Vigan City

Asia

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Philippines

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Vigan City

Located on the northern part of the Philippines, on the island of Luzon, Vigan City is a captivating destination that can transport you back in time. Renowned for its exceptionally preserved Spanish colonial heritage, Vigan has earned the prestigious distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The heart of Vigan is its historic center, Calle Crisologo, a Spanish colonial heritage area with cobblestone streets and centuries-old Spanish colonial houses known as “bahay na bato”. Calle Crisologo is a pedestrian-only area, so you can explore it by strolling along its streets or riding on kalesa, a horse-drawn carriage.

To dive deeper into Vigan’s heritage, take a trip to its historic center, the Mestizo District, where centuries-old churches, ancestral homes, and museums await. Other must-visit landmarks include the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, the Burgos Museum, and the Crisologo Museum.

For a deeper cultural experience, indulge in Vigan’s culinary delights, including longganisa (sausages), empanadas (pastries), and sinanglao (soup). Vigan also hosts the colorful and vibrant Viva Vigan Festival, which celebrates its culture through parades, street dancing, and more.

Exploring Vigan City offers a unique glimpse into the Philippines' colonial past, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking history, culture, and authenticity.

Get to Know Vigan City

Take a tour of this destination's highlights

Travel Tips for Vigan City

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Vigan City

A guide to Vigan City's local transportation

Kalesa

Tricycle

Getting around Vigan City using a kalesa is a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture. Kalesa is a horse-drawn carriage that is commonly found in Calle Crisologo area and is perfect for short-distance travel within the city.

In fact, the kalesas are the only public transportation that is allowed in Calle Crisologo. Riding these carriage make you feel like you’ve been transported back to the Spanish colonial period. The rates for kalesas usually ranges around 150 pesos per hour and you can hire a private kalesa for a more relaxed exploration of Vigan’s attractions.

Practical Tips for Vigan City

Things to prepare and best way to visit

Is 2 days enough for Vigan?

Two days can provide a decent glimpse of Vigan's main attractions, including Calle Crisologo, historic churches, and museums. However, to fully immerse yourself in the city's rich culture and heritage, consider extending your stay to explore its hidden gems and savor the local cuisine.

What is Vigan famous for?

Vigan is famous for its exceptionally preserved Spanish colonial-era architecture, earning it the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's renowned for Calle Crisologo, a cobblestone street lined with centuries-old Spanish-style houses, and the Mestizo District, where historic churches, ancestral homes, and museums showcase its heritage.

Vigan is also known for its delicious culinary offerings, including longganisa (sausages) and empanadas (pastries), as well as its vibrant festivals like the Viva Vigan Festival, celebrating its rich culture and history.

How to get to Vigan City from Manila?

To get to Vigan City from Manila, you can take a bus or a private vehicle. The most common route is by bus, with several bus companies offering daily trips from Manila to Vigan. The journey takes approximately 7-10 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen bus route. Buses depart from terminals like Partas, Dominion, and Florida in Manila.

What are the dos and don’ts in Vigan City?

Dos in Vigan City include respecting its heritage by adhering to preservation guidelines, sampling local cuisine, exploring the tourist attractions, and participating in local festivals to embrace the culture. When shopping, it’s acceptable to haggle, but do so politely.

Refrain from littering, vandalizing the historical sites, and being disrespectful towards local customs and traditions to ensure a harmonious experience for both locals and visitors alike.

What are the top attractions in Vigan City?

Some of the top attractions in Vigan City includes the Calle Crisologo, one of the most well-preserved Spanish colonial heritage sites, St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Burgos Museum, which showcases local history.

You can also visit the Mestizo District which is famous for its ancestral homes, Baluarte Zoo, Syquia Mansion, and enjoy a kalesa ride through the city’s charming streets to immerse yourself in Vigan’s rich cultural heritage.