Vigan is undeniably beautiful!
The first time I visited Vigan was in my first year of college as part of our Ilocos Field Trip. Back then, phones didn’t have cameras, so I only have a handful of photos – mostly group shots with literally no background. 😂
After our recent trip to Little Vigan (in Nueva Ecija), I realized how much I missed the real thing! So, I knew I had to visit “Big” Vigan again, this time with fresh eyes and a camera ready to capture every moment.
Getting to Ilocos was an adventure on its own. A 7-hour motorcycle ride from Pampanga isn’t exactly a breeze, and La Union is notoriously hot. But luckily, we managed to plan our trip in December when the weather was finally giving us a break. The cool breeze and festive atmosphere made it the perfect time to explore.
This trip felt completely different from my first visit nearly 20 years ago. Back then, it was just a quick field trip stop. We stayed overnight in a secluded building, far from the city, with barely any time to appreciate Vigan’s beauty. And our visit to Calle Crisologo was brief, just enough to buy pasalubong before moving on to the next destination.
This time, I got to truly experience Vigan. The people are friendly, the city is complete with everything you need, and the tourist spots are just a short ride away. Plus, food and lodging are surprisingly affordable!
While there are plenty of attractions to visit (in Ilocos Norte), we only wanted to take things slow and enjoy the essence of Vigan. So if you’re looking for a laid-back vacation, here are the best tourist spots to explore.
Best Vigan Tourist Spots
Calle Crisologo
Of course, once you arrive, the first stop has to be Calle Crisologo. It’s vintage, it’s iconic, and it’s one of the must-visit places in Vigan City.
The cobblestone streets lined with ancestral houses, kalesas (horse-drawn carriages), and rustic lamps make it feel like you’ve traveled back in time. The best part? It’s not just for sightseeing. The street is alive with antique shops, souvenir stores, and local delicacies like Vigan longganisa and empanada. It’s the perfect place to stroll, shop, and just take in the old-world charm.
Baluarte Zoo
I know what you’re thinking—zoos often have a bad reputation for mistreating animals. But “our experience” at Baluarte Zoo was different. We visited on a weekday, so there were no scheduled shows, and the great tigers weren’t sedated for picture-taking.
What really stood out was how spacious the place was. Unlike typical zoos where animals are confined to small cages, here they have plenty of room to roam freely. Impalas casually walk near visitors, while exotic birds and reptiles add to the safari-like experience. If you love animals or just want a unique experience in Vigan, Baluarte is worth a visit.
Bantay Bell Tower
Just a short ride from the city center is the Bantay Bell Tower, one of the most picturesque spots in Vigan. Built in the 1590s, it originally served as a watchtower to guard against pirate invasions, making it one of the oldest structures in the region. The tower remains open for visitors, but climbing up has been prohibited since 2022 due to structural damage from an earthquake.
Plaza Salcedo
If you’re looking for a place to just sit back and relax, Plaza Salcedo is the perfect spot. Located right in front of the Vigan Cathedral, this plaza is best visited in the evening when the famous dancing fountain show happens. The mix of lights, music, and waterworks creates a magical atmosphere, and the best part? It’s completely free!
Hidden Garden
After exploring the city, we needed a quiet place to unwind, and Hidden Garden was the perfect escape. It’s a lush, beautifully landscaped garden with a restaurant serving authentic Ilocano dishes. The setting is peaceful, and the food is top-notch. Their Vigan empanada and bagnet are must-tries!
Crisologo Museum
If you’re into history, the Crisologo Museum is a great stop. The museum is actually the ancestral home of the late Congressman Floro Crisologo, who played a key role in preserving Vigan’s heritage. It’s filled with antique furniture, old photographs, and even his vintage car. It’s like stepping into a time capsule of Vigan’s past.
Extra Tips to Make the Most of Your Vigan Trip
Choose Your Accommodation Wisely:
Staying in a hotel along Calle Crisologo is a great experience, but it comes at a higher price. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of hotels just outside the heritage area (still walking distance) offering rooms for around ₱1,500 per night, often with free breakfast!
Plan your itinerary:
On your first day, explore Calle Crisologo, visit the Crisologo Museum, and wrap up your day with the stunning Plaza Salcedo fountain show at night.
Try a kalesa tour:
We were hesitant at first, but after riding with Boss Toyo, we realized that the horses genuinely enjoy walking. The ride was affordable, relaxing, and a great way to experience the city from a different perspective.
Visit Baluarte and Hidden Garden early:
These spots are easily accessible, and you don’t need a pricey tour to get there. A tricycle ride costs around ₱100 one way for two people. Start your morning at Baluarte Zoo, then head to Hidden Garden for a late breakfast or early lunch to unwind in a lush and peaceful setting.
Go in December:
The cooler weather makes walking around much more enjoyable, plus you get to experience Vigan in a festive atmosphere.
Explore Local Cuisine:
Vigan is a foodie’s paradise, so don’t just settle for the usual. Try street food stalls for authentic Ilocano flavors, visit local eateries for traditional dishes, and don’t skip the Vigan empanada. Eating like a local is part of the experience!