City, you only have two areas to choose from: the City Center and the neighboring barangays. It's critical to learn where your hotel is located since it will affect how you get around Vigan City. Here is more information on where the accommodations in Vigan City are located.
City Center (Poblacion)
The premier tourist and hotel spot in Vigan City is in the City Center (Poblacion) where you can find the streets that surround Calle Crisologo.
Most of the hotels located here are in the mid- to luxury-range since you're paying for the best location. Booking accommodation here means you only need to walk to go to the top tourist attractions and restaurants in Vigan City.
Neighboring Barangays
Vigan City has 39 barrios and barangays, which also cover the City Center (Poblacion). The other hotels outside of the City Center are cheaper.
However, you will need to travel by tricycle or private car/van to go to the tourist spots. If you don't mind the extra commute, then you can book a hotel in the neighboring barangays instead.
Accommodation Highlights in Vigan City
Now that you know the type of accommodations and the best places to book your hotel, let us help you choose where to stay based on your travel budget.
Luxury Accommodations
These accommodations are close to the City Center and offer the best amenities and services in Vigan, thus the higher price point. If you’re highly meticulous in your choice of accommodation, these will not let you down.
Hotel Luna
Hotel Luna has been touted as the best in Vigan City thanks to its variety of quality rooms, amenities, and services. Their most affordable room can accommodate two adults with its queen-sized bed and a separate tub and shower.
It also comes with Wi-Fi and cable TV. You can even take a dip in their outdoor pool if you feel like taking a break from walking around Vigan. You can book a convenient 3-day Vigan City package with a stay at Hotel Luna and guided tour here.
Vitalis Villas Resort
Located just a scenic drive from Vigan, Vitalis Villas is a Santorini-inspired luxury resort perched above the coast of Santiago town. It’s a great option for travelers who want a relaxing escape while still enjoying access to heritage spots in Ilocos Sur Province.
Mid-range Accommodations
If you're not keen on walking too far from the main attractions, you can choose to book a hotel or inn located near or within the Vigan City Center. These accommodations are priced in the middle of the budget to luxury due to their convenient location.
Villa Angela Heritage House
Step into the past with a stay at Villa Angela Heritage House, one of Vigan City’s most iconic ancestral homes. Built in 1870, this charming accommodation showcases authentic Spanish colonial architecture and antique furnishings, giving guests a glimpse of Ilocos Sur Province’s rich cultural heritage.
More than just a place to sleep, Villa Angela offers immersive cultural experiences. Dress in traditional Filipino attire and indulge in a 5-course Ilocano meal for a truly memorable feast of heritage and flavor. You can also capture timeless memories with a 3-hour photoshoot in this picturesque home.
Villa Angela is ideal for travelers seeking both accommodation and a rich cultural connection with Vigan City.
Hotel Salcedo De Vigan
Hotel Salcedo De Vigan's rooms are very spacious. The hotel has a restaurant known for its superb local and international cuisine menu. You can also make an accessibility request like a bathroom in advance if you or your companion has special needs.
Ciudad Fernandina Hotel
At Ciudad Fernandina Hotel, you have everything you need after a long day of traveling. All rooms come with cable television, air-conditioning, electronic door lock, and hot and cold shower. It even has a restaurant and bar for your unwinding needs.
Gordion Hotel
Another short walk away from Calle Crisologo street is Gordion Hotel. Its interiors also adapt the Spanish colonial style of the city with four-post beds and antique decors. Guests can enjoy a filling breakfast of either Filipino or Continental.
Budget Accommodations
For those who are keeping an eye on their expenses, Vigan City is filled with lodges and inns. These offer inexpensive rooms but ideal places to rest their weary bodies after a long day of exploring. These are highly recommended not just for the affordable price but because of their convenient location.
Escolta’s Homey Lodge
Escolta’s Homey Lodge is a basic accommodation without many amenities (though they have free Wi-Fi!). It’s located right in the heart of Calle Crisologo street, so you pretty much have everything you need.
Metro Vigan Inn
Metro Vigan Inn is a pet-friendly budget hotel that has two locations, with the closest one to the City Center just across Plaza Salcedo. All rooms come with air-conditioning and are inclusive of breakfast. There's also full and secured parking space for those who would be driving to Vigan.
The rooms at Cordillera Inn are clean and straightforward. They offer both air-conditioned and fan-cooled rooms. A night's stay comes with a breakfast of Vigan longganisa (sausage), tapa (cured beef), or daing (dried fish).
