Iloilo is a haven of great food, but one special dish stands out from all the rest -- the ultra Filipino La Paz Batchoy. The noodle soup with egg, beef loin, crispy pork cracklings (crushed chicharon), spring onions, and garlic originated from the La Paz district of the province and has since been a favorite among Filipinos. Locals and tourists can find an authentic bowl of this mouthwatering dish at La Paz Public Market, where Netong’s Original La Paz Batchoy is located.

Iloilo City continues to preserve its old city charm by restoring some of its oldest buildings from the Commonwealth era. Some even date back to the 1800s. Walking down Calle Real, also known as JM Basa Street, and along Plaza Libertad, you’ll get a sense of how Ilonggos lived back in the day -- clean and stress-free. The retro feel of the area recaptures the old glory of what is heritage district of the province.

Early mornings and late afternoons are best spent walking along the Iloilo River Esplanade. The open area is perfect for recreational activities such as jogging, biking, or just taking a stroll along the river to unwind. Most locals also spend their afternoons hanging out with friends and family members, sipping a cup of coffee in one of the cafes near the area while kids play in the open space. The serene waters and the sunrise or sunset complete the calming mood in this tourist spot.

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Provinces aren’t usually synonymous with a good night out, dancing and drinking with friends. However, in Iloilo, the club scene is booming! Smallville Complex in Iloilo City is the hippest spot for a weekend out to have a good time over a couple of beers. The place has a string of dance clubs, bars, KTVs, and restaurants that cater to younger party animals as well as the older, more sophisticated crowd. If you’re looking to have a good time after touring Iloilo tourist spots, head over to Smallville!

One of the biggest festivals in the Philippines, Dinagyang is a celebration of religion and culture of Ilonggos, as well as the colorful history and rich heritage of the province. Highlighted by spirited performances, outrageous costumes, and heart-pounding drumbeats, Dinagyang is a huge spectacle of color and entertainment.

Back to top If you have more time on your hands, venture out of the city and try these awesome activities you'll find in other parts of Iloilo.

There are a ton of places to visit and things to do in Iloilo, but visiting Islas de Gigantes is up there on the list. Gigantes Islands is getting more recognition for being one of the most beautiful, underdeveloped beaches in the country. If you’re looking for white sand beaches, clear blue waters, majestic rock formations, mystic caves, a lagoon, and possibly everything the spells paradise, then Islas de Gigantes is a must visit for you!

Part of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines, Miagao Church in Iloilo has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its history and ornately decorated facade. Completed in 1797, the church was built with thick walls to serve as protection from the Moro invaders. Although it has been severely damaged by natural disasters, it has been restored several times with its structure standing strong today.

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If we talk about Iloilo and beaches, people will probably have Islas de Gigantes at the top of their minds. However, there are more beaches in Iloilo than one might think. Aside from Gigantes Islands, Northern Iloilo has much to boast. Concepcion group of islands is just as magnificent! Divided into 16 white sand islands, these patches of paradise are connected by the clear blue waters of the Visayan Sea. The area is also spotted with green hilltops and mountains half-drowned in the azul waters, as colorful marine life decorate the seas.

Located on the southern tip of Iloilo, San Joaquin boasts of rich marine life. Facing the Panay Gulf, which is considered Marine Protected Areas, San Joaquin offers great scuba diving spots that tourists will enjoy.

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Known as Iloilo’s “Little Baguio”, Bucari in the town of Leon offers a shift from the usual warm, sunny climate of the province. The colder weather and highland attractions, make this place a popular among tourists. Especially those looking for an adventure. Hike and bike trails are available in the area, and the views from the top are worth the trek up!

Cave exploring is one of the more adventurous things to do in Iloilo and no better place to do it than Pawikan Cave. This Iloilo tourist spot gets its name from the large egg-shaped rock found at the bottom of the cave, resembling a giant turtle’s eggs. It is also best known for several more rock formations found at the heart of the cave. Chambers make the adventure more exciting, especially since only rays of little light from creases hundreds of feet up the cave opening light the area.

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A hidden patch of paradise within paradise, this is what Tangke Lagoon is. It’s a natural saltwater pool hidden in the cliffs of Gigantes Island. The clear, blue-green waters are almost unrealistic and the rock formations, majestic -- it’s like a scene of the movie “The Beach.”

Dubbed as the “Christmas Capital of Western Visayas”, the Pototan Plaza is turned into a village of lights during the holidays. The most spacious plaza in Iloilo is glittered with Christmas lights, decorations, and banderitas. The Iwag Festival of Lights also highlights the plaza’s features including the mahogany trees, man-made lagoon, the gazebo, and the Pototan Coliseum.

Back to topEnjoy a fun experience and check out other tourist spots to visit, restaurants to try and more in Iloilo City. Discover cheap hotel deals and cheap flights from carriers like Philippine Airlines, AirAsia, and more with Traveloka!]]>