The 14 BEST things to do in Vigan, Philippines

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Vigan, Philippines!

If you’re looking for a unique and vibrant vacation destination, then look no further than Vigan, Philippines! This charming city is full of history, culture, and endless entertainment options. From exploring ancient colonial buildings to sampling delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Vigan.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Vigan exudes a laid-back, friendly atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and will go out of their way to make sure you have a memorable visit. The city itself has a charming, old-world feel thanks to its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Strolling through the streets of Vigan is like stepping back in time, making it the perfect place for history buffs and anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Weather throughout the year

Vigan has a tropical climate, which means it’s warm and humid year-round. The average temperature is around 27°C (80°F), with the hottest months being March to May and the coolest months being December to February. Rain is common throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the wet season from June to November. Despite the humidity, Vigan is a great place to visit any time of year thanks to its many indoor and outdoor activities.

Why Vigan, Philippines is the best place to be

There are countless reasons why Vigan is the best place to be, but here are just a few:

• The food: Vigan is home to some of the best Filipino cuisine you’ll ever taste. From savory empanadas to sweet puto bumbong, there’s something for every foodie to enjoy. Don’t leave without trying the famous Vigan longganisa (sausage) and Vigan kakanin (rice cakes).
• The history: As one of the oldest cities in the Philippines, Vigan is rich in history and culture. The city is home to numerous colonial-era landmarks, including the Vigan Cathedral and the Syquia Mansion. Take a tour of these historic sites and learn about the city’s storied past.
• The natural beauty: Vigan is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including rolling hills, verdant forests, and crystal clear rivers. Take a hike through the countryside or go river rafting for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
• The shopping: Vigan is a shopper’s paradise, with numerous markets and shops selling everything from traditional handicrafts to modern souvenirs. Don’t forget to haggle for the best deals!

Cost of Travel

Vigan is an affordable destination, with budget-friendly accommodation and dining options available. The cost of travel will depend on your preferences and how much you plan to do and see. That being said, Vigan is a relatively inexpensive place to visit compared to other popular destinations in the Philippines.

Top 14 best things to do in Vigan, Philippines

1. Visit Calle Crisologo: This picturesque street is the heart of Vigan and is lined with well-preserved colonial-era houses and shops. Take a leisurely stroll down the street and soak up the charming atmosphere.
2. Go on a heritage tour: Vigan is full of historic landmarks and cultural sites, so be sure to take a guided tour to learn more about the city’s rich history. Some top sites to visit include the Vigan Cathedral, the Syquia Mansion, and the Crisologo Museum.
3. Shop at the Vigan Public Market: This bustling market is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and try local specialties like empanadas, longganisa, and kakanin. Don’t be afraid to haggle for the best prices!
4. Relax at the Vigan Plaza Salcedo: This picturesque park is a great place to sit and watch the world go by. The park is named after the Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo, who founded Vigan in 1572.
5. Go on a food tour: Vigan is home to some of the best Filipino cuisine you’ll ever taste, so be sure to go on a food tour to try as many local specialties as possible. Some must-try dishes include empanadas, longganisa, and kakanin.
6. Take a boat ride on the Mestizo River: The Mestizo River flows through the heart of Vigan and is a great place to take a relaxing boat ride. You’ll get to see the city from a different perspective and maybe even spot some wildlife along the way.
7. Visit the Vigan Heritage Village: This open-air museum is a great place to learn about Vigan’s history and culture. The village is home to numerous well-preserved colonial-era houses and other historical buildings, including the Vigan Cathedral and the Syquia Mansion.
8. Go on a hiking or cycling adventure: Vigan is surrounded by beautiful countryside, so be sure to take advantage of the great outdoors by going on a hike or bike ride. You’ll get to see some stunning landscapes and maybe even spot some wildlife along the way.
9. Try your hand at pottery: Vigan is known for its pottery, so why not try your hand at making your own? There are several pottery studios in the city where you can learn the art of pottery-making from local artisans.
10. Take a cooking class: If you’re a foodie, then you won’t want to miss the opportunity to take a cooking class in Vigan. You’ll learn how to make some of the city’s most famous dishes, like empanadas and longganisa, from local chefs.
11. Go on a river rafting adventure: The Mestizo River is a great place for river rafting, with numerous companies offering guided tours. You’ll get to see some stunning landscapes and maybe even spot some wildlife along the way.
12. Visit the Vigan Museum: This museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Vigan. It’s home to a large collection of artifacts and exhibits, including pottery, textiles, and other historical objects.
13. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride: Vigan is known for its horse-drawn carriages, or kalesas, which are a popular mode of transportation in the city. Take a leisurely ride through the streets of Vigan and soak up the charming atmosphere.

Conclusion

Vigan is a truly unique and charming destination that should not be missed. Whether you’re looking for relaxing trip or a rugged adventure, this will be the place for you.

Have you thought about staying in Vigan for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Vigan

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Philippines, such as Baguio, Tagaytay or Iloilo City.