photo essay vigan

A Look Around Vigan, Ilocos Sur [Photo Essay]

written on March 6th, 2017 by Kristiana Rule

Ilocos offers many delights, especially to newbie travelers like us. There were windmills and forts, sand dunes and the preserved corpse of a dictator. But none of it prepared us for the idyllic beauty of Vigan. Calle Crisologo is a long strip of road where you can find the centuries-old houses, the little shops, rustic museums and calesa rides. It shocked us to know that you can also find hotels and even a night club within the houses.

What fascinated me was how the local people lived. To me, a tourist, Vigan was magical. But if you’ve lived there all your life, was it still as charming? I tried to capture it in my photos. I might never know the answer but one thing is for sure: what we experienced was truly one for the books.

*Want to learn more about Vigan, Ilocos Sur? Click here .

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Historic City of Vigan

The above photo is of the Vigan Cathedral and the central plaza. The plaza area has small models of the wonders of the world as well as a map of the Philippines with models of the Filipino World Heritage sites on it.

Vigan is a very quaint city and you can tell it is different from most cities in the Philippines the moment you step off the bus. Many of the streets in the central area do not allow automobiles. Most of the old buildings have not to be renovated so you get the feel of walking through an old Spanish city.

Overview of the Historic City of Vigan

Vigan is one of the most beautiful towns/cities in the Philippines . It is also one of the richest in terms of historical and cultural heritage.

Located in the northern part of the Philippines, Vigan is best known for its heritage village that has preserved Spanish colonial buildings that make you feel like walking into a time warp. The buildings that were built during the 18th century were still intact until today. Indeed, it is the only Hispanic town in the Philippines that remain intact- from the cobblestone streets to the architecture that features the fusion of Philippine, Spanish and Oriental design concepts are sought after by tourists.

From the World Heritage inscription of the Historic City of Vigan :

Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and South-East Asia.

How to Get to Vigan

To go to the historic city of Vigan, you can go to Manila. This is the ideal jump-off point for traveling to Vigan. There are bus routes that travel to Vigan almost every day. The bus ride from Manila to Vigan will take roughly 10 to 11 hours. Another option is to take a flight to the city of Laoag. From Laoag, you can take a bus to Vigan. The ride will be much shorter at 2 to 3 hours.

History of Vigan

Prior to Vigan being named as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines, it as an important coastal trading post during the pre-colonial era. The Chinese junks sailed through the Mestizo River prior to the arrival of the Spanish galleons. Seafaring merchants bartered exotic goods from various parts of Asia with that of gold, beeswax and other products from the Philippines. Eventually, a few Chinese immigrants settled in Vigan.

It was in 1572 when the first Spanish colonial settlement was established in Vigan. In 1595, the first diocese was established and its first bishop was named. More than four centuries later, this historic town was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines. It was also named as the first component city of Ilocos Sur in 2001. Aside from being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vigan is also one of the New Seven Wonders Cities of the World during the selection in 2014.

Highlights of Vigan

• Spanich colonial architecture the cobblestone streets of Calle Crisologo
• Religious processions during festivals or Holy Week
• Numerous cultural activities
• Old churches such as the famed Vigan Cathedral
• Traditional cuisine in Vigan
• Pottery making

The Spanish heritage village is one of the most frequented tourist destination in Vigan. The local government seem to follow the lead of tourists such that tourism is now one of the province’s main source of economy.

Book Your Trip

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Pack the Necessities I carry a lot of travel gear , but I never leave without my travel adapters. This Glamfield one is my favorite: It features three USB chargers, USB-C, and adapts to most plugs anywhere in the world! If you’re looking for a lower profile adapter, however, you can’t go wrong with this one (I carry both!).

3 thoughts on “Historic City of Vigan”

Ah, Vigan! One of my favorite places in the Philippines, so far. Spent four days there with a friend, and we enjoyed it very much. :-)

This is a very good shot of our very own Vigan city. Nice angle dude!

Beautiful photo, saw a tweet about it. I want to put this on my list of must sees.

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13 Vigan Tourist Spots That You Shouldn’t Miss

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vigan is one of the best places to visit if you want to travel back to the Spanish-era. From beautiful ancestral houses to centuries-old churches, you’ll definitely have a fun-filled trip in this historical city. Here are the top Vigan tourist spots you shouldn’t miss when you visit.

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Table of Contents

How To Get To Vigan

From manila.

From Manila, you can ride a bus going to Vigan. Travel time is around 8 hours from Cubao. You can book a flight directly to Laoag and then ride a bus from Laoag to Vigan.

Related: Partas Luxury Bus: Travel to La Union, Vigan, and Laoag from Cubao

From Baguio

If you’re coming from Baguio, you can ride any Partas bus bound to Vigan. Travel time is around 5 to 6 hours!

You can ride buses heading to Vigan. Travel time is around 2 hours.

Important Things To Know About Vigan

ATMs:  There are several banks and ATMs in Vigan. However, it’s best to always carry enough cash.

Languages Spoken:  Most locals can speak Ilocano and are fluent in Tagalog and English.

Festivals on the island: 

• Vigan Town Fiesta (January)  – The town’s fiesta is a week ling celebration composed of parades, carnivals, beauty contests and cultural shows.
• Kannawidan Ilocos (January)  – This festival is a celebration of the culture in the province of Ilocos Sur.
• Viva Vigan Festival of Arts (May)  – You can expect dancing and music during this festival. However, the highlight would be the Tres de Mayo which starts with a mass, then dancing in the Crisologo Street and a kalesa parade.

Best time to visit:  Best months to visit would be from December to February for cooler weather. The months with the least rainfall are November to April.

Getting Around:  To get around La Union, you can choose from the tricycles, jeepneys, and buses.

Vigan Tourist Spots

Calle crisologo.

I remember looking at the photos of well-preserved cobblestone streets and horse-driven kalesas back when I was in Elementary school and adding it to my bucket list. So when my friend, Steffi and I first visited Vigan way back 2016, our first stop was Calle Crisologo. During day time, you’ll find here hotels, souvenir shops, cafes and bars which I think kinda ruins the travel-back-in-time experience. (If I remember correctly, there’s also a funeral parlor here).

If you want to have Calle Crisologo all to yourselves, I suggest waking up at 5:00 AM and go exploring. This is the best time to take photos. You can also rent a bike from Hotel Felicidad for around P150 per hour and go cycling.

And in all honesty, if you want to see ancestral houses, I’d suggest going to Taal Heritage Town in Batangas. The houses there are in top shape. You can even rent one on Airbnb!

Travel Tip: Get up to P2,200 ($44) discount on your first booking on Airbnb when you sign up using my referral link .

• Location: Mena Crisologo St., Meztizo District, Vigan City
• Open 24 hours but most shops close at around 8:00 PM.

Syquia Mansion

Syquia Mansion is a 19th century stone mansion which was once the home of the late President Elpidio Quirino. Decades ago, government meetings were conducted here. But now, it’s a museum which depicts wealthy living during the Spanish period.

• Location: Quirino Boulevard cor. Salcedo Street, Vigan City
• Entrance Fee: P20 per head
• Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed every Tuesday)

Crisologo Museum

Crisologo museum is the ancestral home of the late congressman Floro Crisologo. After his assassination, his wife, Carmeling Crisologo converted their home into a museum in memory of her husband. You can find a lot of antiques, and things the family owns.

• Location:  Liberation Boulevard, Vigan City
• Fees: Free but donations are accepted for the museum’s upkeep
• Open daily from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Villa Angela Heritage House

Unlike Syquia Mansion and Crisologo Museum, the Villa Angela Heritage House is an ancestral home that was turned into a bed and breakfast. You can find here a photo of Tom Cruise with the owner back when he stayed in 1989.

• Location: 26 Quirino Blvd., Vigan City
• Rates start at P3,300+
• Voucher Code : WANDERERA for 15% discount when booking at https://zenrooms.com
• Book discounted rates here

Related Post: Vigan Hotels: 15 Best Accommodations in Vigan City

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Boasting of a view of Vigan City, Bantay Church Bell Tower was built back in 1591 and is one of the province’s oldest buildings. In the local dialect, “bantay” means “to guard” which is what the locals used the tower for. In 1857, it was then converted into a church bell tower.

• Location: It’s 10 to 15 minutes away from Calle Crisologo via tricycle. Back when we went here, we made the mistake of thinking it was near so we walked for nearly 20 minutes under the heat. Haha.
• Fee: It’s up to you. Donations are accepted for the maintenance of the bell tower.
• Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Padre Burgos House

During the Spanish period, there were three Filipino priests known collectively as GomBurZa who were martyred. One of these, Fr. Jose Burgos, once lived in this house. Padre Burgos House is his ancestral home. Now, it’s a museum which houses memorabilia of Father Burgos and his family.

• Location: Burgos, Vigan City

Mindoro Beach of Vigan

People love white sandy beaches. But have you ever seen a black sandy beach? Mindoro Beach of Vigan is jet black in color because of the magnetite and iron ore present in the sand. Swim cautiously since the currents are very strong in these parts.

• Location: Brgy. Mindoro, Vigan City (The beach is pretty far from the city so it’ll be a bit expensive if you do decide to ride a tricycle going there.)

Arce Mansion

Another ancestral home turned into a museum, Arce Mansion is a must-visit if you want to dress up. For a fee, you can dress up like a don, a dona, a gobernadorcillo or a Chinese immigrant.

• Location: 87 Quirino Boulevard cor. Abaya Street, Vigan City
• Fee: P150 for the costumes; P1,500 per person for the costume, photoshoot, dinner, and prints (good for a minimum of 5 people)

As a writer, I adore Cafe Leona. This cafe is the ancestral home of the poetess Leona Florentino. Their bagnet and longganisa are a must-try. You can find this place at Calle Crisologo.

Abel-Iloko Weaving Community

Beloved for its quality, Vigan’s traditional woven product the Abel cloth is made at the Abel-Iloko weaving community. You can visit an Abel showroom and learn more about the craft as well as buy some woven products like table napkins, blouses, blankets, shawls, and placemats for souvenirs. Rowilda’s Loom Weaving factory is the most famous in Vigan.

• Location: Brgy. Camangaan, Vigan
• Business Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Factory: Weaving activity starts at 8 a.m.) / 7:30 a.m. to evening (Showroom: closing time varies)

Baluarte Zoo

If you’re traveling with kids, you might want to check this place out. Owned by Chavit Singson, a local politician, Baluarte zoo houses several animals and often has wildlife shows. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella, it’s hard to walk under the harsh sun.

If you are an animal lover, it’s best not to come here. I was honestly traumatized by Singson’s collection of dead animals he hunted at the Safari Gallery.

• Location: Quirino Boulevard, Tamag, Vigan City, 2700 Ilocos Sur
• Business hours : 7: 00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Admission : Free, but there is a Php 50 fee for the e-cab tour around the zoo.

Pagburnayan

Aside from weaving, Vigan also boasts jar making. You can stop by the Pagburnayan Jar Making and watch earthenware jars come to life from a potter’s hand. If you’re lucky, you can also try making one. It’s a magical experience. Don’t forget to buy a few jars for souvenirs!

• Location: Liberation Blvd, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
• Fee: Free but donations are accepted.

