Whether you’re here for the Dinagyang fever, Iloilo City is a charming, vibrant city with abundant activities for visitors. The city offers plenty of options whether you’re an avid explorer or just looking for relaxation and fun. Here are activities perfect for a budget-friendly January trip and to have fun in Iloilo City.
1. Visit historical sites and old houses
With such a long history, it’s no surprise that Iloilo City is home to many fascinating historical sites. You will get an education on Philippine history and a chance to marvel at some of the city’s most beautiful landmarks.
a. Lizares Mansion
The Lizares Mansion is a heritage mansion with American and Spanish elegant motifs. It was built in 1937 by Don Emiliano Lizares, a Jaro-born sugar haciendero. Today, the mansion houses the Angelicum School and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iloilo City. I also heard you can reserve the venue for photoshoots and business meetings!
b. Casa Mariquit
Casa Mariquit is a charming Spanish colonial house once home to an influential family. Built by Ramon Javellana, and was inherited by his daughter, Mariquit, and her husband, Fernando Lopez, who served as vice president of the Philippines.
c. Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral
A visit to Iloilo City would not be complete without seeing the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral. This baroque cathedral, built in 1864, is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Jaro. Pope John Paul II came to the cathedral and blessed Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria. Rumor has it that the statue is alive and has grown from a foot up to its big size today. The cathedral is a beautiful sight, and it is well worth taking the time to explore it.
Take a wondrous look also at the new Jaro Belfry!
d. Nelly’s Garden
Nelly’s Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Iloilo City. Dubbed the Queen of Heritage Houses, the grandiose architecture of the house is a sight to behold. The house is also notable for its cultural and architectural prominence. A scheduled guided tour is available that will take you through the different parts of the house and explain its history and significance.
Special: Montinola Mansion – closed
Recommended reading: Montinola Ancestral Mansion and the Lost Garden Café in Iloilo City
Jaro is also known for its old families and ancestral houses – and the Montinola Ancestral House is one of them. It is located beside SM Savemore Jaro, right in front of the Jaro Cathedral.
The house used to be grand and beautiful, hosting parties in the golden days. It is owned by the Montinola family, who now reside either in Manila or the states. Around the 2010s, the house was divided into different sections. The ground floor now houses the Garden Cafe, while the second floor has a Korean-English tutorial school.
Despite its current state, the Montinola Ancestral House still stands proud, reminiscent of Jaro’s grandeur in its heyday. While the mansion is closed to the public, it remains a popular tourist attraction thanks to its beautiful architecture and rich history.
e. Provincial Capitol, Casa Real, Iloilo Province Fountain and Arroyo Fountain
The Iloilo Provincial Capitol is a grand edifice that stands out against its backdrop. Visitors to the Capitol can admire its capitol grounds, sculptures, and mural (fountain) while learning more about the region’s governing body and its role in contributing to society.
Meanwhile, Casa Real was integral to Philippine history as one of the oldest remaining buildings in the Iloilo Province. Having been constructed in 1901 to serve as the official residence of the alcalde-mayor or governor, Casa Real is well-rich with legendary stories. Its restoration to its former pristine splendor was due to its declaration as a historical landmark by the National Historical Commission in 2010. Within five years, it rose back to its former glory and has since become a locale for private parties, government functions, and cultural events.
Arroyo Fountain, also known as Kilometer 0, is a neoclassical-style fountain in Iloilo City. The fountain was built in the early 20th century and features four women holding basins. The Fountain is located near the city center and is a short walk from many of the city’s hotels and restaurants.
f. Calle Real
Travel to Iloilo City and explore Calle Real, the city’s old downtown district. This is the famous shopping part of town for locals and is home to neoclassical buildings and heritage structures. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
What you can find in Calle Real:
- Javellana Building
- Regent Theatre
- Iloilo Aduana (Iloilo Customs House)
- S. Villanueva Building
- Cine Aguila
- Roberto’s Siopao
- Buho Bakery
- Dainty House Restaurant
- Central Market
- Sam’s
Many other old famous stores along Aldeguer, Mapa, Ortiz, Muelle Loney (Loney Wharf), Solis, Rizal, Iznart (from Chinese Arch to Iloilo Central Market) – I can’t remember.