What to See and Do in Vigan City
Vigan City in Ilocos Sur Province is one of the best-preserved colonial towns in Asia, known for its Spanish-era streetscapes, cultural traditions, and heritage houses. Here are the top things to do and places to visit in Vigan City to fully experience its rich history:
Take a Stroll at Calle Crisologo Street
Calle Crisologo is the heart of Vigan City’s charm—a cobblestone street lined with centuries-old heritage houses featuring red-tiled roofs, capiz windows, and antique wooden doors. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s best explored on foot or via a horse-drawn carriage, locally called a kalesa.
- Discover the best Calle Crisologo tours for your Vigan City trip
You can browse souvenir shops, dine in local cafés, and stay until evening when the street glows with soft lamp lighting and alfresco dining setups.
For a more in-depth experience, consider adding a Private Tour of Vigan City with Carriage Ride & Transfers, which includes guided visits to top landmarks and a traditional kalesa ride—perfect for travelers wanting a deeper look into Vigan City’s past.
If you're arriving by cruise and docking at Currimao Port, you can book the Private Shore Excursion to Vigan City’s Top Attractions from Currimao Port—one of the best Ilocos Province tours for cruise passengers looking for a hassle-free and immersive heritage experience.
Wear Traditional Attire
For a more immersive experience, dress in a traditional filipiniana or barong and walk around like a true ilustrado of the past! You can rent authentic Filipino costumes at the Villa Angela Heritage House and capture timeless photos in one of the city’s most iconic ancestral homes. This is also one of the best tours for cruise passengers in Currimao Port.
Watch the Dancing Fountain Show at Plaza Salcedo
Head to the Plaza Salcedo nearby Calle Crisologo street before 7:00 P.M. to enjoy a nightly 30-minute water and light show. The synchronized fountain display set to music is a free spectacle and a local favorite. There’s an additional show at 8:30 P.M. on weekends.
Visit the Vigan Cathedral
Located at the city’s main square, the Vigan Cathedral (Metropolitan Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul) was built in the 17th century and showcases Earthquake Baroque architecture. It has withstood natural disasters and remains a symbol of the city’s strong Catholic roots.
See the Bantay Bell Tower
Just a few minutes from the city center, this 16th-century watchtower offers sweeping views of the city and neighboring towns. It once served as a lookout post against pirates, hence the name "Bantay," meaning "to guard."
Try Pottery and Weaving at Pagburnayan
Experience traditional crafts at Pagburnayan, where you can shape clay pots (burnay) by hand or simply observe master potters at work. These jars were historically used to ferment fish sauce and sugarcane wine.
Nearby, discover the art of Abel Iloco weaving, a centuries-old technique for making handwoven fabrics. Visit Rowilda’s Weaving Factory or Cristy’s Loom Weaving in Brgy. Camanggaan to watch local artisans in action.
Explore Vigan City’s Museums
Vigan City is home to several small yet fascinating museums that give insight into the region’s political, cultural, and religious past. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss:
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Crisologo Museum – Dedicated to Congressman Floro S. Crisologo, known for championing social reforms.
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Syquia Mansion – The ancestral home of President Elpidio Quirino’s wife, filled with historical memorabilia.
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Father Burgos Museum – Honors one of the martyred priests and serves as a satellite of the National Museum.
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Museo Nueva Segovia – Once the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia and a former base of Gen. Aguinaldo.
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Museo San Pablo – Showcases old photos of 19th-century Vigan and religious artifacts.
Visit Animals at Baluarte Zoo
Located just outside the city, Baluarte Zoo is home to both native and exotic animals including camels, ostriches, deer, tigers, and birds. There’s also a butterfly sanctuary. Visit early in the morning for a chance to see the animals being fed or roaming in the open grounds.
What to Eat and Drink in Vigan City
No visit to this heritage city is complete without indulging in its flavorful local dishes. Vigan City is a food lover’s paradise, especially for those eager to try authentic Ilokano cuisine—known for its bold flavors and use of fermented fish paste (bagoong), fresh vegetables, and deep-fried specialties.
Here are must-try Vigan City delicacies to include in your Ilocos Province food trip:
Ilocos Empanada
Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism
A crispy, deep-fried rice flour pastry stuffed with green papaya, mung bean sprouts, carrots, egg, and the iconic Vigan longganisa (native pork sausage). Best enjoyed with local vinegar. Try it at the popular Irene’s Empanada stall in Plaza Burgos or Calle Crisologo street.
Bagnet (Crispy Pork Belly)
Thick cuts of pork belly fried to a golden crisp in their own fat. This crunchy delicacy is often dipped in Sukang Iloko, the region’s sugarcane vinegar.