Hidden Garden

This not so hidden place is best place to grab a scrumptious meal. Aside from the food, you can also have a look around and buy plants from the garden. There are a lot of ornamental plants and bonsai.

• Location: Katipunan St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Where to Stay in Vigan?

Looking for accommodations in Vigan? Here’s a list for you :  Vigan Hotels: 15 Best Accommodations in Vigan City

Airbnb Vigan

Aside from hotels and resorts, you can also opt to stay at an Airbnb .

Get your P2,200 ($44) Airbnb discount here!

Responsible Travel Tips

When traveling to one place, make sure you practice responsible tourism. Here are some tips to do so.

1. Respect the environment

Don’t litter. Please hold onto your trash until you find a garbage can. Don’t bring home the sand or any seashell. Leave them where they belong. Missing seashells can have potential detrimental environmental impacts.

Related:  16 Eco-Friendly Travel Products for the Earth-Loving You

2. Avoid single-use plastic

Bring your eco bag and refuse single-use plastic.

3. Shop local

Keep the traditional crafts alive and support local artisans. Buy from them. And try not to haggle, P20 may seem small to you but it can mean a lot to them.

4. Always ask permission

Be sure to ask for permission first when taking photos or videos especially when it comes to children

What to Pack for

• Eco-friendly Reusable Water Bottle
• Light Rain Jacket (especially from June to November) 
• T-shirts, a Nice top, and a Long-sleeved Shirt
• Power Adapter
• Universal Waterproof Phone Case
• Packing Cubes
• Microfiber Towel
• Travel Insurance
• Sneakers, and Some Flats
• Reusable Straw and Reusable Bag (no to single-use plastic!)

Related Article:  The Only Travel Packing List You’ll Ever Need (Trust Me)

Our Camera Gear

• Mirrorless Camera: Fujifilm XT3
• Lenses: Fujifilm Fujinon kit lens (18-55mm) | Fujinon 35mm f2 | Fujinon 50mm f2
• Drone: DJI Mavic Pro 2
• GoPro: GoPro Hero Black 7
• Power Bank: Romoss Powerbank
• Camera Backpack: Case Logic Camera and Laptop Backpack
• Monopod: Ifootage Cobra 2 a180
• Mic: Rode VideoMicro
• Gimbal: Zhiyun Weebill-S

You might also like…

• Palaui, Laoag & Vigan Travel Guide: A 4D/3N Itinerary
• La Paz Sand Dunes Laoag Travel Guide: Why Visit?
• Ilocos Norte Tourist Spots: 9 Places That You Should Visit
• Affordable Laoag Transient House: Better Than Any of the Laoag Hotels
• Vigan Hotels: 15 Best Accommodations in Vigan City

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An Architectural Tour of Vigan’s Heritage Village

• March 14, 2023
• Tourism Blog

Vigan’s Heritage Village is a town in the Philippines known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Visitors can take a walking tour to see the beautiful Calle Crisologo, Plaza Salcedo, and Mestizo District. Other highlights include the Baluarte, St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral, and Syquia Mansion. Don’t miss trying the local delicacies and taking a kalesa ride.

In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through Vigan’s Heritage Village, exploring its intricate architecture and rich history. From ancient houses to grandiose churches, we will discover how Vigan has managed to preserve its heritage while embracing modernity. So join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Vigan’s architectural wonders!

Vigan’s Heritage Village

Vigan’s Heritage Village is a World Heritage Site located in the heart of the Ilocos region in the Philippines. Spanning 4 hectares, the village has been carefully preserved with original structures from previous centuries still intact. The town showcases a unique Spanish-Filipino style of architecture known for its cobblestone streets and colorful painted houses.

Vigan’s Heritage Village preserves and celebrates many historical sites such as museums , churches, ancestral houses, backyard industries, antique stores and even handicraft workshops. Thanks to preservation efforts, visitors may take pleasure in exploring an authentic colonial atmosphere while learning about Vigan’s rich cultural heritage.

Architectural highlights of the Heritage Village

Vigan, the Heritage Village in Ilocos Sur captivates its visitors with its stunning and well-preserved colonial-era architectures. These beautiful architectures have become true testaments to Philippine history and culture.

Calle Crisologo

Vigan’s Calle Crisologo is widely known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, where locals and tourists alike can explore. With its cobblestone path and houses made from wood, stone and red bricks with intricate designs that have withstood the test of time, anyone who walks through this street will instantly be taken aback by its beauty.

Most of the houses are also adorned with ancestral memorabilia, suggesting a deeply rooted Vigan history that exists in every corner of the street. Calle Crisologo provides visitors a glimpse into Vigan’s past while giving them a unique type of experience they can treasure forever.

Key buildings and landmarks

Vigan is renowned for its historical district and one of the most iconic places within it is Calle Crisologo. This cobblestoned street, lined with old Spanish-era houses, is a peek into Vigan’s past – the cozy cafes that still use kerosene lamps, heritage churches, an old ancestral house and monuments decorating the street help to shape Vigan’s beautiful and captivating atmosphere. Be it religious or residential structures, each and every building or landmark in Calle Crisologo has a unique tale to tell and contributes to Vigan’s rich culture and history.

Address : H99Q+X84, Crisologo, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : 24hrs

Plaza Salcedo

It is a piece of cultural history with its architecture and structure that dates back to the Spanish occupation of Vigan in 1572. Plaza Salcedo has an oval shape with a center platform where a bronze statue of Gat Jose de La Cruz Salcedo, the Viceroy of Vigan, sits atop it.

There are two baluartes (main towers) on either side of the platform and native ornamental plants edge the outer walls which have become home to some Vigan souvenir shops. This place resonates with the Spanish days of old and stands proud as a symbol of Vigan’s rich culture and history.

Vigan’s Plaza Salcedo is the city’s main square, thought to have been named after Vigan’s Spanish Lieutenant Governor Gabriel Salcedo. It is located in the heart of Vigan and is a popular tourist destination with unique buildings and landmarks.

The centerpiece of the plaza is Vigan’s famous 270-year old Hilong-hilong, a highly decorated fountain from which Vigan’s original name of Ciudad Fernandina was derived. Around the fountain are majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral and Vigan City Hall built in 1690 and 1786 respectively.

Address : H9GQ+528, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : Monday – Sunday, 7:30PM – 8PM

Famous landmarks and buildings

Vigan is one of the most iconic and well-known landmarks in the world. It is known for its unique blend of cultures, including Chinese and Spanish-influenced architecture, cobblestone pathways, and a variety of historical sites.

Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo

Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo is a famous destination located in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. It is a zoo and theme park that provides a safe natural environment to various wild animals,many of which are located nowhere else in the Philippines.

With over 100 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and insects, Baluarte offers visitors an opportunity to engage with nature as well as explore Vigan’s rich cultural heritage. The resort features unique cultural attractions such as Vigan’s historical landmarks, preserved cobblestone roads, traditional Spanish-style architectures and resilient folklore.

Address : H92G+GV7, Quirino Boulevard, Tamag, Vigan City, 2700 Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : Monday – Sunday, 8:30AM – 6PM

Phone : (077) 722 7186

St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral

St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral is a famously known landmark in Vigan City, Philippines. It has been standing for over four hundred years and remains as an important part of Vigan’s history. As the cathedral of Vigan, it is both culturally and religiously significant and founded by Spanish missionary Fray Joaquin de Zaragoza in 1641.

Since its construction, the cathedral has undergone various renovations to keep its infrastructure intact while still maintaining its old-world feel with the brilliant exterior designs such as gothic architecture or the ‘earthquake baroque’ style.

Address : Burgos St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : Monday- Sunday, 7AM – 5AM

For more information about the mass schedule, click here .

Bantay Bell Tower

Vigan’s Bantay Bell Tower is an iconic and recognizable landmark in the Ilocos region. Located at Vigan’s northernmost tip, the tower has graced Vigan’s skyline for centuries, remaining a symbol of Vigan’s rich heritage and history.

Built by the Spaniards between 1590-1600 to guard Vigan from invasions, the bell also served as a way of signifying noon and alerting people to religious services. This tower is one of Vigan’s most important landmarks, frequently visited by both locals and tourists alike.

Address : 003 Rizal St, Bantay, Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : Monday – Saturday, 8AM – 5PM / Sunday 5:30AM – 5:30PM

Phone :   +639164520623

Plaza Burgos

Located in Vigan, Plaza Burgos is a historical landmark that is widely admired by both locals and tourists. It was named after Father José Burgos, who is a famous Filipino martyr and priest. This plaza was built in 1686 and it serves as a public gathering place for the Vigan citizens.

Some of the attractions include a park, a fountain, and statues representing Vigan’s grand history. One of Vigan’s oldest structures can also be found here – the Vigan Cathedral which dates back to 1590.

Address : H9FQ+PG6, Florentino St, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Pagburnayan

Pagburnayan is a unique area that produces jars known as “burnay”. Crafted by experienced artisans, these jars are made from local clay and burnished with stones to give the characteristic smooth finish.

Craftspeople at Pagburnayan have used their traditional methods for jar-making for hundreds of years and still use them today. The perfect level of molding combined with Earthy tones makes burnay an eye-catching product.

Address : 48 Gomez St, Vigan City, 2700 Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : Monday – Sunday, 8AM – 5PM

Phone : +639778544339

Chapel by the Ruins

The Vigan chapel, known as Chapel by the Ruins, is a historical attraction in Vigan City, Philippines. A reminder of Vigan’s grandeur before the era of Spanish colonization, this chapel was constructed in the 1880s atop a centuries-old structure discovered by Dr. Juan de Salcedo in 1572.

Located at Calle Plaridel and facing Vigan’s Plaza Alfonso XIII, Chapel by the Ruins still stands proudly today and stands as a short walk from central Vigan that celebrates a taste of Vigan’s colonial past with its distinctive facade of red brick façade.

Address : H9JR+9Q2 Church Bell Tower, Bantay, Lalawigan ng Ilocos Sur

For more information, click here .

Where to Eat in Vigan

Vigan is located in the province of Ilocos Sur and is a beloved tourist destination for its rich Spanish heritage and culture. After soaking in Vigan’s sights and sounds, visitors might just be looking for a place to satisfy their appetites. Luckily, Vigan has some truly magnificent dining options to offer its many travelers.

Local delicacies to try

Another thing that makes Vigan a popular destination for foodies is its delicious local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try local delicacies that you should definitely sample during your visit:

• Empanada – a savory pastry filled with ground meat, vegetables, and egg. The crust is made from rice flour and annatto oil, giving it its distinctive orange color.
• Longganisa – a type of sausage made from ground pork marinated in vinegar and garlic. It’s usually served for breakfast with garlic rice and fried egg.
• Bagnet – deep-fried pork belly that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s often paired with tomatoes, onions, and bagoong (fermented fish paste).
• Sinanglao – a soup made from beef tripe, liver, heart, and other internal organs cooked in a broth flavored with ginger and onion. It’s typically eaten as a midday snack.
• Chichacorn – crunchy corn kernels that are roasted or fried until crispy. They come in different flavors like garlic, cheese, and barbecue.
• Pinakbet – a vegetable stew made from mixed vegetables like eggplant, bitter melon, squash, okra, tomatoes, and onions sautéed in bagoong (fermented fish paste).
• Crispy Dinuguan – a twist on the traditional dinuguan (pork blood stew) where the meat is fried until crispy before being added to the stew. It’s served with puto (steamed rice cake) or bread.