g. Sunburst Park
I placed Sunburst Park here because of its historical significance. The Sunburst Park in Iloilo City is a stirring reminder of the bravery and triumph achieved by its citizens at the end of WWII. Named after US Army 40th Infantry “Sunburst” Division which liberated Panay from Japanese rule, this verdant park is opposite The Customs House.
Before, this area was where the Iloilo Grandstand Stood. And I may not be sure about it, but I’ve read somewhere that this place might be where they held bullfights in the old times.
h. Iloilo City Hall and Ker and Co Building
This is the seat of administration for the city, and seated above is the Lin-ay sang Iloilo. Inside, not only you’ll find city offices but exciting artwork in the various walkways around the city hall.
Founded in the mid-19th century by British investors, Ker and Co. was a thriving enterprise with offices across Manila and Singapore. Under their watchful eye, Nicolas Loney rose through the ranks to become Britain’s Vice Consul. British investors introduced sugar cane cuttings into Iloilo from its Straits Colonies.
i. Plaza Libertad
Formerly known as Plaza Alfonso XII to commemorate a Spanish king, it is one of oldest plazas in the country and is considered sacred ground due to its importance during 1898 – when revolutionary forces led by General Martin Delgado triumphantly raised their flag here after claiming victory over Spain’s last capital city. Today this plaza fronts the Iloilo City Government, providing both respite and grandeur for locals and visitors alike.
j. San Jose Church
Established by the Jesuits in 1607, the present church was built by Agustinians in 1873. It houses the 1616 image of Nuestra Señora del Santo Rosario and the replica of Santo Niño de Cebu, whose feast is celebrated as Dinagyang Festival. The church is in front of Plaza Libertad, a popular tourist spot. When you visit the San Jose Church, you’ll be able to see firsthand how important faith is to the people of Iloilo City.
k. Fort San Pedro
Fort San Pedro, built in the early 1600s by Spanish conquistador Pedro Bravo de Acuña to safeguard Iloilo City from invaders and destruction, has since had a long history of tumult. After being demolished during World War II, reclaimed as an open park for recreation shortly thereafter – complete with food and beverage concessions – this cultural landmark may now be undergoing reconstruction – a proposal recently brought forth by the local government beckons on Fort San Pedro’s next chapter.
l. Molo Church and Molo Plaza
If you travel to Iloilo City, check out the Molo Church. This unique neogothic church is known as the feminist church, as all of its 16 saints are women, in contrast to the Jaro Cathedral. The Molo Plaza is also a must-see. This beautiful and spacious plaza is home to the Athens of Iloilo gazebo, an elegant structure built in Graeco forms.
m. Molo Mansion
The Molo Mansion, also known as the Yusay-Consing Mansion, is a heritage museum in Iloilo City. The mansion was built in the 19th century and is now repurposed as a cultural shop that sells everything local. The Molo Mansion is open to the public for tours and events. On its grounds, visitors can lounge, eat, and drink coffee!
n. Sinamay House at Villa Arevalo
Situated in the heart of Arevalo, Sinamay House has stood as a proud testament to Filipino heritage since its establishment by Mrs. Cecilia Gison Villanueva’s great-grandfather towards the end of the 19th century. Boasting two floors dedicated to crafting sinamay fabric and home-style meals from Mama’s Kitchen House – both found within this venerable residence – Sinamay House has become much more than just an attraction for locals. The place is also popular for visitors looking for delicious pasalubong delicacies while they marvel at the rich cultural history that radiates throughout every corner of this iconic location.
o. Camiña Balay Nga Bato
Arevalo is one of Iloilo City’s charming districts, with its well-preserved houses reflecting a bygone era. A must-visit in Arevalo is the Camiña Balay nga Bato, an ancestral house turned museum that gives visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of an affluent Ilonggo family during the 19th century. The house is full of antiques and exciting knick-knacks!
