Tagbilaran City Hotels

More than just an entry point, there is much to appreciate in Tagbilaran City. This small city packs a punch of exciting places to explore as it is home to 300 heritage houses, various award-winning restaurants, some of the country’s most luxurious resorts and hotels, and, best of all, unspoiled beaches.

At A Glance

As the only urban area in the province, Tagbilaran City serves as Bohol’s capital and its center of trade and commerce. It is known as the “City of Peace and Friendship the blood compact made between Rajah Sikatuna and Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legaspi as a sign of peace and friendship in 1565. Tagbilaran City is a transit point to the province’s other tourist spots such as the Chocolate Hills, Panglao Island, and other interesting heritage sites like old stone churches.

How to Go

By plane

There are direct flights from Manila going to Tagbilaran, where travel period takes about an hour and 15 minutes or so. You can choose from a variety of airlines such as Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and Air Asia.

By boat/ferry

If you’re coming from Cebu, the shortest and fastest way is through Cebu City Pier. Some of the fast ferry companies are 2GO (formerly Supercat), Oceanjet, and Weesam Express. Oceanjet, due to its schedule that allows greater flexibility, is recommended for travelers visiting Bohol as a day trip from Cebu City.

For a more leisure travel, you can take a boat or ferry from Manila Seaport that will take about 25 hours before you reach Tagbilaran.

Getting Around

If you’re a practical traveler and you have no qualms riding public transportations, you have a lot of options in Tagbilaran. The most commonly used transportation is the tricycle, but you can choose a jeepney or a habal-habal, which is a motorcycle. But if you want more comfort and convenience, you can splurge on your ride. There are taxis and cars for hire that will take you around the city. Daily rental prices will depend on the type of vehicle, the agency, and if it is automatic or manual.

Tourist Attractions

The rich heritage and culture of Tagbilaran are very evident in its various tourist attractions. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back activity or planning a more adventurous itinerary, there’s definitely something for you to enjoy here.

Kaingit Beach is quite famous with the locals and visitors alike as the area is enclosed in a cove, which makes it protected from stormy winds making the waves calm and gentle. It is best for travelers with small children.

Blood Compact Marker in Bool district is where the history of Tagbilaran started. This site was made in honor of a very important event where the blood compact of a native Filipino chieftain and a Spanish explorer took place.

Top Things to Do

If you are a person who is fond of history, heritage, and culture, the Tagbilaran Heritage Walk is for you. The aim of this tour is to promote Tagbilaran as one of Bohol’s premiere destination and not just a gateway. It highlights the rich history and heritage of the city as well as the lifestyle of the locals. This is also a chance to get to know Boholanons because travelers will have an opportunity to interact with the locals.

If you are traveling to Tagbilaran on the month of July, do not miss out the Sandugo Festival. Sandugo Festival is a month-long celebration wherein the city and its nearby towns hold non-stop fiesta. Food lovers will never go wrong on this because the festival has an International Fusion Nights where the cuisine of high-end resorts and restaurants are offered at a more affordable price for the public.

Where to Eat

For the yummiest restaurant around Tagbilaran City, you can go to Gerarda’s Restaurant for a modern take on Filipino cuisine. Their seafood kare-kare, crispy tinadyang, and ube kinampay are a must-try. The city also houses the best restaurant that serves fresh and tasty seafood. JJ Seafood Restaurant’s menu offers delectable fish, shrimps, and crabs.

Before leaving Tagbilaran, make sure to eat at Lohob Bar and Restaurant. It is one of the famous and award-winning restaurant that serves the best Filipino dishes accompanied with excellent service.

Nightlife

Tagbilaran, although considered a city, is still literally a province. Locals generally live a simple life. The place is quiet after 11pm and there is a few night time entertainment establishments.

For those looking for some nocturnal activities, you can try Teritoryo or KTV at Criscentville Pension House. The first one is a watering hole where several stalls grill pork, chicken, and seafood while the latter is for those who like to sing the night away.

Where to Stay

A wide array of hotels and inns from budget up to the most luxurious one is available in Tagbilaran City. You can book a room at Dao Diamond Hotel if you want to enjoy an ultimate rest and relaxation, but with a cause. The profit from this hotel helps to support the children and provides jobs for the deaf. With this, you can say that you are living the best of both worlds – enjoying your vacation while helping other people.

For budget travelers, you can stay in Darunday Manor, Taver’s Pension House, Panda Tea Garden Suites or Soledad Suites to name some of the well-priced accommodations in Tagbilaran City. You can also ask the locals to know more about the best affordable hotels around the area.

Travel Tips

• Bring a bottle of water, small towel, and an umbrella if you’re joining the Tagbilaran Heritage Walk.

• Plan your itinerary properly and make sure to follow the simple rules in the places of attraction.

• Be careful when riding a habal-habal because sometimes there are no available helmets for use.