Restaurants and cafes to visit

Vigan City is known for its rich cultural heritage, but it’s also home to some amazing restaurants and cafes. Whether you’re looking for traditional Filipino dishes or international cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Here are five must-visit spots:

This charming cafe is located inside a historic Spanish colonial house and serves up delicious coffee drinks, pastries, and light bites. It’s the perfect spot to relax after exploring the city.

Address : 1 Crisologo, Brgy 2, Vigan City, 2700 Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : Monday – Sunday, 10AM – 12AM

Phone : +639228791833

Kusina Felicitas

For authentic Ilocano cuisine, head to Kusina Felicitas. Their specialties include bagnet (crispy pork belly) and pinakbet (a vegetable stew), both of which are must-tries.

Address : 1 Bonifacio, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : Monday – Sunday, 6:30AM – 10PM

Phone : (077) 637 8229

If you’re in the mood for grilled meats, check out Uno Grille. They have a wide selection of skewers featuring everything from chicken to seafood.

Address : Grandpa’s Inn, 1 Bonifacio, Vigan City, Lalawigan ng Ilocos Sur

Opening Hours : Monday – Saturday, 8AM – 9PM / Sunday, 8AM – 10PM

Phone :   +639177990121

Vigan is a beautiful heritage village in the Philippines known for its unique architecture. An architectural tour of Vigan, one can witness its Spanish-influenced houses and other structures, many of which still remain as they did hundreds of years ago.

It is an excellent place to visit to gain appreciation for Vigan’s past, and discover new respect for the culture and history of this picturesque village. An architectural tour of Vigan certainly paints a picture of how people lived their lives long ago.

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Travel World Heritage

Guide to UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Historic City of Vigan – UNESCO WHS Review

Before talking about Vigan directly, we need to go back, all the way back to 1521. If you are a fan of the Civilization series of games, or paid attention in history class, you’d know this is when Magellan arrived in the central Philippine island of Cebu. He had the first mass here and subsequently went on to live happily ever after in Spain. Just kidding, he was killed. Nonetheless, his expedition made it back, thus crediting Spain with the first circumnavigation of the globe and giving them a +2 movement to all sea vessels for the rest of time. Super broken buff if you ask me. Civ references aside, Spain did go on to colonize the Philippines under the New Spain Viceroy and become an important link of Spain’s Empire. Enter Vigan.

Vigan City is noted for being one of the best examples of a Spanish colonial town in Asia. Established in the 16th century, it was an important trading post linking the Pacific coast towns of New Spain with the Philippines and on to the rest of the Spanish domain. Its buildings combine Filipino, Ilocano and Chinese influences with Spanish design. My Ilocano friend tells me that pre-WW2, Vigan-like towns were a dime a dozen and being a Spanish colonial town wouldn’t have been seen as special. However, Vigan is one of the only well preserved ones post Japan’s devastating withdraw from the islands.

Walking around Vigan is truly special. What made this site more memorable was being shown around by a fellow Unesco World Heritage Site fanatic. Small things that go otherwise unnoticed become highlights. I probably would have made a fuss about Jollibee being placed on one of the 4 sides of the town square if Bernard hadn’t pointed out that this is traditionally where the market place goes, thus the most appropriate place to have it. Vigan reminded me a lot of Guanajuato, where knowing the history and being able to interact with the locals without a language barrier really makes a difference. But how does Vigan stand up compared to other UNESCO WHS? Let’s find out.

Evaluation:

1) Completeness and Originality (13 out of 15):

2) Extensiveness of the Site (12 out of 15):

3) Cultural Significance (17 out of 25):

4) Personal Impact (8 out of 15):

5) Logistics (3 out of 10):

The Philippines has no major train transport outside of Metro Manila. As you may already know, this is a big no-no in my book as train is my favorite way to get around. Furthermore, the bus from Manila to Vigan is in the neighborhood of 10 hours. The buses aren’t terrible, but having only the settings of ‘freeze’ and ‘off’ is pretty uncomfortable. Luckily, I had my jacket since it is winter in Korea, but everyone else would be F’d. The closest airport to Vigan is Laoag International which is still a good 3 hour+ bus ride to Vigan. Unfortunately, this isn’t a place you “pass by.” You have to actively try to get here.

6) Uniqueness (10 out of 20):

Combined Score: 63/100

Is this a good score? Find out how it compares with other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in  our rankings .

Curious how the scores are derived? Check out the  scoring criteria .

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The Heritage Village of Vigan | 400 Years and Beyond

• 13834 Views
• February 11th, 2014
• in Destinations , Philippines
• Mass tourism is sadly among the most noticeable threats. While it rakes in money to sustain livelihood and funding for restoration/fortification, the hordes of tourists that come each day always leave footprints of pressure on its delicate buildings, tons of garbage, added heat and changing ambience.
• Motorized vehicles such as motorcycles, cars and even delivery trucks are permitted to take the intersecting streets of Calle Crisologo. Can you imagine the pressure it takes on its age-old stone pavements?  
• Expensive hotels are mushrooming anywhere within the heritage village. The engineering works during the construction normally create geological effects around it. Given the current state of global warming, how strong is our earth still to withstand all of these?  
• Some stores within the heritage village but outside Calle Crisologo have small electronic welcome marquees. Stick-out signs, tarpaulin and plastic promo banners of softdrinks and telcos are indiscriminately present.  
• Take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). Exit to Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).
• In SCTEX, drive straight to the newly opened Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX). This will lead you to the exit in Paniqui Tarlac. As of Dec. 23, 2013 TPLEX terminates in Paniqui but once completed, it will end in Rosario, Pangasinan.
• Take the McArthur Highway passing through Urdaneta in Pangasinan.
• Follow the national highway that leads to La Union. You will drive past Bauang, San Fernando and Candon.
• Further up north, you will arrive in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.
• Take the bus from Cubao Terminal to Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Bus lines such as Victory and Partas regularly ply this route. Alternatively, there are northbound buses in Manila area such as Florida Bus Line.
• Fly to Laoag Airport. Check the web for schedule and tariff.
• Drive or take the bus from Laoag to Vigan. This should just take you about 2 hours travel time.
• If you are taking the poblacion, especially around the heritage village, I strongly recommend walking around. This helps us save on the pressure and vibration of traffic on its age-old structures.
• Tricycles (rickshaws) and calesas (horse-drawn buggy) are widely available.

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[…] of imposed industrialization, climate change, political dramas and mass tourism, how long will the Heritage City of Vigan survive?   The hordes of tourists crisscrossing the cobblestone alleyways and swarming in and out […]

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15 Best VIGAN TOURIST SPOTS (Ilocos Sur)

Known for its perfectly-preserved Spanish Colonial architecture and culture, Vigan, Ilocos Sur easily became one of the country’s tourism giants. Inviting millions of tourists not only from different parts of the country but the whole world!

This undeniably charming beauty of Vigan is exactly the reason why it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites , all the more reason for you to visit it! Well, who wouldn’t want to experience traveling back in time, right? Imagine yourself at night walking along the cobblestone streets of Vigan City with rustic mansions and horse-drawn carriages or kalesa around you. And by the streets, you’ll spot local vendors offering some of the best Filipino dishes of all time such as Ilocos Empanada, Bagnet , and more. Ah, what a beautiful experience indeed. Well, I guess it’s your lucky day today because we’ll be exploring the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, and its nearby provinces!

Are you ready? I sure hope you are because this will be one of the most memorable trips of your life. Let’s go!

1. Calle Crisologo

The first one on the list and probably the ultimate destination in Vigan City is the iconic Calle Crisologo which beautifully embodies the historic Spanish Colonial Era in the Philippines. With streets filled with timeless cobblestones, lines of rustic mansions, tungsten lamps, and horse-drawn carriages or kalesas dwelling on the streets, it will amazingly feel like you’re traveling back to the olden times when our national heroes like Dr. Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, and Apolinario Mabini lived.

Although Calle Crisologo only spans a short 500-meter distance, walking along this historic half-kilometer street will certainly be the highlight of your trip. Well, on top of the fact that Calle Crisologo is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Oh, and aside from admiring all the breathtaking attractions of Calle Crisologo, it’s also the best time to try out some of Vigan, Ilocos Sur’s finest treats and delicacies. There are lots of souvenir shops and local vendors stationed along Calle Crisologo selling all-time favorite snacks like Ilocos Empanada, Bagnet, and more! If I were you, I wouldn’t miss this chance to buy merienda and lots of pasalubong! CHECK THE BEST HOTELS IN VIGAN HERE

2. Bantay Church Bell Tower

Our next destination is considered one of the most significant historical and religious symbols of Ilocos Sur. The Bantay Church Bell Tower was built in 1591 and was originally intended to be the watchtower of the town of Bantay, Ilocos Sur.

For many centuries, the tower watched over the safety of the people living in Bantay and Vigan. It’s strategically located on top of a hill so soldiers would be able to have a great vantage point over the towns. Well, that also meant that tourists would have a spectacular view of the landscape today! It’s even believed in history that the Bantay Church Bell Tower was the favorite date spot of the famous couple Diego and Gabriela Silang!

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Today, Bantay Church Bell Tower serves as the bell tower of Saint Augustine Parish Church, which are noticeably detached from each other. This is because the bell tower was constructed way before the church! Interesting, right? Anyway, make sure to take lots and lots of amazing pictures during your visit here to Bantay Church Bell Tower because it will indeed become one of the highlights of your Vigan adventure.

3. Vigan Cathedral

Another historically and religiously significant attraction in Vigan City is the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle or simply, the Vigan Cathedral. The reason why this cathedral became famous is that it’s a major part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vigan City. Also, it serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia, which covers the whole province of Ilocos Sur .

Tourists, especially pilgrims, make sure that they are able to visit and offer prayers during their Vigan City adventure. The Vigan Cathedral in itself is already a must-see attraction because of the architectural brilliance applied to the structure. It has an Earthquake Baroque style which also beautifully highlights the large buttresses on its side. Don’t forget to take some nice pictures as your remembrance!

4. National Museum of the Philippines | Ilocos Museum Regional Complex

If you’re interested in knowing more about Ilocos province’s rich culture and history, then dropping by the Ilocos Museum Regional Complex in Burgos, Vigan City should be the perfect choice for you. The museum complex is managed by the National Museum of the Philippines so everything is for free, better make the most out of it! There are two (2) major attractions here in the museum complex which are both prominent figures in our country’s national history. And they are both proud Ilokanos! First, is the Burgos Museum which holds the collection of Padre Jose Burgos’ life memorabilia, one of the 3 martyrs GomBurZa priests. Burgos Museum is actually the ancestral house of Padre Burgos so everything you’ll see around the museum were personal belongings and artifacts by the martyr priest himself.

The other one pays tribute to the 6th President of the Philippines, Elpidio Quirino. What was once the Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail turned into a special exhibit featuring some of President Quirino’s important memorabilia and historical items. Probably one of the highlights of this museum is the spectacular replica of President Quirino’s room featuring some of the actual clothes he wore during his time as president. I’m sure you’ll find it interesting wandering around the Ilocos Museum Regional Complex especially if you’re a certified history buff!