Pinakbet (Vegetable Stew)
Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism
A savory dish made with eggplant, bitter gourd, okra, squash, and tomatoes, sautéed with bagoong (fermented fish paste). It’s often topped with crispy bagnet for an added crunch.
Sinanglao (Beef Innards Soup)
A hearty soup made with beef or carabao innards, flavored with vinegar and kamias (sour fruit). It’s a go-to comfort food for locals, especially when paired with rice.
Okoy (Shrimp Fritter)
A deep-fried snack made with tiny shrimp and batter, served crispy and often dipped in vinegar. Perfect as a merienda (afternoon snack).
Tinubong (Sweet Sticky Rice in Bamboo)
Sticky rice mixed with coconut milk and strips of young coconut, steamed inside bamboo tubes. This sweet delicacy is a favorite souvenir from Vigan.
Chichacorn (Crunchy Fried Corn)
A puffed and crunchy version of cornick (fried corn kernels). It’s an addicting snack and makes for a great pasalubong (take-home treat).
Sukang Iloko (Ilocos Vinegar)
Made from fermented sugarcane and spiced with chili and native leaves, this flavorful vinegar is a staple dip for most Ilokano dishes.
Royal Bibingka (Chewy Rice Cake)
This chewy version of the traditional Filipino rice cake is topped with cheese and margarine. It has a soft, moist texture similar to cassava cake and is a popular dessert from Vigan City.
Recommended Restaurants and Bars
Check out these top restaurants while exploring the historic cobbled streets of Vigan. Most of these are located in or near Calle Crisologo. The majority offer Filipino or Ilokano cuisine with some international foods.
1995 Studio Café
A trendy café near Calle Crisologo street, 1995 Studio Café serves coffee, rice meals, pasta, and snacks in an aesthetic space filled with vintage and contemporary art.
Must-try: Their Vigan longganisa rice meals, coffee-based drinks, and Ilokano-flavored pastries.
Café Leona
An iconic Vigan City restaurant named after poet Leona Florentino. Located right along Calle Crisologo street, it serves a mix of Ilokano, Filipino, Japanese, Chinese, and Italian cuisine.
Must-try: Their unique pinakbet pizza blends local and international flavors.
Hidden Garden Lilong and Lilang Restaurant
Tucked inside a lush garden setting, this restaurant offers a rustic dining experience with Ilokano classics.
Must-try: Empanada, warek-warek (pork innards in mayonnaise), bagnet (crispy pork belly), pinakbet, and poqui-poqui (roasted eggplant sautéed with eggs).
Café Uno & Uno Grille
Found at Grandpa’s Inn, Café Uno has a cozy indoor setup, while Uno Grille features garden dining.
Must-try: Vigan longganisa, bagnet, dinengdeng (vegetable stew with fish broth), and poqui-poqui. For adventurous eaters: abúos (mountain ants) and tokak (frog).
Casa Vicente Restaurant
Located inside Hotel Luna, Casa Vicente is a refined dining spot that pairs Vigan’s historic ambiance with gourmet Ilokano dishes.
Must-try: Elevated versions of bagnet, poqui-poqui, and their signature desserts.
For a more detailed guide, check out this article on the best restaurants in Vigan City to discover where to eat during your stay.
Practical Information and Tips
Before exploring Vigan City, it’s best to know a few local essentials to make your trip smooth and budget-friendly. From currency tips to souvenir shopping spots, here’s what to keep in mind:
Currency
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP), and cash is still the most widely accepted payment method in Vigan City, especially at local eateries, markets, and small shops. Major hotels and restaurants do accept credit cards, and ATMs are available in the city center.
For more travel money tips, check out this Philippine Peso and Money Exchange Guide.
Language
Ilokano is the main language spoken, followed by Filipino. Many locals—especially in tourist areas—can understand and speak basic English, so communication won’t be an issue.
Where to Shop
Calle Crisologo street is a popular spot for souvenir shopping, offering woven crafts, antiques, woodwork, jewelry, and tasty local snacks like Vigan longganisa and bagnet.
For more budget-friendly finds, visit the Vigan Public Market, where you can buy the same local delicacies, crafts, and pasalubong (souvenirs) at lower prices. It’s also a great place to try authentic Ilokano street food and experience local culture.
