Places to Visit in Vigan, Philippines

Brief Summary

Step back in time with a visit to Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Asia’s best-preserved Spanish colonial towns. Known for its cobblestone streets, ancestral houses, and horse-drawn carriages, this charming city perfectly blends the past and present. Whether you’re exploring Calle Crisologo, savoring authentic Ilocano dishes, or watching the dancing fountain by Plaza Salcedo, Vigan offers a nostalgic yet vibrant travel experience. This guide shares top attractions, travel tips, and how to stay connected during your visit.

About Vigan

Vigan is located in Ilocos Sur, in the northern part of Luzon, and is famous for its beautifully preserved architecture from the 16th century. The city showcases a unique fusion of Asian and European influences, reflected in its baroque churches, antique shops, and well-preserved heritage homes.

For travelers from Singapore, Vigan makes for a relaxing historical getaway. Fly into Laoag International Airport or Clark International Airport, then take a scenic drive or bus ride north. Once there, you’ll be greeted by horse-drawn kalesas, colonial buildings, and friendly locals who take pride in their city’s timeless charm.

Quick Facts Table

Stay Connected While Travelling to Vigan

Exploring Vigan’s cobblestone streets and centuries-old landmarks is even better when you’re online — whether you’re finding café recommendations or sharing photos of the city’s timeless beauty. With Circles.Life Borderless Plans, you can enjoy seamless connectivity across the Philippines, including Ilocos Sur, without switching SIM cards or worrying about unreliable hotel Wi-Fi.

SIM Only and eSIM Plans for the Philippines

Roaming Add-ons for the Philippines

How to Activate Circles.Life Roaming for Vigan

1. Open the Circles.Life app.

2. Select Roaming & Data Plans.

3. Choose Philippines (Vigan) from the list.

4. Pick your preferred plan and confirm payment.

5. Activate when you arrive at Laoag or Clark Airport — you’ll be connected before your heritage tour begins.

Top Attractions in Vigan You Shouldn’t Miss

Vigan offers a glimpse into the Philippines’ colonial history, with every street corner telling a story. Here are some of the best Vigan tourist spots to explore:

Calle Crisologo

The heart of Vigan’s heritage district, Calle Crisologo is a charming cobblestone street lined with Spanish-era houses, antique shops, and cafés. As you walk or ride a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage), you’ll feel transported back to the 18th century. At night, the lamps illuminate the street, creating a romantic glow perfect for photos.

• Location: Vigan Heritage Village

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Why Visit: The most iconic street in Vigan and a living postcard of colonial history

Bantay Bell Tower

Perched on a hill overlooking the town, Bantay Bell Tower offers panoramic views of Vigan and nearby mountains. Built in 1591, it once served as a watchtower during wartime and now stands as one of the region’s most famous landmarks.

• Location: Bantay, Ilocos Sur (10 minutes from Vigan town proper)

• Entry Fee: Donation-based (₱50 suggested)

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: Combines history, architecture, and breathtaking views of Ilocos countryside

Plaza Salcedo and Dancing Fountain Show

Named after Spanish explorer Juan de Salcedo, Plaza Salcedo is Vigan’s main town square and a vibrant community hub. By day, it’s surrounded by historic buildings and centuries-old churches; by night, it transforms with a dazzling dancing fountain show featuring lights, water, and music. The plaza also marks the center of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

• Location: Plaza Salcedo, Vigan City

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: Fountain show starts around 7:30 PM daily

• Why Visit: A lively evening experience that blends culture, music, and local pride

Syquia Mansion Museum

Once home to former Philippine President Elpidio Quirino, the Syquia Mansion offers a fascinating look at elite life during the Spanish colonial period. The mansion houses antique furniture, old photographs, and historical artifacts that transport visitors to the grandeur of 19th-century Vigan.

• Location: Quirino Boulevard, Vigan City

• Entry Fee: ₱100 (SGD 2.50)

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Why Visit: A preserved piece of Vigan’s aristocratic history and a must-see for architecture lovers

Pagburnayan Jar Factory

Experience one of Vigan’s oldest crafts at the Pagburnayan Jar Factory, where skilled artisans shape clay into traditional earthenware jars. Visitors can watch the potters at work — or even try their hand at the pottery wheel. It’s a creative, hands-on stop that showcases the city’s enduring craftsmanship.