5. Chapel by The Ruins

Ah, there’s really something special about old and vintage buildings that makes us fall in love, right? Well, prepare to fall in love once you reach our next destination, Chapel by The Ruins! This serene and solemn place is actually located beside the Saint Augustine Parish Church, the same church where the famous Bantay Church Bell Tower is stationed.

Photo of TripAdvisor

It’s a really small outdoor chapel featuring stone benches and altars where you can quietly meditate and offer your prayers. Tourists visiting the church are usually invited to spend some time at the Chapel by The Ruins, especially after holy masses.

6. Pagburnayan Jar Factory

Diving deeper into the rich culture and traditions of Ilocos, you’ll discover the beautiful practice of making Pagburnayan or Burnay Jars. Originating in the small village of Pagburnayan in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, local potters utilized a hundred-year-old process of making durable clay jars.

Photo from Tourist Portal PH

These villagers mastered the art and craft of baking, kneading, and molding clay into perfection. It’s also a good thing that these beautiful Burnay Jars are still being promoted thanks to the thriving tourism industry of Vigan. So make sure to visit a Pagburnayan Jar Factory during your Vigan adventure to learn more about making Burnay Jars and even buy lots of pasalubong for your loved ones.

7. Plaza Burgos

Up next, if you just want to sit back, relax, and watch the beautiful culture of Vigan City unfold right before your eyes, then the best place you should visit is Plaza Burgos. This important landmark pays tribute yet again to Padre Jose Burgos, one of the three Filipino priest martyrs, the GomBurZa. Visitors are also encouraged to wander around, learn more about Ilocos Sur’s grand history, meet wonderful people, and take awesome pictures!

Photo of Wikimedia Commons

The park is open for everyone and one of its wonderful highlights is the street vendors selling delicious Ilocos Empanada! Well, nothing tastes better than how the locals do it, right? So might as well give it a try!

8. Arce Mansion

If you want to dive even deeper into the rich and colorful history of Ilocos Sur, then visiting the famous Arce Mansion in Vigan City would be the best choice! Arce Mansion will give you an all-in experience of living during the vintage times of the Spanish and American Colonial periods. The mansion features authentic items and memorabilia from the periods and they also have excellent staff offering to give you a full-course service of traditional Filipino and Ilokano cuisine.

The catch? You have to choose a costume to wear during the whole experience! You can choose to dress like an Ilustrado, Prayle, Gobernadorcillo, or even a simple Indio. Classy, right? Make sure to take awesome pictures as a remembrance of your visit!

9. Syquia Mansion

Another spectacular chance to dive deeper into Vigan City’s history and culture is by visiting the Syquia Mansion. The entire mansion in itself is already a precious gem of Philippine History as it presents the perfectly preserved Bahay-na-Bato architecture which was dominant during the Spanish Colonial Era. Inside the Syquia Mansion, you’ll find breathtaking collections and exhibits of significant family heirlooms and artifacts of powerful Ilokano families, specifically the Ang Co family.

Photo of Tripadvisor

Visitors can also pose for pictures while wandering around the museum and inspect the grand traditional rooms inside the mansion. The best part? Entrance tickets only cost as low as P75 for regular adult customers!

10. Mindoro Beach

After exploring all the historical attractions of Vigan, it’s finally time to relax for a bit and focus our attention on the province’s natural wonders, right? On that note, our next destination is no other than Vigan City’s famous Mindoro Beach! Also known as the “Black Sand Beach of Vigan”, this laidback and relaxing beach destination faces the calm and dark blue waters of the West Philippine Sea. And as its iconic nickname suggests, Mindoro Beach is known for its beautiful, fine, black sands.

Photo by TripAdvisor

What many tourists and locals chase in Mindoro Beach is the mesmerizing sunset as dawn arrives. You’ll notice more and more people get to the beach, unpack their things on the rented cottages, and simply enjoy their time as the sun graciously comes down. Surely, visiting Mindoro Beach will be one of the highlights of your trip especially if you want to have a breath of fresh ocean air!

11. Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone

Ah, right after a quick and relaxing aide trip to Mindoro Beach, it’s time yet again to take on another adrenaline-pumping adventure! Are you ready? Let’s go to the Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone! This famous attraction is not exactly located within Vigan City but it’s relatively near so adding it to one of your side trips to Ilocos Sur isn’t a bad idea at all. Nestled along the borders of Bantay and Santa, ISAZ features lots of extremely fun and exciting activities for everyone!

Photo by Ilocos Sur ADventure Zone

If you’re an outdoor lover, I’m sure that you’ll have the best time engaging with rappelling activities, kayaking, zipline, and even Zorb Balls. There are also other watersports activities held on Abra River for extreme junkies out there! Oh, and aside from enjoying these extreme activities, visitors can also admire the architectural beauty of the Old Quirino Bridge and take awesome pictures while they’re at it.

12. Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo

Up next, who wouldn’t want to meet exotic wild animals up close and even have the chance of safely interacting with them? Ah, that’s exactly what we’ll do when we visit the Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo of Vigan City! This huge zoological park covering an enormous area of 100 hectares is owned by Chavit Singson, one of the biggest names in Philippine politics and the business industry. Baluarte is often dubbed as the “Home of the Big Cats in Vigan” because one of the highlights of the zoo is the majestic Bengal Tigers and many more animals such as sea lions, iguanas, pythons, and other species of birds and reptiles.

As years go by, Baluarte Zoo keeps on expanding and developing more attractions while taking care of these wild animals. The best part of visiting Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo is that it has no entrance fee! Anyone and everyone can spend their day around the 100-hectare park and even enjoy a picnic with their loved ones while safely admiring the beautiful wild animals.

READ THE BLOG POST: Baluarte Zoo in Ilocos Sur

13. Crisologo Museum

After visiting the Home of the Big Cats of Vigan, we’re now off to explore yet another important piece of Ilocos Sur’s exceptional history, the Crisologo Museum. Inside the museum, you’ll find excellent artifacts, memorabilia, and pieces owned by the Crisologo Family, one of the province’s most prominent families in history.

Photo by Vigan Paradores

Wandering around the two-story museum will make you feel like you’re traveling back in time as you admire several antique items and furniture. It would really be a fun and fulfilling experience for everyone, especially history buffs out there!

14. RG Jar Factory

As we’re nearing the end of our ultimate Vigan adventure, let me bring you to one of the best places to buy a souvenir from the province. Any guesses? Ah, that’s right! We’re heading to RG Jar Factory, one of the few authentic places left where tourists can witness how Burnay Jars are made and even try making their own. This is actually one of the fun and educational experiences you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Vigan. Here at RG Jar Factory, you’ll be amazed at how expert potters are able to turn simple clay into amazing pieces of artwork. There really are lessons on how to make these so better make the most out of it! Aside from that, there are also souvenir shops and vendors inside where you can buy delicious Ilokano snacks like the one and only Ilocos Empanada!

15. Have a Gastronomical Feast Featuring Ilocano Cuisine!

Ah, finally! You can say that we absolutely saved the best for last. After exploring and discovering Vigan’s most precious gems, our trip surely wouldn’t be complete without having a well-deserved gastronomical feast of Ilocos’ finest treats and delicacies, right? Now, there’s a countless list of must-try restaurants and cafès in Vigan City. And they all serve mouthwatering Ilocano dishes featuring some of the all-time favorites like Bagnet, Vigan Longganisa, Pinakbet, Sinanglao, and many more!

Photo from Pinterest

So if you’re planning to have a feast and taste some of these amazing dishes, here’s a list of our recommended restaurants that you should visit. Make sure to drop by Irene’s Vigan Empanada, Calle Brewery, 1995 Studio Cafè, and of course, the iconic Casa Lourdes located at Calle Crisologo itself!

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The Love that Saved a Town: Historic Town of Vigan

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Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and South-East Asia.

on this subject: WHC documentation about this site

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Travel Through Paradise In The Philippines

Travel philippines, travel through paradise, ..and discover the philippines..., calle crisologo - a journey through time in vigan, ilocos sur.

If you find yourself passing through the beautiful Vigan City in the Ilocos Sur province, make sure you pay a visit to its most popular attraction – Calle Crisologo. This Spanish colonial heritage village will serve as a time machine, taking you back into Vigan's rich history shaped by the Manila-Acapulco trade.

Immerse yourself in the charm of Calle Crisologo. By day, browse antique shops and museums nestled in old Spanish houses. At night, the cobblestone street glows with enchanting lamps, inviting you to savor delicious local cuisine in a romantic setting...

Exploring Calle Crisologo During the Day

Calle Crisologo is truly worth visiting both day and night, with each period offering a unique charm. During the day, you'll enjoy browsing through the numerous antique souvenir shops and small museums like the Father Burgos Museum and the Crisologo Museum. These are housed within the Spanish heritage buildings lining the car-free street. Take a ride in a Spanish-style horse carriage called a 'kalesa' for a delightful tour of Vigan's rich cultural heritage.

The well-preserved houses along Calle Crisologo (also known as Mena Crisologo) were once ancestral homes of prominent figures. Wealthy families prospered here during the period of Filipino-Chinese trading, dealing in products like abel cloth, gold, indigo, and tobacco. Admire the thick walls, huge doors, red-tiled roofs, and grand staircases of these structures – they make fantastic backdrops for your photos. Many homes are now shops, restaurants, museums, and inns, ensuring a vibrant and enjoyable day within the Calle Crisologo area.

Calle Crisologo's Enchanting Nights

As darkness falls, Calle Crisologo transforms into a scene of captivating beauty. The picturesque cobblestone streets are illuminated by aesthetic lamps, creating a magical atmosphere you have to experience firsthand. This is the perfect time for a delicious dinner at one of Calle Crisologo's charming restaurants – Café Leona is a popular choice with outdoor seating for al fresco dining. If you can stay long enough to savor the nighttime ambiance, don't miss out!

Understanding the Names "Calle Crisologo" and "Heritage Village"

Calle Crisologo has several names including Mena Crisologo and 'Heritage Village'. It earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1999, hence the designation 'Heritage Village'. Mena Crisologo honors a respected Ilocano writer and politician, Mena Pecson Crisologo (1844-1927), who was born in Vigan.

If you find yourself near the City of Vigan, exploring Calle Crisologo is an absolute must-do activity. Its historical significance, stunning architecture, and unique ambiance make it a highlight of any trip to this region of the Philippines.

Click here for more things to do in Vigan City.

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ILOCOS SUR | The Pagburnayan of Vigan City

Getting down and dirty is part of visiting Vigan City. But get your minds off the gutter, I’m talking about getting literally dirty, like molding a clay, spinning it and creating something beautiful. Well, maybe not that last part, it takes a very skilled hand to achieve that. We were at Vigan’s Pagburnayan , the iconic pottery place in the city. Besides Calle Crisologo , this place probably clocks in as the most photographed Instagrammed spot in the city.

Its name, Pagburnayan , comes from the root word burnay . It refers to the hand-crafted earthenware pots made from Vigan. Bantog clays, these are called. They’re dug from the western barangays of the city. I once asked a cuchero who was touring me around where they would get more of these, if supplies ran out. Impossible, he says, they’ve been sourcing their materials from that area since Chinese immigrants came to Vigan City and established the craft.

