Vigan - Perfect Blend Of Spanish And Philippines Cultures

Vigan

Vigan's maintained Spanish-inspired architecture gives visitors the impression that they are traveling back in time to the Hispanic era of ages past. The Calle Crisologo, a street lined with ancestral homes dating to the Spanish colonization of the Philippines in the 16th century, is the area's most famous feature.

Best time to visit: Dec-To-Feb
Things to do: Discover Calle Crisologo, Visit the Pagburnayan Jar Factory, Ride a Zipline, Dive deep in Mindoro Beach

HOW TO REACH VIGAN

  • Flight - If you're short on time but prepared to spend extra money, flying to Vigan is a quick fix. Although there are no direct flights, it is possible to fly from Manila to Laoag Airport and then take a bus to Vigan. The journey will take about three hours in total. Fly to Manila first, then Vigan, if you are travelling from the Visayas or Mindanao. In the past, Vigan had a regional airport called Mindoro Airport that served the entire province of Ilocos Sur and was frequented by InterIsland Airline and Sea Air. However, due to limited traffic, operations had to be suspended; however, the airport continues to accept chartered flights.

HOW TO GET AROUND

  • Bus - The cheapest mode of transportation to Vigan is by bus. Although there are several bus routes to choose from, the costs are not drastically different. With Wi-Fi, TV, and restrooms included, more upscale rides from companies like Partas Bus in Cubao and Farias Transit in Pasay will likely be on a higher rung.
  • Kalesa - These traditional horse-drawn carriages, which are common in the Calle Crisologo neighborhood, are ideal for local transportation and offer a distinctive cultural experience. In the historic Calle Crisologo, only certain modes of public transit are permitted.
  • Tricycle - You can ride a tricycle inside Vigan City to traverse short to lengthy distances that cannot be covered on foot (auto-rickshaw). These have a maximum seating capacity of 4 people.

Traditional Food