Travel Guide to Iloilo City
Know Best Places, Dishes, Things & More
Planning to travel to Iloilo City this year? Then you are up for an outstanding experience. This city offers you a blend of island charm, old, rich heritage and mouthwatering cuisine. Situated in the southeastern part of Panay Island, this city serves as an ideal holiday destination for tourists planning to explore a hidden gem. There are a number of attractions dotted around the city, or you can also go island hopping, enjoying the natural splendours. It is called the Filipino City of Love, which is suitable for couples as well, offering them romantic charm, beautiful sites to explore and spending quality time together. The city is also the Philippines' first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
Weather in Iloilo City
Iloilo City has tropical weather year-round and has two distinct seasons, namely, dry season (March to June) and wet season (July to October). You will experience humidity in Iloilo City throughout the year, which indicates high temperatures. Make sure to pack your clothes accordingly, so that you can spend your holiday comfortably. It is best to visit Iloilo City between November and May, with January and February being the peak season, when one can find pleasant weather settings along with celebrations like the Paraw Regatta Festival and the Dinagyang Festival taking place.
Best Places to Visit in Iloilo City
Get ready to explore some of the best places around Iloilo City to spend your holiday.
Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral
Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral, also called the National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles, is a cultural landmark and is the first and only Marian shrine in Visayas and Mindanao to be crowned by a Pope and saint in person. Marvel at the cathedral and its surrounding structures, highlighting the Neoclassical and Baroque styles in them.
Molo Mansion
Enjoy a relaxing time while admiring the Art Deco and Neoclassical architecture of the Molo Mansion, exploring its picturesque grounds, and learning about its history. Take a tour of the mansion, witness its high ceilings, and capture beautiful photographs. You can also visit the coffee shops and restaurants to take a break from your exploration.
Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art
The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) is a destination offering visitors a diverse collection of both contemporary and modern art, of both local and international artists, offering you an amazing artistic experience. You can also spot cultural events being hosted there and explore the space dedicated to the Visayan art scene.
Plaza Libertad
Go to Plaza Libertad, a place of historical importance, where the Philippine Republic flag was raised for the first time to mark the triumph over Spanish forces in 1898. You can also take a walk in the urban park, which offers a serene, tranquil atmosphere to enjoy.
Molo Plaza
Visit Molo Plaza, a place that offers a blend of cultural heritage, rich history and recreational activities. The place's vibrant atmosphere is perfect for an evening walk and dining. You can also find 16 saint statues, all of them women, and delicious local street food nearby.
Best Things to Do in Iloilo City
Some of the best things to do in Iloilo City that are bound to elevate your holiday experience are stated below.
Taste Local Delicacies
Try out the signature local dishes on your holiday at this UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, like La Paz Batchoy, Pancit Molo, Chicken Inasal and many more. You will be able to enjoy the local flavours, ingredients and old culinary techniques.
Go for Cave Exploration
Set out on a thrilling cave exploration where you can spot unique rock formations, enjoy natural experiences and feel the tranquil surroundings. However, it is recommended to take guided tours for your personal safety.
Enjoy Trekking
Go for a trekking journey to the Bato Simbahan Waterfalls that will take about 1.5 hours from Iloilo City. Along the trail, you can find stunning scenery and lush forest, and reaching the waterfall is rewarding, where you can also take a refreshing bath.
Go Shopping at the Local Markets
Visit the local markets of Iloilo City, where you can find freshregionaluce, local delicacies, handicrafts and many others. You can purchase gifts and souvenirs to carry back home as a memory of your wonderful holiday.
Interact with Iloilo's Indigenous Community
Learn about the local traditions, customs and life of the people of the Ati community and purchase local items as souvenirs to support their community.
Read Also: Waterfalls in the Philippines | Wildlife in the Philippines
Best Dishes to Try in Iloilo City
A trip to the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy will be incomplete without tasting their popular dishes, allowing you to enjoy their flavours and culinary techniques.
- La Paz Batchoy
- Pancit Molo
- Chicken Inasal
- Biscocho
- Fresh Seafood
- Puto
- Bingka
- Local Coffee
- Lechon Manok
- KBL (Kadyos, Baboy, Langka)
Travel Tips for Iloilo City
Check out these travel tips for Iloilo City to help you enjoy an amazing vacation.
- Make advanced bookings for your flights and hotels if you are travelling during the peak season.
- Carry comfortable clothes to travel around freely in the warm weather.
- Make sure you carry Philippine Peso to exchange in local shops where credit cards don't work.
- Learn a few phrases of Ilonggo to communicate in a better manner, although English and Tagalog are widely spoken.
- Book your flight tickets from GetAFlight to grab discounts and enjoy a hassle-free journey experience.
Read Also: Planning a Long Stay in the Philippines
Conclusion
Start your preparation for a wonderful holiday experience in Iloilo City, a rare gem filled with rich culture, tradition and flavours. Whether you are travelling solo, with family or as a couple, the City of Love welcomes you warmly. Explore the iconic attractions dotted around the city, indulge in the popular activities to add memories to your journey page and get carried away by the rich tastes and flavours of the cuisines served.
Get your tickets booked today to Iloilo City with us to bag a great deal on your flight ticket to Iloilo City. Book your round-trip flights for a hassle-free travel experience, ensuring you start and end your trip comfortably.
FAQs
Iloilo City is popular for its rich heritage and as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
The best time to visit Iloilo City is between November and May.
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