We welcome you to a trip through history!
As an expert in traveling throughout the Philippines, I have discovered that even though many locations have great views, there’s only a few places that inspire you. One of those places is Vigan philippines. It is a beautiful town that has a vintage feel and a relaxing atmosphere created by listening to the sound of horses going down the cobblestone streets. If you are looking for the best vigan tourist spots, you have come to the right place.As we begin this tour of Vigan city philippines, I would like to share with you one of my favourite quotes about the city:
“Vigan will take you beyond your map and time; you will feel as if you are coming back home”.
I hope you have a great time exploring Vigan! Here’s my list of 10 must-see sites and Vigan attractions in this amazing Historical City of the North!
1. Calle Crisologo: The Street Where Time Stood Still.
The street, Calle Crisologo, signifies an entrance into the heart of Vigan Philippines and the place filled with cultural richness and history. This cobblestone street stretches across five blocks in length and is lined with 18th Century Ancestral Houses with red-tiled roofs and walls made of thick lime plaster This is one of the most iconic Vigan attractions you will ever see.
Many tourists come to Calle Crisologo during the heat of the day, however, I recommend visiting Calle Crisologio during the “Golden Hour”, At this time, the vintage style yellow lamps will start to illuminate the street, highlighting the unique vigan city architecture. Also, it should be noted that modern cars are prohibited from Calle Crisologo and kalesas (horse-drawn carriages) are the only mode of transportation allowed.
2. Bantay Bell Tower: The Guardian on the Hill.
Bantay Belltower is a large bell tower located on top of a hill on the outskirts of the municipality of Bantay, which is adjacent to Vigan City Philippines. The Tower has acted as a lookout tower to warn of incoming invading forces, such as piracy. It became a symbol of hope throughout World War II for the residents of Vigan.Once you enter the Tower, continue climbing to the third floor, where you will find the bell. While you are there, look closely for evidence of the Tower’s ability to withstand such a difficult period in history, such as bullet holes from World War II. When you reach the summit of the Tower, you can see the mountains of Ilocos land, which are along the northwestern coast of the Philippines. This historic site is frequently listed as one of the essential vigan tourist spots to visit.
3. Syquia Mansion: A Look at What Life was Like for Presidents.
Vigan has many museums but there are few homes that stand out like Syquia Mansion. It was the home of Doña Alicia Quirino who is the wife of the 6th President of the Philippines, Elpidio Quirino. Not only is this an interesting home, it is a “Bahay na Bato” (stone house) masterpiece and a prime example of Vigan city architecture.Not only is this an interesting home, it is a “Bahay na Bato” (stone house) masterpiece of vigan city architecture.
The ventanillas or small windows located below the main windows were placed there to allow a breeze to flow up from the floor to the ceiling through these windows. The mansion includes large oil paintings and Chinese porcelain objects that tell about the “Mestizo” elite, who represent a mixture of Chinese, Filipino, and Spanish blood lines; a very interesting combination of cultures and a highlight among vigan tourist spots.
4. Pagburnayan: The Traditional Pottery of the Ancients.
The area of Pagburnayan has a very strong smell of wet earth. This is where the “Burnay,” or pots made of earth, were developed using methods that immigrants from China introduced to the area over a thousand years ago. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Vigan to see living history, this is it.
What makes the Burnay unique: The Burnay are unique because they are not only used for decorating the house; many local people believe that using the clay to ferment their basi and bagoong gives them a special taste because of the unique characteristics of the clay. If you are wondering is Vigan worth visiting, the chance to try traditional pottery is a reason enough. I recommend that you get in touch with your creative side by attempting to create on a foot-powered wheel. The process of creating using this type of wheel is very meditative and grounding and will allow you to reconnect with nature and yourself.
Planning your journey to this historical gem is easier than ever. When booking your adventure to Northern Luzon, World Pinoy Flights offers the best connections to ensure your travel experience is as seamless and timeless as the city of Vigan itself.
5. Plaza Salcedo and Dancing Fountain Show.
The Plaza Salcedo was named after Spanish Conquistador Juan De Salcedo, when it remains a tranquil park during the day, but turns into an extraordinary experience during the night. Watching the display is one of the top activities in Vigan for families.
Experience: Every day at 7:30 PM, the “Dancing Fountain” starts. The Fountain is a highly sophisticated display of light, water and music comparable to many of the largest cities in the world, and is a perfect location to relax next to local people while enjoying the pleasant breeze of the evening, and watching the water dance along to the beat of Filipino pop and classic music. Don’t miss this when checking out vigan tourist spots.