• Location: Liberation Boulevard, Vigan City

• Entry Fee: Free (donations encouraged)

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Why Visit: A cultural experience connecting travelers to Vigan’s traditional pottery-making heritage

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral (Vigan Cathedral)

This 18th-century baroque church stands at the heart of Vigan and remains one of the city’s most important religious landmarks. Its architecture reflects both Spanish and local Ilocano influences, and it continues to host daily Mass services. The cathedral’s serene interior and location next to Plaza Salcedo make it a peaceful stop on any walking tour.

• Location: Burgos Street, Vigan City

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: A beautifully preserved church that embodies Vigan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage

Hidden Garden Vigan

A tranquil escape from the busy heritage streets, Hidden Garden is a lush sanctuary filled with tropical plants, garden cafés, and Ilocano delicacies. It’s a great spot to relax, shop for souvenirs, or try local dishes like bagnet (crispy pork belly) and empanada in a garden setting.

• Location: Katipunan Street, Barangay Bulala, Vigan City

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

• Why Visit: A relaxing green space combining food, nature, and local culture

Vigan: What to Know Before You Go

How to Get to Vigan

There are no direct international flights to Vigan, but it’s easy to reach through several scenic routes. The fastest way is to fly from Singapore to Laoag or Clark, then take a 3–6 hour land trip by bus, van, or private car. Travelers coming from Manila can book a 9–10 hour overnight bus (e.g., Partas or Dominion lines) that drops you right in Vigan City. Most hotels can also arrange private transfers for a more comfortable journey.

Getting Around Vigan

Vigan’s compact layout makes it perfect for exploring on foot or by kalesa (horse-drawn carriage), which remains one of the most iconic ways to tour the city. For short trips, tricycles are readily available, while private vans or car rentals can be used for visiting nearby attractions like Bantay or the Ilocos countryside. Walking through the cobblestone streets is still the best way to soak up the atmosphere and discover hidden cafés and antique shops.

Best Time to Visit Vigan

The best time to visit Vigan is during the dry season (November to May) when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

• December to February: Cool and comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds.

• March to May: Warmer days, perfect for day tours and food trips.

• January: Don’t miss the Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts, which celebrates the city’s culture and craftsmanship.

Where to Stay in Vigan

• Budget: Guesthouses and inns near Calle Crisologo for affordable and central stays.

• Mid-range: Boutique hotels in Vigan Heritage Village with traditional architecture and modern comfort.

• Luxury: Ancestral house hotels and restored villas offering heritage interiors and first-class amenities.

Book your accommodation with Agoda discounts from Circles.Life to get exclusive rates on charming stays across Vigan City.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Vigan is one of those destinations where history, culture, and food come together beautifully — and with a little preparation, your trip can be even more enjoyable:

• Stay connected with a local SIM or eSIM. Mobile data helps you navigate Vigan’s cobblestone streets, find local eateries, or book museum tours.

• Bring small cash denominations. Many souvenir shops, kalesa rides, and local restaurants prefer cash payments, especially in the heritage area.

• Dress comfortably. Light clothing and walking shoes are essential for exploring Calle Crisologo and nearby sites under the sun.

• Travel early. Morning strolls are best for cooler temperatures and quieter streets; evenings are ideal for fountain shows and alfresco dining.

• Taste local dishes. Try Vigan longganisa (garlic sausage), empanada, and bagnet — all staples of Ilocano cuisine you can’t miss.

Travel Smart – Get Roaming Plans Before Travel

Vigan’s historic streets are best enjoyed without worrying about data connectivity. With Circles.Life Borderless Plans, you can activate your roaming before leaving Singapore and stay connected from the moment you land in the Philippines. It’s the most convenient way to navigate maps, post photos, or stay in touch while traveling through Ilocos Sur.

Here’s how to make the most of your plan:

• Set it up before departure. Activate your eSIM through the Circles.Life app for instant connectivity upon arrival.

• Choose value and coverage. The Borderless Plan offers 100 GB for SGD 30/month — perfect for travelers exploring multiple Philippine cities.

• Enjoy flexibility. eSIMs eliminate the need to swap SIM cards, giving you consistent data whether you’re in Laoag, Vigan, or Manila.

With a reliable roaming plan ready, you can focus on what really matters — capturing Vigan’s timeless charm and enjoying your trip without missing a beat.