Iloilo City
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Iloilo City
Located on the southeastern tip of Panay Island in the Philippines, Iloilo City is a destination that offers you the beauty of the sea, the deliciousness of seafood, and a city rich in history and living culture. Often known as the "City of Love", the hospitality of the locals makes tourists feel at home.
From the colonial architecture that decorates its streets to the appetizing local delicacies, Iloilo City is a treasure for those seeking an authentic and immersive Filipino experience. It is home to the Miag-ao church, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is also the festive annual Dinagyang Festival. When you visit, don't forget to visit Calle Real, which consists of a series of historic houses, and sample the sweet mangoes of Guimaras Island.
There is also Garin Farm Pilgrimage Site, near Iloilo City, which is a unique blend of spirituality and agriculture. Dominated by the Divine Mercy Cross, the site offers breathtaking views and peaceful pilgrimage paths with life-size Bible statues. Beyond its religious significance, Garin Farm showcases the farm life in the Iloilo area.
Travel Tips for Iloilo City
What you need to know before traveling here
Getting Around Iloilo City
A guide to Iloilo City's local transportation
Traveling in Iloilo City is made easier by using a jeepney, or what locals call a passad. These unique vehicles are distinctively decorated and travel through the city following a specific route.
They are easily accessible and the main public transportation in Iloilo. For around PHP13 to PHP15 a ride, you can reach attractions such as Jaro Cathedral and Iloilo Business Park.
Practical Tips for Iloilo City
Things to prepare and best way to visit
Iloilo is known for its rich cultural heritage, as well as colonial-era architecture inspired by the Spanish. It’s also famous for its natural treasures and wide blue sea.
For nature lovers, you can visit the beach that marks the border between the southern city of Iloilo and the ocean. You can also travel to visit the small islands of Islas de Gigantes. Although this is a 3-hour drive by land and a 1-hour boat ride away, Islas de Gigantes has beautiful spots surrounded by water, such as Cabugao Gamay. In January, Iloilo hosts the Dinagyang Festival, a vibrant celebration that attracts visitors from all over the world.
As the oldest city in the Philippines, Iloilo still retains its historical and cultural heritage, proven by the many old colonial buildings in the city center. One of the most famous is the Calle Real area. Not to be missed is the heritage church with its unique classical architectural style. These Spanish colonial churches are hundreds of years old and are spread across different parts of the city. Churches that should be on your list are Miagao Church, Molo Church, Jaro Cathedral, Tigbauan Church, and Guimbal Church.
La Paz Batchoy, an iconic Iloilo dish, is a signature noodle soup that tantalizes the taste buds. Served with pork, crispy pork skin, and noodles, this dish gives a delicious savory touch. Iloilo is also famous for its delicious seafood, such as fresh oysters and grilled squid.
However, don't miss out on the Ratu Siapao, meatballs in warm bread, which you can easily find in every food stall in Iloilo. This rich combination of flavors makes for an unforgettable culinary experience in the city.
The city proudly hosts the Dinagyang Festival, which is recognized as the oldest festival in the Philippines. This lively celebration was first held in 1968 when it was first organized to honor Santo Nino as well as to promote Iloilo's rich cultural heritage.
The Dinagyang Festival has evolved into one of the most exciting and internationally recognized events, attracting visitors with dynamic street performances, colorful costumes, and rhythmic drumming. Visitors to Iloilo can watch the city come alive during this lively event, adding cultural richness to their travel experience.
This festival is held annually in January, so if you want to see this event, be sure to plan your visit during this time.
Iloilo has several famous islands, each offering a unique and captivating experience. Concepcion, known for its 16 beautiful islands, including Bulubadiangan, Pan de Azucar, Agho, Malangabang, and Baliguian, stands out with its attractive white sandy beaches and the presence of the majestic Mount Manaphag on Pan de Azucar Island.
Ajuy, which is easily accessible from Iloilo City, has Marbuena Island with its beautiful resorts and other gems like Nasidman and Calabazas. Gigantes Sur, along with Gigantes Norte, plays host to major attractions such as Tangke Lagoon, Pawikan Cave, Antonia Beach, Bantigue sandbar, and the popular Cabugao Gamay Island. Explore the beauty and charm of these islands in Iloilo.
Traveling to Iloilo from Manila is convenient. Visitors can opt for a direct flight to Iloilo International Airport, ensuring a quick and comfortable journey. The journey takes 1 hour from Manila and 30 minutes from Cebu. Alternatively, buses and ferries provide scenic overland and sea routes for those who prefer a more leisurely travel experience. If you would like to go by ferries, use the roll-on-roll-off (RoRo) routes coming from major cities in the Philippines.
However, for international visitors who prefer to visit Iloilo directly, there are direct flights from Hong Kong and Singapore to Iloilo International Airport.
Travel Tips for Iloilo City
More Destination Near Iloilo City
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