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Bigueños claim that these kinds of jars are much hardier than other terra cotta products found in the market. During colonial period, these are used for tea drinking, but now, it is regarded as an excellent container to ferment brown sugar, basi (sugarcane wine), sugarcane vinegar, and isdang bagoong (fish sauce). They went further, claiming that products fermented using a burnay jar actually tastes better.

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The process of making a burnay jar starts off by combining locally-sourced clay with a type of fine sand called anay. The two are mixed on a circular pit trampled over by a carabao. They say that this is one of the factors why these jars are much more robust than ordinary ones. To demonstrate, they even threw one on the ground, it didn’t break.

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After the compound has been properly mixed, they then proceed on breaking and kneading it in smaller portions—taking out small stones and what-nots along the way. The size depends on the product they’re making, the bigger it is, the larger the portion, of course. These are then queued for the spinner to mold.

And this is where the fun begins. It takes two individuals to form a burnay jar. A glob of clay is placed on a platform with a manually-pedaled rotating disk. The first guy spins the base with his foot while another starts to form the jar with his hands. It looks easy, but it takes real craft to make a well-formed pottery.

Once the jar is formed, it is then left to dry a bit before being placed inside massive kilns. These are so large, one of the burnayan places we visited refers to theirs as The Dragon . To power these, stacks and stacks of wood kindles are used. It takes a bit of time to cook these jars, definitely longer than we can wait for.

But not all jars are made to be jars. Some are meant to be broken. Literally broken. After being cooked, these burnays are smashed into pieces, which is probably quite weird for those not in the know. These broken jars, it turns out, are used for salt and fishpond beddings.

Contrary to popular Vigan kalesa tours, there are actually two major burnayans in Vigan City. The more popular one, Ruby’s Pottery , is run by Fidel Antiporda Go , a National Commission for Culture and the Arts awardee for a Manlilikha ng Bayan title (National Folk Artist, but not to be confused with being a National Artist ). This guy is pretty cool, always chatting and joking with the visitors of his burnayan , never asking for anything in return.

The second one, RG Jar Factory , sits just right across the street from the former. According to our cuchero guide, this pagburnayan used to be the more popular of the two until they start to ask for donations. The guides, not wanting to impose fees upon their guests, started to bring folks over to Ruby’s instead.

To be fair to this pagburnayan , during the two times I visited it, they never did forcefully ask me for a donation. They did, however, nicely reminded me on both times to drop some. Both these pottery shops are just a couple of blocks away from the diminutive Simbaan a Bassit along Liberation Boulevard.

Visiting Vigan’s Pagburnayan, I am reminded of an old story we were told when we were kids, about how everyone of us is made from clay; taken from the ground, molded into form, baked in the oven and blown with a magical breath, giving us life. So it probably was in Vigan City, albeit the other way around—the clay, the one breathing life into this once small colonial town.

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thumbs up for one great site! more power always online ;-)

Thank you :)

Open hours po?

HI Anonymous, I'm not really certain of their exact business hours, but I'm pretty certain that they're already open by 9AM

hi , is their someone I could contact who is related to the artist ? i just need it for a project , i was wondering if you could help me.

Hi, sorry I also don't have Ruby Pottery's contact number. If ever you were able to contact them on the phone, please share their number here

do they allow tourists to experience pottery making?

Yes, they definitely do :)

who wrote this story article po?

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One of the oldest towns in the Philippines, Vigan is a Spanish Colonial fairy tale of dark-wood mansions, cobblestone streets and clattering kalesa (horse-drawn carriages). In fact, it is the finest surviving example of a Spanish Colonial town in Asia and a Unesco World Heritage site. But outside of well-restored Crisologo St (closed to vehicular traffic) and a few surrounding blocks, it’s also a noisy Filipino town like many others. In the places where history feels alive, you can smell the aroma of freshly baked empanadas wafting past antique shops, explore pottery collectives and watch sunlight flicker off capiz-shell windows.

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La Nuestra Señora de La Asuncion Parish Church

A Unesco World Heritage Site 38km south of Vigan, this massive baroque structure built in 1769 is unique. It has an imposing brick facade and sits alone…

St Paul Cathedral

This church was built in ‘earthquake baroque’ style (ie thick-walled and massive) after an earlier incarnation was damaged by quakes in 1619 and 1627. The…

Padre José Burgos National Museum

Built in 1788, this museum is in the ancestral home of Father José Burgos, one of the three martyr priests executed by the Spanish in 1872. It houses an…

Magsingal Museum

This branch of Vigan's Padre José Burgos National Museum, located 11km north of Vigan in Magsingal, displays an absorbing collection of Ilocano relics. An…

Juan Luna Shrine

It's worth stopping in Badoc, halfway between Vigan and Laoag (about an hour by bus), for a peek inside the restored ancestral home of Juan Luna, arguably…

Magic Fountain

Every night at 7.30pm during peak tourist season, the fountain in the middle of Plaza Salcedo bursts into a music and light show. It gets crowded and is…

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Visiting the public market in Ilocos Norte

by Noel | | Travel Photography , Amazing food experience , Markets and street food , Philippines | 8 comments

Exploring the Flavors of Vigan: A Gastronomic Journey at Vigan City’s Public Market (updated 2023)

I love visiting local markets whenever I go to a new destination. Visiting a public market heightens all my senses with visual imagery that is fun to explore, impactful and filled with photo opportunities. Visiting the public market in Ilocos Norte at Vigan is raw and alive with daily shopping rituals and visiting friends. You can to see and even taste local snacks, foods and delicious in season tropical fruits and vegetable or even souvenir shop for locally made crafts and artwork.

Located in the heart of this historic city, the Vigan Public Market offers a delightful exploration of flavors, aromas, and cultural heritage. A huge complex in a two story structure there’s a lot to see exploring around the market place. As you wander through its bustling aisles, you’ll encounter an abundance of fresh produce, local delicacies, and traditional crafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, engage with friendly vendors, and indulge your senses in a gastronomic journey like no other. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of Vigan’s Public Market, where the vibrant food culture and the city’s timeless charm come together in perfect harmony.

Where is the Vigan Public Market located

The Vigan Public Market is located in Vigan City, which is in the Ilocos Sur province of the Philippines. It’s a bustling market known for its traditional Filipino products, local delicacies, and a wide range of goods.

Why visit the Vigan Public Market?

Visiting the Vigan Public Market offers a captivating experience filled with cultural richness and culinary delights. Here are compelling reasons to explore this vibrant market:

1. **Cultural Heritage:** Vigan City is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The market reflects this heritage with its traditional Filipino atmosphere, making it an integral part of Vigan’s historic charm.

2. **Local Products:** The market is a treasure trove of local goods, including handwoven textiles, pottery, handicrafts, and traditional clothing. It’s an excellent place to purchase unique souvenirs and gifts.

3. **Authentic Cuisine:** Vigan is renowned for its distinctive culinary offerings, such as Vigan longganisa (sausage), bagnet (crispy pork belly), and empanada. The market is a food lover’s paradise where you can savor these delicious specialties.

4. **Street Food Delights:** Explore the market’s alleys to discover a variety of street food vendors offering tasty and affordable treats. Don’t miss trying the famous Vigan empanada, a crispy pastry filled with local ingredients.

5. **Local Interaction:** Engage with the friendly locals who operate the stalls and shops. They can provide insights into Vigan’s culture, history, and traditions, creating a more enriching experience.

6. **Historic Ambiance:** The market’s surroundings evoke a sense of nostalgia, taking you back in time to the colonial era. It’s an excellent place to appreciate the architectural heritage of the Philippines.

7. **Photographic Opportunities:** The colorful stalls, bustling atmosphere, and intricate details make Vigan Public Market a photographer’s dream. Capture the essence of Filipino life and culture here.

8. **Convenience:** If you’re staying in Vigan City, the market is a central hub where you can find essentials, groceries, and local products all in one place.

Visiting the Vigan Public Market allows you to immerse yourself in the cultural and culinary traditions of Vigan, offering a delightful and authentic taste of Filipino heritage.

Let’s tour the Vigan public market in Ilocos Sud

Busy public marketplace at vigan city.

Surprisingly the people and vendors at Vigan public market are not shy and also love to ham it up when they see you taking photos of them. The concrete buildings are gigantic with two covered buildings that provide shade and protection from outdoor elements. The market space is not pretty with a flotilla of little tricycles parked out in the parking lots with drivers soliciting for rides around the city.  It’s utilitarian, but still colorful in some spots and fun walking around the different sections that cater to the type of foods and produce being sold.  Here’s how it looks around the marketplace perimeter.

Vigan market’s colorful produce section

Keeping cool at the Vigan market

Cheap and tasty pineapples for sale at Vigan market

Vigan market’s delicious, prepared foods and snacks

Filipinos love to snack or get a quick bite while shopping the markets here and there’s plenty of food vendors to choose from. If you have a sweet tooth, then there are lots of pastries, baked goods and other sweet goodies to tempt you to try something different and exotic in flavors. Check out some of these local favorites below and you might want to explore the upstairs food area of the market to try some of these delicious foods for sale.

Popular take out foods like the pancit noodle dishes below for under a dollar

Tasting the fried empanada specialties from Vigan

The tasty local Bagnet – crispy pork belly is delicious with a spicy vinegar dressing

 What are the specialty and take out foods at the Vigan Market

The Vigan Public Market is a culinary haven, offering a variety of specialty and take-out foods that showcase the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine. Here are some must-try specialties and take-out options:

Vigan Empanada:

This is the iconic dish of Vigan. It’s a crispy pastry filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and grated green papaya. Don’t forget to dip it in sukang Iloko, a local vinegar.

Vigan Longganisa:

These savory sausages are a local delicacy known for their garlicky flavor. They make for a delicious breakfast or addition to any meal.

Bagnet is crispy, deep-fried pork belly, similar to lechon kawali. It’s incredibly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, often served with a side of dipping sauce.

Okoy are deep-fried shrimp or vegetable fritters. They’re crispy, flavorful, and often served as a snack or appetizer.

This is a Vigan specialty soup made from beef innards, often enjoyed as a hearty and flavorful dish.

Chichacorn:

These are corn kernels that have been deep-fried and seasoned, creating a crunchy and savory snack. They come in various flavors, including garlic, cheese, and barbecue.

Local Delicacies:

Look for stalls selling native kakanin (rice cakes) like bibingka, puto, and sapin-sapin. These sweet treats are perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings.

Fresh Fruits:

Depending on the season, you can find a wide selection of fresh tropical fruits, such as mangoes, bananas, and pineapples.

Local Drinks:

Try the refreshing sugarcane juice or coconut water served straight from coconuts, perfect for quenching your thirst.

Take-Out Meals:

Many stalls offer pre-packed meals and snacks that you can take with you. These may include adobo (a savory stew), pancit (noodles), and lumpia (spring rolls).

Exploring the Vigan Public Market’s culinary offerings is a delightful journey into the flavors of the Philippines. Don’t hesitate to sample these specialties and take some with you as souvenirs or for a tasty snack on the go.

Checking out the gritty sections of the Vigan market

The butcher, seafood and other meat market section of the Vigan market is lively, raw and absolutely in your face.  Displayed recently butchered meats range in easy to see food displays to fresh cuts hanging in an unappealing fashion on simple hooks. The good thing is that the market is well covered and the sections look very clean and well maintained – with vendors smiling or trying to tempt you to check out their merchandise. Here are some highlights  visiting this section of the marketplace.