Sample Itinerary in Vigan City
Make the most of your cultural escape to Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Province with this sample itinerary that includes heritage tours, local cuisine, and hands-on experiences:
Day 1: Arrival
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6:00 AM – Arrival in Vigan City
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6:30 AM – Breakfast
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8:00 AM – Free time: explore Calle Crisologo on foot, visit souvenir shops, or enjoy early morning photo ops
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10:30 AM – Try Ilocos Empanada and snacks at Plaza Burgos
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11:30 AM – Lunch
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2:00 PM – Hotel check-in
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3:00 PM – Visit museums in Vigan City or relax at your hotel
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5:00 PM – Dinner
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7:30 PM – Watch the Dancing Fountain Show at Plaza Salcedo
Day 2: Full-Day Heritage Tour of Vigan City
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7:00 AM – Breakfast
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8:00-8:30 AM – Start of Vigan City tour
Tour highlights may include:
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Bantay Bell Tower and St. Augustine Church
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Hands-on pottery at Pagburnayan
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Traditional weaving demo at Abel Iloco
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Visits to Museo Nueva Segovia, Crisologo Museum, and Vigan Cathedral
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A relaxing kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) ride around Calle Crisologo
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12:00 PM – Lunch at a local restaurant
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4:30 PM – End of guided tour
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6:00 PM – Dinner
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8:00 PM – Optional night walk or relax at hotel
Day 3: Shopping + Departure
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7:00 AM – Breakfast at hotel
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8:00 AM – Souvenir shopping at Calle Crisologo or Vigan Public Market
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10:00 AM – Pack up and check out
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11:00 AM – Lunch
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12:30 PM – Depart for Manila City or next destination
Frequently Asked Questions about Vigan City
What is Vigan City known for?
Vigan City is famous for its colonial-era architecture and rich cultural heritage. It’s one of the few places in Asia with a well-preserved Spanish-era town and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Where is Vigan City located?
The city of Vigan is located in Ilocos Sur Province, in the northern part of Luzon Island in the Philippines. It’s a coastal city facing the South China Sea and is part of the Ilocos Region.
How do I get to Vigan City?
You can get to Vigan by land via bus from Manila City (about 8–10 hours), or by flying to Laoag International Airport and taking a 2-hour land transfer. Cruise ships also dock at Salomague or Currimao Port, about 1 hour from Vigan City, for day tours and shore excursions.
Are there shore excursions available for cruise passengers?
Yes, cruise passengers arriving at Salomague or Currimao Port can join Vigan City shore excursions. These guided day trips typically include a walking tour along Calle Crisologo, wearing traditional outfit, visits to Bantay Bell Tower and heritage museums, pottery workshops, and a taste of authentic Ilocano dishes.
What are the top attractions in Vigan City?
Must-see attractions include Calle Crisologo, Syquia Mansion Museum, Plaza Salcedo, Vigan Cathedral, Bantay Church Bell Tower, and the Pagburnayan Jar Factory. Each spot offers insight into Vigan’s colonial past and artistic traditions.
When is the best time to visit Vigan City?
Visit during the dry season, from November to May, for pleasant weather. Early May is especially vibrant due to the Viva Vigan Festival, which showcases local art, food, and traditional dance.
What food should I try in Vigan?
Don’t miss Vigan longganisa, bagnet, Ilocos empanada, and sinanglao. These local specialties can be found at street stalls, markets, and restaurants around the city.
Can I join a Vigan City tour from a cruise ship?
Yes, there are shore excursion tours designed for cruise passengers that include round-trip transfers from Salomague or Currimao Port to Vigan City, a guided itinerary, and cultural experiences.
How long should I stay in Vigan City?
A 2-day stay is ideal for most travelers, but even a 1-day trip—especially via cruise shore excursion—offers enough time to see Vigan’s highlights and enjoy its cuisine and culture.
Are there Vigan City tour packages available?
Yes, you can book Vigan City tours as standalone day trips or as part of Ilocos region vacation packages that cover nearby destinations like Laoag City and Pagudpud town. These packages often include hotel stays, transfers, and guided tours.
Travel Back in Time in Vigan City
Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism
Vigan City preserves its Spanish colonial heritage not just as a reminder of the past, but as inspiration for the future. As you stroll along its cobblestone streets, visit ancestral homes, and savor local cuisine, you'll discover why this historic city continues to captivate travelers from around the world.
Since Vigan City is a popular destination year-round, it’s best to plan your trip ahead. Use this guide to craft a meaningful journey—and make the most of your visit by booking Vigan City and Ilocos Province tours and activities that let you experience the charm of the old Philippines. Vigan City is ready to welcome you with stories, sights, and flavors that bridge the past and the present.