2. Sample delicious cuisine
Food lovers will be delighted by the array of culinary options available in Iloilo City. From savory seafood dishes like kinilaw (raw fish salad) and Pancit Molo to sweet desserts like tsokolate and biscocho, Iloilo City will always have your stomach’s interest at best. The best part? You won’t have to break the bank to do so!
Iloilo City is a great destination for food lovers looking for delicious dishes with unique flavors. You should not miss seven must-try cuisines if you find yourself in Iloilo City. From hearty soups to seafood delights, here’s a list of the top 7 cuisines in Iloilo City that you should try.
Batchoy
Batchoy is an Ilonggo favorite and is made with pork and innards, mixed with meke noodles and served in a flavorful broth. The broth is prepared with beef stock, garlic chips, onions, pork cracklings (chicharon) and other herbs. Traditionally topped with chives and pork cracklings, batchoy can be topped with hard-boiled eggs. Best served with puto!
Pancit Molo
This dish consists of wonton wrappers filled with ground pork or shrimp (or chicken shreds), vegetables and spices – all simmered together in a rich broth. It’s usually served as an appetizer but can also be enjoyed as a main course accompanied by steamed white rice or pandesal (Filipino bread roll).
KBL
KBL stands for “Kadios Baboy Langka” which translates to dried pigeon peas cooked with pork belly cubes and green jackfruit strips simmered over low heat until all the ingredients are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully together, creating a savory dish often served over steamed rice.
Seafood
No visit to Iloilo City would be complete without savoring some freshly caught seafood. Classic favorites include talaba, shells like tahong as well as local delicacies like tambo with suso which is cooked with gata.
Pinamalhan nga Isda
Pinamalhan nga isda is a traditional Ilonggo food that is fashioned by cooking the fish in vinegar and soy sauce, in an almost dry consistency. ‘Mala’ in ilonggo means “dry” and is fittingly employed to describe this cooking style. The cook adds a small bit of oil to intensify the flavor just before serving, resulting in distinct and savory flavors that come alive with each bite.
Laswa
Laswa is an Ilonggo vegetable stew, a veritable medley of flavors and ingredients. This Ilonggo staple is prepared by cooking assorted vegetables down garlic, onion and fish sauce until they melt together into a warm and flavorful dish. Popular vegetables used in laswa include talong (eggplant), squash, string beans, and alugbati. It can be further spiced up by adding shrimp as desired.
Linagpang
Mas namit kung makahang pa gid! This Ilonggo staple involves grilling chicken or catfish before adding it to a hot soup mixture made with ginger, onions, tomatoes, and chili peppers. The perfect blend of ingredients adds a unique flavor to the dish: savory from the chicken or fish combined with some heat from ginger and chili peppers.
Recommended reading: On the trail for Ilonggo food, local eats
3. Attend Dinagyang Festival
Ilonggos celebrate the Dinagyang Festival every year in late January with elaborate parades, lively music, and colorful costumes. Revered as one of Southeast Asia’s top cultural events, Dinagyang brings together people from various religious backgrounds and ages to celebrate Santo Nino, Ilonggo’s patron saint. It’s truly an unforgettable experience!
Recommended reading:
4. Watch Movies at Cinematheque
There are two cinematheques in Iloilo City: UPV Cinematheque and FDCP Cinematheque. End your day with a movie or two in these movie houses. Boasting state-of-the-art facilities and airconditioned comfort, this movie house screens international films alongside local independent productions from time to time—all for very affordable prices!
- Cinematheque Centre Iloilo, G/F B&C Square Bldg, Solis St, Iloilo City Proper
- UPV Cinematheque, University of the Philippines Visayas (City Campus) Infante Avenue , Iloilo City
5. Participate in community gatherings
Get involved with local events hosted by community organizers! These may be Pride Fest, community learnings, lectures, workshops, or general meetups. These events offer great opportunities to meet new people while learning more about life in Iloilo City beyond tourist attractions—without spending much money!