Looking to buy some dried fish?

Raw meat next to take out pork belly for sale

Vigan arts and local crafts

The sections below the market carries cheap sundry items, clothing stands and a section featuring local crafts and souvenirs that you can find and even bargain for inexpensive gifts. Offering a variety of handmade items including: hand woven linens, wood carvings, jewelry,  ceramics and T shirts, you’ll find the best deals here compared to the tourist areas of Vigan city. It’s nice that the vendors are nice and not to pushy about selling their wares here, so don’t feel obligated to compare merchandise and prices from one stall to the next.

More details and tips visiting the Vigan market

Vigan market hours are early mornings to 7:30 pm and located at Alcantara Street

The market is located next to the bus station away from the historic district, it’s easy enough to catch a cab or tricycle to the market.

Tricycles from the historic district should be around 20 Pesos or under 50 cents.

The upstairs sections sell the perishable goods, take out foods, baked goods and snacks and the meat/seafood vendors. Downstairs sections sell sundry items, clothing and household goods and a nice section of local arts and crafts.

Must try local foods include: Bagnet (fried pork belly), longganisa (local Vigan sausage), empanada or other fried specialties, pinakbet -(vegetable stew in a shrimp paste), Vigan Miki (savory chicken noodle soup)

How to get to the Vigan City Public Marketplace

Here’s a quick guide on how to reach this bustling marketplace:

• By Foot: If you’re already in the city center, the Public Marketplace is easily accessible by foot. Simply navigate towards the main streets of Vigan and head towards the bustling area where the marketplace is located. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions, and you’ll find yourself amidst the vibrant market in no time.
• By Tricycle: Tricycles are a popular mode of transportation in Vigan. They are readily available throughout the city, and you can easily hire one to take you to the Public Marketplace. Inform the tricycle driver of your destination, and they will take you directly to the marketplace entrance.
• By Jeepney: Vigan City is also serviced by jeepneys, which are a common mode of public transportation in the Philippines. Look for jeepneys with routes that pass through or near the Public Marketplace. Inform the driver or conductor that you want to alight at the marketplace, and they will help guide you to the appropriate stop.

Check out these posts on visiting Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sud

Must visit Vigan city attractions

3 days visiting Ilocos Norte

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Have you explored the public markets of Vigan City?

Any favorite foods or souvenirs to take home with you from your visit there? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Conclusion to visiting the Vigan Public Market

Visiting the Vigan Public Market is an experience that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. As you conclude your exploration of this bustling marketplace, you’ll carry with you not just bags of local delicacies and unique souvenirs but also cherished memories of the vibrant atmosphere, the warm interactions with vendors, and the authentic flavors that define Vigan’s culinary heritage.  Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a culture lover, or a curious traveler, the Vigan Public Market promises an unforgettable journey of discovery and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of this historic city.

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I like visiting local markets whenever I travel. I think you can learn a lot about the local culture from these markets. Your photo of the tropical fruit vendor is great.

Yes, I love to do the same just for that and really absorb day to day life like here in the Vigan market

Your photos brought me right into the scene. I could almost smell the fruit and fish. I love markets; talking with people and making a few purchases. Excellent post!

The public market in Ilocos Norte is colorful and fun to photograph from what you can see.

These images remind me of the market stalls at home in Nigeria. I love it. I was fascinated by the picture with the leaf wrapped food. For some reason l thought we were the only ones who cooked with those. Thanks for these beautiful images.

Cooking with banana leaf is very common especially for steaming or on an open fire, I also love visiting public markets and this one in Ilocos Norte is fantastic.

Vigan market looks like a great place to discover Filipino foods. But you can keep the chicken feet!

I’m sure you will find some great sweets to try at the Public market here in Vigan Doreen.

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Hi, I'm Noel, a writer and photographer based in San Francisco and Hawaii. I write about delicious food and wine indulgences, thoughtful luxury, and adventure travel. I share camera tips and techniques while exploring new and unusual places around the world. My site explores culture and history, art and architecture, world heritage sites, exotic locals, along with nature tours and natural landscapes worldwide. Quite a mixed bag of curiosities and quirky interests, just like myself.

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17+ BEST VIGAN Tourist Spots + Things to Do

Vigan City is a charming city that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. You can walk across cobblestone streets, surrounded by ancestral houses during the 16th-century Spanish-colonial period, or take a kalesa ride across town. It is also one of the six Unesco World Heritage Sites in the Philippines and also one of the New7Wonders Cities . This city in Ilocos Sur receives hundred thousands of visitors annually, some here for overnight experiences while others are on a day trip from exploring the nearby Pagudpud and Laoag areas.

The most popular attraction in Vigan City is Calle Crisologo, but stay longer and you’ll discover the rest of the wonders of Vigan. Here we’ve compiled the best Vigan tourist spots and things you can do in this heritage city.

Note : As of May 2023, a few of these Vigan City tourist spots are still under re-construction due to damages from a strong earthquake the year prior, including Vigan Cathedral and Bantay Church Bell Tower. Arce Museum, Syquia Museum, and Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone are also temporarily closed. Please check their respective pages for updated information.

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1. Calle Crisologo

2. vigan cathedral, 3. bantay church bell tower, 4. vigan city museum, 5. ilocos museum regional complex, 6. plaza burgos, 7. eat ilocos empanada, 8. pottery making, 9. visit other house museums, 10. visit a bagnet farm, 11. witness the art of traditional weaving, 12. buy inabel products, 13. riverside dining at pinakbet farm, 14. shop at the public market, 15. enjoy a beach day at sta. catalina, 16. ilocos sur adventure zone, 17. baluarte resort and mini zoo, 18. attend the viva vigan binatbatan festival of the arts, how to get from manila to vigan, where to stay in vigan, what to read next:.

Of the numerous Vigan tourist spots, Calle Crisologo is perhaps the most popular. This heritage street spans half a kilometer and features a cobblestone street and ancestral houses. The Spanish-era ancestral houses feature traditional architecture, including multiple doors at the ground floor and large open layout on the top floors.

During day time, Calle Crisology turns into a busy tourist area with souvenir shops, food carts, and various restaurants. Here you can buy different pasalubong such as woven bags and wallets, inabel cloths, and food — such as vigan longganisa, bagnet, and other local delicacies.

The best time to visit Calle Crisologo is during weekdays, when there are fewer tourists around. You can take your time taking photos in its streets and corners. Stay up late until 11PM to capture the beautiful night lights. Some photography experts prefer the hours before dawn, when it is still dark but the sunlight is slowly seeping through the sky.

Book your own Vigan private tour via Klook .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Czedric Sanchez (@iczedso)

Just a short walk from Calle Crisologo is the Vigan Cathedral. Also known as St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, this beautiful heritage church is a prominent landmark in Vigan City and a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vigan City.

It was originally built in 1574 as a small chapel, which was then remodeled into a new structure in 1790. It features Baroque architecture with influences of Chinese craftsmanship, as evidenced by the fu dogs or lion in its outermost doors.

You can visit the church to see its impressive façade, attend a mass, or appreciate its rich cultural and architectural history.

Also known as Bantay Campanario , the Bantay Church Bell Tower is one of the most important landmarks in Ilocos Sur. Built in the 1590s, the bell tower stands at 33 meters tall and was constructed using bricks and lime. It stands on top of a hill and served as a lookout post for the towns of Bantay and Vigan and also functioned as a belfry for the adjacent St. Augustine Church. Due to its location, it also has panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Guests at the Bantay Bell Church Tower can climb it to see the view and learn about the tower’s historic and significance in the region.

Note : As of 2023, entering and climbing the tower is not allowed due to the damages from the recent earthquake. However, guests can still visit the area and take photos of the tower from outside.

One of the most recently opened Vigan tourist spots is the Vigan City Museum located at the Vigan Conservation Complex. It is the first interactive learning museum in the city, showcasing the tradition, culture, and architecture of the city.

Here you can find religious displays, important historical figures, original designs of the ancestral houses during the Spanish colonial period, and local artwork. Its interactive sections include a cubicle where you can sing-along with a hymn, a platform where you can design your own ancestral house, and more.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lex Velasco (@alexndrjson)

Vigan is all about history, and what better place to get to know this city better than the Ilocos Museum Regional Complex? This museum complex is home to the family house of Padre Burgos — one of the GomBurZa martyr priests — and the late president Elpidio Quirino.

This Vigan tourist spot is managed by the National Museum of the Philippines and so the entrance is free for everyone.

Plaza Burgos is one of the three open plazas in the main tourist area in Vigan City. This plaza is named after Padre Burgos of GomBurZa. Here you can take a walk, stop in the eateries for a plate of okoy or ilocos empanada, and walk to the nearby Vigan Church and the Dancing Fountain of Vigan in Plaza Salcedo which operates at night.

One of the best things to do in Vigan City especially for first-time visitors is eating ilocos empanada!

Ilocos empanada originated from Vigan — it’s a deep-fried pastry filled with a mixture of grated unripe papaya, bean sprouts, ground meat, and egg, all wrapped in a bright orange-colored dough made from rice flour. It is served with vinegar dip.

Ilocos empanada is served in different eateries and restaurants in Vigan City. We visited the eateries in Plaza Burgos where an old lady allowed us to take photos of her making ilocos empanada from scratch. But the best empanada I’ve tried is in Irene’s Vigan Empanada (located along Salcedo St.). This modest eatery serves traditional ilocos empanada as well as other variants (crab, chicken, tuna, etc.) and add-ons. I recommend ilocos empanada with cheese. It is so good!

Another fun activity that you can do in Vigan is pottery making.

Pagburnayan (or pottery making) is a traditional industry in Vigan. The word “pagburnayan” comes from the Ilocano term “ burnay ,” which means “earthenware jar.” The pottery-making process in Pagburnayan is a unique and labor-intensive craft that has been passed down from generation to generation for hundreds of years.

In pagburnayan, potters use a foot-powered potter’s wheel to shape clay into various forms, such as jars, vases, and plates. The clay used in the pottery-making process is sourced from nearby rivers. It is shaped and then fired in a traditional wood-fired kiln to harden. Pagburnayan jars are particularly renowned for their beautiful earthy appearance, durability, and resistance to cracking.

There are two pagburnayan jar factories that you can visit in Vigan: RG Jar Factory and Ruby Factory . We visited RG Jar Factory and then the staff showed us the traditional kilns, the pottery machines, and the finished products. We even tried hands-on pottery making!

I love molding clays and so it is one of my favorite things to do in Vigan City. The other one that I’ve tried is in Zambales: the difference between the two is the pottery in Zambales actually teaches you how to shape and mold the clay, while in RG Jar Factory you can tell the guide what you want to make and they will be the one to mold the clay for you.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shylla Fe Daypuyat (@shyllashy)

Aside from the Ilocos Museum Regional Complex, there are other museums you can visit in Vigan City. Three must-see mansion-turned-museums include the Arce Museum, Syquia Mansion, and Crisologo Museum.