6. St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral: An Earthquake Baroque Wonder.
St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, which is the home to the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia, is an excellent example of “Earthquake Baroque.” Because of the regular earthquakes in the area, the Cathedral has thick, sturdy buttresses, which is indicative of the vigan city architecture.
Skilled professionals believe that there is a strong possibility of finding more intricate designs on the exterior of the cathedral that display some type of Chinese influence. A carving of a “Fu” dog is located at the entrance of the Cathedral of Vigan and represents an example of one of the many animals representing the various cultures that contributed to the development of this city.
While the outside is very hot, the inside of the church is a place to go when you need a break from the heat as it remains cool and has a very peaceful atmosphere. It is truly a spiritual gem among vigan tourist spots.
7. Hidden Garden: A Place To Be In A Place – Summary.
Located just outside the main part of town, the Hidden Garden consists mainly of tropical plants like bonsai trees and orchids, but you will also find some other very unusual ferns. Originally meant to serve as a private space for one person’s enjoyment, the Hidden Garden is now available to help the many travellers who come there feel refreshed. When people ask, “is vigan worth visiting?”, it is unique spots like this that provide the answer.
A good meal can be enjoyed at the on-site restaurant. The top recommendation is the Bagnet Salad. Crispy pork belly cut into small chunks forms one of the main ingredients of this salad, along with fresh vegetables and a local vinaigrette dressing. The phrase “from garden to table” describes the preparation method of this meal, and it will leave you with a warm, satisfied feeling. It is a refreshing departure from the more urban vigan tourist spots.
8. Father Burgos Museum: The Heart of the Fight.
The original home of Father Jose Burgos, a Filipino priest who helped start the Revolution against Spain, is now a museum managed by the National Museum of the Philippines.
In addition to the historical artefacts, the museum has 14 oil paintings created by Esteban Villanueva that tell the story of the Basi Revolt, the most significant event of Spain’s colonial rule in the Philippines, and what it was like to live in vigan city philippines during this time. These paintings show a very different view of Vigan than the pretty views of the town found on many postcards. Historians consider this one of the most educational vigan tourist spots.
9. Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo: A Safari on the Hill.
For something different, check out Baluarte. This huge property, owned by the famous Singson family, is like a mini wild animal park where you can see animals such as tigers, ostriches, and camels. This destination is often featured in any comprehensive Vigan sightseeing guide.
The animals might be the highlight of the place, but one of the most interesting parts is the “Safari gallery.” This has lots of stuffed animals that were collected from all over the world during the owner’s travels. It may seem a little weird, but it shows what life was like for the owner when he was traveling and having fun. And from this hilltop, you have a great view of the South China Sea. This is one of the most family-friendly vigan tourist spots.
10. The Empanada, and Plaza Burgos.
While Calle Crisologo is a beautiful place to visit and see. Plaza Burgos is a great place to eat. It has lots of vendors and stalls in the outside selling the Vigan’s famous empanadas, making it one of the most popular things to do in Vigan.
The Secret of Making the Best Empanada: I am your travel expert and I’ll share my secret with you: go to the stall with the longest line of locals. A real Vigan empanada is made with thin orange rice flour crust that is stuffed with Vigan longganisa (sausage), egg and grated papaya. The best way to eat it is with your hands while sitting on a bench in a park and pouring local Sukang Iloko (dark vinegar with garlic and chilli) on it!
A Final Word from Your Travel Guide.
Vigan is not just a place to see. It’s also a place you need to experience. If you are still asking, “is vigan worth visiting?”, just look at the preserved heritage around you. The town intentionally tells tourists to slow down when walking instead of running through the streets. Whether you are coming for a weekend or planning extended vigan holidays, When you depart from Vigan, you will be taking with you not just memories but the historic value of the city as well. Have a safe journey and enjoy your stay in this Old City!
Sincerely,
Your Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions.
1. What month is the best time to visit Vigan?
November to February is the optimal period to visit Vigan as this is when the climate is at its coolest and most pleasant for sightseeing.
2. How can I get from Manila to Vigan, Philippines?
There are two main options to get from Manila to Vigan: you can either take an express bus or fly from Manila to Laoag City and travel by either bus or taxi for a 2-hour trip to Vigan.
3. Is it possible to walk in Vigan?
Absolutely! The Heritage District is small enough that all major sites can be reached either by our feet or by taking a short horse-drawn carriage (kalesa).
4. What is the primary currency used in Vigan?
The currency used in Vigan is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Although credit or debit cards are accepted at many hotels, most local shops and market vendors will only accept payment in cash.
5. Are there any dress codes for churches in Vigan?
Yes. Visitors should dress modestly by covering their shoulders and knees when visiting St. Paul’s Cathedral Church