6. Visit museums
Is Iloilo City the museum capital of the Philippines, also? Iloilo is a renowned repository of art, culture, and science. Museums in the city are abundant with hidden gems from various fields showcasing the rich history and grandeur that runs through Iloilo’s veins. For instance, the renowned Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art houses a diverse collection of contemporary art pieces from local and international artists.
Here are other museums you can go to. Many of them are inexpensive or free!
- National Museum of the Philippines, Old Provincial Jail, Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo (free)
- Museum of Philippine Economic History, JM Basa St, Iloilo City Proper (free)
- Musée d’ Arsie, The Metro Iloilo Modern Arts Park, Diversion Road, Sambag, Jaro, Iloilo City (Php 100 for adults and Php 50 for students)
- The Henry Luce III Museum and Library, Central Philippine University, Jaro, Iloilo City
- UPV Art Gallery, University of The Philippines Visayas, Gen. Luna cor. Infante St., Iloilo City
- John B. Lacson Foundation Museum of Maritime Culture and Craft, MH del Pilar St, Molo, Iloilo City
- Museo Iloilo, Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City (PhP50 for adults and PhP25 for students)
- Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA), Casa de Emperador Festive Walk Parade, Mandurriao, Iloilo City (Php 100 for adults and Php 50 for students)
- Casa Gamboa, Corner Commission Civil-Jayme Sts., Benedicto, Jaro, Iloilo City (Php 200 for adults and Php 100 for students)
- University of San Agustin Museum, General Luna St, Iloilo City
- Rosendo Mejica Museum, Makinaugalingon Printing Press, Baluarte, Molo, Iloilo City
7. Explore art galleries
Art enthusiasts will be happy to know that Iloilo City also boasts several art galleries that feature an array of works from established and emerging local talents. Many f these galleries offer an impressive selection of paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, videos, and performances from talented artists in Iloilo—all under one roof!
See them above in #6
8. Bike tour
Iloilo City is a great place to explore by bike. The city has a growing biking scene, with plenty of bike paths and trails to enjoy. Iloilo City has an extensive bike-lanes network, making it perfect for cycling enthusiasts. There are several bike rental shops around town where you can rent bicycles for as low as PHP 50 per day. The Iloilo Diversion Road is a great place to start, with plenty of restaurants and shops along the way.
9. Spot murals
One of the best ways to appreciate modern-day Iloilo is by taking time off to admire its vibrant street art scene—which includes everything from colorful murals to towering statues scattered throughout various parts of town. A good starting point will be at Muelle Loney where you can find the murals of Teresa Magbanua (Visayan Joan of Arc), Graciano Lopez Jaena (National Hero, Ilonggo Journalist), Train to Muelle (children riding on the Panay Railway), and the Binukot mural.
There is a lot more of it downtown courtesy of Artivism.
10. Take a stroll
What better way to take in all that Iloilo offers than a stroll? Head to Esplanade for breathtaking views of the Iloilo River, or visit Plaza Libertad —which features iconic buildings surrounding the area that are sure to take your breath away! For even more history and culture, head over to Jaro Plaza, where you can check out the Jaro Cathedral and Jaro Belfry alongside grandiose mansions with intricate architectural details still intact after all these years!
Whether you prefer exploring historical monuments or attending festivals, there are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself while on a budget in this fantastic city. Also, try visiting renowned museums and galleries, exploring hidden murals, and taking scenic walks. It doesn’t get any better than experiencing all these beautiful city offers without draining your wallet! The key is planning, so check out all the great activities available before your trip begins.
One Thought to “Inexpensive Ways to Have Fun in Iloilo City”
[…] Inexpensive Ways to Have Fun in Iloilo City this January […]
Comments are closed.