Arce Museum is offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Fans of Maria Clara and Ibarra will rejoice, since this museum allows you to dress up in traditional attire and even attend a dinner with servers garbed in uniform for an immersive experience. Meanwhile, Syquia Museum is an ancestral house owned by the late president Quirino and his wife, and Crisologo Museum is a house owned by the late congressman Floro Crisologo, who was assassinated while attending mass at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Off the usual Vigan tour itinerary, did you know that you can visit a bagnet farm in Vigan City? We visited the bagnet farm in San Julian, just several minutes away from the town proper. Here they prepare chunks of pork, boil them for 3 hours and then fry them for at least 3 times — producing the crispy skin that bagnet is known for. Of course, we didn’t miss this opportunity to eat freshly cooked bagnet!

These fried bagnets are made and sold by JKLC’s Vigan, a store owned by Cecil Chan and her husband. It is located at the town proper just beside Hotel Felicidad.

Experience cultural immersion in your Vigan tour by witnessing the art of traditional weaving. This practice is done in different areas in the Ilocos Region.

The weaving process involves using a handloom to create intricate patterns and designs on various fabrics, like cotton and abel or inabel (which is an Ilocano term for “to weave” or “woven”). The threads used are often dyed with natural materials, such as leaves, barks, and roots, to achieve vibrant colors.

There are a few handloom weaving centers that you can visit in Vigan City. We visited Cristy’s Loomweaving , where you can see local weavers at work and buy finished inabel products, including towels, blankets, pillowcases, placemats, bags, wallets, and more.

Inabel woven products are one of the best souvenirs from Vigan City. These include handbags, towels, blankets, pillowcases, placemats, and even clothes.

You can buy inabel products at souvenir shops along Calle Crisologo. For premium-quality inabel items, I recommend visiting Tienda Verda along De Los Reyes St. and Tela de Bonita , which is sold at the reception area in Hotel Felicidad.

One of the best eats you can find is located several minutes away from Vigan City proper — Pinakbet Farm. This alfresco restaurant is located beside a river and a farm where they source most of their ingredients.

Enjoy pinakbet, bagnet, and grilled chicken and fresh tilapia — all served with KBL (kamatis, bagoong, and lasona). This restaurant also hosts a local dance and musical performance to serenade its customers while eating.

I highly enjoyed eating kamayan-style at this restaurant and recommend it to you as well!

Although not a usual tourist destination, the Vigan public market is an interesting place to visit and buy pasalubongs from. The market is located about 20 minutes by foot from the town proper; you can also ride a tricycle for easy transport.

At the public market, you can eat traditional Ilocano dishes, buy local vegetables and fruits such as kamias, bottles of vinegar and bagoong, and — of course who would miss the vigan longganisa and bagnet?

Sta. Catalina Beach is one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Vigan City. It’s located several minutes away from the town proper and features a long shoreline with fine, gray sand.

This beach is frequented by locals during weekends, so if you want to go for a quiet beach trip, schedule your trip on a weekday. There is also a resort here if you wish to stay overnight.

Located within Vigan City, Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone is an outdoor adventure park offering a variety of activities ideal for adrenaline-seekers, nature lovers, and families looking for a fun day out.

These include a giant swing, kayaking, wall climbing, rappelling across the river, and rock climbing at the rocky landscape of the Banaoang mountains. You can also appreciate the view of the old and new bridges built across the tranquil Abra River.

Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo is a 100-hectare property of rolling plains and hills, famously owned by former governor Chavit Singson. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in Vigan City, with families visiting animals in the zoo and exploring the museum inside.

Though the Baluerte is one of the landmark Vigan City tourist spots, it is one that I personally do not recommend. Baluarte is known for keeping exotic animals and one of the activities here is taking pictures with a tiger. Across Southeast Asia, taking selfies with big cats is considered unethical because oftentimes the tigers undergo harsh regimen and are sedated to remain docile. In fact, even the dating app Tinder has banned profile photos with tiger selfies, in concern for animal rights.

Moreover, while the museum in Baluarte features impressive display, there are merely there as trophies. Unlike other museums, it does not seem to promote wildlife care and preservation.

The Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts is a cultural and religious festival in Vigan, held every first week of May. It celebrates the religious feast day (Feast of Apo Sto. Cristo Milagroso), traditional inabel weaving, and the life of the first Filipino leader, Isabelo de los Reyes.

This festival holds different exhibitions and activities, including the “Abel Iloko Fashion Show,” “Kalesa Parade,” “Bagnet Festival,” and the highlight of every festival in the country — a streetdancing competition.

This event is a must-visit for anyone interested in joining festivities and learning about the region’s cultural heritage. Since the festival takes several days, I recommend booking your hotel in advance and looking at the festival itinerary so you can schedule your visit depending on what activity you want to witness.

Here are the commuting details from Manila to Vigan:

• Option 1 : Take a bus from Pasay or Cubao to Vigan . Travel is around 8-9 hours.
• Option 2 : There are no airports at Vigan City. The closest airport is Laoag International Airport in Laoag City. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly from Manila to Laoag in selected days. From the airport, ride a bus to Vigan City. Travel time for the bus ride is around 2 hours.

There are several ancestral hotels in Vigan City. Here are some of the best Vigan hotels:

• Hotel Felicidad . A charming hotel located just a short walk away from Calle Crisologo. Read our review .
• Hotel Luna . The first museum hotel in the Philippines, featuring beautiful rooms, a gallery with original artworks from local artists including Juan Luna, and a pool. Read our review .

Has this article about the best Vigan tourist spots been helpful to you? If you have other recommended things to do in Vigan, let us know in the comments section below!

Visiting the Ilocos Region? Read the rest of our articles!

• Best Ilocos Norte Tourist Spots
• Best Ilocos Sur Tourist Spots
• Best Vigan Tourist Spots + Things to Do
• Paoay Sand Dunes
• Burgos Wind Farm

See our hotel reviews:

• Hotel Felicidad (Vigan City)
• Hotel Luna (Vigan City )

Get discounts on your travels!

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHERE

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

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How to Create an Engaging Photo Essay (with Examples)

Photo essays tell a story in pictures. They're a great way to improve at photography and story-telling skills at once. Learn how to do create a great one.

Learn | Photography Guides | By Ana Mireles

Photography is a medium used to tell stories – sometimes they are told in one picture, sometimes you need a whole series. Those series can be photo essays.

If you’ve never done a photo essay before, or you’re simply struggling to find your next project, this article will be of help. I’ll be showing you what a photo essay is and how to go about doing one.

You’ll also find plenty of photo essay ideas and some famous photo essay examples from recent times that will serve you as inspiration.

If you’re ready to get started, let’s jump right in!

Table of Contents

What is a Photo Essay?

A photo essay is a series of images that share an overarching theme as well as a visual and technical coherence to tell a story. Some people refer to a photo essay as a photo series or a photo story – this often happens in photography competitions.

Photographic history is full of famous photo essays. Think about The Great Depression by Dorothea Lange, Like Brother Like Sister by Wolfgang Tillmans, Gandhi’s funeral by Henri Cartier Bresson, amongst others.

What are the types of photo essay?

Despite popular belief, the type of photo essay doesn’t depend on the type of photography that you do – in other words, journalism, documentary, fine art, or any other photographic genre is not a type of photo essay.

Instead, there are two main types of photo essays: narrative and thematic .

As you have probably already guessed, the thematic one presents images pulled together by a topic – for example, global warming. The images can be about animals and nature as well as natural disasters devastating cities. They can happen all over the world or in the same location, and they can be captured in different moments in time – there’s a lot of flexibility.

A narrative photo essa y, on the other hand, tells the story of a character (human or not), portraying a place or an event. For example, a narrative photo essay on coffee would document the process from the planting and harvesting – to the roasting and grinding until it reaches your morning cup.

What are some of the key elements of a photo essay?

• Tell a unique story – A unique story doesn’t mean that you have to photograph something that nobody has done before – that would be almost impossible! It means that you should consider what you’re bringing to the table on a particular topic.
• Put yourself into the work – One of the best ways to make a compelling photo essay is by adding your point of view, which can only be done with your life experiences and the way you see the world.
• Add depth to the concept – The best photo essays are the ones that go past the obvious and dig deeper in the story, going behind the scenes, or examining a day in the life of the subject matter – that’s what pulls in the spectator.
• Nail the technique – Even if the concept and the story are the most important part of a photo essay, it won’t have the same success if it’s poorly executed.
• Build a structure – A photo essay is about telling a thought-provoking story – so, think about it in a narrative way. Which images are going to introduce the topic? Which ones represent a climax? How is it going to end – how do you want the viewer to feel after seeing your photo series?
• Make strong choices – If you really want to convey an emotion and a unique point of view, you’re going to need to make some hard decisions. Which light are you using? Which lens? How many images will there be in the series? etc., and most importantly for a great photo essay is the why behind those choices.

9 Tips for Creating a Photo Essay

Credit: Laura James

1. Choose something you know

To make a good photo essay, you don’t need to travel to an exotic location or document a civil war – I mean, it’s great if you can, but you can start close to home.

Depending on the type of photography you do and the topic you’re looking for in your photographic essay, you can photograph a local event or visit an abandoned building outside your town.

It will be much easier for you to find a unique perspective and tell a better story if you’re already familiar with the subject. Also, consider that you might have to return a few times to the same location to get all the photos you need.

2. Follow your passion

Most photo essays take dedication and passion. If you choose a subject that might be easy, but you’re not really into it – the results won’t be as exciting. Taking photos will always be easier and more fun if you’re covering something you’re passionate about.

3. Take your time

A great photo essay is not done in a few hours. You need to put in the time to research it, conceptualizing it, editing, etc. That’s why I previously recommended following your passion because it takes a lot of dedication, and if you’re not passionate about it – it’s difficult to push through.

4. Write a summary or statement

Photo essays are always accompanied by some text. You can do this in the form of an introduction, write captions for each photo or write it as a conclusion. That’s up to you and how you want to present the work.

5. Learn from the masters

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Making a photographic essay takes a lot of practice and knowledge. A great way to become a better photographer and improve your storytelling skills is by studying the work of others. You can go to art shows, review books and magazines and look at the winners in photo contests – most of the time, there’s a category for photo series.

6. Get a wide variety of photos

Think about a story – a literary one. It usually tells you where the story is happening, who is the main character, and it gives you a few details to make you engage with it, right?

The same thing happens with a visual story in a photo essay – you can do some wide-angle shots to establish the scenes and some close-ups to show the details. Make a shot list to ensure you cover all the different angles.

Some of your pictures should guide the viewer in, while others are more climatic and regard the experience they are taking out of your photos.

7. Follow a consistent look

Both in style and aesthetics, all the images in your series need to be coherent. You can achieve this in different ways, from the choice of lighting, the mood, the post-processing, etc.

8. Be self-critical

Once you have all the photos, make sure you edit them with a good dose of self-criticism. Not all the pictures that you took belong in the photo essay. Choose only the best ones and make sure they tell the full story.

9. Ask for constructive feedback

Often, when we’re working on a photo essay project for a long time, everything makes perfect sense in our heads. However, someone outside the project might not be getting the idea. It’s important that you get honest and constructive criticism to improve your photography.

How to Create a Photo Essay in 5 Steps

Credit: Quang Nguyen Vinh

1. Choose your topic

This is the first step that you need to take to decide if your photo essay is going to be narrative or thematic. Then, choose what is it going to be about?

Ideally, it should be something that you’re interested in, that you have something to say about it, and it can connect with other people.

