Truly one of the nicest things that God can greatly shower upon any country, like the Philippines, “Why?”. It is solely because of Vigan’s discovery, local and foreign experts describe Vigan as a ” place like no other”.Unlike many cities in the Philippines, Vigan’s heritage has been preserved. Vigan City is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines found in Ilocos Region Its establishment can be traced back to the 16th century and considered as the most intact planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. The architecture of the city manifests a mixture of cultural elements from the Philippines, China, and even Europe.
Vigan brings images of antiquated houses, cobbled narrow streets, calesas and friendly faces peering out of large windows; a place where “time stood still”. Yet, despite all the romantic images this place provokes, much is still unfamiliar about Vigan. Vigan was included in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list in December 1999 and converted into a component city last January 21, 2001.
The City is unique because it is considered to be the most extensive and old surviving historic city in the country that is still preserved up until now. People who will visit Vigan City will find a very modern and clean city with lots of restaurants, hotels, and shops and many tourist sights to be seen.
There’s a lot to enjoy in Vigan like homes of prominent historical figures turned into museums, a ride in a kalesa, or horse-drawn carriage. A Vigan tour won’t also be complete without a few stops at homegrown restaurants and food stalls serving you with a taste of native Ilocandia dishes and delicacies. The good thing about touring Vigan is that you get to learn a lot about its history, culture, and way of life through the town’s homegrown establishments.
Bedazzled as you are taken into the colonial era when you visit these beautiful places in the City.
1.Explore Calle Crisologo
2.Syquia Mansion
3. Visit Bantay Bell Tower
4. Visit Baluarte Chavit Singson
5.Ride a Calesa
6.Visit Father Burgos House
7.Witness Abel weavers at their craft
8. Visit Vigan Cathedral
9.Plaza Salcedo
10.RG Jar Factory
Where to shop in Vigan City?
Calle Crisologo is the perfect place to shop for pasalubong. All tourist-related stuff is there like ref magnets, souvenirs shirts, mugs, etc.
What are the best pasalubong from Vigan to bring back home?
Ilocos Chichacorn! Also, get your friends/family to feel the comfort of the Bigueño weaving skills.
Getting to Vigan by bus from Manila
If you are getting to Vigan by bus, the ride will take at least 8 hrs. on the road. Partas Bus Co., Dominion Bus Lines, Viron Transit and St. Joseph/Aniceto Transit have regular trips to Vigan. Farinas Transit, Maria de Leon and Florida have regular trips plying the Manila-Laoag route, which passes by Vigan.