2. Research your topic

To tell a good story about something, you need to be familiar with that something. This is especially true when you want to go deeper and make a compelling photo essay. Day in the life photo essays are a popular choice, since often, these can be performed with friends and family, whom you already should know well.

3. Plan your photoshoot

Depending on what you’re photographing, this step can be very different from one project to the next. For a fine art project, you might need to find a location, props, models, a shot list, etc., while a documentary photo essay is about planning the best time to do the photos, what gear to bring with you, finding a local guide, etc.

Every photo essay will need different planning, so before taking pictures, put in the required time to get things right.

4. Experiment

It’s one thing to plan your photo shoot and having a shot list that you have to get, or else the photo essay won’t be complete. It’s another thing to miss out on some amazing photo opportunities that you couldn’t foresee.

So, be prepared but also stay open-minded and experiment with different settings, different perspectives, etc.

5. Make a final selection

Editing your work can be one of the hardest parts of doing a photo essay. Sometimes we can be overly critical, and others, we get attached to bad photos because we put a lot of effort into them or we had a great time doing them.

Try to be as objective as possible, don’t be afraid to ask for opinions and make various revisions before settling down on a final cut.

7 Photo Essay Topics, Ideas & Examples

Credit: Michelle Leman

• Architectural photo essay

Using architecture as your main subject, there are tons of photo essay ideas that you can do. For some inspiration, you can check out the work of Francisco Marin – who was trained as an architect and then turned to photography to “explore a different way to perceive things”.

You can also lookup Luisa Lambri. Amongst her series, you’ll find many photo essay examples in which architecture is the subject she uses to explore the relationship between photography and space.

• Process and transformation photo essay

This is one of the best photo essay topics for beginners because the story tells itself. Pick something that has a beginning and an end, for example, pregnancy, the metamorphosis of a butterfly, the life-cycle of a plant, etc.

Keep in mind that these topics are linear and give you an easy way into the narrative flow – however, it might be difficult to find an interesting perspective and a unique point of view.

• A day in the life of ‘X’ photo essay

There are tons of interesting photo essay ideas in this category – you can follow around a celebrity, a worker, your child, etc. You don’t even have to do it about a human subject – think about doing a photo essay about a day in the life of a racing horse, for example – find something that’s interesting for you.

• Time passing by photo essay

It can be a natural site or a landmark photo essay – whatever is close to you will work best as you’ll need to come back multiple times to capture time passing by. For example, how this place changes throughout the seasons or maybe even over the years.

A fun option if you live with family is to document a birthday party each year, seeing how the subject changes over time. This can be combined with a transformation essay or sorts, documenting the changes in interpersonal relationships over time.

• Travel photo essay

Do you want to make the jump from tourist snapshots into a travel photo essay? Research the place you’re going to be travelling to. Then, choose a topic.

If you’re having trouble with how to do this, check out any travel magazine – National Geographic, for example. They won’t do a generic article about Texas – they do an article about the beach life on the Texas Gulf Coast and another one about the diverse flavors of Texas.

The more specific you get, the deeper you can go with the story.

• Socio-political issues photo essay

This is one of the most popular photo essay examples – it falls under the category of photojournalism or documental photography. They are usually thematic, although it’s also possible to do a narrative one.

Depending on your topic of interest, you can choose topics that involve nature – for example, document the effects of global warming. Another idea is to photograph protests or make an education photo essay.

It doesn’t have to be a big global issue; you can choose something specific to your community – are there too many stray dogs? Make a photo essay about a local animal shelter. The topics are endless.

• Behind the scenes photo essay

A behind-the-scenes always make for a good photo story – people are curious to know what happens and how everything comes together before a show.

Depending on your own interests, this can be a photo essay about a fashion show, a theatre play, a concert, and so on. You’ll probably need to get some permissions, though, not only to shoot but also to showcase or publish those images.

4 Best Photo Essays in Recent times

Now that you know all the techniques about it, it might be helpful to look at some photo essay examples to see how you can put the concept into practice. Here are some famous photo essays from recent times to give you some inspiration.

Habibi by Antonio Faccilongo

This photo essay wan the World Press Photo Story of the Year in 2021. Faccilongo explores a very big conflict from a very specific and intimate point of view – how the Israeli-Palestinian war affects the families.

He chose to use a square format because it allows him to give order to things and eliminate unnecessary elements in his pictures.

With this long-term photo essay, he wanted to highlight the sense of absence and melancholy women and families feel towards their husbands away at war.

The project then became a book edited by Sarah Leen and the graphics of Ramon Pez.

Picture This: New Orleans by Mary Ellen Mark

The last assignment before her passing, Mary Ellen Mark travelled to New Orleans to register the city after a decade after Hurricane Katrina.

The images of the project “bring to life the rebirth and resilience of the people at the heart of this tale”, – says CNNMoney, commissioner of the work.

Each survivor of the hurricane has a story, and Mary Ellen Mark was there to record it. Some of them have heartbreaking stories about everything they had to leave behind.

Others have a story of hope – like Sam and Ben, two eight-year-olds born from frozen embryos kept in a hospital that lost power supply during the hurricane, yet they managed to survive.

Selfie by Cindy Sherman

Cindy Sherman is an American photographer whose work is mainly done through self-portraits. With them, she explores the concept of identity, gender stereotypes, as well as visual and cultural codes.

One of her latest photo essays was a collaboration with W Magazine entitled Selfie. In it, the author explores the concept of planned candid photos (‘plandid’).

The work was made for Instagram, as the platform is well known for the conflict between the ‘real self’ and the one people present online. Sherman started using Facetune, Perfect365 and YouCam to alter her appearance on selfies – in Photoshop, you can modify everything, but these apps were designed specifically to “make things prettier”- she says, and that’s what she wants to explore in this photo essay.

Tokyo Compression by Michael Wolf

Michael Wolf has an interest in the broad-gauge topic Life in Cities. From there, many photo essays have been derived – amongst them – Tokyo Compression .

He was horrified by the way people in Tokyo are forced to move to the suburbs because of the high prices of the city. Therefore, they are required to make long commutes facing 1,5 hours of train to start their 8+ hour workday followed by another 1,5 hours to get back home.

To portray this way of life, he photographed the people inside the train pressed against the windows looking exhausted, angry or simply absent due to this way of life.

You can visit his website to see other photo essays that revolve around the topic of life in megacities.

Final Words

It’s not easy to make photo essays, so don’t expect to be great at it right from your first project.

Start off small by choosing a specific subject that’s interesting to you –  that will come from an honest place, and it will be a great practice for some bigger projects along the line.

Whether you like to shoot still life or you’re a travel photographer, I hope these photo essay tips and photo essay examples can help you get started and grow in your photography.

Let us know which topics you are working on right now – we’ll love to hear from you!

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Ana Mireles is a Mexican researcher that specializes in photography and communications for the arts and culture sector.

Penelope G. To Ana Mireles Such a well written and helpful article for an writer who wants to inclue photo essay in her memoir. Thank you. I will get to work on this new skill. Penelope G.

Herman Krieger Photo essays in black and white

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What Solar Eclipse-Gazing Has Looked Like for the Past 2 Centuries

Millions of people on Monday will continue the tradition of experiencing and capturing solar eclipses, a pursuit that has spawned a lot of unusual gear.

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By Sarah Eckinger

• April 8, 2024 Updated 12:37 p.m. ET

For centuries, people have been clamoring to glimpse solar eclipses. From astronomers with custom-built photographic equipment to groups huddled together with special glasses, this spectacle has captivated the human imagination.

Creating a Permanent Record

In 1860, Warren de la Rue captured what many sources describe as the first photograph of a total solar eclipse . He took it in Rivabellosa, Spain, with an instrument known as the Kew Photoheliograph . This combination of a telescope and camera was specifically built to photograph the sun.

Forty years later, Nevil Maskelyne, a magician and an astronomy enthusiast, filmed a total solar eclipse in North Carolina. The footage was lost, however, and only released in 2019 after it was rediscovered in the Royal Astronomical Society’s archives.

Telescopic Vision

For scientists and astronomers, eclipses provide an opportunity not only to view the moon’s umbra and gaze at the sun’s corona, but also to make observations that further their studies. Many observatories, or friendly neighbors with a telescope, also make their instruments available to the public during eclipses.

Fredrik Hjalmar Johansen, Fridtjof Nansen and Sigurd Scott Hansen observing a solar eclipse while on a polar expedition in 1894 .

Women from Wellesley College in Massachusetts and their professor tested out equipment ahead of their eclipse trip (to “catch old Sol in the act,” as the original New York Times article phrased it) to New London, Conn., in 1922.

A group from Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania traveled to Yerbaniz, Mexico, in 1923, with telescopes and a 65-foot camera to observe the sun’s corona .

Dr. J.J. Nassau, director of the Warner and Swasey Observatory at Case School of Applied Science in Cleveland, prepared to head to Douglas Hill, Maine, to study an eclipse in 1932. An entire freight car was required to transport the institution’s equipment.

Visitors viewed a solar eclipse at an observatory in Berlin in the mid-1930s.

A family set up two telescopes in Bar Harbor, Maine, in 1963. The two children placed stones on the base to help steady them.

An astronomer examined equipment for an eclipse in a desert in Mauritania in June 1973. We credit the hot climate for his choice in outfit.

Indirect Light

If you see people on Monday sprinting to your local park clutching pieces of paper, or with a cardboard box of their head, they are probably planning to reflect or project images of the solar eclipse onto a surface.

Cynthia Goulakos demonstrated a safe way to view a solar eclipse , with two pieces of cardboard to create a reflection of the shadowed sun, in Lowell, Mass., in 1970.

Another popular option is to create a pinhole camera. This woman did so in Central Park in 1963 by using a paper cup with a small hole in the bottom and a twin-lens reflex camera.

Amateur astronomers viewed a partial eclipse, projected from a telescope onto a screen, from atop the Empire State Building in 1967 .

Back in Central Park, in 1970, Irving Schwartz and his wife reflected an eclipse onto a piece of paper by holding binoculars on the edge of a garbage basket.

Children in Denver in 1979 used cardboard viewing boxes and pieces of paper with small pinholes to view projections of a partial eclipse.

A crowd gathered around a basin of water dyed with dark ink, waiting for the reflection of a solar eclipse to appear, in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 1995.

Staring at the Sun (or, How Not to Burn Your Retinas)

Eclipse-gazers have used different methods to protect their eyes throughout the years, some safer than others .

In 1927, women gathered at a window in a building in London to watch a total eclipse through smoked glass. This was popularized in France in the 1700s , but fell out of favor when physicians began writing papers on children whose vision was damaged.

Another trend was to use a strip of exposed photographic film, as seen below in Sydney, Australia, in 1948 and in Turkana, Kenya, in 1963. This method, which was even suggested by The Times in 1979 , has since been declared unsafe.

Solar eclipse glasses are a popular and safe way to view the event ( if you use models compliant with international safety standards ). Over the years there have been various styles, including these large hand-held options found in West Palm Beach, Fla., in 1979.

Parents and children watched a partial eclipse through their eclipse glasses in Tokyo in 1981.

Slimmer, more colorful options were used in Nabusimake, Colombia, in 1998.

In France in 1999.

And in Iran and England in 1999.

And the best way to see the eclipse? With family and friends at a watch party, like this one in Isalo National Park in Madagascar in 2001.